In the late 1990s, several large studies showed that the risks of using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) far outweighed the benefits for most women. The studies were stopped right away.

Since that time, more studies have been done and confirmed the findings. At the present time the FDA is telling doctors to use nonestrogen therapies to prevent and treat osteoporosis (brittle bones). Drugs like bisphosphonates, calcitonin, and parathyroid hormone can be used instead.

When women take HRT, they should use the lowest dose possible. They should take the hormone for the shortest amount of time. And finally, only women with a great risk of osteoporosis and fracture should think about taking HRT. Women should only take HRT when the risk of osteoporosis is much greater than the risk of the HRT.

Talk to your doctor about what to do. Many naturopaths and women's support groups have good ideas on preventing symptoms of menopause. Your local library may have several books on the subject of menopause with helpful suggestions.