Hormone Replacement Therapy 05-04-2006 H R T Hormone Replacement Therapy The symptoms of the menopausal transition may cause unnecessary suffering. See page 168 in the book ETERNAL HEALTH for a discussion on the different ways to manage this period. Natural hormone replacement therapy is now available in very simple oral forms such as "troches" (lozenges) or creams, which can alleviate menopausal symptoms. These may also protect against breast cancer, prevent Alzheimer’s disease, safeguard the wellbeing of your heart and promote strong bones. NOTE: If you do choose this form of treatment then make sure you have your breasts checked regularly by means of a mammogram as well as periodic bone density assessments to ensure that optimal bone mineralisation is being maintained. When you approach menopause your ovaries will cease to produce sufficient amounts of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Signs of oestrogen deficiency include, hot flushes, vaginal dryness, moodiness, pain on urination and frequent urination. Signs of progesterone deficiency are less obvious but as this hormone has a calming effect, indications that your body is producing significantly less of this hormone include anxiety and depression. A paucity of testosterone will lead to a reduction in libido and diminished energy. Before you commence natural HRT it is always a good idea to have your hormone levels measured either by means of a blood test or even better through the use of salivary hormone assays, which provide a more accurate assessment of the level of active hormone in your body. Once you treatment has been initiated you should have your hormone levels remeasured. Progesterone levels should be about 10nmols/L, testosterone 2-3 nmols/L and oestrogen 200-400 pmol/L. There are three major forms of oestrogen produced in your body and these include oestradiol, oestriol and oestrone. Natural HRT will replicate the exact ratios of these so that normal body rhythms can be maintained. Some women will even find this combination too strong for their systems in which case they can opt for the weaker form of oestrogen namely oestriol, which may provide all the relief needed from menopausal symptoms. Natural progesterone will also make the body more receptive to the effects of oestrogen, so for those women who are extremely sensitive and get sore breasts, headaches and fluid retention, simply commencing with progesterone replacement may be the way to go. Aside from reduced libido and diminished energy testosterone deficiency also leads to a host of other symptoms and signs including: 1. Decreased sensitivity to sexual stimulation both genitally and in the breasts 2. Decreased arousability and capacity for orgasm 3. Flabby muscles 4. Vaginal dryness unresponsive to oestrogen 5. Dry skin and brittle hair If your testosterone levels are low and you suffer from the above then replacement with this hormone should be part of your treatment regimen. Testosterone can also be boosted by means of the hormone DHEA that is discussed at length in ETERNAL HEALTH. Natural HRT forms part of the ETERNAL HEALTH Anti Aging program. FYI Male menopause is called Andropause