seeking treatment for their menopausal symptoms. It is a common misconception that hormone replacement therapy is controversial when, in reality, it can greatly improve a woman’s quality of life.
The hesitancy of physicians to prescribe HRT and the reluctance of women to take it comes down to a lack of education and understanding of the risks and benefits associated with the treatment. Many doctors, as well as patients, are still influenced by the negative headlines from the Women’s Health Initiative study from 2002, which highlighted the risks of hormone therapy, particularly for older women.
However, subsequent research has shown that the risks and benefits of HRT vary depending on a woman’s age, lifestyle, and medical history. For younger women, and those close to menopause, there are many potential benefits to starting hormone therapy — such as reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, decreased risk of bone loss and fracture, and lower rates of breast cancer when using estrogen-only therapy.
Dr. Malone emphasizes that medical education has not kept pace with current data, and that a generation of doctors still believe the headlines from 20 years ago. She stresses that the findings of the WHI study do not apply to younger women and that the benefits of HRT often outweigh the risks.
Dr. Haver also highlights the need for a more standardized approach to diagnosing and treating menopause-related symptoms, as well as the importance of discussing menopause care with patients in a comprehensive manner that includes nutrition, exercise, supplements, and stress reduction.
Overall, the experts agree that women deserve to be informed about the latest scientific recommendations for treating menopause symptoms, so that they can live long and healthy lives. Treating the symptoms of menopause should not be seen as risky or controversial, but as an important step towards improving a woman’s overall health and well-being.