Once women reach the menopausal stage, they begin to notice several changes and will start to experience symptoms such as fatigue, hot flashes, and foggy thinking. There are several ways of managing these symptoms – the most common being hormone replacement therapy (HRT). If you are thinking of trying HRT to relieve menopausal symptoms, you should seek professional help from a board-certified doctor. For those living in and around Louisiana, you should book a consultation with Dr. Patricia Nevils, an expert providing hormone replacement therapy in Lafayette.
While it’s true that information is power, there are times when too much information can be considered ‘dangerous.’ This statement is particularly true concerning medical issues. For instance, menopause has always been a subject of hot debates, especially when it comes to deciding the best options for managing symptoms.
If you look up HRT on the internet, you will notice that there’s a lot of contradicting information. That is why I collected data from health experts so you won’t have to worry if your decision to undergo HRT was a mistake. Keep reading to see some of the myths and facts about HRT.
Myth: HRT is only for women
Fact: This is entirely false. While it is true that HRT is mainly associated with women, men can also benefit from it. Once men reach 30, they start to experience hormonal imbalance. The most common issue is a drop in testosterone levels. This imbalance can cause low libido as well as weight gain. HRT can, therefore, help to restore the testosterone and to relieve the symptoms.
Myth: Bioidentical hormones are synthetically made
Fact: Bioidentical hormones are human-made hormones sourced from animals and plants. They are made to match our bodies’ hormones, hence the name “natural.”
Myth: HRT is illegal
Fact: HRT is FDA-approved, meaning it has been tested and regulated. However, you should note that there is a form of HRT known as compounded Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (cBHRT). Although not illegal, cBHRT is untested. Pharmacists combine different constituents, which creates a potential risk of overdose or contamination.
Myth: Synthetic hormones are more effective than traditional HRT
Fact: Synthetic hormones are part of cBHRT, which does not use natural sources, unlike the FDA-approved HRT. Unfortunately, this myth supporting synthetic hormones has spread primarily due to increasing support of cBHRT by celebrities claiming that it’s highly efficient.
Myth: HRT delays andropause and menopause
Fact: HRT only reduces the symptoms of andropause and menopause. If you suddenly stop taking HRT medication, you will experience symptoms mimicking withdrawal. That is why you must seek a doctor’s advice before quitting HRT.
Myth: HRT is only useful for five years
Fact: There’s no set timeline for taking HRT. Only an expert in integrated medicine can provide advice when you should stop using HRT. This myth is perhaps because there’s little research regarding the side effects of HRT.
Also, each HRT method is different, and everyone reacts differently to this treatment; that’s why there is no one-size-fits-all strategy.
Myth: HRT is for severe symptoms
Fact: Most women have made a mistake of waiting until menopausal symptoms become intolerable before seeking help. You should know that starting HRT early actually minimizes the risk of osteoporosis.
Only an expert can give the right advice and treatment option. Also, you shouldn’t wait for your symptoms to get worse for you to see a doctor. Dr. Nevils of Vibrant Women Health Center recommends going for regular wellness exams for early detection and preventing future complications.