Introduction
Hormone replacement therapy is a therapeutic intervention that involves the addition of supplemental hormones to the course of treatment in order to address the hormone deficiency in patients with various diseases. Typical cases where hormone replacement is used include menopause, overactive bladder, transgender therapy, birth control, etc. (Crocetti, 2015). Despite the fact that certain evidence exists for symptom relief in various gender-related somatic disorders and non-gender-related health issues, hormone therapy and its effects on the human body are still understudied. Therefore, it is paramount to review different aspects of hormone replacement therapy. This article deals with the strengths, limitations, and prescription of supplementary sex hormones in patients with hormone deficiencies.
Strengths and Limitations of Hormone Replacement Therapy
According to Panay, Hamoda, Arya, & Savvas (2013), observational data suggest that hormone replacement therapy may improve mood, and address depressive symptoms in early menopausal women. The improved sleep, sexual relationships, and, consequently, quality of life are named among the significant benefits of supplemental hormone intake. Another strength of hormone replacement therapy is that it enhances vasomotor function more effectively than any other treatment option as evidenced by 24 randomized controlled trials (Panay et al., 2013). Vaginal estrogen is also deemed effective as a treatment option against overactive bladder (Arcangelo, Peterson, Wilbur, & Reinhold, 2017).
On the other hand, Kaplan, Daryn, & Spittel (n.d.) suggest that the long-term effects of hormone replacement therapy can be rather negative. Thus, numerous studies have tied the use of supplemental hormone therapy to the increased incidence of breast cancer in women. In addition, such therapy (especially oral one) can significantly increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (Panay et al., 2013). Risks are also associated with the use of progestin as a major component as it is reported to decrease the functionality of the ear.
Personal Support for Hormone Replacement Therapy
My support for hormone replacement therapy is based on the fact that hormones are essential components of health and their abnormally low levels should be compensated with supplemental hormones (Crocetti, 2015). However, given the adverse effects of their use, I would rather agree with a highly personalized prescription instead of an overall recommendation. Above that, it is noteworthy to mention that presently high level of my support is based on current evidence pertaining to certain diseases and conditions. Should the scientific community uncover statistically significant adverse effects, I will also reconsider supporting hormone replacement.
Supplemental Hormones for Patients with Hormone Deficiency
I would only prescribe hormone replacement in women under the age of 60 as after that age there is a documented increase in cancer risks. In addition, in women with premature ovarian insufficiency, I would also support the evidence-based use of estrogen. Persistent symptoms in other diseases would also enable me to prescribe supplemental hormones. In Transgender individuals, professionals and researchers overwhelmingly support the use of sex hormones for the treatment of hormone deficiencies, which also gives me the reason to prescribe them.
Conclusion
All in all, hormone therapy is a viable option for the prevention and treatment of different diseases and conditions. Its long-term and short-term effects are proved generally positive. Despite the certain association with increased incidence of breast cancer and venous thromboembolism, in certain cases with persistent symptoms and no contraindications, supplemental hormones could be the choice. I support the use of this therapy as long as the overall opinion of researchers and professionals remains positive.
References
Arcangelo, V. P., Peterson, A. M., Wilbur, V., & Reinhold, J. A. (Eds.). (2017). Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practice: A practical approach (4th ed.). Ambler, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Crocetti, D. (2015). Hormone Replacement Therapy. In The International Encyclopedia of Human Sexuality (pp. 501–581). New York, NY: American Cancer Society.
Kaplan, R., Daryn, D., & Spittel, M., (n.d.) Population health: Behavioral and social science insights. (2015). Web.
Panay, N., Hamoda, H., Arya, R., & Savvas, M. (2013). The 2013 British menopause society & women’s health concern recommendations on hormone replacement therapy. Menopause International, 19(2), 59-68.