It is difficult to make a definitive statement about when it is "too late" to start hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as there are many factors to consider. HRT can be an effective treatment for reducing the symptoms of menopause and improving quality of life for many women, but it is not without risks. The decision to start HRT should be made after careful consideration of the risks and benefits, in consultation with a healthcare professional.
The symptoms of menopause can occur in women in their 40s and 50s, and can last for several years. Many women experience hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and mood changes during menopause. These symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life. HRT can be used to treat these symptoms and improve quality of life.
There are two types of HRT: systemic and local. Systemic HRT involves taking hormones by mouth or through the skin. Local HRT involves using a vaginal cream, ring, or patch. Local HRT is generally less effective than systemic HRT, but has a lower risk of side effects.
The decision to start HRT should be made after careful consideration of the risks and benefits. HRT can cause side effects, including an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer. These risks are generally higher with systemic HRT than with local HRT. The decision to start HRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to start HRT?
There is no one ‘best’ age to start HRT, as the benefits and risks of starting hormones vary depending on a woman’s individual health history and circumstances. However, ideally, HRT should be started as soon as possible after the onset of menopause in order to maximise its benefits. For many women, starting HRT around the age of 60 years or later remains an excellent option.
How late is too late to start hormone therapy?
The International Menopause Society guidelines recommend that if menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is prescribed, it be commenced before the age of 60, or within 10 years of menopause. In practice, the majority of women seeking treatment of menopausal symptoms fall into this group.
Why was I not given HRT during menopause?
It is possible that you were not given HRT because your symptoms were not too bad, or you felt that you had to simply grin and bear your menopausal symptoms.
What happens when you stop taking HRT?
Some women stop taking HRT and find that they do not experience any worse symptoms as a result, while others may find that their symptoms return after a short while.
Is 60 too old to start HRT?
The short answer is that research suggests that it is not appropriate for women over the age of 60 to start HRT because the risks are higher. Bio-identical hormones are chemically similar in structure to the hormones your body would produce naturally, but they carry the same risks as conventional HRT and they are not licensed by the UK regulatory authorities.
