Written by Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist: Gabriella Sanchez - January 07, 2023
If you’ve ever had a stroke, the decision whether or not to start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can seem daunting. You may wonder if it is safe or effective to take hormones after experiencing such a major health event.
The good news is that, when taken under proper medical supervision and according to recommended protocols, HRT can be an effective and safe treatment for those who have experienced a stroke. However, it is important to understand all of the implications before making the decision to take HRT.
Risk Factors
When deciding if taking HRT would be beneficial after having a stroke, it's essential to carefully consider the potential risks involved. Talk to your doctor about any underlying conditions that may increase your risk when taking hormones as well as other lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Some common risk factors include:
While there are potential risks associated with taking hormones following a stroke, there are also many benefits from doing so. The most notable benefit being improved quality of life by controlling menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Taking hormone replacement therapy can also reduce heart disease risks for postmenopausal women since lower levels of estrogen can contribute to an increased risk for cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. Additionally, some research suggests that hormone replacement therapy may help protect against cognitive decline by improving brain function which often declines during menopause due to decreased estrogen levels.
It's important to consult with your doctor before starting hormone replacement therapy—especially if you have had or are at risk for having a stroke—in order to determine what type is best suited for your individual needs as well as how long you should use them safely and effectively. Furthermore, make sure that you tell your doctor if you have any adverse reactions while using them such as breast tenderness or changes in mood or behavior so they can adjust your regimen appropriately. Your physician may also advise supplementing with calcium and vitamin D while taking HRT in order to maintain optimal health following a stroke event and reduce risks associated with osteoporosis caused by decreased estrogen levels post-menopause.
Finally, BHRT Pro Center offers specialized programs designed for postmenopausal women who wish to explore available options regarding safe and effective ways of fighting menopausal symptoms through various treatments including bioidentical hormones tailored specifically for their body chemistry; allowing them optimal relief from uncomfortable side effects caused by hormonal imbalances resulting from natural aging processes without unnecessary risks associated with generic drug therapies available via conventional pharmaceuticals outlets .