RecruitingObservational

Discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy: TAPER study

Many women use Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for menopause symptoms like hot flushes. However, some stop HRT due to concerns about long-term risks. When they stop, symptoms can return, leading some to restart HRT. This study, called TAPER, aims to understand why women stop HRT, what's important to them if they think about restarting, and how doctors and nurses help with these choices. Women who have stopped or restarted HRT, and healthcare professionals who care for women during menopause, may be invited to share their experiences through interviews and surveys. The study hopes to improve support for women, with no major risks, though talking about experiences might be emotional for some.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Birmingham

Enrolment target

115

Start

19 Aug 2025

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2030

Use of Hormone Replacement Therapy

What is this study about?

Many women experience uncomfortable symptoms during menopause, such as hot flushes and joint pain. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a common treatment that can help ease these symptoms. However, sometimes women decide to stop taking HRT. This might be because they are concerned about potential long-term risks, like the very small increased risk of breast cancer.

When women stop HRT, their menopause symptoms can unfortunately return. This can be difficult, and some women then choose to restart HRT. This study wants to understand this whole process better. It's looking at why women decide to stop HRT in the first place, what they consider when thinking about restarting it, and how doctors and nurses help them make these important decisions.

By gathering information from women and healthcare professionals, this study hopes to gain a clearer picture of these experiences. The aim is to use this knowledge to improve the advice and support available for all women navigating menopause and treatment options.

Key takeaways

This study explores why women stop and restart HRT.
It aims to improve support for women during menopause.
Participation involves sharing your experiences through interviews and surveys.
You won't receive new treatments or medicine.
Your input could help future women going through menopause.
The study is funded by a UK research body (NIHR).

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of people.

Firstly, they want to hear from women who are over 45 years old and have recently stopped or tried to stop HRT within the last three years. This is to understand their direct experiences.

Secondly, they are inviting healthcare professionals who work in the NHS and provide care for women going through menopause. Unfortunately, women with severe mental health issues or learning difficulties that might make it hard to understand and agree to take part carefully, may not be able to join. This decision would be made by a doctor or the research team to ensure everyone's safety and understanding.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman over 45 years old?
Have you stopped or tried to stop HRT in the last three years?
Are you a healthcare professional working in the NHS and providing menopause care?
Can you comfortably understand information and give your full permission to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would be asked to share your experiences and thoughts. This would likely involve taking part in an interview where you can talk about your journey with HRT, including why you stopped and if you restarted. There will also be a survey for women to fill out, which will help the researchers understand more about your reasons for restarting HRT and how you made these decisions. The study is run by the University of Birmingham.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly improve your own health or treatment, but your contribution could help many other women in the future by improving understanding and support for those going through menopause. There are no major physical risks involved in participating. However, discussing your experiences with menopause and HRT might bring up strong emotions for some people. If you find this happens, support will be available from the research team. Remember, taking part is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

University of Birmingham
Approximate
Birmingham, England

Common questions

What is HRT?

HRT stands for Hormone Replacement Therapy. It's a treatment that helps to relieve symptoms of menopause by replacing hormones that the body produces less of during this time.

Why is this study being done?

This study wants to understand why women stop HRT, what makes them decide to restart it, and how healthcare professionals support them with these choices. The aim is to improve support and care for women during menopause.

Who is paying for this research?

The study is being funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (often shortened to NIHR), which is a major research funder in the UK.

Will I have to take any new medicines?

No, this study is about understanding experiences and decisions around HRT you have already used. You will not be given any new medicines or treatments as part of this research.

How long will the study last?

The study's overall timeline isn't specified, but your individual participation would involve an interview and completing a survey. The time commitment for these specific activities would be explained to you before you agree to take part.

How to find out more

Eleanor Molloy

e.molloy@bham.ac.uk - Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.