Mallory Maisel, RN, FNP-C, has been certified by the Heather Hirsch Academy as a Women's Hormone Therapy Specialist. As one of only 25 providers in Texas to achieve this certification, Mallory has been trained by one of the nation’s leading experts in FDA-approved hormone therapy management to expertly discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy compared to non-hormonal, over-the-counter options and interpret the findings of clinical trials.

“I wanted to have this training so that I could better understand women’s hormones, the effects that they have on their lives and health, and how to provide women in perimenopause and menopause the best possible care,” Mallory said. “I love being able to help women through all stages of life. It brings me so much joy to see that our services can improve their lives. I look forward to many more years of providing care for women in our community.”

MENOPAUSE MATTERS

Menopause is a personal milestone, and each woman’s experience is unique. Twelve consecutive months without a period is considered the hallmark of menopause, but symptoms can continue after that point. This stage signals the end of a woman's ability to have children.

This natural transition may come with a variety of symptoms that can vary from nonexistent to severe. There are several therapies to manage perimenopause and menopause symptoms, including hormone therapy.

WHAT IS HORMONE THERAPY?

Hormone therapy replaces the hormones that are lost during the menopause transition. During menopause, your ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone. The drop in these hormones can cause uncomfortable symptoms, like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, poor sleep, irritability and brain fog. Hormone therapy is FDA-approved and is shown to be effective in relieving symptoms. Hormone therapy is available in different forms, including pills, patches, gels, sprays, pellets and vaginal rings.  

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT YOU MIGHT NEED HRT?

If you are going through menopause and are having any of these signs, make an appointment to talk to us about whether hormone therapy is right for you:

• Moderate-to-severe hot flashes. Mild hot flashes are annoying, but they don't need treatment. Moderate hot flashes make you feel hot and sweaty. Severe hot flashes make you feel so uncomfortable that you must stop what you're doing.
• Vaginal dryness, itching, or burning.
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse.
• Overall body aches and joint and muscle pain.Insomnia.
• Low energy.
• Moodiness or feeling like you can't control your body or emotions.
• Issues with memory loss and cognitive challenges.

HORMONE THERAPY: BENEFITS AND RISKS

Not all women will need hormone therapy, but many will find it helpful to treat some of the unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. Hormone therapy can help reduce symptoms, and can also ease overactive bladder, prevent bone fractures, lower your risk of heart disease and reduce your diabetes risk.

Although hormone therapy can have some adverse effects, research shows the benefits can outweigh the risks for many women. At Nacogdoches Women’s Center, we tailor hormone therapy to the individual, balancing benefits and risks based on your medical history. Although the risk of serious problems is small, you should review your use of hormone therapy regularly with your healthcare provider. As your body and needs change and new therapies and guidelines become available, your therapy can be reevaluated, and adjustments can be made.

HORMONE THERAPY OPTIONS

The two main types of hormone therapy are systemic and low-dose therapy.

Systemic therapy includes estrogens and progestogens. They are delivered through pills, patches, sprays, gels, pellets or a vaginal ring. Systemic hormones are absorbed into the bloodstream and can be used to treat many common symptoms.

Low-dose therapy usually has less estrogen than systemic therapy. It is administered into the vagina and is usually used to treat only the vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause. Very little goes into the bloodstream, so the risks are lower.

HORMONE THERAPY AND TESTOSTERONE

Women who are taking hormone therapy and have persistent symptoms, like reduced libido, may be given testosterone.

Testosterone is made in your ovaries and adrenal glands, and plays an important role in sexual arousal, bone strength, cardiovascular health, cognitive performance, and energy levels in women.  As you age, your testosterone levels gradually diminish. You may have less desire to have sex and find it less pleasurable. You may also have less energy and poor concentration. Many women find that taking testosterone improves their libido and ability to orgasm, as well as increasing stamina, both physically and mentally.  

Testosterone is usually given to women as a cream or gel, and implants are also available. There are usually no side effects, but we recommend regular blood monitoring if you are using testosterone. 

FIND OUT MORE

If your menopause symptoms are disrupting your sleep or affecting your quality of life, it’s time to talk about your options. As a Certified Women's Hormone Therapy Specialist, Mallory Maisel has been specially trained to expertly discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy. Contact Nacogdoches Women’s Center to set up an appointment to learn more.