by Elizabeth Garcia | Sep 3, 2024 | Menopause
Menopause can often bring a wave of uncomfortable symptoms. Hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disruptions – these challenges can impact your daily life and overall well-being. But remember, you are not alone. Menopause treatment can help you manage these symptoms and empower you to embrace this new chapter with confidence and energy.
At HerKare, we understand the unique needs of women navigating menopause. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care and evidence-based treatments. Book an appointment with us now so we can support you through this transition time.
Menopause Affects You Physically and Emotionally
Feel energized and healthy with personalized menopause treatment.
Menopause, often referred to as “the change,” marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is a natural biological process triggered by the gradual decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone, the primary female sex hormones. Typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.
The hormonal fluctuations during this transition can lead to a wide array of physical symptoms. The most commonly reported include hot flashes, those sudden sensations of intense heat that can leave you flushed and sweating, and night sweats, their nighttime counterpart that can disrupt sleep and leave you feeling exhausted. Other physical symptoms may include sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, urinary problems, joint pain, and weight gain.
While these physical symptoms are often the focus of discussions around menopause, it’s important to recognize that the emotional and psychological impact can be equally significant. The hormonal shifts during menopause can affect brain chemistry, leading to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Women may experience a sense of loss or grief as they say goodbye to their reproductive years and grapple with changes in their body and identity.
The decline in estrogen can also contribute to cognitive challenges, often referred to as “brain fog.” You might find yourself struggling with memory, concentration, and focus. These mental hurdles can impact your work, relationships, and overall sense of self-confidence.
Additionally, sleep disturbances, a common symptom of menopause, can exacerbate emotional and psychological challenges. Lack of sleep can heighten irritability, anxiety, and feelings of depression. It can also create a vicious cycle, where emotional distress further disrupts sleep patterns.
The emotional and psychological effects of menopause are not experienced in isolation. They can intertwine with other life stressors that often coincide with this stage of life, such as caring for aging parents, navigating career changes, or dealing with empty nest syndrome. These compounding factors can amplify the feeling of being overwhelmed.
You should know that the emotional and psychological symptoms of menopause are not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. They are a natural consequence of the hormonal changes your body is undergoing. By understanding these changes and seeking support, you can navigate this transition more easily and naturally.
Menopause Treatment Options for You
When it comes to managing your symptoms, personalized menopause treatment plans are key. One of the most effective treatments is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT involves supplementing your body to boost your low hormone levels and effectively address the root cause of many symptoms. This may include treating estrogen and/or progesterone.
Estrogen-only therapy is typically recommended for women who have had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). For women with an intact uterus, combined estrogen and progesterone therapy is generally prescribed to protect the lining of the uterus and reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
HRT comes in various forms, and it can be administered as estrogen-only therapy or a combination of estrogen and progesterone. The choice of HRT type depends on various factors, including your medical history, symptoms, and personal preferences. However, we recommend HRT injections as the most efficient method to get your body the proper dose of hormones that it needs.
HRT Helps Improve Physical Symptoms
Menopause treatment with HRT can offer significant relief from many of the most bothersome physical symptoms of menopause. Let’s explore some key benefits in greater depth.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: These sudden, intense heat surges can disrupt your daily life and sleep patterns. HRT can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of these episodes, allowing you to regain comfort and control.
Sleep Disturbances: Menopause often brings insomnia and fragmented sleep, leaving you feeling exhausted. HRT can help regulate sleep patterns, improving sleep quality and promoting restful nights.
Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort: As estrogen levels decline, the vaginal tissues can become thin, dry, and less elastic, leading to discomfort, pain during intercourse, and increased susceptibility to infections. HRT can restore vaginal moisture and elasticity, improving sexual health and overall comfort.
Bone Health: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. The decline in estrogen during menopause can accelerate bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. HRT can help preserve bone mass and reduce the risk of fractures, protecting your long-term mobility and independence.
Support Menopause Treatment with Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Embracing healthy lifestyle choices can significantly enhance your overall well-being and complement your menopause treatment plan.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides essential nutrients and helps regulate hormones. Calcium-rich foods and vitamin D supplements are particularly important for maintaining bone health during menopause. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol, as they can exacerbate hot flashes and disrupt sleep. In addition, taking certain supplements may be beneficial during menopause. Talk to your healthcare provider about vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can support bone and heart health during this stage of life.
Regular exercise offers a multitude of benefits during menopause. It can improve mood, reduce stress, strengthen bones, and promote better sleep. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, dancing, and strength training are all excellent options.
We all know that quality sleep is essential for physical and emotional health. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as they can interfere with sleep.
Stress can worsen hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Incorporate stress-reducing techniques into your daily life, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature.
Don’t underestimate the value of sharing your experiences. Connecting with other women going through menopause can provide valuable support and understanding. Consider joining a support group or connecting with friends and family.
Remember, these lifestyle changes are not a substitute for medical treatment, but they can significantly improve your quality of life during menopause. Embrace these healthy habits and empower yourself to thrive!
Rediscover Your Best Self at HerKare
At HerKare, we believe every woman deserves personalized care and support during her menopause journey. Our women’s health clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert treatment tailored to your unique needs. We’ll work with you to manage symptoms, optimize your health, and empower you to embrace this new chapter with confidence.
Take the first step towards a more vibrant, fulfilling future. Schedule your menopause treatment consultation at HerKare today.
by Elizabeth Garcia | Jun 24, 2024 | Menopause
Menopause. It’s a word that can spark a rollercoaster of emotions. The truth is, menopause is a natural transition, and every woman experiences it differently. If you are experiencing difficult or frustrating symptoms during this transition, hormonal menopause treatment can help.
Today, we’ll explore the different stages of menopause and how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help alleviate some of the most common symptoms of a hormonal imbalance. If you’re ready to explore menopause treatment options with a team that understands your needs, look no further than HerKare.
We offer personalized treatment plans to help you regain control and live your life to the fullest. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your hormone levels assessed.
Fluctuating Estrogen During Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the lead-up phase to full menopause. It typically starts 8 to 10 years before your final period, and can last for several years. For most women, this starts in your early 40s, though some women may start experiencing perimenopause even earlier.
During this time, your ovaries gradually slow down egg production, leading to fluctuating estrogen levels. These hormonal shifts are the reason you might start experiencing some unwelcome changes.
Irregular periods are often the first sign of perimenopause. You might have shorter or longer cycles, heavier or lighter bleeding, or even skip periods altogether. But perimenopause isn’t just about your cycle. You may begin experiencing hot flashes, those sudden waves of heat that leave you sweaty and flushed, or night sweats that disrupt your sleep. Perhaps vaginal dryness is making intimacy uncomfortable, or mood swings are throwing your days off track. Another very common sign of decreasing estrogen is unexplained weight gain, particularly around your waist.
If you notice increasinging frequency with any of these symptoms, low-dose estrogen therapy can help. Balancing your fluctuating estrogen levels can help improve many of these perimenopausal symptoms. Talk to a healthcare provider specializing in women’s hormones can help you determine if menopause treatment is right for you and what type and dosage would work best to manage your specific symptoms.
Steadier but Lower Levels in Menopause
Menopause treatment with bioidentical hormones can help you continue to enjoy the things you love.
You will officially be in menopause when you have gone 12 months without a menstrual period. This milestone signifies the end of your reproductive years, but it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. While menopause brings changes, it also frees you from planning around your menstrual cycles. This newfound freedom can allow you to focus on your health, passions, and relationships in a whole new way.
Because your hormone levels tend to stabilize in this phase, some women find their symptoms lessen during menopause. However, even though your estrogen levels are more stable, they also tend to be much lower than they were before. This means you may continue to experience the frustration of ongoing hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain, even though you no longer have a menstrual cycle.
The good news is that hormone replacement therapy can continue to be used during this stage of life. Bioidentical hormones can help bring up your low estrogen to a level that helps your body function more efficiently. This is important because estrogen plays many key roles in your overall health, including optimizing your metabolism, maintaining the health of your blood vessels, and protecting your bone density, amongst other benefits.
If you still have a uterus, there’s an additional consideration. Adding progestin to your estrogen therapy regimen can significantly reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, a type of uterine cancer. This combination approach offers comprehensive protection and symptom relief.
Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is key throughout this time. They can personalize your menopause treatment plan to address your specific needs and help ensure you feel your best during this transition.
Protecting Your Long-Term Health in Postmenopause
Postmenopause stretches out for years after your final period. During this time, estrogen levels remain consistently low, which can affect many aspects of your health. In particular, it can put you at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures.
Doctors often recommend medications called bisphosphonates as the first line of defense for osteoporosis. However, HRT can be a valuable option if you can’t tolerate bisphosphonates or haven’t found them effective. The supplemental estrogen in HRT tackles the root cause of the problem. Our bones are constantly undergoing a remodeling process, with new bone formation balanced by the breakdown of old bone. Estrogen helps tip the scales in favor of bone formation by stimulating the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone tissue. With lower estrogen levels in postmenopause, this delicate balance is disrupted, leading to faster bone breakdown.
Boosted levels of estrogen also help maintain the elasticity and flexibility of blood vessels as you age, allowing them to relax and dilate properly. This translates to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease, a top health concern for postmenopausal women. When estrogen levels drop, your blood vessel health can decline, potentially leading to higher blood pressure and increased risk of heart complications over time.
Personalized Hormone Therapy – Menopause Treatment At Every Stage
Menopause unfolds differently for every woman. That’s why menopause treatment with HRT offers a powerful tool to combat common issues like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. The decision to use hormone replacement is personal and requires careful consideration with an experienced healthcare provider.
If you’re ready to improve your symptoms and protect your long-term health throughout the coming years, HerKare is here to guide you every step of the way. We offer trusted and experienced hormone care, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support throughout your menopause journey. Contact us now and schedule your first menopause treatment appointment to get started.
by Elizabeth Garcia | Jun 20, 2023 | Menopause, Wellness
You have a natural balance of good and bad bacteria in your body that can be impacted by the physical and emotional stress of menopause symptoms. Symptoms such as hot flashes or irregular periods may come and go for months or even years, but incorporating probiotics into your daily women’s health care routine can make a difference.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are the same as or similar to microorganisms that naturally live in our bodies. Probiotic supplements can help tip the balance in your body back towards good bacteria. In fact, recent research has suggested that certain strains of these beneficial bacteria can help manage common complaints associated with menopause.
During menopause, healthy lifestyle choices have a direct impact on how you feel day to day. These choices can include eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and taking supplementary vitamins or probiotics. While probiotics alone may not be enough to tackle menopause symptoms, they can be an excellent complement to other treatment options as part of your women’s health care, including Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
Navigating menopause can be a serious challenge for many women. If you are suffering from menopausal changes, you may be looking for options that can help you feel like yourself again. Get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment. We can treat your symptoms and help you feel better.
Probiotics Can Help Ease Menopause Symptoms
Women’s health care during menopause can include incorporating probiotics into your daily routine to help with your menopause symptoms.
Probiotic supplements contain different strains of bacteria, each of which interacts with your body in various ways. Some studies have shown that various probiotics may help lessen the impact of your menopause symptoms. However, their long-term effectiveness is still unproven. Ongoing research is still needed to fully understand the benefits and limitations of probiotics for women’s health care during menopause.
Hot Flashes: Hot flashes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom of menopause. According to one study, taking probiotics along with herbal supplements like red clover may help reduce the incidence and intensity of hot flashes.
Sleep and Mood: It’s no secret that poor sleep can negatively impact our mood and overall well-being, especially for those of us who are prone to anxiety or depression. Recently, a scientific review found a correlation between probiotic bacteria and improved sleep quality and mood.
Vaginal Health: The lack of estrogen production during menopause can cause an increase in the vaginal pH level, which can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. However, some studies suggest that using probiotics alone or in combination with antimicrobial medications may be effective in preventing vaginal infections.
Bone Health: As we age, maintaining strong and healthy bones becomes increasingly important. After menopause, bone health is especially critical. Bone density is a key indicator of overall skeletal health. A recent review found that taking probiotics may help increase bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.
Weight Loss: Some research has indicated that probiotics may play a key role in promoting weight loss. By increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in our gut, these helpful microorganisms can create short-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and fat deposits in our bodies. Additionally, they may help improve insulin sensitivity and better blood sugar control, further supporting your weight management.
Probiotics are generally safe for most women to take. However, if you have a weakened immune system, you should check with your healthcare provider before starting to take a new type of probiotic supplement.
Menopause Symptoms May Affect Your Health
Menopause is often accompanied by a range of symptoms that can significantly disrupt daily life. From hot flashes and mood changes to fatigue and vaginal dryness, symptoms vary from woman to woman. If left unmanaged, they can take a toll on your quality of life. In fact, they may even lead to more serious health issues. Reduced estrogen can increase your . And unexpected weight gain and higher cortisol levels can escalate your blood sugar levels, which is dangerous for women who have diabetes or are predisposed to this disease.
Don’t let difficult menopause symptoms dictate your well-being. Women’s health care is crucial in managing and treating menopause symptoms and preventing long-term health issues. So if you’re experiencing menopause and its symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek help.
HRT is the Most Effective Option for Women’s Healthy Menopause Care
As we age, menopause can take a real toll on our physical and emotional health. Symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disruption can be incredibly challenging to manage. HRT is a proven method that relieves your symptoms. We typically prescribe all-natural bioidentical hormone therapy rather than synthetic hormones, as they are identical to the type of hormones your body produces. The benefits you’ll experience with HRT can include more energy, improved concentration, better muscle tone, and fewer wrinkles.
Women’s Health Care from HerKare
We offer a variety of menopause treatments to meet your individual needs. Our knowledgeable and experienced providers will answer any questions you may have and provide personalized care to help you feel like yourself again. So don’t hesitate – contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options!
by Elizabeth Garcia | May 19, 2023 | Menopause, Weight Loss
For many women, menopause slows down your metabolism, making it difficult to lose extra weight. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated because your weight isn’t budging, even though you feel like you’re doing all the right things. Weight loss for women after menopause is possible, but it requires learning a new way to approach losing weight.
By learning about how your hormones affect postmenopausal weight loss, you can better understand what changes may be happening inside your body – which gives you the power to take control of your health and make informed decisions that are tailored to meet your specific needs.
Because hormonal change is such a significant factor in postmenopausal weight management, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be a highly effective option for you to successfully achieve a healthy bodyweight. Contact us to book an appointment to find out how we can help find the right weight loss solution for you.
The Role of Hormones in Weight Gain After Menopause
Weight loss for women is more difficult after menopause due to hormonal changes and can be improved with hormone replacement therapy.
Menopausal women often experience weight gain due to fluctuating hormones. As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, the body’s fat distribution changes. You begin to gain more fat in the abdomen and around your internal organs. This is called visceral fat, and can actively increase the risk of other serious health problems, such as:
- High Blood Pressure
- Stroke
- Heart Disease
- Type 2 Diabetes
Other hormones like cortisol and insulin also change during menopause and can negatively impact your metabolism. Going through menopause can cause stress levels to rise, meaning a higher level of cortisol will be present in your body. High cortisol levels can cause you to crave sugary and fatty foods. Meanwhile, your reduced estrogen can also make you more sensitive to insulin, which raises your blood sugar levels. High blood sugar causes your body to store fat more quickly.
Understanding these hormonal changes is the first step toward maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the chance of other health risks after menopause.
Hormone Replacement Therapy Boosts Weight Loss and Improves Well-Being
HRT provides relief for many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and sleep issues. When administered under the care of our qualified providers, hormone replacement can be a safe and natural option for postmenopausal women who want to improve their health.
For postmenopausal women struggling with stubborn weight gain, hormone replacement is also an effective method to help promote weight loss. By replenishing your depleted estrogen and progesterone hormones, metabolism is supported so your body is able to more efficiently utilize fat stores for energy.
With HRT, not only can you start regaining control over your weight, but you can have more energy and an improved sense of well-being. When combined with practical lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, good sleep, and reduced stress, you can start to feel like yourself again.
Consume a Balanced Diet to Lose Weight After Menopause
For postmenopausal women looking to lose weight, consuming a balanced diet with the right nutrients is key to managing hormone changes. Eating the right amount of calories your body needs each day not only provides energy but gives you the right amount of nutrition to fuel your body. Although every woman’s specific nutritional needs are slightly different, general nutrition guidelines after menopause include:
- Fewer calories
- Less iron
- Lower fiber
- More calcium
- Higher Vitamin D and B-6
A diet that is high in lean protein and healthy fats, and low in sugar and processed carbs, can help maintain your metabolism and keep blood sugar steady. Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, berries, and beans are excellent choices that provide nutrients to support bone and heart health too.
Focusing on a nutritious diet and lifestyle is key to supporting hormonal balance and weight management during and after menopause.
Get Enough Sleep and Reduce Stress to Support Healthy Weight Loss After Menopause
Getting adequate sleep and managing stress are critical to help your body’s systems function at their optimal levels. Sleep helps regulate the hormones that control hunger and appetite, including the stress hormone cortisol and the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin. During menopause, fluctuating hormone levels can disrupt sleep, making weight gain more likely. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep per night to allow leptin levels to increase and cortisol levels to decrease, which helps curb appetite and prevent overeating. To offset stress, try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to help reduce the stress hormones that increase cravings and fat storage.
Exercise Regularly to Combat Weight Gain After Menopause
Exercise is critical for maintaining a healthy weight during and after menopause. As estrogen drops, the body holds onto fat and muscle mass decreases, slowing metabolism. Regular exercise helps boost metabolism, build muscle, and burn fat. Even light activity like walking, yoga, or gardening for 30 minutes a day five times a week can have significant benefits for postmenopausal women.
Strength or resistance training is also important to maintain bone density and muscle mass. Staying active and exercising regularly can help menopausal women feel better, improve sleep and mood, and reduce health risks, all while combating the effects of shifting hormones on your weight. Making physical activity a daily habit is key to long term success.
Feel Your Best After Menopause with HerKare
Menopause should not stop you from achieving your health goals and feeling your best. You can still lose weight after menopause with the right combination of weight loss solutions, including HRT, diet, exercise, sleep and stress management. Our team of healthcare professionals is here to support you through the transitions around menopause.
Learn more about how HRT might be beneficial for supporting healthy weight loss for women after menopause. Contact us to book an appointment today.
by Elizabeth Garcia | Apr 20, 2023 | Hormone Replacement Therapy, Menopause
Are you a woman in the midst of menopause? If so, you may be considering estrogen replacement therapy to help alleviate symptoms. These medicines can help you enjoy life again and relieve uncomfortable menopause symptoms like hot flashes, weight gain, low sex drive, and vaginal dryness. However, it’s important to know that there are different delivery methods to choose from. If you’re not sure which is right for you, our team is here to help. Two of the most popular types of estrogen replacement therapy during menopause are injections and vaginal creams. In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between these types of hormone replacement therapy and their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision on the best course of treatment for you.
Don’t struggle through life with menopause symptoms, reach out to our team for help. We offer customized treatment plans that include hormone therapy and lifestyle changes to help you feel better. Schedule an appointment today at one of our convenient locations!
Why Estrogen Is Important for Women’s Health
Estrogen replacement therapy can relieve menopausal symptoms and help you feel like yourself again.
Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in women’s health. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle, strengthen bones, and promote healthy skin and hair. However, when estrogen levels become imbalanced, it can lead to a range of health problems, such as irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and even painful sex. As we age, estrogen levels naturally decline, eventually leading to menopause. This can cause a variety of symptoms that might be disruptive to everyday life. Fortunately, there are ways to keep estrogen levels stable and healthy even during menopause to alleviate your symptoms. Taking care of your hormonal health can seriously improve your overall well-being and quality of life, especially during menopause.
Estrogen Replacement Therapy Can Help Relieve Menopause Symptoms
Menopause can be a challenging time for many women. The uncomfortable hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness can significantly affect your daily life. Luckily, hormone replacement therapy with estrogen can help alleviate many of these symptoms. By increasing estrogen during menopause, it can prevent a lot of the negative aspects of menopause, like the life-altering symptoms. It may also reduce the risk of certain health conditions during menopause, like osteoporosis, as estrogen helps keep your bones strong. So, if you’re struggling with menopause symptoms, get in touch with our healthcare providers to determine if estrogen replacement therapy is the right option for you.
Benefits and Risks of Estrogen Replacement Therapy
If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, estrogen replacement therapy is a commonly prescribed medicine to help you feel better. It offers many benefits for women suffering with symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It may also come with some added health benefits like keeping your bones strong or reducing your risk for heart disease. However, like all medications, it also comes with some potential risks. For instance, estrogen replacement therapy may increase your risk for certain conditions like blood clots, breast cancer, and uterine cancer.
It’s important to talk to our providers about the benefits and risks of HRT for your individual circumstances. We help you weigh the pros and cons and determine what’s right for you. Just keep in mind that for most women who suffer from menopause symptoms and are otherwise healthy, usually the benefits outweigh the risks for estrogen replacement therapy.
Types of Estrogen Replacement Therapy: Injections and Vaginal Creams
Estrogen replacement therapy can be a lifesaver for women experiencing symptoms of menopause. It can really improve your life during menopause. Our providers will work with you to find the right options for your needs. If HRT is right for you, this means finding not only the right dose, but the right methods for hormone replacement therapy.
There are different types of estrogen replacement therapy, with injections and vaginal creams being two options. Injections provide a steady dose of estrogen throughout the body, while vaginal creams are applied directly to the affected area for localized relief. It’s important to consult with our healthcare providers to determine which option is best for you based on your symptoms, medical history, and individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Injectable Estrogen Replacement Therapy
One option for estrogen replacement therapy is regular estrogen injections. These injections provide bioidentical estrogen directly into the bloodstream to supplement your body’s estrogen levels. This is a convenient and effective option if you’re struggling with menopause symptoms.
Among the biggest benefits of estrogen replacement therapy injections is that they can treat a wide range of menopause symptoms. Since they go through the body systemically, you can get relief from a variety of symptoms like:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes
- Vaginal dryness
Treatment with injectable estrogen replacement therapy involves getting regular estrogen shots, combined with progesterone medications if you still have your uterus. This provides a steady dose of estrogen right in your blood so it can travel to various tissues in your body.
However, injections aren’t right for everyone. Compared to vaginal estrogen creams, estrogen shots typically provide a higher dose of estrogen in the bloodstream. This might lead to side effects as well as risks for things like blood clots for some women. Our team can help you determine if estrogen injections are the right choice for you. Remember, every person is unique, and what might work for one person may not work for another.
Pros and Cons of Vaginal Estrogen
Vaginal creams for estrogen replacement therapy can be a useful option for many women during menopause as well. These are often used as an alternative to injectable estrogen replacement therapy. These creams work by delivering estrogen directly to the vaginal tissues, helping to restore moisture and elasticity.
Since vaginal estrogen creams are used topically, they offer a lower dose of estrogen compared to many other delivery methods, including estrogen injections. While your body will likely absorb some of the medicine into the bloodstream, most of the estrogen stays in the tissues of the vagina and vulva. This often means that there are fewer risks and side effects for this type of treatment.
However, there is a big downside to using vaginal estrogen instead of systemic estrogen like injections. Because it doesn’t go throughout the body, vaginal cream does not usually improve symptoms like hot flashes, sleep issues, and other menopause symptoms. Instead, it generally only helps symptoms localized to the genital area, like vaginal dryness, burning, or irritation. In some cases, it may also help with urinary urgency and painful sex. However, it’s a really limited treatment option. So, if you’re struggling with other menopause symptoms, it likely won’t be an effective treatment for you. Additionally, keep in mind that because it’s a cream, you can transfer it to sexual partners, which can cause side effects and health concerns, so you’ll need to make sure you avoid sex right after applying the creams. Our team can help you decide whether vaginal estrogen creams are a good choice based on your individual needs.
Considerations for The Type of Hormone Replacement Therapy You Take
When it comes to choosing a preferred method of estrogen replacement therapy, there are several factors to take into consideration. Firstly, it’s important to consider the severity and duration of menopausal symptoms, as this will help determine whether a systemic or localized approach is necessary. Other factors to consider include personal preferences and lifestyle habits, such as convenience and schedule flexibility. Additionally, medical history and current health status should also be taken into account, as certain health conditions may influence the choice of estrogen replacement therapy. As always, it’s important to consult with our healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate course of action and ensure safe and effective treatment. Remember, choosing the right method of estrogen replacement therapy can help provide relief and improve quality of life during menopause.
Personalized Care from HerKare
It’s clear that estrogen replacement therapy can have many significant health benefits, while also coming with potential risks. When considering the best treatment option, it is important to weigh hormone levels alongside lifestyle factors and overall health goals. No matter which type of estrogen replacement therapy you choose, our team is here to provide personalized care that fits you and your lifestyle. We are a women’s health clinic dedicated to helping you feel your best. Our providers are here to help you make important decisions for your healthcare. Prioritize self-care by reaching out to our team to talk about your symptoms. Make an appointment today to get started.
by Melanie Remy | Apr 6, 2023 | Hormone Replacement Therapy, Menopause, Wellness
Menopause is a natural, yet often overwhelming time in the life of women. It can cause physical and emotional changes that can be hard to adjust to and manage on your own. What many don’t realize is that symptoms like hot flashes and mood changes are due to low estrogen levels, particularly a type of estrogen called estradiol. If you’re like many menopausal women looking for more information about this change in hormones, then take some time to learn about estradiol — the form of estrogen most affected by menopause. Stay tuned for facts about estradiol’s role before and after menopause, as well as tips on managing this shift with personalized treatment solutions!
If you’re struggling with symptoms of low estrogen and menopause symptoms, reach out to our team today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help you feel better.
Types of Estrogen
Low estrogen can cause a lot of uncomfortable symptoms.
Estrogen is a crucial hormone in a woman’s body. It’s responsible for many things, like regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone health, and protecting the cardiovascular system. You’ve probably heard of estrogen before, but did you know there are different types? The three types of estrogen are:
- Estradiol
- Estrone
- Estriol
Estradiol is the most predominant form of estrogen. It’s more potent than the other types and is made mostly in the ovaries. Estradiol is the hormone that controls a lot of the things you might think of when you consider estrogen, like reproduction and bone health. So, if your doctor says you have low estrogen, they’re likely talking about estradiol.
Estrone, on the other hand, is the most predominant type of estrogen in postmenopausal women. This is considered the weakest type of estrogen. The adrenal glands and fat tissues in your body are responsible for most estrone production. Before menopause, it can be converted into estradiol in the body, but since you need less estradiol after menopause and you can no longer get pregnant, it tends to stay as estrone in the body after the menopausal transition.
Lastly, estriol is produced during pregnancy by the placenta. It’s responsible for many important tasks during pregnancy, like helping the uterus grow and stay healthy and preparing the body for birth and breastfeeding. In people who aren’t pregnant, estriol levels are almost undetectable and don’t play a very significant role in the body.
Estradiol’s Importance for Your Health
Estradiol is a hormone that is essential for women’s health. For instance, estradiol levels affect things like the menstrual cycle, bone health, blood cholesterol levels, and even brain function. As we age, our estradiol levels naturally decline, leading up to menopause where they drop significantly. Low estradiol levels can lead to a range of health issues, including osteoporosis and increased risk for heart disease. Since this type of estrogen is so potent, it’s what’s primarily responsible for the symptoms of menopause and low estrogen.
There are some lifestyle factors you can do to maintain healthy estradiol levels throughout your life, including things like eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise. However, after menopause, you might need hormone replacement therapy to boost estradiol to relieve your symptoms, since your ovaries stop producing as much estradiol as they did before.
Estradiol Levels Before Menopause
While estradiol is found in both men and women, it’s particularly important for women. It plays an important role in our premenopausal years by regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining vaginal health. Before menopause, your estradiol levels will fluctuate based on where you are in your monthly cycle, with estradiol being highest in the first half of the cycle and then declining as you get closer to your period. In fact, these low estrogen levels during your cycle, while normal, are likely responsible for premenstrual symptoms.
As you get closer to menopause, also known as perimenopause, estradiol levels may fluctuate more significantly. They may get really high or low during this time in the lead up to menopause. This is also frequently why women start experiencing menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness before their period stops.
Estradiol Levels After Menopause
After menopause, when you’ve reached 12 months without a period, there is a significant drop in estrogen levels, particularly estradiol. These low estrogen levels happen because the ovaries stop producing estradiol, which causes your period to end. It can also lead to continuing symptoms like hot flashes and mood changes as your body gets used to the new normal for estrogen levels. Low estradiol levels after you reach menopause can also cause many health changes, with an increased risk for several serious conditions, like heart disease and osteoporosis. That’s why it’s important to speak with your doctor about any concerns you may have and discuss options for managing your estradiol levels after menopause. With proper care and attention, you can maintain your health and well-being for years to come. In many cases, estrogen replacement therapy can help address both symptoms and health risks after menopause related to low estrogen levels.
Signs of Low Estrogen
As women, we go through a lot of changes throughout our lives, and one of the most common is fluctuating estrogen levels. Low estrogen levels can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
It’s important to pay attention to these signs because low estrogen levels can also have long-term effects on our overall health, including bone loss and an increased risk of certain cancers. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to our healthcare team to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Remember, taking care of ourselves means paying attention to the signs our bodies are giving us!
Causes of Low Estradiol
Obviously, estradiol is an important hormone in our bodies, as one of the main types of estrogen. However, what actually causes estradiol levels to drop? Menopause is a major culprit. As we age and get closer to menopause, our ovaries stop producing as much estradiol. This is a natural, albeit often uncomfortable process that you may need to manage with hormone therapy.
However, there are other things that can cause low estrogen as well. For instance, having a really low body weight is one. Excessive exercise is another. Also, certain medications can often lower estradiol.
It’s important to speak with our healthcare providers if you are experiencing symptoms of low estradiol, as they can help determine the underlying cause and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, knowledge is power, and understanding what’s going on with your body can help you feel your best.
How to Diagnose Low Estrogen Levels
If you’re suffering from low estrogen symptoms, then talk to our healthcare providers. We can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide tailored treatment plans to relieve your symptoms. Discussing your symptoms and ruling out other causes is one way that we frequently diagnose low estradiol levels.
In some cases, we may recommend blood tests to look at how much estradiol is in your blood. In fact, it’s common to use these tests to determine your menopausal status, like if you take hormonal birth control and aren’t sure whether you’re experiencing a true period or withdrawal bleeding. Blood tests can let us see the amount of estradiol in your blood as well as the amount of follicle-stimulating hormone, which is what stimulates estrogen production in the ovaries.
By analyzing your estradiol levels, our providers can determine if hormone replacement therapy or other treatments would be beneficial for you. It’s important to be open and honest with your doctor about any symptoms or concerns you may have, as this will help them provide you with the best possible care. So don’t hesitate to ask questions or bring up any worries – your health is important, and our team is here to help.
Treatments for Low Estrogen
Low estradiol levels can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and even bone loss. Fortunately, there are treatment options available that can help alleviate these symptoms and improve your overall health. Medications, such as hormone replacement therapy, can effectively raise estradiol levels and offer symptom relief, while lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can also make a significant impact. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs, but with the right approach, you can manage low estradiol levels and enjoy a better quality of life.
Women’s Health Care from HerKare
In summary, there are three types of estrogen—estradiol, estrone, and estriol— but estradiol is the most important one to know about. It’s important for women’s health and controls a lot of important functions, including the menstrual cycle and menopause. Women may experience a variety of symptoms due to low estradiol levels. To find out more about your own estradiol levels, you can discuss your symptoms with our providers. There are many treatment options for low estradiol levels, including hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes. At HerKare we understand our patients’ unique needs. We work with you to provide hormone care and help you feel your best. So make an appointment at one of our clinics today and let us help you manage your health.
