Want a cure for not only menopausal symptoms but also protection for your memory, heart and bones?  Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was once thought to be the answer, but it is now known that the benefits may not outweigh the risks. A lot of things factor into, and sometimes limit, the risks of HRT-like age and health status.  There are so many studies to consider and so many variations to factor in, it is hard to find the answers you are looking for.

For some people, the answer to whether or not to go on HRT is not hard – If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, or if you have cardiovascular disease, don’t take hormones.  For those who do not have these risks, the decision can be less clear.

Before starting HRT, there are some natural things that can be used to ease symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes.  Some of these natural therapies include the herb black cohosh, traditional Chinese medicine, and relaxation methods (yoga, breath work).

In healthy women HRT can relieve severe menopausal symptoms even if natural approaches have not been effective.If you are considering HRT, there are different options that you can consider.  Bioidentical hormones have a similar molecular structure to the hormones produced by a woman’s body.  It has not been proven that these are any safer than synthetic brands, but some patients seem to have fewer side effects when the hormones are bioidentical.  These are sold as estrogen under brands such as Vivelle, Estrace, and Climara and progesterone under Prometrium.

Hormone Replacement Therapy has also been known to cause post-menopausal bleeding.  The uterine lining, which is sensitive to the estrogen that promotes the growth of the endometrium, become thinner and more prone to bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse.  Usually by manipulation and alteration of the hormone regimen, this type of bleeding can be controlled.

No matter what type of HRT you decide to use, you can ask your physician to prescribe the lowest effective dose and stay on it for a short time only.  After about one year of use, you may be able to be weaned off altogether.

In the United States, the average age at which menopause occurs naturally, is 51, but it can begin as early as 40 and as old as age 60.  In addition, medical treatments such as chemotherapy and total hysterectomy can induce menopause.

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