As women transition through mid-life, perimenopause and the topic of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) often emerge as significant yet frequently misunderstood subjects. Many women find themselves navigating a maze of information that is helpful, misleading, and sometimes just inaccurate.
We know that hormone decline impacts our emotional health, reproductive health, and physical bodies! There is a lot we still have to learn through research, but there is A LOT of information already available that can help you to take back your health and feel amazing in your late 30's, 40's, and beyond.
Let's take some time to explore 5 common misconceptions about
perimenopause and HRT. The goal here is to give you clarity to make decisions and feel confident in your learning!
1. You Can't Have Perimenopause Symptoms If You're Still Having Periods
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that if you're still having regular periods, you can't be experiencing perimenopause. THIS IS SO WRONG!
In reality, perimenopause can begin 10 or more years before menstruation stops completely. During this transitional phase, your hormones are a hot mess. They are high, low, and for some women can become very erratic. These hormone fluctuations can cause a variety of symptoms, including emotional changes, new anxiety, nigh sweats, changes in your physical body, weight gain, and hot flashes.
Irregular periods also happen during peri-menopause however they are a LATE symptoms of perimenopause. Not an early one. Just because you’re still menstruating doesn’t mean you’re not in perimenopause—nearly all women have symptoms while still having periods.
Key Takeaway:
You can experience perimenopausal symptoms even if your menstrual cycle is still regular. Noticing changes? Contact us! If you are not local to our services, you can talk with your PCP, OB-GYN, or midwife that provides your well woman care.
Many providers do not know how to manage peri-menopause. Take the time to find a provider who does.
https://portal.menopause.org/NAMS/NAMS/Directory/Menopause-Practitioner.aspx - a US based professional organization with a provider list
https://womenshormonenetwork.org/find-a-provider/ - US based professional organization with a provider list
2. HRT Is Only for Women Who Have Already Reached Menopause
Another myth is that hormone replacement therapy is only appropriate for women who have officially reached menopause (defined as 12 consecutive months without a period). In truth, nearly all women in perimenopause will benefit from HRT to alleviate symptoms that disrupt their daily lives and relationships.
Hormone therapy will treat your symptoms in perimenopause and menopause. However don't forget that HRT offers long term health benefits that protect these key areas:
Heart health - HRT prevents blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks
Cognitive health - developing research strongly suggests that HRT can work to prevent alzeihmers and dementia
Bone health - HRT can decrease your risk of bone fractures from osteoperosis by up to 50%
Key Takeaway:
HRT can be an option during perimenopause, so don’t hesitate to find a hormone literate provider!
3. HRT Is Dangerous and Should Be Avoided at All Costs
Concerns about the safety of HRT are widespread. These fears are fueled by outdated studies (which were proven inaccurate) and sensationalized media coverage.
Thankfully culture around women's health is changing! Research is overwhelmingly showing that HRT Is safe and offers long term health protection (not risks)!
While it's true that HRT isn’t suitable for everyone (there are some rare situations where HRT cannot be used) - it is overwhelmingly a safe and effective way to manage severe symptoms and protect your long term health.
Modern HRT formulations and recommendations are designed to compliment your body's needs as your hormones decline. As always - it is crucial to have an open dialogue about your medical history and any concerns you might have!
Key Takeaway:
HRT is a safe option for managing your perimenopause symptoms and protecting your health. Some recommended books on the topic include:
Estrogen Matters - Dr Avrum Bluming and Carol Tarvis PhD
The New Menopause - Dr Mary Claire-Haver
Its Not Hysteria - Dr Karen Tang
4. HRT Will Cause Weight Gain
Many women fear that starting hormone replacement therapy will lead to unwanted weight gain. While hormonal changes can influence body weight and fat distribution during perimenopause, HRT itself does not inherently cause weight gain.
In fact, managing symptoms through HRT may help some women regain control over their weight by supporting better blood sugar control, as well as alleviating factors like mood swings and sleep disturbances so that you can focus on yoru health without the soul-crushing fatigue.
If you have experienced significant weight gain, resarch has actuatlly shown that women on HRT and weight loss medciation will lose more weight compared to women only taking one of those therapies!
Key Takeaway:
HRT does not lead to weight gain. Estrogen loss contributes to weight gain and restoring yoru hormones can help support a healthier metabolism along with healthy eating and an exercise routine.
5. You Should Wait Until Menopause to Start HRT
Some women believe they should wait until they reach menopause to consider hormone replacement therapy. However, starting HRT during perimenopause makes the most sense. Perimenopause can last 10 years! Early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively, improve quality of life, and prevent complications associated with long-term estrogen deficiency.
Key Takeaway:
Don't wait until menopause to consider HRT if you're experiencing significant symptoms—early intervention can make a positive difference.
Conclusion
Navigating perimenopause and the options available for managing its symptoms can be challenging. If you’re experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, it’s essential to have a candid conversation with a healthcare provider who understands hormone replacement, hormone testing, and what options will be most supportive to you. Explore your options!
Learn about the benefits of HRT, regardless of your current menstrual status. Remember, understanding your body is the first step toward a strong and well informed mid-life transformation.
If you need help finding a provider, here are some resources! If you are located in Massachusetts - give us a call!
Comments