Shared by Dr Love Mt Pleasant.
In menopause, levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) from Dr Love Mt Pleasant is an option used to replace these hormones and return them to their former levels. It can provide an array of benefits, including reducing signs of aging, helping to relieve menopausal symptoms, preventing osteoporosis, and improving mood as well as sexual health.
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Benefits of HRT
No one wants to pay the price of the mental and physical consequences of going through menopause without a backup plan.
Relieves menopausal and early menopause symptoms: Hormone therapy from Dr Love Mt Pleasant may improve mood, reduce hot flashes, and decrease night sweats, thereby giving your quality of life back and decreasing the need for prescription and nonprescription drugs.
Prevents osteoporosis and fractures: According to Dr Love Mt Pleasant, long-term hormone therapy reduces your risk of osteoporosis developing. If you already have low bone density (osteopenia), hormone therapy can increase your bone mineral density. Doctors generally recommend bisphosphonates for osteoporosis prevention but may also prescribe HRT in some cases.
Reduces hot flashes: Hot flashes and night sweats during menopause can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. HRT has been shown to reduce their frequency, making life more comfortable.
Increases libido: Longer-term studies show that hormone therapy can increase libido and improve sexual health.
Improves sleep: Researchers have found that hormone therapy reduces insomnia and improves sleep quality, particularly during menopause.
Improves mood: Depression, anxiety, and irritability are a price we often pay during our perimenopausal and menopausal years due to the changes in hormone levels and the sudden drop in estrogen. Studies have shown that women using hormone therapy are less likely to experience these symptoms, or they will experience less severe symptoms. HRT may also reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Improves cardiovascular health: HRT offered by Dr Love NeuLogics may reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. It may also lower blood pressure, improve insulin sensitivity, and improve cholesterol levels.
Methods of taking HRT
Hormone replacement therapy is available through a variety of delivery methods. According to Dr Love Mt Pleasant, they commonly include:
- Pills
- Patches
- Gels
- Vaginal rings
- Vaginal suppositories
- Creams
The lowest effective dose is generally recommended, with treatment being limited to the amount of time in which it is most effective.
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Risks of HRT
Like any medication, hormone replacement therapy carries risks. But these are generally outweighed by the benefits of relieving menopausal symptoms and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. However, it is important to understand that there may be an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, blood clots, and cancer in some cases. Other side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, bloating, headache, and irregular bleeding. Speak with a doctor about your risks, requirements, family history, and personal health situation.
To reduce risks, having a healthy lifestyle is recommended by Dr Travis Love. A healthy lifestyle should include daily exercise, a nutritious diet, reducing stress, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption, managing health conditions, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol at acceptable levels.
To find out what the best option is for you, book a consultation with Dr Travis Love.