Hormone Replacement Therapy Over 60: A Balanced Guide

Deciding on your health path after menopause can feel like you’ve been left with an outdated map. You’ve likely heard that the window for starting hormone therapy has closed, leaving you to simply manage any lingering symptoms on your own. Let’s clear that up: the conversation around hormone replacement therapy for women over 60 has changed significantly. It’s no longer a simple “yes” or “no” based on your age. Instead, it’s a personalized decision that weighs your unique health profile against the potential for real quality-of-life improvements. This guide is here to give you the current, straightforward information you need—from understanding the real risks and benefits to exploring non-hormonal alternatives—so you can have a confident, informed conversation with your provider and choose the path that’s right for you.

Key Takeaways

• Personalize Your Approach: The decision to use HRT after 60 isn’t one-size-fits-all. A safe and effective plan requires a thorough look at your unique symptoms, health profile, and family history in collaboration with your healthcare provider.
• Weigh the Pros and Cons for You: While HRT can relieve persistent symptoms and protect bone health, it’s crucial to weigh these benefits against potential risks that change with age. Your personal health data, not general advice, should guide this risk-benefit analysis.
• Explore All Your Options: If traditional HRT isn’t the right fit, there are many other paths to relief. Consider different delivery methods like low-dose patches, or explore effective non-hormonal strategies like specific prescriptions, lifestyle changes, and stress management.

HRT After 60: What You Need to Know

Navigating the world of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can feel like a lot, especially when you’re past the initial menopause transition. You’ve probably heard conflicting things over the years, and it’s tough to know what’s current and what applies to you now. Let’s clear up the confusion. Think of this as your straightforward guide to understanding what HRT is, how it works, and the different forms it can take. This is about giving you the foundational knowledge you need to start a productive conversation with your healthcare provider.

What Exactly is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Let’s start with the basics. Hormone Replacement Therapy, also called menopause hormone therapy (MHT), is a treatment that replenishes the hormones your body stops producing after menopause, primarily estrogen. As your natural hormone levels decline, you can experience a range of symptoms, and HRT is designed to ease them by restoring a sense of hormonal balance. It’s not about turning back the clock, but about managing specific health concerns and improving your quality of life. The goal is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to achieve your treatment goals, making it a personalized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

The Different Types of HRT

HRT isn’t a single treatment; it comes in a few different forms tailored to your specific needs and health profile. The two main categories are systemic therapy and low-dose vaginal products. Systemic hormone therapy comes in higher doses and circulates throughout the bloodstream, making it effective for symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Low-dose vaginal options, like creams or rings, work locally to address vaginal dryness and discomfort without affecting the rest of your body as much. If you still have your uterus, your doctor will also prescribe progestogen along with estrogen to protect the uterine lining. This is a critical safety measure to prevent the risk of endometrial cancer.

How Does HRT Work in Your Body?

By reintroducing estrogen, HRT directly addresses many of the most common menopause symptoms. It can effectively reduce or eliminate hot flashes, calm night sweats, and relieve vaginal dryness that can make intimacy uncomfortable. Beyond symptom relief, one of the most significant benefits of HRT is its ability to prevent bone loss, which reduces your risk of osteoporosis and fractures as you age. The key is working with a provider to weigh the pros and cons for your unique situation. For many healthy women, the benefits of starting HRT before 60 or within 10 years of menopause often outweigh the potential risks, but the calculation can change as you get older.

Can HRT Help with Lingering Menopause Symptoms?

Just because you’re past the initial transition of menopause doesn’t mean all the symptoms have packed their bags and left. For many women, things like hot flashes, poor sleep, and mood swings can linger well into their 60s and beyond, impacting their quality of life. If you’re nodding along, you might be wondering if hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is still an option. The short answer is yes, it can be a powerful tool for managing these persistent symptoms.

HRT works by reintroducing the hormones—primarily estrogen—that your body has stopped producing. Think of it as topping off a tank that’s running low. This can bring your body back into a more comfortable equilibrium, addressing many of the issues that stem from hormonal imbalance. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, understanding what HRT can do is the first step in deciding if it’s the right path for you. A conversation about your hormonal balance with a healthcare provider can help clarify your personal needs and options.

Soothe Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

If you’re still throwing off the covers at night or experiencing sudden waves of heat during the day, you know how disruptive hot flashes and night sweats can be. These vasomotor symptoms are caused by your brain’s thermostat (the hypothalamus) getting faulty signals due to low estrogen. HRT is highly effective at managing these symptoms. By replenishing estrogen, it helps stabilize your body’s temperature control center, significantly reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. For many women, this relief alone makes exploring menopause hormone therapy worthwhile.

Improve Vaginal Health and Comfort

Vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort during intimacy are common complaints for women post-menopause. This condition, known as vaginal atrophy, happens when low estrogen levels cause the vaginal tissues to become thinner, less elastic, and drier. It’s not just about sex; it can cause urinary issues and general discomfort, too. HRT, whether taken systemically or applied locally as a cream, can restore moisture and tissue health. This can make a world of difference in your daily comfort and help you maintain a healthy, enjoyable sex life long after menopause.

Protect Your Bones from Osteoporosis

One of the most critical long-term health concerns for women over 60 is bone loss. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining bone density, so when its levels drop, your risk of developing osteoporosis increases. This condition makes your bones brittle and more prone to fractures. HRT is proven to help protect your bones by slowing down bone loss. For women who have a higher risk of fractures or have already experienced bone loss, it can be an important part of a long-term strategy to keep your skeleton strong and resilient for years to come.

Balance Your Mood and Mental Wellness

Have you felt more irritable, anxious, or down than usual? Hormonal fluctuations can have a major impact on your brain chemistry and, consequently, your mood. The drop in estrogen can disrupt neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate your emotions. For some women, HRT can help stabilize these fluctuations, leading to a more balanced mood and a reduction in feelings of anxiety or depression. If you feel like your emotional well-being is on a rollercoaster, discussing your options with a provider through a Mind Balance consultation could provide some clarity.

Restore Sleep and Energy

It’s a frustrating cycle: night sweats wake you up, your sleep is fragmented, and you spend the next day feeling exhausted. Poor sleep doesn’t just make you tired; it affects your mood, concentration, and overall health. By getting night sweats under control, HRT can directly lead to more restorative, uninterrupted sleep. When you’re finally sleeping soundly through the night, you’ll naturally have more energy to do the things you love during the day. It’s not just about managing one symptom—it’s about restoring the foundation for your daily vitality.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of HRT After 60

Deciding on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) after 60 feels a lot more complex than it might have a decade earlier. The conversation shifts from simply managing menopause symptoms to carefully balancing quality-of-life improvements against potential health risks that can increase with age. This isn’t a straightforward “yes” or “no” answer; it’s a personal calculation that depends entirely on your unique health profile, family history, and what you want for your well-being.

Think of it as a collaborative process between you and your healthcare provider. The goal is to look at the complete picture—from how you’re feeling day-to-day to your long-term health goals. Are persistent symptoms like hot flashes or poor sleep still impacting your life? Are you concerned about bone density? On the other hand, what does your cardiovascular health look like? By exploring the benefits and the risks, you can make an informed choice that feels right for you. A thorough women’s health consultation can help you map out this decision with a professional who understands the nuances of HRT in this stage of life.

The Upside: Key Benefits for Your Health

Even after 60, the benefits of HRT can be significant. For many women, lingering menopause symptoms don’t just disappear. HRT can be incredibly effective at alleviating persistent hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, which can dramatically improve your daily comfort and overall quality of life. Beyond symptom relief, one of the most important benefits is bone protection. Osteoporosis is a serious concern as we age, and HRT is proven to help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Some studies even suggest that certain types of HRT may offer protective effects for your heart and brain, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease and dementia for some individuals.

The Downside: Understanding the Potential Risks

It’s just as important to have a clear-eyed view of the potential risks. The primary concerns with starting or continuing HRT after 60 are related to cardiovascular health and cancer. The risk of developing blood clots and stroke naturally increases with age, and HRT can add to that risk, especially if you have other factors like high blood pressure. Additionally, long-term use of combined HRT (which includes both estrogen and progestin) has been linked to a small but notable increase in breast cancer risk. These risks aren’t the same for everyone; they depend on the type and dose of hormones, how long you take them, and your personal health history.

What Does the Latest Research Say?

The medical world’s understanding of HRT is constantly evolving. For years, the advice was to use the lowest dose for the shortest time possible, with many women stopping therapy in their 50s. However, newer research is challenging that idea. A recent study highlighted by The Menopause Society suggests that individualized hormone therapy can be a safe and effective option for women well into their 60s, 70s, and even 80s. The study found that women who continued HRT later in life did not have an increased risk of serious events like heart attacks, strokes, or uterine cancer, offering reassurance that for many, there may be no mandatory age limit for treatment.

Your Heart Health on HRT

Your heart is a key part of the HRT conversation after 60. The “timing hypothesis” suggests that when you start HRT matters. Beginning therapy at age 60 or older, or more than 10 years after your last period, may increase your risk of heart-related problems. This is why a thorough evaluation of your cardiovascular health is non-negotiable before starting. Your doctor will consider your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and any family history of heart disease. The type of HRT also plays a role, as using estrogen combined with a progestogen can have a different cardiovascular risk profile than using estrogen alone.

Breaking Down the Cancer Risk

Let’s talk directly about the cancer risk. The main concern is the link between long-term use of combined HRT (estrogen plus progestin) and a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. Studies have shown this combination can increase the risk by about 10% to 19%. While that number sounds alarming, it’s important to put it in perspective. For most women, the absolute increase in risk is very small. This risk also appears to decrease after you stop taking the hormones. This is precisely why a personalized approach is so critical. A provider can help you weigh this statistical risk against your personal risk factors, like family history and genetics, to see what it actually means for you.

Finding Your Fit: HRT Options and Methods

If you’ve decided to explore HRT, the next step is figuring out what that actually looks like for you. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all prescription; it’s a partnership between you and your doctor to find the perfect fit. The goal is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to manage your symptoms while minimizing risks. From the type of hormone to the way you take it, you have options. Working with a provider who specializes in hormonal balance can help you make sense of these choices and create a plan that feels right.

Pills, Patches, or Creams: What Are Your Options?

Hormone therapy isn’t just a single pill anymore. It comes in several forms, each with its own set of considerations. You can choose from oral pills, skin patches, gels, creams, sprays, and even vaginal rings. Each method delivers hormones, usually estrogen, to replace what your body has stopped producing, helping to alleviate many menopause symptoms. The best delivery system for you depends on your health, lifestyle, and what you’re most comfortable with. For example, patches and gels are absorbed through the skin, while vaginal creams target localized symptoms. This is a key part of the conversation you’ll have when creating your personalized treatment plan.

Getting the Dosage Right

Once you’ve settled on a method, the next piece of the puzzle is the dosage. For women starting HRT after 60, the general rule of thumb is to “start low and go slow.” Your doctor will likely recommend the lowest possible dose that still effectively manages your symptoms. This approach helps your body adjust and reduces the likelihood of side effects. Finding the right dose isn’t a one-time decision. It requires ongoing communication with your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups, which are easy to manage with women’s telehealth visits, are essential to monitor how you’re feeling and make any necessary adjustments.

How Long Should You Take HRT?

One of the most common questions women have is, “How long will I be on this?” The simple answer is: there’s no universal timeline. The decision to continue or stop HRT is personal and should be re-evaluated with your doctor each year. The guiding principle is to continue therapy only as long as the benefits—like relief from hot flashes or bone protection—outweigh the potential risks for your individual situation. As you get older, this risk-benefit ratio can shift. An annual review ensures your treatment plan remains aligned with your health goals.

Is a Low-Dose Alternative Right for You?

If you’re concerned about the risks associated with standard HRT, a low-dose option might be a great fit. Research shows that using lower doses of hormones can still provide significant symptom relief while minimizing some of the long-term risks. This is especially true for certain delivery methods. For instance, using a low dose of estrogen and progestin that’s absorbed through the skin (like a patch) or administered vaginally may reduce the increased breast cancer risk associated with some combination therapies. This presents a tangible, safer alternative for women who want the benefits of HRT with greater peace of mind.

Monitor and Adjust Your Treatment

Your HRT journey is dynamic, not static. The initial plan you create with your doctor is just a starting point. The key to long-term success and safety is consistent monitoring and a willingness to make adjustments along the way. This is where having a strong relationship with your healthcare provider becomes so important. It’s crucial to discuss both the benefits and risks of your treatment on an ongoing basis. Regular follow-ups allow you to report how you’re feeling and decide if your current plan is still working for you. This collaborative process ensures your HRT continues to support your overall wellness goals.

How to Decide if HRT is Right for You

Making the call on whether to start or continue HRT after 60 isn’t about finding a simple “yes” or “no” answer. It’s about you. Your body, your symptoms, your history, and your quality of life are all central to the conversation. Think of it less as a test you have to pass and more as a personal wellness strategy you design with a trusted expert. The choice to use HRT should be completely individualized, because what works for one woman might not be the right fit for another.

The goal is to feel confident and informed. This means looking at your health from all angles—from your current symptoms to your family’s health patterns. It also means finding a healthcare provider who listens and treats you as a partner in your own care. With the convenience of women’s telehealth, having these important, in-depth conversations is more accessible than ever. Let’s walk through the key steps to help you determine if HRT is the right path for you.

Evaluate Your Personal Health

First things first: let’s talk about you right now. How are you feeling? Are lingering menopause symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or vaginal dryness still impacting your daily life? The primary reason to consider HRT is to relieve symptoms that are getting in the way of you living fully. Your overall health profile is the foundation of this decision. A provider will consider your cardiovascular health, bone density, and any other existing medical conditions. The entire process is a careful balancing act, weighing the potential for symptom relief against any risks based on your unique health. A hormonal balance consultation can help you and your doctor get a clear picture of your symptoms and create a targeted plan.

Consider Your Family History

Your family’s health story can offer important clues for your own. A family history of certain conditions, like breast cancer, ovarian cancer, heart disease, stroke, or blood clots, is a critical factor in the HRT discussion. This doesn’t automatically rule out HRT, but it does mean the conversation with your doctor needs to be more nuanced. Before your appointment, try to gather some of this information. Talk to relatives if you can. Knowing your genetic predispositions helps your doctor give you the most personalized advice possible. It allows you both to look at the potential risks with open eyes and make a choice that feels safe and right for you.

Get the Essential Health Screenings

Before starting any new treatment, it’s important to establish a clear baseline of your health. Your doctor will likely recommend a few essential screenings to make sure HRT is a safe option for you. This typically includes a thorough physical, a pelvic exam, a mammogram, and a blood pressure check. They may also order blood tests to look at your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These tests aren’t just a one-time checkpoint; they provide a snapshot of your health that allows you and your doctor to monitor for any potential side effects and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed over time.

Partner with Your Healthcare Provider

You should never feel like you’re making this decision alone. Finding a healthcare provider you trust is arguably the most important step in this process. Your doctor is your partner, there to help you understand the pros and cons as they apply specifically to you. Come to your appointment prepared with a list of your symptoms, concerns, and questions. A great doctor will take the time to explain your options, from the type of HRT to the dosage, and help you make a shared, informed decision. This collaborative approach ensures your treatment plan aligns with your health goals and comfort level, empowering you to take control of your wellness journey.

Know the Signs to Start or Stop Treatment

So, when is the right time to start? The simplest answer is when your symptoms are bothering you. If hot flashes, night sweats, or other menopausal issues are disrupting your life, it’s time to talk to a doctor about your options. On the flip side, it’s just as important to know when to re-evaluate. HRT isn’t necessarily a lifelong commitment. You and your doctor should regularly check in to assess if the treatment is still serving you. If new health concerns arise, you experience side effects, or you simply feel you no longer need it, it might be time to adjust your dose or stop treatment altogether.

What if HRT Isn’t for You? Exploring the Alternatives

Hormone replacement therapy can be a game-changer for many women, but it’s not the only path forward. Maybe your personal health history makes HRT a no-go, or perhaps you simply prefer a non-hormonal approach. Whatever your reason, it’s a valid one. The good news is you have plenty of effective options for managing symptoms and feeling your best.

Think of this as building your personalized wellness toolkit. Instead of relying on one solution, you can combine different strategies that work for your body and lifestyle. From prescription medications that don’t involve hormones to simple shifts in your daily routine, there are many ways to find relief. Exploring these alternatives is about taking control and finding a plan that makes you feel confident and cared for. A great first step is to discuss your full range of options with a provider who specializes in women’s telehealth and can help you weigh each choice.

Other Prescription Medications

If you’re looking for a medical option without the hormones, you’re in luck. Certain non-hormonal prescription drugs have been shown to be quite effective. For instance, low-dose antidepressants like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. Studies show these medications can decrease hot flashes by a noticeable amount for many women.

These medications work by affecting brain chemicals that help regulate body temperature and mood. They can be a solid choice if you’re dealing with both hot flashes and mood swings. Of course, they aren’t for everyone and come with their own set of considerations. A quick Express Visit with a doctor can help you determine if this is a suitable route for you.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

The world of natural remedies is vast, and many women find relief here. Plant-based supplements containing phytoestrogens—compounds that mimic estrogen in the body—are a popular choice. You’ve likely heard of black cohosh, red clover, and soy, which are some of the most studied alternative therapies for menopausal symptoms. Some women swear by them for easing hot flashes and night sweats.

However, it’s important to approach supplements with informed caution. “Natural” doesn’t automatically mean safe, and their effectiveness can vary widely from person to person. The supplement industry isn’t as regulated as pharmaceuticals, so quality can be inconsistent. Always talk to your healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine to ensure it won’t interact with other medications or health conditions.

Powerful Lifestyle Changes

Sometimes the most effective strategies are the simplest. Before jumping to medications or supplements, consider making a few lifestyle adjustments. Experts often suggest trying these nonhormonal treatments first, as they can make a huge difference. Start by becoming a detective of your own triggers. Does a glass of red wine or a spicy meal bring on a hot flash? Keep a small journal to track patterns.

Simple changes like dressing in light, breathable layers allow you to adjust your comfort level throughout the day. At night, keep your bedroom cool and use layered bedding. These practical, everyday habits empower you to manage symptoms proactively. They might not eliminate every symptom, but they can certainly reduce their impact on your daily life.

The Role of Diet and Exercise

What you eat and how you move your body are cornerstones of your well-being, especially after 60. A balanced diet rich in whole foods can help stabilize your energy and mood. Some women find that incorporating foods with plant estrogens, like flaxseeds and chickpeas, helps ease symptoms. Regular physical activity is another non-negotiable. It not only helps protect your bones and maintain a healthy weight but is also a fantastic tool for improving sleep and mood.

For vaginal dryness and discomfort, you don’t have to turn to hormones. Over-the-counter vaginal lubricants and moisturizers are proven to be highly effective for relieving these symptoms. A comprehensive weight loss and wellness plan that integrates both diet and exercise can provide a structured way to make these positive changes stick.

Stress Management Techniques

Never underestimate the power of a calm mind. High stress levels can send your cortisol soaring, which can make menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleeplessness feel much worse. Integrating stress management techniques into your routine can provide profound relief. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises help soothe your nervous system and restore a sense of balance.

Research shows that mind-body therapies like hypnosis and acupuncture may also relieve hot flashes and improve sleep quality. Finding what works for you is key. Whether it’s a quiet 10-minute meditation in the morning or a weekly yoga class, prioritizing your mental peace is a powerful form of self-care. If you need support, our Mind Balance program can help you find effective strategies.

Build Your Personalized Wellness Plan

Deciding on a path forward for your health after 60 is deeply personal. It’s not just about choosing a single treatment; it’s about creating a comprehensive plan that aligns with your body, your history, and your goals for the future. Think of it as building your own wellness blueprint. This plan should be flexible, supportive, and uniquely yours, combining medical guidance with lifestyle choices that help you feel your best. The goal is to create a strategy that you feel confident in, one that empowers you to take charge of your health for years to come.

Define Your Treatment Approach

There is no universal “right answer” when it comes to managing your health, especially concerning hormone therapy. The decision to start, continue, or stop HRT is one you should make based on your unique situation. Your personal health profile, family history, and the specific symptoms you’re experiencing are all critical pieces of the puzzle. A treatment that works wonders for a friend might not be the right fit for you. This is why a personalized approach is so important. By working with a provider, you can explore all your options and define a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs and brings you closer to your wellness goals.

Schedule Regular Health Monitoring

Once you and your provider decide on a path, the conversation doesn’t end there. Think of your wellness plan as a living document, one that needs regular check-ins to stay effective. Consistent monitoring is essential for tracking your progress, watching for any potential side effects, and making adjustments as your body’s needs change over time. These regular appointments are your opportunity to discuss how you’re feeling and ensure your treatment continues to be both safe and beneficial. With convenient women’s telehealth services, staying on top of your health and connected to your doctor is easier than ever, allowing for seamless care from the comfort of your home.

Create Your Support System

Navigating your health journey is much easier when you have a strong support system in place. This starts with finding a healthcare provider you trust—someone who listens to your concerns and collaborates with you on decisions. According to The Menopause Society, this partnership is key to making informed choices about long-term care. Beyond your doctor, lean on friends, family, or support groups who understand what you’re going through. Having people to talk to openly can make a world of difference for your emotional well-being and help you feel less alone. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Set Your Long-Term Health Goals

Take a moment to think about what you want your health to look like in the future. Are you focused on maintaining bone density, keeping your heart strong, or simply having the energy to enjoy your life to the fullest? Your long-term goals should guide your healthcare decisions. For example, research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that for many healthy women, the benefits of starting HRT before 60 or within 10 years of menopause may outweigh the risks. By clarifying your priorities, you and your provider can create a proactive strategy that not only manages current symptoms but also supports your vision for a healthy, vibrant future.

Integrate Wellness into Your Lifestyle

While medical treatments can be incredibly effective, they are just one part of a holistic wellness strategy. Powerful lifestyle habits can work alongside any treatment plan to support your overall health. Things like a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and effective stress management can have a profound impact on how you feel day-to-day. In fact, for women who can’t or choose not to take HRT, these non-hormonal options can be the primary way to manage symptoms. By integrating these practices into your routine, you create a strong foundation for health that supports your body and mind from every angle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it too late for me to start HRT if I’m already over 60? Not necessarily. While starting HRT more than 10 years after menopause or after age 60 requires a more careful conversation, it’s not an automatic “no.” The focus shifts to a very thorough evaluation of your personal health, especially your heart health. The decision is less about a strict age cutoff and more about a careful, personalized risk-benefit analysis you conduct with your doctor.

What are the main risks of HRT that I should be most concerned about after 60? The two primary concerns that get discussed most are cardiovascular health and cancer. The risk of blood clots and stroke naturally increases with age, and some forms of HRT can add to that. Additionally, long-term use of combined HRT (estrogen with progestin) is linked to a small but real increase in breast cancer risk. These risks are highly individual, which is why a deep dive into your personal and family health history with your provider is non-negotiable.

I’ve been on HRT for years. Do I need to stop now that I’m in my 60s? There is no universal stop date for HRT. The old thinking that everyone should stop at a certain age is being replaced by a more personalized approach. The key is to have a dedicated conversation with your doctor every year to re-evaluate. You’ll discuss whether the benefits you’re getting, like symptom relief or bone protection, still outweigh the potential risks for your current health status.

If I decide against HRT, what is the most effective non-hormonal option for hot flashes? Effectiveness really varies from person to person, but there are a couple of strong contenders. From a medical standpoint, certain low-dose antidepressants have been proven to significantly reduce hot flashes for many women. On the lifestyle front, a combination of practical changes—like dressing in layers, identifying your personal triggers, and practicing stress management—can make a huge difference in your daily comfort.

How can I best prepare for a conversation with my doctor about HRT? The best way to prepare is to come with information. For a week or two before your visit, keep a simple log of your symptoms: what are they, how often do they occur, and how much do they impact your day? Also, gather what you know about your family’s health history, particularly regarding heart disease, stroke, or breast cancer. Walking in with these details helps your doctor move beyond general advice and create a plan that is truly tailored to you.