Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy based on medications that contained female hormones to replace those lost due to menopause used to be a standard treatment for women with symptoms, such as hot flashes. Now that research has bridged the "gender gap", our medical team understand how both sexes experience a lower production of vital hormones as they age leading to conditions that can include:
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Today, the term hormone therapy or simply "HT" is being used to replace the outdated terminology and our medical team is committed to providing the latest diagnostic technology and advanced treatment options to help both women (menopause or perimenopause) and men (andropause) enjoy the highest quality of life. The main hormones involved are estrogen, progesterone and progestin with more recent therapies including the use of androgens.
Is Hormone Therapy Really Safe?
IN WOMEN - A study called the Women's Health Initiative discovered an increased risk of breast cancer, heart attack and stroke in post-menopausal women on hormone therapy. However, the risks vary depending on whether estrogen is given alone or with a progestin, and depending on the patient's current age and age at menopause, and existing health risks for disease, such as heart disease or cancer.
IN MEN - Hormone Therapy using androgens (e.g. - testosterone) can raise a man's risk for blood clots, heart attacks and stroke. However, recent research concludes that the benefits outweigh the risks for men who are otherwise healthy yet have low testosterone levels due to hypogonadism. The FDA does not recommend testosterone therapy for men with low testosterone levels for no apparent reason other than aging.
NOTE: To determine if hormone therapy is a good treatment option for you, talk to one of our age management doctors about your individual symptoms, any potential health risks and treatment options.
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