Hormone Replacement

Many doctors believe that estrogen should be taken to help prevent thinning of the bones, heart attacks, arthritis, hot flashes, bladder infections, and thinning of the wall of the vagina with associated discomfort. Progesterone is often added to estrogen if the uterus has not been removed, to help protect against cancer of the uterus. In a small percentage of women, the average dose of replacement hormones causes the breast glandular tissue to become more active, and cysts can develop. If these cysts become large or painful, they can interfere with an accurate physical examination of the breast and can also interfere with accurate interpretation of the mammogram. In this case the dose may need to be lowered a little.

Sometimes women who are smaller need less than the average amount of hormones. There are many different types of hormones and different ways to take it. You should let your gynecologist know if you are having any problems with the hormone replacement therapy that he or she has prescribed for you.

This page is intended as an educational resource only. It is not a substitute for professional care. Please see your physician if you have any concerns about your own health.

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