What to Expect when Starting HRT: Benefits, Side Effects, and Those First Few Months

Starting Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can feel like a huge decision. Often, menopause symptoms can build up gradually. Symptoms such as hot flushes, poor sleep, low mood, and brain fog are often attributed to other causes, so it is not always obvious when (or if) you should start treatment. Not only this, but it can be hard to know what to expect when starting. While HRT is one of the most effective and well-researched treatment options, it’s often not spoken about enough.

So let’s get talking about it. About how HRT works, the positive changes that you can expect, and any side effects you might notice. Your body can take time to adjust to new medication, but we’ll have a look at exactly what to expect to give you that added peace of mind.

What is menopause and HRT?

Menopause is a natural (or sometimes induced) stage within a female’s reproductive cycle. It happens when the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and eventually (though this can be years later), periods stop completely.

Prior to menopause, and during perimenopause, which is the stage before menopause when hormones begin to shift, oestrogen plays a key role in bodily functions such as temperature regulation, mood and cognitive function, bone strength, vaginal and urinary health, skin elasticity, and more.

When oestrogen levels fall, symptoms can affect both physical and emotional health. This is where HRT comes in. HRT replaces the hormones in the body that are no longer being produced in sufficient amounts. Restoring balance and reducing symptoms.

As with all medications, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to HRT. The type of HRT that is best for you can depend on whether you have had a hysterectomy, whether you are still having periods, how well you react to certain doses, and which form is easiest and most appropriate for you to use.

HRT treatment is individual, and it’s normal for doses and forms to be adjusted over time.

The first few weeks on HRT

When you first start HRT, your body will need time to adjust to the change in hormone levels. This adjustment period is completely normal and should usually last only a few weeks. During this time, you may notice subtle improvements in menopause symptoms, along with some temporary side effects.

These effects can change from day to day while your body is settling into its new hormonal balance, but consistency is key. HRT doesn’t work overnight, and treatment is usually trialled for around three months before altering the dose or changing the type of HRT.

What are the positive effects of HRT?

HRT is designed to help people feel more like themselves again. Reducing symptoms caused by natural hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause.

Relief from hot flushes and night sweats – This improvement begins within the first few weeks and can help reduce sleep disturbances from night sweats, as well as any discomfort during the day that sudden hot flushes can cause.

Improved sleep quality – By reducing night sweats and helping to ease anxiety, HRT can improve mood and allow sleep to be less interrupted and more refreshing. Better sleep can then improve mood, concentration, and energy levels.

Improved mood – Hormones play an essential role in mood regulation. When they fluctuate or dip, this can contribute to low mood, irritability, and anxiety. Many people notice they feel more balanced, less overwhelmed, and better able to cope with stress once on HRT.

Increased energy and motivation – As sleep, mood, and physical comfort improve, energy levels often become more consistent. This can make it easier to maintain and healthy balance between work, exercise, and social life without constant physical and emotional fatigue.

Improved vaginal comfort – Lower oestrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, leading to irritation and discomfort. HRT helps to restore vaginal moisture and elasticity and can reduce discomfort during intimacy. Local oestrogen treatments, such as creams or vaginal tablets, can help to provide targeted relief.

Long-term health benefits

Alongside symptom relief, HRT can offer longer-term health benefits. These include protection against bone loss, reduced risk of osteoporosis and fractures, support for joint and muscle comfort, and potential benefits for hearth health over time.

What are common side effects when starting HRT?

Like most medications, HRT can cause side effects, particularly in those early days of treatment. These are usually mild and temporary, but it is helpful to be aware of them.

Common early side effects include:

• Breast tenderness or swelling
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Headaches
• Irregular or light bleeding
• Temperature mood changes

If side effects persist beyond a few months, the dosage, type of medication, or form of HRT can usually be adjusted.

If side effects become severe, worrying, or if you are not noticing any improvement to symptoms after a few months, then it is a good idea to check in with a healthcare professional. They can help find the treatment that fits your needs and restores the hormonal balance that you need.

The Bottom Line

Menopause is a natural stage in life, but struggling through symptoms is not something you simply have to accept. HRT offers effective and flexible treatment options that have already helped millions of people feel more like themselves again. Getting back to their healthier, confident, and comfortable lives.

If you’re considering HRT, discover more from The Family Chemist’s HRT treatments range and feel positive about improved well-being. Not just now, but far into the future too.