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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
Bondi
Family Health Centre
Phone 02 9365 1333
Int: 612 9365 1333
260a Bondi Road
Bondi NSW 2066
AUSTRALIA
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