Hormone therapy doesn’t have to be confusing, scary, or controversial.

In this powerful episode of The Healing Catalyst, Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh sits down with OB-GYN and menopause expert Dr. Suzanne Gilberg to bring clarity, compassion, and science to one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health. Together, they unpack the myths born from the Women’s Health Initiative study, reveal what the science really says, and explore how hormones impact everything from brain health to bone strength.

Dr. Gilberg also shares her personal experience with breast cancer and why she ultimately chose to go on hormone therapy — a story that will surprise and empower you.

This episode goes beyond hormones. You’ll hear how lifestyle, sleep, nutrition, and stress interact with HRT; how ancient wisdom like Ayurveda reframes menopause as a sacred transformation rather than a decline; and why curiosity, community, and connection are powerful medicine for this stage of life.

If you’ve ever wondered whether hormone therapy is safe, if you’ve “missed the window,” or how to navigate menopause with clarity and confidence — this conversation is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• (03:55) What hormone therapy really is — and why it matters
• (10:54) The truth behind the Women’s Health Initiative study
• (17:04) When to start HRT, who it’s for, and if it’s ever too late
• (21:05) How to weigh real risks and benefits with confidence
• (28:44) The role of lifestyle, gut health, sleep, and stress
• (31:06) How Ayurveda reframes menopause as a sacred transition
• (43:31) Why community and connection are powerful medicine
• (47:41) Dr. Gilberg’s self-care rituals and her message for every woman

This episode blends modern medical science with ancient wisdom to bring clarity, compassion, and confidence to menopause. Discover the truth about hormone therapy, the integrative self-care practices that support it, and the mindset shifts that can turn this transition into a powerful new beginning.

About Dr. Suzanne Gilberg:

A disruptor, healer, educator and fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Suzanne Gilberg earned her medical degree from USC in 1996 and completed her OB/GYN residency at Cedars-Sinai. Board certified in integrative and holistic medicine, she also holds a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist degree. Dr. Gilberg is Chief Medical Correspondent for The Drew Barrymore Show and author of Menopause Bootcamp. She serves as Chief Clinical Officer at Monarch, transforming women’s healthcare, and co-founded Cedars-Sinai’s Green Committee. Based in Beverly Hills, she’s committed to healing individuals, families, communities, and the planet.

Resources Discussed:

• Monarch MD (telehealth)
• Menopause Bootcamp (book)
• Menopause Bootcamp (course)
• Estrogen Matters (book)

Connect with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg:

• Instagram: @askdrsuzanne
• Website: https://thedrsuzanne.com/ and https://gilberg.monarchmd.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/askdrsuzanne
• TikTok: @askdrsuzanne
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/askdrsuzanne
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/askdrsuzanne

Connect with Dr. Avanti:

• Subscribe, Rate & Review The Healing Catalyst podcast
• Listen to more episodes on your favorite platform
• Watch clips and past episodes on YouTube
• Follow Dr. Avanti on Instagram at @avantikumarsingh 
• Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter 
• Leave a voice message for Dr. Avanti
• Explore Arvasi — Dr. Avanti’s Ayurvedic platform. Rooted in tradition. Backed by science. Personalized for you. myarvasi.com

Resources:

• Order Dr. Avanti’s books:  The Longevity Formula, The Health Catalyst
• Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz
• Explore more at avantikumarsingh.com

The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Podcast episode production by Dante32.