Hormone Replacement Therapy: What It Is, Who It Helps, and What You Need to Know

When your body stops making enough of certain hormones, things like energy, mood, sleep, and even sex drive can go off track. Hormone replacement therapy, a medical treatment that adds back hormones your body no longer produces in sufficient amounts. Also known as HRT, it’s used to ease symptoms from menopause, low testosterone, thyroid disorders, and other hormonal imbalances. This isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about protecting your bones, heart, and brain as you age.

For women going through menopause, estrogen, a key female sex hormone that drops sharply after menopause is often replaced to reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Some women also get progesterone, a hormone that balances estrogen and protects the uterus if they still have a uterus, to lower the risk of endometrial cancer. Men with low testosterone, the primary male hormone that declines with age may use HRT to regain muscle mass, improve mood, and boost libido. And for people with underactive thyroids, thyroid hormone, a synthetic version of the hormone your thyroid normally makes is taken daily to keep metabolism running right.

HRT isn’t one-size-fits-all. Dosing, delivery methods (pills, patches, gels, injections), and duration all depend on your age, health history, and symptoms. Some people feel better in weeks. Others need months to find the right mix. It’s not without risks—blood clots, breast cancer, and stroke are possible, especially with long-term use or in older patients. That’s why it’s never a DIY decision. Doctors check your blood, review your family history, and weigh benefits against risks before starting you on any hormone.

The posts below cover real-world cases and concerns tied to hormone-related treatments. You’ll find guides on how certain medications affect blood sugar, fertility, and immune response—all of which can be influenced by hormonal changes. Whether you’re managing menopause, low testosterone, or a thyroid condition, these articles give you the facts you need to talk smarter with your doctor and make informed choices about your health.