"Is estrogen replacement therapy right for me?" This question has resounded a million times among women undergoing menopause. The rigors of this event that occurs in every woman's life can be so overwhelming that nearly each one might definitely put up a plea for help. And fast!

There are many ways to deal with the symptoms of menopause but estrogen replacement therapy is considered to be one of the most effective treatments there is. The issue whether estrogen replacement therapy or ERT is the right course of treatment for dealing with the symptoms of menopause remains unclear. With all the controversy surrounding ERT, most doctors and patients alike seem to shy away from it.

There is no doubt that ERT can effectively address hot flashes and vaginal dryness as well as prevent the onset of osteoporosis. However, some studies indicated that it may likewise increase the risk of developing breast and uterus cancer. Some studies even indicated that women under ERT are more likely to suffer more from blood clotting, stroke and heart diseases. However, there are still no conclusive studies at present regarding these observations. So, the issue regarding the safety of ERT remains to be proven.

The symptoms of menopause can definitely take their toll on your physical and psychological well-being and you might need help in dealing with all these. So, how do you know if ERT is right for you?

Understanding ERT

First, you must understand that hormones are not for everyone. Clearly, ERT is contraindicated for women with cancer of the breast, ovary or uterus since it can aggravate these conditions. Neither is it advisable for women with certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, gallstones, gallbladder disease, large uterine fibroids and clots in the legs, pelvis and/or lungs.

How is ERT administered?

When it comes to the actual administration of the therapy, you can choose from a wide variety of available options. It can be administered via local or topical therapy using creams and patches or through the administration of systemic hormones.

Presently, however, most doctors avoid prescribing systemic hormones to their patients. They are starting to favor the use of creams and patches since it was observed that the estrogen in estrogen-only patches goes directly into the bloodstream and reduces the risks of blood clots and elevated cholesterol levels. These preparations also release hormones continuously thereby allowing them to control the symptoms more effectively.

In addition to estrogen, you might also need to be put on a progestin therapy. This is especially true for women who still have their uterus intact. Progestin pills should be taken every two to six months to minimize the chances of developing uterine cancer.

If you are planning to undergo ERT, most doctors agree that patients should be given the lowest possible dose that can effectively control the symptoms. Her doctor then reassesses the patient's condition after six weeks of treatment. If the symptoms were successfully controlled, the dosage will be further reduced but if the symptoms return, an increase in the dosage will be effected.

How long do you need to be under ERT?

Most experts agree that women should be under ERT for a period of 18 to 24 months. After this period, the patient should go off the treatment to see whether the symptoms will resurface. If the symptoms do return and you find them intolerable, you can decide whether or not to go back to the treatment.

There are various ways to counter the symptoms of menopause and ERT, no matter how effective it may be, is just one of them. It really is up to you to know what is good for you and your body in this transition period called menopause.