Who can take sequential combined HRT
If you're still having periods (perimenopausal) or had your last period less than 1 year ago you can usually take sequential combined HRT.
Sequential combined HRT is not suitable if you've had a hysterectomy to remove your womb.
Who may not be able to take sequential combined HRT
Sequential combined HRT is not suitable for everyone. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor before taking it if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine containing oestrogen or progestogen, or anything contained in the patches or tablets
- have ever had breast cancer, are having tests for breast cancer, or are at high risk due to family history
- have a type of cancer that is sensitive to oestrogens, such as cancer of the womb lining (endometrium), if you're having tests for this, or if you're at high risk of getting it
- have vaginal bleeding with no known cause
- have ever had a blood clot in a vein (thrombosis), such as in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- have problems with your blood which may cause a blood clot
- have a rare inherited condition called porphyria
- have or have recently had a problem caused by blood clots blocking the arteries, such as a heart attack, stroke or angina
- have thickening of the lining of the womb (endometrial hyperplasia) that has not been treated, or fibroids or endometriosis
- have ever had a problem with your liver
- have high blood pressure
- have diabetes
- have an underactive thyroid
- have ever had migraines or severe headaches
- have lupus
- have epilepsy
- have asthma
- are living with obesity
- have dementia
If you get any of these conditions after you start taking sequential combined HRT, stop taking it and speak to your doctor.