The No.1 Menopause Doctor: They’re Lying To You About Menopause! Brand New Science! (Men Need To Listen Too!): Mary Claire Haver
Dec 18, 2023
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Mary Claire Haver, a menopause expert and bestselling author, sheds light on the often-misunderstood topic of menopause. She reveals the myths surrounding it and emphasizes the need for better education and support. Key topics include the importance of nutrition during hormonal transitions and the complexities of hormone replacement therapy. Haver also discusses the role of men in understanding menopause, the stigma surrounding it, and personal empowerment through health and fitness. Her insights aim to inspire open conversations and destigmatize women's health issues.
Many women suffer in silence during menopause due to a lack of awareness and support from the medical system and society.
Strength training and proper nutrition are essential in managing the symptoms of menopause and supporting overall health.
Open conversations about menopause, breaking the stigma, and prioritizing comprehensive care can improve women's experiences during this phase.
Deep dives
Menopausal symptoms and treatment rates
In 2023, 85% of women are suffering from menopausal symptoms, but only 10.5% are receiving treatment or therapy. Many women are unaware of the variety of symptoms associated with menopause, including brain fog, changes in sexual function, weight gain, and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. The risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections also increases during menopause. However, women often suffer in silence and are not receiving the support and treatment they need.
The importance of strength training and diet
Strength training is vital during menopause as it helps combat the loss of muscle mass and maintains functionality as women age. Prioritizing muscle strength over being skinny is key. Additionally, focusing on diet is crucial, paying attention to fiber intake, vitamin D levels, and maintaining a low inflammation diet. Proper nutrition plays a significant role in mitigating the symptoms of menopause and supporting women's overall health.
Misconceptions and challenges in menopause care
The medical system and society often let women down when it comes to menopause care. There is a lack of education and awareness surrounding menopause, resulting in women being dismissed or misdiagnosed. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one potential treatment, yet many women are hesitant due to misleading information and fear of increased breast cancer risk. However, studies demonstrate that HRT can be safe and effective, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and providing relief from menopausal symptoms.
The need for better support and open conversation
Menopause affects a significant portion of the female population, with over 1.2 billion women currently experiencing it. Unfortunately, many women lack information, support, and open conversation about menopause. Breaking the stigma and encouraging discussions about menopause is crucial to ensure women feel heard and normalized. It is also essential for the medical system to prioritize menopause care and provide comprehensive support, including hormone therapy, nutritional guidance, and mental health support.
Women's Hormone Therapy and the Importance of Advocacy
Testosterone and FDA-approved medications like Addie and Vilese can be helpful for women experiencing menopause symptoms. However, testosterone therapy for women is not FDA-approved, which often requires compounding medication at a local pharmacy. The lack of easily accessible menopause care is a significant issue, leading women to travel long distances to find adequate treatment. Advocacy and self-education are crucial for women to navigate the complexities of menopause and explore alternative options such as exercise, nutrition, stress reduction, and sleep improvement.
Addressing Menopause and Supporting Partners
Supportive partners play a vital role in recognizing and addressing menopause symptoms. Normalizing conversations about menopause helps remove the stigma and allows partners to gently bring up the topic. Supporting women during this phase involves understanding the physiological changes and seeking proper healthcare. Open dialogue and joint visits to healthcare providers can foster a greater understanding of menopause and how to manage its symptoms. Additionally, men do not go through a similar process as women, but potential hormone imbalances can be addressed through testosterone supplementation for men with low levels.
If you enjoy hearing about promoting female health and the power of nutrition, check out my conversation with the nutritional and functional health expert, Dr Mindy Pelz, which you can find here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2mQOGzHtQc
When does menopause start? What is menopause? How does menopause affect my marriage? Over 1.2 billion women are going through menopause right now. This leading expert uncovers the myths that have dominated our understanding for years.
Dr Mary Claire Haver is a menopause expert, OBGYN, bestselling author and internet personality. She specialises in women's health, focusing on empowering and educating everyone to understand women’s bodies. In 2018, she founded 'The Galveston Diet', which became a bestseller in 2023. The Mary Claire Wellness Clinic, established in 2021, has helped to empower and educate thousands of women. Her new book is out May 2024 and provides everything a woman needs to know to thrive during her hormonal transition and beyond.
