Estrogen

Estrogen is the most important Hormone that influences the life of women. The estrogen level remains relatively the same during 25 years, after which it will decrease constantly. Since the number of ovules that mature in the ovary decrease as women get older. There are three principle forms of estrogen found in the human body estrone, estradiol and estriol. Estradiol is the most commonly measured type of estrogen for nonpregnant women. Estrogens also have an important role on skin tension, they stabilize and make the bones stronger, they protect against arteriosclerosis and have an important effect on blood vessels.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is used by women after the menopause, particularly to prevent osteoporosis. The EMEA (European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products) has reviewed the available literature and formulated recommendations.

The Expert Group conducted a review of data about the benefits and risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy. The following are some of the results from there review:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy - provides effective relief of menopause symptoms and prevents loss of bone mass or increases bone density. Although when the HRT stops, the effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy disappears within a few years.
  

• HRT Risks - increased risk of breast and endometrial cancer especially with increasing duration of HRT with all types of estrogens. The breast cancer risk is increased by addition of progestogens whereas the risk for endometrial cancer is reduced with addition of progestogens. HRT also increases the risk of blood clotting , especially during the first year of use.

• Evidence for an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

• HRT - there is some evidence of an increased risk of dementia.Estrogen is a major factor in many other issues resulting from menopause and there are alternatives to HRT. With the availability of information and natural products why risk your future health unnecessarily. Take the time to explore your options and prepare for your estrogen changes.