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Why do postmenopausal women discontinue hormone replacement therapy?
T Vihtamäki1, R Savilahti, R Tuimala
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Tampere, Finland. tv43532@uta.fi
Maturitas
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Many postmenopausal women use hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but side effects and fear of cancer lead to discontinuation. Improved patient information on HRT is needed.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Public Health
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment for menopausal symptoms.
- Understanding HRT usage patterns and reasons for discontinuation is crucial for improving women's health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and acceptance of HRT in Finnish women aged 50-60.
- To identify factors contributing to the premature cessation of HRT.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was administered to 884 women aged 50-60 in Finland.
- The survey assessed current, previous, and non-user status of HRT, as well as reasons for discontinuation.
Main Results:
- 39% of postmenopausal women were current HRT users, while 16% were previous users.
- The primary reason for discontinuing HRT was side effects (41%), followed by fear of cancer (16%) and physician recommendation (12%).
- 11% of current and previous HRT users reported receiving no information about the therapy.
Conclusions:
- Over half of postmenopausal women surveyed had used HRT, with one-third discontinuing treatment.
- Side effects, cancer fears, and physician advice significantly impact HRT continuation.
- A notable percentage of women lacked adequate information regarding HRT.