Side Effects of Estrogen Replacement Therapy

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is primarily used by women before and during menopause to replace the estrogen that the body loses during the change of life. Also called hormone replacement therapy (HRT), estrogen is usually combined with progesterone to aid in relieving the symptoms of menopause. While the treatment can be effective, many women choose not to receive ERT because of the potential side effects.

Blood clots

• There is an increased risk of developing blood clots while on ERT, especially for women taking birth control pills and for smokers.

Heart disease

• Cardiovascular problems have been reported by women over 60 who take ERT or HRT. The National Institutes of Health reports that estrogen replacement therapy is safest for women under 60.

Cancer

• Women on ERT are at an increased risk for breast cancer after prolonged use. It's recommended that ERT and HRT be limited to less than five years.

Physical side effects

• Some immediate side effects felt by women on ERT include bloating, spot bleeding, headaches and breast soreness.

Gallstones

• Taking estrogen replacement drugs can increase the incidence of gallbladder disease, which appears in the form of gallstones.