In summary, oral estrogens are often prescribed to relieve menopause symptoms. They should not be used in women who have had breast cancer, thrombophlebitis, hypertension, gallstones, or undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding. Hormone replacement therapy has proven to be very useful in preventing osteoporosis, hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. More information is needed before they should be recommended for the prevention of heart disease in postmenopausal women.