Questions on menopause

How long does it take for menopause to occur?
Menopause is a process that typically begins in a woman’s mid-40s and lasts about 5 years. The average age for the onset of menopause is 51.

What are the symptoms of menopause?
The symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and loss of libido. Some women also experience night sweats, headaches, joint pain, loss of bladder control, and weight gain.

What is hormone replacement therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that replaces estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that decline during menopause. Estrogen and progesterone are both female sex hormones. HRT typically involves the use of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), progesterone replacement therapy (PRT), or a combination of both.

Is HRT safe for women who have had breast cancer?
HRT is safe for women who have had breast cancer, but they must be monitored closely by their healthcare provider. HRT is not recommended for women who have had breast cancer if they have been diagnosed with a tumor that is larger than 1 cm or if they have a positive test for the hormone progesterone.

Is HRT safe for women who have had endometrial cancer?
HRT is safe for women who have had endometrial cancer, but they must be monitored closely by their healthcare provider. HRT is not recommended for women who have had endometrial cancer if they have a tumor that is larger than 1 cm or if they have a positive test for the hormone progesterone.

Can I take HRT and prescription medication at the same time?
Yes. HRT and prescription medications can be taken at the same time, as long as the healthcare provider approves the medication.

Can I take HRT and a nonprescription medication at the same time?
Yes. HRT and nonprescription medications can be taken at the same time, as long as the healthcare provider approves the medication.

Is HRT available over the counter?
No. HRT is available only by prescription from your healthcare provider.

Can I start taking HRT on my own?
No. HRT is available only by prescription from your healthcare provider.

How much HRT do I need?
The amount of HRT you need depends on your age, symptoms, and health. Your healthcare provider will help you decide how much HRT you need.

How often do I need to take HRT?
The frequency of HRT depends on the type of HRT you use. Your healthcare provider will help you decide how often you should take HRT.

How long do I need to take HRT?
The length of time you take HRT depends on your age, symptoms, and health. Your healthcare provider will help you decide how long you should take HRT.

What side effects can I expect from HRT?
Side effects from HRT include breast tenderness, nausea, vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, mood swings, bloating, and leg cramps. Your healthcare provider will help you decide if these side effects are worth it.

Can I take HRT and have children?
No. HRT is not safe for women who are pregnant or who are trying to become pregnant.

How soon after I start taking HRT can I have children?
The length of time between starting HRT and having children depends on the type of HRT you use.