Menopause Treatment Options

What are the hormones are used in hormone replacement therapy?

Our bodies have multiple hormones that have lots of jobs in our bodies. We work with your doctor to find the right balance for you. Let's explore the different types of hormones:

• Estrogen (Estrone, Estriol, & Estradiol)

Estrogen is prescribed in multiple ways. Most women take a combination of Estriol and Estradiol known as Bi-est. Sometimes, a combination of all three is warranted and is called Tri-est. Symptoms of low estrogen include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Estrogens may also be used to prevent osteoporosis and to maintain bladder and urinary tract function. If your estrogen levels are out of balance, then you may experience

nausea, stomach upset, bloating, headache, dizziness, breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, fluid retention, weight gain, and mood swings.

• Progesterone

Progesterone is used to treat many conditions, including symptoms of menopause, symptoms of PMS, abnormal periods, maintenance of pregnancy, endometriosis, and osteoporosis. Progesterone functions in the body as a mild diuretic and a natural antidepressant. It also helps the body to use fat for energy; normalizes blood clotting, thyroid hormone action and blood sugar; and counteracts estrogen side effects. Progesterone is also a precursor to other hormones including cortisol and corticosteroids and is through to help build bone and improve libido. If your progesterone levels are out of balance, you may experience excessive sleepiness, dizziness, bloating, susceptibility to yeast infections, and functional estrogen deficiency.

• Testosterone

Testosterone is not only in men. It is also produced in the female body but at much lower levels. Testosterone can be helpful for increasing sex drive, energy, and muscle strength. If your testosterone levels are too high, you may experience oily skin, acne, coarsening of body hair, and deepening of the voice.

• DHEA

DHEA, or Dehydroepiandrosterone, is a precursor for many other hormones in the body. In cells it can be converted to testosterone or estrogens. DHEA may enhance the immune system to help protect against infection, injury, and illness. It may also be helpful in enhancing energy and muscle strength. If your DHEA levels are too high, you may experience acne, oily skin, agitation, and possible hair loss.