Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in Chichester

FAQs

• For how long should HRT continue?

  Somewhere between 2 and 5 years is typical, though some people stay on it for longer. There's no fixed cut-off, since this gets worked out with your doctor based on your own symptoms and situation.

• Can I take HRT if I still have periods?

  Yes. A cyclical pattern of combined HRT tends to be used here, which brings on a monthly bleed similar to a period.

• Does HRT cause weight gain?

  There isn't solid scientific evidence tying HRT to noticeable weight gain.

• Can I still get pregnant on HRT?

  It remains possible. If you're under 50, you'll need contraception for 2 years counting from your final period, dropping to 1 year if you're over 50.

• Will HRT protect my bones?

  Yes. Raising your oestrogen level through HRT helps guard against osteoporosis, making it a sensible option if you're dealing with both weakening bones and menopause symptoms at once.

• I've seen worrying news stories about HRT, should I be concerned?

  Older research once made people wary of HRT, but that view hasn't held up well, since it looked at the downsides without properly weighing the upsides alongside them. These also involved synthetic hormones compared to more bio-identical hormones which are safer. Current guidance takes the position that, for most people under 60 with menopause symptoms, the advantages of HRT outweigh the drawbacks.