HRT and Menopause: What Does the Science Actually Say?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is everywhere right now, but what does the science actually say about HRT for menopause and perimenopause? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, Trace Dominguez separates the evidence from the hype around one of the most debated topics in women’s health. Dr. Elizabeth Lapeyre, a board-certified OB-GYN and menopause specialist, explains what happens to estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause and menopause, which symptoms hormone therapy can help, and how the risks and benefits of HRT have changed as the science has evolved. We look at the history of the Women’s Health Initiative study, why its findings had such a lasting impact on how people viewed HRT, and why details like the type of hormone, how it’s delivered, when treatment begins, and a person’s health history matter. Plus, Pilar Guzman of Oprah Daily and CeCe Moreno of Silver Sister Says share their perspectives on why menopause is finally getting more attention, and why there’s still a lot we don’t know. HRT isn't simply all good or all bad. So what does the evidence really tell us?