Menopause Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, September 2009.
Answers to questions about menopause
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- I am thinking about taking HRT. Does it increase my risk of cancer?
- How long do I take HRT for?
- I'm 35 and am getting hot flushes. Does this mean I am going through an early menopause?
I am thinking about taking HRT. Does it increase my risk of cancer?
The various types of HRT have different cancer risks associated with them. In general there is an increased risk of certain types of cancer - ovarian, womb and breast.
Explanation
There are two type of HRT: oestrogen-only HRT and combined HRT - which contains oestrogen and another hormone called progesterone.
There is a small increase in the risk of ovarian cancer if you take either form of HRT, but this disappears a few years after you stop taking it.
Oestrogen-only HRT can increase your risk of womb (endometrial) cancer but is only prescribed if you have had a hysterectomy (your womb has been removed). You won't be prescribed it otherwise. The combined form doesn't increase your risk of endometrial cancer.
Breast cancer risk has been shown to be slightly higher when taking either type of HRT over several years. Combined HRT is thought to increase your risk more than oestrogen-only HRT. The risk is higher the longer you take HRT. The risk decreases within five years after you stop HRT, to what it would have been without HRT.
If you have had breast cancer, you won't usually be prescribed HRT, but this does depend on the type of breast cancer you have had.
You will need to think about your symptoms and if you need to take HRT. Discuss this and your concerns about cancer risk with your GP. They will be able to explain how this risk applies to you.
Further information
- Women's Health Concern
www.womens-health-concern.org
Sources
- Hormone replacement therapy. Drug Safety Update (MHRA), September 2007. www.mhra.gov.uk
- Menopause. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. www.cks.nhs.uk, accessed 22 June 2009
- Joint Formulary Committee. British National Formulary. 57th ed. London: British Medical Association and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, 2009
How long do I take HRT for?
You can take it short-term for six months to about two years. Most women have treatment for one to two years, but you may need to take it for longer.
Explanation
The symptoms of menopause differ between women. There is also wide variation in the length of time and severity of your symptoms. Your doctor will recommend that you use HRT for as short a time and at as low a dose as possible. This is because it's linked to a small increase in the risk of female cancers, stroke, and blood clots that can be potentially life-threatening.
Symptoms may come back for a short time once you stop taking it but they should then go away. It might be best to stop your HRT in cold weather to help with any hot flushes.
If you are taking HRT, you should visit your GP every six to 12 months to discuss your symptoms and decide if you need to continue treatment.
Further information
- Women's Health Concern
www.womens-health-concern.org
Sources
- Menopause. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. www.cks.nhs.uk, accessed 22 June 2009
- Hormone replacement therapy. Drug Safety Update (MHRA), September 2007. www.mhra.gov.uk
- Simon C, Everitt H & Kendrick T. Oxford handbook of general practice. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005:732
I'm 35 and am getting hot flushes. Does this mean I am going through an early menopause?
You could be but discuss this with your GP. There are other conditions that cause flushing and your GP will arrange appropriate tests.
Explanation
If your GP confirms you are going through the menopause and you are under 45 you may be referred to a gynaecologist - a doctor who specialises in female reproductive health. You may be offered HRT treatments which will help ease hot flushes. Your GP or gynaecologist will advise you about your specific treatment. You can still get pregnant if you are going through the menopause so if you are using contraception, you should keep doing so for two years after your last period, if you are under the age of 50.
However, you may not be going through the menopause and your symptoms could be a different condition. Ask your GP for advice.
Further information
- Women's Health Concern
www.womens-health-concern.org
Sources
- Menopause. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. www.cks.nhs.uk, accessed 22 June 2009
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: September 2009
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