Many people think that estrogen is a woman’s hormone, and while it is true that estrogen levels are much higher in women than in men, men do still need the hormone. Estrogen is important for many systems in the body including reproductive and orthopedic systems. As we age, all of our hormone levels undergo changes, and if they drop too low especially in women, your doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy to counteract the effects. There are several signs that your estrogen may be too low, and your doctor will likely ask if you are experiencing things like irregular periods, pain during sex, frequent urinary tract infections, trouble concentrating, and hot flashes.
The Benefits of Trying Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
- Bone Protection. Women are at a much higher risk than men for osteoporosis, and after menopause when the estrogen levels plummet, the risk increases significantly. There are numerous medications to combat the bone loss associated with osteoporosis, but some women are unable to tolerate the side effects, or the drugs may be contraindicated due to other needed medication. For those women, hormone replacement therapy is an option.
- Ovary Protection. The ovaries are actually where estrogen is produced within the female body. If the ovaries are affected either by disease or another medical condition and no longer produce estrogen, it may be necessary to start hormone replacement therapy to maintain proper levels within the body. If your ovaries have been removed in a surgical procedure like a hysterectomy, estrogen treatment should be discussed.
- Vaginal Protection. Decreasing estrogen levels can lead to several vaginal issues due to changing the body’s natural pH. Prescribed hormones can combat common issues like vaginal dryness, and also more complex issues like vulvar atrophy or atrophic vaginitis.
- Menopause Protection. While hormone replacement therapy can’t eliminate the symptoms of menopause entirely, it can lessen them to a large degree. Estrogen levels within the female body start rising during puberty and peak during her 20s and 30s, what is commonly referred to as the childbearing years. As a woman goes through menopause, the estrogen levels sharply decline causing many unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, and moodiness. Supplemental estrogen treatments help ease the symptoms and make it much easier for the woman to function in her day to day life.
company offers hormone therapy treatment in the Manhattan Beach area. Our doctors are happy to discuss your symptoms and find the right treatment for you.
