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

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>In a trial setting, postmenopausal hormone therapy did not influence work or social involvement or health behaviour.</p> <p>Trial registration</p> <p>ISRCTN35338757</p

The impact of class position on women's experience of receiving health education information whilst in hospital

Objective: To explore the impact of class position on women's experience of receiving health education information whilst in hospital for elective surgery. Design: A qualitative methodology taking a feminist standpoint. Setting: Gynaecological units of three hospitals in divergent locations. Method In-depth interviews with a quota sample of 36 women who had undergone hysterectomy, drawn in equal numbers from each class position from three different centres. Results: Emerging themes indicate that women from differing class backgrounds have varied informational needs. Working class women accepted a passive role as patients and were satisfied with minimal information. In contrast, middle class women expected to take an active role and expressed a desire for more information. Neither group of women were entirely satisfied with the information provided for recovery. Conclusion: Women have demonstrated they are not a homogeneous group and have different informational needs. Health educators need to take a more differentiated approach, beginning with taking felt needs into account. Patient empowerment also needs to be addressed, as the notion of a free choice may be curtailed by unequal power relationships between patients and health professionals. Patient education should be viewed by both nurses and doctors as a necessity rather than a luxury