Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe? Learn What the Latest Research Says

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been around since the 1940s but grew in popularity in the 1960s. More recently, HRT has been seen as highly beneficial for symptomatic women within 10 years of menopause or under 60 years of age. 

Whatever the latest findings, the final decision should always be up to you and your doctor.

Board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Dean Hildahl offers hormone replacement therapy for patients at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics in Naples, Florida.

Who benefits most from HRT?

 If you’re under 60 and struggle with menopausal symptoms, HRT may be right for you. 

Menopausal symptoms frequently include: 

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood swings
• Vaginal dryness

 Weighing the extent of your symptoms against your medical history and other health issues, Dr. Hildahl decides if bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) may be best for you.

HRT vs. BHRT

 Dr. Hildahl uses BHRT for patients experiencing various menopausal issues. BHRT hormones come from plants rather than chemicals or synthetic compounds, mimicking the body’s estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. 

He finds bioidentical hormones a bit safer than those given with HRT.

 Benefits of BHRT

Bioidentical hormones approved by the FDA meet strict standards. Benefits include:

• Increased energy
• Improved mood
• Deeper sleep
• Better libido

 These factors vary from person to person. Only you and your doctor can determine how well BHRT works for you.

 How we implement hormone therapy

 Dr. Hildahl discusses your concerns and assesses your current hormone levels. He then devises a dose-specific treatment plan, incorporating hormones, lifestyle modifications, and other supplements to help improve your symptoms.

 Benefits vs. risks

 The benefits of HRT generally outweigh the risks in patients under 60 with menopausal symptoms and only minimal risk of blood clots or breast cancer.

 The greatest HRT risks involve those with a history of heart disease, blood clots, breast cancer, and/or strokes. 

On the other hand, studies have shown that estrogen therapy, in particular, may help lower the risk of some conditions, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, mood swings, and stroke, in women who lost regular function of their ovaries or stopped having periods in their 40s.

 How to achieve the best results from BHRT

For the best outcomes, Dr. Hildahl chooses the optimal products and delivery methods for each patient. He also recommends:

• Using the lowest effective dose over the shortest period
• Regular follow-ups
• Incorporating regular exercise and a healthy diet 
• Limiting alcohol and not smoking

 It’s also crucial to control any chronic conditions, from high blood pressure to high cholesterol, to receive the best results from hormone therapy and remain healthy overall.

 If you’re interested in reducing menopausal symptoms and wish to consider bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, we help you weigh the pros and cons. Schedule a consultation by phone or online today.