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 risk of high blood pressure and hypertension. 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 Phoebee Johnson | 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.
by Phoebee Johnson | Feb 20, 2023 | Hormone Replacement Therapy, Menopause, Wellness
If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, our providers may recommend estrogen replacement therapy to alleviate your symptoms. Many women find relief from bothersome symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances commonly caused by menopause. This has led to many women wondering if estrogen replacement therapy actually stops or delays menopause. The short answer is no, but we’ll explore this more in this blog.
Estrogen replacement therapy won’t stop menopause, but it can stop your menopause symptoms.
If you’re suffering from menopause symptoms, our team provides personalized treatment plans to help you feel your best. Make an appointment today to discuss your symptoms with our healthcare providers.
Can Estrogen Replacement Therapy Prevent or Delay Menopause?
Since estrogen replacement therapy can often stop a lot of the symptoms of menopause, you might be wondering if it actually stops menopause. The answer is no. Estrogen replacement therapy doesn’t stop or delay menopause. Menopause is a natural process that women go through, not a condition that you can “cure.” So, even if you use HRT to help with menopause symptoms, you’re still technically in menopause.
Think of it like people with diabetes. They use insulin to control blood sugar levels. However, they are still diabetic even when they use insulin, as the medicine just helps control the effects and symptoms of diabetes. Menopausal women use estrogen replacement therapy to increase estrogen levels so they feel better during menopause and combat their symptoms.
Understanding Menopause and What Estrogen Replacement Therapy Is
To understand why estrogen-based hormone therapy doesn’t stop menopause, it’s important to first explain exactly what menopause is. You might know that menopause is when your periods stop for 12 consecutive months and that you can no longer get pregnant after reaching menopause. You might also know a lot of the common symptoms of menopause, like hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. However, let’s explore exactly what menopause is.
Menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55. It happens when your ovaries stop producing female hormones estrogen and progesterone. This stops your menstrual cycle, so you no longer release eggs for fertilization. So, menopause is determined by your ovaries, not by the amount of estrogen and progesterone in your body. Low estrogen and progesterone levels are just a side effect of menopause.
What is Estrogen Replacement Therapy Used for in Menopause?
If estrogen replacement therapy doesn’t stop menopause, then why do so many menopausal women use it? The primary reason you might use HRT during menopause is to fight common symptoms that can interfere with your life and make it difficult to engage in your daily activities. Low estrogen levels in your body cause most of the symptoms you might associate with menopause. With estrogen replacement therapy, you can increase the amount of estrogen in your blood to relieve these symptoms. Having more estrogen in your body can also reduce several health risks associated with low estrogen levels.
Hormone Therapy Helps with Symptoms Associated with Low Estrogen
There are many symptoms you might experience during menopause, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Insomnia
- Mood changes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight gain
- Vaginal dryness
A lot of these symptoms can be attributed to declining estrogen levels in your body during menopause. Since estrogen plays important roles throughout the body, it can throw a lot of things out of whack, which explains a lot of the symptoms you might experience. However, the good news is that hormone therapy can bring your hormones back into balance to help with a lot of these symptoms so you can live your life without many of these often debilitating symptoms.
Estrogen Replacement Therapy Can Reduce Health Risks During Menopause
Another reason you might consider starting estrogen replacement therapy during menopause is that it may reduce some of the health risks of menopause while you take it. It’s important to note that most of the time doctors will only prescribe HRT if you’re experiencing symptoms that bother you, but another potential benefit is that increasing estrogen in your body may reduce risks for common conditions during menopause like osteoporosis. Of course, like other medications it can also increase your risks for some health issues, so it’s important to weigh the benefits and risks with our healthcare professionals. However, if you’re healthy and a good candidate for HRT, then you may notice some health benefits during menopause as well.
What Affects Menopause Age?
If estrogen replacement therapy doesn’t affect when menopause starts, then what does? There are many different factors that can affect the age at which you hit menopause. However, you don’t have a lot of control over it. For instance, a lot of it comes down to genetics. You’re pretty likely to reach menopause at the same age as your mother did. Lifestyle factors can also play a role. For example, women who smoke tend to hit menopause earlier than women who don’t, while women who have a high BMI might reach menopause a little later because fat can produce some estrogen.
Why You Might Not Want to Delay Menopause
With the symptoms you might experience, it’s understandable if you’re looking for a way to delay menopause. However, keep in mind that that might not be the best option. Delaying menopause past the age of 55 is also known as late onset menopause. Late onset menopause comes with many potential health consequences. For instance, it can increase your risk for breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian cancer.
Instead of looking for ways to delay menopause, talk to our providers about how you can reduce your symptoms during menopause instead. As we’ve mentioned, hormone replacement therapy can be a really effective tool for managing your menopause symptoms so they don’t interfere with your everyday life. Increasing your estrogen levels won’t stop menopause, but it can help reduce or relieve symptoms like hot flashes. We use FDA-approved bioidentical (not synthetic) hormones to treat menopause symptoms and help you feel your best.
Fight Menopause Symptoms with Our Team at HerKare
Our team at HerKare offers healthcare solutions for menopause. We work with you to find the root cause of your symptoms and provide treatment customized to you. Through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy solutions, you can enjoy symptom relief during menopause so you can live your best life. As a clinic operated by women for women, we’re dedicated to finding options that are convenient and easy for you. We listen to your concerns and then work with you to find solutions that fit your needs. Get started today – book an appointment to talk to our providers about your symptoms.
by Phoebee Johnson | Jan 24, 2023 | Hormone Replacement Therapy, Menopause, Wellness
Hormones play a critical role in the body. While you might know about estrogen and progesterone, it’s important to also know about how testosterone affects us as women. Even though it’s known as the male hormone, our ovaries actually produce both estrogen and testosterone. In fact, testosterone does many important things in our bodies. Unfortunately, women can suffer from low testosterone just like with any other hormone and it can cause a lot of problems. In these cases, testosterone replacement therapy may prove really beneficial for your health and symptoms. Keep reading to learn how testosterone therapy may help you feel your best.
If you’re suffering from menopause symptoms, make an appointment with our team today to discuss hormone care solutions.
Menopausal Women Can Benefit from Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy can help with many of your symptoms during menopause.
As we enter menopause, our natural hormone production starts to decline for sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This can cause many disruptive symptoms that can really affect your life and health. That’s why so many women begin hormone replacement therapy around the time of menopause so they can feel their best and reduce their risks for certain health conditions. Testosterone replacement therapy is one option for women suffering from low testosterone levels during menopause. Testosterone has been shown to improve many symptoms commonly associated with menopause, like low sex drive and increased belly fat. Our providers will work with you to find the right dose to help you feel great again.
How Much Testosterone is Normal for Women?
Many women don’t even know that they have testosterone because it’s so closely associated with men. However, there are normal ranges for testosterone in women. Our bodies produce about one-tenth to one-twentieth of the amount of testosterone that the male body does. This means that the normal testosterone range for women is between 15 ng/dL and 70 ng/dL. If you have less than this in your body around perimenopause and post menopause, then we may recommend testosterone replacement therapy to boost levels into that healthy range.
Symptoms Testosterone Replacement Therapy May Improve
Low testosterone in women can cause many symptoms and changes in the body. Testosterone is responsible for many things. Testosterone receptors can be found throughout our bodies, so low testosterone can really wreak havoc on our health. Some symptoms that testosterone replacement therapy may help in women include:
- Low sex drive
- Vaginal dryness
- Low bone density
- Low muscle mass
- Increased fat mass
- Fatigue
- Mood changes like depression and anxiety
Testosterone May Increase Sex Drive
Testosterone plays a really important role in sex drive for both men and women. In fact, testosterone replacement therapy is commonly used to treat hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), which is a type of sexual dysfunction many women suffer from. HSDD is a condition where you have low or no libido, so you may not experience any sexual thoughts or fantasies, feel disinterested in sex, lose interest during sex, have a hard time reaching orgasm, and may even try to avoid sex altogether. Testosterone has been found to increase libido in women. Therefore, if you’re experiencing low sex drive during menopause, then testosterone replacement therapy may be an option to improve your sex life.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Can Improve Vaginal Health
Another common symptom you might notice during menopause is vaginal dryness. This is where you have less natural lubrication. The tissues of the vagina may also begin to thin. This creates the perfect recipe for tearing and discomfort from sex or even just from everyday activities like walking. Studies have found that testosterone can help improve vaginal lubrication so it’s less dry and prone to tearing.
Testosterone Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Improve Bone Health, Muscle Health, and Fat Distribution
Another reason you might consider testosterone for menopause treatment is that it can improve your bones, muscles, and fat distribution. Testosterone affects how strong and dense your bones are, how big and strong your muscles are, and can even affect where you store fat. Low testosterone in women is associated with weaker bones, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, and more visceral (belly) fat, which is associated with a lot of metabolic issues. Increasing your testosterone to normal ranges with testosterone replacement therapy can reduce these risks. You may feel stronger, look leaner, and enjoy lower risk for issues like osteoporosis and metabolic issues tied to belly fat.
Testosterone Can Improve Mood and Energy
Many women with low testosterone levels experience debilitating fatigue and mood changes like depression and anxiety. In fact, low testosterone is often mistaken as depression or high stress because of these symptoms. However, the good news is that increasing testosterone levels to normal ranges can help you feel more energetic and may boost your mood so you can enjoy your everyday activities.
Misconceptions About Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Women
Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about testosterone therapy for women. All the misinformation out there has made a lot of people afraid of starting testosterone replacement therapy, even if their blood tests show they have deficient testosterone levels. Here are some of the myths and facts you should know about testosterone for women:
Myth: There’s No Research on Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Women
Many people believe that no one has really studied testosterone replacement therapy for women. While it’s true that there’s less research into testosterone for women than for men, there is still a lot of really good scientific studies out there, with more being conducted as we speak. That’s how we know which symptoms TRT can relieve in women. Therefore, there is good quality research into testosterone for women, and we’ll only keep learning more as more researchers focus on this treatment option.
Myth: Testosterone Only Helps with Low Libido in Women
Another common misconception is that testosterone replacement therapy is only helpful for women suffering from low sex drive. While it’s true that testosterone has been shown to have a positive effect on low libido in women, the benefits don’t stop there. Many studies have found other improvements in symptoms like those we detailed above. Remember, there are testosterone receptors throughout the body and this hormone affects practically every tissue. There is a reason that our bodies produce it, and it’s not just for a healthy sex life. It can help with many parts of our health and overall well-being.
Myth: Testosterone in Any Dose will Cause Masculinization
Many women are afraid of starting hormone replacement therapy with testosterone because they’re scared of masculinization with things like facial hair, deepening voices, and other side effects. While it’s true that this can happen if you’re given really high doses of testosterone, low doses for women with low testosterone generally don’t cause these side effects. Keep in mind that our bodies actually convert a lot of testosterone to estrogen and that we need a certain amount of testosterone in the body. Our providers will work with you to find the right dose for you so you don’t need to worry about masculinizing side effects.
Get Comprehensive Menopause Treatment at HerKare
Our providers at HerKare are here to help you feel your best and live your best life through personalized healthcare. We make sure that our healthcare solutions are convenient and accessible so you can take care of yourself and your needs. If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms, know that help is available and we’re here to provide it. Our team works to identify underlying causes of your symptoms and provide customized treatments for symptom relief. Get in touch now to schedule an appointment!
