Historically, the physical strains on women entering menopause were dismissed as part of an inevitable transition. With new treatment options, menopause does not have to be punctuated with hot flashes or plagued by mood changes. With an abundance of options, improved quality of life during the aging process is the norm. In the past, weight gain and sleep disturbances were the most challenging part, but now the hardest part is simply picking the right treatment plan for you. 

Once you have decided on hormone replacement therapy, you and your doctor will decide on either estrogen-only treatment or a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Replacing both hormones is known as combination therapy. Estrogen vs. combination hormone therapy is a topic worth learning about; a basic understanding enables you to actively participate in your treatment plan. 

Menopause Basics

Menopause is a physiological transition when ovary function declines and cessation of menstrual cycles occur. Ovaries generate an egg and produce a combination of two main reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Over time the ovaries begin making less and less hormones until eventually an egg is no longer released and periods stop. On average, this occurs in people with female reproductive organs in their late 40s or early 50s. 

Possible symptoms of menopause are:

•        Irregular periods

•        Vaginal dryness

•        Hot flashes and chills

•        Night sweats

•        Sleep disturbances

•        Mood changes

•        Weight gain

•        Dry skin

Symptoms can begin months or years before menopause has completed and can range from mild to severe. Not everyone will experience all symptoms, but most people experience at least a few. 

Estrogen Hormone Replacement Therapy

With estrogen therapy, estrogen is taken alone vs. combined with the hormone progesterone. Doctors will usually prescribe the lowest dose possible to relieve symptoms. A doctor can prescribe a daily dose of estrogen in the form of a pill, cream, gel, spray, or vaginal ring. Individuals who have had their uteruses removed are candidates for estrogen-only hormone therapy. For those who still have a uterus, combination therapy should be considered. 

Combination Hormone Therapy

Combination therapy is the use of estrogen and progesterone for treatment vs. estrogen alone. Progestin is a synthetic form of progesterone and is usually what a doctor prescribes. Combining both hormones is the treatment of choice for those who still have a uterus because of an increased risk of uterine lining cancer among patients receiving estrogen alone. Patients have fewer options for the ingestion of combination therapy vs. estrogen-only therapy. A doctor can prescribe combination therapy as pills, patches, or vaginal inserts. 

Reasons to Initiate Hormone Therapy Other Than Menopause 

A natural decline in reproductive hormones is not the only reason hormone therapy may be needed. Any illness, injury, or disorder that reduces estrogen or progesterone production and induces menopause may require hormone therapy. Aside from alleviating symptoms, hormone therapy has other benefits like reducing the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. Some studies have also shown a decreased risk of dementia. 

To Find Out More About the Types of Hormone Therapies, Schedule a Consultation Today  

If you are experiencing symptoms of or have been diagnosed with menopause, it may be time to discuss estrogen vs. combination hormone therapy with a doctor. Let us help you ease the process of menopause and tailor a treatment plan that meets your goals. Hormone therapy is not suitable for everyone. Our experienced doctors can help you assess the risks and benefits to determine if hormone replacement therapy, and what type, is right for you