Health Disparities and Hormone Therapy Prescribing for Early, Peri-, and Postmenopausal Women: A Scoping Review

Menopause hormone therapy has improved the quality of life for perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women, yet women may not be prescribed or use this treatment option. The purpose of this study was to conduct a scoping review to assess whether health disparities existed in hormone therapy prescription rates and use for peri- and postmenopausal care based on demographic and clinical characteristics in real-world, observational studies conducted in the USA.

A chief librarian conducted a search strategy from 1940 to 10/31/2023 in five bibliographic databases. One hundred eighty-four articles were found through database and handsearching. After removing duplicates and excluding articles that did not meet study criteria, 14 articles were included in this review. Data were independently extracted and charted using a data extraction form, which was developed based on the study aims. Reviewers met to confirm agreement and discuss disagreements.

Sixteen health disparities, in menopause hormone therapy prescribing or use, were found in this scoping review. Differences between ethnic groups were found in 9 of 14 articles. Education level, menopause route, medical conditions, and practitioner specialization were in 4 of the 14 articles. The remaining 11 health disparities were categorized under chronic medical conditions and social constructs.

Health disparities have existed for decades in menopause hormone therapy prescribing and use for peri- and postmenopausal women. Identification of health disparities for underserved groups can help reshape educational initiatives for practitioners in all relevant disciplines.