Menopause and Beyond: Reevaluating Hormone Therapy for Women Over 60
Menopause and Beyond: Reevaluating Hormone Therapy for Women Over 60
Many women believe it’s “too late” to start hormone therapy after age 60 — but new research says otherwise. According to Dr. Polly Watson of Menopause Rescue, the fears surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are often based on outdated studies using old formulations. Today’s bioidentical hormones, such as transdermal estradiol and oral micronized progesterone, are safer and more effective for symptom relief and long-term health.
“Hormones around the time of menopause transition are going to provide the greatest benefit for cardiovascular health, bone health, and brain health.”
Women over 60 may still experience hot flashes, night sweats, poor sleep, and bone loss — all of which can improve with modern HRT. Dr. Watson explains that estrogen supports bone strength, muscle repair, sleep quality, and brain health, helping women maintain vitality well into later life.
Watch The Conversation!
Many women believe it’s “too late” to start hormone therapy after age 60 — but new research says otherwise. According to Dr. Polly Watson of Menopause Rescue, the fears surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are often based on outdated studies using old formulations. Today’s bioidentical hormones, such as transdermal estradiol and oral micronized progesterone, are safer and more effective for symptom relief and long-term health.
“Hormones around the time of menopause transition are going to provide the greatest benefit for cardiovascular health, bone health, and brain health.” – Dr. Polly Watson
Women over 60 may still experience hot flashes, night sweats, poor sleep, and bone loss — all of which can improve with modern HRT. Dr. Watson explains that estrogen supports bone strength, muscle repair, sleep quality, and brain health, helping women maintain vitality well into later life.
Quotes:
- “Hormones around the time of menopause transition are going to provide the greatest benefit for cardiovascular health, bone health, and brain health.” – Dr. Polly Watson
- “Almost half of women are still symptomatic at that age. If we look at women who are in their 70s, 10 to 15% of them still have vasomotor symptoms.” – Dr. Polly Watson
- “One in two postmenopausal women will have an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. Let that sink in for a minute.” – Dr. Polly Watson
- “There is system-wide discouragement to prescribing hormones to women over 60, which is not evidence-based.” – Dr. Polly Watson
- “Withdrawal of hormones is followed by significant bone loss — after four years off, your bones look like you never took it.” – Dr. Polly Watson
Resources:
Disclaimer: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast#Disclaimer
Meet the host!
She looks forward to sharing her knowledge with you to help find a solution to address the imbalance in your system and restore your health.
Meet the host!
She looks forward to sharing her knowledge with you to help find a solution to address the imbalance in your system and restore your health.
Meet the Guest!
Kate Willis, NP-C, IFMCP is a virtual nurse practitioner for Hormone Wellness MD. She’s been working in women’s health for 15 years in the field of gynecologic oncology and sexual wellness.
In 2021, Kate received her certification through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), and is thankful for such solid and evidence-based training. She uses it daily in her care for patients as she works to address the root cause of disease and dysfunction in the body. As of 2024, she is also a Menopause Society Certified nurse practitioner who is ready to help with your perimenopause and menopause questions. Click here to become a patient!
