Hormone replacement therapy Flashcards
When does progesterone need to be given with oestrogen
When the women still have a uterus
Why is progesterone and oestrogen given
To reduce the risk of endometrial cancer
HRT for women who are still having periods
Cyclical HRT with cyclical progesterone and breakthrough bleeds to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer
Postmenopausal women with a uterus and more than 12 months without periods
Continuous combined HRT
Indications for HRT
Replacing hormones in premature ovarian insufficiency, even without symptoms
Reducing vasomotor symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats
Improving symptoms such as low mood, decreased libido, poor sleep and joint pain
Reducing risk of osteoporosis in women under 60 years
Benefits of HRT
Improved vasomotor and other symptoms of menopause
Improved quality of life
Reduced the risk of osteoporosis and fractures
Risks of HRT
Increased risk of breast cancer (particularly combined HRT)
Increased risk of endometrial cancer
Increased risk of VTE (2 - 3 x )
Increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease with long term use in older women
In which group do HRT benefits outweigh the risks
No increased risk in women under 50 years
No risk of endometrial cancer in women without a uterus
No increased risk of coronary artery disease with oestrogen-only HRT
Ways to reduce the risks of HRT
Reduced risk of endometrial cancer by adding progesterone
Reduced risk of VTE by using patches rather than pills
Contraindications to HRT
Undiagnosed abnormal bleeding
Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer
Breast cancer
Uncontrolled hypertension
VTE
Liver disease
Active angina or myocardial infarction
Pregnancy
Assessment Before HRT
Full history to exclude contraindications
FHx to assess the risk of oestrogen dependent cancers (e.g. breast cancer) and VTE
BMI and BP
Ensure cervical and breast screening is up to date
Encourage lifestyle changes that are likely to improve symptoms and reduce risks
How to choose a suitable HRT
- Do they have local or systemic symptoms? - topical vs systemic
- Does the woman have a uterus? (oestrogen only or combined)
- Have they had a period in the past 12 months?
- Perimenopausal: give cyclical combined HRT
- Postmenopausal: continuous combined HRT
Options for Oestrogen Delivery
Oral (tablets)
Transdermal (patches or gels)
When are transdermal oestrogen patches appropriate
Poor control on oral treatment
Higher risk of VTE, cardiovascular disease and headaches
Types of progesterone course
Cyclical progesterone
Continuous progesterone