Hormone Therapy: Menopausal Hormone Therapy

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Women's Health
• Menopause Management

Background:

• Menopause significantly reduces estrogen, causing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, impacting quality of life for over 75% of women.
• Menopausal symptoms can include vaginal dryness, itching, dyspareunia, mood changes, hot flushes, and night sweats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy and risks of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) for managing menopausal symptoms.
• To outline current recommendations for MHT initiation, administration, and ongoing risk-benefit assessment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) efficacy and safety.
• Analysis of current clinical guidelines and risk factors associated with MHT.

Main Results:

• Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and offers benefits like reduced fracture risk and improved vaginal atrophy.
• MHT is associated with increased risks of venous thromboembolism and breast cancer, necessitating careful patient selection.
• Available MHT formulations include oral, intramuscular, transdermal, and intravaginal routes.

Conclusions:

• Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) decision-making requires individualized assessment, balancing symptom relief against potential risks.
• The lowest effective dose for the shortest duration should be used, with regular reassessment of the risk-benefit profile.
• MHT is typically considered for women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset experiencing bothersome vasomotor symptoms.