The Latest Research on Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a scary prospect, especially for women living with a higher risk of breast or ovarian cancer. It can also offer some amazing benefits. The popularity of HRT has risen and fallen over the years due to fluctuating opinions over its safety. The latest research suggests HRT can benefit women suffering from menopausal symptoms and primary ovarian insufficiency, and it can reduce their risks of osteoporosis and coronary heart disease. But there is a dark side as HRT can cause blood clots and certain cancers in some people. The risks are relatively low and often don’t outweigh the benefits, though. See the most recent findings on HRT in the article below.We’ve sifted through the latest research and compiled a short but comprehensive overview.

HRT: The Basics

HRT is most commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. But it can also increase the risks of blood clots and certain types of cancers, which has caused HRT to drop in popularity over recent years. Most women can remain healthy without HRT, although untreated early menopause (especially before 45) may lead to health issues, such as osteoporosis and heart disease. So it may be worth considering especially in these cases.

Most HRT contains estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone. Progesterone-based HRT is less likely to cause breast cancer than combination HRT, which can increase risks by as much as 75%, even with short-term use.

Reduces Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death in women, and menopause increases CHD risk. This is because lower levels of estrogen can cause unhealthy changes to the vascular system and alter the metabolism, both of which can put a strain on the heart. There’s been some argument over the years as to whether HRT can help prevent CHD, but the most current research supports its use to reduce heart attack risk.

Treating Primary Ovarian Insufficiency

HRT is often a necessary treatment for primary ovarian insufficiency, or early menopause. Young women who don’t get the hormones their bodies naturally need have a higher chance of developing osteoporosis and heart disease, regardless of their age. The goal in treating primary ovarian insufficiency is to mimic the hormone fluctuations a woman would normally have until menopause, ending treatment at around age 50.

Latest Studies on HRT and Breast Cancer

The connection between HRT and breast cancer is very real, but perspectives on the overall risks have fluctuated over the years. The current attitude has been shifting to a more forgiving one, with the most current research suggesting HRT is generally safe to use in most healthy women younger than 60. And the risk seems to be much less in progesterone-only therapies.

HRT shouldn’t be taken lightly, but it can be a safe and effective treatment for menopausal symptoms and related health conditions. Rest assured that for those who do decide to go with treatment, the latest research suggests HRT’s benefits will likely outweigh the risks.

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