Estrogen Therapy – Necessity, Benefits and Risks

Estrogen therapy, also referred to as Estrogen replacement therapy, assists in restoring hormonal balance in the body of women during the reproductive cycle, resulting from temporary state of menopause or ovarian removal following hysterectomy. Once extra estrogen is supplied to the body of patients through patches, injections or oral administration, it can serve to reduce signs and symptoms resulting from low estrogen levels.

Why is Estrogen Therapy Necessary?

A lack of the estrogen hormone affects various tissues, organs and systems. The central nervous system (CNS), vasculature, uterus, breast, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, bone and liver are affected by estrogen deficiency. At the time of estrogen deficiency, like in menopausal transition, the effects get more prominent.

What are the Benefits of Estrogen Therapy?

Only a small quantity of oxygen has to be entered into the body of women with their ovaries removed, as compared to what is required in women suffering from menopause. With this type of therapy, women have lowered risks of osteoporosis, reduced risks of itching in the region surrounding the vagina, lowered vaginal dryness and lowered hot flashes.

Risks of Estrogen Therapy

Unless administered with proper care, there can be various risks associated with this kind of therapy. There is higher risk of liver damage, breast cancer, stroke, blood clots in leg and lung and heart attack. In some cases, there is abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Types of Estrogen Hormones Used in Therapy

There are 3 important types of estrogen hormones which are used in therapy. Estrone is produced in muscles and body fat and is manufactured by the adrenal glands. Estradiol, which is manufactured in the ovaries, can be substituted with a synthetic estrogen known as entinyl estradiol and its effects resemble those of estradiol. One more estrogen hormone is Estriol, which is manufactured by the placenta. It is manufactured during pregnancy in high amounts. It is essential for the development and good health of the fetus.

How is Estrogen Therapy Done?

The therapy is done through oral tablets, gels, skin creams, skin patches, vaginal tablets, vaginal rings, vaginal creams, skin spray and more. These are among the various kinds of estrogen replacement therapies which are approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). These are very useful for controlling the varied symptoms and signs of menopause. Keep in mind that ERT is only one of the treatment methods used for curing menopausal symptoms. Consultation with a doctor is necessary in order to understand the right options for yourself.

DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.