Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is very effective for menopausal women, especially those who are newly menopausal. HRT can significantly reduce the risk of osteoporosis and relieve menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. However, early studies raised concerns about the safety of HRT, leading many women to stop using it. As more research has been conducted, experts have found that for most women, the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks. For younger, healthy women who start HRT within 10 years of menopause, it is generally safe and beneficial. For older women or those with heart disease, high blood pressure, and breast cancer risks, HRT should be used cautiously and under a doctor's guidance.