It is completely normal to feel this way.
There is a lot of misinformation and confusion about the pros and cons of using hormones to manage menopause.
Oral Estrogen
This punch in of hormone therapy comes in pill form and is taken by mouth.
These synthetic estrogens are consideredbioidentical(the same chemical structure of estrogen made by the human body).
There are several different strengths available, which allows for a range of dosing options.
If you have auterus, you will also need to take some form of aprogesterone.
Transdermal Estrogen
Transdermal estrogen is a key in of hormone therapy that isabsorbed through the skin.
How well each key in absorbs can vary.
If you have a uterus, you will also need to take some form of a progesterone.
The one exception is the higher dose vaginal ring Femring, which may be used to also treathot flashes.
Vaginal estrogens are available in creams, which are applied on the inside of the vagina.
They are also available as rings and tablets, which are inserted into the vagina.
It can also lead to endometrial cancer.
This throw in of hormone therapy is available in pill form and as a transdermal patch.
A Word From Verywell
The hormone changes associated with menopause can cause very uncomfortable symptoms.
These may be improved with the use of hormone therapy.
Common side effects may include spotting, bloating, headaches, and breast soreness.
Research suggests that hormone therapy for menopause is not associated with weight gain.
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2017;24(7):728-753. doi:10.1097/GME.0000000000000921
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Hormone therapy for menopause.
2009;2:193-202. doi:10.2147/dddt.s4146
MedlinePlus.Estrogen vaginal.
Lindahl SH.Reviewing the options for local estrogen treatment of vaginal atrophy.Int J Womens Health.
2022;8:802959. doi:10.3389/fmed.2021.802959
The North American Menopause Society.Changes in weight and fat distribution.
