Estrogen or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is sometimes used to lessen the symptoms of menopause. Because your body is slowly decreasing the levels of certain hormones during menopause, replacing those hormones can offer relief of symptoms.

Women undergoing HRT are given estrogen or estrogen with progestin as supplements. HRT can reduce bone loss, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and hot flashes. The benefits of HRT must be balanced against the risks, which include blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and gall bladder disease. For women who choose to use HRT upon the advice of their health-care provider, it is recommended that the smallest effective dose be used to minimize risks.