HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
There is so much information out there about HRT, it can be hard to know where to start - menopause can be difficult for anyone, surgical menopause for those with a hormone sensitivity can be a minefield. Here at IAPMD, we saw the need for clear, factual information for those considering, going through, and recovering from surgery for PMDD/PME, as well as having to navigate life (and hormones!) after. HRT is a big concern for many post-op and, as such, we have collated clear, evidence-based information to help you in your journey.
Important information to note when learning about Hormone Therapy (Natural V Surgical Menopause) :
Recommendations about estrogen use during a surgical menopause ARE DIFFERENT from the recommendations around estrogen in natural menopause. In particular, we know that the risks associated with estrogen use in surgical menopause are much lower than those associated with estrogen use in natural menopause. This is because:
(1) the hormone levels are lower in surgical menopause than in natural menopause, and
(2) individuals who undergo surgical menopause before the age at natural menopause (before 51) have lower baseline health risks than older individuals entering the natural menopause.
Therefore, it is important to make sure that any recommendations that you are following are specific to surgical menopause-- because often the recommendations are quite different. Since most doctors do not receive training in this area, it may also be important to educate your doctor by providing them with evidence-based guidelines for the management of surgical menopause.
See the sections below for learning about HRT in surgical menopause. If you have a specific question, you can search in the IAPMD FAQ knowledge-base. If your question is not answered, you can submit it here and we will get it answered and added.
What is HRT?
All the basics of Hormone Replacement Therapy for those in surgical menopause for PMDD/PME.
All about Estrogen Therapy
If you have had your ovaries removed, you will need estrogen therapy to protect your health in the short and long term.
All about Progestogen Therapy
If you had ovary removal, still have your uterus and are using estrogen-therapy, this section is a must read for you.
HRT - Benefits & Risks
Starting HRT can be daunting but you need to be fully informed of the benefits and risks of using estrogen or combined (estrogen and progestogen) therapy.
Testosterone
After bilateral oophorectomy (surgical menopause) you will experience about a 50% reduction in the amount of testosterone in your body.
FAQ
Still have questions? Check our searchable knowledge-base - full of evidence-based answers. If your question is not answered you can submit it for an answer!
This project was financially assisted by The Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of The Patty Brisben Foundation for Women's Sexual Health.