Hormone therapy is commonly prescribed for women with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as menopause, thyroid disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and more.
Hormone therapy works by either increasing or decreasing the levels of hormones in the body. The type of hormone therapy prescribed will depend on the condition being treated and the patient’s specific situation. In some cases, hormone therapy may be the only treatment option available. In other cases, it may be used in combination with other treatments.
As is the case with all medication use, hormone therapy can have some unwanted side effects. These side effects don’t occur for all women who take hormone therapy – but when they do, there are steps you can take to minimize their effects.
It’s important to note that many side effects occur when you first begin hormone therapy but will go away once your body adjusts to the medication.
Managing Side Effects of Hormone Therapy for Women
#1 Fatigue
Weakness and fatigue, including a lack of energy and joint pain, can occur in women undergoing hormone therapy.
A few ways to fight fatigue include:
- Taking short naps throughout the day
- Getting enough sleep at the proper time
- Eating healthier food
- Staying hydrated
- Getting regular exercise at least once a day or as prescribed by your doctor
#2 Bloating & Fluid Retention
If your hormone therapy includes progestogens, you may experience abdominal discomfort and bloating. This tends to go away as your body gets used to the new hormone levels. There are a number of ways to address this type of bloating, such as:
- Avoiding salty foods, as this can worsen fluid retention and bloating
- Exercising regularly
- Drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding processed foods to ease digestion
- Taking magnesium supplements
While it may seem as if you’re gaining weight as a result of hormone therapy, this is likely the result of additional fluid retention, which can cause swelling – especially in your face and/or ankles.
#3 Headaches
When hormone therapy involves a dramatic influx in hormone levels, it can trigger headaches and even migraines in some women. This typically occurs with orally administered hormone therapy – and is less likely with patches or gels, which deliver smaller, more stable amounts of hormones over time.
#4 Mood Swings
Irritability, depression, and anxiety can all occur as side effects when beginning hormone therapy. Once hormone levels stabilize, serotonin production likewise stabilizes, helping to regulate moods.
You can manage mood swings caused by hormone therapy by:
- Ensuring you’re getting ample, good-quality sleep
- Regularly exercising, can provide a needed attitude adjustment, as well as being good for the body
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Talking to your doctor about testosterone; in addition to boosting low libido and low energy levels, it can help improve your mood
#5 Breast Tenderness
You may notice increased tenderness or soreness in your breasts when you begin hormone therapy. This is usually in reaction to increased levels of estrogen, which also contributes to breast tenderness just prior to a menstrual period.
To help manage any soreness or tenderness in the breasts when beginning hormone therapy, you can try the following:
- Taking the hormone medication with food
- Eating a low-fat but high-carb diet
- Using hot or cold compresses on your breasts
- Wearing a firm-support bra – or, better yet, a sports bra
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary
Hormone Therapy for Women
