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Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), is widely recognized as the most effective treatment for managing some of the most disruptive symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Is it the right choice for you?
April 2, 2025

The Big Picture: Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), is widely recognized as the most effective treatment for managing some of the most disruptive symptoms of perimenopause and menopause—including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

But is it the right choice for you? And when should you consider starting? These are important questions to discuss with a qualified healthcare provider, but there are clear signs that HRT may be beneficial. Here’s what to look for so you can make an informed decision about your care.

What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

During perimenopause, the years leading up to your final period, your body experiences hormonal shifts that can lead to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms—including hot flashes, mood swings, cognitive fog, and bone loss.

HRT is designed to supplement the hormones that naturally decline during this transition. It typically includes:

  • Estrogen + Progesterone (for women who still have their uterus)
  • Estrogen Only (for women who have had a hysterectomy)

HRT is also recommended for women who enter menopause before age 45, whether naturally or due to surgical removal of the ovaries.

This therapy is available in various forms, including:
✔️ Pills
✔️ Patches
✔️ Creams & Gels
✔️ Vaginal Rings

While “HRT” is the commonly used term, many experts now refer to it as hormone therapy (HT) or menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) since the goal is to supplement hormones rather than fully replace premenopausal levels.

Studies show that starting HRT within 10 years of menopause can provide significant relief from symptoms while also reducing the risk of long-term health conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes.

6 Signs You May Benefit from HRT

While every woman’s experience is unique, the following symptoms may indicate that HRT could help restore balance and improve quality of life:

1. Frequent Hot Flashes, Night Sweats & Sleep Disruptions

  • Up to 75% of women experience hot flashes and night sweats during midlife.
  • Sleep disturbances caused by night sweats can negatively affect mood, energy, and brain function.
  • These episodes occur due to estrogen fluctuations, which affect the brain’s temperature regulation system.

2. Vaginal Dryness, Painful Intercourse & Low Libido

  • Estrogen plays a crucial role in keeping vaginal tissues lubricated and healthy.
  • Declining estrogen levels can lead to:
    ✔️ Vaginal dryness, irritation, and itching
    ✔️ Painful intercourse (“sandpaper sex”)
    ✔️ Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Low testosterone levels may also contribute to a reduced sex drive in midlife.

3. Mood Swings, Anxiety & Depression

  • Estrogen supports brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and emotional stability.
  • Fluctuating hormone levels in perimenopause can lead to:
    ✔️ Increased anxiety and irritability
    ✔️ Episodes of sadness or depression
    ✔️ Emotional overwhelm or mood swings

4. Irregular or Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

  • Before menopause, periods can become unpredictable due to irregular ovulation.
  • Symptoms may include:
    ✔️ Longer, heavier periods
    ✔️ Skipped cycles followed by excessive bleeding
    ✔️ Unexpected spotting between periods
  • In some cases, HRT can help regulate cycles and ease excessive bleeding.

5. Brain Fog & Memory Lapses

  • Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating are common midlife concerns.
  • Estrogen supports the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
  • Women experiencing brain fog may notice:
    ✔️ Increased difficulty focusing
    ✔️ Misplacing everyday objects
    ✔️ Struggling to recall words or names

6. Low Bone Density & Increased Risk of Osteoporosis

  • Estrogen helps maintain strong bones.
  • Women lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the first 5-6 years after menopause.
  • Osteopenia (low bone mass) increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
  • HRT has been shown to reduce fracture risk by up to 40%.

How We Can Help

If you’re experiencing menopause-related symptoms and need expert guidance, our trained specialists can create a personalized care plan to help you feel your best.

Ready for personalized support? Book a Teltra Virtual Visit today!