If you have considered hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or it has been recommended to you by your doctor, you may have a variety of concerns and questions. Estrogen replacement therapy or testosterone replacement therapy are well-studied treatments, but patients may still be skeptical about their legitimacy. How long does it take these treatments to work? Are there risks? Regeneration Health understands these concerns, especially for those who are already experiencing rapidly changing hormones and uncomfortable symptoms.
For those approaching menopause, male hypogonadism, older age, or experiencing another hormonal imbalance, HRT may be recommended to help restore balance. Before you take part in testosterone replacement therapy or estrogen replacement therapy, we want to give you all the information you may need. Here are some common questions revolving around HRT and more about the treatments.
What Is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy is used for men who have low testosterone or male hypogonadism, often caused by malfunctions in the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. TRT is a manufactured form of testosterone that is used to help improve libido, energy levels, and overall wellness. Testosterone replacement therapy comes in many different forms, including skin gels, injections, patches, pellets, tablets, or nasal gel.
What Is Estrogen Replacement Therapy?
Estrogen replacement therapy is used to treat low estrogen that is primarily found in menopausal women. A variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances like menopause, PMOS, cancer, and more, can cause low estrogen. ERT is helpful in relieving symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and inconsistent cycles, but it can also help prevent bone loss due to osteoporosis. ERT can be given in many forms, including pills, skin patches, creams, or a ring. Whole-body hormone therapy is used to treat symptoms of menopause, while low-dose vaginal estrogen is used to treat only vaginal and urinary symptoms.
Are There Side Effects To HRT?
Yes, most patients who get HRT can feel a little off for the first few days after starting treatment. Some report feeling nauseous, having a headache, or experiencing tenderness across their body.
Common side effects of estrogen replacement therapy include:
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Nausea
- Unexpected vaginal spotting
- Extra fluid retention in the hands, feet, and ankles
- Changes in cervical mucus
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Increased risk of breast cancer
- Gallbladder issues
It is important to note that many of these symptoms are not normal. Mild side effects like headache and spotting are more common and typically resolve, but if you are experiencing serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Common side effects of testosterone replacement therapy include:
- Acne or oily skin
- Breast enlargement or tenderness
- Smaller testicles
- Swelling in ankles
- Stimulation of prostate, leading to urinary symptoms
- Sleep apnea
- Increased blood thickness
- Decreased sperm count
Continue to meet with your doctor while receiving treatments to track any changes in your other organs, blood thickness, and monitor your symptoms.
How Long Will It Take For Me To See Results?
For both TRT and ERT, it can take multiple weeks before you start to notice results. The body may take some time to adjust to these new hormones, especially if you are experiencing severe symptoms. Healthcare providers will tell patients to wait at least 30 days before checking their hormone levels to compare. If patients don’t notice improvement in their symptoms after 3-6 months, it is time to review your treatment plan, as low testosterone or estrogen may not be the cause of your symptoms.
Is HRT Safe If I Have Other Health Conditions?
Other health concerns that are unaddressed before HRT could make you unable to recieve these treatments. TRT can be dangerous for those who have untreated heart failure, obstructive sleep apnea, elevated red blood cell counts, or prostate cancer. Existing health conditions make the use of TRT unsafe for many patients, which is why you should have extensive evaluations before starting HRT.
Similarly, ERT can worsen existing health conditions such as frequent blood clots, high blood pressure, liver disease, and estrogen-sensitive cancers. For some patients, lowering the amount of estrogen that is administered may make it possible for patients to recieve treatment without additional health concerns.
Does HRT Cause Cancer?
While testosterone replacement therapy and estrogen replacement therapy don’t directly cause cancer, there is some elevated risk for certain cancers. The degree of risk depends on how long you are seeking treatment and the dosage. The healthcare provider giving you HRT should be on the lookout for cancer signs and understand your medical history before starting HRT to limit cancer risk.
Some cancers that could affect patients of TRT and ERT include:
- Endometrial cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Male breast cancer
HRT Services From Regeneration Health
At Regeneration Health, we know how important hormones are to the body and our daily life. The production of a hormone in the body can affect your memory, cognitive focus, libido, mood, and energy levels. Hormone replacement therapy can help you address uncomfortable symptoms that are caused by hormonal imbalance. Our team of experts can help you achieve optimal results with minimal side effects. Our holistic approach to HRT considers all aspects of your health to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation and learn if we would be the best fit for your needs.