Does menopausal hormone therapy cause additional weight gain or loss?

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) does not cause additional weight gain or weight loss. Here at Alloy, we want to reassure you that all the scientific data shows MHT does not make you gain weight. The average weight gain during menopause is about 5 to 8 pounds, but this is due to natural aging and hormonal changes—not hormone therapy itself.

In fact, MHT can actually help with fat distribution, making it less likely for weight to accumulate around your abdomen, which is a common concern during menopause. MHT may also help you preserve muscle mass, which is important for maintaining a healthy metabolism as you age. However, MHT is not a weight loss medication, and you should not expect it to cause significant weight loss.

If you want to learn more, check out our detailed article on menopausal weight changes and our weight health solutions.

For a quick expert explanation, watch the chapter "Hormone Therapy and Weight Management" from our YouTube video, where Alloy doctors discuss this exact topic. You can view it directly here.

If you're interested in exploring MHT options, see our products like the Estradiol Pill, Estradiol Patch, or Evamist Spray. You can also take our online assessment to find the right solution for you.

---

This answer was created using the following resources:

• Estradiol Pill
• Estradiol Patch
• Evamist® Estradiol Spray
• Low-Dose Birth Control Pill
• Menopause Myth Busting: Separating Fact from Fiction | Dr. Mary Jane Minkin - Weight Gain During Menopause
• A New Approach to Aging with Alloy - Hormone Therapy and Weight Management
• Hormone Therapy 101 (pt.3) | Dr. Corinne Menn - Hormone Therapy and Weight Gain
• Menopause Myth: Does Hormone Therapy Make You Gain Weight?
• The Reality of Menopause Weight Gain - Estrogen Therapy and Weight
• Why Do Women Gain Weight During Menopause? Alloy
• Do You Need Menopause Hormone Therapy?
• How to Lose Weight During Menopause: Weight Gain Tips
• Menopausal Weight Changes Explained | Alloy
• GLP-1 and Menopausal Hormone Therapy: A Powerful Combination