Is it common to have sore breasts on hormone treatment (HRT)?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is usually the first-line treatment for perimenopause and menopause symptoms [1].
If you’ve recently started hormone treatment and want to know more about potential side effects – specifically sore breasts – this article sets out what you need to know.
Is it common to have side effects after starting hormone treatment (HRT)?
Hormone treatment is usually really well tolerated, and few people have side effects. The most common side effects that can occur in the first few weeks after starting hormone treatment are sometimes known as the ‘four Bs’:
Breasts: your breasts may become tender, painful and more sensitive. This can be due to the estradiol (the type of estrogen used in natural, bioidentical hormone treatment) or progesterone. This can last for several weeks but usually settles. Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra can also help if you’re experiencing this symptom.
Bleeding: this may come and go or last for a few weeks. If you are perimenopausal when you start hormone treatment , your bleeding pattern may alter initially and may take three to six months to settle into a regular pattern. If you are menopausal when you start hormone treatment (are no longer having periods), bleeding may occur, but this usually settles within three to six months.
Bloating: if your hormone treatment regimen includes progesterone or a synthetic progestogen, you may experience a bloating feeling, which usually improves.
Blues: You may find that your mood is affected, or you feel more emotional than usual. If these feelings persist then you may need to change your dose or type of hormone treatment.
For more information about what to expect when you start hormone treatment, read Dr Louise Newson's article here.
What should I do if I’m experiencing side effects?
Side effects usually settle over time. If side effects have not settled after three to four months, you should discuss them with Newson Clinic at your follow up appointment. You may find that changing brands, the delivery method (such as changing from tablets to patches) or type of hormone might help improve side effects.
If you experience any side effects that are not mentioned here, are unexpected, persistent, or if you do not respond to treatment as anticipated, it is important to consult your Newson Clinic clinician promptly. Individual responses to treatment can vary, so always follow the advice of your clinician tailored to your specific health needs.
