What are the different types of HRT and what do they do?

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. “In addition, to reversing troublesome symptoms of menopause and improving quality of life, HRT also helps with the prevention of osteoporosis and cardiovascular events such as heart attacks.“Modern HRT consists of body-identical hormones, delivered through the skin and orally, and are very effective for treating a collection of symptoms and also providing long-term health benefits for women’s hearts and bones.” There are two types of HRT. “Oestrogen-only HRT is used if you have had surgery to remove your womb or use an IUS,” explains Dr Elise Dallas, women’s health GP and menopause specialist at London General Practice.“And combined HRT is used if you still have your womb.”Is HRT suitable for everyone?“HRT isn’t suitable for everyone,” highlights Dr Samantha Wild, women’s health clinical lead at Bupa Health Clinics. “Your GP will review your medical history to determine what is right for you, and if necessary, you may need to see a menopause specialist.” Here are the different types of HRT treatments…Tablets Tablets are one of the most common forms of HRT and both oestrogen-only and combined HRT are available as tablets, according to the NHS website. Pessaries “These are applied inside the vagina to help with symptoms such as vaginal dryness,” explains Wild.