Your medical history, symptoms, preferences, and personal risk profile all play a role in figuring out which hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is best for you.
Types of HRT
Systemic HRT: Systemic HRT replaces the hormones lost during menopause by administering oestrogen, either with or without progesterone. It is available in many different forms, such as pills, patches, lotions, gels, and sprays. Depending on your symptoms, preferences, and any underlying medical conditions, the precise type and dosage of systemic HRT may differ.
Oestrogen-Only Therapy: Women who have undergone hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) and do not require progesterone are frequently advised to undergo oestrogen-only therapy. Oestrogen can be applied topically or taken orally in the form of pills, patches, or lotions. If you had a hysterectomy or are unable to take progesterone due to a specific medical condition, oestrogen-only therapy may be appropriate for you.
Combined Hormone Therapy: Combined HRT entails taking both progesterone and oestrogen. Usually, it is advised for females who still have their uterus. In order to safeguard the uterine lining and lower the risk of endometrial cancer, progesterone is added. HRT that contains both oestrogen and progesterone can be taken continuously or cyclically (oestrogen daily with progesterone for a specific number of days).
Localised Hormone Therapy (HRT): Localised HRT is targeted at treating particular symptoms, particularly vaginal symptoms including dryness and pain during sex. It entails the use of vaginal creams, pills, or rings that administer low-dose oestrogen directly to the vaginal tissues.
Your choice of HRT will depend on a number of factors, including your general health, the kind and severity of your menopausal symptoms, your preferences for the method of administration, and any specific risks or contraindications you may have, such a history of blood clots or breast cancer. These factors, together with your medical history, will be taken into consideration by your healthcare provider when recommending the optimal type, dose, and duration of HRT for you.
It’s critical to have a thorough discussion with your GP or a menopause specialist, ask questions, and fully grasp the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option. They will be able to provide you with tailored guidance based on your specific circumstances and help you come to a decision.