WHAT IS HRT?
Back to topHormone replacement therapy are medications used to replace female hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) that are depleted in the body and areno longer produced by the body during menopause. [2; 3]
HRT should generally be started two to three years of menopause. HRT can be in the form of cream or gels, vaginal rings, tablets and skin patches. [1]
INDICATIONS FOR HRT [1]
Back to top- Treatment of menopause symptoms.
- To prevent osteoporosis in older women (>55 years) and bone loss in women with premature menopause (<40 years).
- Symptoms which indicate urogenital atrophy.
CONTRAINDICATIONS [1]
Back to top- History of thromboembolism.
- Thrombophilia.
- History of chronic heart disease or stroke.
- Current or history of breast, endometrial or other oestrogen dependent cancers.
- Liver disease.
- Undiagnosed persistent urinary tract bleeding.
- Hypertension that is untreated.
- Porphyria.
- Severe migraines.
COMPLICATIONS [3]
Back to top- Heart disease.
- Stroke.
- Blood clots.
- Breast cancer.
SIDE EFFECTS OF HRT [3]
Back to top- Breast tenderness.
- Breakthrough bleeding.
- Bloating.
- Nausea.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES WHEN ON HRT [2]
Back to top- Sensation of smoking.
- Healthy lifestyle which should include eating a balanced diet, eating healthy, managing stress and any other chronic conditions you may have such as
cholesterol. - Limit the alcohol that you consume.
- Wearing loose clothing.
