What hormones are prescribed during menopause? Changes in hormonal levels during menopause. Hormonal changes
This period is characterized by a gradual loss of a woman's ability to become pregnant. This is due to the cessation of the production of female hormones by the ovaries, which contribute to maturation, fertilization, as well as the fixation of the egg in the body of the uterus.
The extinction of the reproductive function leads to changes in the whole body - the systems of vital organs adapt to work in a different mode.
This is due to the fact that female sex hormones affect not only the genitals, but also determines the coordinated work of other systems. With their deficiency, the functions of organs are restructured.
Changes in the body of a woman with menopause
Any changes in the functioning of the body during menopause are reflected not only in the work of internal organs - the external characteristics of the skin, hair, nails and figure as a whole undergo certain transformations:
- from the female genital area. Since estrogen stops being produced in sufficient quantities, the follicles in the ovaries do not mature. Ovulation does not occur, fertilization does not occur. The follicles in the ovaries are increasingly replaced by connective tissue;
- from the side of the skin. The inner walls of the vagina, as well as all tissues in the body, including the outer skin, lose their elasticity, since this indicator is provided by estrogens. The mucous secretion also ceases to be produced, which is why it intensifies. Vessels lose their elasticity, wrinkles appear on the skin. A decrease in collagen synthesis due to a decrease in estrogen production causes dry and sagging skin;
- from the genitals. The uterine tubes become overgrown over time, which prevents the egg from passing through them. Its internal cavity is gradually overgrown with connective tissue, the body of the uterus becomes smaller. The external labia lose their tone due to the replacement of fat cells with connective tissue. Hair on the pubic part becomes less;
- from the cardiovascular system. The work of the heart and blood vessels will become more complicated due to an increase in cholesterol. Estrogen helps dissolve cholesterol deposits, and with a lack of hormone, it is more difficult for the vessels to cope with the load, which affects the work of the heart;
- from the mammary glands. The fat layer in the breast is replaced by connective tissue, which can provoke a decrease in breast tone. With a large size, the breasts may increase, with a small size, they may sag. The shape changes, the size of the gland may change;
- from the side of the bone. Tissue density decreases due to hormonal disruptions. A common disease in menopause is osteoporosis. The older the woman, the more fragility and porosity of the bones.
Menopause can also affect the work of other organs (thyroid gland, liver, digestive organs).
All changes negatively affect the nervous system. The psychological and emotional mood changes for the worse due to the manifestation of menopausal symptoms.
What happens to hormones
NOTE!
It must be understood that short-term use of synthetic estrogens may not have negative consequences, however, with long-term use, the risk of developing pathological processes increases significantly.
Types of HRT
Hormone therapy involves the replacement of natural organic elements in the body with hormones in case of their deficiency and can be of the following types:
- substitution. Replenishes the deficiency of the missing hormone. It involves the use of small doses of the drug to compensate for the missing elements. Treatment may be short-term or long-term;
- pathogenetic. It involves taking high doses of hormonal drugs and limited treatment time;
- suppressive(overwhelming). Hormones are aimed at suppressing the function of a pathologically developing gland. Most often, this type is used for prostate cancer in men and is not related to the course of menopause.
Depending on the composition of hormonal agents, glucocorticoids and thyroid-stimulating agents, hormonal contraceptives and other hormonal preparations can be used.
Therapy can be long-term or short-term. The duration of treatment depends on the symptoms and severity of the menopause.
Basic drugs
Common replacement therapy is a new generation of drugs that have a minimum of side effects, and also successfully cope with the symptoms of menopause.
Here is a list that lists to combat the symptoms of menopause at this time:
- . Anticlimacteric agent. The active substance is estradiol. The drug contains gray and pink tablets, they contain different amounts of the active substance. The drug is intended to eliminate the symptoms of menopause, as well as to prevent the development of osteoporosis. Has contraindications. Dosage of the drug - once a day. Depending on the presence and course of menstruation, it is possible to additionally use progesterone;
- . Contains estrogen and progestin. Contains yellow and brown dragees. The drug restores the menstrual cycle, helps eliminate vegetative problems associated with menopause, increase the amount of collagen in the skin, and lower cholesterol. Treatment involves taking the remedy for 21 days according to the scheme indicated in the appendix;
- . The product is available in tablets and drops. Refers to phytotherapeutic agents. Contains dry extract of cimicifuga plant. Tablets or drops are taken once every two days. The doctor can determine the duration of the course of taking the remedy, depending on individual characteristics;
- . Contains gray-pink tablets (28 pieces per pack), which contain estradiol and drospirenone. The drug is indicated for HRT during menopause, as well as to prevent the development of osteoporosis. Reception should be done once a day at the same time.
- The mental state is stabilized. Thanks to the pills, you will be able to normalize sleep, get rid of irritability and panic attacks.
- The symptom of frequent urination disappears. Medicines have a beneficial effect on the mucous membrane of the urinary tract.
- The withdrawal of calcium and the destruction of bone tissue, characteristic of the menopause, are stopped.
- The action of the pills is aimed at increasing the female libido, so they will help prolong the sex life.
- The level of cholesterol in the blood goes down because the pills affect lipid metabolism. Vessels become stronger, the risk of atherosclerosis is reduced.
- Tablets prevent vaginal atrophy, the appearance of a feeling of dryness.
- The tides flow softer, do not cause too much discomfort.
- Synthetic hormones that are bioidentical to natural ones. Drugs work on the principle of substitution.
- Synthetic, not adjacent in structure to natural. Medicines do not replace natural hormones, however, they have a pharmacological effect.
- Phytohormones. They are of plant origin, contain a small concentration of natural hormones. They are used when hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is prohibited or has given side effects. Basically, they are homeopathic medicines. Affordable and safe.
- Hormone extracts. Extracted from the endocrine glands of animals.
- Short-term. Hormonal drugs for menopausal syndrome are prescribed for a year or two to eliminate certain symptoms.
- Long term. It is used for severe menopause. Lasts four to ten years.
- Monotherapeutic. They contain either estrogen or progestogen.
- Combined new generation. Contains several hormones. Their price is higher.
- breast cancer;
- malignant tumors of the uterus, ovaries;
- thrombosis, thromboembolism;
- uterine myoma;
- diabetes mellitus;
- nervous disorders;
- autoimmune diseases;
- endometriosis;
- uterine bleeding of unknown nature;
- diseases of the liver, kidneys;
- rehabilitation after a heart attack, stroke;
- heart problems.
- determination of the level of follicle-stimulating hormones;
- blood chemistry;
- examination for osteoporosis;
- Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
- measurement of blood pressure;
- calculation of body mass index;
- mammography;
- test for tumor markers;
- determination of endometrial thickness.
- timely appointment and cancellation of hormonal drugs for menopause;
- indications for hormone therapy;
- the use of microdoses of drugs from which undesirable effects will not appear;
- selection of drugs and its dosage, based on the results of a blood test for sex hormones;
- the appointment of drugs, which include exclusively natural hormones;
- strict adherence by the patient to the recommendations of the attending doctor.
- consider the use of hormone therapy unnatural, since menopause is a physiological process;
- do not want to take hormonal drugs, because they consider them unnatural;
- afraid to get better
- afraid of addiction;
- afraid of the appearance of hair in unwanted places;
- think that hormonal agents damage the gastric mucosa;
- It is believed that taking drugs with sex hormones increases the risk of developing malignant neoplasms in the female body.
- pathological menopause, which developed as a result of the removal of the uterus, the use of chemotherapeutic agents or radiation treatment;
- menopause in women under 40;
- too pronounced signs of menopause;
- the development of complications and diseases that appeared against the background of menopause (hypertension, atherosclerosis, polycystic ovaries, dryness of the vaginal mucosa, urinary incontinence, and others);
- the desire of the patient to eliminate unpleasant symptoms.
- increased fatigue;
- emotional lability;
- swelling;
- weight gain;
- flatulence;
- mastopathy;
- breast tumors;
- severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome;
- painful menstruation;
- anovulatory menstrual cycle;
- the development of benign tumors in the uterus and appendages;
- uterine bleeding;
- increased risk.
- allergy to the components of the hormonal drug;
- malignant neoplasms of the mammary glands and female genital organs, including a history;
- metrorrhagia;
- thrombophilia;
- stroke;
- myocardial infarction;
- varicose veins and blood clots in the veins of the lower extremities;
- increased blood coagulation;
- hypertension of the third stage;
- severe liver disease (cirrhosis, liver failure, hepatitis);
- autoimmune diseases (scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus and others).
- endometriosis;
- uterine fibroids;
- migraine;
- epilepsy;
- precancerous diseases of the uterus and mammary glands;
- calculous cholecystitis and cholelithiasis.
- Angelica - 1300 rubles;
- Klimen - 1280 rubles;
- Femoston - 940 rubles;
- Kliminorm - 850 rubles;
- Divina - 760 rubles;
- Ovidon - the drug is not yet commercially available;
- Climodien - 2500 rubles;
- Activel - the drug is not commercially available;
- Cliogest - 1780 rubles.
- eliminate anxiety, improve mood, activate memory and improve sleep;
- increase the tone of the muscles of the sphincter of the bladder;
- retain calcium in bone tissue;
- prevent the development of periodontal disease;
- restore the endometrium;
- eliminate dryness of the mucous membranes of the genital organs;
- normalize blood cholesterol levels.
- Divigel - 620 rubles;
- Estrogel - 780 rubles;
- Octodiol - the drug is not commercially available;
- Menorest - the drug is not commercially available;
- Proginova - 590 rubles.
- Estraderm - the drug is not commercially available;
- Alora - 250 rubles;
- Klimara - 1214 rubles;
- Estramon - 5260 rubles;
- Menostar.
- ease of dosage selection;
- the gradual penetration of estrogen into the blood;
- the hormone enters directly into the bloodstream without passing through the liver;
- maintaining a balance of different types of estrogen;
- minimal risk of side effects;
- can be used even if there are contraindications to the appointment of estrogens.
- Tablets and dragees:
- Duphaston - 550 rubles;
- Utrozhestan - 4302 rubles;
- Norkolut - 130 rubles;
- Iprozhin - 380 rubles.
- Gels and vaginal suppositories:
- Utrozhestan;
- Crinon - 2450 rubles;
- Progestogel - 900 rubles;
- Prajisan - 260 rubles;
- progesterone gel.
- Intrauterine hormonal systems:
- Mirena - 12500 rubles.
- vaginal suppositories and tablets should be taken at the same time of day, as directed by your doctor.
- basically, all hormones are prescribed daily or cyclically, that is, 21 days with seven-day breaks;
- if the patient forgot to take the drug, then the usual dose should be taken within the next 12 hours, and the next pill at the appointed time;
- it is strictly forbidden to independently change the dose of the drug or the drug itself;
- you can not take the hormone for life;
- during hormone therapy, you need to regularly visit a gynecologist - once every six months.
- hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating);
- menopausal vertigo (dizziness);
- hot flashes during menopause;
- dryness of the mucous membranes of the vagina;
- mood swings;
- and others.
- natural origin of the components;
- relatively low cost;
- there are practically no side effects, only an allergy to the components of the product;
- safety of use in the elderly.
- Remens - 580 rubles. The drug consists of soy phytohormones, which activate the synthesis of sex hormones at the level of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Remens effectively relieves a woman of hot flashes during menopause and prevents the appearance of vaginitis. In addition, with the help of Remens, you can prevent urinary incontinence and cystitis during menopause.
- Estrovel - 385 rubles. This preparation contains phytoestrogens of soy and wild yam, as well as a complex of vitamins and microelements. Estrovel allows you to reduce the number and reduce the intensity of hot flashes and sweating.
- Feminal - 670 rubles. This preparation contains liquid extracts of nettle, oregano, celandine, hawthorn, shepherd's purse herb, centaury, St. John's wort, thyme, celandine and calendula. Feminal helps to get rid of hot flashes, excessive sweating, emotional lability and dizziness during menopause, and women do not get better from this medicine.
- Climaxin - 120 rubles. This remedy consists of sepia, lachesis and cimicifuga. The action of Climaxin is mainly aimed at regulating vegetative-vascular disorders (insomnia, irritability, palpitations, excessive sweating, dizziness) during menopause.
- Klimakt-Hel - 400 rubles. This drug perfectly eliminates the symptoms caused by menopause.
- deterioration of the skin condition (the skin becomes thin, less elastic);
- dryness of the vagina;
- decreased libido;
- violation of the statics of the reproductive organ and urinary incontinence;
- mood swings and a tendency to decrease it;
- irritability;
- fast fatiguability;
- deterioration of memory and concentration;
- increased risk of osteoporosis;
- tendency to corpulence.
- prevention of the development of cancer, for example, of the prostate and breast, due to antioxidant properties, inhibition of the development of cancer cells;
- relief of ailments associated with menopause;
- influence on the improvement of the blood lipid profile, primarily a decrease in the level of so-called bad cholesterol and an increase in the fraction of high-density lipoproteins (HDL);
- counteracting the formation of inflammatory processes in the body and reducing the risk of developing various infections;
- steering mechanism for the treatment of diabetes, reducing insulin resistance.
- isoflavones are found in high amounts in soybeans, soy flour and foods, and in small amounts in lentils, bran, oatmeal, rice, and some fruits and vegetables;
- lignans - their richest source is flax seeds and linseed oil, slightly less in sunflower seeds, fruits (pears, cherries, apples) and vegetables (carrots, onions, dill);
- stilbenes - this type of plant hormones is found mainly in red wine, grapes, nuts (peanuts);
- Coumestans - The source of this class of phytoestrogens are sunflower seeds, clover seeds and bean sprouts.
- unexpected bleeding from the uterus;
- severe pain in the joints;
- dizziness, general weakness and pain in the head;
- abnormal vaginal discharge;
- and increased sweating.
- a decrease in testosterone leads to the accumulation of fat in the chest and abdomen, as well as a decrease in bone density. The norm of this hormone in the blood is 70 ng / dl, during menopause the figure drops to 40 ng / dl;
- estradiol during menopause can fluctuate in the range of 9.7-82 pg / ml;
- the level of progesterone allows you to assess the condition of the uterus. Its norm is 0.64 nmol / l. Problems with the production of progesterone lead to disruptions in the menstrual cycle;
- prolactin during menopause is significantly reduced, while the change in the level of this hormone does not have any special symptoms. Its norm at this time should be 25-400 mU / l. The level of prolactin decreases annually;
- the level of LH and FSH with the advent of menopause increases by a factor of 5 and is about 40 mIU / ml.
- the level of female sex hormones decreases, and this affects not only the ability to conceive a child, but also the activity of the brain. The work schedule of some of its sections is changing, and in particular the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, which are involved in the production of sex hormones. Due to changes in the circulatory system of the upper body, there may be flushing in the face, neck and décolleté, dizziness, nausea, and sudden pressure drops;
- in the body, the balance of minerals is also disturbed, which entails a decrease in the density of bone tissue and teeth;
- a reduced amount of hormones in menopause leads to problems with the thyroid gland, the production of thyroxin, which increases anxiety and increases the pulse rate, ceases to be suppressed;
- sex hormones are also responsible for the normal functioning of the adrenal glands, during menopause, hormonal disorders lead to malfunctions of this organ and, as a result, cause an increase in blood pressure and heart pain;
- hormonal changes also affect the work of the central nervous system, causing causeless fears, irritability, tearfulness and mood swings.
- on the level of FSH in the blood. With the advent of menopause, the value of hormones produced by the ovaries decreases, and FSH increases. Such an analysis allows you to determine the presence of violations in the synthesis of estrogen;
- to the level of estradiol. If the result is greatly reduced and differs significantly from the norm, then this can not only show the onset of menopause, but also means that there is a high risk of complications at this stage (osteoporosis, atherosclerosis may develop);
- to the LH level. If menopause has entered the active phase, the content of this hormone increases;
- for progesterone. Its content in the blood gradually decreases. And for the first 2-3 years of the menopause, this hormone may be completely absent in the body of a woman.
- prolactin should normally be 107-290 mcg / l;
- thyroid-stimulating substance, the norm will be 0.2-3.2 mIU / l, the value should not change much over time;
- follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH level should be 24-84 units, while the FSH rate is 54 units with an allowable fluctuation of 30 units. round trip;
- luteinizing hormone - on average, its indicator should be 43 units. with a tolerance of 30 units in both directions;
- progesterone in menopause is quite difficult to determine. At this time, progesterone drops to 1 nM / l;
- the intensity of the symptoms of this period depends on the level of estrogen during menopause, so the doctor must prescribe an analysis for estradiol. The allowable rate of estradiol in women during menopause is 8-82 units. The lower the value, the brighter the signs of menopause. If estradiol during menopause is above 82 units, this can accelerate the development of benign formations, kidney failure and provoke general fatigue.
- on FSH, LH is taken on the 4-5th day of the cycle;
- estradiol is taken on the 19-22nd day of the cycle;
- for progesterone - on days 18-21 of the cycle.
- go hungry;
- a day before the fence, you should not overwork and give your body heavy physical exertion;
- the day before the delivery, you do not need to smoke and drink alcohol, as well as have sex;
- avoid stress and any emotional shake-up;
- a couple of days before the delivery, you need to stop drinking hormonal medications prescribed earlier. The exact timing of discontinuation should be discussed with the doctor;
- if it is necessary to check the level of hormones in dynamics, then the analysis should be taken in the same laboratory so that the same reagents and methods are used.
- the skin dries out, becomes thinner and wrinkles appear. In a short period, the number of flaws on the skin can sharply increase, papillomas, moles, peeling, microcracks appear;
- there are jumps in blood pressure, headaches, spasms of blood vessels, causing impaired coordination of movement and nausea. Tides occur especially at night;
- brain function worsens, which causes poor memory, fatigue and decreased performance;
- due to a lack of estrogen, the absorption of calcium by the body worsens and its rapid washing out is observed, the bones become more fragile;
- the heart rate accelerates.
- a feeling of dryness in the vagina and discomfort, since this hormone is responsible for the secretion of mucus by the cervix and vaginal walls;
- the chest sags and becomes flabby;
- libido decreases;
- the level of cholesterol in the blood falls, and it becomes more viscous;
- fluid leaves the body faster, this is manifested in increased sweating and frequent urination;
- the process of tissue repair is reduced;
- the emotional state of a woman worsens, inadequate reactions to what is happening, sudden mood swings and unpredictable behavior may occur.
- malignant neoplasms and cysts:
- myoma nodes;
- disruption of the thyroid gland;
- hepatic pathologies;
- mammary cancer.
- swelling;
- baldness;
- general weakness;
- problems with digestion and assimilation of food;
- sleep problems;
- pain in the mammary glands;
- gynecological bleeding.
For problems with the stomach or kidneys, it is advisable to use external agents or implants. If other drugs are taken concomitantly, drug interactions can be avoided.
Depending on the required dosage, the doctor can determine the duration and form of treatment.
plasters
Hormone deficiency patches are used quite effectively in HRT.
They are glued to the body area under clothing for a week, and then replaced by a new one.
The active substance gradually penetrates through the skin into the body and makes up for the lack of missing estrogen.
The drug has almost no side effects, but, like other HRT, requires the approval of a doctor.
Gels
The gel should be applied once a day on the abdomen or buttocks. Provides fast absorption ease of use, however, the limited use of showers or baths in the first hour after taking the remedy reduces its popularity.
The most famous and effective gels:
Content
A natural physiological process that every woman faces sooner or later is menopause. It deals a serious blow to the body. Sometimes it is impossible to cope with the manifestations of menopause without hormonal or other medications. It is worth talking in more detail about which of them will help alleviate the condition of a woman.
Why drink hormones during menopause
During menopause, women experience hormonal imbalances. The level of estrogen (female sex hormone) is significantly reduced. Although this happens gradually, it is still difficult for the body to rebuild. Special pills for menopause from hot flashes and other unpleasant symptoms will be able to adjust the level of hormones. Thanks to hormone-containing drugs, the following changes occur in the female body:
What hormonal drugs should be taken with menopause
All drugs are divided into several groups:
Hormone therapy may be:
Hormonal drugs can be:
What hormones are prescribed for menopause
The treatment regimen is determined solely by the doctor. He can prescribe such hormonal pills for menopause:
Name |
Composition (main active ingredients) |
Application features |
Dipotassium mesoddihydrate. |
Drink half or whole tablet twice a day, depending on how you feel. It is advisable to start with a small dose. |
|
Estradiol hemihydrate, drospirenone. |
It is taken as a tablet per day. |
|
1 tablet per day. Hormonal pills are prescribed for natural menopause or artificial (after removal of the uterus, ovaries). |
||
Cliogest |
Estradiol, norethisterone. |
Drink one tablet per day. |
1-2 tablets per day. The dosage is determined by the severity of the symptoms. |
||
Trisequence |
Estradiol, norethisterone. |
1 piece per day. |
Estradiol, medroxyprogesterone. |
1 tablet per day. |
The price of hormonal pills for menopause
You can buy drugs in the online store, order in the catalog of an ordinary pharmacy. The acquisition cost may be lower. You can find a list of approximate prices for medicines in the table:
Name of the drug |
Price in rubles |
Cliogest |
|
Trisequence |
|
Duphaston |
|
Do hormonal pills for women have contraindications
Such drugs should not be taken when:
How to choose hormonal pills for women
Such drugs are strictly forbidden to take on their own. If the symptoms of menopause bother you a lot, be sure to consult a doctor. He will conduct an examination and, based on its results, prescribe hormonal drugs or phytoestrogens. Types of studies that must be completed in order to determine the method of therapy:
Video: hormone replacement therapy for menopause
Despite the fact that menopause is a physiological process, many women need medication to make it easier to survive this period of life. A change in the hormonal background during menopause, which is based on stopping the synthesis of estrogens, negatively affects the working capacity, appearance, physical health and psycho-emotional state of the lady. Then special drugs can help with menopause.
Specialists prescribe drug therapy to many menopausal women, giving preference to homeopathic remedies, antidepressants, dietary supplements and other drugs that do not contain hormones. The limitation of the use of hormonal drugs is justified by the fact that they have a large number of side effects.
In this topic, we want to tell you how and when experts recommend taking non-hormonal drugs for menopause from hot flashes, depression, fluctuations in blood pressure and other unpleasant symptoms that a woman may experience in this period of life. We will also analyze in which cases and what hormonal preparations a gynecologist can prescribe, as well as how to take them correctly in order to avoid undesirable health consequences.
Hormone replacement therapy for menopause (HRT): pros and cons
Hormone replacement therapy for the relief of menopausal symptoms is used by specialists in many European countries, since it has been proven to be highly effective and safe. But domestic gynecologists are afraid to relieve menopause in women with the help of hormone replacement drugs, since they have an impressive list of side effects.
But in the process of clinical observations, European physicians have established a number of conditions to minimize the risk of side effects, namely:
But many patients still refuse hormonal drugs for the following reasons:
But these are all just prejudices, because by observing the conditions that we talked about earlier, negative health consequences can be avoided.
Thus, if the body lacks its own sex hormones, then it needs foreign hormones, since hormonal imbalance leads to disruption of the work of all organs and systems.
Indications for the use of hormonal drugs for menopause
Hormonal drugs are prescribed in the following situations:
Hormonal drugs for menopause in women: side effects and contraindications
Proper selection of the dose, strict adherence to the appointments of a specialist, the regularity of administration and the combination of estrogens with allows you to avoid the above side effects.
Absolute contraindications to hormonal drugs are the following conditions:
Relative contraindications include:
The best drugs for menopause: list, description, price
The best reviews of gynecologists and patients about the latest generation of combined hormonal drugs that contain both estrogen and progesterone.
HRT for menopause includes new generation drugs:
The listed drugs perform the following tasks:
These drugs are available in the form of pills and tablets. One blister, where each tablet is numbered, is enough for 21 days of admission. After the woman takes the last pill, you need to take a break for seven days and only then proceed to a new blister. Each tablet has its own dose of hormones, which corresponds to the day of the cycle.
Femoston, Activel, Kliogest, as well as Angeliq are available in blister packs of 28 tablets, seven of which are pacifiers, that is, they do not contain hormones.
Estrogens
Preparations that contain only estrogen in their composition are produced mainly in the form of gels, creams, patches or implants that are placed under the skin of a woman.
The following gels and ointments with estrogens are the most effective for menopause:
Among the estrogen patches, they showed themselves well, such as:
Gels and ointments are quite convenient to use, as they only need to be applied once a day to the skin of the shoulders, abdomen, or lower back.
Hormonal patches are an even more convenient dosage form, since they need to be changed once every seven days.
The implants, which are sewn under the skin, last for six months, releasing a small dose of estrogen into the blood every day.
Gels, ointments, creams, patches and implants have a number of advantages over oral or injectable forms of hormonal agents, namely:
Progestins
To avoid the development of side effects, estrogens are prescribed in combination with progesterone. But if the uterus was extirpated, then the patient is shown estrogen monotherapy.
Progesterone preparations are mainly prescribed from the 14th to the 25th day of the menstrual cycle.
There are many progestins on the modern pharmaceutical market, but a number of drugs have the best performance.
Recently, specialists and patients prefer the Mirena intrauterine device, which is not only a contraceptive, but also contains progesterone and gradually releases it into the uterus.
Instructions for the use of hormonal drugs
The choice of a hormone therapy regimen, the selection of the drug and its dosage should be handled exclusively by a gynecologist. Medicines are prescribed based on the results of a study of the hormonal background of a woman, as well as taking into account the state of health in general. Self-treatment can lead to irreversible consequences!
Treatment of menopause begins when the first signs of a lack of sex hormones appear. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of menopause symptoms and can take from one to three years, and sometimes up to ten years.
Most experts believe that taking hormonal drugs should be stopped by the age of sixty, since cancer can develop.
Rules for taking hormonal drugs:
Treatment of menopause with non-hormonal drugs
Expert opinions on the advisability of hormone therapy today differ. In addition, many women refuse to take hormone-containing drugs because they are afraid of their side effects, do not have the financial ability to constantly buy them, or for other reasons.
In such cases, you can use the treatment of menopause without hormones, which consists in the use of phytohormones, homeopathic medicines, dietary supplements, etc.
Homeopathic remedies for menopause
Homeopathy for menopause is very popular. The basis of the effect of homeopathic remedies is the activation of the natural mechanisms of the body. Patients are prescribed small doses of substances that, in large doses, can lead to negative consequences.
Homeopathic remedies will help eliminate menopause symptoms such as:
The benefits of homeopathy for menopause include the following:
Consider the most effective homeopathic remedies used for menopause.
Preparations for menopause of plant origin
Herbal preparations for menopause contain phytoestrogens - substances that can perform the function of female sex hormones and eliminate the symptoms of aging in the female body.
Today, the most effective and popular drug for menopause symptoms is Inoklim, which is a biological supplement based on phytoestrogens.
Inoklim effectively fights such menopausal symptoms as a feeling of heat in the body, dryness of the vagina, increased sweating, and also prevents the development of complications.
The drug has practically no contraindications and side effects. Inoklim is not prescribed only for those who are allergic to the substances that make up its composition.
Thus, we have analyzed what drugs to take with menopause in order to alleviate its symptoms. But drug therapy can and should be supplemented with proper and balanced nutrition, drinking enough fluids, playing sports, taking vitamin and mineral complexes. Also, do not forget about the positive emotions that communication with loved ones, hobbies or needlework can give you.
Watch a video about drugs for menopause.
Most women are interested in what to take with menopause, so as not to age. Menopause is often referred to as menopause in women. Symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, loose skin, brittle dry hair and nails associated with hormonal changes occur in every woman's body with age. However, their effects can be alleviated. Together with home remedies for menopause, such as proper nutrition and an active lifestyle, phytoestrogen supplements or hormone replacement therapy are used. These methods allow a woman to stay young and healthy longer.
Menopause is the last period in a woman's life without bleeding for 12 months. The period of menopause is the time when the ovaries stop doing their job, i.e. produce female hormones. The consequence of a deficiency of sex hormones is not only the loss of fertility and the cessation of the menstrual cycle, but also a number of changes that occur in the body, which are typical symptoms of menopause. These include:
During menopause, other symptoms are also observed - harbingers of menopause, among which are hot flashes, night sweats, and heart palpitations.
Therapeutic measures
A woman struggling with menopausal symptoms may consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT, in addition to alleviating the symptoms of menopause, has a beneficial effect on the skeletal system (reduces the risk of osteoporosis) and lipid profile. Hormone replacement therapy reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer: it reduces the likelihood of colon, liver, and biliary tract cancers. However, it increases the risk of breast and cervical cancer.
What to drink with menopause, so as not to age? Hormone replacement therapy involves taking estriol, beta-estradiol in combination with gestagens, which prevent changes in the endometrium (the lining of the body of the uterus). Less commonly used drugs with estrogens themselves, they can be used by patients after removal of the uterus.
The main female hormone contained in the preparations is estrone, a weak estrogen. The most powerful estrogen, estradiol, is taken in small concentrations. There are various ways of administering hormones: transdermal (patches and subcutaneous implants), intramuscular, vaginal, so that the patient has a wide choice of the form of HRT used.
Before starting hormone replacement therapy, it is necessary to conduct a number of studies that are aimed at eliminating possible contraindications for HRT. In addition to collecting anamnesis and gynecological examination, the doctor directs to ultrasound of the female organs, mammography, blood tests.
Not every woman can use hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy increases blood clotting, which can lead to the development of thromboembolic complications. The decision to introduce this type of treatment should be well thought out, before starting it, the doctor should collect a thorough anamnesis about the health status of the patient, as well as her family. It should be remembered that HRT should not be used by women (current or past) with cervical or breast cancer.
Taking phytoestrogens to reduce symptoms
Due to the low percentage of side effects, supplements containing phytoestrogens and isoflavones are a good alternative to hormone replacement therapy. These natural substances that occur in soy act in a similar way to estrogen, which is secreted in smaller quantities during menopause and gradually ceases to function.
Can be taken with menopause, so as not to age, phytoestrogens.
If you notice the first signs of menopause in yourself, drink plant estrogen supplements.
After all, phytoestrogen supplements provide a safe way to alleviate unpleasant symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, and low mood. It is worth knowing that they belong to the group of antioxidants that slow down the aging process, support the immune system, and have an antitumor effect.
In addition to the actions described, women during menopause are advised to follow symptomatic treatment. The feeling of dryness in the vagina can be alleviated by applying topical moisturizers. And lowered mood and depression should encourage a woman to visit a psychological and psychiatric consultation, as well as to use the recommended treatment. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are commonly used.
Characterization of plant hormones
Phytoestrogens, plant hormones, are substances that occur naturally in plants. Among these substances, the following classes are distinguished: isoflavones, lignans, stilbenes and coumestans. The structure of plant hormones, as well as the functions they perform, are very similar to the female hormone estrogen. True, their action is much weaker than that of the hormones that are produced in the body, but their consumption along with food can help the body function properly.
The main health benefits of a diet rich in phytoestrogens are:
Products containing the desired elements
The presence of phytoestrogens in food is as follows:
Other ways to deal with the problem
Menopause is relatively mild for some women, while symptoms are severe for others. For the first, it is often enough to apply only a small modification of the lifestyle to alleviate this difficult period.
It is desirable that a woman be socially active and have a person in her environment who will become support for her and will say that, despite entering the period of old age, she is still attractive.
To reduce the manifestation of symptoms, provoking factors such as stuffiness, stress, alcohol, spicy seasonings should be avoided.
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To facilitate the course of menopause, it is recommended to stop smoking cigarettes, from the use of other stimulants. Diet is essential: it should be rich in vitamins, calcium and foods containing phytoestrogens. The following types of foods should be excluded from the diet: fatty and fried foods, sweets and carbonated drinks.
Menopause is not a disease, but a physiological feature of a woman. There are many ways to eliminate the signs of menopause, but for this you need to contact qualified specialists and strictly follow their advice and recommendations.
The natural process of attenuation of the reproductive function in every woman, associated with a decrease in the amount of hormones produced in the body. For each representative of the fair sex, such hormonal changes are accompanied by various symptoms, but in any case, there is a deterioration in the general condition and exacerbation of previously existing chronic diseases. Since the level of hormones during menopause changes significantly, the easiest way to make sure that menopause has really begun is by passing the appropriate tests.
In this article, we will just describe which hormones a woman needs to take for analysis during menopause in order to make sure of its onset and select the appropriate drugs to alleviate the symptoms of this period.
Why get tested
All by the age of 50 are associated exclusively with hormonal disorders caused by the withering of the reproductive function of the female body. But not always the absence of menstruation is a sign of the onset of menopause, in order to determine the cause of a particular symptom, it is necessary to control the level of sex hormones in the blood. Women with menopause have exact norms, comparing which with the results of research, one can draw the appropriate conclusions.
Based on the results of hormone tests, a gynecologist can prescribe hormone replacement therapy and thereby significantly alleviate the symptoms of menopause for a woman.
When is laboratory diagnosis needed?
Laboratory diagnostics should be carried out even at the stage when the symptoms of menopause are not pronounced, but the first changes in the functioning of the body have already begun. About these changes, all the information can be provided by tests for hormones during menopause.
Go to the gynecologist and take tests for female hormones with menopause should be when the following symptoms appear:
What changes occur in the production of hormones
For each woman, her personal level of progesterone, estradiol, prolactin and other hormones is normal, and hormonal failure is accompanied by a significant deviation from the normal value for them.
Female hormones during menopause, or rather, changes in their level, lead to the following changes in the body:
The body's response to hormonal changes
The most important process of the female body is metabolism, which is under the control of hormones. Various body systems take part in it, but its main task is to supply nutrients to various tissues, which ensures the normal functioning of the whole organism as a whole.
During menopause, the hormonal background changes significantly, and these changes primarily negatively affect the metabolism. Depending on the individual characteristics of the female body, the signs of these changes may appear more or less pronounced, but almost every woman will experience the following body reactions:
What tests need to be done
Now consider what tests a woman needs to take during menopause:
Hormone levels - decoding analyzes
If a woman does not rotate in medical circles, then the test results will be for her the usual set of numbers and icons, especially if she has undergone many studies, and she has accumulated a whole stack of such printouts. It is best to contact a doctor for decoding, but you can first assess whether this or that indicator is normal at home. You still cannot do without a visit to the doctor, because only a specialist can prescribe adequate treatment, based on the result of the tests.
For various hormones, the norm in women during menopause will be as follows:
Sufficiently informative for a specialist is the ratio of LH / FSH. This indicator is measured as a percentage and in the menopause the value of the ratio of FSH and LH should be in the range of 0.35-0.75 units. The lower the value, the more severe the symptoms.
This is an approximate transcript of the tests, only a doctor can accurately read the results.
When are tests taken?
The menstrual cycle of a woman is closely related to the level of sex hormones in her body, so you need to clearly know on which day you can take a particular blood test for hormones:
Testing rules
In order for the result of tests for hormones in menopause to be as accurate as possible, the following rules must be observed:
What does the increase and decrease in estradiol mean
The most "influential" group of hormones in the female body are estrogens, in particular estradiol. It is they who contribute to the development of the reproductive system in adolescence, support its work throughout the life of a woman and are responsible for the cyclical processes in the reproductive organs. Along with the symptoms caused by menopause, there are signs of an acute shortage of estrogens in the body:
During menopause, it is very important to know the level of estradiol in the blood, since a significant decrease in it increases the symptoms of the menopause. This hormone is produced by the ovaries and follicles, to a lesser extent by adipose tissue. With the extinction of the functions of the ovary, the body tries to replenish the reserves of estradiol by increasing the fat layer capable of producing it. This causes an increase in body weight of a woman during menopause. There are other signs of a decrease in estradiol:
With menopause, the level of estradiol in the blood is considered to be no more than 82 pg / ml. If the test result is higher, then there are factors in the body that provoke an increase in estradiol. These may include the following pathologies:
Symptoms of a high level of estradiol may be as follows:
With an underestimated value of estradiol, replacement therapy can be carried out, since a decrease in the level to 6-9 pg / mg leads to an exacerbation of menopausal symptoms and a general deterioration in the woman's health.
If you let all the changes in the body during menopause take their course, then you can get problems not only in the genital area, but also pathologies of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, as well as accelerate the development of oncological formations. Combining medical care with proper nutrition, an active and proper lifestyle, you can significantly slow down and delay the withering of the female body and improve the quality of life in general.