Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy often referred to, as HRT or Postmenopausal hormone use is the topic of this particular article. Here we will discuss the process and treatment option, dealing with symptoms, the effects, impact, and consequences of menopause, and taking estrogen either alone or in combination with progesterone.

Some of the common symptoms on menopause include: hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and an inability to sleep. Estrogen is the generally recommended treatment for treatment of these symptoms. Taking this drug can help menopause sufferers achieve a much better quality of life while going through ‘the change’.

It is important however to remember that this is a natural process of aging and not a disease that simply must be treated. There are however, preventative therapies and products that help manage some of the more severe symptoms while protecting the body from the bone loss that sometimes occurs as a result of the lack of estrogen after menopause.

Quick facts about HRT and Menopause

The symptoms of menopause are actually the ‘coping mechanism’ that your body creates in order to deal with the hormonal and chemical changes taking place.

1)Estrogen use whether with or without progesterone serves to double the estrogen levels of menopausal women.

2)While hormone treatments are effective, they rarely return the levels to those of pre menopausal women. They are not designed to completely replace original hormone levels.

The hormone use is actually intended to ease the discomfort of some of the symptoms that are often associated with menopause such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, and the inability to sleep. These same hormones are also used to prevent certain medical conditions and diseases that are common for postmenopausal women. These diseases include: heart disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers.

There is a great deal of ongoing research concerning menopause, dealing effectively with the symptoms of menopause, HRT, and alternative therapies. These studies include clinical trials as well as in depth and wide ranging observational studies. Participants of these studies are sometimes given placebos instead of the hormones they think they are receiving and studied over time to see how they react to the hormones, if their symptoms subside, and to see if other diseases or conditions arise consistently. Typically there are no intervention only comparisons between those who take the hormones and those who do not.

Many of these studies concluded that the long-term health risks of HRT far outweighed the short-term benefits. If you are considering this type of treatment it is vitally important that you seriously discuss with your doctor whether or not this is the right treatment option for you, what the risks are, and if there are other options available to you that might be just as effective without the high risks. Some of the risks include risks of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots. On the other hand there were fewer hip fractures and instances of colon cancer among HRT patients so there are some benefits as well.

Eclectic sampling of findings

1)Women over the age of 65 using estrogen and progestin had double risks of developing dementia as well as a negative impact on cognitive function.

2)Women aged 50-79 experienced no significant change in vitality, mental health, general health, or sexual satisfaction as the result of using estrogen plus progestin.

3)The use of estrogen alone presents even less clear and conclusive results. As a result of the lack of clarity, studies and trials are ongoing.

4)There are indications that hormone replacement therapy increases not only the risk of cancer of the lining of the uterus but also endometrial cancer, and bleeding of the uterine. These side effects lead to the more frequent biopsies and ultrasounds for women who underwent HRT than those using placebos.

5)Increased risk of breast cancer.

6)HRT is a very effective treatment for the short-term symptoms of menopause.

7)Gal bladder disease and strokes are also more common among patients receiving HRT type treatment.

Ultimately, the choice of whether or not the short-term benefits are worth the long-term risks associated with HRT is yours. Regardless of what you decide, it is always a good idea to run your thoughts and concerns by your doctor and listen to the advice and caution he provides.

About the author:
Rob Buenaventura is a successful webmaster and publisher of MenopauseTime. He provides a website on menopause symptoms and related questions on menopause heath. For additional information on menopause hormone replacement therapy and how it can reduce uncomfortable symptoms, check out MenopauseTime.com

by Rob Buenaventura
Published: 11/22/2006

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Options for hormone replacement therapy include synthetic and bio-identical hormones, which can be administered in a variety of ways for both women and men.

Bio-identical or natural hormone replacement therapy is often simply referred to as BHRT. Hormone replacement is a widely used treatment modality and has the ability to effectively treat symptoms of menopause in women and a similar age related condition called andropause that occurs in men.

Bio-Identical hormones are biologically identical the hormones that our bodies naturally produce, thus are a great treatment option for those who have hormonal deficiencies or experience fluctuations in their hormone levels with age. BHRT can be tailored to meet most patient’s individual needs and can be administered via custom formulated creams, patches, pills, or through the placement of subcutaneous pellets.

Options for HRT
Gels or creams can be applied to various parts of the body, including the stomach, inner arms, and thighs. These types of hormones are painless and easy to use.

While gels, creams, and patches are an easy and painless option for those seeking HRT, they must be applied using a strict schedule, to avoid uncontrolled fluctuations in hormone levels. Pills also need to be taken on a precise schedule, often along with food.

Hormone pellets, placed just under the surface of the skin, offer patients a safe and effective way to maintain consistent hormone levels. This form of HRT uses the bodies cardiovascular system to help regulate the release of hormones in a stead stream, into the bloodstream. Some patients opt for treatment with pellet therapy because a single dose can last for up to 4 to 6 months. Patients using this form of HRT must be prepared to schedule a visit to their doctor for regular testing and for insertion of pellets as needed.

Men and women of all ages can benefit from treatment with naturally derived hormones. Those considering HRT should take the time necessary to learn about all their options, as well as meet with a specialist to better determine if HRT is appropriate for them.

HRT For Men
Andropause, often referred to as male menopause can very often be successfully treated with many different forms of hormone replacement therapy. Bio-identical hormones that are derived naturally are an ideal treatment for men who are experiencing the effects of andropause from age related declines in hormone levels, as natural hormones used in BHRT precisely match the hormones created by the body. The fact that bio-identical hormone preparations can be custom-tailored or "compounded" by special pharmacies, allow for treatment protocols to be specifically designed by doctors, to meet the needs of each individual patient, thus reducing the likelihood that those on a closely monitored treatment plan, will experience negative side effects while on HRT.

More traditional HRT using what are known as "synthetic" hormones are derived from animals or created in labs are indeed similar, but not biologically identical to the body’s natural hormones.

Right For You?
The best candidates for hormone replacement therapy or testosterone replacement therapy are those men who experience symptoms related to andropause, who are otherwise healthy, and have undergone a thorough physical exam prior to treatment.

Patients should expect that before being prescribed a course of HRT, doctors will require that diagnostic testing, including lab work be performed to determine what current hormone levels are. Even if a large hormonal deficiency exists, men with a previous history of certain types of cancer including prostate cancer are generally not deemed to be appropriate candidates for testosterone replacement therapy.

Those Individuals with liver, heart, or kidney disease, edema, which causes the swelling of the face, hands, feet, or legs, diabetes, or men with an enlarged prostate need to be screened and evaluated carefully by a trained HRT specialist to determine if they are suitable candidates for hormone replacement therapy.

By Andrew Dobbleu
Published: 5/11/2009

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Today, the number of women turning to herbs for menopause relief is staggering. With great concern about hormone replacement therapy in recent years, we now see women interested in avoiding chemicals and toxins, preferring a natural path.

Because there are so many women now seeking alternatives to traditional treatment for menopause, more investigation is being done to find new options in addition to those that have been used by naturalists for hundreds of years. If you are like so many women who want to find relief from night sweats, hot flashes, joint pain, insomnia, and depression the natural way, then we believe this article will expose you to some excellent options.

First, a great herb for menopause relief, especially when it comes to many of the annoying symptoms is called Dong Quai. In Chinese medicine, Dong Quai, the root of the angelica sinesis plant, helps with many menopausal symptoms. Interestingly, while many women will use this natural herb for menopause relief alone, in Chinese medicine, it is always used as a supportive herb. Regardless, many studies have been performed whereby women taking 1500 mgs of this herb three times a day had improvement in symptoms.

Another popular herb for menopause relief is red clover. Affordable and easy to find, this herb has been used in the United States for more than 100 years. Containing phytoestrogens, which are hormone-like substances, found in certain plants such as soy, red clover is wonderful for treatment of vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Typically, a woman would take between 40 and 60 mgs for about 12 weeks. The reason this is not a long-term treatment option is that red clover has been shown to stimulate cancer cells in the breast.

Next on the list of herbs for menopause relief is black cohosh. This herb is a member of the buttercup family and considered one of the most popular, natural treatment options for menopause. You can purchase black cohosh as a supplement from a health food store or in brand form such as Remifemin. When it comes to anxiety, depression, night sweats, and hot flashes, black cohosh works exceptionally well. Other herbs for menopause relief to consider include evening primrose oil, chaste tree berry, tribulus, St. John’s Wort, soy, and ginseng, which seem to ease symptoms overall.

In addition to herbs for menopause relief, you have many other options such as vitamin E. In recent years, a number of studies have been performed showing that vitamin E brings relief for miserable hot flashes. Wild yam is also an option, which can be found in many types of progesterone creams. For this, women experience fewer and less intense hot flashes, the number one complaint among menopausal women. With so much negative attention on hormone replacement therapy, you might consider herbs for menopause relief. In many cases, the natural approach is more successful in treating the body during the change of life than traditional drugs.

by: Dawn Olsen

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The latest salvo from the FDA against BIO-HRT drugs turns up the heat on the drug companies’ claims of "Safer and Better" hormone therapy treatment. So, what are they alternatives?

In a blow to certain drug makers, the FDA has sent letters warning seven pharmacy operations that the claims they make about the safety and effectiveness of their so-called "bio-identical hormone replacement therapy," or "BHRT" products are unsupported by medical evidence, and are considered false and misleading by the agency. According to the FDA, they are concerned that unfounded claims like these mislead women and health care professionals.
Bioidentical hormones are custom-mixed formulas containing various hormones that are designed to be chemically identical to those naturally made by your body. These prescription and over-the-counter products are marketed as being superior to other FDA-approved HRT regimens, and are tailored to a woman’s individual hormone needs, typically determined through saliva hormone testing. Manufacturers claim that bioidentical hormones are even safer than standard, FDA-approved hormone therapy.

The FDA states that the pharmacy operations in question improperly claim that their drugs, which contain hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and estriol (which is not a component of an FDA-approved drug and has not been proven safe and effective for any use) are superior to FDA-approved menopausal hormone therapy drugs and prevent or treat serious diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and various forms of cancer.

The FDA is concerned that the claims for safety, effectiveness, and superiority that these pharmacy operations are making mislead patients, doctors and other health care professionals. Compounded drugs are not reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, and the FDA encourages patients to use FDA-approved drugs whenever possible. The warning letters issues by the FDA state that the pharmacy operations violate federal law by making false and misleading claims about their hormone therapy drugs.

"We want to assure that Americans receive accurate information about the risks and benefits of drug therapies," said Dr. Janet Woodcock, FDA’s chief medical officer and acting director of the agency’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "In addition to today’s regulatory action, FDA is publishing an informational article for women on its consumer health information web page that provides the facts to make informed decisions about these unapproved therapies. Women taking these drugs should discuss with their health care providers the drugs’ risks and whether they’re getting effective treatment." (see http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/bioidenticals010908.html for more info on the FDA’s stance on BIO HRT.)

So, what does this mean to your menopause symptoms treatment options? The most important thing to consider is that no drug product containing estriol has been approved by FDA and the safety and effectiveness of estriol is unknown. There are, however, many natural and alternative treatments for menopausal symptoms that ARE proven safe and effective.

Herbal menopause treatment, for example is a natural and increasingly popular alternative, since it is gentle and works in harmony with the woman’s body. However, it is important that a woman taking herbs should tell her doctor because just as with prescription drugs, herbs can also present possible interactions with other drugs or herbs, thus causing side effects. Additionally, there are a number of foods and herbs that include natural plant estrogens, known as phytoestrogens, which are hormone regulators of natural progesterone and estrogen. These too can be very beneficial in the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

"Menopause Formula" is herbal-based and an all-natural nutritional supplement that contains phytoestrogens. Soy products also contain phytoestrogens and may be helpful in reducing hot flashes and osteoporosis, along with treatment of vaginal dryness. It is important to remember that the effects of soy protein, which is found in whole foods, soy protein isolates, and products containing isoflavone isolates, may not all be the same. Some other alternatives for herbal menopause treatment include black cohosh, which relieves menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, and chaste tree, which has a calming and soothing effect along with noted relief of headaches and tenderness of the breasts.

Wild yam is yet another option to herbal menopause treatment, containing compounds that are similar to progesterone and very helpful in relaxing muscle spasms while also reducing inflammation associated with menopause-related symptoms. Last but not least is rosemary. This particular herb is excellent for treating headaches and circulatory problems, while also fighting free radicals in the body and relaxing the stomach for better digestion. These and other natural alternatives have not been scientifically proven but have been used by many healthy women for years. Therefore, for the woman tired of taking prescription medication or just dealing with the symptoms of menopause, these and other natural remedies are highly recommended.

By Amber Snow Published: 2/9/2008

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Women face changes in their hormone levels throughout life, from the drastic changes in puberty to the decline in hormone levels in perimenopause. Additionally, each month hormone levels wax and wane during the menstrual cycle with a noticeable impact.

It is no secret that all women undergo dramatic hormone changes that range from puberty to menopause. These changes in hormone levels can often have negative effects on the women who experience them, causing mood swings and physical ailments. Therefore, many women are demanding natural, as opposed to chemical, treatments as a solution that will help them avoid these changes.

Estrogen hormone replacement therapy (or HRT) was once thought to be the fountain of youth and powerful drugs were marketed with glowing promises of being ‘forever female’. They were effective in relieving PMS and menopause symptoms as well as helping to avoid osteoporosis, but with time we learned they came with a price.

Female reproductive system cancers can be a great fear for all women, and we know that about one in ten will face breast cancer alone in a lifetime. Those artificial hormone replacement therapy regimens made women feel better, but at the same time they were significantly increasing their cancer risk. Many physicians and patients chose to stop HRT and deal with symptoms is other, safer ways.

Hormone replacement therapy was one solution, but for centuries before it existed, women had found natural substances that work to treat their discomforts. Asian women, for example, have only 10%-20% as many hot flashes as Western women do, and that is almost certainly related to a high soy bean intake. Soy isoflavones mimic the effects of estrogen naturally, and are one of the alternatives to HRT.

Herbs used as traditional medicine by Native American women have also proven effective. Black cohosh reduced PMS-related complaints such as bloating and cramps, while red clover has been found to reduce the number and strength of hot flashes. Natural HRT alternative care has found a role for each of these herbs.

Natural wild yam extract was among the first substances studied by researchers trying to develop the first oral birth control pills. The chemicals in the wild yam act as natural estrogen. It makes sense then that women seeking natural, herbal hormone replacement therapy would return to the wild yam and use it.

As well, there are many natural compounds and extract that are diuretics to reduce fluid retention and spasms that are associated with cramping. The most effective supplements contain mixtures of natural extracts that will work together for the most effective relief. Plant-based estrogen sources will work as well for some women as prescription medications with less side effects and risk. You should always discuss your options with your doctor there are always effective alternatives to hormone replacement therapy.

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A natural hormone supplement is a hormone that is identical to what occurs naturally in the body. Most prescription drugs are not the same as a natural hormone supplement. Why?

In the USA since the late 1800′s, U.S. laws allow medicines to be patented only if they are not naturally occurring substances. If a drug company discovers a natural substance that can be used medically, anyone else can also use/make/sell that substance. So for business purposes, what happens is that the pharmaceutical companies create synthetic hormones that are intentionally different from a natural hormone supplement. Examples are Premarin, Prempro and Provera – these synthetic drugs are different in their molecular structure from the estrogens and progesterone found in the human body.

And the problem with synthetic drugs is – since they are different from what occurs naturally in the human body, the body treats them differently and the result is often harmful side effects. Studies such as the Women’s Health Initiative have concluded that synthetic hormone replacement therapy risks may exceed the benefits!

For women, a natural hormone supplement program will use natural natural progesterone and/or natural estrogen. Both hormones are crucial for good health in women. In a normal menstrual cycle, estrogen is the hormone produced for the first 10-12 days of the cycle. Ovulation signals the body to produce progesterone that continues for the next 12 days or so. If there’s no pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels drop at about day 28 and menstruation begins. However, if there is no ovulation, progesterone is not produced that cycle. This happens frequently today for women in their thirties and forties – no ovulation and no progesterone, likely resulting in symptoms of hormone imbalance.

If the woman has had a hysterectomy, surgical menopause means the body produces little or no progesterone, creating hormone imbalance. And in postmenopausal women, the production of progesterone ceases as ovulation no longer occurs. However, even after menopause, estrogen production will still be 40 to 60 percent of what it once was.

For men, natural hormone supplement therapy uses natural testosterone, not one of the synthetic testosterone drugs. Testosterone replacement therapy requires the supervision of a physician in the USA.

Using a safer natural hormone supplement such as natural progesterone or natural estrogen is recommended by numerous physicians since these hormones are identical to what occurs in the body, having few or no side effects like the synthetic drugs have. There are reliable online sources of natural hormones. Learn as much as you can about when to use natural hormone supplements to help stay strong, energized, healthy and free from the many symptoms associated with growing old prematurely.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

By: David Buster

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Find information and sources of natural progesterone at www.safemenopausesolutions.com/naturalprogesterone.html and men’s low testosterone information at www.safemenopausesolutions.com/low-testosterone.html – David Buster is VP of InfoSearch Publishing & webmaster of www.safemenopausesolutions.com – a natural health website.

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Andropause (aka male menopause) may not be a common discussion topic, but it should be. All men experience the symptoms of Andropause to some extent, especially after the age of 40. So what is andropause, and why should you ask your doctor about it?

What is Andropause?
Andropause is caused by low testosterone levels in men. Testosterone levels reach a peak when men are around 15 to 18 years old, and then begin to decline after age 25 – 27. Around the age of 35, most men notice the symptoms of andropause to some extent.

Although andropause is caused by the natural decline of hormone levels in men, factors such as obesity, cancer, heart and lung diseases, certain medications, stress, and depression may accelerate the onset of andropause. Good news though, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and following an optimal diet can help you better manage the symptoms of andropause. Also, make sure to get your testosterone levels checked by your doctor on an annual basis. Many men are diagnosed with depression without having their testosterone levels checked to see if they have andropause.

What are the top symptoms of andropause?
The top male menopause symptoms are irritability, decreased sex drive, muscle loss, depression, and decreased bone density. Other symptoms include sleep problems, weight gain around the middle, memory loss, erectile dysfunction, and night sweats. Fortunately, andropause treatment is available. Your doctor can test your testosterone levels and provide testosterone treatment through male hormone replacement therapy.
Male hormone therapy is effective at alleviating the symptoms of andropause. Male hormone treatment can improve a man’s sense of well-being and increase male sex drive, muscle mass, strength, and. Male hormone therapy also reduces mood fluctuations, irritability, and depression. It has been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, and therapy can prevent osteoporosis, optimize bone density, and improve mental acuity.

Male hormone replacement therapy is a safe treatment for low testosterone levels . It has been used for over 60 years, and the most recent research confirms, it is a safe and effective treatment if done correctly. Before receiving treatment, you must have a physical exam and a consultation with a qualified physician. Blood tests will be ordered to measure hormone levels and including a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test to check the health of the prostate. These pre-cautionary procedures help ensure proper, safe treatment.

The primary hormones used to treat andropause are testosterone, thyroid, human growth hormone and DHEA (which helps with immune function, increasing energy levels, and reducing depression).

Testosterone:
Testosterone is responsible for the normal growth and development of sex organs and normal levels of testosterone contribute to energy, sexual function, mood, and libido.

Thyroid:
Thyroid is a systemic hormone having a significant impact on overall health including metabolism, energy, well being, hair loss, immune system, memory, heart health, to name only a few.

Human Growth Hormone:
Human growth hormone (HGH) controls muscle and bone growth and lowers the amount of fat in the body. HGH is also known for its anti aging properties and its ability to increase calcium retention, protein synthesis, and muscle mass.

DHEA:
DHEA is secreted by the adrenal gland and several studies suggest that DHEA has many therapeutic properties. Principle among those is 1) support to the immune system helping to prevent everything from the common cold to cancer and 2) a balance to cotisol secreted by the body under stress and highly destructive to body cell when present in excess.

Seeking Help for Andropause and Male Menopause:
It is estimated that four out of five American men over the age of 40 have low testosterone, and 99% men over the age of 60 have low testosterone. However, only 5% are currently being treated. Testosterone is responsible for the muscle development and contributes to energy, mood, and libido. Fortunately, testosterone deficiency can easily be treated.

Testosterone replacement can dramatically change how you feel on a daily basis, improve energy and mood, reduce depression and irritability, and help you maintain your muscle strength, increase libido, and reduce belly fat tissue. If you suspect you have andropause, or are beginning to notice andropause symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting your testosterone levels checked. Before you start a treatment program, do your research to make sure the low testosterone treatment program that you are being prescribed is the best for you.

By: Jim Michels

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Jim Michels is an expert about male anti aging. He helps men with male menopause symptoms receive male hormone replacement therapy to restore energy and youth.

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So you hit menopause and your hormones are all over place, and your weight is all over the place, and you know that you need menopause hormone replacement therapy, and you know that your weight is really an issue; but you can’t tackle both at the same time because as stated prior, you are all over the place. Well, here is some news to bring down to earth again. If you are hormonally unbalanced, your weight is going to reflect that. Your metabolism and your hormonal chemistry go hand in hand. Reaching menopause does not mean you have to gain weight and be uncomfortable with yourself for the rest of your life. Menopause just means you have to adjust things in your life to live as healthily as possible.

Women are not the only ones faced with the need for hormone replacement therapy. As men age their bodies no longer produce testosterone like they once did. When this happens problems with weight and energy ensue. Just as with women, with the right diet, exercise, and the addition of HCG, the hormonal imbalance will shift and the weight will seemingly melt away. Body Solutions Rx is able to address the unique influences that lifestyle, environment, and genetic factors have on your health and well being. Once they take in the factors of your life and figure out if there are other health issues you might unknowingly have, you will be well on your way to health and vigor that you dream of.

For those of you that prefer to homeopathy to western medicine, recently Body Solutions Rx developed and introduced an oral HCG alternative. What this means to you is that you can enjoy the benefits of HCG weight loss without the need of vials and needles. Better still is that it is naturopathic, so there is no need for a prescription, doctors visit, or a trip to the pharmacy.

Every Body Solutions Rx program is inclusive of a new exercise and health program, designed for you, nutritional and custom dietetics, personal integrated medical services, and counseling as needed, to support the metabolic weight loss program. Once you start your new program you will see results faster than you thought possible, and the end result will be what you hoped for.

By: Tegan Dawn

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Hi, I am Tegan Dawn. I am always interested in holistic way to achieve maximum health and happiness. Hormonal replacement therapy has helped me in the past, it could help you. For those of you that can’t stand the idea of injections, you should try the oral hcg alternative. Just as effective and better because there are no injections or need for a prescription.

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Alternatives For Hormone Replacement Therapy

Do alternatives for hormone replacement therapy exist? Yes! Available alternatives for hormone replacement therapy are of two primary forms – synthetic therapy and natural hormone replacement therapy.

The synthetic hormone replacement therapy drugs are not the same as natural hormones that occur in the body. Since substances occurring naturally cannot be patented, drug companies alter the molecular structure and create new substances that are patentable and therefore protected for business purposes. Examples are Premarin, Prempro and Provera – these synthetic drugs are different in their molecular structure from the estrogens and progesterone found in the human body.

But alternatives for hormone replacement therapy using synthetic drugs may not treat your symptoms of menopause safely! And the problem with synthetic drugs is – since they are different from what occurs naturally in the human body, the body treats them differently, and the result is often harmful side effects. Synthetic hormone replacement therapy risks may exceed the benefits based on numerous clinical trials such as the Women’s Health Initiative studies!

On the other hand, natural alternatives for hormone replacement therapy use natural estrogen and/or natural progesterone hormones. Natural hormones are also referred to as bioidentical hormones. Using safer natural alternatives for hormone replacement therapy is recommended by numerous physicians since the body is able to receive, use and eliminate the natural hormones as needed. Most women may not need synthetic drugs with related side effects to regain health and eliminate symptoms of hormone imbalance.

The two primary hormones for a woman are estrogen and progesterone. Both are needed to function normally and for good health. In a healthy woman and normal menstrual cycle, estrogen is the main hormone produced for the first 10-12 days following the previous menstrual flow. With ovulation, the body begins producing progesterone that continues for the next 12 days or so. If pregnancy does not occur, estrogen and progesterone levels will drop at around day 28 and menstruation begins. However, if there is no ovulation, progesterone will not be produced by the body that cycle. This event is called an annovulatory cycle, and it is happens frequently today for women in their thirties and forties – no ovulation and no progesterone.

What this means is the woman will be deficient in progesterone with an excess of estrogen, which will likely result in symptoms of hormone imbalance. Progesterone balances or opposes many actions of estrogen. Without suitable progesterone in the body, symptoms of hormone imbalance will likely be experienced. The symptoms of hormone imbalance can be signs that your body isn’t getting the support it needs.

If the woman has had a hysterectomy, surgical menopause means the body produces little or no progesterone, creating hormone imbalance. And in postmenopausal women, the production of progesterone ceases as ovulation no longer happens. However, estrogen production will still be 40 to 60 percent of what it once was even after menopause.

How does a woman know more about appropriate natural alternatives for hormone replacement therapy? One way is to work with a naturopathic doctor who is schooled and trained in both conventional medicine and natural alternative medicine. If you are currently on synthetic HRT and want to change to natural HRT, you should consult with doctors experienced in the use of natural hormone replacement therapy. Naturopathic physicians are medical doctors that work to restore and support the body’s systems by using medicines and techniques that are in harmony with natural body processes. A naturopathic physician will prefer treatments which keep harmful side effects risks at a minimum.

Another way is to take the online hormone health test provided by a leading women’s health clinic. The online test takes just a few minutes and is free. Find out more about your health, symptoms, what the symptoms may be telling you and what to do about it based on your answers to important questions. And read more about hormone imbalance and physician-recommended natural alternatives for hormone replacement therapy.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

By: Olinda Rola

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Read more about natural progesterone at www.safemenopausesolutions.com/naturalprogesterone.html as well as estrogen alternatives for hormone replacement therapy. Olinda Rola is President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of www.safemenopausesolutions.com which is a website of natural health articles and resources.

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