CA
A 28-year-old male asked:
Is hrt a necessary preventive measure for every menopausal woman or only those that are at risk of osteoporosis? i'm aware of hrt's potential risks
2 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Dennis Higginbothamanswered
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology 32 years experience
Many benefits: Hrt is known to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, colon cancer, alzheimers' disease, and osteporosis - when started at the time of menopause. Almost all studies show that women who take HRT are healthier and live longer than women who do not take hrt. There are few contraindications to hrt. Additional benefits include decreased hot flushes, decreased insomnia, and decreased vaginal dryness.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Robert Lang commented
Internal Medicine - Endocrinology 54 years experience
However, to minimize the possible side effects of HRT, do not use oral estrogen pills or synthetic progesterone.
Mar 5, 2012
Dr. Janet Greenhut commented
Preventive Medicine 45 years experience
Hormone therapy does not appear to protect against stroke and it may increase the risk. But since stroke is rare among younger women, the absolute risk of stroke is low. Low-dose estrogen and estrogen patches are probably less risky.
Mar 15, 2012
Dr. PHILIP WALLERanswered
Rheumatology 35 years experience
No: All women at menopause are at risk for bone loss some more then others. 10 to 15% of bone can be lost within 2 years after menopause. Hrt treatment may still be a viable treatment option but risks and benefits need to be discussed with your md. Calcium, vitamin d, and weight bearing exercise are important. There are also a number of meds that can be used to reduce bone loss.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 12, 2015
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