MHT and HRT both refer to hormone replacement therapy, but they differ in the types of hormones they replace.
MHT (Menopausal Hormone Therapy)
MHT specifically targets the hormonal changes women experience during menopause.
It primarily replaces estrogen and progesterone, which decline significantly during this time.
MHT aims to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
HRT is a broader term encompassing hormone replacement for various conditions beyond menopause.
It can include replacing testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones.
HRT is used for conditions like hypogonadism, transgender hormone therapy, and certain medical conditions affecting hormone production.
Key Differences:
- Target Audience: MHT is specifically for women experiencing menopause, while HRT is for a wider range of individuals.
- Hormones Replaced: MHT mainly focuses on estrogen and progesterone, while HRT may replace multiple hormones depending on the individual's needs.
- Purpose: MHT aims to alleviate menopausal symptoms, while HRT addresses a wider range of hormone-related conditions.
Examples:
- MHT: A woman experiencing hot flashes and night sweats might use MHT to replace declining estrogen and progesterone levels.
- HRT: A transgender woman might use HRT to replace testosterone with estrogen and progesterone to align with her gender identity.