HRT Explained: What You Need to Know

There are instances wherein you may find an imbalance in your body, such as when you experience menopause or, for men, andropause. During these stages, your body may no longer produce the right amount of hormones necessary for you to function optimally. This is where HRT proves to be beneficial. This article tackles what you need to know about HRT and whether this is the right solution to address your changing body’s needs.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy? 

HRT can replace various types of hormones to restore balance in the body. With hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you can restore sufficient levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. HRT can even help replenish thyroid hormones as necessary. There are various reasons why people may need to undergo this replenishment process. For instance, women experiencing menopausal symptoms may opt for HRT to help manage their condition, alleviating them from hot flashes or night sweats. HRT can also be a viable solution for osteoporosis because the treatment can help maintain bone density. With this, they can minimize their risk of getting fractures.

For men going through andropause, HRT can also help alleviate their symptoms. Often, they may experience fatigue, mood changes, and decreased libido, which can all be managed through HRT. In some instances, HRT can also help manage the symptoms of cancer, inhibiting the growth of certain tumors. In parallel with breast cancer or prostate cancer treatments, HRT proves to be beneficial. Overall, people who want to increase their overall quality of life can turn to HRT to help manage their symptoms. While it is not considered to be a cure for any ailment, HRT is beneficial in numerous ways, allowing individuals to live their best life regardless of the changes in their bodies.

Forms of Hormone Replacement Therapy 

HRT can be administered in several ways, meaning you will have options. Consider factors such as the symptoms you want to address and when. This will help you decide which form of HRT to use. 

• Oral Medications: With oral medications, hormones are formulated in a pill form that you can ingest. If you want to go on with HRT conveniently, then taking oral medications is a viable option. However, many users report side effects associated with these pills. The impact of the therapy also varies from one person to another, particularly in terms of the pill absorption.

• Transdermal Patches: Another viable form to acquire HRT is through transdermal patches. With this form, hormones are delivered to your body through adhesive patches that you must leave on your skin over a specified period. In this case, your body directly absorbs the hormones and transfers them to your bloodstream at consistent levels. This process’s convenience and high absorbability make transdermal patches a popular option for many people.

• Injections: Some people opt to have the hormones injected into their bodies, and this is typically the case for testosterone replacement. While absorption may take longer with this form of administration, the effects of the therapy last longer with a sustained release of hormones into the bloodstream over time. 

• Implants: HRT can also be administered through implants wherein a medical professional will place hormone pellets under the skin through a minor surgical procedure. These pellets may contain estrogen or testosterone. With implants, daily administration is unnecessary since the effect of the procedure lasts an extended period.

• Topical Creams or Gels: Certain individuals prefer topical creams or gels to administer HRT. In this case, the hormones are absorbed locally and directly into the target area. This is a discreet and convenient way to get the hormones your body needs.

Risks and Benefits of HRT 

HRT has numerous benefits for various individuals experiencing different symptoms. For instance, it can help manage menopausal symptoms, alleviating women from vaginal dryness and mood swings. It can also help prevent and treat osteoporosis, which is especially apparent in post-menopausal women. Even studies suggest the effectiveness of HRT in reducing the risk of heart disease and improving cognitive functions. For men, HRT can help improve their mood and libido, particularly those going through andropause.

While there are many benefits, you should note that HRT, like any other treatment, poses risks. For instance, there are research studies that show that HRT can be a contributing factor in increasing the risk of breast cancer, particularly when the therapy extends to more than five years. Some women may also have a higher risk of uterine cancer if they are administered with HRT. Estrogen therapy, specifically, may also increase the risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs. Other minimal side effects of HRT may vary from one person to another, such as headaches or nausea.

Considerations Before Starting HRT

Before you start with HRT, there are several factors that you need to consider:

• Medical Evaluation and Consultation: One of the first things you must do before proceeding with HRT is consult a medical professional. They will be able to assess your condition and recommend whether HRT is the best course of treatment for your case or if some alternatives can help you manage your symptoms. Hence, schedule a consultation to gain insight into your options so you can make a guided decision.

• Lifestyle Factors: Another thing you must consider is the kind of lifestyle you lead because this may significantly impact the effectiveness of HRT. These factors include your diet, exercise, sleep habits, and tobacco or alcohol consumption. In this case, discuss these lifestyle factors with a medical practitioner for the best possible outcomes of HRT.

• Personal Preferences: Finally, you must consider your preferences and values before pursuing HRT. Discuss any reservations you may have with a healthcare professional and obtain informed consent indicating that you understand the risks and benefits of the therapy before proceeding.

HRT proves to be beneficial for many individuals lacking certain hormones that lead to imbalances in their bodies. Rest assured that there are many types of HRT, which means you will have several options if you consider this treatment. Consider certain factors to ensure this therapy suits your needs. You also need to be aware of this treatment’s risks and benefits. From there, you can make an informed decision that will help you live your life optimally.