Hormone therapy (HT) was formerly known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It gives prescribed hormones - estrogen and progesterone or its synthetic form (e.g., progestin). Estrogen given alone is estrogen therapy (ET). This was commonly called estrogen replacement therapy (ERT).

Hormones can be given in many forms: Oral pills; estrogen patches and vaginal creams; and the vaginal ring, Estring.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the overall risks of HT to women outweigh its benefits. The FDA recommends, though, that each woman consult her doctor about hormone therapy. Each woman should discuss non-estrogen treatments with her doctor, too.

Combined estrogen and progestin therapy has been found to increase the risks for:

There is no increased risk for uterine cancer if progesterone is given with estrogen. Estrogen without progesterone may increase the risk for uterine cancer.

Discuss the possible benefits, risks, and side effects with your doctor. The decision should be based on:

A major study concluded that the harmful effects of a specific combination of estrogen and progestin therapy are likely to exceed the chronic disease prevention benefits for most women. If you decide to use HT, use the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time needed.

When you take HT, consult your doctor about its continued use. You should also have regular medical checkups, as advised. Checkups should include a blood pressure reading, pelvic and breast exams, and a mammogram.