Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Safe? What the Latest Research Says
Menopause marks a major transition in a woman's life, and this doesn’t have to mean putting up with symptoms that negatively impact your quality of life. If you aren’t one of the lucky women who sail through menopause, you’re likely to experience challenging symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has evolved to become a safe and effective option for many women seeking relief.
For women in New York City seeking compassionate, individualized care, K & K OB-GYN & Cosmetics offers comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Our team is dedicated to providing up-to-date information and personalized treatment plans to help you navigate menopause with confidence.
How HRT alleviates menopausal symptoms
HRT restores hormonal balance to alleviate symptoms due to declining hormone levels during menopause. HRT can effectively reduce hot flashes, improve sleep quality, and address vaginal dryness.
Hormone replacement therapy also helps prevent bone loss, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
HRT is most beneficial when started within 10 years of menopause onset or before age 60, as studies have shown that initiating therapy during this window maximizes benefits and minimizes risks.
The safety of hormone replacement therapy
When the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study was released in the early 2000s, it raised widespread concerns about hormone therapy and its links to breast cancer and heart disease.
What many didn’t realize at the time was that most of the study participants were in their late 60s and well past the onset of menopause.
Since then, follow-up studies have clarified that HRT is much safer when started earlier, ideally within 10 years of menopause or before age 60. For this reason, concerns about the safety of HRT have evolved over time.
What’s changed in HRT safety
Recent research indicates that for healthy women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, HRT is a safe and effective option. The North American Menopause Society supports the use of HRT for managing menopausal symptoms.
Hormone replacement therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers or certain cardiovascular conditions should discuss alternative treatments with their provider.
K & K OB-GYN & Cosmetics conducts thorough evaluations to determine the most appropriate therapy for each patient.
Personalized hormone therapy options
Advancements in hormone therapy have led to a variety of administration methods, including pills, patches, gels, and creams. This allows for individualized treatment plans that align with your preferences and medical history.
Our team at K & K OB-GYN & Cosmetics works closely with you to determine the most suitable form and dosage of hormone therapy.
Relief from menopause symptoms
If you aren’t feeling like yourself or are experiencing menopausal symptoms and considering hormone replacement therapy, we can help.
Contact us at K & K OB-GYN & Cosmetics today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for managing menopause with confidence. Our offices are located in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan and in Brooklyn, New York.