It should be noted that these trials included few women aged < 60 Stroke, coronary heart disease and pulmonary embolism. 5 The trials were stopped early due to increased risks of breast cancer, † The Women’s Health Initiative trials investigated whether MHT would reduce the incidence of heart disease, cancerĪnd fractures in postmenopausal women. Is now referred to as MHT to differentiate it from hormone replacement for other endocrine conditions, * Hormone replacement therapy for peri- or postmenopausal women Likely to outweigh the risks in most women with menopause symptoms affecting their quality of life if they are aged < 60 † Evidence from longer-term follow-ups of these trials,Īs well as from other RCTs and observational studies, has led to international consensus that the benefits of MHT are Raised concerns about the safety of this treatment. MHT use has been controversial, largely due to early research findings from the Women’s Health Initiative trials that MHT * is the most effective treatment for the vasomotor symptoms and urogenital atrophy associated with menopause.
Their symptoms troublesome enough to seek assistance, but some women may experience symptoms which significantly affect Is available on ethnic or cultural differences or preferred treatment approaches. Most women close to the age of menopause in New Zealand report they have menopausal symptoms when asked, but little data Menopause is associated with a range of symptoms including hot flushes and night sweats (vasomotor symptoms), vaginalĭryness, itching or pain during intercourse, changes in mood or sleep patterns, and joint or musculoskeletal discomfort. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT): still an effective treatment for menopausal symptoms † Unless they are taking oestrogen + bazedoxifene (not funded) * Stroke and VTE risk do not appear to be affected by duration of treatment, but are influenced by the woman’s age. This includes moisturisers, lubricants or a vaginal oestrogen cream or pessary.