Question:
Will my wife suffer any side effects if she has HRT (hormone replacement therapy)?

Answer:

Many people are naturally interested in the pros and cons of HRT, especially since so much has been written about it in recent years. But it's reassuring to note that these days, hormone replacement therapy is very much tailored to an individual woman's needs. Risks and of course, benefits, are carefully weighed up before prescribing. On the plus side, many women find that HRT provides welcome relief from the symptoms of a miserable menopause. Flushing red like a beetroot, soaking sheets at night or mood changes can certainly affect quality of life. And many women find HRT invaluable through those first few years of hormonal transition.

However, in general, the gold standard approach at present is to use the shortest dose for the shortest time. This is quite different from the approach adopted 10-15 years ago, when HRT was more widely prescribed on a longer-term basis. It was almost touted as a panacea. But research has continued to shape our opinions and studies done about six years ago, generated plenty of concern and debate over findings that HRT might slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, strokes and heart disease.

These results were sobering and many women deserted HRT in droves. Since then, further evidence has emerged that the risks of HRT may vary depending on a woman's age and the length of treatment time with HRT (for example, the heart disease risks might be far lower for younger women on short-term HRT). The effects of HRT will vary from woman to woman and that is why the prescribing doctor will always take into account family history, reproductive history and heart, stroke, and breast disease. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, weight, blood pressure, and alcohol, will also be considered. Research will continue to shape our opinion and with time, the advice on HRT will no doubt shift again. In the meantime, there are still a large number of women who appreciate being given the option of maintaining their oestrogen through HRT and minimising uncomfortable menopause symptoms.

Side effects and issues, including the small, increased risk of serious conditions, such as breast cancer, need to be canvassed but, as with other medications, the use of HRT is based on individual, informed choice. If you would like to know more about your wife's particular situation (and if your wife is okay with it) have a joint chat with her doctor so you can discuss any issues further.