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Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy is treatment that affects hormones, which are chemicals made by the body. Medicines or surgery may be used to add, block, or remove hormones from the body.

Hormones can be given as medicine if someone has levels that are too low, such as with diabetes or during menopause. Or they may be given to block the body's natural hormones to slow or stop cancer cell growth, such as with breast or prostate cancer. Hormone therapy can also be used as a part of gender-affirming care.

Sometimes surgery may be used to remove the gland that makes the hormone.

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.