A new combination of conjugated equine oestrogens and medroxyprogesterone for treatment of climacteric complaints

Abstract

Thirty-four post-menopausal women with climacteric complaints were given conjugated equine oestrogens (1.25 mg/day) for 21 days followed by 2 days without hormones and then 5 mg medroxyprogesteroneacetate daily for 5 days. The present trial was designed to study effects on vasomotor symptoms, bleeding patterns and endometrial histopathology. Vasomotor disturbances were completely relieved. No recurrence of symptoms was recorded in the oestrogen-free week. Withdrawal bleedings were regular and slight, which was a positive experience for those women who had previously been treated with other oestrogen-progestogen regimens. In most patients inactive or weak secretory endometrial epithelium was found during treatment. Two women developed differing degrees of hyperplasia after 2.5, and 3 yr, respectively. This fact emphasizes the necessity of adding progestogens for at least 10 days each month even if the oestrogens and progestogens are administered separately. It may also be wise to perform an endometrial biopsy when sex hormones are administered on a long-term basis.