Oestrogen therapy in menopause

Oestrogen therapy

Oestrogen is a well established prescription therapy for hot flashes..Oestrogen also helps build bone mass,reduces the risk of fractures and improves cholesterol levels..Oestrogen can also be helpful in preventing urinary symptoms and in treating uncomfortable vaginal symptoms.Hormone therapy also referred to as hormone replacement therapy consists of oestrogens or a combination of oestrogens and progesterone.

Women who are on a combination hormone therapy with oestrogen and progesterone have an increased risk for heart attack,stroke and breast cancer..Women on oestrogen therapy alone have an increased risk for stroke and not for heart attack or breast cancer..Women on oestrogen therapy have an increased risk of developing endometrial cancer(cancer of the lining of the uterus)

Hormone therapy must be decided upon based on a woman’s medical history,severity of symptoms and the potential risks and benefits of hormone adminstration..Oestrogen is available in a variety of forms including vaginal suppositories and creams,skin patches and oral tablets..Once on oestrogen the person must be monitored regularly with breast examinations and mammograms.Women with heart disease must not take oestrogen therapy.Oestrogen therapy does not prevent pregnancy.

Women on oestrogen therapy also have a higher risk of developing gall stones,increased triglyceride levels,blood clots and vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse..