HerArticle

Dr. Carrie Jones
More From This Member
Send Message

Expert Bio Her Writer

Estrogen’s Effect On Your Heart

Hormones are a hot topic these days. Women of all ages have been hearing about the hormone replacement discussion that is happening on TV, in magazines, and right here on EmpowHer.com. Estrogen comes in several forms which is why many of my patients are surprised to learn the birth control pill counts as estrogen replacement. How many years were you on the pill? Are you considering hormone replacement as an adult?

Estrogen is a normal hormone in the body. We need it as women and therefore our body produces it in a cyclical nature throughout our menstrual cycle. Once your periods have ended (menopause), other parts of the body produce estrogen such as your fat tissue and your adrenal glands.

Many women remember the studies that took place on hormone replacement and its effect on the female body. First, in the HERS study (Heart and Estrogen/Progestin Replacement Study) they found that post-menopausal women with known heart disease had more heart attacks and heart disease deaths.

Next, in the WHI (Women’s Health Initiative), researchers halted the study because of the increased risk of breast cancer, stroke and heart disease.

We value and respect the experiences of all of our HerWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.