The Most Common Misconceptions About HRT Therapy Explained

HRT therapy has been around for many years, helping women combat the hormonal changes they experience as their bodies sail through (and by sail we mean ride out rough seas, choppy waters, and waves crashing around them like they're actively trying to drown them) perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. This includes those experiencing endometriosis, menopause, migraine, and hair loss before starting HRT at menopause. Addressing issues with endometriosis and HRT in menopause is essential for managing symptoms effectively.

For some people, the addition of hormonal treatments at this time is a sanity saver; others prefer to choose to go alone or opt for more natural remedies. But how you choose to combat this period of change isn't set in stone, nor should it be dictated to you. Particularly in dealing with menopause,and hair loss, you can choose the right path for you, whatever feels fits the best when managing endometriosis with HRT at menopause, especially if migraines are an issue. In particular, the interplay of endometriosis, HRT, and menopause requires careful consideration.

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But for women considering HRT or hormone replacement therapy, it's a good idea to bust through some of the myths and common misconceptions about migraine, HRT, and menopause so you get the facts. This post isn't intended to replace medical guidance, so talk to your doctor or a professional who can assist with getting a telemedicine HRT prescription if that is more suitable. However, understanding endometriosis, HRT, and menopause can help uncover some truths about HRT that can help you make up your mind on what is best for you, especially if dealing with menopause, HRT, and hair loss during menopause.

HRT therapy Causes Breast Cancer

We would be doing a disservice if this topic weren't mentioned. And official guidance as per The Menopause Charity states that oestrogen alone is associated with little to no risk of breast cancer. Increased risk means simply above the risk you would face without taking it at all. If you choose to take body-identical HRT, there is no increased risk for the first 5 years taking it. Even then, the risk is lower than other lifestyle factors, including being overweight or consuming too much alcohol, for example.

Dr Samantha Wild from Bupa Health Clinics states, “The risk of breast cancer when taking HRT is very small in most cases and depends on many factors, including the type taken and how long you take it for. “When HRT is stopped, the risk falls, and there is no increased risk of dying from breast cancer.”

However, it is worth noting that all systematic forms of HRT except vaginal oestrogen increase breast cancer risk to some degree, and systematic HRT isn't usually recommended in women with a history of breast cancer. This is significant for those treating menopause, HRT, and hair loss during menopause.

Also READ - Join the Fight Against Breast Cancer: How Awareness and Therapy Are Saving Lives

HRT therapy Causes Heart Problems

Studies have shown that taking HRT before you reach 60 can actually lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. HRT in tablet form can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes slightly, but this risk is avoided if taken in patch, gel, or spray form.

Most doctors will perform regular checks when you're on HRT to monitor for changes to your health to catch anything of significance early. Your history and risk factors will also be taken into account prior to giving you HRT to make sure you're not put at any increased risk.

Not all types of HRT are suitable for everyone, but again, your doctor can decide with you on your medical history if it's an option for you.

You Can’t Start HRT therapy Before Your Symptoms Become Unbearable

You absolutely can and should discuss with your doctor taking HRT when your symptoms start. Even in perimenopause, at the first signs of hormonal changes, HRT can be beneficial, particularly for migraine sufferers.

You should not suffer from the various symptoms of perimenopause and menopause alone.

If you are a suitable candidate for HRT, the sooner you start taking it, the easier it will be for you to get on with your life and get things under control. Of course, if you decide to take a different approach, that's entirely up to you; HRT is an option, but not your only choice when dealing with menopause, HRT, and hair loss or managing migraine and menopause.

The decision-making process regarding endometriosis, HRT therapy, and menopause can be complex, so ensure you are well-informed.

Plant-Based or Bioidentical Compounded Hormones are Safer than FDA-Approved Pharmaceuticals

Many women prefer to take bioidentical hormones as they think it's more natural and safer.

However, these types of products aren't always scrutinised the same way as FDA-approved medications. This means you can't always verify exactly what is in them or if you're getting the dose they claim you are.

The FDA has approved some bioidentical hormone formulations, so if you choose this option, you can try them out using approved products. But for the most part, it's probably worth taking claims of non-approved products with a pinch of salt, as they may not all be what they claim to be.

Women Who Reach Menopause Before 50 Should Avoid HRT

Not really, in fact, studies show the opposite is actually true. Research found that women who started HRT therapy early or within 10 years of menopause had a 30% lower mortality rate and 26% lower risk of dementia, as well as a 48% lower risk of heart disease compared to women taking a placebo.

These days, around two-thirds of women reach menopause before 50, so taking HRT earlier if it's suitable for you could be extremely beneficial. Women suffering from menopause, HRT, and hair loss at this stage can find relief with HRT during menopause. Endometriosis, HRT, and menopause are interconnected and should be addressed together for the best outcomes.

HRT Causes Weight Gain

The truth here is that many women experience weight gain with or without HRT in their 40s. Bodies change, and fluctuating hormones and symptoms of perimenopause can impact whether someone puts on weight or not.

The same applies to losing weight; the changes in hormones or factors, such as not sleeping properly, can make losing weight harder, but HRT specifically does not cause weight gain.

HRT Delays the Menopause

HRT treats the symptoms of menopause and peri menopause. This means if they are going to occur, you will get any symptoms of perimenopause or menopause regardless of whether you took HRT or not.

For example, you might start taking HRT in your late 40s for peri menopause and then stop at 50. If you experience symptoms when you stop, chances are you would have still been experiencing them anyway.

You Can Only Take HRT for 5 Years

You can take HRT for as long as you need to. Or for as long as the benefits outweigh the risks. This is why regular appointments and health checks are essential, so you and your doctor can make sure it's still the right option and nothing has changed during your time taking it. Migraine, menopause, HRT, and hair loss can be managed with proper care.

Endometriosis, HRT, and menopause are significant aspects to discuss with your healthcare provider.