Articles
Hormone therapy: Is it right for you?
What are the benefits of hormone therapy?
Who should consider hormone therapy?
Who should avoid hormone therapy?
If you take hormone therapy, how can you reduce risk?
Content
What are the basic types of hormone therapy?
What are the risks of hormone therapy?
Who can benefit from hormone therapy?
What can you do if you can't take hormone therapy?
The bottom line: Hormone therapy isn't all good or all bad
Who should avoid hormone therapy?
Women who have or previously had breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, blood clots in the legs or lungs, stroke, liver disease, or unexplained vaginal bleeding should usually not take hormone therapy.
If you aren't bothered by menopausal symptoms and started menopause after age 45, you do not need hormone therapy to stay healthy. Instead, talk to your doctor about strategies to reduce the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease. These strategies might include lifestyle changes and medications other than hormone therapy for long-term protection.