At what age can you get hormone replacement therapy?

At what age can you get hormone replacement therapy?

There is no set age when someone can start hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The appropriate age to begin HRT depends on several factors, including:

• The reason for needing HRT


• Current hormone levels


• Age


• Overall health status

Some common reasons people pursue HRT and the usual age ranges are:

Puberty Induction in Transgender Youth

• Used to induce typical pubertal development consistent with gender identity


• Often initiated around ages 14-16 years, but may start earlier or later depending on individual factors

Menopausal Hormone Therapy

• Used to treat bothersome menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness


• Typically started in late perimenopause or after menopause (average age of menopause is 51 years)

Male Androgen Deficiency

• Used to treat symptoms of clinically low testosterone levels in males


• Can be initiated in adult males of any age, but treatment more commonly starts in middle age

The timing of HRT must balance both benefits and risks. Starting too early or too late may impact outcomes. Health providers consider many individual factors when advising if and when to start, including:

Medical History

• Any conditions or risk factors that may exclude or impact therapy


• Reproductive plans and fertility preservation options

Severity of Symptoms

• How problematic current symptoms are


• Potential benefits of relief with HRT

Current Hormone Levels

• Blood, salivary, or urine tests to confirm clinically low hormone levels


• Repeat testing may be needed because levels fluctuate

Bone Density Results

• Low bone density may favor earlier therapy


• HRT helps maintain bone strength in some cases

Family History

• Some risks may be higher with a family history of certain cancers or conditions

Personal Preferences and Goals

• Individual values, priorities, lifestyle and goals help guide appropriate timing

The decision of when to start HRT very much depends on the why - the specific reasons it is needed for each unique person. Close work between patient and provider can help determine the ideal timing based on a holistic view of potential benefits and risks within that individual’s circumstances. Hormone therapy should not be viewed simply as “replacement” of what the body lacks, but as customized supplementation used judiciously to help people feel their best at the right time.