http://www.TakeBackYourHealth.com Inflammation and Pain Changes in metabolism (internal chemistry) also occur during the menopause, but may not cause symptoms until later. The bones lose calcium more rapidly, especially in the first two to five years of the period. Other metabolic effects include a possible rise in blood pressure, and an increase in fats in the blood. A common remedy offered for some of the symptoms is estrogen replacement therapy. Because estrogen is associ¬ated with side effects and long-term risks, as well as benefits, a woman and her doctor must weigh the benefits against the risks before deciding whether to use estrogen replace¬ment therapy. Side effects of estrogen therapy may include nausea, breast discomfort, headaches, and mood swings just to name a few. Whether estrogen might increase the risk of breast cancer has long been a concern. For women who are at high risk, it is not recommended. Postmenopausal women who take estrogen without progesterone have an increased risk of endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus). The risk of developing gallbladder disease is modestly increased during the first year of estrogen replace¬ment therapy. Systemic Enzyme