Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat menopause symptoms and help prevent osteoporosis.
During menopause, the body stops producing estrogen and progesterone, two naturally occurring hormones. This change in hormone production can trigger a range of symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes.
How HRT works
HRT works by artificially replacing one or both of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. By mimicking their actions, HRT masks their decline. This helps the body react less dramatically to the shift and helps to ease menopausal symptoms.
Benefits of HRT
HRT is commonly used to ease severe menopausal symptoms that disrupt the quality of life, symptoms such as:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Low libido
- Trouble sleeping
Apart from helping with menopausal symptoms, studies show combined HRT may also protect against osteoporosis.
When and how to take HRT
When menopause symptoms begin to affect your relationships, work, or quality of life, then your doctor may suggest HRT.
HRT is a prescription medication that is available in various forms such as pills, patches, a cream or injection. The form that you take will depend on your own preference and needs.
Risks of HRT
Research shows that long-term use (5 or more years) of combined HRT may increase the risk of breast cancer, stroke and blood clots in the lungs. Experts tend to agree that for most women, the risks of long-term combined HRT outweigh the benefits. The general idea is for doctors to prescribe the lowest dose of estrogen necessary for the shortest period of time.
A trusted provider can help you weigh your own unique risk and benefit profile beforehand.
Alternatives to HRT
Hormone replacement therapy is not for everyone. There are multiple effective ways to help manage the worst of your menopausal symptoms—HRT is just one option. Targeted treatment options may also work. This includes
- Vaginal dryness – vaginal creams
- Mood changes – Relaxation and stress-reduction techniques
- Menopausal hot flashes – low-dose antidepressants -certain antidepressants may decrease
- Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) – A pill or patch typically used to treat high blood pressure might provide some relief from hot flashes.
Getting control of menopause symptoms may take some trial and error. It may also require using a combination of treatment options. Speak to your doctor to discuss the best way to achieve your treatment goals.
