What are the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy for menopause?

(Rebecca Joy/ Healthline) –– After menopause, when your periods have stopped, your body doesn’t produce as much estrogen. For many women, the absence of estrogen brings on a host of unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and painful sex to name a few.

Menopause is a natural phase, and symptoms eventually subside for most women. But for some, symptoms are severe enough that they need hormonal intervention.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective ways to relieve severe menopause symptoms. HRT may even offer protection against heart disease and bone loss from osteoporosis.

But that doesn’t mean HRT is completely risk-free. Whether it’s right for you depends on your age, when you entered menopause, and other risk factors.

Here’s a look at the risks and rewards to help you decide whether HRT is a good option for you. (…)