Estrogen and progestogen therapy in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Hormone therapy (HT) can be used to treat or prevent problems associated with the decline in estrogen production by the ovaries after menopause. Menopause occurs naturally when the ovarian follicles are depleted or following surgical removal of both ovaries. The resulting hypoestrogenic state may adversely affect estrogen target tissues, which include the brain, skeleton and skin, as well as the cardiovascular and genitourinary systems. The concentration and function of hormone receptors varies in these organs and systems; differences in genetics, body mass index, and body habitus also may influence the levels of endogenous estrogen and androgen in postmenopausal women. Significant variability among women exists with regard to their development of menopausal symptoms, the reaction of their target tissues to estrogen deficiency, and in their response to HT.