328. Should I take hormones?

Episode 328: Should I take hormones? In this episode, I dive deep into the evolving conversation around hormone therapy—where we’ve been, where we are, and where we need to go. If you’ve been confused, scared, or unsure about hormones, this one’s for you. I break down the myths, share the science, and explain why education—not fear—should drive our health decisions. I talk about the crucial difference between vaginal and systemic hormones, the benefits of both, and why so many women are missing out simply because they’ve never been properly informed. I also touch on the role of GLP-1 medications, not just for weight, but as part of a broader discussion around midlife health. We also get into the realities of perimenopause—what’s normal, what’s not, and how to stop dismissing symptoms as “just aging.” I explain why hormone therapy isn’t just about hot flashes—it’s a longevity and quality-of-life tool. The truth? Living decades post-menopause without hormones can come with real risks. But with the right education, you get to choose what’s right for you. Reminder: knowledge is power—and the foundation of empowered healthcare. Takeaways: The narrative around hormone therapy is changing—from fear-based to informed and empowering. Education is the single most important tool in making good decisions about your health. Vaginal estrogen and DHEA are safe and effective for many postmenopausal women. Perimenopause isn’t just “normal aging”—hormonal shifts can cause real symptoms worth treating. GLP-1 medications are part of a bigger picture of metabolic and hormonal health. It’s never too late: women post-menopause can still benefit from hormone therapy. Hormones play a critical role in preventive health, including protecting your bones and brain. We need to stop misunderstanding breast cancer risk in the context of hormone therapy. Choosing to live without hormones comes with its own set of risks—know them before deciding. Want more honest, empowering conversations like this one?⁠⁠⁠ Preorder my Next Book⁠⁠⁠ , share this episode, and leave a review to help others find this important work. Let's stop leaving women out of the conversation—especially when it comes to sex, health, and healing. Listen to my Tedx Talk: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why we need adult sex ed⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waitlist is open⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Explore and expand pleasure with resources, advice, and the most exciting pleasure products with Good Vibes, and save 10% with coupon code NOTBROKEN10 at ⁠goodvibes.com/menopause⁠ Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Midi Women's Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinmidi.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices