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Published on: August 13, 2019
Low-dose hormone therapy in the perimenopause
P De Franciscis1, L Cobellis, F Fornaro
1Outpatient menopausal clinic, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Sciences, Second University of Naples, Largo Madonna delle Grazie, 80138 Naples, Italy. pasquale.defranciscis@unina2.it
Summary
Low-dose hormone therapy (LD-HT) effectively reduced hot flushes and improved bleeding patterns in perimenopausal women. This treatment offers a potential solution for managing common menopausal symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Menopause Management
Background:
- Perimenopause is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles and vasomotor symptoms like hot flushes.
- Hormone therapy is a common treatment, but optimal dosing for symptom control requires further investigation.
- Low-dose hormone therapy (LD-HT) presents a potential alternative for managing perimenopausal symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of low-dose hormone therapy (LD-HT) in managing bleeding patterns and vasomotor symptoms.
- To compare the effects of sequential estrogen-progestogen LD-HT with progestogen-only therapy in perimenopausal women.
- To evaluate the impact of LD-HT on the frequency and severity of hot flushes.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, open-label study involving 120 perimenopausal women.
- Randomization into two groups: Group A received LD-HT (micronized 17beta-estradiol 1 mg plus dydrogesterone 10 mg sequential), and Group B received dydrogesterone 10 mg (days 15-28).
- Assessment of hot flush frequency/severity and bleeding patterns throughout the study period.
Main Results:
- Group A (LD-HT) demonstrated a significant reduction in the number of hot flushes compared to Group B.
- The incidence of cyclic bleeding was higher in Group A (86%) than in Group B (76%).
- Group A experienced a significantly shorter mean duration of bleeding compared to Group B.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose hormone therapy (LD-HT) is effective in controlling both irregular bleeding and hot flushes in perimenopausal women.
- Sequential estrogen-progestogen LD-HT offers a viable option for managing common menopausal symptoms.
- Further research may explore long-term effects and optimal LD-HT regimens.
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