Women’s health is often a myriad of confusing symptoms and issues. Menopause is a time that can exacerbate these issues as your body goes through hormonal shifts that signal the end of child-bearing capabilities. Some of the symptoms of these hormonal shifts include:
- Hot flashes / night sweats
- Mental fogginess / memory issues
- Reduced concentration
- Irritability
- Sleep issues
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Decreased libido
- Vaginal dryness
What is surgical menopause?
Unlike traditional menopause, surgical menopause develops after a hysterectomy in which the ovaries are removed. Because the ovaries are the main producer of estrogen, one of the key hormones in female reproductive health, the body is forced into a sudden menopause.
Why are hormones important?
The reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone, play an important part in whole body functioning. They impact on several of the body’s major systems including the brain, heart, bones, skin and vascular system. As you age, these hormone levels gradually decrease and signal the onset of menopause. By contrast, surgical menopause creates a sudden drop in hormonal levels, which can have very drastic side effects. One way to counteract these symptoms is using hormone replacement therapy
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) uses synthetic female hormones to treat menopausal symptoms. In the past, this therapy was routinely used after a woman underwent a hysterectomy. In recent years, however, clinical studies have found that some of these man-made therapies have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, blood clots and breast cancer. Additionally, they have been shown to increase breast density making it more difficult to get an accurate mammogram reading.
Are there better HRT options?
For some, the risks associated with the use of synthetic HRT outweigh the physical benefits it provides. In the past this has led women to silently suffer with agonizing menopause related issues under the assumption that there were no other choices.
At Belle Vie International, we offer our patients a better option in the form of bioidentical hormones. Unlike synthetic (or bio-similar) HRT, bioidentical HRT uses hormones that match the molecular structures of the body’s naturally occurring reproductive hormones. This creates fewer side effects and actually has added benefits including greater control over dosages.
If you or someone you know is suffering from the effects of surgical menopause, contact Belle Vie International for a hormone analysis.