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Hormone Therapy for Menopause: What to Expect
Published: Dec 02, 2023
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can effectively relieve hot flashes and other symptoms. Understanding the process can help you make informed decisions about this treatment option.
Starting Hormone Therapy
Your doctor will assess your symptoms, health history, and risk factors to determine if MHT is right for you. Treatment usually starts with a low dose, which can be increased if needed. Estrogen is the main hormone used, with progestin added for women who still have a uterus.
Types of Hormone Therapy
MHT comes in various forms: pills, patches, gels, and vaginal preparations. Systemic therapy (pills or patches) treats whole-body symptoms like hot flashes. Low-dose vaginal estrogen treats only vaginal and urinary symptoms. Your doctor will help choose the best option for you.
Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment
Regular follow-ups are important to assess symptom relief and check for side effects. Your doctor may adjust the dose or type of hormone therapy as needed. Annual mammograms and pelvic exams are typically recommended while on MHT.
Stopping Hormone Therapy
MHT is usually used for 3-5 years or until age 60. When it's time to stop, your doctor will likely recommend tapering off slowly to minimize symptom recurrence. Some women may need to use MHT longer if benefits outweigh risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many women notice improvement in 2-4 weeks.
Possible effects include breast tenderness and bleeding, usually temporary.
No evidence shows it's safer or more effective than FDA-approved options.
Generally not recommended due to increased recurrence risk.
MHT doesn't typically cause weight gain.
Personalized Approach
Hormone therapy can be a valuable tool for managing menopause when used appropriately.
References
- The North American Menopause Society. The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause 2022; 29:767.
- Stuenkel CA, et al. Treatment of Symptoms of the Menopause: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2015; 100:3975.
- Manson JE, et al. Menopausal hormone therapy and health outcomes during the intervention and extended poststopping phases of the Women's Health Initiative randomized trials. JAMA 2013; 310:1353.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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