[Psychological aspects of decision-making by women about using hormone replacement therapy]

The number of women living to advanced age increases and also escalates an interest in efforts to prevent or reduce morbidity and premature mortality during the postmenopausal period. The use of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recommended by many investigators. While the prevalence of hormone therapy use has been studied, there is limited understanding of how women make a decision about whether or not to adopt hormonal therapy and continue its use. The number of women using HRT varies from 9 to 69%, and also the time of using it is different. Many investigators in Western Europe and in USA found that less educated women were less likely to opt for HRT. Professionally active women, women having children formed the group of estrogen users. The doctors advice has an important significance in making decision about using HRT. In our country there is a need for investigation about using HRT.