What are the symptoms of menopause and what is HRT?

Menopause Symptoms

• Common symptoms of menopause include hot flushes and night sweats, sleep disturbances, low mood and anxiety, and cognitive symptoms ¹.
• Genitourinary symptoms, such as those affecting vaginal health, can also occur ².

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment option for menopausal symptoms ¹.
• For women with a uterus, combined HRT (oestrogen plus progestogen) is typically offered, while women who have had a hysterectomy may be offered oestrogen-only HRT ².
• HRT is most effective for a range of menopausal symptoms, and benefits may outweigh risks for many women under 60 years of age or within 10 years of menopause onset ¹.
• Treatment should be individualised based on the woman's clinical presentation, risks, benefits, treatment goals, and personal preference ¹.
• The lowest effective dosage should be used, and treatment duration should be discussed at the outset and reviewed at each appointment ².
• For vasomotor symptoms, transdermal oestradiol plus progestogen is considered the most effective treatment for women with a uterus ¹.
• For genitourinary symptoms, low-dose vaginal oestrogen is recommended as a first-line treatment ².
• Lifestyle measures such as regular exercise, weight loss (if applicable), wearing lighter clothing, and reducing stress can also help manage symptoms ¹.