Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment that replaces hormones when your body no longer produces adequate amounts. As both men and women age, their bodies undergo various changes due to shifting hormone levels. For some, this natural decrease in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone leads to unpleasant symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life.
HRT aims to supplement these declining hormones to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and more. The goal is restoring hormone levels to improve overall wellbeing.
There are a few types of HRT:
The way HRT is taken over a cycle is referred to as the HRT regimen. A common approach is known as combined continuous HRT, which provides steady doses of both estrogen and progestin daily.
However, some prefer to take cyclical or sequential regimens instead. This involves:
The days progestin is added are called “progestin blocks”. This mimics the rise and fall of hormones through the menstrual cycle.
Why block changes occur:
How it works:
The timing can vary, may be every month or several months depending on needs. This rise and fall of hormones leads some to experience monthly symptoms like bloating, cramps, mood shifts while on progestin blocks.
When evaluating HRT, it’s important to discuss regimen options with your healthcare provider. Key points to consider:
The team at Revive Hormone Clinic((/)) can help identify the right HRT regimen for your individual needs. Our compassionate practitioners offer both continuous and cyclical protocols to help you find the best fit. We partner with pharmacies providing customized bioidentical hormones and delivery methods from patches to creams to tablets. With options for in-person or virtual appointments, Revive Hormone Clinic is here to support your hormone balance and vitality goals.
Some adjustment is expected when starting HRT or block change transitions. Tracking symptoms and communicating with your provider allows fine-tuning as needed. Many report an adaption period before optimal effects are felt. Patience, self-care and medical supervision helps ensure HRT success.
I hope this provides helpful insight into hormone replacement therapy regimens and progestin block changes! Let me know if any part needs more explanation or if you have additional questions.
