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Menopause Hormone Treatments

Menopause marks the point in a woman's life when she stops ovulating. Hormone production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone have already slowed down in the perimenopausal stage, which usually occurs during your 40s. Because of this fluctuation of hormones, a host of problems may arise such as hot flashes, weight gain and headaches. Menopausal hormone therapy allows women to manage the symptoms of menopause. There are two types of hormone therapy available: single-hormone and combination-hormone therapy.

  1. Single-Hormone Therapy

    • Single-hormone therapy typically includes estrogen replacement. Your body produces three types of estrogen: estriol, estradiol and estrone. Estriol is at its highest during pregnancy and is helpful in preventing breast cancer. Estradiol is produced by the ovaries and is the most dominant estrogen hormone. Estrone is produced from estradiol and is stored in the body's fatty tissues. Women who have had a hysterectomy can usually take estrogen alone without progesterone replacement. Your doctor may prescribe pills, patches, gels or creams, and popular brands include Alora, Estace and FemPatch.

    Combination-Hormone Therapy

    • Combination-hormone therapy uses both estrogen and progesterone. Women who still have their uterus, and are approaching or have reached menopause are typically prescribed this treatment. Generally, progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, is used. You and your doctor will discuss the right combination of hormones based on the results of blood tests that indicate your levels of estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. If any of these levels are low, your hormone-replacement medication should provide you with the correct dose.

    Natural Alternatives

    • There are various natural alternatives available to help you manage fluctuating or decreasing hormone levels. Incorporating soy products into your diet can help with hot flashes; soy contains phytoestrogens, which are nutrients similar to the estrogen produced by the body. Certain dietary supplements---including dong quai, wild yam and valerian root---also contain phytoestrogens. Bioidentical hormone creams can be purchased over-the-counter at certain health food stores. The hormones in these creams are chemically identical to the ones that your body produces. Buy only those products that have been investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Try out different options for managing menopausal symptoms and feeling like your "old" self again.

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