Joan Starker, M.S.W., Ph.D . New studies appear daily and the data are overwhelming and confusing. A woman needs to be armed with enough solid information to take charge of this critical decision. She needs to weigh the costs and benefits, consider her family history, values, and the severity of her menopausal symptoms.
Some women opt to take hormones on a short or long term basis.
Other women prefer complementary approaches, such as herbs. Some women decide not to take anything. HRT can help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, and vaginal dryness. It can also help protect bones and prevent osteoporosis. For a woman with an intact uterus, it is essential to take both estrogen and progesterone to prevent uterine cancer.