In brief
In brief
HRT is not one product and the decision is not identical for everyone. Use these prompts with a qualified prescriber who can consider your symptoms, whether you have a uterus, age, periods, contraception, medical and family history, current medicines and personal preferences.
- Which symptoms are we treating, and how will we judge whether this option is helping me?
- Do I need combined HRT or oestrogen-only HRT, and why?
- What are the relevant differences between tablets, patches, gel, spray and local vaginal treatment for me?
- What benefits, risks and side effects matter given my personal and family history?
- Could HRT interact with my medicines or affect another condition?
- What bleeding changes may be expected, and exactly when should I seek prompt assessment?
- When is the first review, what can be adjusted, and what alternatives are available if this does not suit me?
Sources
Where this guidance comes from
GlowUp checked this article against the sources below on 25 August 2026. This is source-checked editorial information, not a claim of independent medical review.
- Menopause: identification and management (NG23) National Institute for Health and Care Excellence · updated 15 April 2026 · accessed 25 August 2026
- Treatment for symptoms of the menopause Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists · updated 1 May 2026 · accessed 25 August 2026
- Shared decision making (NG197) National Institute for Health and Care Excellence · accessed 25 August 2026