Miroslav Borovský, Alexandra Krištúfková
Concerns about the pertaining risk of oestrogen exposure through hormonal therapy have prompted an increase
in the use of natural alternatives. Phytoestrogens may provide postmenopausal women with a practical alternative.
However, research regarding the efficacy of phytoestrogens as a hormone therapy alternative has been previously
pessimistic or questionable at best. The most current research regarding the efficacy of certain phytoestrogens, with
specific action as SERM (selective oestrogen receptor modulator), as have been shown their specific effect on the reduction
of climacteric symptoms, specifically vasomotor symptoms, vaginal atrophy, insomnia and osteoporosis. Phytoestrogens
with specific action as SERM (phytoSERM) may not increase clotting risk and have not shown an increase
in breast cancer risk or increase in endometrial hyperplasia. PhytoSERM may provide a safe and partially effective alternative
to hormonal therapy and may serve as a treatment option for patients who have contraindication to hormone
therapy.