Are you struggling with the disruptive symptoms of menopause or hormonal imbalances? At Valley Integrated Urgent Care and Wellness Center, board-certified family physician Dr. Carolina Braga specializes in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) designed to restore your balance and vitality. Understanding the wide-ranging impact of hormonal fluctuations on well-being – affecting energy, mood, sleep, and cognitive function – Dr. Braga develops personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique symptoms, health history, and wellness goals. If you want to feel like yourself again, find out what hormone replacement therapy is and how it can improve your quality of life, under Dr. Braga’s expert guidance.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
According to Dr. Braga, it’s a medical treatment intended to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly during menopause. As you move through this natural phase of life, your body will produce less estrogen and progesterone, causing symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. When administered under careful medical supervision, HRT can replenish these vital hormones, restoring a sense of balance and enhancing your overall quality of life.
What Are The Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There are two main types of HRT, which Dr. Braga will discuss with you to determine the most appropriate option:
- Combined HRT (Estrogen and Progestogen): Typically recommended for women who still have their womb. Progestogen is included to protect the womb lining from being overstimulated by estrogen via tablets, patches, or a releasing coil.
- Estrogen-Only HRT: Prescribed for women who have had their womb removed (hysterectomy).
When you come in for a consultation at Valley Integrated Urgent Care, Dr. Braga will also discuss the various methods through which HRT can be administered, such as: oral tablets, skin patches, an implant, oestrogen gel or spray.
7 Life-Changing Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Dr. Braga has witnessed firsthand the remarkable ways in which Hormone Replacement Therapy can dramatically improve her patients’ lives. Here are 8 key benefits she often highlights:
- Find Relief from Menopausal Symptoms. One of the most notable benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy is being able to say goodbye to hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
- Support Strong and Healthy Bones. HRT plays a vital role in helping to keep your bones strong, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and supporting your long-term health.
- Promote a Healthy Heart. Research suggests that when started around the time of menopause, HRT may have a positive impact on your cardiovascular health, contributing to a healthier heart.
- Enjoy More Restful Sleep. If hormonal fluctuations are disrupting your sleep, HRT can help regulate your sleep patterns, leading to more restful nights and increased energy during the day.
- Rejuvenate Your Skin. Experience the benefits of improved skin elasticity and hydration with HRT, which can contribute to a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
- Greater Mood Stability. Hormonal imbalances can often lead to irritability and mood swings. Hormone Replacement Therapy can help here by stabilizing your emotions, promoting a greater sense of well-being and balance.
- Enhanced Intimacy and Comfort. By addressing issues like vaginal dryness and low libido, HRT can significantly improve your comfort and enhance your intimate relationships.
Dr. Braga’s Most Frequently Answered Questions
1. When Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Not Suitable?
For your safety and well-being, Dr. Braga conducts a thorough review of your health history, as HRT may not be the best option if your medical history includes conditions like blood clots, liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, other heart conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
2. Are There Side Effects?
While you may experience temporary side effects as your body adjusts to HRT, such as fluid retention, breast tenderness, vaginal bleeding, or headaches, Dr. Braga assures these improve within a few months.
3. Will I Gain Weight From Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There’s no strong evidence to suggest that HRT directly causes weight gain, but it’s normal for your weight to fluctuate during menopause regardless of hormone therapy.
4. When Should I Stop Taking HRT?
Most women can gradually stop once menopause symptoms have finished, often within 2-5 years of starting.
Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Right For You? Consult With Dr. Braga
The journey to hormonal balance and improved well-being starts with a conversation. Take the first step today by contacting Dr. Braga at Valley Integrated Urgent Care and Wellness Center, and see how a personalized HRT plan can help you feel more balanced and vibrant.
