Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy

by Caroline
(UK)

From MedlinePlus A service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:-

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her period stops. It is a normal part of aging. In the years before and during menopause, the levels of female hormones can go up and down. This can cause symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Some women take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to relieve these symptoms. HRT may also protect against osteoporosis.

However, HRT also has risks. It can increase your risk of breast cancer, heart disease and stroke. Certain types of HRT have a higher risk, and each woman's own risks can vary depending upon her health history and lifestyle. You and your health care provider need to discuss the risks and benefits for you. If you do decide to take HRT, it should be the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time needed. Taking hormones should be re-evaluated every six months.

However, a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association based on data collected for the ongoing federal Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) found that women taking estrogen and progesterin (Prempro) had an increased risk of breast cancer.

There are many factors to be considered before starting a course of HRT, your medical practitioner is the best person to advise you. Do your own research too so you can evaluate the benefits and risks, and also consider alternatives.

You can read more about this latest study here :-http://bit.ly/9FD4RF