Your health on your time

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that involves supplementing or replacing hormones that the body no longer produces in adequate amounts.

It’s most commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause in women by replacing estrogen and sometimes progesterone, helping to alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and other menopausal symptoms.

HRT can also refer to testosterone replacement therapy for men with low testosterone levels

HRT works by delivering hormones directly into your body to replace or supplement what your body is no longer producing naturally. For menopausal women, this typically involves estrogen and sometimes progesterone, which are absorbed through the skin, digestive system, or other delivery methods depending on the form used.

These replacement hormones bind to hormone receptors throughout your body, helping restore normal hormonal function and alleviating symptoms like hot flashes and mood changes.

The hormones are processed by your liver and distributed through your bloodstream, essentially mimicking your body’s natural hormone production from before menopause or other hormonal changes.

Common Side Effects

• Breast tenderness
• Bloating and fluid retention
• Nausea (especially when starting)
• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Acne or oily skin
• Hair loss
• Increased body hair growth
• Voice changes (potentially permanent)

Serious Risks

• Blood clots (higher risk with oral estrogen)
• Increased stroke risk
• Breast cancer risk (with long-term use)
• Liver problems (rare)

Important Notes

• Many side effects are temporary and improve as your body adjusts
• Individual risk varies based on age, health history, and dosage
• Regular monitoring with a healthcare provider is essential
• Different delivery methods (oral, patch, injection) have different risk profiles

Always consult with a healthcare provider specializing in hormone therapy to discuss your individual risks and benefits.