Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for Older Women: A Complete Guide
Many women experience uncomfortable changes as they enter menopause and beyond—hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, mood swings, brain fog, and bone loss are all common symptoms. For women over 45 or 50, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a powerful way to restore balance and improve quality of life. At Galena Wellness in Calgary, we specialize in supporting women’s hormonal health with personalized treatment plans, including advanced testing like the DUTCH hormone test.
Why Hormones Matter After Menopause
As estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels naturally decline, the body goes through significant changes. These hormones influence bone strength, metabolism, mood, memory, and even heart health. When they drop, many women experience frustrating symptoms that can affect daily life and long-term wellness.
Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women Over 50
HRT is designed to replace declining hormones and restore balance. Women who begin HRT often report:
✅ Relief from Menopause Symptoms – fewer hot flashes, better sleep, and improved mood.
✅ Stronger Bones – reduced risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
✅ Clearer Thinking – support for brain health, memory, and focus.
✅ Improved Sexual Health – more comfort, higher libido, and confidence.
At Galena Wellness, you’ll meet with Functional Nurse Practitioner Sandy Johansson, FNP, who works closely with you to create a customized hormone therapy plan. Sandy takes the time to understand your unique health history, symptoms, and goals—ensuring your HRT program is safe, effective, and aligned with your whole-person wellness.
DUTCH Testing: Personalized Insights for Better HRT Results
One of the most important steps in creating a safe, effective hormone plan is testing. The DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) test is more advanced than standard bloodwork because it measures:
Baseline hormone levels (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol).
Metabolites – how your body processes and clears hormones.
Stress and adrenal health, which play a big role in energy and mood.
With this data, Sandy and the Galena Wellness team can design a personalized HRT plan that’s safer, more precise, and more effective.
Types of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Systemic HRT: Pills, patches, or injections for whole-body effects.
Local HRT: Vaginal creams, rings, or tablets for dryness and urogenital health.
Bioidentical Hormones: Customized therapy that closely matches your natural hormones.
Is HRT Safe for Older Women?
Hormone therapy should always be individualized. Age, family history, and health risks all play a role in deciding whether HRT is right for you. With ongoing monitoring and advanced testing like DUTCH, HRT can be a safe and effective option—even for women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond.
Whole-Person Care at Galena Wellness
At Galena Wellness in Calgary, HRT is never a “one-size-fits-all.” We combine hormone therapy with functional medicine, nutrition, DUTCH hormone testing, red light therapy, and stress management tools like HeartMath® to help women feel their best at every age. Takeaway: If you’re struggling with menopause or post-menopause symptoms, hormone replacement therapy may help you regain energy, clarity, and confidence. Book a consultation with Sandy Johansson, FNP at Galena Wellness Calgary, and ask about bioidentical HRT and DUTCH hormone testing to see if it’s right for you.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2023). Hormone therapy for menopause. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/hormone-therapy-for-menopause
Mayo Clinic. (2022). Menopause hormone therapy: Is it right for you? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/in-depth/hormone-therapy/art-20046372
Precision Analytical Inc. (2024). DUTCH test: Dried urine test for comprehensive hormones. https://dutchtest.com
North American Menopause Society. (2022). The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause, 29(7), 767–794. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000002028