Dear Marie:

I'm glad to hear that you are already taking a natural rather than a synthetic estrogen. It is important to remember, however, that estrogen and progesterone work together in a woman's body. When a woman enters menopause naturally, changes in estrogen and progesterone levels occur gradually. In the case of a hysterectomy, the change is sudden and profound. In either case, replacing estrogen without a progesterone usually does not make sense and can contribute to hormone imbalance.

Too much estrogen can result in weight gain, mood swings, water retention and bloating, breast tenderness and hot flashes. Balancing estrogen with progesterone can help eliminate these challenges. Other life-enhancing benefits may also include increased energy, improvements in bone and cardiovascular health, and anti-aging benefits.

You may also want to consider supplementing your natural testosterone level. Many women find this helpful, particularly with maintaining sexual desire and health.

The only way to know what combination of hormones is truly right for you is by first determining your hormone levels with an easy saliva hormone test. Once you know your current hormone levels, your health practitioner can prescribe the right combination of hormones and the right delivery system (cream, patch, tablet, capsule or suppository) for you.

If you or your health practitioner would like more information on hormone testing or replacement, please email or call us at (800) 558-7046.