Menopause

One of the most common treatments for the menopause is HRT, otherwise known as Hormone Replacement Therapy. It has been used for years and it has only been recently that fears have been announced over its possible implications upon our health. It is thought the prolonged use of HRT can in fact lead to conditions such as Heart Disease and Cancer. So, with these new claims arising, should you really take HRT to help with the menopause?

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Taking HRT

The reason HRT has been used for so many years, is because it is a really good treatment for the menopause. However, the new developments that have come about show clearly that as with many things, there are also a few disadvantages which tell us we might not necessarily be doing ourselves any favours by using it. So, just how do you decide whether taking HRT for the menopause is the best option for us?

Well, the benefits of HRT include the fact that it stops hot flushes. There are many things that you can try in order to prevent hot flushes and to get rid of them once they are here, but HRT is definitely the best treatment to cure those horrid, hot flushes. It can also change any long lasting effects on the vagina, as often the skin changes and it is possible for you to lose your interest in sex as it could well end up too painful.

Another great advantage of HRT is because it relieves a lot of the symptoms, it often leaves us feeling less irritable and that can be better for our mood swings. Finally, there are actually some health benefits of HRT such as the fact that it helps to prevent Osteoporosis and bowel cancer. So, what about the downsides?

The only downside of taking HRT is the fact that it can slightly increase the chances of you developing various health conditions. However, these health conditions are fairly serious and they tend to include Thrombosis, Ovarian cancer, Heart attack and Breast cancer as well as giving you a higher chance of having dementia. So, things certainly don't look good when you look at that list!

Experts do stress that the chances are slim, but for the reason that it does increase the risk of certain conditions, some doctors do recommend that you do not use it for more than a few years. It all depends entirely upon your own preferences as to whether you decide you want to take it but overall many women find it extremely helpful. The debate will always continue over the best treatment and whether hormone replacement therapy is safe to use, but for some women the risks are worth it.

Facts About HRT |