Aging is a natural biological process that you cannot evade. Unfortunately, it usually results in undesirable side effects due to hormonal changes. For example, there are a number of safe and effective hormone replacement therapies (HRT) available for women. You have to make sure that you are getting the best possible treatment with the help of a hormone replacement specialist like Youthful MD. Also, as you grow older, your body experiences hormonal imbalance as the endocrine function declines. The endocrine system comprises various glands which secrete hormones to control body functions. The good news is that your Plano anti-aging & hormone specialist can help you manage symptoms that come with aging, such as low energy levels and decreased sex drive.
How do hormones cause aging in women?
Estrogen hormone facilitates the maintenance of the reproductive system and contributes to the overall health of the bones and cardiovascular system. As women become older, estrogen production declines, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, irregular menstruation, sleeping problems, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, and low sex drive. These symptoms may be severe in some women and occur mildly in others.
Using hormone replacement therapy, women can
What is hormone replacement therapy?
It is a form of medication that specialists use to treat menopausal symptoms such as night sweats, vaginal dryness, and low sex drive. Hormonal replacement therapy involves using hormone medications to replace the hormones that your body can’t produce. For example, during menopause, women may require hormone replacement therapy to replace estrogen. While this treatment can help ease menopausal symptoms, it poses various health risks. Your chances of developing these risks depend on the type of hormone therapy, dosage, prescription period, and your general well-being.
Working with a specialist is essential to ensure that the benefits of the treatment outweigh the risks. Your doctor tailors the treatment to meet your individual needs.
Risks of anti-aging medications
The estrogen-progestin pill poses several severe health risks such as stroke, heart disease, breast cancer, and blood clots. Different variables such as age, family history, and type of hormone therapy contribute to the risks. For example, women above 60 years have a higher risk of these conditions than younger women. The benefits may outweigh the risk if you start treatment within ten years of menopause.
Women who use the estrogen-only medication have a risk of endometrial cancer. Combining estrogen and progestin reduces the risk of endometrial cancer.
What happens if you can’t take hormone medications?
While hormone replacement therapy can help you ease the menopause symptoms, some women may not be suitable for this treatment. For example, your doctor may advise against hormone therapy if you have a blood clots history. If you are a bad candidate for hormone replacement therapy, simple lifestyle adjustments can help you manage some symptoms. For example, limiting the intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages can help control hot flashes. Your doctor may also prescribe other non-hormone medications to prevent hot flashes.
If you experience periods of painful sexual intercourse due to vaginal dryness, a lubricant or vaginal moisturizer may provide relief. Your doctor may also prescribe ospemifene to alleviate the discomfort.
If you have bothersome menopausal symptoms such as night sweats and mood changes, consult with your doctor at The Riegel Center to establish if anti-aging medication is suitable for you.
