Estrogen Hormone Therapy

There are three primary forms of estrogen replacement therapy:

• Oral medications: Estrogen pills are a common hormone replacement treatment therapy. Different dosages make it possible to administer the proper dosage once per day.
• Topical applications: Estrogen patches can also restore hormone levels, and they are a convenient alternative for patients who have trouble with oral medications. The patches contain bio-identical estrogen that is absorbed into the skin. Gels and creams are another topical application that can effectively restore hormonal balance.
• Estrogen implants: Estrogen hormone pellets are natural and plant-based. They precisely mimic the molecular structure of estrogen, thus allowing the body to metabolize it, minimizing side effects. These pellets can be inserted into the lower abdomen or hip area in a quick and relatively painless procedure that takes only a few minutes. The pellet remains in the body, providing accurate and consistent doses of estrogen for three to six months.

These therapies are beneficial as a treatment for all three stages of menopause, from the first signs of decreasing estrogen or perimenopause to post-menopause. Because there are different estrogen therapies to choose from, patients can decide with their doctor which application is most convenient.

We are discovering just how essential proper hormone balance is to age management. Hormones, like estrogen, act as messengers among crucial body systems such as the endocrine, nervous and immune systems. These hormones also exert their biochemical effects to regulate our body temperature, growth, immune function and aging.

Unfortunately, as we age, women experience a drop in the hormone estrogen. Allowing for the replenishment of estrogen to its optimal level alleviates age-related changes and brings about improvements in:

• Muscle tone.
• Skin smoothness.
• Hair texture.
• Sex drive.

When using estrogen hormone therapy for menopause, seeking treatment early can prevent the progression of menopause. As a result, age management benefits are higher for those who opt for treatment sooner.

Although most consider hormone replacement as a treatment for menopause, estrogen replacement therapy can be used by women of all ages because of the positive benefits it brings to the female body. This treatment has been shown to bring about improvements in:

• Skin tone.
• Concentration and memory.
• Depression and anxiety.
• Low sex drive.
• PMS.
• Osteoporosis.
• Heart disease.

While many of these symptoms are common in the premenopausal stage, women can experience decreased hormone levels for other reasons, such as after receiving treatments that impact or involve the removal of the ovaries. Autoimmune diseases, eating disorders, some genetic conditions and conditions that affect the pituitary gland can also result in decreased hormone levels.

The side effects associated with estrogen therapy for women are very mild and easily managed. Some women report excess hair growth or acne, both of which are treatable. Other side effects may include water weight gain and breast tenderness, which resolve over time.

If you opt for estrogen hormone pellet therapy, the implantation procedure may cause temporary discomfort and slight bruising, which should subside within a few days. There is also a rare risk of infection or pellet extrusion.

The type of bio-identical hormone therapy used, current hormone levels, progression of menopause and a few other factors influence how long it will take for estrogen replacement to take effect. Some patients report feeling the positive effects of estrogen replacement therapy within a couple of days, while others experience relief after a couple of weeks.

To determine if your insurance covers this treatment, you may want to contact your provider. Each patient’s policy is different, so we can’t speak on behalf of your insurance company. In many cases, your Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) can be used for payment.

Even if your insurance does not cover estrogen hormone therapy, it may still be a cost-effective treatment option for you, especially when you consider the benefits and the many different conditions it lessens and prevents.