For healthy individuals under 60 and within ten years after menopause, MHT might be safe. It can improve your general quality of life, safeguard your heart and bones, and lessen menopausal symptoms.

Millions of women experience menopause each year. So why isn’t it discussed more?

We recently interviewed Stacy Henigsman, DO, MSCP, about using menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) to address menopausal symptoms since Healthline wants to support the conversation about menopause.

A note on wording

Another name for MHT is hormone replacement treatment (HRT). We decided to use MHT throughout this post because it is the more acceptable term while discussing menopause.

How has our understanding of menopausal hormone therapy changed in recent years?

Early studies mostly emphasized the dangers of MHT, particularly its connections to:

• breast cancer
• stroke
• heart disease

However, more recent research highlights the advantages when customized to your particular requirements and the time of MHT initiation. Nowadays, it is thought to be most helpful when begun close to the start of menopause.

Additionally, the significance of selecting the appropriate hormones and tracking treatment over time is becoming increasingly apparent. It can be beneficial to consult with your physician or a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP).

When is the best time to start menopausal hormone therapy?

Usually, the optimal time to begin MHT is during the first few years of menopause or around the time of menopause (when you have not had a period for a year).

At this point, the advantages for bone density and heart health are most noticeable, and symptoms are most likely to be severe.

Additionally, starting MHT within this time frame can provide the best defense against diseases like osteoporosis.

To find the best time for you, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider as the precise timing can change depending on personal preferences, risk factors, and health.

What are the benefits and risks of menopausal hormone therapy?

Among the advantages of MHT are:

• Relieves menopausal symptoms: Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, nocturnal sweats, and mood swings can all be lessened with MHT.
• Protects your bones: As your risk for osteoporosis and fractures increases after menopause, MHT can help lower that risk.
• Protects your heart: Research indicates that early initiation of MHT may help lower the risk of heart disease as a result of menopause.
• Improves quality of life: With MHT, many people report feeling happier, healthier, and having more sex.

However, MHT also carries some risks:

• Increased risk of certain cancers: Over five years of MHT use has been associated with a higher risk of breast cancer, especially when combined with specific forms of progestogen and estrogen therapy.
• Cardiovascular issues: Even while MHT can lower the risk of heart disease, some people, particularly those who begin MHT later in life, are at higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Blood clots: MHT may raise the risk of pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung) or deep vein thrombosis, especially in people who already have other risk factors.

Who is the ideal candidate for menopausal hormone therapy?

In general, the following people make the best candidates for MHT:

• experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms, such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, or night sweats, but without a history of cardiovascular disease or breast cancer, which could raise the risk of problems with MHT.

MHT is generally seen to be appropriate for people in good general health who are under 60 years old or within 10 years after menopause (perimenopause).

Before beginning treatment, it’s crucial to evaluate your unique medical history and hazards.

For a risk assessment, think about consulting your physician or an MSCP.

The takeaway

Over time, the discussions surrounding MHT have evolved. More medical specialists now acknowledge MHT as a successful treatment for menopausal symptoms.

Early initiation can help ease symptoms, safeguard the health of your heart and bones, and enhance your general quality of life.

However, there are hazards associated with this therapy. Consult your physician or an MSCP for their professional advice.