Attitudes to hormone therapy among Norwegian women

Aims The aim of the study was to investigate women�s attitudes towards hormone treatment (HT), their judgment of various sources of information and their knowledge of indications for HT. Methods We posted questionnaires to 1000 Norwegian women between 45 and 60 years of age, randomly selected from the National Register. We received answers from 386 women, 80% of whom stating that they were married or cohabitant, and 88% had completed high school. Altogether 28% of those who answered told that they currently were using HT, 22% were past users, 24% were considering to start, whereas 26% refused ever to use HT. One half of current and past users had obtained the prescriptions from a gynaecologist; the other half got it from their general practitioner. Results Median age at start of HT was 47 years. Women (58%) stated that the decision to use or avoid HT was made totally by themselves. Concerning benefits of using HT, the women thought HT useful for treatment of hot flushes, prevention of osteoporosis, wellbeing, improved mood and sex life. The women were also asked about the rating they would give to the various sources of information. Highest ratings were given to their gynecologist and general practitioner. Also reading about HT and the opinion of other health personnel obtained high ratings. Conclusions The indications for HT given by the women correspond well with the prevailing guidelines. Information of a negative effect of HT on cardiovascular diseases seems not to have fully reached the respondents. Surprisingly many women begin to use HT several years before the menopause.