Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) as an Aspect of Functional Medicine Treatment
At Tendwell, we have many patients who are entering menopause. Recent advances in hormone therapies for menopause (“Menopausal Hormone Therapy”, “MH”, or “MHT”), also known as hormone replacement therapy (“HRT”), make it a great compliment to holistic and integrative approaches for women experiencing menopause. The decision to start MHT should be made in consultation with your Tendwell healthcare provider based on a thorough assessment of your individual health, medical history, and symptoms. Common menopausal symptoms that may lead to considering MHT include:
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats:
MHT is commonly prescribed to alleviate the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats, which are common symptoms of hormonal fluctuations during menopause.
Vaginal Dryness and Atrophy:
Changes in estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, discomfort, and atrophy. MHT, particularly local estrogen therapy, may be prescribed to improve vaginal health and alleviate these symptoms.
Sleep Disturbances:
Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to sleep disturbances. MHT may help improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Mood Swings and Irritability:
Fluctuating hormone levels can affect mood and contribute to irritability and mood swings. MHT may be considered to help stabilize mood.
Cognitive Changes:
Some women may experience cognitive changes such as difficulty concentrating, brain fog, or memory concerns during menopause. MHT is thought to have potential benefits for cognitive function, especially for prevention as women age beyond their first years in menopause.
Bone Health:
Estrogen plays a major role in maintaining bone density, and menopause is associated with a decline in bone mass. MHT may be considered to help support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
It's important to note that while MHT can be effective in managing menopausal symptoms, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Additionally, MHT is not recommended for everyone, and there are certain contraindications and considerations that your functional medicine provider will discuss with you. The duration of hormone therapy and the specific hormones used can vary based on individual circumstances.
Of course, because Tendwell is a functional medicine practice, our approach to MHT is different from what you might find at a run-of-the-mill doctor’s office. Instead, we focus on the root causes of symptoms and addressing an individual's overall well-being. We don’t use MHT on it’s own, but only as part of a holistic personalized healthcare plan available to members. Among other things we offer:
Comprehensive Assessment:
We conduct a thorough assessment of your health, considering factors such as lifestyle, genetics, nutrition, stress, and environmental exposures. This holistic evaluation helps identify the underlying causes of menopausal symptoms.
Individualized Treatment Plans:
We create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs. Tendwell works with you to create a customized MHT plan that considers your specific symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors.
Nutritional Support:
We also incorporate nutritional guidance as a key component of overall health. We will provide recommendations for a diet that supports hormone balance during menopause and helps alleviate symptoms. We also offer health coaching as part of your Tendwell membership to help you keep on track.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Lifestyle factors play a crucial role in managing menopausal symptoms. Tendwell offers guidance on stress management, exercise, sleep hygiene, and other lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being, again backed up by our terrific health coaching team.
Supplementation:
In appropriate cases, we also prescribe supplements to address specific nutritional deficiencies to support overall health. Because may supplements complement MHT and promote hormonal balance, they will be considered as part of your specific, personalized plan of supplementation.
Monitoring and Adjustments:
Regular follow-up appointments with a functional medicine provider at Tendwell will allow for ongoing monitoring of your progress. We adjustment your treatment plan as needed, ensuring it remains aligned with your changing health needs.
Education and Empowerment:
Functional medicine places importance on patient education and empowerment. Tendwell provides you with information about menopause, hormone therapy options, and self-care strategies to enhance your understanding and involvement in your health journey.
Find out more about membership here. And make an appointment for a free consultation today!
