Breast changes with HRT

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Four Reasons NOT to take Hormone Replacement Therapy

While many women and doctors agree that taking hormone replacement therapy, also called HRT, for menopausal symptoms can be beneficial, there are reasons not to take these hormones. Many researchers and doctors agree that taking these synthetic hormones can have serious side effects as women age. Some doctors feel that women, who want to reduce the side effects of menopause, should look into natural alternatives.

There are many symptoms of menopause. Menopause occurs naturally for all women between the ages of the late 40s to 50s. Menopause can also occur if a woman’s ovaries are surgically removed due to health complication. Many doctors prescribe hormone replacement therapy to lessen the unpleasant side effects of menopause such as hot flashes, headaches, nausea and mood swings. While not all doctors agree over the use of HRT, most doctors take a middle of the road approach. After they have talked with a woman about all possible side effects and pros and cons of replacement hormones, they will allow the woman to make the decision. Most doctors will prescribe replacement hormones using the least possible dosage for the least amount of time. Women often enjoy the benefits of HRT, but there are risks, too.

Increased risk of breast cancer: Studies on women taking replacement hormones have shown that taking these prescriptions medications can increase the risk for breast cancer. This is especially true for women that either have a personal history of breast cancer, or are at high risk because breast cancer is in the family. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in the United States. Naturally, doctors are worried of any medication that can increase these risks.

Increased risk of endometrial cancer: There are also studies that show that taking hormone replacement therapy also increases the risk of endometrial or uterine cancer. Women taking estrogen only treatments are at a much greater risk of developing this form of cancer. These hormones can lead to the thickening of the uterus lining, which leads to endometrial cancer. Taking progestin and estrogen as a combination will decrease the risk, but will not completely eliminate the risk of cancer.

More short-term side effects: Not only are there side effects from menopause, taking hormone replacement therapy can also lead to short term side effects. These side effects can include unwanted hair growth, vaginal discharge and irregular bleeding, nausea, headaches and fluid retention. Some women also report swollen and tender breasts and weight gain after taking replacement hormones. Side effects are usually apparent after taking the hormones for a few weeks and some may not show up until a few months. Some will go away on their own, while others may not.

Increased risk of blood clots: Taking replacement hormones can also give women an increase risk of blood clots, such as thrombosis. Women, who have blood clots or have a strong family history of this disorder, are generally discouraged from taking hormone replacement therapy. This can also increase the risk of strokes, which is common in women in their menopause years.

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