MHT is Not One-Size-Fits-All: Why Individualized Care Matters

It's simple. Individualised Menopause care for Individuals.

At WA Menopause Clinic, we recognise that every woman’s menopause journey is unique, and so is the way her body responds to Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT).

The idea that one standard dose fits all is outdated.

The right MHT dose is different for every woman and depends on many factors, including:

✔ Severity of symptoms (hot flushes, mood swings, sleep issues, etc.)

✔ Metabolism & absorption (some women absorb oestrogen less effectively than others)

✔ Overall health & medical history

✔ Hormonal fluctuations (which change over time, requiring adjustments in treatment)

Why Some Women Need Different MHT Doses

Scientific studies show that up to 20% of women do not absorb oestradiol well through the skin (patches, gels, sprays) (5). This means some women need higher doses or different formulations to achieve symptom relief (6).

At WA Menopause Clinic, we follow a complete-body, holistic approach, ensuring every woman receives personalized, evidence-based menopause treatment. We start with the lowest effective dose and adjust based on how you feel, rather than relying solely on blood test results.

Research has demonstrated up to ten-fold variations in how women absorb oestradiol, even when using the same patch or gel (4). This explains why some women need higher doses for adequate symptom relief while others respond well to lower doses.

Is Higher-Dose MHT Safe?

Yes. While pharmaceutical companies provide standard dosage guidelines, higher doses are sometimes necessary for symptom relief and are safe when prescribed under medical supervision (7).

The British National Formulary (BNF) states that doses of oestradiol should be adjusted according to patient response (7). The British Menopause Society also supports individualized dosing and recommends annual evaluations of MHT benefits and risks (8).

Some women labeled as "poor absorbers" may require higher-than-standard doses or a different application method (such as switching from a gel to a patch) to achieve the necessary physiological levels of oestradiol (6).

The Benefits of Properly Dosed MHT

Beyond improving menopause symptoms, MHT provides long-term health benefits, including:

✅ Reducing osteoporosis risk – Stronger bones, lower fracture risk (4)

✅ Lowering heart disease risk – Better cholesterol levels & cardiovascular protection (9)

✅ Protecting brain health – Lower risk of dementia & cognitive decline (9)

✅ Improving mood & mental health – Reduced anxiety, depression & brain fog (9)

✅ Supporting metabolic health – Weight management & insulin sensitivity (9)

MHT is not just about symptom relief—it’s about long-term health protection.

Your Treatment Options at WA Menopause Clinic

We take a personalised, whole-body approach to menopause care, ensuring your treatment plan meets your needs.

What to Expect:

✔ Comprehensive assessment of symptoms & medical history

✔ Discussion of your goals & concerns

✔ A tailored treatment plan, including MHT or non-hormonal options

✔ Ongoing monitoring & adjustments to optimise results

📅 Book an appointment today to discuss your options with our experienced team of menopause specialists.

📍 In-clinic consultations (Kalamunda & East Fremantle)💻 Telehealth appointments available for women across Australia (Medicare rebates apply after an initial in-clinic visit only.)

👉 Take the first step—your health and well-being matter.

References

1. NICE Menopause Guidelines – www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng23

2. GMC Decision Making and Consent Guidelines – www.gmc-uk.org/ethical-guidance

3. NICE Shared Decision-Making Guidelines – www.nice.org.uk/shared-decision-making

4. Armston A, Wood P. Ann Clin Biochem. (2002);39(Pt 3):184-93. – DOI:10.1258/0004563021902107

5. Jarvinen A, Backstrom A, et al. Maturitas. (2001);38(2):189-96. – DOI:10.1016/S0378-5122(00)00222-X

6. BNF Estradiol Dosage Guidelines – bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/estradiol

7. British Menopause Society Recommendations on MHT – thebms.org.uk

8. MHRA Guidance on Off-Label Prescribing – www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update

9. Glynne S, Reisel D, et al. Menopause (2024). DOI:10.1097/GME.0000000000002459l-being matter.