Vanessa Walker’s Post

For years, women have been led astray regarding the safety and benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). The landscape of this field is rapidly evolving, particularly in recent months, as new research challenges long-held misconceptions. The time has come to shed light on the truth and empower women to make informed decisions about their menopausal journey. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study, published over two decades ago, sparked widespread fear and confusion surrounding hormone therapy. Its findings were swiftly generalized, leading many to believe that all forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) posed significant cancer risks. However, this broad generalization failed to account for the distinct nature of bioidentical hormones, which are structurally identical to those produced by the human body. Contrary to the prevailing narrative, emerging evidence suggests that BHRT may offer a safer and more effective alternative to traditional HRT. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential benefits of bioidentical hormones in alleviating menopausal, dementia and cognitive decline symptoms, improving volume of the brain, promoting cardiovascular health, and maintaining bone density, among other advantages. Notably, the ideal time to consider BHRT is during the perimenopausal period or at the onset of menopause. This critical window presents an opportunity to harness the protective effects of bioidentical hormones, potentially mitigating the risks associated with estrogen deficiency and the accompanying physiological changes. It is crucial for women to engage in open and informed discussions with their healthcare providers, exploring the latest research and weighing the potential risks and benefits of BHRT. By dispelling the myths and misconceptions that have long plagued this field, women can make empowered decisions regarding their menopausal journey and overall well-being. #hormones #hrt #bioidenticalhormonetherapy #bhrt #estrogen #womenover40 #perimenopause #menopause #womenover50 #drlukemartindc #drrogue

Excited to share our latest research recently published in Hormones and Behavior! In this study, titled "Oral administration of ethinyl estradiol and the brain-selective estrogen prodrug DHED in a female common marmoset model of menopause: Effects on cognition, thermoregulation, and sleep," our team explored how hormonal interventions impact critical aspects of health during menopause. Using a female common marmoset model, we examined how different forms of estrogen therapy affect: 🛌 Sleep – One of the most affected and often underappreciated aspects of menopause. 🔬 Cognition – How memory and learning are supported during hormonal changes. 🌡️ Thermoregulation – The biological mechanisms tied to hot flashes and body temperature control. Our findings not only deepen our understanding of estrogen’s role in brain health and aging but also provide insights into more targeted approaches for addressing menopausal symptoms. This work reflects the incredible effort and collaboration across disciplines, and I’m deeply grateful to my co-authors and colleagues for making it possible. I hope these findings inspire more conversation around women’s health and aging research! PMID: 39721460 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2024.105670

We're halfway through our series with #DrDismissive, who has a "suggestion" for me for my brain fog concerns. Go ahead and watch. Again while the video is meant to be a satire, brain fog is no joke. Turns out that your brain goes through A LOT when you're in the #womenover40. But in many cases, we're told that "it's in our head" and that there is no science to back it up. Well as it turns out, science does back this up and we need more research to get into this a bit more. In this past week, Lisa Mosconi, who is an Associate Professor of neuroscience in neurology and radiology, and director of the Women’s Brain Initiative at Weill Cornell Medicine, completed a study on menopause and brain health in Scientific Reports. It sheds new light on how menopause affects the brain. The research, conducted with 54 healthy women aged 40-65, used advanced brain imaging techniques to explore changes in estrogen activity during menopause. Key Findings: 1. Estrogen Receptor Changes: As women go through menopause, their brains produce more estrogen receptors. This seems to be a way for the brain to compensate for the lower levels of estrogen, a hormone that plays a vital role in many brain functions. 2. Link to Symptoms: The study found that higher levels of these receptors were associated with common menopausal symptoms like memory problems, mood swings, and anxiety. This suggests that these brain changes might be behind some of the cognitive and emotional challenges women face during menopause. 3. Implications for Therapy: Traditionally, it was believed that hormone therapy for menopause had to start early to be effective. However, this study indicates that the brain continues to need estrogen even years after menopause begins. This could mean that hormone therapy might still be beneficial later on than previously thought. 4. Brain Adaptability: Despite the changes brought on by menopause, the brain shows a remarkable ability to adapt. For instance, increases in blood flow to certain areas help keep the brain functioning well even as it undergoes these hormonal shifts. Just remember, #itsnotinyourhead. #justgolong

A groundbreaking new research study has just been published in the Menopause Journal, and it's turning old assumptions about menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) on their head—especially for women beyond age 65. This study delves deep into the effects of MHT, considering different types, routes, and doses. It's a game-changer, debunking outdated beliefs and providing fresh insights into women's health as they age. Don't miss out on this eye-opening research! Check out the full study here: https://lnkd.in/eZ36NuJK Spread the word and let's embrace the latest in women's health knowledge! 💪 #DebunkingMyths #WomensHealth #MenopauseResearch"#WomensHealth"

Bone health - just because we are women Osteoporosis is a prevalent bone condition that commonly impacts women post-menopause. During this phase, it is crucial to identify factors that elevate the risk of fractures and to implement dietary and lifestyle modifications to mitigate these risks. Medical professionals suggest that certain women may require pharmacological intervention if they are significantly predisposed to developing osteoporosis or sustaining fractures. Lifelong management of osteoporosis is essential for affected women. As they age, they must engage in ongoing treatment decisions, which should be made collaboratively with their healthcare providers or bone health specialists, ensuring a personalised approach to their care. In addition to traditional medication, there is an innovative option to enhance bone density: Redox signaling molecules. These molecules, produced by the mitochondria within our cells, play a pivotal role in identifying and repairing or replacing damaged cells. Given that our bones, like all bodily tissues, are composed of cells, these molecules are vital in maintaining the strength and integrity of our bones, as well as all organs and systems. Regrettably, by the age of 50, our production of these signaling molecules diminishes by half, making it imperative to supplement them to promote better health and vitality. This is particularly relevant for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. For over two years, I've been enhancing my health with Redox Signaling Molecules, and the results have been truly remarkable. It also improved Dawn’s bone health. (Watch this short video below.) Are you concerned about the health issues that hormonal imbalances can bring, especially as you age or go through menopause? If you're striving for peak health and want to alleviate menopausal discomfort, let's talk. What have you got to lose? Simply comment 'strong' below, and I'll send you a message. 😊 #bonehealth #menopausesymptoms

Real talk happening here with a bit of vulnerability... Have you recently thought, "jeez, WTAF is going on with my memory? Do I have early-stage dementia or something?" Well I definitely have felt this while going through menopause. It's definitely been shocking and a bit scary at times to think that this could be "a thing". And this is exactly the kind of stress that can contribute to #burnout - thinking something is "wrong" with you and it's your fault. Fortunately I have been able to chat with my doctor about this, but I know not everyone has an empathetic healthcare provider. Lots of women have a provider similar to #DrDismissive. The study referenced below by Go Long can be a game changer in #womenshealth but more funds need to be dedicated here both privately and publicly. Here are some key takeaways from the study: - Menopause and Brain Health: The brain actively tries to adapt to the drop in estrogen during menopause, which helps explain some of the symptoms women experience. - Potential for Hormone Therapy: There might be more flexibility in timing hormone treatments to help alleviate menopausal symptoms and support brain health. - Understanding Symptoms: Recognize that symptoms like brain fog and mood changes have a biological basis. Seek help from your doctor and if you don't know the questions to ask your doctor, ask me. Just remember, #itsnotinyourhead. #justgolong

Findings from the study were. 1: Estrogen works by interacting with estrogen receptors. Previous theories were that these receptors turn off in the brain after menopause. This study showed, however, that women’s brains actually have MORE receptors, not less. The brain essentially is trying to capture as much estrodiol as possible. 2: The finding of ER’s (estrogen receptors) remain active for up to a DECADE post-menopause-along with ER elevations during perimenopause-hints that the “window of opportunity” for estrogen therapy may be greater than once thought. 3: Blood tests are inadequate predictors of menopausal symptoms-or if a woman is menopausal in the first place. Instead brain ER levels predicted menopausal status with 100% accuracy. Please get in contact if you’re unsure about this stage of life, the rumoured risks and benefits of HRT, or just feeling not quite right. And I can help. @menopausefact.notfiction #menopausefact.notfiction @dr_mosconi #menopause #menopauseeducation #menopausesupport #menopausebrain

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can effectively improve symptoms associated with declining hormone levels during perimenopause, such as sleep disruptions, hot flashes and night sweats, weight gain, anxiety, decreased energy levels, and more. 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗥𝗧 As early as possible, once you are sure you are in perimenopause. Studies show that the earlier it is started, the better the disease prevention. You are in perimenopause once there are any changes to your menstrual cycle, you have any of the 35+ symptoms associated with perimenopause, or are over the age of 40 (some women may even enter perimenopause after the age of 35!). 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗥𝗧 Once started, HRT can be safely taken after menopause occurs and continued into the postmenopausal years. It is safe to take for the long term, and many women continue if they continue to feel well. It is best to discuss this with your healthcare practitioner before discontinuing use. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗥𝗧 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 Estrogen is replaced with topical estradiol and progesterone is best replaced with an oral micronized progesterone. Estradiol comes in gels, patches, and creams and can be used systemically or sometimes locally (as a vaginal cream for dryness and thinning of the vaginal tract). Newer formulations of HRT have also been shown to reduce the risk of more serious diseases (such as osteoporosis) and have not been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer or blood clots. 👉 Consult a healthcare practitioner specializing in women's hormonal health to determine the most suitable approach for your needs. Remember, no one-size-fits-all solution exists; personalized guidance is vital to finding the proper treatment. • • • #Perimenopause #HRT #HormonesForWomen #MenopauseSymptoms #Revivele

♀ Recent research from Peking University suggests that hormone therapy (HT) could slow biological aging in postmenopausal women. The study, which used data from over 117,000 participants, highlights that the timing and duration of HT play a crucial role in its effectiveness. As we continue to explore HT's benefits and risks, this research emphasizes the need for personalized assessments to optimize treatment outcomes for women’s health. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/ebfqhiap #HormoneTherapy #WomenHealth #Menopause

Women are at a higher risk for dementia than men, partly due to hormonal shifts during menopause. Studies show that starting hormone therapy early in menopause—especially estrogen-only therapy—could help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s. Timing, the type of hormones, and your individual health all make a difference. 🧠💡 Chat with your doctor to find out if hormone therapy might be a good option for you and how to support your brain health for the long run. #MenopauseAwareness #BrainHealth #DementiaPrevention #Menopause #MenoWell