Considering this popularity, and in the same breath, the growing need to be more aware of its effects, we reached out to experts to understand more about the therapy, how it works, and whether it can also help manage other health issues like diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart diseases in women.

So, does it also help those with diabetes?

These hormones help in decreasing HOMA IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance), which helps in increasing insulin sensitivity. They have also been shown to improve carbohydrate metabolism in type 2 diabetes, said Dr Aafrin Shabbir, senior consultant- Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai.

Interestingly, according to a ChatGPT analysis, studies have suggested that estrogen-only therapy may have a beneficial effect on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in postmenopausal women. Some studies have found that estrogen supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, potentially by increasing insulin receptor sensitivity and glucose uptake in the muscle and liver.

Additionally, the impact of HT on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity may also depend on other factors, such as the woman’s overall health, medical history, and lifestyle factors. If you have diabetes and are considering HT, it’s important to discuss the potential effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity with your healthcare professional.

How about bone health and osteoporosis?

Experts opine that menopause significantly expediates bone loss due to fall in the levels of reproductive hormones, oestrogen and progesterone.

Hormone therapy influences the usage of calcium in the body which helps preserve bone mineral density, thereby, rendering it helpful in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis, said Dr Aafrin.

What is known about the link between hormone therapy and the risk of heart disease?

Scientists are still learning about how the therapy affects the heart and blood arteries, said Dr Shalini. “Many significant clinical studies have been conducted in an attempt to solve issues concerning hormone therapy and heart disease. Some studies found favourable results in women who began the therapy within 10 years of menopause, whereas others found detrimental effects in those who began the therapy beyond 10 years of menopause. Some research have raised greater concerns regarding its possible advantages. Based on the findings, the American Heart Association made a recommendation for the use of HT. They claim: Hormone treatment is not indicated for the primary goal of avoiding heart disease (particularly, heart attack or stroke),” Dr Shalini noted.

What are the risks associated with hormone therapy?

Hormone treatment, like any other drug, has adverse effects, said Dr Vaishali. The following are the most prevalent side effects:

*Monthly bleeding (if you have a uterus and use cycled progestin (oestrogen for 25 days of oestrogen each month, progesterone for the final 10 to 14 days of the month, and 3 to 6 days of no medication).
*Irregular spotting.
*Tenderness in the breasts.
*Mood changes.

Who should not opt for hormone replacement therapy?

Combination hormone treatment resulted in a rare absolute risk increase of fewer than one extra instance of breast cancer per 1,000 person-years of usage, Dr Shalini said. According to the expert, in women who had hysterectomies and were on estrogen-only treatment, there was a non-significant decrease in breast cancer. Systemic hormone treatment should not be used if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer,” added the expert.

Dr Shalini said that hormone therapy is typically not advised if you:

*Have or have had breast or endometrial cancer.
*Have irregular vaginal bleeding.
*Have experienced or are at high risk of having a blood clot.
*Have a history of stroke, or heart attack, or are predisposed to vascular illness.
*You are pregnant or believe that you are pregnant.
*Suffer from liver illness.