Benefits and risks of hormone/estrogen replacement.

Menopause is a natural event, yet almost 25% of postmenopausal women are taking some form of hormone replacement (HRT). Women can expect to live one-third of their lives postmenopausal. There is a plethora of conflicting literature about estrogen, and women faced with the decision whether or not to take HRT are confused. This article outlines the risks and benefits of hormone/estrogen replacement based on a comprehensive review of the current literature so that health care providers can give their patients the best information for making informed decisions about HRT.