HRT is also known as Hormone Therapy (HT) or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). It is the use of hormones, for managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms and to try and minimise some of the longer-term effects of menopause.
HRT can be very effective for and very helpful for many women especially when symptoms adversely affect quality of life.
HRT is useful for relief of menopausal symptoms including:
HRT can also benefit women who are not suffering significant menopausal symptoms but wish to get the benefits of hormone therapy such as protection for their heart and bones, ideally starting it within ten years of menopause or before the age of 60.
However, do remember hormone therapy will not change life circumstances and stress perhaps due to other factors. In these situations, HRT may not be as helpful as one hoped.
Also not all women can or want to take hormone therapy and should be supported in their decision with appropriate evidence-based information.
That said, do remember HRT is safe for the vast majority of women with no real risks with breast cancer or clots with the current preparations
Before starting HRT, your doctor will take a thorough history from you and examine you appropriately. They should advise you on the preparations most suited for you as well as any risks and benefits specifically for you as well as discuss any concerns you may have. Do mention to your doctor any MEDICAL information including any known relevant family history.
HRT is available as tablets, skin patches, gels or nasal spray.
HRT provides low doses of oestrogen and progesterone. You don’t need progesterone if you have had your womb removed as it is used to protect your womb from developing uterine cancer if only oestrogen is used.
Sometimes testosterone is added to improve sex drive, libido, bone health and concentration.
I also tell my patients, whether you plan to use HRT or not, do try and follow a lifestyle and a diet that helps you with your menopausal symptoms and overall health and wellbeing.
There is a lot more written information on HRT that you can also access during the course.
Our Happy Menopause course is included in our Whole Health Membership; it aims at helping you to improve your menopause symptoms in just 28 days without medication.
Led by Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr. Nitu Bajekal, this course offers expert insights into managing menopause symptoms and maintaining hormonal health. With Dr. Nitu's extensive clinical experience and practical advice, you'll gain the knowledge and tools to thrive during this significant life stage.
Dr. Nitu Bajekal is a Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist based in the UK, boasting over 35 years of clinical experience in reproductive and women's health. Renowned for her expertise and compassionate care, Dr. Nitu has dedicated her career to improving the health and well-being of women. She is also the co-author of "Living PCOS Free," a practical guide that empowers women to regain hormonal health and manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) effectively. Her extensive knowledge and commitment to patient education make her a leading figure in the field of women's health.
I went from being really active to getting out of bed and everything hurts. I had terrible fatigue, soreness, joint pains and heart palpitations; and I didn't want to do Hormone Replacement Therapy. Then I found The Happy Menopause Course. The content is great, Dr. Nitu is wonderful, The Happy Pear Recipes are so practical, so simple and so tasty (the Lemon Meringue Crunch bars are off the charts!). This course is the perfect way to support your body, move it more, and keep it healthy. I've adopted so many positive habits, and I went from feeling 48% to 110%."
