Ask Emily — hormone replacement therapy
QUESTION:
What are the risks associated with HRT?
ANSWER:
In 2002, the Women’s Health Initiative reported that women on Prempro (combined
synthetic variants of estrogen and progestin) were at significantly increased risk
for breast cancer, heart disease, strokes, and blood clots. and a year later, dementia
was added to the list. The conclusion was that the risks outweighed the benefits.
In the intervening years reanalysis and further research have presented more mixed
results. In 2007, a reanalysis of the original WHI results suggested a lower risk
for heart disease in younger women, but this new analysis did not look at other
risks. The question of whether it increases cancer risk is still under debate.
Apart from an increased risk of disease, the list of side effects associated with
synthetic HRT is a long one. At Women to Women, we believe a woman’s individual
health history and quality of life must be carefully weighed when considering whether
or not to use HRT. There are numerous alternatives to synthetic HRT, many of which
do not include hormone therapy. What’s most important for a woman to realize she
has very good options that support, rather than compromise her long-term health.
Read our articles on hormone replacement therapy
More questions on hormone replacement
therapy
Our Personal Program is a great place to start
The Personal Program promotes natural hormonal balance with nutritional supplements,
our exclusive endocrine support formula, dietary and lifestyle guidance, and optional
phone consultations with our Nurse–Educators. It is a convenient, at-home
version of what we recommend to all our patients at the clinic.
If you have questions, don't hesitate to call us toll-free at
1-800-798-7902. We're here to listen and help.
Last Modified:
04/18/2011