Menopausal hormone therapy

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and postmenopausal hormone therapy (PHT), is a form of hormone therapy which is used in women to treat the symptoms of menopause. This therapy involves the administration of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

Overview

Menopausal hormone therapy is used to help balance the levels of estrogen and progesterone in women during and after menopause. It is used to treat common menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and bone loss.

Types of MHT

There are two main types of MHT:

• Estrogen therapy (ET): This involves the use of estrogen alone, which is often prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy.
• Estrogen plus progestogen therapy (EPT): This involves the use of estrogen in combination with progesterone or a similar hormone, known as a progestogen. This is often prescribed for women who still have their uterus, as taking estrogen alone in these cases can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.

Risks and Benefits

While MHT can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause, it also carries potential risks. These include an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain types of cancer. However, the benefits and risks can vary depending on the individual, the type and dose of hormones used, and other factors such as the woman's age and health history.

Alternatives to MHT

For women who cannot or choose not to use MHT, there are other treatments available for menopausal symptoms. These include lifestyle changes, non-hormonal medications, and certain natural remedies.

See Also

• Menopause
• Hormone therapy
• Estrogen
• Progesterone

Menopausal hormone therapy Resources
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