Science journalist Bianca Nogrady and host Jane Lee discuss the uncertainties in treating perimenopausal symptoms. They explore the evolving conversation around menopause, the challenges women face during perimenopause, the decision-making process of menopausal hormone therapy, and the importance of workplace support for menopausal individuals.
Perimenopause involves fluctuating hormone levels leading to symptoms like hot flushes and joint pains, while treatments like Hormone Replacement Therapy aim to stabilize estrogen levels.
Considerations for perimenopause treatments include altering biochemistry, costs, and risks, highlighting the importance of workplace accommodations for better support.
Deep dives
Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause, the stage preceding menopause, involves fluctuating hormone levels like estrogen leading to irregular and heavy periods. This phase, occurring typically in the 40s or 50s, marks the ovaries running out of eggs. Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, skin changes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and joint pains.
The Controversy Around Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) aims to stabilize declining estrogen levels during perimenopause. The Women's Health Initiative Study, though critiqued, found an increased risk of certain conditions with HRT. However, newer formulations offer lower doses and different administration methods, challenging the earlier study's implications and leading to uncertainty among doctors.
Impacts and Considerations for Perimenopausal Women
Perimenopause treatments pose considerations regarding altering biochemistry, costs, and potential risks, influencing personal choices. Workplace accommodations, such as flexible schedules and environmental adjustments, can significantly support individuals experiencing perimenopause symptoms. Understanding the holistic impact, social developments like flexible work arrangements and tailored workplace conditions are crucial for better support and awareness.
While conversations about menopause have changed and matured, the question of when and how to treat perimenopausal symptoms remains confusing. Science journalist Bianca Nogrady tells Jane Lee why there are still so many unknowns about when and how to treat them
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode