More Good Days

EP 13 Perimenopause: What Every Woman Needs to Know About HRT and Hormone Health

More Good Days

Show Notes

Perimenopause can begin years before menopause—but many women don't realize what's happening to their bodies. In this episode, specialist gynecologist Dr. Natalia Novikova breaks down the science of perimenopause, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), helping separate evidence-based medicine from decades of fear and misinformation.

We explore how the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study changed public perception of HRT, why many women were left afraid of hormone therapy, and what newer research tells us today about risks, benefits, and individualized treatment. Dr. Novikova explains why perimenopause can start 7–15 years before menopause, the hormonal changes driving symptoms, and why blood tests often fail to provide clear answers.

She also discusses the most common symptoms women experience and how lifestyle factors—including exercise, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and weight management—form the foundation of treatment.

The conversation covers: What perimenopause really is

Early signs and symptoms to watch for

Why hormone levels fluctuate during perimenopause

The truth about HRT risks and breast cancer

Relative risk vs. absolute risk explained

Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone therapy

Transdermal estrogen and safer treatment approaches

Bioidentical vs. compounded hormones

Why testosterone injections can be problematic

Monitoring and follow-up during hormone therapy

Options for women with a history of breast cancer

How to find the right specialist and personalized treatment plan

If you're struggling with symptoms or looking for evidence-based information about perimenopause and hormone therapy, this episode provides practical guidance and expert insights to help you make informed decisions about your health.

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