Hormone Replacement Therapy

Types and Methods of Taking HRT

Types:

  • Estrogen-only HRT
  • Combined estrogen and progestogen HRT

Methods of delivery:

  1. Tablets – Simple to take, but may carry more clot risk
  2.  Patches – Lower clot risk, steady release
  3. Gels or sprays – Applied to skin, flexible dose options
  4. Vaginal creams, rings, tablets – For local symptom relief only

Choosing the best method depends on:

  • Specific symptoms
  • Medical history
  • Personal preference
Comparison of HRT Methods
Method Type of Hormones How Taken Benefits Possible Risks
Tablets Estrogen-only or Combined Swallowed daily Easy to use, inexpensive Slightly higher clot risk, possible stomach upset
Patches Estrogen-only or Combined Worn on skin, replaced every few days Steady hormone release, lower clot risk Skin irritation at patch site
Gels/Sprays Estrogen-only Applied to skin daily Flexible dosing, lower clot risk May transfer to others through skin contact
Vaginal Creams Estrogen-only (low dose) Applied locally Targets vaginal symptoms only, minimal body absorption Does not treat other menopause symptoms
Hrt