Treatment for menopausal symptoms

Abstract

HRT is indicated to manage problems caused when the ovaries stop producing estrogen at the menopause. Cessation of menses occurs naturally when the ovarian follicles are depleted at about 51 years of age, or following surgical removal of the ovaries with or without hysterectomy. The resulting hypogonadal state may cause symptoms and detrimental changes in estrogen target tissues, including the brain, skeleton and skin and the cardiovascular and genitourinary systems. The concentration and function of hormone receptors varies in these organs and systems; also, differences in genetics and general constitution may affect androgen production and levels of circulating estrogen. Thus, there is variation between women in the development of menopausal symptoms, in the functional reaction of the target tissues to estrogen deficiency, and in the response to HRT.