The menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life that marks the end of reproductive functions. It is characterized by hormonal changes, including a decline in estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels. These hormones are usually produced in the ovaries, but as they decrease in numbers, the function of the ovaries deplete also, ceasing menstruation and ovulation.
Due to reduced levels of estrogen in the blood stream as a result, this transition can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, memory loss, and changes in metabolism.
What is HRT?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment option for managing menopausal symptoms. It involves the use of medications that contain hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA to supplement the body’s declining hormone levels. It often comes in gels, creams, patches, and oral medications, and can be the national standard or uniquely personalised depending on where you are treated.
Standard HRT treatments, like the treatments some women can get from their GPs, is a general prescription used for every menopausal woman consisting of estrogen and progesterone.
Bodyline, specialist menopause clinics offer a more personalised approach to HRT prescribing based on blood tests and analysis, targeting the deficiencies specific to each woman. The HRT prescriptions from Bodyline include estrogen, progesterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and testosterone, as well as vitamins D and B12 which are also incredibly beneficial for combatting difficult menopause symptoms. This personalised treatment, what we call our gold standard M Plan, is available fully supported for both perimenopausal and menopausal women.
If you are wondering if it is better to go through the menopause with or without the help of HRT, we want to lay out all the information to help better inform your decision. That’s because even though HRT is designed to alleviate the difficult symptoms associated with the menopause, not all women choose to opt for this treatment.
How Can Hormones Be Balanced Naturally?
While HRT is a common approach to managing menopausal symptoms, some women may choose to balance their hormones naturally. It can be argued that this can be achieved through lifestyle modifications and alternative therapies, however studies show that with herbal and alternative remedies the evidence is mixed.
The strategies for balancing hormones naturally include:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, ensuring foods are rich in phytoestrogens, calcium, and vitamin D
- Engaging in regular exercise to support overall health and hormone regulation to maintain a moderate weight, as those who can lose weight reduce hot flashes
- Managing stress through techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
- Getting enough sleep to support hormone production and overall well-being
- Taking supplements to replace the vitamins and minerals depleting with age
- Exploring herbal remedies and supplements that may help alleviate menopausal symptoms.
However, it is important to note that natural hormone balancing methods may not be as effective for severe symptoms, and consulting with a healthcare professional or menopause specialist is recommended. Many women cannot improve their menopausal symptoms with just vitamins, supplements, and lifestyle changes alone. This is why a lot of women would rather use HRT.
Going Through the Menopause with HRT vs Without HRT
The decision to go through the menopause with or without HRT is a personal one and should be based on an individual’s unique circumstances, medical history, and her preferences.
If you are struggling to decide whether or not to make use of HRT, here are the benefits and considerations that it’s important to take note of before making any decision.
Benefits of HRT:
- Alleviation of a multitude of your personal menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, depression, and vaginal dryness – bespoke HRT targets the hormone deficiencies precisely to directly reduce the impact and the symptoms you experience
- Improved mood stability and significantly reduced risk of mood swings – with over half of all menopausal women experiencing changes in mood, HRT is a great response to this
- Prevention of bone strength loss and reduced risk of osteoporosis – as bone health decreases through the menopause, calcium and vitamin D is not always enough to prevent osteoporosis
- Potential improvement in sleep quality – due to decreased hot flashes and night sweats, sleep quality can be improved significantly
- Relief from vaginal discomfort and improved sexual health.
- Some women cannot manage their menopause symptoms with diet and vitamins alone
- When used alongside the strategies for balancing hormones outlined above, HRT can help women completely transform their lives by reaching their optimal health
Risks and Considerations of HRT:
- Increased risk of certain health conditions, such as breast cancer, blood clots, and stroke – the magnitude of these risks depends on factors such as age, duration of HRT use, and individual health history, it’s always crucial to speak to your GP or a health professional before considering HRT
- HRT may not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions or a history of certain diseases – breast cancer, thrombosis, diabetes, and liver disease can all impact your suitability for HRT, so it is vital to disclose your medical history
- Hormonal changes during HRT can cause side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating, and mood changes – however, with fully supported programmes these side effects can be eliminated with testing and prescription titrating across your HRT journey
- Regular monitoring and follow-ups with specialist menopause professionals are necessary to ensure the appropriate use of HRT – your base hormone levels will fluctuate throughout the menopause, so monitoring ensures you remain at the optimum levels throughout
Contact Bodyline today to find out more about our hormone replacement therapy treatments
Can Blood Tests Help Women Get Through the Menopause?
Blood tests can provide valuable insights into hormone levels and overall health during the menopause. They give healthcare professionals a benchmark to help them assess hormonal imbalances, identify deficiencies, and guide treatment decisions. Blood tests can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.
By analysing hormone levels, blood tests can provide objective data that supports personalized treatment plans. This information can help women navigate the menopause with more precise and targeted care.
What’s more, thanks to Bodyline M Plan Blood testing kits, you don’t even need to come into our Northwestern clinics – blood tests can be delivered straight to your door, and once posted to an independent laboratory who can analyse the results, we can advise clients on the best treatment plans for them over video call.
Bodyline’s M Plan
Bodyline offers the M Plan, a comprehensive medical wellness program designed to support women during the menopause. The M Plan encompasses various aspects of menopause management alongside bespoke hormone replacement therapy, including personalized guidance on lifestyle modifications, nutrition, vitamin supplement recommendations and exercise, with total support throughout.
With the M Plan, women have access to specialized menopause nurses who can assess individual needs, conduct blood tests, and develop personalized treatment plans. The program offers ongoing support, monitoring, and adjustments to ensure optimal results. Here at Bodyline, we understand that each woman’s journey through the menopause is unique and strives to provide tailored solutions.
The decision to go through the menopause with or without HRT is a personal one. Both approaches have benefits and considerations that should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Blood tests can provide valuable insights and support personalized treatment plans. With the guidance and support of programs like Bodyline’s M Plan, women can navigate the menopause with confidence and well-being.
If you’re looking for personalized support and guidance on managing the menopause, contact Bodyline today at 0800 995 6036 or visit our website to learn more about our comprehensive medical wellness programs.
