Women who have undergone a hysterectomy with both ovaries removed (oophorectomy) before menopause -- unless they were diagnosed with an estrogen dependent malignancy (cancer) should be on estrogen therapy.
Othen than the above group of women, the decision whether you should be taking estrogen depends on several factors:
Cardiovascular risk factors
Breast cancer risk factors
Osteoporosis risk factors
Desire to take estrogen
PROGESTERONE
Women with a uterus, those who have NOT undergone a hysterectomy (removal of the womb) who are on estrogen also need to be on progesterone. This is to protect against endometrial or uterine cancer.
TESTOSTERONE
Prior to menopause androgens, mostly testosterone, are produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. Androgens are important for maintaining bone density and sex drive. After menopause the ovaries stop making androgens, the adrenals continue, but the total amount produced by the body is greatly diminished. Androgens are available combined with estrogen, for replacement therapy.
Disclaimer - Menopause-Online is not intended as medical advice. Its intent is solely informational and educational. The information is not a substitute for talking with your health professional.
