Progress Your Health Podcast

Can You Take HRT If You’ve Had Endometriosis? | PYHP 167


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In this episode, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki respond to a great listener question from April, who’s navigating hormone replacement therapy (HRT) while dealing with a history of endometriosis, polyps, and chronic cramps

April’s experience is all too familiar: spotting, cramping, hormone experimentation, and the frustrating search for symptom relief. So, can women with endometriosis safely use HRT—especially estrogen? 

The answer: Yes, but it has to be customized. 

�� In this episode, we cover: 

  • Why HRT is absolutely possible for women with endometriosis—but must be individually tailored 
  • The difference between static vs. rhythmic dosing and why rhythmic HRT may be better tolerated for some women 
  • Dr. Davidson’s personal story of having endometriosis, cysts, and polyps—and how she now uses rhythmic dosing herself without flaring 
  • The important role of progesterone in managing endometriosis and minimizing estrogen reactivity 
  • How to approach spotting, cramping, and cyst formation during HRT ● Why estrogen isn’t the enemy—but why it must be dosed thoughtfully 
  • ✉️ Here’s April’s full question: 

    “Hi—I am a 57-year-old woman in perimenopause. My question is: is it possible for women with endometriosis or adenomyosis to do HRT? 

    I started oral progesterone 2 years ago, got as high as 300 mg, but didn’t get much symptom resolution. Switched to a progesterone troche—50 mg morning and night. About 3 months ago, I added testosterone (0.25 mg once daily, 5 days/week) and

    Biest 80/20 (1 ml daily, can go up to 2 ml). 

    Everything was good for a while, but now the cramping and spotting have returned. I’ve had heavy bleeding as long as I can remember. My main complaint is menstrual cramps throughout the month—not just during my period. I do not have fibroids, but I’ve had many cysts and polyps over the years and have had many ultrasounds and transvaginal ultrasounds because of this.” 

     

    If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.

     

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      Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

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      Progress Your Health PodcastBy Dr Valorie Davidson and Dr Robert Maki