What You Need to Know About Hormone Therapy and Stroke Risk
Published: Nov 29, 2023
Could hormone therapy increase your risk of stroke? Let's dive into the details to find out.
Contents
Stroke Risk with Hormone Therapy
Clinical trials indicate that oral estrogen therapy may increase the risk of stroke. This risk is present regardless of age or time since menopause, although it's more pronounced in older women. Understanding these risks is vital for making informed decisions about hormone therapy.
Oral vs. Transdermal Estrogen
The method of hormone administration can affect stroke risk. Oral estrogen has been linked to higher stroke risks, while low-dose transdermal estrogen does not appear to increase stroke risk significantly. This difference underscores the importance of discussing administration methods with your healthcare provider.
Factors Influencing Stroke Risk
Factors such as age, obesity, and genetic predispositions like factor V Leiden can elevate stroke risk with hormone therapy. Lifestyle changes and medical interventions tailored to individual risk profiles can help mitigate these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially with oral estrogen.
Low-dose transdermal estrogen might have lower stroke risk.
Age, obesity, and certain genetic traits.
Key Takeaways
Consider stroke risks when evaluating hormone therapy options.
Explore your stroke risk with Doctronic before starting hormone therapy.Related Articles
References
Hendrix SL, Wassertheil-Smoller S, Johnson KC, et al. Effects of conjugated equine estrogen on stroke in the Women's Health Initiative. Circulation 2006; 113:2425.
Bath PM, Gray LJ. Association between hormone replacement therapy and subsequent stroke: a meta-analysis. BMJ 2005; 330:342.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.