Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is an extremely common condition causing gradual thinning of bones that can lead to fractures in old age. Although we know that HRT prevents bone loss and fractures, the advice about using it has changed.

When all the risks and benefits of HRT are taken into account, it is no longer thought that HRT should be used as a first line treatment to prevent osteoporosis. It should only be used for prevention of osteoporosis when other treatments are not suitable. Young women with a premature menopause are generally still advised to take HRT up to the age of normal menopause to prevent osteoporosis. 

Women who have been taking HRT solely to prevent osteoporosis should discuss with their doctor the possibility of changing to a different drug to help their bones. Other measures to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis include regular exercise and a healthy diet with adequate calcium.

Heart disease and stroke
Older research studies suggested that HRT might help prevent heart disease and strokes. Recent large studies have not confirmed this and, in fact, some have shown that HRT may slightly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke in older women. Women taking HRT just for protection against heart disease and stroke should be advised to stop it.