Evidence-Based Medicine, Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy, and the Women's Health Initiative

Abstract

The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) randomized controlled clinical trials changed prescription practice with regard to postmenopausal hormone therapy (PHT). The research has been the object of continuing controversy since results first appeared in 2002. I place the PHT literature within a broader cultural and historical context in order to make sense of how the research has been interpreted and applied to clinical practice. In this way, current issues with regard to PHT and, more broadly, understanding of menopause can be better understood.

Keywords:

• women's health
• menopause
• postmenopausal hormone therapy
• Women's Health Initiative
• scientific ethics
• HRT

Notes

goredforwomen.org/know-your-risk/menopause-heart-disease/menopause-and-heart-disease, accessed May 1, 2014.