estrogen replacement therapy

medicine

Also known as: estrogen therapy

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), is a treatment used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause. Menopause is the natural decline in ovarian hormone production, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes. ERT aims to restore estrogen and progesterone levels to help manage these symptoms.123

There are different types of ERT:
* Estrogen-only therapy: Prescribed for individuals who have had a hysterectomy.2
* Combined estrogen-progestin therapy: Used for individuals with an intact uterus to protect against endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.2

ERT can be administered systemically (affecting the whole body) or locally (vaginally). While effective for symptom relief and preventing bone loss, ERT is generally not recommended solely for chronic disease prevention due to potential risks like increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers. The lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration is typically recommended.23

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menopause
Estrogen therapy
The administration of estrogen is effective for treating many problems associated with menopause, including hot flashes, breast atrophy, vaginal dryness, and psychological symptoms. Estrogen is also effective for increasing libido. In addition, estrogen increases bone density, thereby decreasing the risk of fracture. Although estrogen…
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The administration of estrogen is effective for treating many problems associated with menopause, including hot flashes, breast atrophy, vaginal dryness, and psychological symptoms. Estrogen is also effective for increasing libido. In addition, estrogen increases bone density, thereby decreasing the risk of fracture. Although estrogen…
Read More

menopausal hormone therapy
Types and mechanisms of action
Estrogen therapy, which is typically combined with supplemental calcium, is effective in decreasing bone loss when begun during menopause, although it will provide some benefit if started later. This therapy is used only in people who have undergone hysterectomy and therefore no longer have a…
Read More
Estrogen therapy, which is typically combined with supplemental calcium, is effective in decreasing bone loss when begun during menopause, although it will provide some benefit if started later. This therapy is used only in people who have undergone hysterectomy and therefore no longer have a…
Read More

therapeutics
Osteoporosis
Estrogen replacement therapy, which should be combined with supplemental calcium, is most effective in decreasing bone resorption when begun during menopause, although it will provide some benefit if started later. In women who have an intact uterus, estrogen must be taken with progesterone to reduce…
Read More
Estrogen replacement therapy, which should be combined with supplemental calcium, is most effective in decreasing bone resorption when begun during menopause, although it will provide some benefit if started later. In women who have an intact uterus, estrogen must be taken with progesterone to reduce…
Read More

uterine cancer
Risk factors and symptoms
…a previous pregnancy, obesity, and estrogen replacement therapy following menopause.
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…a previous pregnancy, obesity, and estrogen replacement therapy following menopause.
Read More