Hormone Replacement Therapy

At Northside/Northpoint OB-GYN, hormone replacement therapy is a pillar of menopause care. We offer these along with the guidance of our The Menopause Society certified practitioners, who are updated with the latest menopause care practices, ensuring you are in expert hands.

Menopause brings challenges and changes that can disrupt or cause discomfort in your advanced years. Understanding this, we make it a point to offer only the best care and guidance on hormone therapy to provide you with effective relief.

Ask our menopause specialists about hormonal replacement therapy and start living your most comfortable menopause years today.

What is Hormone Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a cornerstone of menopause treatment that replaces the estrogen that gradually declines in our bodies as we age. It primarily alleviates uncomfortable vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats and takes different forms.

These are available as pills, patches, or creams and sometimes contain progesterone for uterine protection if necessary. Hormone therapy for women aims to improve their quality of life during menopause by effectively reducing symptoms, taking into consideration their health and wellness goals.

It is more than just an optional form of treatment, given the significant impact menopause has on your health and quality of life. Three out of four women face disruptive menopausal symptoms, with 10% reporting management so challenging that they stop working altogether.

That said, hormonal replacement therapy becomes an indispensable part of your care, providing relief and allowing you to live a comfortable life after menopause.

What are the symptoms of a Hormonal Imbalance?

The primary indication of hormone replacement therapy is for managing the symptoms of hormonal imbalances. From perimenopause to postmenopause, the treatment is targeted toward managing the following symptoms of these imbalances:

Symptoms of Perimenopause

Perimenopause is often called the ‘menopause transition.’ It’s when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, typically kicking in during your late 40s or even mid-30s for some.

The hallmark of perimenopause is menstrual irregularity. As ovulation becomes unpredictable, the menstrual cycle length may be longer or shorter, and periods may be lighter or heavier. Other common symptoms include:

Menstrual irregularity
Hot flashes and night sweats
Sleep problems
Mood changes
Urinary urgency
Breast tenderness

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause is defined as occurring 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period and marks the end of menstrual cycles. The average age in the United States is 51, but it can vary widely. At this stage, menstrual periods cease and manifest with the following symptoms:

No menstruation
Hot flashes
Vaginal changes
Mood fluctuations
Cognitive changes
Weight gain

What are the benefits of hormone therapy for women?

The overarching benefit of hormone therapy for women is relief of menopause symptoms. Hence, hormonal replacement therapy helps achieve the following benefits:

Relief from hot flashes and night sweats. One of the most common and disruptive symptoms of menopause is hot flashes and night sweats. Hormone replacement therapy reduces frequency and severity, enabling comfortable and restful sleep.
Improved mood and mental health. Hormone fluctuations can cause mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Stabilizing hormone levels with the help of HRT to stabilize and improve your mood, balancing your overall emotional state.
Better sleep quality. Insomnia and other sleep disturbances become more frequent as a result of hormonal imbalances. Stabilizing hormone levels with hormone replacement therapy helps improve sleep quality and prevents insomnia.
Prevention of bone loss. Due to decreased estrogen levels, menopause significantly increases the risk of osteoporosis. Hormonal replacement therapy helps maintain bone density, reduce the risk of fractures, and promote long-term bone health.
Alleviation of vaginal dryness and discomfort. Decreased estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during intercourse. Hormone therapy for women can restore vaginal moisture and elasticity, enhancing sexual comfort and health.
Reduced risk of heart disease. Some studies suggest that hormone replacement therapy may lower the risk of heart disease when started around the onset of menopause. This benefit is particularly significant as cardiovascular risk increases post-menopause.

Hormone replacement therapy offers a holistic approach to managing the multifaceted symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, improving your quality of life during these stages. It is important for you to discuss your individual needs with your menopause specialist to determine the appropriate HRT course for you.

Personalized Hormonal Replacement Therapy in Atlanta

At Northside/Northpoint OB-GYN, our certified menopause practitioners are dedicated to providing personalized hormone replacement therapy for your needs. We understand the complexities of menopause and are aware that each woman experiences it in varying ways and degrees.

Take control of your health and well-being today by consulting with our specialized team in Atlanta. We are committed to guiding you through your unique experience of this transition with compassion and care, so you live your healthiest and most comfortable menopausal years.

Schedule your consultation now and discover how our personalized hormone replacement therapy can impact your quality of life.

Hormonal Therapy FAQ

Who is a good candidate for hormonal therapy?

Women experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms who are in good health and have no contraindications, such as a history of breast cancer or heart disease, are generally good candidates for hormonal therapy.

How is hormone therapy administered?

Hormone therapy can be administered in various forms, including pills, patches, gels, creams, and vaginal rings. The choice depends on the patient’s symptoms, health status, and personal preference.

How long should I stay on hormonal replacement therapy?

The duration of hormonal replacement therapy varies for each individual. Generally, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest period necessary to manage symptoms is recommended. Your healthcare provider will tailor the duration to your specific needs.

Can hormone therapy help with bone health?

Yes, hormone therapy for women can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which is particularly important after menopause when the risk of bone loss increases.

What are the alternatives to hormone therapy for managing menopause symptoms?

Alternatives to hormone therapy include lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, non-hormonal medications, herbal supplements, and other therapies like acupuncture. Discuss these options with your doctor to find the best approach for you.

How soon can I expect to see results from hormone therapy?

Many women start to notice improvements in their menopausal symptoms within a few weeks of starting hormone therapy. However, it can take a few months to experience the full benefits.

Is hormone therapy safe for long-term use?

Long-term use of hormone therapy is a subject of ongoing research. While it can be safe and effective for many women, it’s essential to have regular evaluations with your healthcare provider to monitor your health and reassess the need for continued therapy.