Beneficios y Riesgos de la Terapia de Reemplazo Hormonal en Mujeres Menopáusicas. Revisión Sistemática

Menopause constitutes the physiological transition that culminates in the permanent cessation of ovarian function and the alteration of hormonal patterns, which can trigger various adverse effects on women’s metabolic, bone, and cardiovascular health. In response to these effects, hormone replacement therapy represents an effective strategy to alleviate such symptoms. This study, with a qualitative approach and descriptive design, is based on a review of the currently available scientific literature on the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy. The results reveal that, when administered in the early stages of postmenopause, this therapy improves the lipid profile, reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, and provides protective effects on the skeletal and cardiovascular systems. However, its use is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, stroke, and certain types of cancer. The evidence supports an individualized evaluation for each patient, taking into account risk factors and the route of administration.