Benefits of HRT
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence have suggested the following:
- There is a reduced risk of fragility fractures during treatment which stops after cessation of medication. If HRT is taken for longer, this benefit may continue for longer
- There is limited evidence on the effect of HRT on muscle mass and strength although it is thought there may be some improvement
- For women who have premature menopause, offering hormonal treatment (with HRT or a combined oral contraceptive) and continuing until the age of the natural menopause offers a reduction in risk of chronic disease such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Specifically, HRT has a beneficial effect on blood pressure compared to a combined oral contraceptive but both modes of treatment offer bone protection