What Are The Signs That You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Published March 17th, 2023
Hormones play a vital role in our bodily functions. That’s why hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is currently gaining popularity for its many benefits.
But, obviously, HRT isn’t for everyone. And abusing it may cause more harm than good.
So how do you know if it’s time to get one? What are the signs that you need hormone replacement therapy?
To help you decide whether hormone replacement therapy is for you, we’re listing down the telltale signs that you need one. But first, you need to understand how hormone replacement therapy works.
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy is a treatment designed to replace lost hormones. It’s commonly used to relieve symptoms of menopause in women and low testosterone levels in men.
As mentioned, our hormones play a crucial role in our health. But aging and certain medical conditions can cause our body to produce less of certain types of hormones. This leads to hormonal imbalance, causing various health issues.
For women, the decrease in estrogen levels can cause symptoms of menopause. While low testosterone levels in men can lead to reproductive health issues, among others.
By replacing lost hormones, HRT can restore normal hormone balance. This, in turn, helps your body resume its natural functions and reduces the symptoms of hormone imbalance.
Signs That You Need Hormone Replacement Therapy
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance vary between men and women. So depending on your gender, here are the signs that you need hormone replacement therapy:
Men
Hormone replacement therapy can help increase testosterone levels in men. While men’s testosterone levels typically decrease with age, some have naturally low testosterone.
As such, men will benefit from hormone replacement therapy if they’re experiencing low testosterone (male hypogonadism) symptoms. This includes:
- erectile dysfunction
- low or zero sperm count
- reduced sex drive
- testicular atrophy (shrinking testicles)
- hair loss in the armpit and pubic areas
- hot flashes
- gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissues)
Some common symptoms of aging may also be caused by male hypogonadism, such as:
- decrease in muscle mass
- loss of strength
- reduced endurance
- increase in body fat
- memory and concentration problems
- increase in body fat
Women
In women, hormone replacement therapy is used to relieve symptoms of menstruation. However, these symptoms can vary for each woman.
Some may go through menopause without any obvious symptoms. While others may experience symptoms so severe that it affects their quality of life.
As such, you’ll need hormone replacement therapy if you’re experiencing severe:
- vaginal dryness
- reduced sex drive
- hot flushes
- severe mood swings
- insomnia
- hair loss
- concentration and memory problems
- irregular periods
- exhaustion and fatigue
Women who go through menopause at an early age (premature menopause) are also ideal candidates for estrogen therapy.
When Should You Start Getting HRT?
Women’s estrogen levels may change during menopause. But it actually starts going haywire during the perimenopausal (menopausal transition) stage. During this, you may experience early signs of menopause.
That’s why it’s best to get hormone replacement therapy even at the perimenopausal stage. It will stabilize your estrogen levels, helping you avoid severe menopause symptoms.
Men, on the other hand, slowly begin losing testosterone when they reach middle age. This usually happens in their 50s. Though some men under 30 may also suffer from low testosterone.
In short, there’s really no right age for men to start getting testosterone therapy. Instead, you should listen more carefully to your body. You can also get a total testosterone test to make sure that your symptoms are indeed caused by a lack of testosterone.
Which Type of Hormone Therapy is Best For You?
Hormone replacement therapy comes in different forms. It can be in tablets, skin patches, topical creams, or implants, among others. The right type of hormone therapy will depend on your symptoms, age, and preference. If you’re not sure, you can talk to us, and we’ll help you create a hormone therapy treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Choose Boca Raton’s Finest IV Therapy & Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialists
Experience exceptional health and well-being with personalized IV therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Discover a new level of vitality personalized for both men and women. Let us be your dedicated healthcare partner in providing support and guidance as we work together towards well-being. Contact us to book a consultation at our Boca Raton offices.
About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional blogger for the South Florida Allied Health website. She lives in the Philippines and enjoys quality time with her friends and family when not working. She is committed to providing the most up to date, expert approved, factual content on the topics she writes about.
