Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which is also called opposed estrogen, is the use of a combination of two hormones, estrogen and progestin. It can be used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, that result from the changing hormone levels that occur before and after the end of a woman's reproductive years (menopause).

There are certain health risks related to HRT use. While most women do not develop health problems with HRT, a very small number of women get breast cancer, stroke, or blood clots related to hormone use. HRT is also thought to increase the chance of heart disease or dementia in a small number of women.

Women should carefully discuss their health risks and treatment options for menopausal symptoms with their health professional.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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