HRT (hormone replacement therapy) may not be right for everybody but if you’re struggling with symptoms of the menopause it could be a good idea to talk to someone before you rule it out.
Note this is a sponsored post. I have not yet used HRT so not accessed this service myself.
About the Menopause
Although it seems that menopause is thought of as something that begins at fifty this clearly isn’t the case. The average age in Great Britain is apparently 51 but can occur in your 30’s or 40’s, or in some cases even younger. See I am TypeCast for her experiences of early menopause.
The Menopause itself is actually when you have gone without a period for 12 months. Prior to this it is known as the peri-menopause. This can last up to around ten years as female hormone levels drop. It is this dropping that causes the symptoms associated with the menopause – and some that you may not release were.
Dropping Hormones during the Menopause
The two female hormones that drop are Oestrogen (the hormone that helps to release eggs from the ovaries; controls periods and helps with conception) and Progesterone (which helps to prepare the womb for pregnancy). You do not need progesterone and can take oestrogen-only HRT tablets if you have had a hysterectomy. Selecting which product is best for you it is recommended that you have a consultation with a registered doctor.
HRT – Hormone Replacement Therapy
There is actually quite a range of HRT products, in different forms – capsules, gels, sprays, patches, tablets and creams. Oxford Online Pharmacy provides an online consultation with a GMC registered doctor. Once you have selected the desired product you fill in a free online doctor’s questionnaire. The doctor then reviews your medical history and, if approved, will issue your prescription.
Plus if you already have a private or NHS prescription this too can be redeemed at Oxford Online Pharmacy. Your prescription will then be dispensed discreetly to your address. Note you may be asked for permission to inform your doctor of any prescribed treatment.
Symptoms of the Menopause
You will not experience the menopause the same as the next person. There are a variety of menopausal symptoms but you will not have them all. Again this is why it is a good idea that you speak to someone who is knowledgeable in the menopause.
Symptoms of the menopause include:
- Irregular periods
- Weight gain
- Hot flushes
- Changes in libido (both higher and lower)
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Sleeping difficulties
- Poor concentration
- Vaginal dryness
- Night sweats
- Sore boobs
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Loss of hair
- Memory lapse
- Bloating
- Pains in joints
- Electric shocks
- Burning tongue
- Problems with gums
- Digestive issues
- Dry and itchy skin
- Dizziness
- Brittle nails
- Tight muscles
- Stress incontinence
- Body odour
- Irritability
- Allergies
- Irregular heartbeat
- Depression
- Panic disorder
- Osteoporosis
As you can imagine some of these symptoms make life very difficult. HRT replaces lowering levels of female hormones oestrogen and progesterone as the menopause approaches. Thus relieving the symptoms.
HRT and Breast Cancer
Some people are wary of HRT due to its association with Breast Cancer. There are a number of studies showing different things about this, but that the risk is thought to be minimal if you are healthy and have no previous cases in your family. Vaginal estrogens are also thought to be safer. Again if you are concerned it is best to just have a consultation.
It is worth noting that HRT does not just help with symptoms but with future health issues caused by low hormone levels, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.
Natural Remedies as Alternatives to HRT
If you do not wish to use HRT then lifestyle changes can be made including to diet, exercising, yoga, meditation and cold water therapy. Other natural remedies include soy, vitamin E, black cohosh (for relieving hot flushes and night sweats); flax seeds (also for hot flushes) and vitamin E (for vaginal dryness).
Images Source from Unsplash.com https://unsplash.com/ and my own.
I’ve been on HRT for two and a half years now, two years with the patches. I think it’s amazing! I would definitely recommend giving it a try.