Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT?

Declining Estrogen levels are responsible for rapid bone loss, both during and after menopause. This is because the bones depend on Estrogen to regulate and maintain their density. Though bone-loss is fastest during the 5 years after the menopause, it continues for up to 20 yrs. It has been shown that by replacing the estrogen after the menopause, women have significantly denser bones and fewer fractures, than those who do not undergo replacement therapy. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which refers to replacement of estrogen hormone, combined with calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise, is the overall plan. In fact, adequate calcium intake can reduce the dose of estrogen necessary.

What are the other benefits of HRT?

The other benefits of HRT are that it reduces the risk of heart disease, urinary tract infections and cancer of the ovaries. It also helps to overcome the symptoms of menopause.

Is HRT contra-indicated in any medical condition?

Yes, there are many medical conditions such as breast cancer, where decreasing the hormone level is an important part of the therapy. In people predisposed to these conditions, HRT is not advised. There is not enough evidence to suggest whether HRT increases the chance of breast cancer. But, women should undertake self-examination and mammography regularly.

Why is HRT not very popular in India?

The fear of potential risk of cancer, the hassles of menstrual bleeding, expense of the medicine and lack of information, all contribute to the low percentage of women in India not taking to HRT.