Q. HRT treatment assists with the weight gain that occurred around 4 years ago with the onset of symptoms. The weight gain appears to be significantly fluid retention.

HRT does not make a difference (neither an increase nor a decrease) to weight. Bloating due to fluid retention that comes and goes can be a hormonal effect and usually settles down once menopause is established.

Q. Is it better to be underweight rather than a little on the heavier side at menopause? We have heard that some of the hormones are stored in adipose tissue.

A little oestrogen is made in adipose tissue, but how women experience symptoms does not seem to be affected markedly by our weight. However our overall health will benefit by being in the correct weight range.

Q. In regard to weight gain, does the metabolism slow and then settle once you've been through menopause and does it improve or can we help improve metabolism?

Most, though not all, women put on weight in midlife. This is probably due to metabolic changes as well as lifestyle changes. Being physically active, including doing some resistance work and eating sensibly is the bottom line.

Q. I am terrified that I'll put on weight if I go on hormones

Women commonly experience a weight gain of around 5 kg in midlife. Gaining weight specifically from hormone therapy, however, is uncommon. This may occur temporarily when starting treatment, but it is usually from fluid retention and is related to the body readjusting to changing hormone levels. Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet will help to control weight and will help to reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, as well as having a range of other beneficial effects.

Content updated 26 August 2011