Is hormone therapy the cheat code to perimenopause?
Summary
Host Mariel Segarra interviews Dr. Mara Gordon about the evolving science of menopause and hormone therapy. They discuss how hormone therapy effectively treats hot flashes and genitourinary symptoms, while clarifying that it is not proven to prevent heart disease or extend longevity. The episode outlines risks for women with specific health histories and highlights non-hormonal alternatives like SNRIs and local estrogen creams. Listeners are advised to seek Menopause Society-certified doctors for evidence-based care.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The shifting conversation on menopause
Defining menopause and perimenopause
How hormone therapy works and its forms
Benefits: Treating hot flashes and genitourinary symptoms
Sponsors: Strawberry.me, Children's Aid, and Charles Schwab
Heart disease risks and the timing hypothesis
Risks of hormone therapy and who should avoid it
Non-hormonal treatments: Local estrogen, SNRIs, and Vioza
Acupuncture, supplements, and marketing skepticism
Finding certified menopause specialists and telehealth
Recap of key takeaways on menopause treatment
Credits and closing advertisements
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