Hrt

What are Hormones?

Hormones are responsible for preserving the chemical balances in the human body by utilizing the bloodstream. Hormones process the communications between the organs in the body and cells. When hormones are released into the bloodstream, they look for compatible cells to pair up with. Once the cells and the hormones unite, a reaction takes place which produces certain chemicals which the body needs to function correctly.

Hormones comes from glands within the endocrine system. The pituitary, thyroid, ovaries and testes are some of the glands that most people are familiar with. Progesterone and Estrogen are two of hormones that control the menstrual cycle in women. Normally estrogen is needed to maintain healthy bones.

What is a Hormone Replacement?

Hormone replacement is when an individual takes synthetic or man made medication to replace hormone levels that are low or no longer produced by the body. A sure sign of low hormone levels is when a woman starts experiencing symptoms of menopause.

One of the main uses of hormone replacement therapy is to replenish the levels of Oestrogen in women. Oestrogen is one of the hormones created by the ovaries that is responsible for the development of female breasts and the menstrual cycle.

When a woman's oestrogen level drops, it creates a significant risk for her regarding heart disease, or osteoporosis. Night sweats, low sex drive and hot flashes are also contributed to low levels of oestrogen.

Also, some type of hormone replacement therapy might be used if the hormones produced by the thyroid have decreased. If the thyroid is not functioning properly the menustual cycle, mood and energy levels are impacted in a negative way.

Types of Hormone Replacements

Hormone replacements are available in the following forms:

• Pills
• Patches
• Implants
• Gels or Creams
• Vaginal Rings

List of some of the more common hormones therapies.

Estrogen - Helps with the side affects of menopause. Hot flashes and night sweats are brought under control. Estrogen can also be used to maintain a healthy heart and to strengthen bones.

Testosterone - Aids or maintains the sexual drive in both men and women.

Human Growth Hormone - It is reported that this particular type of hormone therapy slows down the aging process and lengthens the average life span.

Melatonin - This also is considered as an anti- aging hormone along with helping to extend the life span. Melatonin helps an individual achieve normal sleep patterns.

Progesterone - Increases the sexual desire. PMS and infertility issues can be handled by the use of this hormone. If a woman suffers with heavy menstrual bleeding, progesterone is usually prescribed.

Side Effects from Hormone Replacements

There are numerous side effects when taking hormone replacements. Some women try to use natural herbal remedies that they think do not pose some of the more prominent health factors. Herbal remedies are not regulated by the FDA so it is not safe to assume that they are risk free.

Smoking increases the risk associated with taking hormone replacements. So, if replacement therapy is being considered, it would be advisable to stop smoking.

Breast cancer is one of the leading side effects. It is important to have routine mammograms especially after the age of 40. Just a small dosage of replacement therapy increases the chance for breast cancer. For women that take replacement therapy for long periods of time, it is vital that yearly mammograms are scheduled.

The chances of blot clots developing significantly raises the risk factor of hormone replacement therapy. It is important to pay attention to when your body is telling you that something is wrong. Unusual pains in your limbs or shortness of breath should be immediately reported to your physician. Do not just ignore the signs.

It has been documented that individuals that take a form of the hormone estrogen have the increased chance of developing gallstones or gallbladder disease. Since the production of cholesterol is increased while taking estrogen, the chances of developing gallstones is very high.

Endometrial cancer is associated with the use of estrogen replacement therapies. It it also the risk of ovarian cancer that exists.

The chances of having a heart attack or stroke significantly increases with the use of hormones. This risk applies to women that are considered in good health along with those that have some form of cardiovascular issues.

For individuals that are taking estrogen may experience some or all of the side effects listed below:

• Weight gain
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fluid build up