Personalized Menopause Medications: Tailoring Medications to Individual Needs and Preferences

What is Menopause?

If a woman does not get their period for 12 straight months, it signifies menopause has occurred. Menopause means the “end of the menstrual cycle.” It is pretty uncertain at what age menopause would start. It generally begins at 40; in some cases, it could extend to the 60’s. The symptoms of menopause can be experienced ten years before the last menstruation. The body undergoes various gradual transformations, such as reduced Ovarian function and minimal secretion of reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. The shortage of these hormones causes menopausal symptoms. During menopause, even the ovaries stop releasing eggs for fertilization.

Symptoms of Menopause

The menopausal transition or perimenopause brings along various discomforts to most women. However, these unpleasant symptoms can be relieved by seeking specialist advice. A few of the menopause symptoms are mentioned below.

Hot Flashes:

It is one of the most common symptoms of menopause and usually occurs in the head and chest area. It may be accompanied by night sweats, which could hinder sleep and leave you feeling irritated during the day. Hot flashes last a few seconds to several minutes; women experience this symptom for about 4 to 5 years.

Mood Swings:

With reduced production of estrogen hormones in the body, hormonal changes can lead to irritability and mood swings. Even disturbed sleep can impact your cognitive abilities.

Irregular Menstrual Cycle:

During the menstrual transition, women experience less frequent menstrual periods. Even the duration might vary, and the amount could range from heavy to light. However, it’s essential to see your doctor to determine that these symptoms are due to perimenopause and not because of any underlying health condition.

Vaginal Itching and Dryness:

Decreased secretion of estrogen and progesterone causes thinning of the vaginal tissue lining, which causes vaginal dryness and itching. It may also result in painful sexual intercourse.

Stress:

Any woman experiencing the above symptoms may be distressed, ranging from mild to severe.

Upon your healthcare provider’s approval, you may consider buying menopause medication online to tackle menopause symptoms, which may appear on and off.

Possible Treatment for Menopause Symptoms

Since the menopause symptoms and suffering are different among women, they need personalized treatment most suitable for their bodies. The body’s response to each drug could differ among individuals, so the doctor would conduct a thorough risk assessment before suggesting a treatment plan. The most efficacious treatment is hormone replacement Therapy (HRT), which has been explained below.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

One of the significant treatments for menopause is hormone replacement therapy. After the onset of menopause, the body produces reduced or no estrogen, which results in brain fog, hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal itching, and dryness. These symptoms can be treated with HRT, which makes up for the deficient estrogen. When the estrogen level rises, it relieves the aforementioned menopausal symptoms. However, there are risks associated with it, such as stroke, cardiovascular disease, and enhanced risk of breast cancer with its prolonged use. These risks vary depending on age and duration since menopause. It is, therefore, necessary that you consult your healthcare provider before beginning this therapy.

Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

The two types of Hormone Replacement Therapy are Estrogen-only Therapy and Combination Therapy (estrogen and progesterone). Your doctor will determine the most suitable therapy based on your age, symptoms, and past and existing medical condition.

Estrogen Therapy

Estrogen-only therapy contains only estrogen. The doctor would prescribe a lower dose initially that could be increased later based on the results. Estrogen is available in various forms, such as pills, patches, gels, creams, and implants. Women can choose from any of the most convenient and suitable options for them. Women who have had their wombs removed are mainly prescribed estrogen-only therapy as the risks associated with it are less as compared to combination therapy.

Combination Therapy

It is the type of HRT that contains both estrogen and progesterone (called progestin in synthetic form). Women experiencing menopause symptoms and who have their uterus intact are generally suggested combination therapy. The uterus requires progestin as it minimizes the risk of Uterine cancer. The combination therapy is available in tablets, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and patches. Women may choose any of these options in consultation with their doctor.

Ways to Administer HRT

Hormone replacement therapy can be taken in 2 ways, as mentioned below.

Systemic Hormone Therapy:

Under this form of therapy, the hormone travels to the required organs and tissues through the bloodstream. Some examples of Systemic therapy are gel, spray, tablets, and patches. The treatment works well to treat menopausal symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes.

Local Hormone Therapy:

When the product is applied to a particular area, it stands for local hormone therapy. It comes in the form of vaginal suppositories, rings, and creams. Local treatment is suitable for treating menopausal symptoms of vaginal dryness.

Before you buy menopause (HRT) treatment online, it’s important that you inform your doctor. HRT, although beneficial in relieving the symptoms of menopause, has its own risks and side effects.

Takeaways

Apart from HRT, menopause symptoms can also be treated with medication and lifestyle changes. If you are someone experiencing menopausal symptoms, it could be difficult to decide which option to go with, HRT or medications. Before you jump to a conclusion, seek advice from your healthcare provider to understand the positives and adversaries linked to each option. You may then opt for the most appropriate form. Your doctor may recommend other alternative treatments that might be more suitable for you.