Deciding About Hormone Therapy Use: Insights from Dr. Laura Faruque
Menopause is a significant transition in a woman’s life, bringing about a host of physical changes that can be overwhelming. For some, these symptoms are mild, but for others, they can severely impact daily life. The decision to use hormone therapy (HT) to manage these symptoms is deeply personal and should be made with careful consideration and guidance from a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Understanding Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen, sometimes in combination with progestogen, to alleviate menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. “Menopause is a very challenging time for women,” says Dr. Laura Faruque. “There are right and wrong ways to go about improving how you feel.”
HT is one of the most effective treatments available for managing severe menopause symptoms. However, not all hormone therapies are created equal, and it’s crucial to understand the differences between FDA-approved therapies and other treatments offered by some clinics that may not be as safe or regulated.
The Difference Between FDA-Approved and Non-Approved Therapies
So, with the rise in hormone treatments, you might wonder about visiting practices that offer quick fixes for menopause symptoms. These clinics often provide compounded hormones that aren’t FDA approved and can come with high fees. While they may promise easy solutions, it’s important to be cautious. These treatments might not be as safe as they appear. It’s always best to consult with a certified healthcare provider to ensure you’re making informed and safe choices for your health.
Compounded hormones, often marketed as “bioidentical,” are touted as being safer because they are identical to the hormones naturally produced by the body. However, Dr. Faruque cautions, “Bioidentical just means it’s an estradiol—the same estrogen that you have in your body. We have multiple prescription FDA-approved hormones that are also bioidentical.”
The key difference is that FDA-approved hormone therapies are rigorously tested and monitored to ensure they are safe and effective, while compounded hormones are not regulated in the same way. “Using bioidentical hormones still carries risks, whether they are FDA-approved or not,” Dr. Faruque emphasizes.
Potential Benefits and Risks of Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for women experiencing severe menopause symptoms. It’s particularly effective for hot flashes and night sweats, and can also help with vaginal dryness and maintaining bone density. However, like all medications, HT comes with potential risks.
“For healthy women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits of HT generally outweigh the risks,” says Dr. Faruque. However, she also notes that hormone therapy might slightly increase the risk of stroke, blood clots, or breast cancer if used for an extended period. “The risks are not common and most go away after you stop treatment, but they should be carefully considered and monitored by a healthcare professional.”
The Importance of Safe and Monitored Hormone Therapy
Dr. Faruque strongly advises that women seek hormone therapy from a certified OB-GYN rather than from clinics that do not perform thorough medical exams or consider a patient’s full medical history. “It’s crucial to have things monitored by someone who is board certified. If you’re taking hormones, especially testosterone, blood levels need to be checked regularly,” she says.
At A Woman’s View, we offer FDA-approved hormone therapy options that are safe, effective, and monitored by our experienced team. “We can do these things here in a safe, informed consent manner that insurance covers, although they don’t cover testosterone,” Dr. Faruque explains. “We offer therapies for hot flashes and other menopause symptoms, using treatments that are both effective and safe.”
Making an Informed Decision
Deciding whether to use hormone therapy is a personal choice that should be made with the help of a healthcare professional who understands your unique needs and risks. “Hormones make you feel better, but you have to be informed of the risks. You have to know what the risks and side effects are, what your particular risks are, and have things monitored,” Dr. Faruque advises.
Ultimately, the decision to use hormone therapy should be based on a careful assessment of your symptoms, your personal and family health history, and a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider. At A Woman’s View, we are here to help you navigate this decision and find the treatment plan that is best for you.
