Research Insights:

Safety of menopausal hormone therapy after the age of 65

Previously, recommendations advised stopping hormone therapy by age 65. However, in 2022, this guidance was updated to emphasize shared decision-making between the woman and her healthcare practitioner to determine the most appropriate time to discontinue hormone therapy. A new study involving 10 million women aged 65 and older found that those who continued hormone therapy generally had a lower overall risk. However, women who were also taking progesterone or progestin to protect their uterus had an increased risk of breast cancer. The safest options for long-term hormone therapy were found to be low-dose transdermal (anything that gets absorbed through the skin such as a patch, spray, gel, or vaginal ring) estradiol and vaginal estrogen. The latter is especially safe, as it is known not to increase the risk of heart disease or cancer. Ultimately, these decisions should be individualized based on each woman's unique risk factors.

Favorite Drink:

Wyder's Cider

Rachel's pick:

Sober curious but not ready to take the plunge into an alcohol-free life? 

Only 4% alcohol, 14 g sugar, 150 calories. It’s a great option when people are drinking socially, and you are heading towards the alcohol-free way of life.

"A few of our favorite things:" 600 mg vaginal boric acid

Jean's pick:

I work with many women who experience recurrent vaginitis, which, while not life-threatening, can be highly distressing. The vaginal microbiome is far more complex than previously understood, and we're finally seeing more research in this area. The rationale for using vaginal boric acid is that in cases of recurrent vaginitis, opportunistic bacteria or yeast can form a biofilm on the vaginal walls. Boric acid can help break down this biofilm without harming healthy bacteria. Although the protocol is not standardized, the general recommendation is to insert boric acid vaginally at night for 2-3 weeks to treat an active infection. I also advise my patients to use one tablet vaginally after events that may increase their risk of bacterial vaginosis, such as after menstruation or intercourse.

What we are reading:

Body for Life for Women by Pamela Peeke MD

Anna's pick: Body for Life for Women by Dr. Pamela Peeke is a gem I came across at a little used bookstore on Medina square and I can't get enough of it! The newer version is available on amazon and looking up her website she is still out there living and teaching her methods. This is a gift for your girlfriends and daughters. Her methods arounds muscle, mouth, & mind in relation to hormones and the phases of woman's life are explained in such a way it all makes sense! Enjoy!