The Hormone Solution Podcast with Karen Martel: Timing is Everything: The Ultimate Guide to Starting HRT for Long-Term Health

Timing is Everything: The Ultimate Guide to Starting HRT for Long-Term Health

Aug 3, 2024

Today’s discussion breaks down the critical importance of starting HRT at the optimal time to manage the four phases of hormonal loss from age 35 and beyond. We explore how factors like hysterectomy, thyroid medication, and even COVID-19 vaccination can influence menopause onset, emphasizing a personalized approach to HRT. We close look at the benefits of progesterone cycling, the intricacies of thyroid and testosterone medications, and the essential role of estradiol in maintaining long-term health.

In this episode:

Understanding the four phases of hormonal loss.
How progesterone can help manage symptoms without disrupting estrogen production.
Why testing progesterone levels is important, even with irregular cycles.
How thyroid and testosterone medications impact natural hormone production.
Why maintaining physiological doses of thyroid and testosterone is vital.
How early intervention with progesterone can be breast-protective.
Why the uterus is significant beyond childbearing, and the consequences of a hysterectomy.
How estrogen replacement therapy, particularly estradiol, ensures long-term health.
Why birth control pills might not be the best choice for necessary estrogen.
How estradiol helps maintain bone density, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
Why a fear-based narrative around estrogen needs to be challenged.
How over-the-counter hormone creams can be an accessible solution.
How genetics can affect the severity of symptoms experienced during hormonal changes.
Why progesterone loss can lead to symptoms like heavy periods and thyroid issues.
How progesterone cycling can avoid disrupting estrogen production.
How stress, trauma, and dietary habits can influence menopause onset.
Why understanding hormonal feedback loops is critical for medication and hormone therapy.
Why women should be proactive and listen to their bodies for HRT decisions.