HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to replenish a woman's shrinking hormone levels. Many women use hormone replacement therapy to relieve the discomforts of the physical changes they have during menopause. Fluctuating hormones cause symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. Hormones available in the form of a pill, vaginal creams, or patches are prescribed to keep the body in balance as it goes through the natural process of aging. Another important benefit of hormone replacement is prevention of colon cancer and osteoporosis.

Most women are able to take estrogen replacement therapy, but estrogen may not be appropriate for women with:

vaginal bleeding without a known reason
liver disease or poor liver function
recent blood clots or history of stroke
cancer of the breast or
cancer of the uterus

Estrogen taken alone increases the risk for cancer in the uterus. When it is combined with progesterone, another hormone, there is much less chance of cancer of the uterus. Women who have had their uterus removed can take estrogen alone.

Hormone replacement therapy is not without its own risk. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against the routine use of estrogen and progestin for the prevention of chronic conditions in postmenopausal women. The Task Force also states that the balance of benefits and harms for an individual woman will be influenced by her personal preferences, individual risks for specific chronic diseases, and the presence of menopausal symptoms.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all labels on estrogen and estrogen-progestin therapies be revised to carry a warning stating the increased risks for heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, and breast cancer.

After a complete review of the risks and benefits of this therapy and an exam, your healthcare provider may make one of several suggestions about estrogen replacement therapy. Most women use hormone therapy for 2 to 3 years. Some may require a longer period of treatment. Talk with your provider about your personal risks and needs. Together, decide if this is the best treatment for you. If you decide to take hormones, it is important to do breast self-exams monthly, have a mammogram every year, as well as a yearly pelvic exam with a Pap smear.

Hormone replacement therapy helps to protect the colon and bones from long-term problems and stops some of the more uncomfortable symptoms related to menopause. Women who are entering menopause should consult with their provider to choose the best course of treatment for their symptoms and state of health.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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