633: How to Thrive in Menopause with Dr. Liz Lyster
Aug 14, 2024
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Dr. Liz Lyster, an OB-GYN with over 25 years in hormonal health, dives into the realities of menopause. She reveals how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) myths, especially regarding breast cancer risks, distort women's choices. The discussion highlights the benefits of balanced hormones for sleep and bone health. Liz advocates for a patient-centered approach and discusses various HRT options, while redefining menopause as a growth opportunity. She also emphasizes the nutritional benefits of soy and the importance of fitness in enhancing health during this life stage.
Understanding the misconceptions around Hormone Replacement Therapy can empower women to make informed health decisions during menopause.
Viewing menopause as a period of growth rather than decline can lead to proactive health management and improved overall quality of life.
Deep dives
The Misconceptions Surrounding Menopause
Common misconceptions about menopause often depict it as a negative phase characterized by symptoms like hot flashes, weight gain, and a decline in health. However, this perspective misses the opportunity to view menopause as a significant period of reevaluation and growth. By shifting the narrative, individuals can embrace menopause as a time for empowerment and proactive health management. Recognizing the value of hormone replenishment and informed choices can lead to a better quality of life during this transition.
Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
The fear surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is largely driven by outdated studies that misrepresented the risks associated with hormone use. New insights reveal that the risks associated with HRT, particularly regarding breast cancer, are often misinterpreted due to confusion over relative versus absolute risk. Proper understanding of these statistics can empower women to make informed decisions about their health without undue fear. By utilizing bioidentical hormones and newer delivery methods, women can safely benefit from HRT to improve their quality of life.
Personal Choices and Quality of Life
Navigating personal health choices, especially concerning menopause, often reflects a broader societal trend where women may suffer in silence while men seek treatment more readily. The conversation stresses the importance of prioritizing one's own health and the implications of not addressing hormonal imbalances. By choosing to manage symptoms effectively, individuals can enhance their overall quality of life and maintain their responsibilities toward family and community. Prioritizing hormonal health is not just a personal decision but one that can have far-reaching positive effects on one’s life.
Evolving Perspectives on Aging and Health
As lifespans increase, the importance of addressing health concerns related to aging is more relevant than ever. Women who previously may have felt alone in managing hormone-related issues are now encouraged to seek and share solutions that allow them to thrive. A holistic approach that combines various treatment options can lead to improved overall health, including better bone density and heart health. This shift in perspective encourages individuals to actively engage in their health as they age, promoting a vibrant and fulfilling later life.
Despite the obvious fact that every woman will experience menopause, support and education on the topic remains embarrassingly sparse. Worse still, misinterpreted studies have left many fearful of hormone replacement therapy and determined to simply white knuckle their way through this transition. My guest on this week’s podcast is an OB-GYN specializing in women’s hormonal health, who’ll help you understand your options.
Listen and learn:
Why the breast cancer risk of HRT was misinterpreted and remains a false boogeyman
How balanced hormones can improve sleep, preserve bone mass, and even provide cardioprotective benefits
The reality of patches, creams, sublingual tablets, and ingestions
Dr. Liz Lyster is a board-certified OB/GYN with over 25 years of experience specializing in hormonal health, wellness, and longevity. She is an acclaimed speaker and author of Go For Great! and Dr. Liz's Easy Guide to Menopause.