Hormone therapy works to regulate the body’s systems and can reduce hot flashes, slow bone loss, and treat vaginal symptoms such as dryness and discomfort during intercourse. Hormone therapy may also lessen the effects of mild depressive disorder when triggered by waning estrogen levels. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, menopausal hormone therapy is often used as a short-term treatment until the body transitions. It is rarely prescribed to treat osteoporosis and other age-related diseases.
Who should not take MHT
Menopausal hormone therapy is not for women who may be pregnant or who plan to become pregnant. Marla Ahlgrimm asserts that those with bleeding disorders and women who have had breast and uterine cancer should not use hormone therapy. Additionally, women with heart and liver disease or blood clot disorders should speak to their doctor about alternative treatments.
Side effects of hormone therapy
While designed to treat the most common symptoms of menopause, Marla Ahlgrimm reports that hormone therapy may cause nausea, mood changes, headaches, breast swelling or tenderness, bloating, and unusual vaginal bleeding. Women undergoing a hormone treatment regimen should speak with their doctor if they are uncomfortable; medication may be adjusted and tailored to her unique and changing needs.
Marla Ahlgrimm notes that women who have undergone hysterectomy surgery may also be prescribed hormone therapy.
