WHAT ARE THE OBSERVED BENEFITS OF ESTROGEN ON THE LOWER GENITAL TRACT?

Estrogen therapy is very effective in relieving vaginal dryness, provided that the estrogen dose is adequate. Progestogens alone are not effective alternative for the treatment of lower genital tract atrophy.

DOES ESTROGEN THERAPY IMPROVE LIBIDO AND SEXUAL FUNCTIONING?

Estrogen therapy appears to increase desire and satisfaction primarily through its pronounced effect on vaginal lubrication. It remains difficult to distinguish the relative contribution of aging and estrogen deprivation to decreased libido and sexual functioning.
In the absence of local vaginal problems, it must be noted that estrogen replacement is of little benefit in the treatment of decreased or absent libido, and should NEVER be taken for the same.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF HRT?

• Hot flushes occur less often and are less severe. They may stop altogether.
• Vaginal dryness and pain during sex also reduces considerably
• Helps reduce bone loss & thus prevent osteoporosis
• Protect against heart disease

WHAT ARE THE RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS OF HRT?

• Cancer of endometrium of the uterus (women with uterus removed don't have to worry about this). In others, taking progesterone with estrogen reduces this risk
• Some studies show a woman's chances of developing breast cancer is slightly higher than normal in those taking HRT for more than 15 years. Women on HRT should have monthly self-breast examination & annual mammograms.
• About 10% of women have bothersome side effects including breast tenderness, swelling, mood changes and pain in lower abdomen. With progesterone, one will have vaginal bleeding once every month
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, bloating and rarely jaundice