During menopause, a woman’s ovaries produce lower levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones. Without enough of these hormones, individuals can experience severe symptoms—such as intense hot flashes, headaches, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep problems. Fortunately, if you’re experiencing these effects, your doctor will prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—medications that boost estrogen and progesterone. However, since many myths surround this treatment option, women may opt-out without knowing how it may benefit them. To make an informed decision about your health, here are a few common misperceptions about HRT and the truth behind them.

3 HRT Myths Dispelled

1. It Increases Breast Cancer Risk

Research in the early 2000s suggested that hormone replacement therapy was associated with a higher risk of developing breast cancer. While there is a higher risk associated with combination (estrogen and progesterone) HRT, this risk goes down after you complete therapy. Furthermore, the FDA notes that individuals who take estrogen-only HRT reported a lower risk of developing breast cancer. If you have a high risk of breast cancer, or already had the disease, talk to your doctor about how HRT may impact your health.

2. Topical Solutions Are Just as Effective

Hormone replacement therapy is available in many different forms—including gels, patches, and topical lotions. However, not all of these solutions deliver the same effectiveness. For example, topical creams are known to alleviate vaginal dryness, but will not relieve hot flashes, night sweats, and other severe menopause symptoms. If you’re suffering from more than vaginal dryness or pain during sex, talk to your doctor about higher-dose alternatives to topical therapy.

3. Bioidentical Hormones Are Better

Pharmaceutical companies derive bioidentical hormones from plant and animal sources. While they are marketed as “natural” alternatives to traditional hormone replacement therapy, these products are still likely to include a manufactured chemical component. Manufacturers often cite bioidentical hormones as safer than HRT. However, the FDA does not recognize this option to be safer. Additionally, bioidentical products may not deliver the correct dosage of necessary hormones, which could present various health risks.

Knowing the many decisions to make about hormone replacement therapy, Stapp Medical Group is committed to providing personalized care for women in Springboro, OH. As a primary health care provider serving the Dayton region, this clinic is a convenient resource for those who want to explore HRT options. With an in-depth understanding of these medications, these physicians will assess risks and benefits to help you make an informed treatment decision. To learn more about these and other services, visit this family medicine provider online. For appointments, call (937) 886-5018.