HormoneFit Learn

What is estrogen therapy?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nathan Roth, MDCM, FRCSC, FACOG · Updated 2026-07-26

What is estrogen therapy?

Estrogen therapy replaces declining estrogen to relieve menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Systemic estrogen (pill, patch, gel) treats whole-body symptoms; vaginal estrogen treats local dryness and discomfort with minimal systemic absorption. Women with a uterus typically also need progesterone with systemic estrogen. HormoneFit provides estrogen therapy assessment across Ontario.

  • Replaces estrogen lost in the menopause transition
  • Systemic forms: oral, transdermal patch, gel, or spray
  • Vaginal estrogen for dryness, pain with sex, urinary symptoms
  • Progesterone/progestogen added if the uterus is present
  • Prescribed after individualized risk–benefit review

Systemic vs vaginal estrogen

Systemic therapy reaches blood levels that treat vasomotor symptoms and can support bone health. Vaginal estrogen targets tissue in the vagina and lower urinary tract and is often preferred when those are the main problems. Many women use both approaches at different times.

Why progesterone matters

If you have a uterus, unopposed systemic estrogen can overstimulate the endometrium. A progestogen is added to protect the uterine lining. Regimen choice (continuous vs cyclic, oral vs intrauterine options in some cases) is individualized.

Getting started with HormoneFit

Ontario women can book a virtual visit to discuss whether estrogen therapy fits their history. Also see our HRT treatment page.

Related HormoneFit resources

References & guidelines

  1. NAMS hormone therapy guidance
  2. SOGC

This page is educational and does not replace personalized medical advice. HormoneFit physicians assess each patient individually. Women in Ontario can book a virtual consultation.

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