|
|
Question: From Maine, USA:
I was diagnosed with Type 1 nearly 40 years ago and have minimal complications thus far. Will menopause increase the likelihood of complications? Is estrogen replacement important to preventing complications? I am 51 and beginning to have irregular menses.
Answer:
Many of the complications of diabetes are related to blood sugar control, and I don't think that menopause will automatically cause your control to change, if you are watching your blood sugar, and adjust the insulin as needed.
Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is probably a wise decision for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with diabetes, unless there's a specific reason (such as a strong family history of breast cancer) to avoid it. Estrogen not only protects the bones (in combination with vitamin D and calcium), but seems to decrease the risk of heart attack in women with diabetes. Talk to your doctor about if and when to start using ERT.
Original posting 9 Aug 1998
Posted to Complications
Advertisement
Last Updated: Sun Jan 15 12:03:03 2006
This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional.
This site is published by Children With Diabetes, Inc, which is responsible for its contents.
By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use, Legal Notice and Privacy Policy.
© Children with Diabetes, Inc. 1995-2008. Comments and Feedback.