Hormone Replacement Therapy Options

Hormone replacement therapy is an effective medical treatment for the symptoms of menopause. Other benefits of hormone therapy may include a reduced risk of osteoporosis and heart disease if treatment begins during the early stages of menopause. Options for hormone replacement therapy include single hormone only or combination therapy, and various modes of delivery of the hormones.

Estrogen Only

• One option for hormone replacement therapy is estrogen only replacement. According to the Mayo Clinic, estrogen only replacement is commonly prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy.

Progestin Only

• Synthetic progestin replaces naturally made progesterone and prevents growth of the lining of the uterus and can reduce vaginal dryness.

Combination Therapy

• Hormone replacement therapy that includes both estrogen and progestin is called combination therapy and is prescribed for women who have not had a hysterectomy.

Skin Products

• Skin creams and patches may contain estrogen only or a combination of estrogen and progestin and are applied to the skin, usually on the abdomen.

Pills

• Estrogen only or a combination of estrogen and progestin pills may be taken daily or in cycles similar to the way birth control pills are taken.

Vaginal Creams

• Creams or gels inserted into the vagina usually contain estrogen only and relieve vaginal dryness but not hot flashes.

Inserted Devices

• Hormone replacements can be inserted into the vagina as tablets or rings; intrauterine devices (IUDs) may be inserted in the uterus to deliver hormones as well.