In today's article, we run through some of the steps women can take to minimise and manage the risks associated with HRT.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), has been a common approach for managing menopausal symptoms and preventing certain health conditions. However, it's vital to understand the potential risks associated with this treatment, particularly for individuals with specific medical backgrounds.
The risks associated with HRT/MHT depend on various factors, including:
Age: Younger individuals may have different risk profiles compared to older individuals when using HRT/MHT.
Type and Dose of Hormone Therapy: Different formulations and dosages of hormone therapy carry varying levels of risk.
Duration of Treatment: Long-term use of HRT/MHT may pose different risks compared to short-term use.
Medical History: Your personal medical background, including family history and existing health conditions, can influence the risks of HRT/MHT.
How To Reduce & Manage Risks Associated With HRT/MHT
If you are considering HRT, to minimise and manage the risks associated with HRT/MHT, we've put together our top tips & strategies to consider. We'd recommend you keep these in mind when choosing your health provider. If you are a patient of The Functional Doctors, you can rest assured that our GPs & wider health teams will take the time to talk you through the considerations below:
Start at a Low Dose: Beginning with the lowest effective dose of hormone therapy can help minimise potential adverse effects.
Consult with Your Doctor: Discussing the most suitable form of HRT/MHT with your healthcare provider is essential for personalised treatment.
Regular Dose Reviews: Periodic evaluations with your doctor can ensure that your hormone therapy remains appropriate for your needs.
Knowing When to Stop: Regular assessments can help determine the optimal duration of HRT/MHT, ensuring that it's discontinued when appropriate.
Healthy Lifestyle Practices
In addition to medical considerations, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can complement HRT/MHT and promote overall well-being. Studies have shown that the most common risk factors of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease were physical inactivity (53.6%), obesity (44.3%), arterial hypertension (36.6%), hypercholesterolemia (31.4%), low calcium intake (30.1%) and smoking (28.7%), With this in mind, we've listed below a some of the key steps you should consider in balancing your lifestyle with medical options:
Regular Exercise: Incorporating physical activity into your routine can help manage menopausal symptoms and support cardiovascular health. The National library of medicine has the following recommendation:
One should aim for two hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Other deep breathing, yoga, and stretching exercises can help to manage the stress of life and menopause-related symptoms.
Balanced Diet: Eating a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide essential nutrients and support hormone balance. Studies have shown that a healthy diet can have an outweighed benefit on overall health.
Avoiding Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption can exacerbate menopausal symptoms and increase health risks. If you are questioning your consumption of either product, we recommend you speak to a healthcare professional for advice.
Limiting Caffeine Intake: Excessive caffeine consumption may worsen symptoms like hot flashes and interfere with sleep quality, and caffeine use is associated with greater vasomotor symptom bother in postmenopausal women. Reducing your caffeine intake can have a notable impact on health during this stage of life.
By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures, you can make informed decisions about HRT/MHT and prioritise your health during the menopausal transition.
If you are a woman over 45 and would like to explore hormonal solutions and assess your suitability for this treatment, schedule a free consult with our patient-care team using the link below
While we've ensured that everything you read on our blogs is medically reviewed and approved, the information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should never rely on this blog for specific medical advice, and if you have any questions or concerns specific to your personal case, you should speak to your doctor or reach out to our team directly.