Also called: ERT, Estrogen replacement therapy, HRT, Menopausal hormone therapy
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her period stops.
It is a normal part of aging. In the years before and during menopause, the levels of
female hormones can go up and down. This can cause symptoms such as hot flashes and
vaginal dryness. Some women take hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also called menopausal hormone therapy, to relieve these symptoms. HRT may also protect against
osteoporosis.
However, HRT also has risks. It can increase your risk of
breast cancer,
heart disease, and
stroke. Certain types of HRT have a higher risk, and each woman's own risks can vary
depending upon her health history and lifestyle. You and your health care provider need to discuss the risks and benefits for you. If you do decide to take HRT, it should be the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time needed. Taking hormones should be re-evaluated every six months.
NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
National Library of Medicine | National Institutes of Health | Department of Health and Human Services
Stopping Hormone Therapy May Have Its Own Risks