Menopause is a natural stage in life, but for some women, the symptoms can feel overwhelming. Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is one option your doctor may recommend to help you feel better and protect your health.

What is MHT?

MHT is a treatment that replaces the hormones – mainly estrogen and sometimes progesterone – that your body makes less of after menopause. It can be given as pills, skin patches, gels, sprays, or vaginal creams and rings.

Why Start MHT?

Doctors may suggest MHT to:

• Relieve hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep problems
• Improve vaginal dryness and bladder symptoms
• Protect against bone loss and fractures
• Improve mood and quality of lifefor some women

When to Start MHT? (The “Window of Opportunity”)

The best time to begin MHT is usually within 10 years of menopause or before the age of 60. Starting MHT during this period may provide the greatest benefits and lower certain risks.

How to Start MHT?

Your doctor will personalize MHT based on your health needs:

• Types: Estrogen alone (if you’ve had your uterus removed) or estrogen with progesterone (if you still have your uterus or have endometriosis).
• Regimen: Can be taken daily, or in cycles that mimic natural hormone patterns.
• Routes: Pills, skin patches, gels, sprays, vaginal creams, or rings.

What are the Risks?

Like all medicines, MHT has risks. These depend on your age, health, and how long you use it. Possible risks include:

• Breast cancer (with long-term combined estrogen + progesterone use)
• Blood clots or stroke (especially in older women who start late)
• Gallbladder problems

Your doctor will weigh these risks against the benefits to find what’s best for you.

When to Stop MHT?

There is no single “right time” for everyone. Many women use MHT for a few years until symptoms settle, while others may continue longer under close medical supervision. The decision should always be individualized and reviewed regularly with your doctor.

Why This Matters

MHT can greatly improve quality of life for many women, especially when started at the right time. The key is personalized care – a plan made just for you, balancing relief from symptoms with long-term health.

Always discuss your options openly with your healthcare provider to decide if MHT is right for you.