Hormones control everything from your mood to your metabolism, and when they're out of balance, quality of life can suffer dramatically. In this eye-opening conversation with Dr. Julie Gould, OB-GYN, we explore the world of hormone replacement therapy and its potential to transform women's health.
Dr. Gould brings clarity to a field often clouded by misconceptions, particularly around cancer risks. She explains how the medical community has dramatically revised its understanding since the Women's Health Initiative study, with the North American Menopausal Society now stating they do not believe hormones cause cancer. For many women, this new understanding opens doors to treatment options that can address debilitating symptoms while potentially offering long-term health benefits.
Beyond just treating hot flashes (which aren't even the most common complaint), hormone therapy addresses a constellation of issues including sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, diminished libido, joint pain, and cognitive concerns. Dr. Gould walks through the various administration methods—from patches that bypass liver metabolism to gels, pills, rings, and more—helping listeners understand which options might work best for their unique situations.
Perhaps most surprising is Dr. Gould's discussion of testosterone in women. Most people don't realize women naturally have 10 times more testosterone than estrogen in their bodies, and when those levels decline, it can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and loss of vitality. Despite this, there are no FDA-approved testosterone products specifically for women in the US, though they exist in other countries.
This conversation represents a shift toward proactive health optimization rather than just treating diseases after they develop. Whether you're currently experiencing menopausal symptoms or simply want to understand what options might be available in the future, Dr. Gould provides the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about hormonal health at every stage of life.
Ready to learn more? Call Dr. Gould's office at 314-205-6788 to schedule a consultation and discover if hormone replacement therapy might be right for you.