If the words “hormone replacement therapy” make you think of breast cancer warnings from years ago, you’re not alone. But HRT in 2025 is not what it was in the early 2000s. A lot has changed, including the safety of taking supplemental hormones.
What’s different?
- Years ago, women were often given a combination of equine estrogen (derived from horse urine) and a synthetic progestin. That specific combo, used in large studies like the Women’s Health Initiative, was linked to increased risks for breast cancer, blood clots, and stroke. Those studies made headlines and left many women afraid to even consider hormones. Today, most providers use much lower doses and more natural, “bioidentical” hormones. These hormones are designed to closely match the ones your body produces. For example, many doctors now prescribe estradiol, a plant-based form of estrogen, and micronized progesterone, which is considered safer than the older synthetic versions.
- There are also new ways to take these hormones. Instead of pills, many women now use patches, creams, or gels. These options bypass the liver and can reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke. That’s a big shift from how hormones were delivered in the past.
- Another key difference is timing. We now know that starting HRT earlier - within 10 years of menopause or before age 60 - can be safer and more effective. Women who wait longer to start may face more risks. But for many in that earlier window, the benefits can outweigh the risks.
- Doctors are also taking a more personalized approach. There is no one-size-fits-all plan. Decisions about hormone therapy now consider your age, symptoms, family history, and personal risk factors. It’s not just about easing hot flashes, either. HRT can also help with sleep, mood, brain fog, and bone health.
So if you crossed hormone therapy off your list years ago, it might be time to take another look. At Baton Rouge General, our providers stay up to date on the latest science. We can help you decide if HRT is a good option for you and guide you to a plan that’s safe, effective, and tailored to your body.
You’ve changed since the early 2000s. So has HRT. Let’s talk about what works for you now.