Lecture Notes: Navigating Menopause with Dr. Jennifer Berman

Key Speaker

• Dr. Jennifer Berman: Renowned urologist, sexual health expert, and women's wellness advocate.

Overview

• Discussion on menopause symptoms, hormone replacement therapy, and the challenges faced by women during menopause.

Symptoms of Menopause

• Weight gain around midsection
• Loss of muscle
• Brain fog
• Symptoms of hormone imbalance: moodiness, fatigue, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, sexual health issues, vaginal dryness, low libido
• Genitourinary symptoms: urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence

Current Medical State

• Lack of protocols for treating perimenopausal and menopausal women.
• Past misinformation linking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to breast cancer.
• Current need for women to self-advocate and find knowledgeable providers.

Menopause Biotype

• Testing available to predict symptoms and navigate menopause.
• Similar to a genetic test like 23andMe.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are crucial for treatment.
• Modern HRT uses bioidentical hormones (e.g., 17-beta estradiol and micronized progesterone).
• Testosterone is protective against breast cancer and promotes cognitive function.
• Delivery methods include transdermal options to avoid thromboembolic risks.

Benefits of HRT

• Alleviates menopause symptoms.
• Prevents diseases such as Alzheimer's, osteoporosis, breast cancer.
• Improves cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Testosterone in Women

• Important for libido, energy, and cognitive function.
• Not FDA approved for women, requiring compounding from pharmacies.

Challenges in HRT

• Medical community's lack of training in menopause treatment.
• Need for personalized treatment due to variations in women's hormonal needs.
• Insurance coverage issues lead to out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

Social and Cultural Aspects

• Stigma around menopause and hormone therapy.
• Movement driven by women and social media to change perceptions.

Additional Considerations

• Importance of mental health and self-care in menopause management.
• Lifestyle interventions, meditation, and spirituality can support overall health.

Resources

• Bioidentical hormone providers: BioTee can provide a list of doctors.
• Dr. Berman's website: BermanSexualHealth.com
• Dr. Berman's Instagram: @JenBermanMD

Conclusion

• Empowerment through information and self-advocacy.
• Importance of finding knowledgeable providers and personalizing care during menopause.