Gynecologist Johnny Bryant, M.D., discusses HRT treatment options with a patient.

Research continues to uncover the effects of long-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In fact, women in two different studies on HRT were told to quit the treatment. Why? And what does this mean for you?

Understand Risks
“Women have long used HRT to ease symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and sleeplessness,” said gynecologist Johnny Bryant, M.D. “Others took HRT to obtain long-term health benefits, such as heart disease protection.”

One study has shown, however, that healthy postmenopausal women who took one type of HRT—estrogen plus progestin— for about five years had a slightly higher risk for heart disease, heart attack, breast cancer, stroke and blood clots.

While those women had a lower risk of colon cancer and fractures, experts like Dr. Bryant say the health gains may not be enough to outweigh the potential risks associated with long-term HRT use.

In another study of women taking only estrogen long term, researchers observed an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Another large study of estrogenonly therapy was halted in March 2004 because a higher risk for stroke was found to outweigh any potential benefits.

Find Expert Advice
Dr. Bryant said women concerned about HRT should talk to their doctors. “Together, you can evaluate your own health history and individual risk factors,” he said. Dr. Bryant said women should know:

• Short-term use of HRT still may be an effective treatment for some menopause symptoms.
• Estrogen-only therapy is still under study.
• Physicians’ knowledge is always expanding through research, but current knowledge suggests using the lowest dose that controls symptoms for the shortest period of time.

Evaluate Other Coping Strategies
If you and your doctor decide that HRT is not right for you, various options exist. For instance, simple lifestyle strategies often can ease the following menopause symptoms:

• Hot flashes—Avoid possible dietary triggers, such as spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine. Add tofu, soymilk and other soy products to your diet.
• Mood changes—Exercise and stressreduction techniques, such as Pilates and meditation, may improve mood swings.
• Urinary incontinence—Simple Kegel exercises, which involve squeezing and releasing muscles that control urine flow, can help.
• Sleeplessness—Exercise regularly.
• Vaginal dryness—Use natural moisturizers, such as vitamin E oil, sesame oil and olive oil. Or try over-the-counter waterbased gels.

What about HRT benefits for heart health and protection against osteoporosis? In addition to lifestyle strategies, such as a healthy diet and regular weight-bearing exercise, other medications exist that can help you manage these risks.

To learn more about women’s health, including hormone replacement therapy, phone Baptist Health Line at (270) 575-2918 or visit westernbaptist.com.

The Women’s Center at Western Baptist Hospital brings a broad range of services together in one place. It offers breast diagnostic services, bone densitometry, abdominal ultrasound and laboratory services. Get more information and take a virtual tour online at westernbaptist.com or phone Baptist Health Line at (270) 575-2918.