Hormone Replacement Therapy

HRT will start working right away. Most patients notice significant improvements after a few weeks and will feel the full effects up to three months after beginning treatment.

YES. Depending on the cause of the sleep disturbance. If the sleep disturbances is caused by vasomotor symptoms, estrogen surges can be the root cause. Similarly, progesterone has been shown to improve sleep quality.

That depends. Patients who begin HRT before their last period will take hormones cyclically and will continue to have their periods.

Patients who have not had a period for a year or longer will take HRT continuously. They will not have periods but may experience a bit of irregular bleeding or spotting when starting HRT. This should not last more than 6 months.

Factors such as family and personal medical history are important in determining whether hormone replacement therapy is appropriate for you. The doctor will assess your risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, blood clots, liver disease and osteoporosis.

Though symptoms of menopause may not require treatment, the potential long-term benefits of HRT to cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal health, and cognitive functioning may warrant receiving treatment.

Women can start taking HRT as soon as they begin to experience signs of menopause. These can include, but are not limited to:

• Hot flushes
• Vaginal laxity, itching & inflammation
• Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, lack of libido & reduced sexual enjoyment
• Urinary leakage & stress urinary incontinence (SUI), & increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Weight gain
• Hair loss, dry, itchy skin, dry eyes, joint pain, heart palpitations, abdominal pain, gum problems
• Low energy & fatigue, memory & concentration problems
• Disrupted sleep, night sweats & insomnia
• Reduced interest in socialising or feeling isolated
• Mood changes, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety & panic attacks