As you approach menopause, the natural decrease in hormone levels can bring a whirlwind of symptoms that may leave you feeling anything but comfortable. You're not alone if you notice those dreaded hot flashes, night sweats, or mood swings. These symptoms are common during perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause officially starts. At Women's Health Medical Group, our OB/GYNs are menopause management experts offering the most effective symptom relief tailored to every woman. If hot flashes are taking over your daily life and making you feel miserable, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could be the best way to get relief.

Understanding the Menopause Transition

All women go through menopause. The typical starting age in American women is around 51, according to the North American Menopause Society. It can also begin earlier if you have ovary removal (often alongside a hysterectomy) or chemotherapy.

During perimenopause, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, the main female hormones. This hormonal shift leads to changes in your menstrual cycle and can bring on a host of symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and even insomnia. Up to three-quarters of women in perimenopause have hot flashes, making them the most common symptom during this transition.

While hot flashes can vary for every woman, they usually cause:

• The sensation of extreme heat in the face, neck, and chest areas
• Sweating
• Skin flushing
• Rapid heartbeat

Although menopause itself marks the end of menstruation after 12 consecutive months without a period, perimenopause can last for years - and that's far too long to suffer.

Considering HRT For Hot Flashes

HRT relieves hot flashes and other menopause symptoms by restoring your hormone levels. It comes in many forms, including pills, adhesive patches, topical creams, and others. HRT can also help protect against bone loss and osteoporosis during menopause. Combination HRT may also lower the risk of colon cancer in women.

However, it's essential to approach HRT with care. While it can be highly effective, it may carry some risks. Your Women's Health Medical Group doctor works with you to determine the lowest effective dose to manage your hot flashes and other troublesome menopause symptoms. The goal is to help you feel like yourself again while minimizing potential side effects.

HRT Help For Hot Flashes in Ft. Worth, TX

We know how uncomfortable (and downright unbearable) hot flashes can be. If you're feeling overwhelmed, call our office at 817-345-5336 or contact us online to discover if HRT is right for you.