Over the years, scientists have found a surprising connection between hearing loss, menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in older women.
In 2007, one study found HRT offered a protective solution for hearing loss in postmenopausal women, suggesting that a mix of estrogen/progesterone can preserve women’s hearing abilities.[1]
However, in 2017, a team out of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston found the opposite—HRT can increase the risk of hearing loss in women who currently do not have hearing loss. Pills, patches, estrogen-only formulas and those combined with progesterone—the results were the same for all: The longer a woman is on HRT, the higher the risk of hearing loss.[2]
The team analyzed data for over 47,000 female nurses spanning two decades, concluding that a course of HRT for five to 10 years increased a woman’s risk of hearing loss by 15% compared to a woman not taking HRT.
Why HRT increases the risk of hearing loss is still a mystery. The connection is complex, and further research is needed.
We do know that HRT is traditionally used to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, restoring depleted levels of estrogen and progesterone. We also know we have estrogen receptors in ear cells and auditory pathways, though we don’t know how exactly estrogen affects hearing.
Like HRT, further study of the relationship between hormones and the hearing system is needed.
Until then, if you are concerned about menopause, HRT and your hearing, call Indiana Hearing Specialists today to schedule a hearing screening—(317) 671-8000. We offer thorough audiological testing and counseling for total patient satisfaction.
[1] Hederstierna, C., Hultcrantz, M., Collins, A., & Rosenhall, U. (2007). Hearing in women at menopause. Prevalence of hearing loss, audiometric configuration and relation to hormone replacement therapy. Acta oto-laryngological, 127(2), 149–155. https://doi.org/10.1080/00016480600794446
[2] Curhan, S. G., Eliassen, A. H., Eavey, R. D., Wang, M., Lin, B. M., & Curhan, G. C. (2017). Menopause and postmenopausal hormone therapy and risk of hearing loss. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 24(9), 1049–1056. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000000878