Hormone Therapy for Women: Benefits, Risks, and What to Expect

As women age, the onset of menopausal symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. Hormone therapy for women, a proven treatment, is designed to alleviate these symptoms and restore hormonal balance, thereby supporting overall health.

But how does hormone therapy work, and is it right for you? Let us explore the different types of hormone therapy, its benefits, risks, and the latest scientific research behind it.

Hormone therapy (HT), also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), involves supplementing the body with hormones that naturally decline with age—primarily estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone. This therapy is commonly used to manage menopausal symptoms, balance hormones in perimenopause and postmenopausal, and address other health concerns related to aging.

There are two primary types of hormone therapy:

• Estrogen Therapy (ET): Prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy, as estrogen alone can effectively relieve menopausal symptoms. Of note, progesterone is also given at times for those with a total hysterectomy, as there are many benefits, including neuroprotective effects.
• Combined Estrogen-Progesterone Therapy (EPT): Used for women who still have their uterus to prevent the risk of endometrial cancer associated with estrogen-only therapy.

Hormone therapy is available in multiple forms, including pills, patches, creams, gels, and pellets, allowing women to choose the method that best fits their lifestyle and medical needs.

Hormone therapy is one of the most effective treatments for menopausal and age-related hormone deficiencies. Here is how it can improve women’s health:

1. Relieves Menopausal Symptoms 
   • Reduces hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
   • Improves sleep quality
   • Supports mood stability and reduces irritability (Santoro et al., 2021)
2. Protects Bone Health 
   • Estrogen helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures (Compston et al., 2019)
3. Supports Heart Health 
   • Research suggests that hormone therapy may help reduce the risk of heart disease when started early in menopause (Hodis & Mack, 2020).
4. Improves Cognitive Function 
   • Some studies indicate that early hormone therapy may support brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s (Zhao et al., 2022).
5. Enhances Sexual Health 
   • Hormone therapy improves vaginal lubrication and elasticity, reducing discomfort during intercourse.
   • Some women benefit from testosterone therapy for libido and energy levels (Davis et al., 2019).

While hormone therapy provides significant benefits, it is essential to weigh the potential risks. Factors such as age, personal medical history, and the type of therapy used can influence the safety of hormone therapy.

• Increased Risk of Blood Clots and Stroke: Women who start HRT later in life (after age 60) may have a slightly increased risk of blood clots and stroke, particularly with oral estrogen (Manson et al., 2017).
• Breast Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest that long-term combined hormone therapy (estrogen + progesterone) may increase the risk of breast cancer. However, risks may depend on the duration and dosage (Chlebowski et al., 2020).
• Endometrial Cancer Risk: Estrogen therapy alone can increase the risk of endometrial cancer in women with a uterus, which is why progesterone is added to balance this effect.

For many women, the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the risks, especially when treatment is started within 10 years of menopause. Discussing your personal risk factors with a functional medicine provider who can help tailor your therapy to your unique health needs is important.

Hormone therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The decision to use HRT should be based on your symptoms, medical history, and overall health goals. Ideal candidates for hormone therapy include:

• Women experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms
• Women at risk for osteoporosis or cardiovascular disease
• Women suffering from hormonal imbalances affecting mood, metabolism, and energy levels

On the other hand, women with a history of breast cancer, stroke, or blood clots may need alternative treatments to manage symptoms.

At AZENA Health and Longevity, we understand that each woman's hormonal health is unique. That is why we offer a personalized hormone therapy approach that focuses on balancing hormones naturally and safely.

• • Comprehensive Hormone Testing: We assess your hormone levels through advanced diagnostic testing.
  • Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT): We use hormones that your body naturally produces for optimal safety and effectiveness.
  • Peptides and Bioregulators: Targeted therapies for hormone function and cellular health.
  • Inflammation Reduction: Addressing underlying inflammation to support long-term hormone balance.

Don't let menopause or hormonal imbalances control your life. Hormone therapy, when personalized and science-backed, can be a powerful tool to optimize your health, improve your quality of life, and help you feel your best at every stage of aging.

If you are ready to explore hormone therapy, AZENA Health and Longevity is here to guide you. Please schedule a consultation today to learn how we can create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

Contact azena.life to start your journey to balanced hormones and better health.