Does HRT stop periods?

Does HRT stop periods in perimenopause?

Your periods can carry on after you start HRT. If you still have a womb and you’re having periods, or your last natural period was less than a year ago, your prescriber will usually suggest sequential combined HRT. You take oestrogen every day and a progestogen for part of the month. You’ll usually bleed around the time you finish that course of progestogen. This is called a withdrawal bleed.

A hormonal coil such as Mirena can make periods lighter, and some people stop bleeding altogether. If it’s suitable for you, it can also provide the progestogen part of HRT.

Does continuous HRT stop periods?

Continuous combined HRT is usually offered once it’s been at least a year since your last natural period. You take oestrogen and a progestogen every day, so there’s no planned monthly bleed. You might still notice spotting or irregular bleeding in the first few months.

When should you see your GP?

Tell your GP or HRT prescriber about bleeding you weren’t expecting, including bleeding between planned bleeds or after sex. Get advice promptly if it’s heavy, lasts a long time, or happens outside the usual settling-in windows – the first six months of taking systemic HRT or the first three months after changing the dose or type. See the British Menopause Society guidance on bleeding while taking HRT.

Personal experiences with HRT and periods

Anecdotal evidence from women undergoing HRT offers personal insights into how this treatment could affect periods:

• Some women have reported a significant reduction in menstrual flow and discomfort. This change often leads to a less disruptive experience during their monthly cycle, allowing for a more comfortable day-to-day life.
• Other women have heavier or more erratic bleeding. This may need investigation so it is always advisable to discuss any unscheduled or heavy bleeding with a healthcare profession. Any additional spotting in between bleeds, or bleeding after sex should be discussed as may indicate a different cause.
• Additionally, some women have noted the complete cessation of their periods as a result of HRT. This absence of menstruation frequently contributes to an enhanced quality of life, as it can alleviate the physical and emotional distress often associated with monthly cycles.

These are personal accounts and it’s important to consult healthcare professionals to understand the full implications and suitability of HRT for your own circumstances.

This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.