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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is the use of external compounds to help resolve the symptoms related to various hormonal imbalances. The hormones used are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. This therapy is most commonly used by women experiencing (peri)menopausal symptoms.
Potential Benefits of HRT
Improved bone health – Estrogen and progesterone may help maintain bone mass and prevent bone loss that occurs with aging to decrease the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.o Increased energy – Hormones affect many metabolic processes in the body and imbalances that can cause fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep and lethargy. Supporting these hormones may improve your energy, mental clarity, alertness and sleep patterns.
Reduced night sweats and hot flashes – Hot flashes and night sweats are some of the most commonly experienced symptoms of hormonal fluctuations. Reducing these symptoms increases quality of life for many women.
Improved libido and reduced vaginal dryness – Estrogen is responsible for vaginal lubrication and maintaining a healthy sex drive. Many women experience sexual dysfunction as a result of these hormones declining during menopause and supporting these hormone levels can be helpful for managing these symptoms.
How is HRT prescribed?
Hormone Replacement Therapy includes various forms and doses of estrogen and progesterone. They are typically dispensed in the form of creams, patches, oral pills or vaginal suppositories depending on the symptoms you are experiencing and your health concerns.
In Ontario, MDs, Naturopathic Doctors and Nurse Practitioners can prescribe hormones. NDs must carry the Ontario Pharmaceutical Prescribing Standard to signify the required additional training in pharmaceuticals in order to prescribe these and other restricted substances.
What testing is required to be eligible for HRT?
In order to safely recommend hormone replacement therapy, we need to assess your current health status. Not everyone is eligible for hormone therapy and it’s important for you to understand the benefits and risks associated with this treatment and how they apply to you as an individual. This usually involves bloodwork that can be requisitioned by your MD, ND or NP and a detailed discussion of how those values translate to your particular risks so you can make a truly informed choice about your treatment plan.
Is HRT the only way to support my hormones?
Absolutely not! There are many other options if you don’t feel like hormone therapy is right for you. Botanical medicine, acupuncture, diet modification and hydrotherapy can all be helpful in regulating your hormones and improving the symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations.