HRT

Question 1

What does HRT consist of?

Answer 1

There are different types of HRT formulations available for use

1. Combined HRT - this contains oestrogen and progetserone (preferred therapy)
2. Oestrogen alone HRT - this contaisn only oestrogen

Question 2

When would oestrogen only HRT be used?

Answer 2

In women who have had a hysterectomy (no uterus)

Question 3

What is HRT used to treat?

Answer 3

1. Used to delay early menopause in women <50yrs

2. Used to treat menopausal symptoms

Question 4

If a woman only experiences menopausal symptoms of vaginal dryness what would be the preferred treatment?

A) Combined HRT
B) Oestrogen-only HRT
C) Vaginal oestrogen

Answer 4

Vaginal oestrogen

For women experiencing vaginal symptoms alone, vaginal oestrogen should be used

Question 5

HRT - adverse effects

Answer 5

• irregular bleeding
• mood changes/mood swings
• headache
• breast tenderness

• increased risk of cervical and breast cancer - increased risk of stroke and CVD
• increased risk of VTE

Question 6

HRT - contraindications

Answer 6

• breast cancer
• previous VTE
• pregnant
• CVD: angina, ACS

Question 7

HRT - interactions

Answer 7

• Carbamazepine: decreases effect of HRT