What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment used to replace hormones that are no longer produced by the body, typically during menopause or after surgical removal of the ovaries.
In menopause, your body experiences a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can cause a range of symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. HRT is used to replace these hormones and alleviate these symptoms.
There are different types of HRT, including estrogen-only therapy and combination therapy (estrogen and progesterone). HRT can be administered in various forms, such as pills, patches, gels, creams, and injections. The specific type and dosage of HRT depend on a woman’s individual needs and health status.
While HRT can effectively relieve menopausal symptoms, it may also increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer. Therefore, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with a healthcare provider before starting this treatment.
