Medical administration of the hormone Estrogen is called as Estrogen Replacement Therapy. ERT is given to the women who is under the menopause phase, to avoid the menopause symptoms such as night sweats, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes. Usually the lowest effective dosage is given to the women just for replacing natural estrogen that declines in the menopausal woman. After a woman has passed Menopause, remarkably small amount of estrogen is released with the ovaries that do not release eggs after menopause.
How Estrogen Replacement Therapy is done?
Estrogen Replacement Therapy
Estrogen and Progesterone are the two main female hormones, and if progesterone is added to the estrogen, the risk of uterus cancer is highly reduced. These hormones can be taken in the form of tablets, however, other forms, such as, skin patches, shots, vaginal suppositories and creams are available in the drug stores. Estrogen Replacement Therapy is also done if the woman is at risk for coronary heart diseases or osteoporosis.
What are the benefits of Estrogen Replacement Therapy?
The benefits are generally high as compared to the risk factors involved with it. However, this therapy can be chosen on the individual basis.
- Coronary Heart Disease is reduced. Evidences have shown that Estrogen Replacement Therapy can reduce the heart diseases in the postmenopausal women.
- Osteoporosis is prevented and treated using ERT. Along with the calcium supplements Estrogen Replacement Therapy is given to cut down the loss of bones.
- Menopausal symptoms are highly reduced. These symptoms sometimes last up to several months, so ERT helps in revealing the symptoms.
Are there any side effects of ERT?
There are some side effects associated with ERT:
- Fluid retention, bloating, and weight gain
- Vaginal discharge and uterine bleeding
- Patient can feel some premenstrual symptoms, like nausea, mood swings, and headaches
- Breast enlargement and tenderness
- If estrogen tablets, are taken it can cause gallstones formation.
Moreover, patients suffering from liver disease, vaginal bleeding, strokes, uterine fibroids, migraine attacks, breast, or endometrial cancer should not take the ERT. It is highly recommended taking the doctor’s advice before starting the Estrogen Replacement Therapy.