Hormone Replacement Therapy in Singapore

Authored By: Dr. Jana Lim.
Last updated: 30 Oct 2024.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment used primarily to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, caused by the decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels. Additionally, HRT can help prevent osteoporosis by maintaining bone density.

HRT introduces synthetic hormones that replicate natural oestrogen and progesterone, counteracting their decline during menopause and reducing associated symptoms. Lower oestrogen level during menopause also accelerates bone loss, as oestrogen is crucial for slowing bone resorption – a process where bone is broken down, releasing minerals into the bloodstream. HRT helps maintain bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures as one ages.

HRT can enhance well-being and quality of life and offer long-term health benefits:

• Relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. For those experiencing premature menopause, it also protects against long-term risks of protracted oestrogen deficiency.
• Improved mood and energy levels for some individuals.
• Reduction in bone loss, which can prevent osteoporosis.

Different types of HRT include:

• Oestrogen-Only Therapy: An oestrogen-only regime typically prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy, it relieves menopausal symptoms and prevents osteoporosis.
• Combined HRT Therapy (Oestrogen-Progestogen): Prescribed for women with an intact uterus (who have not undergone a hysterectomy), this combination helps prevent the risk of endometrial cancer associated with HRT while relieving menopausal symptoms.
• Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: Uses hormones derived from natural sources that are chemically identical to those the body produces, offering a more personalised approach compared to synthetic hormones.
• Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT): Primarily used for men to treat hypogonadism and andropause, TRT may also be prescribed for postmenopausal women to address symptoms like low libido and fatigue when there’s a significant decline in testosterone levels.

Common side effects of HRT include:

• Breast tenderness
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Headaches
• Vaginal bleeding

HRT can increase the risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, with a slight increase in ischaemic stroke incidence in healthy postmenopausal women. Oestrogen-only therapy in women who have not had a hysterectomy significantly raises the risk of endometrial cancer. Prolonged use of combined HRT is linked to an increase in breast cancer risk. It is crucial for patients to discuss these risks with a doctor prior to treatment.

HRT can be administered through oral tablets, transdermal patches, gels, or vaginal creams. The choice of therapy, regimen, and administration method depends on individual needs, symptom severity, and personal health history, as determined in consultation with your doctor. Regular follow-ups are vital to monitor the therapy’s effectiveness and manage any potential risks or side effects.

Currently, ATA Medical provides Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) only for men but is working towards offering Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Our hormone testing and TRT prices are as follows:

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)