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What are the side effects of taking estrogen after menopause?

Written by Abigail Walker - February 02, 2023

What are the Side Effects of Taking Estrogen After Menopause?

As women enter menopause, their bodies produce less estrogen. This natural loss of hormones can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. To counter these side effects, some women may choose to supplement estrogen with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). While HRT can be very effective in easing menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life, it is important to be aware of any potential side effects before beginning treatment.

Common Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with taking estrogen after menopause include:

  • Breast tenderness or swelling
  • Spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Headaches
  • Bloating or nausea
  • Weight gain
  • Mood swings or irritability
    Some people may experience more serious effects such as an increased risk for stroke or blood clots, so it is important to consult a doctor before starting HRT.

Risks for Certain Groups
Estrogen replacement therapy carries different risks based on age and health history. For example, women who are over 50 have an increased risk of developing stroke when taking estrogen. Additionally, those with a family history of breast cancer may see an increased risk when taking supplemental hormones. Those with high cholesterol levels should also proceed with caution. It is important to discuss any potential risks with your doctor before beginning treatment to ensure that you are making the best decision possible for your individual health needs.

Additional Considerations
In addition to potential side effects, there are other factors that should be considered when looking into hormone replacement therapy for relief from menopausal symptoms. Estrogen therapy significantly increases the chance of endometrial cancer in postmenopausal women who have not had a hysterectomy; therefore, it is typically recommended that women using this form of HRT also take progestin along with the estrogen in order to reduce this risk factor. Your doctor can help you decide if this combination would be beneficial for you and discuss any options you may have regarding potential treatments and medications.

Alternative Treatments
While supplementing hormones via HRT is an option available to many women going through menopause, there are other alternatives that can still provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms without the need for additional drugs or hormones in the body. Some lifestyle changes that may ease menopausal symptoms include:

  • Eating well balanced meals rich in vitamins and minerals
  • Exercising regularly
  • Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation

Additionally, herbal remedies such as black cohosh or dong quai might provide some relief from bothersome symptoms associated with hormone fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause stages of life. However it’s important to check with your doctor prior to trying out any alternative treatments as contraindications could exist depending on individual medical history and current health status .

At HGH Treatment clinic we understand how difficult going through menopause can be and offer hormone replacement therapies tailored specifically for each patient’s individual needs in our state-of-the art clinic where we take pride in providing top quality service in a safe comfortable setting . Our experienced team will make sure open communication exists throughout your entire treatment process so that you fully understand all risks associated while feeling empowered by all available alternatives .

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