MHT (Menopausal Hormone Therapy) – 50+ Years

1. I understand the questions above and have answered honestly. I understand that any inaccurate or false information could potentially be dangerous to my health and safety.
2. The medication that is prescribed is for my personal use only. I understand the side effects and effectiveness of the treatments.
3. I agree to the Terms & Conditions of this platform.
4. I am 18 years or older.
5. I am currently living in South Africa.
6. I will have an in-person medical consultation at least once a year for comprehensive care and physical examination.
7. I acknowledge that a doctor will communicate with me via WhatsApp within 24 hours.

Consent: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)

• Using menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a personal decision with guidance from a doctor. It depends on how much your symptoms are affecting you, your age, how long it’s been since menopause, and your individual medical history.
• Treatment should be reviewed regularly, and the lowest effective dose used for the shortest appropriate duration.
• Always read the medication leaflet for full instructions and possible side effects

Purpose of Treatment:
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) is used to relieve symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause, including hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbance, mood changes, and to help prevent bone loss (osteoporosis) where appropriate.

How to use:
MHT may be used as tablets, patches, gels, sprays, vaginal preparations, or other forms as prescribed by a doctor. The doctors on this platform only provide prescriptions for the transdermal patch due to lower risk of side effects.

• Use exactly as directed. Always read the medication leaflet before use.
• If a dose is missed, follow the instructions provided by the doctor or pharmacist. MHT is not a contraceptive and does not prevent pregnancy. MHT does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  
  

Expected Outcomes:

• Reduction in menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal discomfort, etc.
• Improved quality of life and sleep in many women.
• Possible protection against bone loss while on treatment. 
• Menopausal symptoms typically improve within weeks but may take several months for full effect.
• Menopausal symptoms may return if treatment is stopped.

Possible Side Effects (full list of side effects in medication leaflet):

Common:

• Breast tenderness
• Bloating or fluid retention
• Nausea
• Headache
• Irregular or unexpected vaginal bleeding
• Mood changes
  
  

Less Common:

• Raised blood pressure
• Skin changes (acne, pigmentation)
• Breast swelling
• Gallbladder problems
  
  

Rare but important (seek medical attention immediately):

• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) - symptoms include leg pain or swelling, chest pain, sudden shortness of breath
• Stroke or heart attack (risk is low but higher with certain risk factors such as smoking or existing cardiovascular disease)
• Breast cancer - long-term combined MHT may slightly increase risk
• Endometrial (uterine) cancer if estrogen is used without progesterone in women with a uterus
• Liver problems (jaundice, severe abdominal pain)
  
  

Alternatives:

• Non-hormonal treatments for menopausal symptoms
• Lifestyle measures (diet, exercise, sleep optimisation)
• Non-hormonal prescription medications
• Vaginal non-hormonal moisturisers or lubricants
• No treatment (symptom monitoring only)
  
  

Consent Statement:
I confirm that I have been informed about the purpose, benefits, risks, and alternatives to Menopausal Hormone Therapy. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and understand that I can stop treatment at any time after discussion with my healthcare provider.

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⛔ Please urgently visit your nearest emergency dept or in-person doctor if you are experiencing symptoms such as severe pain, chest pain, difficulty breathing, allergic reactions, dizziness, weakness, or other severe symptoms. Telemedicine services are not suitable for emergency medical conditions.