In the Austin area, doctors are observing a notable increase in the demand for hormone therapy to manage menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Dr. Laura Eastep from Ascension Seton emphasizes the importance of addressing these health concerns, noting that women deserve the tools to live their healthiest lives during these years.
Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause, marked by changes in menstrual cycles and other symptoms. Dr. Nida Zakiullah, medical director of primary care at Baylor Scott & White Austin Northwest, explains that some women may experience symptoms up to a decade before menopause. As medical understanding advances, the role of hormone fluctuations in long-term health risks, such as heart disease and low bone density, becomes clearer. Hormone therapy can alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and improve overall health.
Increased Demand for Hormone Therapy
Since 2018, there has been a significant rise in the use of hormone-based therapies, particularly estrogen patches, according to a study by Truveta, a collective of U.S. health systems. The study highlights a 184% increase in estrogen-based hormone replacement therapies among women aged 45 to 54 from 2018 to 2026. Despite the high demand, the FDA has not reported a shortage, although some providers have noted strains in supply.
Historical Context and Safety
Hormone therapy for menopause has been in use since the 1960s, with its popularity peaking in the 1990s. However, a trial by the Women’s Health Initiative in the early 2000s raised concerns about increased risks of breast cancer and cardiovascular events, leading to a decrease in usage. A reanalysis in 2016 showed that the risks were mainly confined to older women, and the FDA subsequently removed the black box warning in November, affirming the safety and efficacy for more recently menopausal women.
Exploring Treatment Options
Doctors like Eastep and Zakiullah encourage women experiencing menopause symptoms to consult with their healthcare providers to explore treatment options. For those unable or unwilling to use hormone therapy, effective nonhormonal treatments are available.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
