HRT - where to start?

[LoraPiano]

Just that really, I am entering 40s and wondering if/how/when to start HRT. I see tidbits of info but not sure where to start my research about it.
Normally at what age and what stage should one do it? What are the pros and cons?
Thanks.

I think it’s best to wait until you have symptoms? Rather than go by age. GPS seem to be a lot better these days so it’s more available. Then you weigh up possible side effects with benefits. From what I understand dosage is important and quite individual so you need to play around with that. The menopause board on here is very helpful.

If you have symptoms are are over the age of 45 then the new guidelines are that HRT can be prescribed with no tests. (The tests aren’t particularly accurate as hormones fluctuate throughout the month?

For me I am waiting until my symptoms become worse - I’m definitely in peri but generally advised against HRT as have a history of breast cancer (though all the research I have done seems to imply I can take it safely).

Some people sail through the menopause and need nothing (though I do think there’s an argument even then for replacing some oestrogen for bone/heart/brain health). Others struggle massively.

You won’t necessarily need HRT, it’s a bit of a wait and see game. The first sign I had was waking up with a UTI one morning, something that at 53 I had never had before. I had hot flushes, a prolapse, and mood changes along with vaginal atrophy so I definitely needed HRT. I have a friend, in her seventies, that had no problems with the menopause at all and never needed HRT. If you’re in your forties it’s a bit soon to be thinking about the menopause IMO.

Download the "Balanced" app and track any symptoms that are new for you and also track your cycle (unless it's already controlled by hormones such as the pill). Something like 25% of women have no symptoms of the menopause can not tell you how much I hate these people , others manage without HRT and some need it. Just because you've hit 40 doesn't mean you need it.

Don't would be my advice.