In this episode, Dr Newson has a lively discussion with Heather Hirsch, the Clinical Programme Director for the Menopause and Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Heather was shocked to see, during her fellowship, that what was being taught about menopause principles and care was actually wrong and realised that menopause was the biggest gap in women’s healthcare across America.

The experts discuss the problem of unregulated compounded bioidentical hormones and the reasons why two thirds of American women use this type of non-approved hormone treatment, rather than FDA approved body identical HRT that is prescribed by doctors in the UK. They reflect on the shift away from using HRT over the last two decades, and the devastating consequences to women’s health because of this, and offer practical advice on how to educate other healthcare professionals to unlearn the pervasive myth that oestrogen is dangerous.

Heather’s three take away messages are:

1. Medical students should spend time with a menopause doctor and see how they help women
2. Menopause care is a team effort and a global effort; everyone has to come together
3. Tell a friend,  colleague or family member about evidence-based sources of menopause information such as podcasts, YouTube channels, or social media. Help spread the truth about HRT.

IG @hormone.health.doc

Website: heatherhirschmd.com

YouTube: Health by Heather Hirsch

Podcast: Women’s Health by Heather Hirsch