At Miror’s HRT Centre of Excellence, we understand that every Indian woman’s menopause journey is unique. The kinds of HRT you can choose from will depend on your health, your stage of menopause, and what feels right for you.
Our goal is to guide you compassionately toward the option
that balances safety, comfort, and lifestyle.
Hormones Involved – What Your Body Needs
Hormones Involved – What Your Body Needs
- Oestrogen: Helps with typical menopause changes — mood, sleep, hot flashes, skin, bone health.
- Progestogen: Important if you still have your womb, to protect the womb lining.
- Testosterone: Sometimes prescribed by a specialist if standard treatments don’t address issues like low energy or reduced libido.
If you’ve had a hysterectomy (your womb removed), you might only need oestrogen. If not, a combined HRT (oestrogen + progestogen) is often recommended, so that every part of your health is considered.
How You Can Use HRT – What Fits Best for You
| Form | What It Is | What’s Good About It | What to Know / Possible Downsides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tablets | Daily pill forms of oestrogen-only or combined HRT | Easy, familiar, works for many | Slightly increased risk of blood clots vs some other forms; daily habit needed |
| Skin Patches | Patches placed on skin that release hormone slowly | Gentle, lower risk of certain side effects; good if swallowing pills is hard | May peel off more easily in hot weather; skin irritation is possible and it needs careful application |
| Gel | Oestrogen gel smoothed on skin | Flexible, with fewer systemic side effects; good if you dislike patches or pills | Takes time to dry; skin contact issues; might need daily application |
| Spray | Oestrogen spray to arm/inner thigh | Quick, convenient alternative | Bathing/shower timing; may need to wait after using it |
| Intrauterine System (IUS / Mirena coil) | A small device placed in womb releasing progestogen | Long-lasting, low maintenance; also provides protection and fewer daily routines | Insertion procedure; some initial discomfort or spotting; needs specialist follow-ups |
| Vaginal Estrogen (cream, tablet, pessary, ring) | Low-dose estrogen applied locally | Very effective for vaginal symptoms (dryness, discomfort), minimal impact on rest of body | Helps those parts specifically; won’t reduce hot flashes or mood swings much |
| Testosterone (gel) | Specialist use, where needed | May help with libido, energy, mood when other HRT options aren’t enough | Not licensed specifically for menopause symptoms in all settings; possible side effects; specialist supervision needed |
| Tibolone | A tablet acting like combined HRT + mild testosterone-like effects | Once daily, may help mood, bones, vasomotor symptoms | Suitable after menopause (past one year without period); not always first-choice; certain risks under some conditions |
How Your HRT Routine Can Be Scheduled
Because Indian women often notice menopause earlier, or have different menstrual histories, the timing and pattern of your HRT matters. Here’s how routines work:
- Sequential / Cyclical HRT: For those still getting periods (perimenopause). You take oestrogen daily + progestogen for part of each month. You’ll have monthly (or periodic) bleeding.
- Continuous Combined HRT: Typically for those who haven’t had a period for 12 months or more (postmenopause). Oestrogen + progestogen every single day, no monthly bleed.
- And your personal health profile.
What Happens in Real Life in India
What Happens in Real Life in India
We know things like cost, cultural beliefs, climate,
and family roles affect what feels comfortable:
- Skin patches or creams may need extra care in humid or hot weather.
- Daily routines might clash with festivals, travel, or family responsibilities.
- Many Indian women prefer natural remedies or herbs initially; talking through options helps trust and clarity.
- Accessibility: specialists are fewer in smaller towns; so the form of HRT you choose might depend on what’s locally possible.
How Long to Take HRT
Most women find HRT helpful for 2-5 years, though in some cases, doctors recommend continued use depending on symptoms, risk factors, and bone health. At Miror, we reassess yearly (or sooner if needed) to make sure the balance of benefits vs risks remains right for you.
You Are Not Alone!
Choosing HRT is personal. You deserve care that honors your body, your values, and your life in India. At Miror’s HRT Centre of Excellence, we stand with you — to listen, share options, and support your journey with warmth, science, and compassion.
- The type of HRT you take (tablets vs patches/gel/spray),
- How long you take it,
- And your personal health profile.
