The effects of postmenopausal hormone therapy on social activity, partner relationship, and sexual life – experience from the EPHT trial

BACKGROUND: With the exception of sexual functioning and weight, social and behavioural effects of postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) have not been reported from trials. This paper reports such results from the EPHT-trial in Estonia. METHODS: A randomized trial, with a blind and non-blind sub-trial in Estonia. From 1999–2001, 1778 women were recruited. The mean follow-up was 3.6 years. Women's experiences were asked in the first and final study year by mailed questionnaires (74 and 81% response rates). Comparisons of the groups were made by cross-tabulation and logistic regression, adjusting for age. RESULTS: There were no differences between the HT and non-HT groups in regard to being employed, the extent of social involvement or marital status or opinions on aging. There was no difference in the frequency of free-time exercise, or overweight. Some of the indicators suggested less sexual inactivity, but the differences were small. CONCLUSION: In a trial setting, postmenopausal hormone therapy did not influence work or social involvement or health behaviour. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN35338757