You’re going about your daily routine, but suddenly, a wave of heat sweeps through your body. You feel flushed and uncomfortable, and all you want is relief. Sound familiar? Hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, and difficulty sleeping are just some of the common challenges many women face during and after menopause.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we understand the impact of postmenopausal symptoms and their toll on your overall well-being. That’s why we offer personalized hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help you navigate this stage of life with ease. By restoring hormonal balance, HRT can help alleviate the discomfort of menopause and improve your quality of life.

In this article, we’ll explore how HRT works, who it’s suitable for, the types of treatment available, and what you can expect from this therapy.

What is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment formulated to supplement the hormones your body no longer produces in sufficient amounts after menopause. During menopause, your levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone decline, leading to hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and a decrease in bone density. HRT aims to restore balance by providing these hormones through various delivery methods, reducing symptoms, and helping you feel more like yourself again.

How hormone replacement therapy works

HRT replaces the hormones your body naturally decreases after menopause.
Estrogen, the primary hormone used in HRT, can reduce hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. It can also preserve bone health, helping to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that makes bones fragile and more likely to break. Progesterone, often prescribed alongside estrogen, is used to protect the lining of your uterus if you haven’t had a hysterectomy.

Testosterone, though often overlooked, can also be part of HRT. It’s especially useful in addressing issues like low libido and fatigue, helping you regain energy and vitality. Depending on your symptoms and health status, your healthcare provider at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine may recommend a combination of these hormones to address your specific needs.

Are you a good candidate for HRT?

Before starting HRT, it’s important to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the treatment. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, this process begins with comprehensive blood work to assess your hormone levels and overall health. If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, or trouble sleeping, and these symptoms are affecting your daily life, you may benefit from HRT.

However, not everyone is a suitable candidate. Your healthcare provider will carefully review your medical history, including your risk factors for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, or breast cancer. Your family history is also taken into account. Women who have undergone a hysterectomy, for instance, may have different hormone needs. By working closely with your provider, you can receive personalized advice about whether HRT is right for you.

What does HRT treatment look like?

HRT is highly personalized and can take many forms, depending on your preferences and medical needs. Some common delivery methods include:

• Oral tablets: These hormone medications are taken daily and are one of the most common forms of HRT.
• Patches: These are applied to your skin and are typically changed once or twice a week, allowing hormones to be absorbed through the skin.
  
• Gels and creams: When applied topically, hormones can be absorbed through the skin. This method is often used for estrogen or testosterone therapy.
• Vaginal creams or rings: For women experiencing vaginal dryness or discomfort, hormone creams or rings can be inserted directly into the vagina for localized relief.
  
• Pellet therapy: Tiny hormone pellets, often containing estrogen or testosterone, are inserted under the skin and release hormones gradually over time, usually lasting three to four months.

The benefits of HRT

HRT offers a range of benefits for postmenopausal women, helping to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and protect against long-term health risks. The main benefits include:

• Symptom relief: HRT can effectively reduce hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, helping you feel more comfortable day to day.
  
• Improved bone health: Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Heart health: Some studies suggest that starting HRT early in menopause may help lower the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function.
• Better quality of life: Women who undergo HRT often report better sleep, improved mood, increased energy, and enhanced libido, making it easier to enjoy life after menopause.

How Genesis Lifestyle Medicine can help

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we believe every woman deserves to feel her best, regardless of her stage in life. Our approach to hormone replacement therapy ensures that your treatment is tailored to your unique needs, helping you navigate postmenopause with confidence and comfort. If you’re considering HRT or have any questions, schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life.