Human Identical Hormones in Practice

When considering the use of human identical hormones (HIH) for menopausal women, several factors must be considered:

1. What are the patient’s expectations and desires for treatment? What is her understanding or personal definition of "natural" hormones?

2. Is she currently using herbs or other non-pharmaceutical agents to treat her symptoms? What are they?

3. What are the most bothersome symptoms and health concerns? Is the patient seeking relief from vasomotor symptoms or prevention of other menopause-related problems?

4. Some compounded products require twice a day dosing, while some patches only need to be changed once a week. How will her lifestyle influence her ability to continue with treatment?

5. What treatments are most consistent with the patient’s belief system?

6. What are her risk factors for other health problems (cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis)?