So you’re thinking about taking hormone therapy (HT) for your hot flashes and wondering whether that’s a good idea. Are you aware that there’s a huge difference in the risks and benefits of HT, depending on your individual life situation and medical background? One of the biggest factors with regard to the risks and benefits of HT is your age and the amount of time since menopause. If you are younger than age 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the data show that the risks are significantly less than originally thought. In fact, some data suggest a decrease in heart disease, breast cancer, and all-cause mortality for women in that age range. In addition, for women who are younger than the average age of menopause (age 52) and whose ovaries have stopped functioning, the use of HT is not only suggested but is also important to help prevent the damaging consequences of significant bone loss (leading to osteoporosis), heart disease, and other effects of premature estrogen deficiency (provided there are no contraindications).

Unfortunately, data that made the news from studies in older women left many younger women scared out of using the most effective therapy for menopause symptoms and a therapy that, in some cases, may be necessary to prevent major complications of estrogen loss. If you are not sure what to do, see a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner to help navigate your individual and unique situation. One size does not fit all, and a menopause specialist can help you with your challenging questions.