The menopause and hormone replacement therapy: an overview

The menopause is a time of change for many women. This article examines the effects of the menopause as well as the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The benefits of HRT are many and varied, but there are also associated risks and side-effects. It may be difficult for women to make a decision to use HRT and therefore they should be given the opportunity to discuss the risks and benefits with an appropriate health professional. Nurses, by becoming better informed, may empower women to ask relevant questions and make informed choices about the various strategies available for promoting health following the menopause.