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Menopause - Don't be Afraid of Estrogen, Demand It!
In this article:
- Do you want a better sex life?
- Get rid of hot flashes
- Keep your bones strong
Menopause refers to that time in every woman's life when menstruation ceases completely. Changing hormone levels affect the entire endocrine system. This is a process which takes approximately three to five years. Menopause is usually complete in the early 50's.
In addition to diminished levels of estrogen and progesterone, testosterone levels (also produced in the ovaries) are reduced during menopause. The reduction in testosterone levels can be a contributing factor to a woman's loss of desire for sexual intercourse. Hormone modulation, including testosterone, can increase a woman's sexual desire (libido) and enjoyment of sexual activity, and help maintain normal body composition and energy.
Reduction in estrogen levels directly contributes to the increased risk for osteoporosis. It is estimated that one out of every two post-menopausal women will suffer some degree of osteoporosis. The decrease in the hormones affects the entire endocrine system, the system that controls growth, metabolism and reproduction. The diminution of hormone levels during menopause affects the breasts, vagina, bones, blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract and skin.
The reduction in a woman's hormone levels results in changes that can seriously affect her physical and mental states of health as well as her prospects for longevity. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- hot flashes
- vaginal/urinary tract changes
- loss of libido
- emotional changes
- osteoporosis
- cardiovascular disease
Much of the medical field agrees that hormone therapy:
- reduces the risk of osteoporosis
- relieves hot flashes
- reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
- may improve mood and psychological well being
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