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What are the benefits and risks of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT)? |
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Early research on MHT (previously known as hormonal replacement therapy) mainly highlighted the risks associated with it, especially its links to breast cancer, stroke, and heart disease. However, more recent studies emphasize the benefits of MHT when tailored to a person’s unique needs and started near the onset of menopause. There’s also a growing recognition of the importance of choosing the right type of hormones and monitoring therapy over time.
The top benefits of MHT include:
- Relief of menopausal symptoms: such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
- Improved bone health: including reduced risk of osteoporosis and fractures and maintained bone density, which can be especially beneficial for women at higher risk of bone loss
- Relief from urogenital symptoms: such as vaginal atrophy and urinary incontinence, which often result from estrogen deficiency
- Improved quality of life: including improved overall health, mood, and sexual well-being
MHT also has risks, including the increased risk of these conditions:
- Certain cancers: Prolonged use of MHT has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, specifically with combined estrogen-progestin therapy. Estrogen-only therapy has been linked to an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
- Endometrial hyperplasia: In people with an intact uterus, estrogen-only therapy can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (a thickening of the cells that line the inside of the uterus). This condition is not cancerous but is a precursor to endometrial cancer.
- Heart disease: This risk is pronounced in people who start MHT later or have risk factors for heart disease.
- Blood clots and stroke: Oral MHT may increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (a blockage in the arteries of your lungs), particularly in women with other risk factors.
- Gallbladder disease: This risk may be greater with oral forms of MHT.
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| Do you have any questions for our menopause experts? Let us know at menopause@healthline.com and the answer may be featured in an upcoming edition! |
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