The type of HRT that you are prescribed depends on your individual situation. If you have a uterus (womb) then a combination of estrogen and progestogen HRT (combined HRT) would be recommended. Estrogen alone can cause abnormal thickening of the lining of your uterus, which can lead to bleeding. Adding progestogen will prevent this.
Progestogen may be given in the form of tablets, patches or a hormone containing coil.
If combined HRT is started before you have the menopause or within 12 months of your last period then you will be offered a ‘cyclical’ combined HRT, which should give you regular monthly withdrawal bleeds.
If you start combined HRT more than 12 months after your last period, you may be offered ‘continuous’ combined HRT (bleed free HRT). You may experience some vaginal bleeding in the first 3 months, but after this it should stop.
If you have had a hysterectomy, then you will be offered estrogen only HRT.
Women who notice a low sex drive after the menopause may be offered another hormone called testosterone. This is a hormone linked to sex drive in both men and women.