5 Signs It’s Time to Think About Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormones play a critical role in maintaining overall health. As we age, hormone levels naturally decline. For some, these changes occur gradually and go unnoticed, but for others, they can trigger disruptive symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) offers relief for both men and women. While the underlying causes may differ, the goal remains the same: to restore balance, vitality, and well-being. Michael Rotman, MD, a board-certified urologist with offices on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and in Hewlett, New York, offers expert, personalized guidance on hormone therapy. 

If you’ve been wondering whether HRT could be right for you, here are five signs that may indicate it’s time to consider it.

1. You have frequent hot flashes or night sweats

Sudden heat surges and excessive sweating can take a toll.

For women, hot flashes and night sweats are classic signs of perimenopause or menopause. For men, they may be linked to a drop in testosterone. Either way, these symptoms can disrupt sleep, impair focus, and make daily tasks uncomfortable. If you’re frequently overheating, it may be time to explore hormone support.

2. Your mood or mental health has changed

Shifts in mood are not always just “in your head.” Hormonal fluctuations can impact brain chemistry and affect how you feel emotionally. Both men and women may experience increased irritability, anxiety, low motivation, or even symptoms of depression when hormone levels fall out of balance.

HRT can sometimes help stabilize those changes and restore emotional resilience.

3. You feel tired all the time, even after rest

Fatigue can sneak up on you. You may find it harder to power through the day, focus at work, or recover after exercise. When hormones like estrogen or testosterone decline, energy production and muscle recovery can suffer.

If your fatigue feels chronic and unexplained, hormone testing might be a good next step.

4. Intimacy is no longer enjoyable or comfortable

Hormones affect sexual health and desire in both men and women.

Low testosterone in men may cause a decrease in libido or issues with performance. Women may experience vaginal dryness, pain during intimacy, or reduced arousal due to low estrogen. These symptoms can affect your relationship and self-confidence, but they’re common and can be treated with proper support.

5. You’ve noticed mental fog or forgetfulness

When your thinking feels fuzzy, hormones could be part of the reason.

Estrogen and testosterone both influence brain function, including memory, focus, and clarity. You might find yourself misplacing items, struggling to concentrate, or forgetting tasks you usually handle with ease.

If this is becoming a pattern, your hormone levels could be worth checking.

What to do next

If these signs feel familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not imagining things. Hormone imbalances can affect adults of any gender. The good news is that safe, medically guided therapies are available to help you regain your sense of well-being.

Dr. Rotman can help determine if HRT is a safe and effective option for you.

If your body is telling you something, it’s time to listen. Call, or schedule an appointment online today.