The leaflets are not up to date - they are simply standard information based on old research and are put into every type of hormone related preparation. The leaflet is also the same for local oestrogen and the risks simply DO NOT apply for Vagifem and oestrogen creams as so little is absorbed systemically. The drug companies are also covering their backs - just in case. When oestrogen drops, the arteries are more likely to fur up and become clogged, thereby increasing the chance of heart problems - this is one of the reasons why the cholesterol tends to go up past menopause.
The trials done with HRT and indeed most medication is often so flawed but any findings do have to be presented.
Once past 60, the risk of heart disease and cancer go up significantly whether on HRT or not, however, the trials so far have shown that if a woman in her 50s has 5 years of HRT it can extend life by a year or more. The protection for the bones is not disputed - HRT is one of the best preventives against osteoporosis.
Using HRT does not mean you should relax about ensuring you get enough calcium and vitamin D either, as these are vital nutrients throughout our lives. I believe HRt does restore some bone density - here is the quote I found “By restoring estrogen levels, HRT helps to slow the rate of bone loss, as well as relieving the symptoms of menopause. Studies have shown that HRT, even at low doses, can significantly increase bone density (1) and reduce the rate of fracture â€.
We must still consume enough calcium and supplement with Vitamin D and magnesium if you don't get enough sunshine.
Try to focus on the benefits and not the side effects and risks. If you drink a lot of alcohol, smoke, are overweight or lead a sedentary life, these are the BIGGEST risks for heart disease, stroke and cancer - so for example, being overweight is a bigger risk than being on HRT. Sadly, what is in our genes is not preventable. DG x