During the transition to menopause—known as perimenopause or menopause—hormone levels decrease, leading to hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. hormone replacement las vegas therapy (HRT) is a treatment that replenishes the hormones estrogen and progestin to relieve symptoms and promote long-term health benefits like bone loss prevention.

The term “hormone replacement” is a little misleading, because the medicine doesn’t replace your own hormones—it simply helps balance the natural ones that are already in your body. Your doctor may prescribe different forms of HRT depending on your medical history, age, and other risk factors. These medications can be taken as pills, patches, or gels and are available over-the-counter or with a prescription. Your healthcare provider will talk to you about the pros and cons of each form of HRT and recommend what will work best for your symptoms, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Before 2002, when large clinical trials showed increased risks of breast cancer and heart disease, women in the United States routinely used hormone therapy to treat menopause symptoms and protect their long-term health. However, since then, use has dropped as many women have opted out of the treatment because of concerns about the risk.

Women who are in their early to mid-40s and have a family history of breast, colon, or uterine cancer should avoid taking HRT for as long as possible. They should also be careful about certain activities, such as smoking or working with chemicals that can contaminate the medication.

How do I know if hormone replacement is right for me?

Hormone therapy can reduce menopause-related symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal discomfort, and sleep problems. It’s also been shown to prevent bone loss in postmenopausal women. However, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t cure your symptoms, and you should only use it if your quality of life is significantly disrupted by them.

Your doctor will determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for HRT by reviewing your medical history and assessing your risk factors, including your family history of health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, blood clots, and liver disease. They’ll also ask you about your lifestyle, such as if you smoke or have other health conditions that can increase the risk of side effects.

In general, you can expect to take hormone therapy for up to five years. After that, you’ll be able to stop or adjust the dosage depending on your health and family medical history. Using hormones for longer than this can increase your risk of osteoporosis and other health issues, so it’s important to discuss this with your doctor.