Women’s Health

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – The Basics

The most effective way to treat symptoms of the perimenopause and menopause is to replace the hormones that your body is no longer producing. Taking HRT also has health benefits as those who take it have a lower future risk of developing conditions including heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, depression and dementia in the future.

Women’s Health Pricing

HRT Related Questions

HRT is a hormone treatment that includes hormones estrogen, often progestogen and in some cases testosterone.

Estrogen – Replacement estrogen can be given to your body in various ways either as a skin patch or topically. The type of estrogen mostly used is the same molecular structure as the estrogen you produce in your body and is termed 'body identical'. It is derived from the yam root vegetable.

Progestogen – If you still have a uterus, then you will need to take a progestogen alongside the estrogen; this is known as combined HRT. Taking estrogen on its own can thicken the lining of your uterus and increase the risk of uterine cancer; taking a progestogen keeps the lining thin and reverses this risk. The safest type of replacement progestogen is called micronized progesterone; this is body identical.

Testosterone – If you experience symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog and lack of libido, testosterone can be beneficial (in addition to the estrogen) to bring about further improvements of these symptoms. It is available in a gel, cream or implant and while it is not currently licensed as a treatment for women, it is widely and safely used by menopause specialists.

Your symptoms will improve – most individuals feel a return of their ‘old self’ within 3-6 months of starting HRT.

Your risk of developing osteoporosis will reduce – your bones will be protected from weakening due to lack of estrogen.

Your risk of cardiovascular disease will reduce – you will be less likely to develop heart problems, stroke or vascular dementia.

Your risk of other diseases will reduce – those who take HRT also have a lower future risk of type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, bowel cancer, and depression.

For the majority of those who take HRT, the benefits outweigh any risks.

Taking combined HRT (estrogen and a synthetic progestogen), may be associated with a small risk of developing breast cancer. However, some studies show this risk is reduced or not present if micronized progesterone is used. The risk of breast cancer with any type of HRT is low; for comparison, the risk of breast cancer is much greater in a woman who is obese or who drinks a moderate amount of alcohol. If you take estrogen-only HRT, you have a lower risk of breast cancer than someone not taking HRT.

If you have a history of blood clots, liver disease or migraines, there is a small risk of clotting if taking the tablet form of estrogen, but taking it through the skin as a patch, gel or spray does not have the risks.

Side effects with HRT are uncommon but might include breast tenderness or bleeding. If they do occur, they usually happen within the first few months of taking HRT and then settle with time as your body adjusts to taking the hormones.

HRT is most effective to start when you are perimenopausal – this is before your official ‘menopause’ – which is 12 months after your last period. This means you don’t have to wait for your periods to stop before starting HRT. Your first step should be talking to a health professional about the options available to you. Don’t wait until symptoms become unmanageable before you seek advice. The most health benefits from taking HRT are in those who start taking HRT within 10 years of their menopause but usually you can start taking HRT at any age after your menopause too.

Remember

  • There are more benefits to your health if you start HRT early – don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse.
  • The menopause means living with a long-term hormone deficiency that, if left untreated, will increase your risk of osteoporosis and heart disease in the future.
  • There is no maximum length of time for which you can take HRT – you can take it forever.
  • HRT does not ‘delay’ your menopause. If you have menopausal symptoms after stopping HRT, this means you would still be having symptoms even if you had never taken HRT.
  • The benefits of HRT must be balanced against any risks. You must decide what is right for you, depending on your individual circumstances and in discussion with your healthcare professional.
Top view of group of happy women that is at a bachelorette party

A Personalized Approach to Hormone Health

We believe in a comprehensive, tailored approach to restoring balance and optimizing well-being. Our process includes:

  • In-Depth Consultation – A detailed health assessment, lifestyle review, and discussion of your symptoms and goals.
  • Comprehensive Lab Testing – Identifying hormonal imbalances to guide personalized treatment.
  • Customized Treatment Plan – Based on your lab results and symptoms, we recommend the best course of action, which may include HRT and lifestyle strategies to enhance your results.
  • Ongoing Support & Adjustments – We monitor your progress, making modifications as needed to ensure you feel your best.

You deserve to feel vibrant, strong, and balanced at every stage of life. Let’s create a plan to help you thrive.

Take the first step toward feeling like yourself again. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

Balance Your Hormones, Reclaim Your Vitality

Hormones impact every aspect of your well-being—from energy levels and mental clarity to mood and metabolism. When they’re out of balance, you may experience:

  • Persistent fatigue and low energy
  • Brain fog and trouble focusing
  • Mood swings and irritability
  • Unexplained weight gain, especially around the midsection
  • Low libido and sexual dysfunction
  • Decreased muscle mass and strength
  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Sleep disturbances

If these symptoms sound familiar, you don’t have to accept them as part of aging. Hormone imbalances can be safely and effectively managed through Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

Close up beautiful older woman thinking