Got Hormone Replacement Therapy Questions? We have your answers!
Whether you're a woman who is considering
hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or simply curious about it and looking to learn, you've come to the right place! Hormone replacement therapy can be a complex and often very personal topic - Often the effects of hormone imbalances can result in some rather unpleasant side effects that we don't always want to talk about in public! But, we're here to educate you nonetheless, and hopefully this information helps you to decide for yourself if hormone replacement therapy could be a good fit for you and could help to resolve some of those not-so-pleasant symptoms!
Looking to learn more about some of the basics of hormone replacement therapy? Make sure you check out our website!
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge so that you can have meaningful discussions with your healthcare provider and make choices that meet your unique health needs and goals. So, whether you're seeking relief from menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances or looking to optimize your long-term health, we hope that some of these frequently asked questions will help you on your way! Unique Health is located right in Green Cove Springs, Florida and we are available in person to answer your questions regarding hormone replacement therapy. Feel free to swing by our office or give us a call to
schedule a consult!
What is the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are like the perfect piece to the puzzle — they fit right into your body’s hormone receptors because they’re identical to what your body naturally makes. They’re usually derived from plants and your body treats them as if they were its own.
Synthetic hormones, on the other hand, are like puzzle pieces that are just a tiny bit different in shape. They still fit, but they’re not an exact match to your body’s own hormones, which can sometimes lead to different effects.
So, the main difference? Bioidentical hormones are a closer match to what your body produces naturally, while synthetic hormones are a bit more like a close-but-not-exact replica. Both can be effective, but one is a slightly better fit than the other.
We personally love Biote's bioidentical hormones and use these in the pellet therapy that we offer! Learn more about Biote's bioidentical hormones here.
How long can I safely take hormone replacement therapy?
How long you can safely take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) really depends on your unique needs and how well it’s working for you. For many people, it’s safe to use HRT for several years, especially if it’s helping with symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or low energy.
Generally speaking, hormone replacement therapy should be given at the smallest dose possible for the shortest time possible. But if you’re feeling good on hormone replacement therapy and your doctor agrees, some people continue using it long term.
The key to knowing what is best for you? Keep checking in with your healthcare provider. They can help guide you based on your symptoms as to whether it's in your best interest to continue therapy or possibly look for other solutions to your symptoms. Every person is different and the solution to your hormone imbalance might not be one simple treatment.
Can hormone replacement therapy help prevent osteoporosis?
Yes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when started around the time of menopause. During menopause, estrogen, one of the hormones commonly used in hormone replacement therapy, naturally declines. Because of this, bones can become weaker and more prone to fractures.
By restoring estrogen levels, HRT can help slow down bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. However, it’s important to weigh the benefits against any potential risks with your healthcare provider to determine if HRT is the right choice for you, especially for bone health.
Does hormone replacement therapy increase the risk of breast cancer?
There can be a slightly increased risk of breast cancer with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly when it involves a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is a safer choice. This risk varies depending on factors like the type of hormones used, the duration of therapy, and your individual health history.
For women using combined HRT (estrogen and progesterone), studies have shown a slightly increased risk of breast cancer, especially with longer use. However, the risk tends to return to normal after stopping HRT. Estrogen-only HRT, often prescribed to women who have had a hysterectomy, carries a lower risk, but it's still important to discuss any potential risks with your healthcare provider.
Deciding whether to use HRT is a personal decision that should involve a thorough discussion of the benefits and risks with your doctor, considering your health history and specific needs.
Can hormone replacement therapy help with weight management?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could be the boost your body needs, but it's not a magic pill that we can take for weight loss. As we age, our hormones go through changes that can slow down our metabolism, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. By bringing those hormones back into balance, hormone replacement therapy can help rev up your metabolism, reduce fat storage, and support maintaining healthy muscle.
Another factor to keep in mind is that hormone replacement therapy works best when teamed up with healthy eating, regular exercise, and a balanced lifestyle. If this seems like something that could support your weight loss goals,
feel free to contact us through our website for a consultation - The best way to determine if hormone replacement therapy is a fit for you is to do a thorough consultation.
Can hormone replacement therapy help me sleep better?
YES. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can definitely play a role in improving sleep, especially if your sleep issues are related to hormonal changes. During menopause or andropause (men's version of menopause), fluctuations in hormones affect sleep quality, and can also cause disturbances such as insomnia or night sweats.
By balancing these hormones, hormone replacement therapy can help reduce these symptoms, making it much easier to get a good night's sleep.
It's also important to consider that hormones are not the only potential cause of symptoms such as insomnia or poor sleep quality. Adequate nutrition, exercise, a healthy lifestyle, and stress may be other factors that play a role in sleep health. Therefore, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to definitively determine if hormones are the culprit of your sleep issues, or if other factors may be playing a role.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue hormone replacement therapy is a highly personal one, and it's essential to have open and honest discussions with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your unique situation.
We hope these FAQ's help guide you on your journey to what is right for you!
Feel free to
call us
with any additional hormone replacement therapy questions you might have, or
send us a message through our website to schedule your consultation today!
