In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the misunderstood world of hormones, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). From the truth about estrogen and progesterone to the myths around breast cancer and HRT, Dr Shauna Watts and expert voices unpack the science, the stigma, and the life-changing potential of hormone therapy.

We talk honestly about:

• What hormones really do beyond fertility and reproduction
• The difference between perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause
• Why women are often misdiagnosed or dismissed in midlife
• The truth about breast cancer risk and HRT
• How hormones affect brain health, mood, and Alzheimer’s risk
• Why suicide peaks in midlife women and how HRT can help
• Practical ways HRT is prescribed (patches, gels, tablets)
• The myths that still hold women back from treatment
• Why it’s time to rethink what’s “natural” when it comes to menopause
• The empowering role of evidence in making informed choices

Whether you’re struggling with perimenopause symptoms, debating HRT, or just curious about the science behind women’s midlife health—this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need to make informed decisions.

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Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.

Mental Health Advisory: This episode includes discussion of suicide and mental health, which may be distressing for some listeners. If you are struggling, please reach out for support. In Australia, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or if you’re elsewhere, contact your local crisis service.

00:00:00 - Introduction: Hormones & HRT

00:00:43 - What Are Hormones?

00:01:01 - Hormones in Women’s Health

00:02:07 - Common Hormone Myths

00:03:00 - Estrogen’s Role in the Brain

00:04:12 - HRT vs. Other Treatments

00:06:08 - Menopause vs. Perimenopause

00:09:03 - Spotting Perimenopause Symptoms

00:12:52 - Why Doctors Miss Symptoms

00:15:57 - HRT Explained Simply

00:17:31 - Estrogen Therapy Options

00:22:17 - Progesterone Therapy Options

00:24:40 - Progesterone Sensitivity Signs

00:29:19 - HRT & Breast Cancer Myths

00:30:27 - Debunking Cancer Fears

00:31:37 - Psychology of HRT Resistance

00:35:26 - Menopause & the “Natural” Myth

00:37:10 - Breaking Menopause Taboos

00:39:28 - Estrogen & Alzheimer’s Risk

00:44:44 - Breast Cancer Fears

00:47:55 - Menopause & Mental Health

00:52:15 - Why HRT Matters

00:55:12 - Breast Cancer Risk by Age

01:01:14 - Estrogen for Cancer Survivors

01:02:29 - WHI Study Impact

01:03:18 - Estrogen & Heart Health

01:05:44 - Informed HRT Decisions

* Hormone replacement therapy

* HRT myths and facts

* Menopause support

* Perimenopause explained

* Estrogen and brain health

* Progesterone benefits

* Testosterone in women

* HRT and breast cancer risk

* Natural vs. bioidentical hormones

* Cognitive decline and estrogen

* Alzheimer’s prevention in women

* Midlife women’s health

* Menopause anxiety and depression

* Suicide risk in menopause

* Estrogen Matters book review

* Women’s heart health and hormones