Health encyclopaedia

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Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the artificial replacement of the female hormone oestrogen in women who are going through the menopause.

During the years between puberty and the menopause, women’s ovaries make a hormone called oestrogen. Oestrogen has many functions. The main one is to stimulate development of the female sexual characteristics: breasts, pubic hair and body shape, and development of the genitals and womb.

The menopause in women normally happens around the age of 50, when the ovaries, which produce reproductive hormones, shut down either suddenly or gradually.  This has many effects. The risk of heart disease and stroke increases after the menopause, and the 3% to 5% loss in bone mass every year due to lack of oestrogen can lead to brittle bones and osteoporosis.

Periods become irregular and stop, and many women develop hot flushes and night sweats, with mood swings and depression. Loss of sex drive and vaginal dryness are common, which can lead to relationship difficulties.

HRT can help to reduce the symptoms of the menopause, but it can also have serious side effects. You should discuss the risks and benefits fully with your doctor before making a decision on whether to take HRT.

• When should it be done?
• Results
• Definition

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