Potential risks and side effects of HRT
- Increased Risk: May be associated with a slightly increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer, especially with long-term use of combined HRT.
- Endometrial Cancer: Estrogen-only HRT can increase the risk of uterine cancer if you still have your uterus; combined HRT is recommended in this case.
- Other Potential Risks: May include gallbladder disease.
- Common Side Effects: Breast tenderness, headaches, bloating, mood changes, nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding or spotting.
Important considerations
- Individualized Treatment: HRT is not suitable for everyone and requires a thorough evaluation of your medical history, symptoms, and potential risks by a healthcare provider. Click any appointment button on our website to make an appointment with a licensed physician.
- Timing of Initiation: Benefits may outweigh risks when HRT is started before age 60 or within 10 years of the onset of menopause.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up with your doctor is important to assess the continued need for and effectiveness of HRT.
- Alternatives: Non-hormonal treatments, lifestyle changes, and certain herbal remedies may also help manage menopausal symptoms.
Important Note: The information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your individual situation, determine if HRT is right for you, and establish a personalized treatment plan.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
HORMONE REPLACEMENT FOR WOMEN
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also known as hormone therapy or menopausal hormone therapy, is a medical treatment that can be used to alleviate menopausal symptoms and address low hormone levels in women.
What is HRT and how does it work?
- HRT replaces the estrogen that a woman’s body naturally stops making as she approaches and goes through menopause.
- It can be used to relieve symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
- Some women may also benefit from adding progestogen (a form of progesterone) to their HRT, especially if they have an intact uterus, to help reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
Types of HRT and forms of administration
- Estrogen-only HRT: For women who have had a hysterectomy (uterus removal).
- Combined HRT: For women with an intact uterus, combining estrogen and progestogen.
- Forms of Administration: HRT can be delivered via pills, patches, gels, creams, sprays, or vaginal rings.
- Systemic HRT: Absorbed by the whole body and treats a range of menopause symptoms.
- Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogen: Applied directly to the vagina to treat local symptoms like dryness and painful intercourse
Potential benefits of HRT
- Menopausal Symptom Relief: Effectively reduces hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep problems, and bladder symptoms.
- Bone Health: Systemic estrogen helps prevent bone loss and can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Cardiovascular Health: Some studies suggest that starting HRT around menopause may help lower the risk of heart disease in younger women.
