OVERVIEW
The human body is an incredible thing that uses a variety of hormones to do tons of different things. Hormones are necessary to help women grow, develop, and mature into their adult bodies. They also help with the development and health of the reproductive organs, sex drive, and more. So, when these hormones get out of balance or become depleted, hormone therapy for women is one of the best ways to start feeling like yourself again.
What are the basic types of hormone therapies for women?
There are two main types of hormone therapy for women, and they go as follows.
Systemic hormone therapy
Systemic hormone therapy refers to the supplemental use of estrogen, which is the single most important hormone for women. It can come in the form of a pill, patch, cream, and several other options, and it’s mainly necessary during menopause.
Low-dose vaginal hormone therapy
They are usually used to treat vaginal and urinary problems during menopause.
What does hormone therapy do to a woman?
The primary purpose of hormone therapy is to boost women’s estrogen levels during menopause. However, anyone in a short supply of various hormones can benefit from hormone therapy. Our bodies can get out of whack for various reasons, and hormones are often the reason for it.
While boosting estrogen levels during menopause is the main reason women try hormone therapy, it certainly isn’t limited to that. There are growth hormones, melatonin, thyroid hormones, progesterone, and many more. If any one of these becomes reduced or isn’t produced, it can wreak havoc on your body and mind.
How does hormone therapy for women work?
Simply put, hormone therapy works the same way for women as it does for men. You’re given a supplemental dose of a hormone that your body is low on. Here are some of the top ways that hormones are administered.
Creams
Creams, gels, or sprays, mainly for estrogen, are applied to the surface of your skin and absorbed into the bloodstream.
Pills
Oral supplements such as pills are among the most common forms of hormone therapy. They work the same way as vitamins or anything else in pill form.
Patches
Patches are increasing in popularity in terms of hormone therapy. The patch is applied to your skin which then absorbs the contents of the patch into your bloodstream.
Combination therapies
Combination therapies are when two or more different hormones are added to your system. Estrogen is almost always the culprit for most hormonal shortages, but there’s a good chance you could benefit from additional hormones.
Am I a good candidate for hormone therapy?
Many women would likely benefit from hormone therapy, but most are not willing to try it. However, if you suffer from hot flashes, are going through menopause, struggle with bone mass or osteoporosis, or are experiencing painful sex or vaginal dryness, hormone therapy can help. Hormone therapy also reduces the risk of heart disease and can help you get a better night’s sleep.