Epidemiological and Clinical Aspects of Hormonal Contraception and Menopausal Hormone Therapy in Women

Abstract

BackgroundThe main indication for therapy with female sex hormones in younger women is contraception, whereas women around and after menopause might use menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) to manage vasomotor symptoms. The use of hormonal contraception and MHT, both referred to as hormone therapy in this thesis, has changed over time and varies in different age groups and populations depending on indications, definitions of use, current knowledge, and clinical guidelines. The use of oestrogen may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism and therefore combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) are not recommended to women with obesity. Women with early or premature menopause are recommended hormone therapy at least until the normal age of menopause to avoid the increased morbidity and mortality caused by oestrogen deficiency.