I have been taking estrogen since 1989 (39 years of age….early menopause). I was then told I needed also Progesterone. I now, and have for many, many years, taken Estradiol 0.05mg patch with Progesterone Micro 100mg capsule. I am now 74. I recently had very complete heart tests, including stress. I have no blockage (I was shocked, due heredity predisposition) and the Cardiologist and techs were surprised I did 135%; they expected 80% due to age. I am 5’6”, 160 lbs. I have had bad falls (usually doing house repairs …on ladders😬). I never broke any bones, only one concussion. Recently had breast mammogram and all was perfectly fine. Also, all my gynecologists have been women and were willing to prescribe HRT due to sleepless, sweaty nights and my insistence. They were all great. So, that is my story. Take care everyone.
@@Glyn-gq8ts I can relate , my health and marriage were ruined . Maybe it’s not too late for us to reverse some of the damage to our bodies , if nothing else .
I agree,a whole generation of women, mine, were denied healthcare because of this faulty study. I have aged so much and so have my friends, we struggle every day with aches, pains, etc. and we likely have lost 10 years off our lives. It is hard not to get angry. I am 62, last period was 10 years ago. Still suffer every night from hot flashes. Is there something that I can ask my physician?
I started on HRT when I was 67. I had such a damaged pelvic floor due to lack of estrogen it was the only way. It's taken 18 months but slowly getting better and getting my life back
Started HRT at 66 had pelvic organ prolapse, things have improved dramatically along with pelvic floor therapy. Also improved my sleep, hot flashes and blood glucose levels and overall mood.
Great....I am glad there is chance for over 60s. Unfortunately our generation missed the boat due to rumors. I asked myself this question. How come we had estrogen all our life's and suddenly at menopause it turns cancerous while men have it all their life. ???
@@denisehitchens1418Estrogen can cause uterine cancer because progesterone is also reduced. Estrogen and progesterone have to be in balance so you have to take both.
I am 71 and still having hot flashes (do not take any hormones) and difficulty sleeping. My mother died at 85 and still had hot flashes. Take hormones - don´t take hormones - start now or stop now! Every year it is a different story and this has been so confusing for women. One doctor says this and the other something else. Until doctors get their "story" straight about hormones women are afraid to get help.
I'm going to take her advice but when I had a hysterectomy and I had hot flashes did somebody get the health food store that went to my church tell me to take two wild yam and 25 mg of g h e a and I didn't have a hot flash anymore. Now I'm in my 70s and I'm thinking I'm going to take a hormone test which is covered by insurance, I don't know if any of this natural stuff is balanced so I'm taking the advice of this doctor.
I am almost 64 and started estradiol/estriol/testosterone cream and oral progesterone when I was 60.5 years old. My mom was on prempro after menopause and had endometrial cancer, so I wasn’t given hormone Rx. Well, my mom died of Alzheimer’s disease yesterday, and I carry one ApoE4 allele so I’m at increased risk of AD also. I’m really bummed that I had 10 years of no HRT, but I’m on it now and hope that it may help my brain anyway. I’m doing lots of things to improve my cognitive health and I’m feeling better than I did in my 50’s. Keep spreading the word, Dr Susan!
Ladies, i have had HRT fo around 8 years and I love it. I wanted since i got menopause at 50, but I couldn't afford it then. It's a life change:more energy, muscle, better sleep, less inflamation, amazing return to sexual life, better skin, etc. Don't lose a day if u can afford it. Of course, my gynecologist (she put the pellets every 6 months), keep me well checked with my mammograms. Don't be afraid, get informed, don't let ignorance deprive u from a much better, healthy, longer life❤
@nccrchurchunusual I don't think so, because for the pellet, they made blood tests to personalize them. But if they good 4 u, great, congratulations. I think everybody has the right to choose what is better for their bodies and respect other people choices.
I am completely pro choice in every way. To be informed and educated about our bodies and health can help to make the best decisions for ourselves. Everyone is different and should make the right choices after a good research. I wish a happy journey and life to everyone.
Thank you for the informative and enlighening youtube. I was refused HRT all my life even after a total hysterecomy aged 26 . I feel I lost years of my life. I only started HRT in my 60s after a heart attack when my cardiologist said it was essential for every woman to be on it. I also have severe osteoporosis.
I take Vitamin K2 for bones. I take a large amount, after reading the research I could find as a layperson not subscribed to any medical libraries, I determined it's safe for me but I encourage you to do your own research. I take Carlson brand 5 mg. One pill. Have been taking it for years. I lay out in the sun 3-4 times a week (with no sunscreen!) for vitamin D. I don't see doctors because I was medically abused for years and was tired of being called names and receiving no help so I manage my 52 years of Lyme disease on my own. I'm still alive and my nails are fabulous! My guess is Vitamin K2 would probably work better and definitely be safer than Boniva or any of those prescription drugs.
Wow. I am so angry for you that this happened. Your betrayal was worse than mine and now I am going - maybe I SHOULD be on HRT before the osteopenia progresses I am 69
@@MsGrannyfrog Thank you for your message, yes you definitely should take it. It will protect your bones and your heart. I do hope you are able to have it.
Girl, I was 29 when I had a hysterectomy and like you I was not given hormone replacement. I turned into a puny small woman with no breasts and I lost so much body mass.
I have been taking HRT estradiol patch for 2 years now. I’m 59. My family medicine doctor finally agreed to prescribe it for me. I had a hysterectomy 4 years ago. My hot flashes and joint pain have all but disappeared. I’m sleeping so much better. My skin feels better too. Trying to consistently do weight bearing exercises and keeping moving. I hope I can stay on HRT as long as possible. It’s a game changer!
I had breast cancer at 51 , Chemo and mastectomy. Months and months had passed I went to menopause women clinic here in London uk and I told everything about my cancer etc etc and she said why not to start hrt and testosterone Im telling that saved my life I feel normal again. Chemo and mastectomy really tooked everything out of me and I still have bad days and hrt helps with the menopause symptoms. This is my story and women are suffering for no reason.
Thank you Dr. Hardwick-Smith for this informative video! At 13:56 you begin to talk about other benefits like bone health. I had this exact conversation with my oncologist 4 days ago asking if I could go on HRT 15 years past BC and 13 past menopause, due to osteopenia, (creeping LDL and other issues which were not discussed). His response was if needed there are bone drugs. So, the risk for another BC is tiny but he would rather seem me on Prolia, a statin for my heart, surgery for my prolapse, and whatever drugs for cognitive issues (I don't have all of these but you take my point). He also referred to increased relative risks to going on HRT for individuals who have had BC. It's all very enraging.
Statins do not prevent heart attacks. I lowered my LDL 40 points by taking Cholestoff which is sold over the counter and Bergamot (my cardiologist recommended it). I feel your frustration because too many doctors are ignorant when it come to bio identical and OP medicine. My GYN never heard of the new Echo REMS Ultrasound which is far superior than the traditional DEXA scans. I'm having an echo REMS in two weeks.
Such a great video! So easy to understand. I am 60 years old and have been on an estrogen patch and progesterone for 4 years. My plan is to stay on these until I pass away. Thank you for all you do! 😘
I'm so glad I found your talk. I had been taking bio-identical hormones for quite sometime with great result. I was told I had to stop when I had a hip replacement 3 years ago. I've been miserable since. No sleep, brain fog, etc. Since hearing your talk here I am going to see my doctor and get back on estrogen. Thank you!!
I had hysterectomy when I was 42 and only uterus and one ovary was removed. They were both healthy, it was just extremely heavy period which I decided to remove my uterus and one ovary gave me pain without a reason. I am 64 now and very healthy. I took bioidentical estrogen estrodial ever since the surgery.
Super helpful - thanks! Just found you; I’m 62 and unfortunately lost out on HRT when I probably needed it most but will be talking to my provider at my next appt. I have been using E-string which has helped some symptoms but have recently been experiencing a lot of joint pain that I understand could be due to low estrogen (I get that measured periodically and it is very low). I’ve had two heart calcium scans and they are clear, luckily. Thank you for the clear explanations of where we are with the studies so that I can discuss my issues knowledgeably.
Thank you for sharing thus valuable information. I started taking estrogen a couple years ago but when my doctor found out she said she would have to drop me due to the chance if stroke, cancer etc.. so I stopped. Im 63 now and other than being diagnosed with fibro and rheumatoid arthritis ( in submission) my heart etc are all good! I get bloodwork done every 6mos due to the meds I take for the above mentioned. I was entertaining going back to hrt and have researching pros/cons etc and frankly I feel like I was misinformed when I stopped menstruation.
Thank you for this information! I’m 65 and just started the patch and progesterone so I’m hoping that this will work for me! You’ve given me some hope!❤
Thanks Dr. Susan. I just started HRT a little over a month ago and really appreciate your advice, which helped give me the confidence and courage to start the treatment...even though I'm over 60. God bless😊
There is a whole subgroup of women I’ve never heard anyone’s videos or podcasts address. It’s women, like myself, who were put into chemically induced menopause due to cancer treatment at a young age. I was 36 when this happened and even though mine was triple negative I was told no hrt. Now, at normal menopause age of 53, I have a plethora of menopause causing issues, ie: osteopenia, heart/cholesterol stuff, insomnia etc, and there seems to be no guidance for women like myself. I finally found someone to prescribe it for me, but I’m 16 years out of menopause now and have no idea if I’m doing more harm than good.
See a gynecologist who prescribes HRT. They’ll know the benefits and risks for you. A gynecologist who asks about hot flashes or says you’re over 60, this means they aren’t informed, and you need to move on. Even under the same hospital, not all doctors are informed. I had that experience.
I’m past menopause but the only symptoms I have are osteopenia and vag dryness. I did take these vaginal insertion , very light dose of hormones for sex a few years ago. They helped just a little. I’ve never had a heart test, so I guess that is next to make a decision. I’m super active and still working.
I'm 67 and have had to use maca along with other supplements because I was estrogen dominant when we tried bio-identical hormones and I didn't have a good response. You answered all of my questions. The excellent quality of your video information helped me decide to make an appointment. Thank you.
If she says no, get a second, third...opinion. I started on HRT at 60 also, and wish I'd know about the real risks and had a supportive doctor earlier. But better late than never. Advocate for yourself!
I started at 60 as well. Western med said no, so I went to a functional doctor. Yes,paid out of pocket for a bit BUT now my western medical doctor said she won’t take me off. Win!
I started at 76. Mostly because of sleeping habits! I also am very healthy and take no prescription drugs. I live in Fl and went to a practice that take care of mostly women. Have had no problems and lost 10 lbs and am now building muscle. I keep a healthy life style. I do the pellet method Exercise daily and do restricted eating hours or some call it interment ent fasting. I am now 78 and am doing well. Of course I have a mamagram yearly. I think clearer and have more interest in sex.
I am a fit, healthy, active 73 year old. have suffered with cystitis for 20 years and during the last year I had it almost constantly. It became so bad it was ruining my life. I am in the uk. Our GP’s are not allowed to prescribe HRT for a 73 year old but I read on our NHS website that an oestrogen pessary could be prescribed for interstitial cystitis, this was the first time I’d seen it recommended. I have been on it for 3 months now and it has been life changing. I have had no cystitis and feel wonderful. I’m disgusted that I only found out about it recently. How many other women are out there suffering?
GOTU KOLA remarkable for interstitial cystitis. Different angle my 58-70 year old mother re occurring urinery infections till she blew up on lowlife doctor who examined her to discover she had tumor between vagina and bladder, she opted for chemo against my advice she was dead two years later
I have BHRT on the NHS. I used a private hormone specialist and they wrote to my GP asking them to prescribe it. I’m 72 and started at 63. Hope that helps.
I went off HRT 2 years ago at 63, mostly for convenience (I take no other meds and filling and managing prescriptions is an annoyance). I've been miserable with hot flashes and insomnia although better than I was at 52 when I started. I recently saw a new PCP. Before I even finished talking about my sleep problem and that I wanted to restart HRT, her suggestion was HRT. I've been back on it for three days and already my mouth and eye dryness has resolved. Past experience was that it took about a week for the hot flashes and insomnia to resolve. I now plan to use it indefinitely. I'm a retired PCP and I always offered it to women with symptomatic menopause, but most of my patients were hesitant, even when I talked about the limitations of the WHI. In retrospect, I wish that I had been more assertive about suggesting HRT. However, price was another factor. The transdermal patches are not covered by most insurance plans and are ridiculously priced in comparison to oral forms and I worked with a population that was not wealthy.
@@myramiller4365 I buy them from Canada. They're pretty reasonably priced. I just paid $140 plus shipping for a 3 month supply or slightly more than half the cost for a one month supply in the US. Both versions are made in the same manufacturing facility. Patches are more complicated to produce than pills, so it's going to cost more.
Oh my goodness, thank you for your video. I am 68 yrs old and after 5 yrs of taking Boniva for my bones, my bone density is actually significantly worse. I am seeing an endocrinologist now that has given me two choices daily Forteo (very expensive) self injections or Prolia twice a year. I am very healthy with no cancer or heart health issues. I am totally going to insist on trying a transdermal hormone prescription for my bones and other symptoms . Thank you for all of your supporting data.❤
Please be careful about Prolia. There are great FB groups about OP and a Prolia group. Do you take D3 with K2, lift weights and walk daily? Do you get enough calcium from your diet?
Bone density tests are comparing you to a 38 yr. Old pre-menopausal woman. Meaning, nearly all women will be prescribed those treatments. They cause bones to be hard instead of flexible. Every woman I know on them has negative side effects including degenerative jaw/teeth issues and intense hip pain.
I am 69-year-old with osteoporosis. I did injections and infusions with no positive result. I went on HRT basically for bone health since I don’t have menopause symptoms. I’m still nervous about doing the estrogen cream because of my age. I’ve been out of menopause for at least 18 years. I did have a CAC of my heart which came out great. I’m still in the stage of finding what combination works with bloodwork. I wish I wasn’t so nervous only because I’m an older woman on HRT. I do work out hard almost every day. I’m pretty healthy.
I am 71 and is still suffering everyday with mood , depression and anxiety pain all over my bodyjoint pains and now insulin resistance Metabolic Syndrome, which my doctor is saying is diabetes. But I have no symptoms whatsoever of diabetes . I had a complete hysterectomy at 49 yrs olld and was never given any HRT treatments was told it would make me have a heart attack they scared me really bad . Now my doc wants me on meds for statin, metformin and BP meds. I was told at 60 yrs old I am too old for estrogen. I have been suffering with hot flashes and lots of stress. I am doing keto low carbs and no sugar absolutely diet. I have never seen a gynecologist since I had the hysterectomy. I need to get a gynecologist but my doc said I doc need one. I have vaginal dryness , hot lashes anxiety and my bones hurt. Can I get this HRT still? And where do I find a doctor who will prescribed this for me.?
I’m in the same boat. I hope you get it figured out. I’m going to see if I can have CAC scan and do a mammogram. Hopefully I will be able to start HRT.
I really appreciate your video and i learned a lot in 18 minutes! I started investigating this topic today after seekng Halle Berry on CBS Mornings advocating for more study and more awareness. I used a bioidentical HRT cream prescribed by my OBGYN for about 2 years after starting menopause. Now i live in Costa Rica, most symptoms have lessesened but not all. I just let it go because i didn't think i could find HRT here, but now i am encouraged to try. Thank you
This is good news, since I started taking estrogen at 62. I unfortunately heeded the warning of the WHI study and missed out on many years of protection HRT could have provided. But with updated information becoming mainstream a couple years ago, I decided to reap the many benefits of HRT. I’m still not sleeping as well as I’d like, but continue to investigate and test ways to improve on that.
This was about estrogen because the question about timing is only about estrogen... I mentioned the other 2 hormones have no timing controversy. Take all longterm unless some good reason to stop (like cancer )
Thank you for such clear and relevant information. Every time i pay for my HRT prescriptions I worry if I am wasting my money and damaging my body. I am 71 and have been using estradiol cream and progesterone for about 10 years and know that I look and feel better than many of the women much younger than me. I attribute that HRT and lots of vitamins. Still working on getting more exercise and eating better. Thanks for being easy to understand.
Within the last few months I have gone to 2 different female OBGYN's. The first doctor stated that I had to get off Hormone replacement because it causes cancer. I looked at her with a stunned look on my face saying nothing and she quickly said "but you don't have to". I then found another female doctor in a different practice and she started the same speel, get off the hormones, they cause cancer. What gives? I get my hormones from my primary care doctor who never questions me about it. I have no intention of stopping them!! Awesome timing of this video as I started second guessing myself.
I started Estogen patches in my 50’s some years after a hysterectomy. (I still had my overies). I am now 79 and I stopped about 2 years ago, because I thought I ought too. My hot flushes have started again occasionally at night, my hair is falling out a lot, and my skin is dry and thin. I now wish I had never stopped the patches. My Doctor never said I had to stop. I have read a few articles on Estogen being recommended to women in their 70 -80s. Was I wrong to stop. I have no health issues except GERDS for which I take Nexium 20 mg, one daily. I have yearly full blood tests, all fine, and I walk every other day for about 2 kms.
@@isobelstuart9529from listening to Dr Susan here and my own research and experience, my opinion is the answer is that you can, and should, start again. I’m 76, was on estradiol for about 15 years, then stopped for about 5 years due to moving to rural area without doctors, then pandemic made availability even worse. I just started again after finding a functional medicine specialist in female hormones willing to restart someone my age. Had TONS of blood and urine tests first and complete history review, etc. Just beginning to feel a little better after a month back on estradiol transdermal and progesterone. You go! and good luck 🤗
I have been on bioidentical hrt for about 8-9 years but all of a sudden this past year my skin has become thin & dry and my hair is thinning terribly. I went from patch and creams to pellets. Doc keeps testing me and changing prescriptions but nothing is helping. I don’t know what to do next !
I’m looking for a forward-thinking doctor for HRT. After telling her my concerns, my nurse practitioner said flat out that women don’t need estrogen after menopause.
Excellent explaination I just started E patch and P and feeling much better! Sleeping better and feeling happy less irritated. Im in peri and in my 40s.
I wish I knew 12 years ago what I know now. I had my ovaries removed and I am freaking out over bone loss and other things I didn't know about. I never had hormone therapy. I want to start now.
After using Premarin for a short time, and then the HRT Combipatch since menopause, my Gyn took me off HRT when I turned 70, saying the benefits are not worth the risk. Sadly, at nearly 72, I struggle with minor issues and building muscle and cannot locate a Doctor who will prescribed HRT in San Diego, CA. Honestly, my older Gyn had retired and the physicians I've seen since turning 70 were younger and didn't see the benefits of HRT. I wonder if it's too late to start HRT again if I can locate another like-minded physician.
@drsusan thank you. My grandmother, mother, two sisters have all had blood clots. Strokes, PEs, etc. I’m worried to take anything. What can I do to make sure HRT is ok for me to take?
Wonderful content! I was denied HRT for all the stated wrong reasons. I now have heart disease and osteopenia. Am I still out of luck because I have heart disease ?
I was refused HRT 10 years aog. I am now 65. I listened to another podcaster on HRT & she indicated that we need Estrogen to build muscle after menopause. Any thoughts?
I think it's definitely worth a discussion with your provider. We'd love to see you in Houston and as mentioned in this video, we address this on a case by case basis, but frequently the benefits outweigh any risk.
@@mandymaney6856 Thanks - that is encouraging. I am very sinewy. Never had much muscle - even in my youth. I will have a go at building myself up. Don't want to end up with a walker or in a Jazzy.
@@mandymaney6856How do you keep track of your composition? Do you do a scan pre and post increasing your protein intake? Just wondering how you are making the n/1 assertion. Thanks!
Dr. Susan, I literally just stumbled upon your channel while searching for information about menopause and HRT! I love the information you’ve shared! Thank you so much for your videos on women’s healthcare! I’m 57 and had to have a partial hysterectomy after the birth of our 6th child. When I was in my early teens I was a bit over weight, but lost the weight at 16 and kept it off until the birth of our first baby. I was a gestational diabetic with my first baby only, and they didn’t test me until I was 6 months along! They didn’t test blood sugar regularly back then. By then I’d gained quite a bit of weight bc of that situation. I didn’t lose all of the weight before I got pregnant with our next baby. But I did lose all of the weight after she was born and after our four sons. I managed to keep the weight off until I was about 51-52. I gained a little about 10-15lbs, but got it off again. Then about 4 yrs ago the weight started coming on my midsection quickly even though I hadn’t changed my diet. I figured it was menopause. Other than sleep problems (which I’ve had most of my life since I was a teen) and the weight gain. I’ve been really lucky not to have any other symptoms until this past yr, when I’ve been experiencing hair loss/thinning, hair texture changes, and my skin is looking dull, getting saggy and crepey looking on some of my face, body and neck no matter what I do. I’ve been reading and watching videos saying that HRT could help with the weight, skin, hair and bones. I’m ashamed to say I haven’t been to the doctor in yrs and I don’t even have a gynecologist anymore. I’ve been healthy other than an occasional seasonal cold. I know I’m past due on my mammogram and checkups which I know are a no no. We had lost our health ins for over a yr at one point, so that’s another reason I hadn’t been. My husband and only son still left in the home, had both had some serious health issues that needed dealt with in the past couple of yrs. So like many of us women,I had put myself on the back burner to take care of them. Altogether I’d gained almost 80 lbs which is a lot for me and my 5’4” height. I’m about 25 lbs away from my goal weight, but it has been a struggle now to get the rest off. I know it’s got to be bc of hormones. I have no idea when I went through menopause, because of the partial hysterectomy. I still have my ovaries. I was still getting pap spats through my GP bc even though I don’t have a cervix any longer, they had still detected cervical cells at one point.i figured around 53-54 was when I went though it bc that’s when the weight started to come back on. I was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease and a bulged disc and a hairline fracture back in my early 40’s which I was told I was really young for that and was advised not to have any kind of surgery in my back until the day came when I could no longer handle the pain bc I’d be back in every 5-10 yrs or so for more back surgery. I always have some back discomfort of some sort every day. I pretty much ignore any discomfort and try to keep mobile. I don’t take anything for it unless it’s real bad. I still do everything like I always have my whole life. I love playing with our grandkids and our dogs and doing yard work etc. I’ve not changed anything I’ve ever done. I have to be careful sometimes bc I’ve gotten my back out of whack for a day or a few days by over exerting at times, but I always bounce back. The whole reason for this long text was to ask if you suggest I take HRT for the weight, sleeplessness, skin and hair problems. I worry about my bones as well bc I do have back problems. The whole reason for this long text was to ask if you suggest I take HRT for the weight, sleeplessness, skin, hair problems. I worry about my bones and joints as well bc I do have the back problems. Any advice would be welcome. Thank you!😊
Bottom line- wanting to do more research - very intrigued. This vlog spoke to exactly my situation. I feel so betrayed by the medical system. I am 69. I had surgical menopause at the age of 42. Uterus and ovaries removed. Went on estrogen to kill the endometriosis then estratest for a few years then they said it was time to quit just to avoid risk down the road and now I know that was wrong. So wrong - At least my daughters will be armed with better knowledge as they start moving into perimenopause. Since then, I have continuously used Vagifem and before that another vaginal estrogen but nothing systemic. By now I actually am on a statin and have moderate atherosclerosis but no other issues..CAC score of 179 but that is after several years on a statin and that is how statins work to stabilize plaque. No heart issues. So now I am 69 with osteopenia and a doctor trying to push me over to bisphosphonates-as one of my t-scores (femoral neck) is -2.3. Frax risk just crossed 3 but only because they refuse to remove a fractured fibula from 20 years ago that was caused by a traumatic injury, not a simple fall. I redid the calculations, deleting that one value and frax goes down below the threshold though I am not just a set of numbers thank you very much. Focusing on protein, nutrition, resistance training both with a PT and a personal trainer they recommended (my osteopenia is only the femoral necks) and am very interested in learning about the progesterone/testosterone option and what is the story with the implanted estrogen? I would, honestly, like to look at peer reviewed articles. Between a BS in biochemistry and an MS in Chemistry I can follow most of them.
@@myramiller4365 My doctor cleared me for bio identical hormones. Not covered by insurance and not cheap but I am going to be trying that route. She referred me to a compounding pharmacy and I am starting the process first with a saliva test for hormone levels.............
Get your hands on the 2024 revised edition of the book Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming MD. It focuses on the question of estrogen after having breast cancer; however, it also discusses bone health, heart health and dementia. And it is full of references for peer reviewed studies. I actually purchased a couple study reports to read for myself. I'm just an accountant so I had to grab a medical dictionary, but I found lots of good info.
The "ten years" measure is MADE UP. Insurance companies love it, because it forms the basis for denial of claims. I asked my PCP one simple question - where does the ten year window come from? She couldn't tell me. We admit we don't study women's health, doctors in training received mere hours of review on the subject of menopause, so from whose arses do they pull these various guidelines? A guideline is only that - a guideline. It's not carved in stone, nor should a guideline be wielded as a cudgel against a woman whose needs fall outside of it. Particularly when said guideline is made up out of whole cloth.
I was on HRT when I started menopause at 42 and was on it for around 5 years. I have chronic insomnia and osteoporis and we have colon cancer in our family so after a bit of research I started HRT again 2 months ago at the age of 66. I sleep better but are there any other health benefits at my age when I was so long estrogen depleted? Its quite expensive to buy every month as well if it does nothing but increase my risk of dementia
There is always a risk taking hormones. We lose hormones while we age for a reason. Getting proper nutrition, and making sure your minerals are balanced is key to surviving menopause. If your diet is good and you don’t eat processed food and you take supplements that we need as we age is a way better prescription than hormones.
I’m 70. Been taking HRT since 44 (early menopause). I use an estradiol dermal patch, estradiol vaginal tablet and progesterone days 1-12. I have periods but didn’t want the alternative of taking the progesterone daily. Don’t plan to stop.
@cindyseverson2917 I'm not taking hormones now, but when I did begin, even thpnid not had a period for 8nueats, I had shedding, quite bad sometimes, starting a few weeks after I started, bled for a few weeks then just spotting then it stopped. It would start again if I missed taking the hrt but eventually it also stopped doing that. It isn't menstruation, we are not ovulating. But it is shedding of the mucus etc in the uterus. I wpuld Hate To be dealing with that now at 53 or at 70! No way! When I " led" it also was extremely painful
I am an MD who has been actively prescribing HRT to women since 1893. (Still practicing). I have been in the Endocrine Society, Menopause Society and very active with bioidentical hrt. It now seems like a very small number of my younger colleagues have a clear understanding of menopause and no clue how to prescribe it. What they are good at is saying "no". This has lead a huge increase in hip fractures from untreated osteoporosis and other miserys for women.
Considering a women in her 40s to 50s who is not really suffering any menopause symptoms and considering HRT is preventative, would not it be better to go on HRT anyway bearing in mind there is NO escape from the loss of oestrogen in our bodies as we age 🤔
I am one of those women who did not have hot flashes, depression, palpitations, insomnia or weight gain ( I eat soy everyday) so I chose not to start HRT. Now at 64, I have osteoporosis, and just started HRT.
HRT isn’t always take solely for symptoms of peri/ menopausal . that’s why it is important to have regular bone density scans to check to see how our bone health is, these scans let us know early that we are at risk so we can then slow the progression of bone thinning -HRT started after surgical induced early onset menopause , peri menopause or menopause it can help reduce recurrent urine infections lower the risk of osteoporosis, because oestrogen slows bone thinning and helps increase bone thickness. HRT may also reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease for some people.❤good luck
@@janie4638 Yes, I agree. I am chinese and plant based so I have always eaten soy daily. I. believe that's why I never experience hot flashes, weight gain, anxiety etc. I wish I knew my arthritis was related to menopause.
@@carolwong9279I have Hashimotos. No soy allowed for me. At 74 I lose words occasionally & forget things. I had docs not treat me at 30 for thyroid until I was 50. Can that be damaging? Depressed a little at times but never had hot flashes…..sleep varied. No HRT as I have high cholesterol and cancer in the family. Running to pee is an issue this year. Always exercised abd good supplements. Not a lot of starches. No big meals at night.
Thank you for providing this valuable content! I'm going to be 70 next year, had HRT all methods and finished up with pellets probably from 52-58. Horrible hot flashes until I finished 2 years of pellets. During that time, or shortly after, I developed insomnia associated with stress at work, doc put me on Xanax and still take it. My question is if I went to have heart checked, and started estradiol, would I be able to ween off Xanax? TIA, for any info or direction
I am 72 1/2 and was warned off hormone replacement, so now I have osteoporosis. Is it too late to take HRT now, to help improve my bone density or at least maintain what remains?
If you stopped HRT around 60 (because you thought or were advised there is no need to take it anymore), are non symptomatic, is it wise to start again at 62 assuming no risk factors and taking Bio identical estrogen?
Honest question how does estrogen replacement therapy know not to feed etorgen positive cancers. Concerns me since its required to stop bio identical estradiol with some breast cancers and required to stop even after cancer is cured.
My question is about dosing. I am currently on a .5 mg patch and am 61. Started on HRT early this year. Went through menopause late at age 56. Is there any reason not to increase my dose to .75 or 1.00 to maximize bone protection, and further assist in sleep issues, etc.? Thanks so much for all that you do.
Very good information Susan, I would like to start Estrogen,I am 63 years old,had a calcium test on my heart,which came back at 0. how much should I be prescribed? When I did go on the birth control pill,I found it increased my migraines,so I had to stop it. Do you think the estradiol could increase migraine now?
One question I wish she answered was if you go off, can you go back on? I was taken off the patch by my GP because she felt , no she listened totally to the women’s health initiative study. She believed or said that it was all contraindicated for women at my age. So now that doctors are better understanding this woman’s health initiative and finding that it was faulty why can’t I get back on the patch.? I was 66 when she took me off and now I’m 72 and yet I still have hot flashes and I still have night sweats and I, quite frankly want the protection of estradiol, but who is gonna prescribe it for me at this point? This is so frustrating to me.
I just wonder who named this stage of woman’s life ? Menopause? it’s not something that starts and ends once those hormones start to deplete they won’t suddenly start again unless we dramatically change our diets or use HRT so no Pause 😊
@drsusan great video. Question regarding dosing. Have there been any studies or do you have a particular dose you prescribe in general to provide beneficial bone/ heart protection? Are you drawing labs and looking for a certain level or just going by symptom control for dosing? Thanks!
I went threw early menopause, age 40. It was never suggested that I start hormones. I am now almost 53, my cholesterol is high, and I have fatty liver. My blood pressure has gone up a bit, so I am worried. I am taking a staten, and I'm about 40 lbs overweight. Is it ok to start on hormones? Would they help with my cholesterol? Or is it to late?
Im 67yrs still having palpations, hot flushes & insonmia. I had hysterestomy 5yrs ago. In last year or so i have little energy. Do you think HRT would help me? Or am I too old?
So wish more side effects are mentioned before starting HRT. I started with estradiol in February, intravaginally, and felt incredible--no more itching, my skin looked great, etc, but by August I began with bouts of nausea and diarrhea and lost 10 lbs in a month. After a trip to a gastroenterologist on 9/10, he informed me that several studies have shown that HRT causes microscopic colitis. I did stop using the estradiol on August 8, and to date, September 22, all the colitis symptoms have disappeared. I did have a number tests and a colonoscopy, with no reason for the onset of the colitis. What would my options be now? The only thing my gynecologist mentioned to me when she prescribed the estradiol was that I’d have sex like a 30 yr old, as if that was my only reason for using it.🙄
This video discusses the timing of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). Dr. Susan Hardwick-Smith, a board-certified gynecologist and menopause practitioner, addresses common questions about when to start MHT, when to stop, and if it's too late to start. Key Points: * When to Start MHT: The earlier you start MHT, the greater the benefits. Ideally, start within the first few years of menopause to protect the heart and brain. * When to Stop MHT: There's no specific age to stop MHT. Continue as long as you benefit from it, especially if you started early. Stopping abruptly can lead to rapid bone loss and vascular decline. * Is It Too Late to Start MHT? It's not too late to start MHT, even if you're older. If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms or want to protect your bones, consider starting MHT. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to assess your individual needs and risks. Additional Information: * MHT can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease when started early. * MHT can alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. * MHT can protect bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. * MHT is not suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Go to a medical professional who will do blood work and see where you stand on your hormone levels. Also if you take any kind of estrogen and still have a uterus, then you should also be taking progesterone.
Never too late to do something for your health!! I had uterine cancer at 37 and had a famous dr and taking estradiol for 37 years. Note, estradiol nothing else. There is a new medical study proving the positive benefits of estradiol. Take it and enjoy!!!
I am considering HRT for osteoporosis..Question is: would the amount of hormone from patches actually be strong enough to impact bone regrowth? 67 year old over 10 years menopausal ( full hysterectomy 11.5 years ago). Never considered needing hormones before bone fragility.
So I was refused HRT and told it caused cancer when I began developing symptoms and then at the age of 55 I was told I had bones of an 80 year old and my teeth had deteriorated because the bone reduction and my skin wrinkled up and my emotional state was a constant state of anxiety and panic until at the age f 57 I had a takot subo episode. I tried to get HRT and was told by 3 doctors they were very sorry but I wasn’t able to take it orally as it would cause cancer even though I was having physical symptoms causing me terrible issues so they said I could try pessiories so I took that on and off for a couple of years and felt a bit better but was not allowed to take it continuously in the end I didn’t bother and just accepted my fast aging state as normal. And here is the killer at the age of 58 I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. I had been ignored and diagnosed as having mental health issues anxiety paranoia inventing medical conditions I guess the panic I was feeling was my body telling me I had cancer. For 2 years I had said there was something wrong and was gaslight. I was lucky to find a young dr who decided to believe me and run tests and cancer was discovered. I now have to live with the terror that drs not believing me nearly killed me. I try not to let it affect me unfortunately now I’m 60 and I’m like an old woman dry skin vaginal atrophy bladder problems from the radiation bone aches teeth problems memory loss tremors and thyroid nodules and increased weight. My heart however is fine and my blood sugar levels fine. My question is can I take HRT and would it be helpful?
@HelenBeeee if you have had a hysterectomy I don't see why you couldn't. Get on the Estradiol pills then get some tretinoin 1% use that on your face every night with a layer of Vaseline or castor oil. Moisturize in the morning also. You can make changes that will make you look and feel better. P S. If you have insurance, Tret is not expensive.
Would my mom's doctor think I was crazy if I asked about progesterone to help my mother sleep? Mom is 84, frail, has anxiety, idiopathic peripheral neuropathy, balance issues, kyphosis and CHF and had a hysterectomy over 40 years ago due to a fibroid that twisted on its stem. She's never taken hormones. I took progesterone recently due to heavy bleeding related to menopause and the sleep was absolutely wonderful. I'm wondering if progesterone could help my elderly mother sleep too. She's currently taking small amounts of several things to help her sleep but it's pretty light doses because she's small (trazadone, aripiprazole, melatonin). What do you think?
Do you do virtual appointments/able to prescribe in NJ? Also, I just started perimenopause (had regular periods until @10 months ago and had one since in May 2024. I already had osteopenia 2 1/2 years ago. Suspect it is now osteoporosis because last spring, just before I turned 56, I broke a bone in my foot without doing anything to injure it and I’ve been having horrible, horrible, hot flashes and getting horrible sleep because I wake up several times throughout the night with night sweats. I know HRT would help with all that, but would the same form also help with facial sagging and wrinkles
Dr Susan, please address the 2022 hrt study from NAMS! NAMS meeting again this month! 16 yrs post and want to start hrt for the 3 diseases my mom had bc she didn’t take hrt.
NAMS (now called the menopause society) position statement is very clear about benefits of starting MHT in first 10 years. After that we take on case by case basis as I mentioned. Likely won't benefit heart or brain after 10 years - but may still have some bone and symptom benefit. Come see us to discuss!
@@drsusan Again, I would refer you to the latest study by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, the neuroscientist. It indicates that there can be improvement in brain function after the 10 year mark.
I tried 3 different times HRT during my 50th but I felt too much breast ache so I stoped each times. Now I’m 62 and 8 yrs after my menopause.. my health check ups were all normal .. now I’m waiting to start personalised bio identical hormones. I really don’t want miss the boat!! I really hope it will work.
Aside from HRT, is HGH included under that umbrella or is it a separate thing? Is it recommended or beneficial either for a woman that is not menopausal, peri menopausal or in menopause? A lot of IV drip therapy companies offer it. Just wanted your thoughts on HGH and is it beneficial for women? I have pcos and was researching and came acre this information. Any recommendations or onsite into someone with pcos?
Im 75 and have taken bios for 23 yrs! I run bike dance work etc! Found a dr from poland and it saved my life! Im healthy even after alot of tragedies! Best health decision i made! Have to pay cash! Sad for poor wome m and men!
This is really interesting. I went into menopause at age 57. I am currently 66, almost 67. I did not start any HRT because (a) I had no menopausal symptoms, (b) given my history of being a DES daughter, and having gone through fertility treatments, I was a little concerned about being bathed with extra hormones, and (c) my family history puts me at a higher risk of heart disease. I work hard to keep my cholesterol levels at reasonably good levels with diet and exercise and to date, have avoided the need to take any medications. I do know from a previous study I have some minor atherosclerosis. Would it be beneficial for me to seek some kind of HRT to reduce the risk of future medical issues?
I have been on prempro for approximately 7 years not sure if this is an ok HRT. I am 62 it changed my life. Any thoughts on staying with it or possibly changing?
I miss one thing in this (very good otherwise) video: when is it optimal to start the therapy? Do we know? It is quite crucial, because it is only prescribed for five years at present where I live. What's the most beneficial period?
The optimal time to start is immediately at the time of menopause, or even in perimenopause if you are symptomatic. Sooner the better- hopefully by the time five years passes for you, your local healthcare providers will have become more up-to-date with the science and will keep you on it long-term! We'd love to see you here in Houston or remotely!
The optimal time to start is immediately at the time of menopause, or even in perimenopause if you are symptomatic. Sooner the better- hopefully by the time five years passes for you, your local healthcare providers will have become more up-to-date with the science and will keep you on it long-term! We'd love to see you here in Houston or remotely!
Hi, please, how can I tell my doctor controversy is only with estrogen? I have chronic, stable heart failure in postmenopause. Of course I’m wondering if menopause opened up for this disease, but right now I just want to try progesterone and testosterone for my many menopausal symptoms.
@dr susan hardwick-smith, is there a difference between hrt and bio identical estrogen and does insurance help pay for this? I went through menopause late does that change things?
I'm 70 years old and have horrific hot flashes of sweaty clammy cold hot flashes, that have been going on for at least 6 years. My new doctor recommended taking the patch. My question is, is the patch estradiol? And should I have a coronary artery calcium scan before starting the patch? Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you😊
What if ive never been on hormones .I'm 61 im pist menopause, but now i feel like risk factors for heart disease , colon cancer puts je at a higher risk ?
I recently started taking HRT.I had some inflammation and hyperpigmentation. Is this something that happens when using Estradiol plus I was taking progesterone? My doctor(s) don’t really know what to do. Any comments about hyperpigmentation issues?
Thank you @drsusan. Finally overcame fears and myths and began HRT about a month ago at 59 y/o. However my follow up levels now show my Estrone number (55) is almost twice my Estradiol (31). Doctor says it should be the opposite and this may explain why I continue retaining water and my breasts keep feeling tender. She suggested to begin taking DIM daily to help balance my levels. Am I on a safe route?
Is 100 mg progesterone micro a low dose? I had side effects to the 200 mg 25 years ago. Will I have the same reason with the 100 mg dose? I'm nervous about starting the estradiol patch because of the progesterone side effect I had before. Are there other methods of progesterone I can take?
I have been taking estrogen since 1989 (39 years of age….early menopause).
I was then told I needed also Progesterone.
I now, and have for many, many years, taken Estradiol 0.05mg patch
with Progesterone Micro 100mg capsule. I am now 74.
I recently had very complete heart tests, including stress.
I have no blockage (I was shocked, due heredity predisposition) and the Cardiologist and techs were surprised I did 135%; they expected 80% due to age. I am 5’6”, 160 lbs. I have had bad falls (usually doing house repairs …on ladders😬). I never broke any bones, only one concussion.
Recently had breast mammogram and all was perfectly fine.
Also, all my gynecologists have been women and were willing to prescribe HRT due to sleepless, sweaty nights and my insistence. They were all great.
So, that is my story.
Take care everyone.
Thank you for sharing!
@@janist6626 Thank you for sharing. It helps us all.
Why would you do mammogram at that age?
So you’re using synthetic hormones, right?
Inspirational. Thank you. 🩷
My generation lost careers and marriages due to the faulty study that denied us HRT.
I was one of them sadly
@@Glyn-gq8ts I can relate , my health and marriage were ruined . Maybe it’s not too late for us to reverse some of the damage to our bodies , if nothing else .
Same here. Lies
@@Rhetor305 I agree! I did not lose a marriage, but I missed an active sex life and my husband missed my enthusiasm for being a women.
I agree,a whole generation of women, mine, were denied healthcare because of this faulty study. I have aged so much and so have my friends, we struggle every day with aches, pains, etc. and we likely have lost 10 years off our lives. It is hard not to get angry. I am 62, last period was 10 years ago. Still suffer every night from hot flashes. Is there something that I can ask my physician?
I started on HRT when I was 67. I had such a damaged pelvic floor due to lack of estrogen it was the only way. It's taken 18 months but slowly getting better and getting my life back
I'm so heartened to hear this, i'm soon to turn 64 never taken HRT and my pelvic floor and bladder are in terrible shape
Started HRT at 66 had pelvic organ prolapse, things have improved dramatically along with pelvic floor therapy. Also improved my sleep, hot flashes and blood glucose levels and overall mood.
Great....I am glad there is chance for over 60s. Unfortunately our generation missed the boat due to rumors. I asked myself this question. How come we had estrogen all our life's and suddenly at menopause it turns cancerous while men have it all their life. ???
@@denisehitchens1418Estrogen can cause uterine cancer because progesterone is also reduced. Estrogen and progesterone have to be in balance so you have to take both.
Can taking HRT help vaginal atrophy?
I am 71 and still having hot flashes (do not take any hormones) and difficulty sleeping. My mother died at 85 and still had hot flashes. Take hormones - don´t take hormones - start now or stop now! Every year it is a different story and this has been so confusing for women. One doctor says this and the other something else. Until doctors get their "story" straight about hormones women are afraid to get help.
Why don't you try and see what works for YOU?
I take natural suplements and don't have any symptoms
We have survived menopause since the human population began. We only know what we know.
I'm going to take her advice but when I had a hysterectomy and I had hot flashes did somebody get the health food store that went to my church tell me to take two wild yam and 25 mg of g h e a and I didn't have a hot flash anymore. Now I'm in my 70s and I'm thinking I'm going to take a hormone test which is covered by insurance, I don't know if any of this natural stuff is balanced so I'm taking the advice of this doctor.
How did your mom have hot flashes after she already died?
I am almost 64 and started estradiol/estriol/testosterone cream and oral progesterone when I was 60.5 years old. My mom was on prempro after menopause and had endometrial cancer, so I wasn’t given hormone Rx. Well, my mom died of Alzheimer’s disease yesterday, and I carry one ApoE4 allele so I’m at increased risk of AD also. I’m really bummed that I had 10 years of no HRT, but I’m on it now and hope that it may help my brain anyway. I’m doing lots of things to improve my cognitive health and I’m feeling better than I did in my 50’s.
Keep spreading the word, Dr Susan!
Ladies, i have had HRT fo around 8 years and I love it. I wanted since i got menopause at 50, but I couldn't afford it then. It's a life change:more energy, muscle, better sleep, less inflamation, amazing return to sexual life, better skin, etc. Don't lose a day if u can afford it. Of course, my gynecologist (she put the pellets every 6 months), keep me well checked with my mammograms. Don't be afraid, get informed, don't let ignorance deprive u from a much better, healthy, longer life❤
You dont have to take those expensive pellets. Reg patches & micronized pills do the same thing- Dr Mary Claire Havor YTube
So agree with you
@nccrchurchunusual I don't think so, because for the pellet, they made blood tests to personalize them. But if they good 4 u, great, congratulations. I think everybody has the right to choose what is better for their bodies and respect other people choices.
I am completely pro choice in every way. To be informed and educated about our bodies and health can help to make the best decisions for ourselves. Everyone is different and should make the right choices after a good research. I wish a happy journey and life to everyone.
Thank you for the informative and enlighening youtube. I was refused HRT all my life even after a total hysterecomy aged 26 . I feel I lost years of my life. I only started HRT in my 60s after a heart attack when my cardiologist said it was essential for every woman to be on it. I also have severe osteoporosis.
I take Vitamin K2 for bones. I take a large amount, after reading the research I could find as a layperson not subscribed to any medical libraries, I determined it's safe for me but I encourage you to do your own research. I take Carlson brand 5 mg. One pill. Have been taking it for years. I lay out in the sun 3-4 times a week (with no sunscreen!) for vitamin D. I don't see doctors because I was medically abused for years and was tired of being called names and receiving no help so I manage my 52 years of Lyme disease on my own. I'm still alive and my nails are fabulous! My guess is Vitamin K2 would probably work better and definitely be safer than Boniva or any of those prescription drugs.
Wow. I am so angry for you that this happened. Your betrayal was worse than mine and now I am going - maybe I SHOULD be on HRT before the osteopenia progresses I am 69
@@MsGrannyfrog Thank you for your message, yes you definitely should take it. It will protect your bones and your heart. I do hope you are able to have it.
Girl, I was 29 when I had a hysterectomy and like you I was not given hormone replacement. I turned into a puny small woman with no breasts and I lost so much body mass.
Has it reversed your osteoporosis? Do you take OP meds?
I have been taking HRT estradiol patch for 2 years now. I’m 59. My family medicine doctor finally agreed to prescribe it for me. I had a hysterectomy 4 years ago. My hot flashes and joint pain have all but disappeared. I’m sleeping so much better. My skin feels better too. Trying to consistently do weight bearing exercises and keeping moving. I hope I can stay on HRT as long as possible. It’s a game changer!
what strength patch did he/she prescribe?
0.06mg Estradiol patch. Apply 1 patch every 7 days.
So excited to watch this - Exactly what I have been asking. I am 64 and “ missed the boat”.😳
I had breast cancer at 51 , Chemo and mastectomy. Months and months had passed I went to menopause women clinic here in London uk and I told everything about my cancer etc etc and she said why not to start hrt and testosterone Im telling that saved my life I feel normal again. Chemo and mastectomy really tooked everything out of me and I still have bad days and hrt helps with the menopause symptoms. This is my story and women are suffering for no reason.
What hrt are you taking? I take testosterone. I'm 18 yrs out from having breast cancer. Estrogen/ Progesterone? oral, cream?
@@elizabetharka oestrogen two pumps every morning and tostran 2 % one pump every other day . At night progesterone 2 capsule .
@@mariavassallo1260 it is so sad.
Thank you Dr. Hardwick-Smith for this informative video! At 13:56 you begin to talk about other benefits like bone health. I had this exact conversation with my oncologist 4 days ago asking if I could go on HRT 15 years past BC and 13 past menopause, due to osteopenia, (creeping LDL and other issues which were not discussed). His response was if needed there are bone drugs. So, the risk for another BC is tiny but he would rather seem me on Prolia, a statin for my heart, surgery for my prolapse, and whatever drugs for cognitive issues (I don't have all of these but you take my point). He also referred to increased relative risks to going on HRT for individuals who have had BC. It's all very enraging.
Statins do not prevent heart attacks. I lowered my LDL 40 points by taking Cholestoff which is sold over the counter and Bergamot (my cardiologist recommended it). I feel your frustration because too many doctors are ignorant when it come to bio identical and OP medicine. My GYN never heard of the new Echo REMS Ultrasound which is far superior than the traditional DEXA scans. I'm having an echo REMS in two weeks.
What is BC?
Such a great video! So easy to understand. I am 60 years old and have been on an estrogen patch and progesterone for 4 years. My plan is to stay on these until I pass away. Thank you for all you do! 😘
I'm so glad I found your talk. I had been taking bio-identical hormones for quite sometime with great result. I was told I had to stop when I had a hip replacement 3 years ago. I've been miserable since. No sleep, brain fog, etc. Since hearing your talk here I am going to see my doctor and get back on estrogen. Thank you!!
I had hysterectomy when I was 42 and only uterus and one ovary was removed. They were both healthy, it was just extremely heavy period which I decided to remove my uterus and one ovary gave me pain without a reason. I am 64 now and very healthy. I took bioidentical estrogen estrodial ever since the surgery.
Super helpful - thanks! Just found you; I’m 62 and unfortunately lost out on HRT when I probably needed it most but will be talking to my provider at my next appt. I have been using E-string which has helped some symptoms but have recently been experiencing a lot of joint pain that I understand could be due to low estrogen (I get that measured periodically and it is very low). I’ve had two heart calcium scans and they are clear, luckily. Thank you for the clear explanations of where we are with the studies so that I can discuss my issues knowledgeably.
Thank you for sharing thus valuable information. I started taking estrogen a couple years ago but when my doctor found out she said she would have to drop me due to the chance if stroke, cancer etc.. so I stopped. Im 63 now and other than being diagnosed with fibro and rheumatoid arthritis ( in submission) my heart etc are all good! I get bloodwork done every 6mos due to the meds I take for the above mentioned. I was entertaining going back to hrt and have researching pros/cons etc and frankly I feel like I was misinformed when I stopped menstruation.
Thank you for this information! I’m 65 and just started the patch and progesterone so I’m hoping that this will work for me! You’ve given me some hope!❤
Is it helping? My wife is looking into bio identical
Were you not on HRT before?
Thanks Dr. Susan. I just started HRT a little over a month ago and really appreciate your advice, which helped give me the confidence and courage to start the treatment...even though I'm over 60. God bless😊
Is it helping?
@@joncannon1735 - Hi. It's still a little too soon. Don't feel much yet. Though, the progesterone is helping me sleep better.
@@GreenFamilyReunionthen you are feeling better…..sleeping better is amazing.
There is a whole subgroup of women I’ve never heard anyone’s videos or podcasts address. It’s women, like myself, who were put into chemically induced menopause due to cancer treatment at a young age. I was 36 when this happened and even though mine was triple negative I was told no hrt. Now, at normal menopause age of 53, I have a plethora of menopause causing issues, ie: osteopenia, heart/cholesterol stuff, insomnia etc, and there seems to be no guidance for women like myself. I finally found someone to prescribe it for me, but I’m 16 years out of menopause now and have no idea if I’m doing more harm than good.
See a gynecologist who prescribes HRT. They’ll know the benefits and risks for you. A gynecologist who asks about hot flashes or says you’re over 60, this means they aren’t informed, and you need to move on. Even under the same hospital, not all doctors are informed. I had that experience.
I’m past menopause but the only symptoms I have are osteopenia and vag dryness. I did take these vaginal insertion , very light dose of hormones for sex a few years ago. They helped just a little. I’ve never had a heart test, so I guess that is next to make a decision. I’m super active and still working.
I'm 67 and have had to use maca along with other supplements because I was estrogen dominant when we tried bio-identical hormones and I didn't have a good response. You answered all of my questions. The excellent quality of your video information helped me decide to make an appointment. Thank you.
Brilliant info - thanks. I was denied hrt - no need and now at 60 my GP says its too late - am revisiting this with her! Thx
If she says no, get a second, third...opinion. I started on HRT at 60 also, and wish I'd know about the real risks and had a supportive doctor earlier. But better late than never. Advocate for yourself!
I started at 60 as well. Western med said no, so I went to a functional doctor. Yes,paid out of pocket for a bit BUT now my western medical doctor said she won’t take me off. Win!
I started at 76. Mostly because of sleeping habits! I also am very healthy and take no prescription drugs. I live in Fl and went to a practice that take care of mostly women. Have had no problems and lost 10 lbs and am now building muscle. I keep a healthy life style. I do the pellet method Exercise daily and do restricted eating hours or some call it interment ent fasting. I am now 78 and am doing well. Of course I have a mamagram yearly. I think clearer and have more interest in sex.
Who did you go to in Florida?
@@jillpenny438 It is a womens Clinic. If you are familiar with RIVER VIEW OR APOLLO BEACH FL IT IS located 30 min south of Tampa.
I need to do this not pellets but a patch maybe.
How wonderful, do you take progesterone also?
I am a fit, healthy, active 73 year old. have suffered with cystitis for 20 years and during the last year I had it almost constantly. It became so bad it was ruining my life. I am in the uk. Our GP’s are not allowed to prescribe HRT for a 73 year old but I read on our NHS website that an oestrogen pessary could be prescribed for interstitial cystitis, this was the first time I’d seen it recommended. I have been on it for 3 months now and it has been life changing. I have had no cystitis and feel wonderful. I’m disgusted that I only found out about it recently. How many other women are out there suffering?
I have that also and it is miserable and ruining my life for years now and I am 70. I am going to ask for something.
GOTU KOLA remarkable for interstitial cystitis. Different angle my 58-70 year old mother re occurring urinery infections till she blew up on lowlife doctor who examined her to discover she had tumor between vagina and bladder, she opted for chemo against my advice she was dead two years later
I live with IC. It's awful.
I have BHRT on the NHS. I used a private hormone specialist and they wrote to my GP asking them to prescribe it. I’m 72 and started at 63. Hope that helps.
For those who can’t get this D-mannose powder helps prevent as well
This video is great! You took a complicated subject and broke it down so well. Thank you Dr. Hardwick-Smith. I just shared & subscribed.
Great pod for this 72yo. Thanks Dr. Hardwick.
What specific heart related testing do you order for your post-menopausal patients who have never started HRT before prescribing HRT?
Thank you doctor. Can you explain what the benefit would be if you only took progesterone?
I went off HRT 2 years ago at 63, mostly for convenience (I take no other meds and filling and managing prescriptions is an annoyance). I've been miserable with hot flashes and insomnia although better than I was at 52 when I started. I recently saw a new PCP. Before I even finished talking about my sleep problem and that I wanted to restart HRT, her suggestion was HRT. I've been back on it for three days and already my mouth and eye dryness has resolved. Past experience was that it took about a week for the hot flashes and insomnia to resolve. I now plan to use it indefinitely.
I'm a retired PCP and I always offered it to women with symptomatic menopause, but most of my patients were hesitant, even when I talked about the limitations of the WHI. In retrospect, I wish that I had been more assertive about suggesting HRT. However, price was another factor. The transdermal patches are not covered by most insurance plans and are ridiculously priced in comparison to oral forms and I worked with a population that was not wealthy.
I was wanting to get on patches, but with the expense I guess I will not.
@@myramiller4365 I buy them from Canada. They're pretty reasonably priced. I just paid $140 plus shipping for a 3 month supply or slightly more than half the cost for a one month supply in the US. Both versions are made in the same manufacturing facility. Patches are more complicated to produce than pills, so it's going to cost more.
Oh my goodness, thank you for your video. I am 68 yrs old and after 5 yrs of taking Boniva for my bones, my bone density is actually significantly worse. I am seeing an endocrinologist now that has given me two choices daily Forteo (very expensive) self injections or Prolia twice a year. I am very healthy with no cancer or heart health issues. I am totally going to insist on trying a transdermal hormone prescription for my bones and other symptoms . Thank you for all of your supporting data.❤
Please be careful about Prolia. There are great FB groups about OP and a Prolia group. Do you take D3 with K2, lift weights and walk daily? Do you get enough calcium from your diet?
Bone density tests are comparing you to a 38 yr. Old pre-menopausal woman. Meaning, nearly all women will be prescribed those treatments. They cause bones to be hard instead of flexible. Every woman I know on them has negative side effects including degenerative jaw/teeth issues and intense hip pain.
I am 69-year-old with osteoporosis. I did injections and infusions with no positive result. I went on HRT basically for bone health since I don’t have menopause symptoms. I’m still nervous about doing the estrogen cream because of my age. I’ve been out of menopause for at least 18 years. I did have a CAC of my heart which came out great. I’m still in the stage of finding what combination works with bloodwork. I wish I wasn’t so nervous only because I’m an older woman on HRT. I do work out hard almost every day. I’m pretty healthy.
I am 71 and is still suffering everyday with mood , depression and anxiety pain all over my bodyjoint pains and now insulin resistance Metabolic Syndrome, which my doctor is saying is diabetes. But I have no symptoms whatsoever of diabetes . I had a complete hysterectomy at 49 yrs olld and was never given any HRT treatments was told it would make me have a heart attack they scared me really bad . Now my doc wants me on meds for statin, metformin and BP meds. I was told at 60 yrs old I am too old for estrogen. I have been suffering with hot flashes and lots of stress. I am doing keto low carbs and no sugar absolutely diet. I have never seen a gynecologist since I had the hysterectomy. I need to get a gynecologist but my doc said I doc need one. I have vaginal dryness , hot lashes anxiety and my bones hurt. Can I get this HRT still? And where do I find a doctor who will prescribed this for me.?
Look at Dr Tassone, he's in Austin and is licensed in several states, he offers video consultations.
Good luck.
I’m in the same boat. I hope you get it figured out.
I’m going to see if I can have CAC scan and do a mammogram.
Hopefully I will be able to start HRT.
I really appreciate your video and i learned a lot in 18 minutes! I started investigating this topic today after seekng Halle Berry on CBS Mornings advocating for more study and more awareness. I used a bioidentical HRT cream prescribed by my OBGYN for about 2 years after starting menopause. Now i live in Costa Rica, most symptoms have lessesened but not all. I just let it go because i didn't think i could find HRT here, but now i am encouraged to try. Thank you
Try it cause without it alzemers, heart and bone loss sets in
Thank you so much for such a straightforward explanation. I’m going to have a conversation with my doctor.
Dr Gersch is another dr who has great info on bios too! Long term in educating us also!
This is good news, since I started taking estrogen at 62. I unfortunately heeded the warning of the WHI study and missed out on many years of protection HRT could have provided. But with updated information becoming mainstream a couple years ago, I decided to reap the many benefits of HRT. I’m still not sleeping as well as I’d like, but continue to investigate and test ways to improve on that.
Thank you for the information. I hope you cover testosterone and progesterone as well on this topic of how long you should take.
This was about estrogen because the question about timing is only about estrogen... I mentioned the other 2 hormones have no timing controversy. Take all longterm unless some good reason to stop (like cancer )
Thank you for such clear and relevant information. Every time i pay for my HRT prescriptions I worry if I am wasting my money and damaging my body. I am 71 and have been using estradiol cream and progesterone for about 10 years and know that I look and feel better than many of the women much younger than me. I attribute that HRT and lots of vitamins. Still working on getting more exercise and eating better. Thanks for being easy to understand.
Good news is now you can be empowered to ask again ! Would be delighted to see you in Houston :)
@@drsusan in Maryland mostly. So is my dr, Neil Rosenschein.
Within the last few months I have gone to 2 different female OBGYN's. The first doctor stated that I had to get off Hormone replacement because it causes cancer. I looked at her with a stunned look on my face saying nothing and she quickly said "but you don't have to". I then found another female doctor in a different practice and she started the same speel, get off the hormones, they cause cancer. What gives? I get my hormones from my primary care doctor who never questions me about it. I have no intention of stopping them!! Awesome timing of this video as I started second guessing myself.
Yes- sad lack of education amongst doctors ! Good job educating yourself. Tell them to read "estrogen matters" or mail them a copy !
I started Estogen patches in my 50’s some years after a hysterectomy. (I still had my overies). I am now 79 and I stopped about 2 years ago, because I thought I ought too. My hot flushes have started again occasionally at night, my hair is falling out a lot, and my skin is dry and thin. I now wish I had never stopped the patches. My Doctor never said I had to stop. I have read a few articles on Estogen being recommended to women in their 70 -80s. Was I wrong to stop. I have no health issues except GERDS for which I take Nexium 20 mg, one daily. I have yearly full blood tests, all fine, and I walk every other day for about 2 kms.
@@isobelstuart9529from listening to Dr Susan here and my own research and experience, my opinion is the answer is that you can, and should, start again. I’m 76, was on estradiol for about 15 years, then stopped for about 5 years due to moving to rural area without doctors, then pandemic made availability even worse. I just started again after finding a functional medicine specialist in female hormones willing to restart someone my age. Had TONS of blood and urine tests first and complete history review, etc. Just beginning to feel a little better after a month back on estradiol transdermal and progesterone. You go! and good luck 🤗
I have been on bioidentical hrt for about 8-9 years but all of a sudden this past year my skin has become thin & dry and my hair is thinning terribly. I went from patch and creams to pellets. Doc keeps testing me and changing prescriptions but nothing is helping. I don’t know what to do next !
I have estrogen gel, I see that some women use it on their face for wrinkles. Is that okay?
I’m looking for a forward-thinking doctor for HRT. After telling her my concerns, my nurse practitioner said flat out that women don’t need estrogen after menopause.
Excellent explaination I just started E patch and P and feeling much better! Sleeping better and feeling happy less irritated. Im in peri and in my 40s.
I wish I knew 12 years ago what I know now. I had my ovaries removed and I am freaking out over bone loss and other things I didn't know about. I never had hormone therapy. I want to start now.
After using Premarin for a short time, and then the HRT Combipatch since menopause, my Gyn took me off HRT when I turned 70, saying the benefits are not worth the risk. Sadly, at nearly 72, I struggle with minor issues and building muscle and cannot locate a Doctor who will prescribed HRT in San Diego, CA. Honestly, my older Gyn had retired and the physicians I've seen since turning 70 were younger and didn't see the benefits of HRT. I wonder if it's too late to start HRT again if I can locate another like-minded physician.
I've been told the same that at 70 there would be no benefit. Sorry, but I don't believe this.
Find a fundamental or holistic medicine doctor, one versed in both eastern and western medicine.
Same happened to me. Hot flashes returned in my mid seventies
@drsusan
thank you. My grandmother, mother, two sisters have all had blood clots. Strokes, PEs, etc. I’m worried to take anything. What can I do to make sure HRT is ok for me to take?
Wonderful content! I was denied HRT for all the stated wrong reasons. I now have heart disease and osteopenia. Am I still out of luck because I have heart disease ?
When you say heart disease what are your symptoms? I have high blood pressure but not sure if that disqualifies
@
Cardiovascular disease with plaque in the arteries discovered by Z Calcium Score
Thank you for this informative video.
I was refused HRT 10 years aog. I am now 65. I listened to another podcaster on HRT & she indicated that we need Estrogen to build muscle after menopause. Any thoughts?
I think it's definitely worth a discussion with your provider. We'd love to see you in Houston and as mentioned in this video, we address this on a case by case basis, but frequently the benefits outweigh any risk.
I am 68 not on HRT and can build muscle with increased protein in my diet. Just my experience.
@@mandymaney6856 Thanks - that is encouraging. I am very sinewy. Never had much muscle - even in my youth. I will have a go at building myself up. Don't want to end up with a walker or in a Jazzy.
@@mandymaney6856not in mine ! I eat carnivore and still no muscle
@@mandymaney6856How do you keep track of your composition? Do you do a scan pre and post increasing your protein intake? Just wondering how you are making the n/1 assertion. Thanks!
Dr. Susan, I literally just stumbled upon your channel while searching for information about menopause and HRT!
I love the information you’ve shared! Thank you so much for your videos on women’s healthcare!
I’m 57 and had to have a partial hysterectomy after the birth of our 6th child. When I was in my early teens I was a bit over weight, but lost the weight at 16 and kept it off until the birth of our first baby. I was a gestational diabetic with my first baby only, and they didn’t test me until I was 6 months along! They didn’t test blood sugar regularly back then. By then I’d gained quite a bit of weight bc of that situation. I didn’t lose all of the weight before I got pregnant with our next baby. But I did lose all of the weight after she was born and after our four sons. I managed to keep the weight off until I was about 51-52. I gained a little about 10-15lbs, but got it off again. Then about 4 yrs ago the weight started coming on my midsection quickly even though I hadn’t changed my diet. I figured it was menopause. Other than sleep problems (which I’ve had most of my life since I was a teen) and the weight gain. I’ve been really lucky not to have any other symptoms until this past yr, when I’ve been experiencing hair loss/thinning, hair texture changes, and my skin is looking dull, getting saggy and crepey looking on some of my face, body and neck no matter what I do. I’ve been reading and watching videos saying that HRT could help with the weight, skin, hair and bones. I’m ashamed to say I haven’t been to the doctor in yrs and I don’t even have a gynecologist anymore. I’ve been healthy other than an occasional seasonal cold. I know I’m past due on my mammogram and checkups which I know are a no no. We had lost our health ins for over a yr at one point, so that’s another reason I hadn’t been. My husband and only son still left in the home, had both had some serious health issues that needed dealt with in the past couple of yrs. So like many of us women,I had put myself on the back burner to take care of them.
Altogether I’d gained almost 80 lbs which is a lot for me and my 5’4” height. I’m about 25 lbs away from my goal weight, but it has been a struggle now to get the rest off. I know it’s got to be bc of hormones. I have no idea when I went through menopause, because of the partial hysterectomy. I still have my ovaries. I was still getting pap spats through my GP bc even though I don’t have a cervix any longer, they had still detected cervical cells at one point.i figured around 53-54 was when I went though it bc that’s when the weight started to come back on.
I was diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease and a bulged disc and a hairline fracture back in my early 40’s which I was told I was really young for that and was advised not to have any kind of surgery in my back until the day came when I could no longer handle the pain bc I’d be back in every 5-10 yrs or so for more back surgery. I always have some back discomfort of some sort every day. I pretty much ignore any discomfort and try to keep mobile. I don’t take anything for it unless it’s real bad. I still do everything like I always have my whole life. I love playing with our grandkids and our dogs and doing yard work etc. I’ve not changed anything I’ve ever done. I have to be careful sometimes bc I’ve gotten my back out of whack for a day or a few days by over exerting at times, but I always bounce back.
The whole reason for this long text was to ask if you suggest I take HRT for the weight, sleeplessness, skin and hair problems. I worry about my bones as well bc I do have back problems.
The whole reason for this long text was to ask if you suggest I take HRT for the weight, sleeplessness, skin, hair problems. I worry about my bones and joints as well bc I do have the back problems.
Any advice would be welcome. Thank you!😊
Bottom line- wanting to do more research - very intrigued. This vlog spoke to exactly my situation.
I feel so betrayed by the medical system. I am 69.
I had surgical menopause at the age of 42. Uterus and ovaries removed. Went on estrogen to kill the endometriosis then estratest for a few years then they said it was time to quit just to avoid risk down the road and now I know that was wrong. So wrong - At least my daughters will be armed with better knowledge as they start moving into perimenopause.
Since then, I have continuously used Vagifem and before that another vaginal estrogen but nothing systemic.
By now I actually am on a statin and have moderate atherosclerosis but no other issues..CAC score of 179 but that is after several years on a statin and that is how statins work to stabilize plaque. No heart issues.
So now I am 69 with osteopenia and a doctor trying to push me over to bisphosphonates-as one of my t-scores (femoral neck) is -2.3. Frax risk just crossed 3 but only because they refuse to remove a fractured fibula from 20 years ago that was caused by a traumatic injury, not a simple fall. I redid the calculations, deleting that one value and frax goes down below the threshold though I am not just a set of numbers thank you very much.
Focusing on protein, nutrition, resistance training both with a PT and a personal trainer they recommended (my osteopenia is only the femoral necks) and am very interested in learning about the progesterone/testosterone option and what is the story with the implanted estrogen?
I would, honestly, like to look at peer reviewed articles. Between a BS in biochemistry and an MS in Chemistry I can follow most of them.
I have many of the same issues as you, I am 70 and want to take something because I have urinary problems, and also no energy.
@@myramiller4365 My doctor cleared me for bio identical hormones. Not covered by insurance and not cheap but I am going to be trying that route. She referred me to a compounding pharmacy and I am starting the process first with a saliva test for hormone levels.............
Get your hands on the 2024 revised edition of the book Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming MD. It focuses on the question of estrogen after having breast cancer; however, it also discusses bone health, heart health and dementia. And it is full of references for peer reviewed studies. I actually purchased a couple study reports to read for myself. I'm just an accountant so I had to grab a medical dictionary, but I found lots of good info.
Yes it is good I have been on it since I was 42. I am now 78 and still take it.
Smart you. I let my doctor talk me out of taking it after menopause and everything changed. … more wrinkles, brain fog, less energy etc. 😢
I wished I had I had a TAH at 42 because of endometriosis and having benign tumors.
What one is best, I am asking those who have taken it for a long while
What one do you take. I am getting a female doctor!
Explained very well!
The "ten years" measure is MADE UP. Insurance companies love it, because it forms the basis for denial of claims.
I asked my PCP one simple question - where does the ten year window come from? She couldn't tell me. We admit we don't study women's health, doctors in training received mere hours of review on the subject of menopause, so from whose arses do they pull these various guidelines?
A guideline is only that - a guideline. It's not carved in stone, nor should a guideline be wielded as a cudgel against a woman whose needs fall outside of it. Particularly when said guideline is made up out of whole cloth.
Preach!
Thank you! Your video was very helpful!!!
I was on HRT when I started menopause at 42 and was on it for around 5 years. I have chronic insomnia and osteoporis and we have colon cancer in our family so after a bit of research I started HRT again 2 months ago at the age of 66. I sleep better but are there any other health benefits at my age when I was so long estrogen depleted? Its quite expensive to buy every month as well if it does nothing but increase my risk of dementia
There is always a risk taking hormones. We lose hormones while we age for a reason. Getting proper nutrition, and making sure your minerals are balanced is key to surviving menopause. If your diet is good and you don’t eat processed food and you take supplements that we need as we age is a way better prescription than hormones.
I’m 70. Been taking HRT since 44 (early menopause). I use an estradiol dermal patch, estradiol vaginal tablet and progesterone days 1-12. I have periods but didn’t want the alternative of taking the progesterone daily. Don’t plan to stop.
You have periods at 70?
@cindyseverson2917 I'm not taking hormones now, but when I did begin, even thpnid not had a period for 8nueats, I had shedding, quite bad sometimes, starting a few weeks after I started, bled for a few weeks then just spotting then it stopped. It would start again if I missed taking the hrt but eventually it also stopped doing that. It isn't menstruation, we are not ovulating. But it is shedding of the mucus etc in the uterus. I wpuld Hate To be dealing with that now at 53 or at 70!
No way! When I " led" it also was extremely painful
I am an MD who has been actively prescribing HRT to women since 1893. (Still practicing). I have been in the Endocrine Society, Menopause Society and very active with bioidentical hrt. It now seems like a very small number of my younger colleagues have a clear understanding of menopause and no clue how to prescribe it. What they are good at is saying "no". This has lead a huge increase in hip fractures from untreated osteoporosis and other miserys for women.
Considering a women in her 40s to 50s who is not really suffering any menopause symptoms and considering HRT is preventative, would not it be better to go on HRT anyway bearing in mind there is NO escape from the loss of oestrogen in our bodies as we age 🤔
I am one of those women who did not have hot flashes, depression, palpitations, insomnia or weight gain ( I eat soy everyday) so I chose not to start HRT. Now at 64, I have osteoporosis, and just started HRT.
HRT isn’t always take solely for symptoms of peri/ menopausal . that’s why it is important to have regular bone density scans to check to see how our bone health is, these scans let us know early that we are at risk so we can then slow the progression of bone thinning -HRT started after surgical induced early onset menopause , peri menopause or menopause it can help reduce recurrent urine infections
lower the risk of osteoporosis, because oestrogen slows bone thinning and helps increase bone thickness. HRT may also reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease for some people.❤good luck
@@KiwikimNZ Wish I started HRT earlier but better late than never.
I never had a hot flash either, but had other awful symptoms. I'm vegan and also eat a lot of soy, so I do think that helps. Hope you feel better!!!
@@janie4638 Yes, I agree. I am chinese and plant based so I have always eaten soy daily. I. believe that's why I never experience hot flashes, weight gain, anxiety etc. I wish I knew my arthritis was related to menopause.
@@carolwong9279I have Hashimotos. No soy allowed for me. At 74 I lose words occasionally & forget things. I had docs not treat me at 30 for thyroid until I was 50. Can that be damaging? Depressed a little at times but never had hot flashes…..sleep varied. No HRT as I have high cholesterol and cancer in the family. Running to pee is an issue this year. Always exercised abd good supplements. Not a lot of starches. No big meals at night.
That was brief concise and clear! TY
Thank you for providing this valuable content! I'm going to be 70 next year, had HRT all methods and finished up with pellets probably from 52-58. Horrible hot flashes until I finished 2 years of pellets. During that time, or shortly after, I developed insomnia associated with stress at work, doc put me on Xanax and still take it. My question is if I went to have heart checked, and started estradiol, would I be able to ween off Xanax? TIA, for any info or direction
Hope so ! That's a great idea to try !
the LYXBAGS would be super cute during the fall with a nude or tan or even tonal outfit! i’m thinking a tan wool coat with that bag!!
I am 72 1/2 and was warned off hormone replacement, so now I have osteoporosis. Is it too late to take HRT now, to help improve my bone density or at least maintain what remains?
If you stopped HRT around 60 (because you thought or were advised there is no need to take it anymore), are non symptomatic, is it wise to start again at 62 assuming no risk factors and taking Bio identical estrogen?
Honest question how does estrogen replacement therapy know not to feed etorgen positive cancers. Concerns me since its required to stop bio identical estradiol with some breast cancers and required to stop even after cancer is cured.
My question is about dosing. I am currently on a .5 mg patch and am 61. Started on HRT early this year. Went through menopause late at age 56. Is there any reason not to increase my dose to .75 or 1.00 to maximize bone protection, and further assist in sleep issues, etc.? Thanks so much for all that you do.
Very good information Susan, I would like to start Estrogen,I am 63 years old,had a calcium test on my heart,which came back at 0. how much should I be prescribed? When I did go on the birth control pill,I found it increased my migraines,so I had to stop it. Do you think the estradiol could increase migraine now?
One question I wish she answered was if you go off, can you go back on? I was taken off the patch by my GP because she felt , no she listened totally to the women’s health initiative study. She believed or said that it was all contraindicated for women at my age. So now that doctors are better understanding this woman’s health initiative and finding that it was faulty why can’t I get back on the patch.? I was 66 when she took me off and now I’m 72 and yet I still have hot flashes and I still have night sweats and I, quite frankly want the protection of estradiol, but who is gonna prescribe it for me at this point? This is so frustrating to me.
I survived menopause but post - menp. Is miserable. This information is very helpful. Thank you.
I just wonder who named this stage of woman’s life ? Menopause? it’s not something that starts and ends once those hormones start to deplete they won’t suddenly start again unless we dramatically change our diets or use HRT so no Pause 😊
@drsusan great video. Question regarding dosing. Have there been any studies or do you have a particular dose you prescribe in general to provide beneficial bone/ heart protection? Are you drawing labs and looking for a certain level or just going by symptom control for dosing? Thanks!
I went threw early menopause, age 40. It was never suggested that I start hormones. I am now almost 53, my cholesterol is high, and I have fatty liver. My blood pressure has gone up a bit, so I am worried. I am taking a staten, and I'm about 40 lbs overweight. Is it ok to start on hormones? Would they help with my cholesterol? Or is it to late?
Im 67yrs still having palpations, hot flushes & insonmia. I had hysterestomy 5yrs ago. In last year or so i have little energy. Do you think HRT would help me? Or am I too old?
So wish more side effects are mentioned before starting HRT. I started with estradiol in February, intravaginally, and felt incredible--no more itching, my skin looked great, etc, but by August I began with bouts of nausea and diarrhea and lost 10 lbs in a month. After a trip to a gastroenterologist on 9/10, he informed me that several studies have shown that HRT causes microscopic colitis. I did stop using the estradiol on August 8, and to date, September 22, all the colitis symptoms have disappeared. I did have a number tests and a colonoscopy, with no reason for the onset of the colitis. What would my options be now? The only thing my gynecologist mentioned to me when she prescribed the estradiol was that I’d have sex like a 30 yr old, as if that was my only reason for using it.🙄
This video discusses the timing of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). Dr. Susan Hardwick-Smith, a board-certified gynecologist and menopause practitioner, addresses common questions about when to start MHT, when to stop, and if it's too late to start.
Key Points:
* When to Start MHT: The earlier you start MHT, the greater the benefits. Ideally, start within the first few years of menopause to protect the heart and brain.
* When to Stop MHT: There's no specific age to stop MHT. Continue as long as you benefit from it, especially if you started early. Stopping abruptly can lead to rapid bone loss and vascular decline.
* Is It Too Late to Start MHT? It's not too late to start MHT, even if you're older. If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms or want to protect your bones, consider starting MHT. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to assess your individual needs and risks.
Additional Information:
* MHT can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease when started early.
* MHT can alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
* MHT can protect bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
* MHT is not suitable for everyone. It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
How do you know if you need testosterone or progesterone
Go to a medical professional who will do blood work and see where you stand on your hormone levels. Also if you take any kind of estrogen and still have a uterus, then you should also be taking progesterone.
How effective is HRT at preventing mental illness, e.g depression and psychosis? What about if depression and psychosis has already set in?
But how to get it. Doctors don't prescribe it. And how much is the amount? 1mg?
Never too late to do something for your health!! I had uterine cancer at 37 and had a famous dr and taking estradiol for 37 years. Note, estradiol
nothing else. There is a new medical study proving the positive benefits of estradiol. Take it and enjoy!!!
I am considering HRT for osteoporosis..Question is: would the amount of hormone from patches actually be strong enough to impact bone regrowth? 67 year old over 10 years menopausal ( full hysterectomy 11.5 years ago). Never considered needing hormones before bone fragility.
So I was refused HRT and told it caused cancer when I began developing symptoms and then at the age of 55 I was told I had bones of an 80 year old and my teeth had deteriorated because the bone reduction and my skin wrinkled up and my emotional state was a constant state of anxiety and panic until at the age f 57 I had a takot subo episode. I tried to get HRT and was told by 3 doctors they were very sorry but I wasn’t able to take it orally as it would cause cancer even though I was having physical symptoms causing me terrible issues so they said I could try pessiories so I took that on and off for a couple of years and felt a bit better but was not allowed to take it continuously in the end I didn’t bother and just accepted my fast aging state as normal. And here is the killer at the age of 58 I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. I had been ignored and diagnosed as having mental health issues anxiety paranoia inventing medical conditions I guess the panic I was feeling was my body telling me I had cancer. For 2 years I had said there was something wrong and was gaslight. I was lucky to find a young dr who decided to believe me and run tests and cancer was discovered. I now have to live with the terror that drs not believing me nearly killed me. I try not to let it affect me unfortunately now I’m 60 and I’m like an old woman dry skin vaginal atrophy bladder problems from the radiation bone aches teeth problems memory loss tremors and thyroid nodules and increased weight. My heart however is fine and my blood sugar levels fine. My question is can I take HRT and would it be helpful?
Every patient is different, but certainly is possible, depending on your personal history. We'd be happy to see you to discuss!
@HelenBeeee
if you have had a hysterectomy I don't see why you couldn't. Get on the Estradiol pills then get some tretinoin 1% use that on your face every night with a layer of Vaseline or castor oil. Moisturize in the morning also. You can make changes that will make you look and feel better. P S. If you have insurance, Tret is not expensive.
Would my mom's doctor think I was crazy if I asked about progesterone to help my mother sleep? Mom is 84, frail, has anxiety, idiopathic peripheral neuropathy, balance issues, kyphosis and CHF and had a hysterectomy over 40 years ago due to a fibroid that twisted on its stem. She's never taken hormones. I took progesterone recently due to heavy bleeding related to menopause and the sleep was absolutely wonderful. I'm wondering if progesterone could help my elderly mother sleep too. She's currently taking small amounts of several things to help her sleep but it's pretty light doses because she's small (trazadone, aripiprazole, melatonin). What do you think?
Do you do virtual appointments/able to prescribe in NJ?
Also, I just started perimenopause (had regular periods until @10 months ago and had one since in May 2024. I already had osteopenia 2 1/2 years ago. Suspect it is now osteoporosis because last spring, just before I turned 56, I broke a bone in my foot without doing anything to injure it and I’ve been having horrible, horrible, hot flashes and getting horrible sleep because I wake up several times throughout the night with night sweats.
I know HRT would help with all that, but would the same form also help with facial sagging and wrinkles
Should you also take progesterone also at the same time?
Dr Susan, please address the 2022 hrt study from NAMS!
NAMS meeting again this month!
16 yrs post and want to start hrt for the 3 diseases my mom had bc she didn’t take hrt.
NAMS (now called the menopause society) position statement is very clear about benefits of starting MHT in first 10 years. After that we take on case by case basis as I mentioned. Likely won't benefit heart or brain after 10 years - but may still have some bone and symptom benefit. Come see us to discuss!
@@drsusan Again, I would refer you to the latest study by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, the neuroscientist. It indicates that there can be improvement in brain function after the 10 year mark.
I tried 3 different times HRT during my 50th but I felt too much breast ache so I stoped each times.
Now I’m 62 and 8 yrs after my menopause.. my health check ups were all normal .. now I’m waiting to start personalised bio identical hormones. I really don’t want miss the boat!! I really hope it will work.
Aside from HRT, is HGH included under that umbrella or is it a separate thing? Is it recommended or beneficial either for a woman that is not menopausal, peri menopausal or in menopause? A lot of IV drip therapy companies offer it. Just wanted your thoughts on HGH and is it beneficial for women?
I have pcos and was researching and came acre this information. Any recommendations or onsite into someone with pcos?
Im 75 and have taken bios for 23 yrs! I run bike dance work etc! Found a dr from poland and it saved my life! Im healthy even after alot of tragedies! Best health decision i made! Have to pay cash! Sad for poor wome m and men!
This is really interesting. I went into menopause at age 57. I am currently 66, almost 67. I did not start any HRT because (a) I had no menopausal symptoms, (b) given my history of being a DES daughter, and having gone through fertility treatments, I was a little concerned about being bathed with extra hormones, and (c) my family history puts me at a higher risk of heart disease. I work hard to keep my cholesterol levels at reasonably good levels with diet and exercise and to date, have avoided the need to take any medications. I do know from a previous study I have some minor atherosclerosis. Would it be beneficial for me to seek some kind of HRT to reduce the risk of future medical issues?
I have been on prempro for approximately 7 years not sure if this is an ok HRT. I am 62 it changed my life. Any thoughts on staying with it or possibly changing?
I miss one thing in this (very good otherwise) video: when is it optimal to start the therapy? Do we know? It is quite crucial, because it is only prescribed for five years at present where I live. What's the most beneficial period?
The optimal time to start is immediately at the time of menopause, or even in perimenopause if you are symptomatic. Sooner the better- hopefully by the time five years passes for you, your local healthcare providers will have become more up-to-date with the science and will keep you on it long-term! We'd love to see you here in Houston or remotely!
The optimal time to start is immediately at the time of menopause, or even in perimenopause if you are symptomatic. Sooner the better- hopefully by the time five years passes for you, your local healthcare providers will have become more up-to-date with the science and will keep you on it long-term! We'd love to see you here in Houston or remotely!
How is the HRT made? From where are the contents derived?
How do I go about finding a Doctor Who will test me to see if I'm able to take HRT?
How do I make a virtual appointment with you?
Hi, please, how can I tell my doctor controversy is only with estrogen? I have chronic, stable heart failure in postmenopause. Of course I’m wondering if menopause opened up for this disease, but right now I just want to try progesterone and testosterone for my many menopausal symptoms.
@dr susan hardwick-smith, is there a difference between hrt and bio identical estrogen and does insurance help pay for this? I went through menopause late does that change things?
I'm 70 years old and have horrific hot flashes of sweaty clammy cold hot flashes, that have been going on for at least 6 years. My new doctor recommended taking the patch. My question is, is the patch estradiol? And should I have a coronary artery calcium scan before starting the patch? Any information would be greatly appreciated! Thank you😊
Yes the patch is estradiol. And yes I would clear your heart first
What if ive never been on hormones .I'm 61 im pist menopause, but now i feel like risk factors for heart disease , colon cancer puts je at a higher risk ?
I recently started taking HRT.I had some inflammation and hyperpigmentation. Is this something that happens when using Estradiol plus I was taking progesterone? My doctor(s) don’t really know what to do. Any comments about hyperpigmentation issues?
So are you saying it's OK to take progesterone without estrogen?
Thank you @drsusan. Finally overcame fears and myths and began HRT about a month ago at 59 y/o. However my follow up levels now show my Estrone number (55) is almost twice my Estradiol (31). Doctor says it should be the opposite and this may explain why I continue retaining water and my breasts keep feeling tender. She suggested to begin taking DIM daily to help balance my levels. Am I on a safe route?
Are you balancing it with progesterone and testosterone?
How do I go about finding a Doctor Who will test me to see if I'm able to take HRT?
I'm taking oral estradiol as I was told it has better protection for the heart. Is this correct? I was using the patch.
Is 100 mg progesterone micro a low dose? I had side effects to the 200 mg 25 years ago. Will I have the same reason with the 100 mg dose? I'm nervous about starting the estradiol patch because of the progesterone side effect I had before. Are there other methods of progesterone I can take?