HRT Specialist

What is HRT?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treats the hormone imbalance created when menopause starts. Menopause happens to every woman. It typically starts between the ages 44-55, although it can begin when you're as young as 30. It marks the end of the menstrual cycle, and you receive an official diagnosis once you've gone a full 12 months without a period. 

This change is because the body stops producing the hormone estrogen, and the hormone imbalance that results can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as night sweats, hot flushes, and vaginal dryness. HRT replaces the lost estrogen, providing some relief from menopause symptoms. 

If you're menopausal or post-menopausal, reach out to your provider at Women's Health of Manhattan. They offer expert advice and guidance on whether HRT might be right for you. 

What are the different types of HRT?

The providers at Women's Health of Manhattan offer several HRT options, individualized to your circumstances. They may be estrogen only, or they may combine estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen-only HRT

Women who have had a hysterectomy no longer need progesterone, so an estrogen-only variant is better for them.

Sequential HRT

Sequential HRT, also known as cyclical HRT, combines estrogen-progesterone and is suitable if you're still getting a period but have started to experience menopause transition (perimenopausal) symptoms. You take it after every menstrual cycle or every 13 weeks, depending on your instructions. 

Continuous HRT

Continuous HRT is suitable if you haven't had a period in over a year (post-menopausal). It comes as either a combination of estrogen and progesterone or estrogen-only HRT, and you take it every day with no breaks.

Local estrogen

Local estrogen comes in tablets and cream format and helps with genital symptoms, including vaginal dryness and painful sex.

Your provider discusses with you your HRT options and recommends the type they think benefits you most.

Are there any risks to HRT?

HRT isn't for everyone. It's not suitable if you are at a high risk for or have experienced the following:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Blood clots
• Some cancers —ovarian, breast, or endometrial
• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Severe migraines
  
  

Your provider must be aware of your health history before prescribing HRT to make sure you're not at risk of harmful side effects.

HRT can help you take control of your menopause symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call Women's Health of Manhattan today to schedule an HRT consultation or request an appointment online.