YASMIN NAUMAN, ASIF ZIA AKHTER.

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), on the alleviation of menopausal symptoms. Design: Interventional Quasi-experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Single centre study of 150 patients conducted at Gynae unit I of Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi during 18 months period from 1st August 1998.

Subjects and Methods: Initially 200 menopausal patients (natural premature or surgical menopause) were selected but HRT was given up by 50 patients. Detailed history taken, complete physical examination done and patients were subjected to different investigations according to their need. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were checked. Individual evaluation regarding preparation and dosage of HRT done. HRT given as Estrogen alone, sequential or continuous combined preparation depending upon indication, presence of uterus and wishes of patients - A detailed explanation regarding menopause and HRT was given and regular follow-up advised.

Results: Our study revealed the commonest symptoms as hot flushes, palpitation, irritability and mood swing and HRT showed a remarkable response in the improvement of these symptoms by 88%, 84%, 74% an 67.21% respectively. The mean response rate with HRT therapy was 67.90% which was good enough in relieving the distressing menopausal symptoms.

Conclusion: Hormone replacement therapy should be offered to all patients of natural, surgical and premature menopause who do not have a contraindication, to relieve the current symptoms and to reduce the risk of future disease.

For Full text contact to:
Prof. Dr. Farah Mansuri
editor@annals-ashkmdc.org

Assistant Professor Obs/Gynae Unit II KMDC and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi *
Professor Obs/Gynae Hamdard University Hospital KMDC and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Karachi *