This can help you find out.
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| | Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), previously known as hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), has a controversial history. After a 2002 study by the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) linked MHT to cancer and cardiovascular disease, its use dropped dramatically. In recent years, our understanding of MHT has evolved, driven by advancements in research and clinical practice. | | Below, Stacy Henigsman, DO and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) (a set of standards that helps women locate clinicians who can provide optimal menopause-related healthcare), gives insight into who may be best suited for this therapy. |  | | | | | | Q | | Who is the ideal candidate for menopausal hormone therapy? | | | | A | | Generally speaking, the ideal candidate for MHT is a person who: - The decline in estrogen and other hormonal changes are linked to a redistribution of fat around the midsection.
- is under the age of 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset
- is experiencing significant menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness that impact daily activities and quality of life
- is at an increased risk of osteoporosis or has a history of fractures
- does not have major contraindications to the therapy, including unexplained vaginal bleeding, estrogen-sensitive breast and endometrial cancers, a history of blood clots, coronary artery disease, elevated triglyceride levels, or chronic liver disease
MHT comes along with risks, especially for certain groups of people. It's essential to consult your healthcare professional about your health history and risk factors to determine if MHT is suitable for you. This decision should be grounded in a thorough assessment of the potential benefits and risks, customized to your specific needs.
If you're not a good candidate for MHT, there are many alternative treatments that can help you reduce and manage your symptoms. These include lifestyle changes, dietary and herbal supplements, medications, and other alternative therapies. | | | | | | | | Have you had a positive experience with hormone therapy or do you have any other questions for our menopause experts? Let us know at menopause@healthline.com and the answer may be featured in an upcoming edition! | | | | | Stock up | | | | Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Now's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health. | | | | | | | | | | | HEALTHY TIP | | Work with a doctor to create a treatment plan | | Depending on the severity of your symptoms, it may be helpful to work with a doctor who can help you find relief and give you insight into the menopausal shift. Optum Now's Find Care tool can be an excellent resource for finding medical professionals who are familiar with hormonal and nonhormonal treatments. | | | | | | | |  | | | | We may feature your messages to our inbox within our content. Please do not provide any personal identifiable information. Replies may be edited for length and clarity. For more, see our Privacy Policy. | Healthline, Optum Now, and their respective logo(s) are trademarks of RVO Health, LLC.
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