@Big_Mama is exactly right, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment for common symptoms of menopause and even decreases the risks of osteoporosis, endometrial and colorectal cancers and other diseases. For most healthy women, the risks associated with HRT are small compared to the benefits! That said, some women who are already at higher risk of certain cancers and thrombosis should not take HRT due to increased risk of breast cancer and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A doctor is able to make a full assessment and give advice about appropriate treatment for each individual case.