In the final episode of this series, Matt and Kim Celmer discuss women’s hormonal health, from its effects to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including benefits, risks, and links to breast cancer. They share tips for talking to healthcare providers and explore future directions for hormone research. Kim Celmer, ND, is a naturopathic doctor specializing in integrative care, with expertise in hormone health, digestive wellness, and chronic disease management.

Key Points:

This episode explores hormonal health, focusing on women's wellness and the importance of monitoring hormone levels. It explores hormone replacement therapy (HRT), focusing on its advantages, potential drawbacks, and tailored approaches to managing hormonal shifts at different life stages.

• Hormonal Health Awareness: The podcast underscores the importance of understanding hormonal changes in women, particularly starting around age 35. It discusses perimenopause, fertility decline, and the early signs of hormonal imbalances that often go unnoticed.
• Key Hormones and Testing: The discussion emphasizes the need to monitor hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. It highlights the importance of measuring free vs. total testosterone levels for a more precise evaluation of hormonal health.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A deep dive into HRT as a tool for managing symptoms and reducing risks associated with hormonal decline. The benefits discussed include improving bone density, heart health, and cognitive function, while also considering its limitations and tailored application.
• Common Misconceptions: The episode debunks long-standing myths linking HRT to breast cancer, referencing updated research and clarifying misunderstandings from the Women’s Health Initiative study.
• Tailored Treatments: A range of individualized strategies is explored, including lifestyle modifications like dietary adjustments and resistance training, as well as delivery methods for hormone therapy such as creams, injections, and subdermal pellets.
• Starting Conversations: Practical advice is offered on initiating discussions with healthcare providers about hormonal health. The episode also stresses the importance of finding knowledgeable and supportive doctors for personalized care.