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The latest on Hormone Replacement Therapy

Should you or shouldn't you take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during or after menopause? The answer to that question varies among women.

HRT has known benefits. It can relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness and
soreness. It can also decrease the irritability and mood swings of early
menopause.  Plus, it's the strategy of choice for preventing and treating
osteoporosis.

HRT also has risks you need to consider. It increases your risk of
developing gallstones and blood clots in the veins of your legs.  And most
recent large studies suggest that prolonged use of HRT - 10 years or more -
increases your risk of developing breast cancer. However, because women who use HRT tend to live longer that those who don't - even with breast cancer - many doctors say that the risk alone shouldn't be the deciding factor against taking HRT.

Contrary to earlier reports. HRT may not reduce the risk of heart disease.

Don't try to make the decision about HRT alone. Talk to your doctor.

Together, you can consider your personal risk factors and weigh the benefits and risks as they apply to you.