How Portland area patients can use Hormone Replacement Therapy to get through menopause

Menopause is a journey all women take at some point in their lives. This is the time when the ovaries stop producing eggs for reproduction and begin to make less estrogen. This typically occurs somewhere between the ages of 40 and 50. During this transition, many women have both short-term and long-term symptoms, which may include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Changes in the menstrual cycle
• Depression and anxiety
• Loss of libido (sex drive)
• Headaches and irritability
• Increased risk for osteoporosis
• Physical changes in the genital area

Many women turn to hormone replacement therapy to get through the changes in the body during this time. Hormone replacement therapy, also referred to as HRT addresses the imbalance of hormones in the body during this transition. This is done by testing with hormone blood tests to confirm patients are going through this change and to determine the levels of hormones for the appropriate treatment.

Hormone replacement therapy balances the progesterone and estrogen levels in the body to reduce the symptoms of menopause and make patients more comfortable during this transition. The hormones can be delivered with many methods including oral medications and patches. Patients can speak with Dr. Adam Maddox of Portland’s Thrive to determine the best method of administration for their lifestyle and personal preferences.

There are many benefits to participating in hormone replacement therapy. Other than improving the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and vaginal changes, it can also improve mood and sleep while reducing aches and pains in the joints and one’s overall risk for developing osteoporosis. Studies are still being conducted to determine if hormone replacement therapy can also reduce one’s risk for cardiovascular disease and other medical conditions that may arise in the later years.

Dr. Adam Maddox helps patients with menopause and andropause transitions using hormone replacement therapy and can work with individuals in finding out if this can help. Contact his practice today and educate yourself on hormone replacement therapy and the benefits it can provide for you and your body.