Clinical update on hormone replacement therapy.

There has been much change concerning the menopause in clinical practice, research and prescribing since the 1990s, with conflicting information and uncertainties. The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has declined and women have often stopped taking it with no discussion with healthcare professionals. The uncertainties have led to confusion for healthcare professionals and women alike, with some women being denied HRT when it would be appropriate for them to take it, and others taking alternative or complementary therapies when there is little or no information on their efficacy. This article aims to give an update on HRT, what it is, why women take it and alternatives to HRT, including lifestyle advice.