Hormone Replacement Therapy

Patient Information Leaflet

What is HRT?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) replaces hormones that naturally decrease during menopause.  It can help relieve menopausal symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Why might I be offered HRT?

HRT may help with:

·         Hot flushes and night sweats

·         Vaginal dryness or discomfort

·         Low mood linked to menopause

·         Prevention of osteoporosis (bone thinning)

 

Is HRT suitable for everyone?

HRT may not be suitable if you have:

·         Current or past breast cancer

·         Certain hormone-related cancers

·         History of blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism)

·         Unexplained vaginal bleeding

·         Serious heart disease or stroke

·         Liver disease or pregnancy

 

Your GP will discuss your individual risks and options with you.

How we prescribe HRT

At Lightwater Surgery we:

·         Make decisions together with you

·         Prescribe licensed treatments and doses only

·         Use safe, recommended doses

·         Offer regular reviews to maintain safety and reduce risk whilst on HRT. 

 

Important:

·         Only take HRT prescribed by your GP

·         Do not combine NHS and private HRT prescriptions as safety of this cannot be monitored. If found to have both; NHS prescriptions will be stopped. 

 

Types of HRT available

·         Tablets

·         Skin patches

·         Gels or sprays

·         Hormonal coil (intrauterine system)

 

HRT and weight-loss medications

If you are using medications such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide):

·         Tablets may be less effective

·         Patches or gels may be recommended

·         Your progesterone dose may need adjusting

 

Monitoring and follow-up

We will review your treatment:

·         After 3 months, then yearly

·         To check symptom control and side effects

·         To monitor blood pressure and weight.
please bring 5 days worth of blood pressure readings to your appointment

·         Blood tests are not usually required or ordered.

 

Breast awareness

While taking HRT:

·         Be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel

·         Report any changes (lumps, skin changes, discharge)

·         Attend routine NHS breast screening

 

When to contact your GP

Please seek advice if you have:

·         Unexpected vaginal bleeding

·         New breast changes

·         Side effects or concerns

·         Symptoms not improving

 

Your role in your care

You can help by:

·         Attending regular reviews

·         Taking medication as prescribed

·         Reporting concerns early

·         Being involved in decisions about your treatment