HRT: The Question I get Asked the Most
Menopause has a way of shaking up your life in ways you don’t expect. For me, it wasn’t just about the hot flashes or the brain fog—it was the overwhelming sense of losing myself. I didn’t feel like the person I once was. Some people choose not to take HRT. Other cannot. After researching my options, I made the personal decision to go on HRT, and I want to share my experience in hopes that it might help you feel less alone in your own journey.
A Personal Choice
First, let me say this: deciding whether or not to take HRT is deeply personal. Every woman’s menopause experience is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. For me, HRT offered the opportunity to address some of the acute physical and emotional symptoms I was facing, including mood swings, sleepless nights, and debilitating fatigue. My symptoms came on suddenly and severely at a time when no one else in my circle could relate to what was happening to me. Taking the HRT immediately offered relief.
This is important:
The WHI (Women's Health Institute ) Study released in 2002 was debunked for many reasons. It suggested that there was increased risk with cancer and HRT but as it turns out, it was a skewed study. Here is more. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3963523/
Not a Magic Bullet
That said, HRT wasn’t a cure-all. While it immediately softened many of the intense symptoms I was dealing with, it wasn’t until I committed to a consistent routine of healthy eating, stress management, exercise, and sleep hygiene that I began to feel like myself again. HRT gave me the relief I needed to start building those habits, but the real transformation came from addressing my overall lifestyle.
Women's studies have been severely neglected. I personally believe menopausal women are still one of the most underserved communities in our medical system. Here is a great article from Time magazine that may shock you.
What Worked for Me
Diet: Focusing on nutrient-dense, whole foods that support hormone health, such as leafy greens, healthy fats, and plenty of protein, made a huge difference. I’ve talked about this so much on my instagram. I have also shared so much in my Meals for Menopause Guide Book.
Exercise: Incorporating strength training and mindful movement like yoga helped me regain energy and feel stronger in my body. Your body needs muscle.
Stress Management: Daily mindfulness practices, whether through active mindfulness, journaling, or simply taking a (weighted vest) walk, became my anchor during the chaos.
Sleep: Setting a consistent bedtime routine and prioritizing rest helped me recover and manage my energy levels. In this whole system I honestly don’t know which is most important. They all need to be incorporated together to create your new equilibrium.
Finding Balance
HRT played an important role in my journey, but it was just one piece of the puzzle. When combined with lifestyle changes, it helped me not only manage my symptoms but also reclaim my sense of identity and joy.
If you’re considering HRT or exploring other options for menopause relief, know this: you’re not alone. There’s no right or wrong answer—just the path that feels best for you and your body.
A New Chapter
It’s time for us to start seeing menopause as an opportunity rather than something that should be shameful or hidden. The minute I started to embrace this transition and all its possibilities a new freedom started to emerge.
With an open mind I know we can navigate these life changes in a way that leaves us feeling empowered and celebrated. When you are stricken with hot flashes, experiencing uncontrollable rage or suffering from sleepless night, you are just not capable of being your best self. My hope is to encourage a narrative around perimenopause and menopause, so that all women can have access to the understanding, support, and respect they deserve during this time.
Let’s keep the conversation going! I’d love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions you have about navigating menopause.
FREE Guide!
Discover the best superfoods and how to use them to help ease your menopause symptoms.