Hormone patches are a safer alternative to tablets used to relieve menopausal symptoms, reports Reuters. A comparison of the two hormone replacement therapy methods showed that women using estrogen-based patches had a third lower risk of developing a blood clot.
According to scientists, this is because, unlike oral preparations, hormones delivered through the skin do not burden the liver and do not stimulate proteins that influence the formation of blood clots (most often in the veins of the legs). With thrombosis, these clots can break off and travel with the blood around your body. It is especially dangerous for the thrombus to enter the lung, as blockage of the blood vessels can then lead to pulmonary embolism or even death.
In 2002, the proportion of women using hormone replacement therapy decreased in response to the publication of studies that showed that pills containing estrogen and progesterone increased the risk of venous thrombosis, heart attack, stroke and breast cancer. Previously, such tablets were prescribed for the prevention of heart disease and osteoporosis.
However, hormone replacement therapy is still the most effective method of combating hot flashes accompanying menopause, which is why it is chosen by women whose symptoms are particularly troublesome. Due to the risk, experts suggest that the doses of hormones taken should be as low as possible, and the duration of their use as short as possible.
Some women can reduce hot flashes by making simple changes, such as sleeping in a cooler room, or consuming less caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Sometimes relaxation techniques, yoga or meditation also help.
It is also worth reaching for dietary supplements. We recommend a botanical complex for mature women that alleviates unpleasant symptoms. It is available on Medonet Market.
The research was carried out by Canadian scientists cooperating with the Analysis Group company specializing in statistical analyzes. The collected data concerned 54 thousand. women (PAP)
If you are unsure whether the changes in your body are already menopausal, make sure by taking the Menopause – urine FSH plate test or the Menopause – urine FSH streaming test.