There isn’t a set length of time for HRT use. Some women use it for a few years until their menopausal symptoms have eased, whereas other women take it for longer periods because they feel that it gives them more energy (and to reduce their risk of osteoporosis).
It’s a personal decision, and it really can vary a lot from one woman to the next. It’s very important that you discuss it with our doctor, and see what their recommendations are for you, in light of your medical background and any side effects you may experience, or health conditions you may have. They will normally review how you’re getting on with HRT on an annual basis, but you should contact them at any point if you’ve got any questions.
Your risk of developing breast cancer may increase slightly when you use HRT for more extended periods. For example, for every 1,000 women from the age of menopause up to 69 years who are not using continuous combined HRT treatment, 13 may develop breast cancer. [popover id=ref6] For every 1,000 women in this same bracket who are using continuous combined HRT treatment for five years or more, an additional 10 women may develop breast cancer. So, a 1% increase. [popover id=ref7]
There’s a slightly greater risk of developing a blood clot with HRT tablets than there is compared to not using HRT treatment, but it is only slight (tablets may produce an extra nine cases of venous thromboembolism for every 10,000 women each year). [popover id=ref8]
There’s also a slightly greater chance you may have a stroke if you use HRT. From the age of menopause up to 69 years of age, four women in every 1,000 may have a stroke. In this same bracket, for women who use HRT for five years, there may be one extra case of stroke. [popover id=ref9]