HRT can’t be described as safe or unsafe. Its effects vary depending on the types of hormone used, the form in which it is given (pills, or patches and gels), and the timing of first use (around menopause, or later). The safety of HRT can also depend on other things, such as body mass index. Factor in a woman’s family and personal medical history, and her individual experience of menopausal symptoms, and it is clear that one size cannot fit all. Whether or not the benefits of this treatment outweigh the risks will continue to be a personal decision.