Am I missing out not taking HRT?

[pingpongding]

I'm nearly post menopausal. Not taking anything. Have some mild flushes and my sleep isn't great anymore plus few joint aches. I'm wondering though if I'm missing out by not taking HRT?

Friends swear by it and how improved their lives are plus the other health benefits.

I'm also concerned the worst is yet to come (waves to atrophy).

So, am I missing out?

I've never taken it as I've never had much in the way of symptoms, a couple of joint aches but nothing unmanageable

@JinglingSpringbells

I wonder where you're getting your info from that bone density won't improve for older women using HRT?

I'm not saying HRT isn't beneficial with regards to retaining bone density. I am saying HRT helps prevent bone loss. But I'm not sure if it can rebuild bone that has already been lost.

I don't take it.

I have no symptoms (other than periods stopped, hurrah!).
I don't need it.
I feel fine.

I'm 52 and not on HRT for the reason that I am not troubled by symptoms. However, I've always lifted weights, exercised throughout my whole life, watched my weight by following a Mediterranean style diet, limited alcohol, all which I am sure has helped to some degree.

That's not to say that I am against HRT and I really believe that for some it's a life saver.

I honetly see no reason to take it if you're not feeling the impact of peri menopause. There do seem to be some potential upsides in reduced risks for later diseases, but I don't think we're at the point yet where the medical community is saying that HRT is an essential for this and hsould be taken as a precaution no matter what.

I take it and it has genuinely made my life better. It's not a global panacea but it certainly has improved my quality of life significantly, not least because I actually sleep now.

I do wish that there was better information or that people BELIEVED the information that is provided. I keep seeing that the view is that the breast cancer risk is not a concern any more as long as the dosage and delivery mechanism is appropriate and yet I know two women who are still refusing to take HRT because of this breast cancer concern. I think have convinced one to talk to her doctor about it at least but not sure. I hope so because I know she is really suffering.

No idea I don't take it as my I asked my doctor do I only need it if I have issues and was told no so I just get through it best I can, if I couldn't cope I would disuss it again

@HucklefinBerry In my case, it has, very much so. Reading the research papers, it appears that yes, it does.

@JinglingSpringbells
Oh that is good news. I'm really happy that this is the case

Bone density can actually improve on HRT. I developed mild osteopenia which didn't improve after 2 years of vitamin D/ calcium tablets. Started on HRT and bone density was back in the normal range within 2 years.