Ailments and Situations - Menopause (and Related Issues) - Hormone Replacement Therapy - YOUR Hormone Replacement Strategy |
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YOUR Hormone Replacement Strategy
Above all, it is important to remember that if you pursue hormone replacement, the strategy should be based on your decisions, your knowledge of the situation, and your needs. The following profiles will further assist you in and can be used in further discussion with your naturopath or other health practitioner.
Low-Risk Profile: HRT Optional According to Christiane Northrup's Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom, the following low-risk profile often makes hormone replacement theory one option to consider: - Normal physiologic menopause at age 50 +/- 5
- No family history of cardiovascular disease before age 65
- No family history of osteoporosis
- Medium to heavy frame
- Non-smoker
- No long-term drug use where side effects include osteoporosis, e.g., steroids, thyroid medication (high doses), and some diuretics
- Maximum alcohol consumption of two or three drinks weekly
- Healthy, balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids, primarily omega-3
- Regular weight-bearing exercise and aerobic exercise, three times weekly
- No history of depression
- Passion for life
High-Risk Profile: HRT Recommended, Unless Contraindicated According to Christiane Northrup's Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom, the following high-risk profile often makes hormone replacement theory a viable option unless contraindicated: - Premature menopause at 40 years of age or earlier
- Artificial menopause before 45, caused by surgery, chemotherapy, drugs, or radiation
- Diagnosed cardiovascular disease
- Strong family history of cardiovascular disease
- Apple-shaped figure / High umbilical-to-hip ratio
- Strong family history of Alzheimer's disease, or dementia
- Smoker
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet high in refined-foods, low in essential nutrients
- Little desire for living life
Before You Decide ... After reviewing the profiles outline above, you may find that elements of your particular history and lifestyle fall into both profiles. It is for this reason and many others that you are encouraged to thoroughly discuss the issue of hormone replacement therapy with your naturopath or other health practitioner to determine the various options available to you. In the end, you will be able to confidently make decisions that meet your personal needs.
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