While every woman goes through menopause, some experience really difficult and severe symptoms as a result of the reduction in their hormone levels. The gradual drop in oestrogen & progesterone hormones can cause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, etc., and also lead to other health issues. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), or as it is also known, Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) is a treatment for menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
Some of you may find the term “hormone” worrisome and think it might not be safe for you. There are understandable concerns amongst many women who are left wondering – is hormone therapy safe for me?
Scientific studies, and decades-long research, has shown that hormone replacement therapy is safe. A recent review of long-term data by the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), the largest women’s health study in the United States, added to the evidence that HRT is safe for treatment of menopause-related symptoms.
However, as with many other medications and treatments, HRT may carry some risks as well. The benefits and risks of taking HRT depend on your age, your menopause symptoms and your personal risk factors. It is important that you understand both, so you can make an informed decision about your health.
Benefits of HRT
Hormone replacement therapy is essentially medication you take to replace the estrogen that your body stops making during menopause. HRT is considered the best line of treatment for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, mood swings and vaginal discomfort. HRT has also been proven to prevent bone loss, and therefore reduce the risk of osteoporosis or fractures in postmenopausal women. HRT can also help keep your muscles strong.
Risks of HRT
The risks of any serious side effects from HRT medication are usually very low, and depends on the type of HRT you are taking, the duration of your treatment, and your own personal health risk factors.
Certain HRT medications can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. If you have had breast cancer, or are considered high-risk for breast cancer, we may not advise HRT for you. While the risk is quite low (especially if you are under 55 years of age), it increases the longer you are on medication, and the older you are. It falls again after you stop taking it. HRT in tablet form can slightly increase the risks of blood clots & stroke. Again, this risk is still very low, particularly if you’re under 60. Other forms of HRT like gels may be more suitable for you if you have other health factors that compound this risk.
HRT benefits outweigh the risks for most women. But factors such as the age at which you start treatment, the duration of your treatment and your overall health will all have an impact on it. Women younger than 60, with low-to-average risk for cardiovascular disease and breast cancer who want to take hormone therapy may experience greater health benefits than risks during early menopause. It is important that you understand your personal risks and benefits of taking HRT, so you can take an informed decision with your doctor.
