Clearing the Confusion of Hormone Therapy

Eighty percent of women will have menopause symptoms that affect health and quality of life.

If you fall in that group, you may want to talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy. When symptoms become cyclical, it's probably time to start. Typical symptoms include weight gain that doesn't make sense, night sweats, forgetfulness, and difficulty sleeping.

If you still have your uterus, it's advised you take something that has estrogen and progesterone. There should be equal amounts of both hormones in whatever you use.

Systemic hormones go into your bloodstream. Prescribed by physicians, systemic hormones are not advised for those with heart disease, cancer or history of stroke. Systemic hormones are available in IUDs, pills and patches.

Vaginal or topical hormones do not go into the bloodstream. These are typically available as creams and sprays.

Starting hormone replacement 5-10 years from the last period has proven to be good for heart health and bone density. It slows the thickening of the carotid artery, decreasing risk of heart attack and stroke.

In past research studies, women experienced fewer symptoms when they were following good menopause habits. Avoiding sugar, keeping the weight off and working out can help.

Listen in as Dr. Diana Bitner shares what you need to know about hormone replacement therapy.