Rethinking Menopausal Hormone Therapy: For Whom, What, When and How long? Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Menopause
Menopause
Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.
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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective treatments for women experiencing the symptoms of menopause, particularly vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. But its benefits go beyond just symptom management. HRT can also play a key role in improving vaginal health by alleviating dryness and discomfort, which are common complaints among women in menopause. Additionally, it helps prevent bone loss, significantly reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which are more common after menopause. Despite its many benefits, HRT is not one-size-fits-all; it’s essential to tailor treatment based on individual health profiles, taking into account the risks like breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease that come with prolonged use.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
The review explores the use of menopausal hormone therapy (HT) with a focus on its impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. It discusses the timing and formulation of HT, examining how these factors influence the safety and efficacy of HT in managing menopausal symptoms such as vasomotor symptoms (VMS). The study includes a thorough examination of evidence from key clinical trials, such as the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI), and provides updated guidelines for the use of HT in symptomatic postmenopausal women, particularly those with varying levels of cardiovascular risk.
Who was studied?
The review primarily focuses on postmenopausal women, particularly those experiencing VMS, which include symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. It also considers women with different levels of cardiovascular risk, including those with low CVD risk, those with established heart disease, and those with comorbid conditions such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. These women were included in clinical studies that assessed the effects of HT on cardiovascular health and menopausal symptoms.
Most important findings
The study found that HT is highly effective for managing menopausal symptoms, particularly VMS. However, its safety and efficacy are influenced by the timing of initiation and the method of administration. Starting HT early in menopause, particularly before the age of 60 or within 10 years of menopause, appears to have a protective effect on cardiovascular health, reducing risks compared to starting it later. Transdermal HT, which is delivered through the skin, is shown to be safer than oral HT in reducing the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and improving lipid profiles. The benefits of HT on cardiovascular risk are less evident for women who start HT more than 10 years after menopause, and they may face an increased risk of stroke.
Key implications
The findings suggest that HT can be a safe and effective treatment for menopausal symptoms when used in the right population. Early initiation of HT, particularly using transdermal formulations, is crucial for maximizing its benefits and minimizing risks. The review emphasizes the importance of individualized care for menopausal women, particularly those with existing cardiovascular risk factors, and advocates for shared decision-making between clinicians and patients to weigh the potential benefits and risks of HT.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective treatments for women experiencing the symptoms of menopause, particularly vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. But its benefits go beyond just symptom management. HRT can also play a key role in improving vaginal health by alleviating dryness and discomfort, which are common complaints among women in menopause. Additionally, it helps prevent bone loss, significantly reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which are more common after menopause. Despite its many benefits, HRT is not one-size-fits-all; it’s essential to tailor treatment based on individual health profiles, taking into account the risks like breast cancer, blood clots, and heart disease that come with prolonged use.
Menopause
Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.