A controversial topic: hormone therapy

Hormone therapy might be carried out if there are vegetative complaints during menopause or trouble with menstruation.

THERE ARE PLENTY OF REASONS THAT SUPPORT HORMONE THERAPY

For example, bleeding disorders can be normalized through taking hormones. Hormones also have a positive effect on skin and hair. Acne of young girls can be improved through taking the birth control pill. After the menopause hormones have an anti-aging effect for the skin and also for the blood vessels. Dryness in the vaginal area will be reduced and urine incontinence and other bladder problems can be improved. Osteoporosis will be prevented, that means the risk of breaking the neck of femur or a fracture of the vertebra is decreased.

You might feel better when you take hormones during the menopause. Sleeping disorders, mood swings and hot flashes can disappear completely.

There are various options of hormone application: patches, tablets and crèmes. Sometimes there are even options for natural treatment.

OF COURSE, THERE ARE ALSO REASONS THAT SPEAK AGAINST HORMONE THERAPY

Especially the discussion concerning the risk of cancer is in the foreground. There is a small increase of the risk for breast cancer. However, studies have shown that women who take hormones have better prospects for successful treatment through improved early diagnosis and less aggressive tumors.

IF YOU HAVE HORMONE THERAPY, YOU WILL HAVE REGULAR CHECKUPS.

We know that estrogens stimulate the growth of cells. Therefore, any tumor cells that are present are stimulated as well. That is why hormone therapy is accompanied by regular checkups. If you have regular checkups, breast cancer can be detected at an early stage.

In addition to stimulating the growth of cancer cells, the risk of thrombosis is also increased. If you had specific heart or vein diseases, hormones should only be given with an urgent indication.

WEIGHING THE RISKS AND ADVANTAGES GIVES US A SOLUTION

It is very important that hormone therapy is thought through well. Please talk to me about your wishes: Which symptoms do you have? What diseases have you had?

I can advise you so that we will find a good solution. Not every woman needs extra hormones, but those who need them should get an individualized therapy.