What is short-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Short-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the use of an estrogen-progestin combination to treat symptoms related to menopause. It is used at the lowest dose possible and for the shortest time possible to reduce or eliminate hot flashes, sleep problems, mood problems, bone loss and skin and vaginal changes. A woman who still has her uterus should take progestin if she is taking estrogen. This prevents the estrogen from causing endometrial (uterine) cancer. Progestin prevents the increased risk of this cancer by regulating the buildup and breakdown of the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. Women know this buildup and breakdown as monthly menstrual bleeding. Experts have not firmly defined how long "short-term" HRT should be. While some recommend less than one year, most consider no more than four or five years to be reasonable, with regular checkups. Hormone replacement therapy has been linked to slightly higher risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, heart attack, stroke, blood clots and dementia. Research is ongoing to find out if low-dose, short-term HRT reduces the risks that are linked to HRT.

Short-term therapy involves taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for five years or less. Short-term therapy is usually given to reduce menopausal symptoms. Short-term treatment also can help prevent osteoporosis, slow down age-related memory loss, and lower cholesterol.

Short-term HRT does not raise the risk of breast or ovarian cancer. Women who have not undergone a hysterectomy should take estrogen in combination with progesterone to avoid an increased risk of uterine cancer. Women who have had a hysterectomy do not have to take progesterone.

Short-term HRT may slightly increase the risk of gallstones and blood clots in the legs or lungs, a condition known as a venous thromboembolism. For most women, however, this increased risk is very small. Consult with your primary healthcare practitioner to discuss the benefits and risks of this type of treatment.

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