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Published by: Age Management Center
Recently, The Lancet published a series highlighting concerns about the over-medicalization of menopause, sparking discussions about the treatment approaches for this transitional phase in a woman’s life. While we wholeheartedly agree that supporting and empowering women through menopause requires a multifaceted approach, including workplace considerations, increased awareness, mental health support and broader access to various related resources, it’s crucial to address misconceptions surrounding specific treatments, particularly Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
The Lancet series suggests that menopause has been over-medicalized, implying that treatments like HRT may be unnecessary or harmful for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. However, it’s essential to recognize that menopause is a significant life transition that can profoundly impact a woman’s physical and emotional wellbeing. For many women, menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, “brain fog” and sleep disturbances can be disruptive and debilitating, affecting their quality of life. Not to mention the increased risk for cardiovascular events and a potential decrease in bone density and bone fractures.
For women with suboptimal hormones during the menopause transition, HRT, or menopause hormone therapy (MHT) remains one of the most effective ways to manage menopausal symptoms and improve overall quality of life. By optimizing hormone levels, hormone therapies can help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings, allowing women to navigate this transition with greater comfort and confidence. But, MHT offers long-term benefits as well, because menopause is far more than just uncomfortable hot flashes and night sweats.
There are significant health risks associated with the loss of hormones when a woman reaches this stage of life and MHT is the first line treatment. MHT offers many long-term benefits including control of symptoms like flashes and night sweats, as well as reducing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, improving heart health, reducing the risk of cognitive impairment and increasing your overall longevity. The best time to start hormone replacement therapy is within 10 years of your last menstrual period.
But, as outlined in The Lancet, women’s experiences with menopause can vary widely, menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and as such, treatment decisions should absolutely be personalized based on each woman’s unique needs, preferences, and medical history. While some women may find relief from menopausal symptoms through lifestyle modifications or alternative therapies, others may benefit significantly from HRT. Consulting with a healthcare provider who specializes in menopause care can help women make informed decisions about their treatment options and explore the most suitable approach for their individual circumstances. For example, our Dr. Marc Demers has been extensively tested and recognized by the North American Menopause Society as a Certified Menopause Practitioner.
While there have been concerns raised about the safety of HRT in the past, extensive research and clinical studies have demonstrated that when used appropriately and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, HRT is generally safe and well-tolerated for most women. Modern HRT formulations are designed to minimize risks and side effects, allowing women to reap the benefits of treatment with confidence and peace of mind.
Rather than dismissing the importance of medical interventions like HRT, our focus should be on empowering women with accurate information, comprehensive support, and access to a range of treatment options, including MHT. In fact, as outlined in The 2020 Menopausal Hormone Therapy Guidelines published in The Journal of Menopausal Medicine, “…the importance of women’s health and the quality of life (QoL) after menopause is increasing. The most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is menopausal hormone therapy (MHT).”
By fostering open and informed discussions about menopause and its management, we can help women make empowered decisions about their health and wellbeing during this transformative phase of life.
While we stand by the call for a holistic approach to supporting women before, during and after menopause it’s crucial not to overlook the significant benefits of medical interventions, like Hormone Replacement Therapy. By challenging misconceptions and promoting personalized, evidence-based care, we can ensure that women receive the support and empowerment they deserve as they navigate the menopausal transition.
Questions about your transition through menopause? Contact us today to schedule a free, no commitment, no pressure screening with one of our specialized menopause medical providers.
