Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that involves the use of hormones to supplement or replace the natural hormones in the body. It is primarily used to alleviate symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances, most commonly associated with menopause in women. HRT can help reduce the discomfort and distress caused by declining hormone levels, enhancing the overall quality of life for those going through hormonal changes.

There are two main types of HRT:

Oestrogen-only therapy: This type of HRT is usually prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus). It provides oestrogen to supplement the declining hormone levels, which can help relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.

Combined Hormone Therapy: This type of HRT involves a combination of both oestrogen and progestogen. It is typically prescribed for women who have not had a hysterectomy. Combined hormone therapy is effective in managing menopausal symptoms and also reduces the risk of endometrial cancer, which can be caused by taking oestrogen alone.

Beneficial effects of using HRT: reduce hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness that often occur during menopause.

Oestrogen in HRT helps maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease

Risks and Considerations:
While HRT can be beneficial for managing menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life, it is essential to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with this treatment. These may include an increased risk of:
Breast cancer: Prolonged use of combined hormone therapy may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer.
Blood clots: HRT, especially oral forms, may increase the risk of blood clots, leading to deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

Stroke: Long-term use of HRT may be associated with a small increase in the risk of stroke.
It’s important to note that the decision to undergo HRT should be made after a thorough evaluation of an individual’s medical history, risk factors, and overall health.

Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause. It can start several years before menopause and is characterized by hormonal fluctuations. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals, but some common ones include:
Irregular menstrual cycles: Changes in the length, flow, and frequency of periods.
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Mood swings
Fatigue
Changes in libido
Changes in menstrual bleeding: Heavier or lighter periods, sometimes accompanied by clotting.
Brain fog
Menopause is defined as the point in time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Common menopause symptoms include:
Hot flushes and night sweats: These can continue during menopause and may decrease over time.
Mood changes: Anxiety, irritability, and depression
Vaginal dryness
Changes in libido.
Sleep disturbances
Weight gain
Hair and skin changes: Thinning hair, dry skin.
Urinary symptoms: Continued urinary frequency or incontinence.
Memory and cognitive changes: Some women report changes in memory and cognitive.

Menopause is caused by the loss of ovarian follicular function and a decline in circulating blood oestrogen levels. The menopausal transition can be gradual, usually beginning with changes in the menstrual cycle.