‘Understanding your hormones isn’t scary, it’s empowering’: Mini Mathur talks about starting bioidentical HRT for menopause

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that replaces the hormones (estrogen and progesterone) the body no longer produces as a result of menopause. “Your ovaries no longer generate large quantities of estrogen and progesterone when you enter menopause. Changes in these hormone levels might result in unpleasant sensations,” explained Dr Shalini Vijay, senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar.

Types of HRT

Dr Vijay said that hormone therapy can be classified into several categories, based on the specific hormones used and the method of administration:

There are two methods of administering hormone therapy: systemic and local. Systemic hormone therapy involves taking pills, patches, gels, or injections that deliver hormones throughout the body. Local hormone therapy, on the other hand, delivers hormones directly to the vagina via creams, rings, or tablets.

Estrogen-only therapy: This type of HT involves supplementing the body with estrogen, either alone or in combination with other medications. Estrogen-only therapy is usually prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy and no longer need to take progesterone. “Estrogen-based hormone therapy can help relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. It can also help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, estrogen-based hormone therapy can also increase the risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and blood clots,” said Dr Vaishali.

What are the different kinds of hormone replacement therapy? (Source: Freepik)

Combined estrogen-progestin therapy: This type of HT involves supplementing the body with both estrogen and progesterone, or a synthetic form of progesterone known as progestin. This type of therapy is usually prescribed for women who have not had a hysterectomy and still have their uterus.

Transdermal therapy: This type of HT involves applying hormones, such as estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone, to the skin through patches, gels, creams, or sprays.

Oral therapy: This type of HT involves taking hormones, such as estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone, in pill form.

Injectable therapy: This type of HT involves injecting hormones, such as estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone, into the body through subcutaneous injections or intramuscular injections.

Vaginal therapy: This type of HT involves using low-dose hormones, such as estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone, in the form of creams, rings, or tablets, to address symptoms such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.

The choice of the specific type and category of hormone therapy will depend on a woman’s individual symptoms, medical history, and personal preferences, and should be determined by a healthcare professional after considering all the benefits and risks.

What are the risks associated with hormone therapy?

Hormone treatment, like any other drug, has adverse effects, said Dr Vaishali. The following are the most prevalent side effects — monthly bleeding, irregular spotting, tenderness in the breasts and mood changes can be frequently noted.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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