IF YOUR HISTORY MAKES YOU HESITATE

Worried HRT won't suit your health history?

The NHS says your age, symptoms and risk factors all shape the picture. Here are questions to take along.

IF YOU'RE AT HIGHER RISK OF CLOTS

Clot risk can change the form

The NHS says higher clot risk usually points to patch, spray or gel over tablets
NICE (UK) says the same can apply with a BMI over 30
NICE also says a strong family history of clots may mean seeing a blood specialist first

IF BREAST CANCER IS IN THE PICTURE

Past or high risk: NICE says offer a specialist referral

The NHS says a past breast cancer usually means being advised against HRT
NICE says to offer information on all options, plus a referral to a menopause expert

IF YOU HAVE HEART HISTORY OR DIABETES

Other conditions get a closer look

NICE (UK): after coronary heart disease or stroke, a menopause expert should discuss HRT and offer it if appropriate
NICE notes that, as of November 2024, HRT for people with active or recent arterial clotting disease was off-label
NICE says HRT can be considered with type 2 diabetes after weighing other conditions and getting specialist advice if needed

IF HRT TURNS OUT NOT TO SUIT YOU

You still have options

NICE says to consider a menopause expert referral if HRT can't be used. It also lists menopause-specific CBT as an option for hot flashes and night sweats.

WHEN TO GET IT CHECKED

Worried about the risks? Talk to a doctor

The NHS says benefits and risks depend on your age, symptoms and risk factors. If you're thinking about HRT, or already take it, and worry about any risks, it says to speak to a GP (a doctor), who will help you decide.

Bring this to your appointment

Questions for your doctor

Does anything in my health history affect whether HRT suits me, or which type?
Should I see a menopause specialist before deciding?
If HRT isn't right for me, what else could help my symptoms?

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As slides

Worried HRT won't suit your health history?

Past or high risk: NICE says offer a specialist referral

Worried about the risks? Talk to a doctor

Sources

NHS: www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/benefits-and-risk
NICE (UK) NG23, Menopause: identification and management: www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23/chapter/Recommendations

General information, not medical advice.