The Basics Of Estrogen Replacement Therapy

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT or ET) is a common treatment for women suffering moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. Such symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. There are four basic methods to receive estrogen therapy. These include pill/tablets, patches, vaginal ring or skin cream/gel. Each method delivers it's own level of estrogen to the user. Below a general description of each method will be provided.

The Four Methods of Estrogen Therapy Treatment

• Pills or tablets are provided through prescription and offer specific doses set up by your physician.
• Patches are small, discreet and effective.
• Vaginal rings are inserted into the vagina and need to be replaced every three months, varying by prescription.
• Skin creams or gels can either be inserted into the vagina to restore muscle tone and moisture. Other creams such as Hot Flash Freedom can be applied to the wrists, inner arm or chest for estrogen absorption.

Side-Effects

Each method of ET has been effective for a large number of women, but with all medications each carries a side effect or risk. The patch for example cannot be in direct sunlight or near a large heat source such as a tanning bed or electric blanket. The heat effects the dosage levels absorbed. You may receive one large dose of estrogen, then a smaller dose the next. It is important to follow all guidelines when taking ET. Some of the side effects of estrogen therapy include: headaches, nausea, vaginal discharge, weight gain, breast tenderness and fluid retention.

Risks

As was mentioned earlier there are also risks that are associated with Estrogen therapy. Some of these risks include: stroke, blood clots, endometral cancer (uterine), gallstones and ovarian cancer (this is rare). With risks factors and side effects known it is always advised to consult your physician prior to making any decisions about beginning estrogen replacement therapy.

Difference Between HRT and ERT

If you were woman who has not had her uterus surgically removed then you would opt for HRT or HT, which are hormone replacement therapies. The difference between ET and HT is that ET is only replacing estrogen. HT on the other hand replaces estrogen and progesterone that protects the lining of the uterus from specific cancers. Side effects of HRT or HT include chronic liver disease, breast cancer history, uterus cancer history and blood clots. Theses side effects make many women leery and look for natural options such as herbal remedies using Hawthorne flower and black cohosh. These herbs have bee n used by persons all over the world for centuries. These to have their own side effects such as an increase in blood pressure and effecting iron levels in the blood. All methods of estrogen replacement therapy should be planned between you and your physician for the safety and effectiveness you need. It may make you more comfortable as well as better prepared for you consultation if you take time to research prior to seeing your doctor.

The study and knowledge of menopause and symptom relief therapies is more abundant than ever before. Women are ready to learn and understand about their bodies and the changes that they are going through. You can find information on signs of early menopause at your local library or by searching online. You'll find several websites that provide information about menopause itself, treatment and support groups. You are not alone and you shouldn't feel alone. Women need to be strong for themselves and each other. This is a battle that our grandmothers, mothers, you and I, and eventually our daughters will face. It is simple a process in life that we should not fear but embrace with knowledge and understanding.