I have been taking HRT for over 30 years now. I feel terrific as do those of my friends who are still on HRT. Compared to our peers who have chosen to go through the menopause we are all fitter, happier and full of life.
I am unconcerned about the initial menopause symptoms many women experience, indeed I still get hot flushes on occasion. Why I am on HRT is because I wish to avoid the long term effect of oestrogen deprivation.
Firstly osteoporosis, my mother suffered from this, I should say SUFFERED. There is no way I would consider allowing that to happen to me when medical advances mean you have the choice. Then there is vaginal atrophy, several of my peers are now suffering from this, together with stress incontinence up to full incontinence. Some have spoken about lack of libido, some have osteoarthritis, urinary tract problems, prolapse and very sadly a few seem to be heading down the road to Alzheimer’s.
HRT protects me from all of these and more. The protective effects e.g. on my heart are a huge bonus.
I realise this post is of no help to you OP but if just one woman approaching menopause benefits from reading this and does their own research leading to an improved quality of life in their later years then it has been worthwhile.