For women, Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an aid for alleviating the symptoms of menopause or preventing osteoporosis. Synthetic hormones, made in laboratories, are introduced to the body for preventing or treating some medical conditions; these are man–made yet act very similar to the hormones produced by the body. Through the years, medical practitioners continuously prescribed HRT with the anticipation for breakthroughs in osteoporosis, heart disease or cancer prevention in addition to easing symptoms of menopause.1

HRT can be taken differently in several ways. First, by prescription tablets that contains estrogen. Generally oral medication takes place within 28 – day cycles. Progestin is paired up with this typically for the last 10 to 14 days. It’s usual effect is bleeding compared to a monthly menstruation. Second, small estrogen implant pellets can be introduced beneath the skin surrounding the abdomen or buttock. This process is gradual wherein the estrogen is slowly absorbed into the blood. It is good for around four to eight months. Third, estrogen and progestin can come in transparent adhesive skin patches that can be put directly on surfaces of the body such as below the waist like the hip. It can still be useful and unchanged for about a week. Fourth, estrogen creams are also available. They can treat vaginal dryness and irritation. This cream is rubbed inside the vagina. Lastly, estrogen gels are also available. Several women prefer using this since it is more convenient to use and they feel that they can control the hormone therapy.2

Women in the menopause can benefit from Hormone Replacement Therapy. Some of the known advantages from HRT are to prevent heart disease, osteoporosis and some cancers that are not easily detected. However, the most important amongst advantages is to control menopause symptoms. During menopause a woman’s body experiences a decline in the production of estrogen. Usually hot flashes, night sweats and sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, development of hair on the face, muscle tone in the bladder and urethra is lost, skin changes and probably the most annoying experience is mood swing. These greatly impact the daily life of a woman one way or another. For example, since bladder muscle tone degenerates, the urge of urination increases and even for simple actions like sneezing, laughing or coughing, urine leakage most likely occurs.3

On the other hand, Hormone Replacement Therapy has it’s share from different speculations. Reports claim that estrogen combination therapies contribute to blood clots that result to pulmonary embolism. Others question the potential risks that are related to HRT. However, medical experts acknowledge the intuition that benefits of HRT somehow outweigh the risks.4

References.

"Hormone Replacement Therapy -- Familydoctor.org." Health Information for the Whole Family -- Familydoctor.org. American Academy of Family Physicians, Dec. 2002. Web. 19 June 2011. http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/women/reproductive/menopause/738.html

"How Is HRT Taken?" EhealthMD. 29 Jan. 2011. 20 June 2011 .

"What Are The Benefits Of HRT?" EhealthMD. 29 Jan. 2011. HONcode health. 23 June 2011 .

"What Are The Risks Of HRT?" EhealthMD. 29 Jan. 2011. HONcode health. 23 June 2011 .