Treatments / HRT (hormone replacement therapy)

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HRT (hormone replacement therapy)

HRT is what it says, a replacement for hormones that the ovaries no longer produce. Some believe that no woman should have HRT, while others believe every woman should be given HRT. In reality the answer probably lies somewhere in the middle.

Most mammals do not have a menopause, as they have died before that time. Humans now live well past the menopause in large numbers. Some will benefit from HRT as it will relieve their symptoms, in others it protect their bones or heart from disease, while others do not seem to derive any benefit from HRT. The decision as to whether you should have HRT is an individual one. You should discuss this with your GP or gynaecologist.

Advantages of HRT

Many women feel very happy about using HRT. HRT can:

  • Control hot flushes and night sweats
  • Relieve vaginal soreness by reducing dryness
  • Maintain energy levels
  • Keeps the mind alert, reducing forgetfulness
  • Helps with depression
  • Helps their sex drive
  • Helps with muscular and joint pain
  • Reduce post menopausal bone loss for as long as treatment is being taken
  • Probably reduce heart disease and stroke
Disadvantages of HRT

HRT can:

  • Produce unpleasant or unacceptable side effects.•Altering dosage or the route of administration can often help, but not in every case
  • Increase the risk of breast cancer (from 5.2% to 5.5% risk after 5 years of HRT). No more women die from breast cancer, on or off HRT
  • Inflammation or itching when skin patches are used
  • Premenstraul type symptoms when taking progestogens
  • Continue with periods
Types of HRT

HRT can be taken as a tablet, as a skin patch, as a skin gel or as an implant. Progestogen can also be given via a hormone coil. If you wish to consider taking HRT or want more information visit your local surgery or your gynaecologist for more information.

Getting help

If you wish to make an appointment to seek further advice and or treatment, please contact Dr Harrington's secretary.

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