ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Menopausal hormone therapy (HT)

Top of the page

Menopausal hormone therapy (HT)

Hormone therapy (HT) is medicine used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It may contain one or both of the hormones estrogen and progestin.

Like all medicines, HT has some risks. But for many people, the benefits of taking HT outweigh the risks. Talk with your doctor about whether HT is right for you.

Hormone therapy includes:

  • Low-dose vaginal estrogen (cream, tablet, or ring). These forms are mainly used to treat vaginal dryness and other tissue changes in and around the vagina.
  • Estrogen and progestin therapy. This form of HT sends hormones throughout the body. It can come in the form of a pill, patch, vaginal ring, gel, spray, or cream. Estrogen and progestin therapy is most often used to treat menopause symptoms in people who have a uterus.
  • Estrogen therapy (ET). This is the use of estrogen without progestin. This form of HT also sends hormones throughout the body. Most people who use ET have had their uterus removed (hysterectomy).

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Your Partner in Health.

People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve. 


Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222