The risks of hormone replacement therapy and menopause supplements


Home Hot Flashes Hormone Replace Therapy Menopause Symptoms 34 Menopause Symptoms Male Menopause Perimenopause Resources Articles Articles pg2 Contact Us Disclaimer Sitemap

The risks of hormone replacement therapy and menopause supplements

Up until 2002, hormone replacement therapy was common treatment for menopause symptoms. It proved highly effective at relieving serve hot flashes and vaginal hot flashes and well as help keep other symptoms under control. A clinical trial performed by the Women's Health Initiative reported that participating in hormone replacement therapy as one went through menopause actually posed serious health risks to the patient. Although it is believed that the best treatment for severe menopause symptoms is hormone replacement therapy, there are other menopause supplements that need to be considered that can also be effective.

What are the risks?

The risks associated for women who were taking a combination of estrogen and progestin, a popular hormone therapy approach included heart disease, strokes, blood clots, dementia and breast cancer. The study also found that taking this form of menopause supplement didn't really improve a woman's quality of life especially if she didn't experience severe symptoms.

The study did prove that there are some benefits of hormone replacement therapy. It indicated there was a decreased risk of hip fractures mainly related to osteoporosis as well as a decreased risk of colorectal cancer. It is important that before taking any sort of menopause supplements, you consult your doctor and understand all the risks associated with the supplements. Even natural products may cause some sort of side effect or reaction.

The risks associated with short term use of hormone replacement therapy are quite low. If you suffer from severe hot flashes, vaginal discomfort or osteoporosis, this may well be the best alternative for you.

What should you do if you are taking hormone replacement therapy now?

The first thing you need to do is meet with your doctor and review your case and menopause symptoms. If they are mild or moderate, stopping hormone replacement therapy may be the right decision. Investigating other menopause supplements such as herbal treatments may be an option. If you decide to continue with this form of treatment, take the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to relieve or eliminate symptoms of menopause.

Are there women who should never use hormone replacement therapy?

The answer is YES! If you are a breast cancer survivor or have had blood clots in the past, it is highly recommended that you avoid hormone replacement therapy. Also, women with a high risk of heart disease or stokes should also avoid it.

What are the best alternatives to hormone replacement therapy?

Some of your menopause symptoms may be more severe because of your current lifestyle. Some helpful hints for treating menopause symptoms include:

Change your diet to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoid hot, spice foods.
Limit or eliminate alcohol and caffeine.
Stop smoking.
Get plenty of rest. Be sure to turn the heat down before you go to bed.
Exercise daily - this may be the most important thing you can do to help yourself. A brisk walk everyday is exactly what you need to help feeling fit and keep those menopause symptoms at bay. Other forms of exercise are great too including running, hiking, biking, swimming, weight lifting and skiing.

What menopause supplements will help?

Taking certain vitamins and minerals can act as positive menopause supplements. Calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, B, C, and D will also help keep your bones strong as well as other organs. Again speak to your doctor before taking anything for your menopause symptoms. There are more articles below to help you.

The risks of hormone replacement therapy and menopause supplements

Related Articles on Menopause Supplements