The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

I am menopausal and considering having hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What do I need to know?

HRT seemed to go from being something everyone should take, to something everyone should avoid because of the breast cancer risk, as well as a slightly increased risk of venous thrombosis.

But used in the right way for the right people, and for as short a time as possible, it can be a great help to women with severe menopause symptoms. It can curb flushes and night sweats.

Other symptoms such as tiredness, difficulty sleeping, problems with mood, palpitations and aches and pains should also improve, but try to manage these without HRT, at least initially.

HRT works by replacing the oestrogen made by the ovaries, which are no longer working after the menopause. It can be given in tablet form, via a patch on the skin or through an implant. Apart from those who have had a hysterectomy, women also need to take progesterone.

This can be incorporated in the HRT tablet or patch, but can also be given through a coil.

Studies suggest that there is no increase in breast cancer risk with up to a year of HRT use. The increase in risks of using HRT for up to five years appear to be relatively low, but I would advise any woman to try to stop taking it beyond five years.

Women who have or have had breast cancer or those who suffer from migraine with aura, should not take HRT.

Do I still need to socially distance after having the Covid-19 vaccine?

All we know at present is that if you have had the vaccine you are less likely to become seriously ill from the virus or to be admitted to hospital.

We do not know that you are less likely to get or spread the virus. For that reason you have to keep following the social distancing guidelines and cover your nose and mouth when you are near other people.

Particularly with the delay of the second dose – which is thought to give longer lasting protection – you still have to be careful.