Hormone replacement therapy had recently been under a lot of cloud because of its alleged adverse effects on the health of women. A new study from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) shows that short-term hormone replacement therapy is suitable for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is the treatnment procedure that uses medication containing hormones like estrogen plus progestin, also known as synthetic progesterone. At times the treatment may involve estrogen-only therapy, especilaly for women who had surgical removal of their uterus. HRT is often used to treat symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, sleeping disorders etc.The research conducted by WHI is one of the largest and most statistically valid study of HRT done till date. The data for the study reveals that for women with severe vasomotor symptoms from estrogen deficiency can benefit from the short-term use of the therapy. Also women who have survived from gynecologic cancer also tend to benefit from HRT without any side effects or compromise being made on their survival.
However the research says that the patients should consult with their doctor regarding the options available to them regarding HRT and makes an informed decision on the procedure after looking into all the aspects related to the therapy.
Reference: International Journal of Gynecological Cancer, July 2005
