In order to maximize the use of hormone replacement therapy and to also make it safe, we, as scientists, are constantly working on discovering the benefits and risks of using HRT. Even though a lot of myths about hormone replacement therapy have been debunked, some of them are still very common and may discourage women from using hormones that can drastically improve their lives. The following are some of the most common myths about hormone replacement therapy I have come across in my patients over the past 25 years.

Hormone Replacement Therapy  Increases Risk of  Cancer and Disease

In balance, hormones decrease the risk of cancer and other diseases in women who use them. Studies show HRT reduces the risk of colorectal cancer significantly (by 1/3), reduces the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis, reduces the risk of heart attacks (number 1 killer of women after menopause), and contributes significantly to the quality of life. The most common concern women have is the possibility of a rise in the risk of breast cancer. The relationship between the use of hormone replacement therapy and the risk of breast cancer is still a controversial topic. In many large studies, Hormone replacement therapy has shown to minimally (by <1%) increase the risk of developing breast cancer, and other hormone associated cancers. There is sufficient evidence to support a slight increase ( <1%)  in the risk of breast cancer with long-term estrogen and progestin substitution (longer than 5 years). Breast cancer is also very well studied and cure rates are very high if detected early. Also, the lifetime risk of breast cancer in a woman without HRT is 1 in 8. Therefore regular self-exam, evaluation by Dr. Tahery, and yearly mammogram, and if needed breast ultrasound is important with or without HRT.  women at high risk for certain cancers may require closer and more regular evaluation as recommended by Dr. Tahery.

Bio-Identical Hormones

In terms of molecular and functioning, bioidentical hormone replacement are no different from the hormones produced by the body. Therefore likely they are better tolerated by the body than other forms. We compound both female and male hormones in a cream form. Experience has shown that cream applied to the skin provides gradual absorption and better tolerance by the body. Bioidentical hormones absorbed through the skin do not increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Illegal

HRT has always been legal and is designed to make up for hormonal deficiencies. So it has a healing role. Huge numbers of postmenopausal or “hormonal women” benefit from HRT. Therefore, there is no reason why it should be illegal. You can buy and use HRT without legal concerns. 

Hormone Replacement Therapy is Good for Only 5 Years

There is no scientific evidence on the basis of which it is necessary to stop therapy after 5 years. Every woman is different and for each woman, HRT must be arranged individually. The risk of unwanted complications may be related to the length of time HRT is used. Scientific studies do not provide conclusive findings in this respect but some studies say that while the risk of developing breast cancer does not increase noticeably during the first 5 years of using HRT, it slightly begins to increase with longer therapy. 

There is a lot of controversy surrounding HRT. However, the benefits of using it may be much greater than the possible risks. We believe that each and every woman is different and HRT requires a personalized approach in order to get the most of it. 

Dr. Tahery is a big supporter of hormone replacement therapy in women during transition years of perimenopause to menopause. Based on his years of experience he believes HRT is essential to health after menopause under expert guidance. 

If HRT is of interest to you, Dr. Tahery looks forward to speaking with you about how it can enhance your life.

The post Myths About Hormone Replacement Therapy appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

These are the most common questions I am asked from women transitioning through perimenopause or in menopause. Women concerned about changes they see in themselves, friends, or family seek ways to either make it easier or prevent unwanted changes associated with reduced hormones.

Changes that are most reported are hot flushes, fatigue, insomnia, vaginal dryness, mood changes, mental fogginess, decreased libido, and weight gain in the mid abdomen. Long term, hair loss, loss of skin elasticity, decreased muscle tone, and reduced metabolism also occurs.

Reduced hormones during perimenopause and menopause increase the risk of heart attack by 10 fold, causes gradual weakness in the bones or osteoporosis, and worsen vaginal prolapse and urinary control problems.

The controversies surrounding the safety of hormone therapy that has raged for the past 30 years now is settled by several major studies. These studies show hormone therapy as a significant part of women’s health in perimenopause and menopause.

RELATED: Menopause Care in Los Angeles

Studies also show that starting hormones in perimenopause or very quickly after menopause has the least risk and the greatest benefit. These benefits last as long as the hormones are used. We have also found that hormone customization is the best way to approach hormone replacement. We are all different and are affected differently as we go through the change of life. Evaluating a woman’s symptoms and testing guide the type of hormones her body needs and close follow up allows for adjusting the dosage for complete resolution of symptoms.

In my practice we use bioidentical hormones. These hormones are sourced from soy and yam and compounded to resemble the hormones naturally produced by a woman’s body. I feel that this similarity in hormone structure to natural hormones allow better acceptability and efficacy and minimize side effects. Also using creams to deliver the hormones through the skin has shown to eliminate the risk of deep venous blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks, a major concern with other delivery methods. The goal of hormone replacement is to maximize benefit and minimize risk.

RELATED: Are you experiencing perimenopause symptoms?

Most women are good candidates for hormone replacement therapy with promise of better health and quality of life. If you are on hormone therapy and looking for better results, or thinking about starting, we are happy to see you. Please call us with questions or make an appointment for a consultation.

The post Menopause and Bio-Identical Hormones appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.