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because of breast cancer i can no longer take hormone replacement therapy, what helth problems can occur by not having the proper hormone

[Machelle Seibel, MD]

The main health issues for women not on hormones are an increased risk of osteoporosis (estrogen helps prevent bone loss), colon cancer (estrogen helps prevent colon polyps), vaginal dryness (estrogen thickens vaginal walls and helps with lubrication), and reduced sleep (estrogen helps increase REM sleep and lengthen sleep). Get a bone density and take calcium and vitamin D. After age 50 get a colonoscopy. Use a vaginal moisturizer such as Replens to prevent dryness. Do yoga, relaxation and exercise to help with sleep. Consider sleep aids if needed. These things should help as well as talking with your doctor about alternatives to estrogen for any other symptoms you might have.
Machelle M. Seibel, MD