Hormone replacement therapy: women's decision-making process

Soc Work Health Care. 1999;28(3):95-111. doi: 10.1300/J010v28n03_06.

Abstract

Making an informed decision about whether to take hormone replacement therapy to offset short- and/or long-range effects of decreased estrogen due to menopause is particularly important because of the health-related risks and benefits associated with hormone replacements. A qualitative study was conducted in which a cohort of menopausal women were interviewed for the purpose of investigating their decision-making process regarding HRT. Findings illuminate the major factors contributing to the decision, the kinds and sources of information used in arriving at a decision, the decision-making process followed, and whether the decision was informed. Clinical and research implications of the findings are examined.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Decision Making*
  • Educational Status
  • Estrogen Replacement Therapy / adverse effects
  • Estrogen Replacement Therapy / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Income
  • Informed Consent
  • Menopause / drug effects
  • Menopause / physiology
  • Menopause / psychology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Women / psychology*