Effect of hormone replacement therapy on salivary flow rate, buffer effect and pH in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women

The effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on salivary gland functions were examined in a longitudinal study. The flow rate, buffer effect and pH of paraffin-stimulated whole saliva were analysed in 8 perimenopausal and 19 postmenopausal women. The saliva samples were collected 1-2 days before as well as 3 and 5 months after the start of HRT. Salivary flow rates were higher (p < 0.033) in the perimenopausal than in the postmenopausal group. The flow rates increased significantly (p < 0.001) during HRT in both groups. Similarly, buffer effect and pH showed significant (p = 0.004 and p = 0.009, respectively) time-related changes without any differences between the groups. It appears that HRT improves both the quantity and the quality of salivary gland function in peri- and postmenopausal women.