HRT / MHT / Women
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), is a treatment used to relieve symptoms of menopause by replacing the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, that decline during this period. HRT is primarily used to manage symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. It can also offer benefits like improved sleep, reduced risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, and potential relief from overactive bladder and urinary tract infections. **Understanding HRT: *HRT involves supplementing the body with estrogen and sometimes progesterone, which naturally decline during menopause.
**Why it’s used: *It aims to alleviate the physical and emotional symptoms associated with menopause, which can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. **Who uses it: HRT is primarily used by women experiencing menopausal symptoms, though it may also be prescribed for other conditions or in specific situations. **Different types: *HRT comes in various forms, including pills, patches, gels, and vaginal treatments, and can be estrogen-only or a combination of estrogen and progestogen, depending on whether the woman has had a hysterectomy. **Benefits: *Beyond symptom relief, HRT can offer protection against bone loss (osteoporosis), improve cardiovascular health, and potentially reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Risk Statement: Like any medication, HRT carries potential risks, including increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and, in some cases, breast cancer, especially with long-term use. The benefits and risks of HRT vary depending on individual factors like age, medical history, and the specific type and duration of HRT.
