Information About Menopause Treatment Bethesda MD

By Thomas Long


For women who are troubled by the symptoms of menopause, there are various treatment options available. The most common menopause treatment Bethesda MD is hormone replacement therapy, also known as HRT. This therapy involves replacing the declining estrogen levels in your body which steadily decrease when women begin menopause. The decline in estrogen is the cause of many of the uncomfortable symptoms that women experience, so replacing this hormone often relieves many of the symptoms.

Most gynecologists and family doctors agree that menopause does not require any specific medical treatment. Instead, what they will focus on is relieving the uncomfortable signs and symptoms that can arise during this time. Many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular periods and joint and muscle pain during menopause. Some women also experience depression, anxiety and other emotional disturbances due to the hormone imbalances which can occur. It is important to not only treat these symptoms but to prevent any debilitating chronic conditions from occurring as the woman ages.

HRT can relieve symptoms such as irritability, hot flashes and night sweats. However, women should be aware that there many be some side effects, such as headaches, breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding. There is also an increased risk of developing blood clots or certain types of cancer. It is wise to speak with your doctor before starting HRT to learn about the benefits and risks of this treatment so that you can decide if it is right for you.

Vaginal estrogen is often used to relieve vaginal dryness, which many women experience when their estrogen levels decline. This can be used directly on the vagina as a vaginal cream, or it may be taken as a tablet. Some estrogen therapy is given as a ring that is inserted inside the vagina to release the hormone. Whichever method is used, only a small amount of estrogen is released into the body, which is then absorbed by the vaginal tissues to relieve dryness. This can also help women who experience discomfort during intercourse or have other painful urinary symptoms.

Certain antidepressants in low doses may also help to decrease menopausal hot flashes. This medication may be given to women who are unable to take estrogen therapy for various health reasons or are suffering from a mood disorder and who require an antidepressant to manage it.

Gabapentin, which is typically used to treat seizures, has also been proven to help reduce hot flashes. As with antidepressants, gabapentin can be used by women who are unable to have estrogen therapy or suffer from migraines.

Although testosterone is the male sex hormone, it can sometimes help women to restore their natural sex drive. Testosterone is not currently licensed for women to use, however, your doctor can prescribed it if they believe it will help you. There are certain side effects to using testosterone supplements, such as unwanted hair growth and acne.

Before choosing any type of treatment for menopause, patients should talk with their doctor about the various options available. It is important that women know the risks and benefits that are associated with each of these treatment options and make changes when necessary.




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