11/20/2025
Big news for women’s health: the FDA is officially removing the “black box warning” from estrogen hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
After years of fear based on a 2002 study that turned out to be flawed, more women may now feel comfortable trying HRT — and more doctors may feel comfortable prescribing it — to help with menopause symptoms.
Family Nurse Practitioner Jamie Cano-Gomez told KSAT 12 & KSAT.com's Courtney Friedman it’s “a huge stepping stone for women’s health.” HRT can help with hot flashes, insomnia, joint pain, irritability, weight gain and even bone density loss. Newer research also shows benefits like improved cognitive function and reduced risk of osteoporosis.
It’s not for everyone. Women should talk with their doctors, and those with hormone-sensitive cancers, a history of blood clots or stroke, or certain liver conditions can consider other options, including new non-hormonal treatments.
But overall? A big relief—and a big step forward—for a lot of women navigating menopause.