Published:
September 15, 2021
There is good news for older women age who are experiencing menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. You can safely get relief with hormone therapy (HT), according to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS).
Under some circumstances, low-dose HT, one of the most effective treatments for symptoms of menopause, may be appropriate for women over 65 who meet certain health criteria. These guidelines are a follow-up to previous NAMS recommendations against the use of HT in this age group.
Symptoms Can Last for a Decade
Statistics reveal that 42 percent of women ages 60 to 65 experience moderate to severe menopause symptoms that last an average of 7.4 years and for some women, more than a decade. These symptoms may contribute to poor sleep quality and effect a woman’s overall quality of life.
A large Australian study detailed how troublesome hot flashes remain prevalent in women 60 to 65 years of age.
When is HT Appropriate for Older Women?
After discussion with your doctor, you could be prescribed low doses of hormones if you:
- Are experiencing moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats.
- Understand the potential risks of HT, including increased risk of heart attack, stroke, breast cancer, and blood clots in the lungs and legs.
- Have a high risk of bone fractures and can’t withstand the side effects of other osteoporosis-fighting medications.
Addressing the Risks
According to Wulf Utian, MD, medical director for NAMS, “There may be safety concerns, and the Society does recommend that a woman use the lowest dose of hormones for the time appropriate to meet her needs. But we know that, under some circumstances, hormone therapy can be appropriate for women over age 65, such as those instances when the benefits of treating hot flashes outweigh the risks or when a woman has a high risk of bone fractures and can't take other bone drugs or can't withstand their side effects.”
Talk to Your Doctor
Your decision about whether or not to take hormone therapy at any age should be made in careful consultation with your doctor who will help you weigh the risks and benefits in relation to your individual health history and needs.