What Causes Spider Veins?

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Individuals who take hormonal birth control, are a menopausal woman getting hormone replacement therapy, or are a transgender woman who takes estrogen, might have a higher likelihood of developing spider veins, as estrogen can weaken the valves in the veins. Estrogen hormone therapy is available in a variety of different formats. The right kind of hormone replacement therapy varies from patient to patient based on personal preferences, symptoms, health, and the goal of treatment. Individuals with uteruses tend to have progestin and estrogen given in combination, while those without uteruses tend to have just estrogen. Estrogen replacement therapy is most commonly offered through oral medication, which helps reduce menopause symptoms, and some studies indicate they can lower an individual's osteoporosis risk. However, these patients will have an increased chance of spider veins and may also have an increased risk of developing blood clots or having a stroke. When combined with progestin, they might also have a higher risk of heart attacks and breast cancer.

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