How much weight do you gain on HRT?

Written by Dr. Christopher Brown - January 08, 2023

Introduction

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment designed to replace the hormones that are no longer produced by the body due to natural ageing or surgery. For many people, weight gain is a concern when starting HRT. However, the amount of weight that you gain on HRT will depend on many factors, including your age, sex, genetics, preexisting health conditions, and the type and dosage of hormones you are taking.

Factors that Affect Weight Gain on HRT

Age: Older individuals tend to gain more weight than younger individuals. Hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, and as we age, the amount of hormones our body produces decreases, causing a slower metabolism and weight gain.

Sex: Male-to-female (MTF) hormone therapy can cause weight gain, while female-to-male (FTM) hormone therapy can lead to weight loss.

Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in how our bodies respond to hormone therapy. Some individuals may be more susceptible to weight gain due to genetics.

Preexisting health conditions: Individuals with preexisting health conditions, such as metabolic disorders, thyroid conditions or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may be at a higher risk for weight gain due to hormone therapy.

Side Effects of HRT

Weight gain is just one of the possible side effects of hormone therapy. Other side effects may include:

• Breast tenderness or enlargement (in MTF therapy)
  
• Acne or oily skin
  
• Hot flushes and mood swings
  
• Increased risk of blood clots or stroke

It is important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and if you do, they can often be managed.

Tips for Managing Weight Gain on HRT

If you are concerned about weight gain on HRT, there are several things you can do to manage it. Here are some tips:

• Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help increase metabolism, burn calories and improve overall health.
  
• Watch your diet: A healthy, well-balanced diet can help prevent weight gain and promote weight loss.
  
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce food cravings and keep you feeling full.
  
• Get enough sleep: Poor sleep can be a contributing factor to weight gain, so it's important to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience sudden or severe weight gain, it is important to seek medical attention. Sudden weight gain can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as fluid retention, heart disease or thyroid problems.

Final Thoughts

Weight gain is a common concern for those starting hormone replacement therapy, but the amount of weight gained will vary depending on individual factors. With regular exercise, a healthy diet and proper sleep, you can manage weight gain associated with hormone therapy. However, if you experience sudden or severe weight gain, it is important to seek medical attention to determine if an underlying condition is present.

At Hormone Treatment Center , our experienced team of doctors can help you make informed decisions about your hormone therapy treatment, including managing weight gain. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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