23/04/2025
Do I Need Hormone Therapy?
Perimenopause can bring a whole range of symptoms—hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings and more—that can really affect your everyday life. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one option, but it’s important to weigh up the pros, cons, and alternatives so you can make the right choice for you.
What Is HRT?
HRT involves topping up the body’s hormones with oestrogen, or a mix of oestrogen and progesterone, to help ease menopausal symptoms. It comes in different forms like tablets, patches, gels, sprays, and vaginal creams.
Pros of HRT
• Effective Symptom Relief: HRT is very effective at easing hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and trouble sleeping.
• Bone Health: It helps keep your bones strong and lowers the risk of osteoporosis.
• Mood and Cognitive Benefits: Some women find it helps improve their mood and mental clarity.
• Heart Health: If started before age 60 or within 10 years of menopause, HRT may help reduce your risk of heart disease.
Cons of HRT
• Health Risks: There may be an increased risk of conditions like breast cancer, blood clots, stroke, or gallbladder issues, especially if used long-term - especially with oral oestrogen. Transdermal oestrogen has been shown to be a lot safer.
• Side Effects: Some women may experience bloating, tender breasts, nausea, or changes in mood.
• Not Right for Everyone: If you have a history of certain cancers, blood clots or liver disease, HRT may not be suitable for you.
Alternatives to HRT
If HRT doesn’t suit you—or if you’d prefer to avoid it—there are other ways to manage perimenopausal symptoms:
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, eating well, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can really help.
• Non-Hormonal Medications: Some antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs), gabapentin, or clonidine may reduce hot flushes.
• Herbal Remedies: Black cohosh, red clover and soy isoflavones may help, though results vary from person to person.
• Complementary Therapies: Acupuncture, yoga, and CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) can be helpful for some women.
Making the Decision
Whether or not to try HRT is a personal decision that should be made with your doctor, considering:
• How Severe Are Your Symptoms?
• Your Medical and Family History
• Your Preferences – Are you open to medical treatment or prefer a more natural approach?
In conclusion, HRT can be a great support during perimenopause, but it’s not the only option out there. Understanding what’s available helps you make an informed choice that’s right for your body, lifestyle and health.
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Let’s talk about the best option for you, and remember—every woman’s journey through perimenopause is different.
Let’s help you make better lifestyle choices and start living your healthiest, happiest life yet.