MHT in Australia: Separating Fact from Fiction

Few medical treatments have been as misunderstood as Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT, previously called HRT). A single study in 2002 sent shockwaves through medicine and media alike — and millions of women stopped treatment overnight. Two decades later, the evidence has been substantially re-evaluated.

Myth: MHT causes breast cancer. Reality: The relationship between MHT and breast cancer risk is far more nuanced than headlines suggest. For most women starting MHT within 10 years of menopause onset, the increase in risk is small — comparable to the risk associated with regular alcohol consumption or obesity. Body-identical oestrogen and micronised progesterone carry a lower risk profile than older synthetic formulations. The Australasian Menopause Society supports MHT use for symptomatic women after individualised risk assessment.

Myth: MHT is dangerous for your heart. Reality: When started within 10 years of menopause (the 'window of opportunity'), MHT may actually be cardioprotective. The timing hypothesis is now well-supported by evidence. Starting later carries different considerations.

Myth: You should tough it out. Reality: There is no clinical benefit to suffering through severe menopause symptoms. MHT is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes, night sweats) and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vaginal dryness, urinary symptoms). Quality of life matters — and it's a legitimate medical outcome.

What Australian women should know: MHT is available through your GP or a menopause specialist. It doesn't require a hospital visit. Body-identical formulations are available on the PBS. And telehealth consultations make it accessible no matter where you live in Australia.