The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women entering menopause has long been a controversial issue. Various studies have been undertaken over the years in an attempt to evaluate the risks and benefits of this type of drug intervention. There has been a long-standing belief among medical professionals that the use of HRT would reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, in addition to providing relief for common menopausal symptoms.
      A stunning announcement by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has turned the medical community on its heels and has gotten the attention of every woman who has ever used, or who is considering the use of HRT. The NIH abruptly ended the nation’s biggest study of the estrogen-progestin combination type of HRT, saying that long-term use significantly increases women’s risk of breast cancer, heart disease, and strokes, and that these risks far outweigh the few benefits. The results of this study have been published in the July 17, 2002 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The news release of the recent NIH announcement has been reproduced here for our visitors.  [ more info ]
      Meanwhile, as a result of this announcement, even more women are now looking to natural alternatives to deal with the symptoms and other concerns related to menopause. In addition to recommended dietary changes, many women are considering the use of dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens - plant-derived estrogens - as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. Here is some additional information on dietary supplements of interest to women.