During menopause, a woman's body produces less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This often leads to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. If hormones are not taken to help manage these symptoms, here is an overview of what typically happens:
Effects on the body
- Hot flashes and night sweats often persist and do not improve over time without treatment. These sudden feelings of intense heat and sweating can disrupt sleep and daily activities.
- Vaginal tissues become drier, thinner, and more fragile without estrogen. This can lead to irritation, discomfort during sex, and increased risk of infection.
- The risk of osteoporosis increases substantially. Estrogen helps maintain healthy bone density, so without it, bones become weaker and more prone to fractures over time.
- The risk of heart disease rises following menopause. Estrogen is thought to have a protective cardiovascular effect in women before menopause.
- Some research links not taking hormones to slightly higher risks of conditions like colon cancer and tooth loss later in life.
Effects on mood
- Fluctuating hormone levels are directly related to mood changes like irritation, anxiety, and depression for some women. These may be more frequent or pronounced without hormonal treatment.
- Sleep disturbances related to hot flashes and night sweats can also contribute to mood problems.
- Some women report feeling less sharp mentality, having poorer memory, and being in a sort of "brain fog" without hormone therapy.
Relief of symptoms
There are lifestyle changes and non-hormonal medications that may provide relief for
some menopausal signs and symptoms:
- Keeping cool with light clothing, avoiding triggers like spices, alcohol and stress
- Practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, deep breathing
- Using over-the-counter lubricants for vaginal dryness during sex
- Taking dietary supplements like soy, black cohosh, or vitamin E
- Using prescription medications for hot flashes, sleep, or depression
However, hormone therapy remains the most
effective treatment available for relieving a wide range of menopause symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. With a doctor's guidance to weigh benefits and risks,
hormone therapy can greatly improve physical and emotional comfort and quality of life for many women transitioning through menopause.
If you are struggling with menopausal symptoms, the caring physicians at
Renew Hormone Institute offer customized
bioidentical hormone therapy programs to help get your life back on track. Contact us today to ask about a free consultation!
