Scottish gynaecologists: their views on hormone replacement therapy

In a postal questionnaire Scottish gynaecologists were asked their views on the use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). They were almost unanimous in support of HRT, but varied in the circumstances in which they would recommend it and in the length of time they would prescribe it. The need for designated Menopause Clinics was seen to be limited, with most smaller Units preferring the present practice of menopausal patients being seen at general Gynaecology Clinics. Most of those replying thought that General Practitioners (GPs) should continue to be the main providers of the therapy but 89 (77%) felt that Well Women/Family Planning Clinic (WW/FPC) doctors could be an alternative source. Several problems associated with the use of the therapy were indicated. These included uncertainties about the risks of long term use and the management of unscheduled vaginal bleeding, but there was also concern over the administrative and prescribing costs if the therapy is to be widely used as prophylactic medication.