Climacteric medicine: European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) 2004/2005 position statements

The main indication for HRT use in postmenopausal women remains the relief of menopausal symptoms. Treatment for up to five years does not add significantly to lifetime risk of breast cancer, but significantly decreases bone loss and risk of osteoporotic fractures. Some women may be susceptible to early thrombotic risk, but when appropriate HRT is given after individual clinical evaluation, the benefits will far outweigh any potential risks and the treatment should be recommended. Future research is needed to identify new indications for HRT and to diminish or abolish its potential risks.