To decide whether hormone therapy is a good option for a patient, I consider her age and her symptoms. I also check to see if she has a personal or family history of heart disease, stroke or cancer in her family since these things can make hormone therapy riskier. As far as timing, I try to start HT as soon as possible after a woman enters menopause. If a patient is a candidate for HT and is interested in learning more about it, I explain how hormones can be helpful, as well as the risks. I also go over the different forms (pill, cream, etc.) with her.