Hormone Replacement Therapy

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Hormone Replacement Therapy

Menopause, a natural part of aging, is defined as the end of menstrual cycles. Both menopause and the transition leading up to it (perimenopause) affect each woman differently and can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes, and decreased libido. For many women, symptoms are mild, but for others they can disrupt daily life. Because these symptoms are driven by hormonal changes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help relieve them.

Menopause occurs on average at age 51, although it may occur as early as 35 or as late as 57. Perimenopause, the years in which hormone levels begin to cause symptoms and cycle changes, may begin 8-15 years before menopause. Symptoms that may occur beginning in perimenopause and appear throughout menopause include the following:

Irregular menstrual cycles
Weight gain
Mood fluctuations
Fatigue
Decreased libido
Sweating
Hot flashes
Pain during sex and vaginal dryness

Women who experience severe symptoms may benefit from customized hormone replacement therapy (HRT). There are different types of HRT, and they may be taken in the form of pills, skin patches, vaginal creams, gels, and rings.

Taking HRT has some risks. For some women, hormone therapy may increase their chances of getting blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, and gallbladder disease. Before prescribing HRT, a doctor assesses a patient’s family history, general medical history, and physical condition, as well as testing hormone levels. Once HRT is prescribed, your doctor will monitor your changing needs and adjust dosages regularly.

For women who are good candidates for HRT, it can improve quality of life by relieving symptoms and may also help prevent bone loss.

Why choose UAB Medicine

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers complete women’s healthcare, delivered by physicians and nurses dedicated to excellence. Our physicians are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. Our program is consistently ranked among the best of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology’s services range from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complex gynecological concerns. Because UAB Medicine is a major center for research, patients may have access to promising new techniques and treatments not available at other medical centers. Our physicians are here for you at every stage of life, from your first gynecological exam to delivering your baby and helping guide you through menopause.

UAB Medicine’s Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility is staffed by nationally recognized physicians with years of experience in diagnosing and treating all types of infertility. We use a team approach that includes a reproductive endocrinologist, a urologist, genetic counselors, specialized nurses, and laboratory scientists.

A range of fertility treatments are available, including a type of surgery known as corrective microsurgery. For conditions that cannot be treated, procedures such as intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used to help a couple get pregnant.

Our fertility experts will determine a treatment plan that is best suited for each individual patient. As a major center for research, UAB Medicine continues to study advances in fertility treatment that can increase a couple’s chances of having a baby.