The Truth about Hormone Replacement Therapy and Breast Cancer | Ep 85

Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 50

Menopause isn’t a disease. So why does the world treat it like one? The whispers start early. Get ready—your body is about to betray you. The fear. The shame. The idea that once you hit a certain age, you’re less vibrant, less desirable, less… you. But what if that’s all a lie?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, a renowned OB-GYN, women’s health expert, and author of Menopause Bootcamp, to break down the myths, misconceptions, and truths about menopause. From the science behind hormonal changes to the emotional and societal impacts, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating—or preparing for—this life stage.

We explore why menopause isn’t a disease, how hormone therapy can be a game-changer, and why the fear of breast cancer shouldn’t overshadow the benefits of treatment. Plus, we tackle the buzzwords like “natural” and “bioidentical,” and discuss the role of lifestyle, diet, and community in thriving through menopause.

This isn’t just a conversation about hormones—it’s about reclaiming power, understanding our bodies, and embracing the wisdom that comes with age. Are you ready to redefine menopause? Let’s dive in!

About the Guest:

Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz is a board-certified OB-GYN, women’s health expert, and advocate for integrative medicine. She is the author of Menopause Bootcamp: Optimize Your Health, Empower Yourself, and Flourish as You Age and a frequent media contributor, including as the Chief Medical Correspondent for The Drew Barrymore Show. Dr. Suzanne is passionate about empowering women to take control of their health and embrace menopause as a transformative life stage.

You can find Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz here:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Book

Timestamps:

• (00:47) Introduction to Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz
• (01:46) What is perimenopause and menopause?
• (05:13) The wide-ranging symptoms of perimenopause
• (08:02) The rise of antidepressants during menopause
• (09:41) The truth about hormone therapy
• (20:23) When to start hormone therapy
• (25:33) Busting the biggest myths about breast cancer risk
• (27:59) Hormone therapy and osteoporosis
• (29:07) The overlooked cancer risks you should know about
• (32:52) Natural vs. Bioidentical Hormones: What’s the real difference?
• (39:42) Can lifestyle choices make menopause easier?
• (43:03) Menopause Boot Camp & what’s next on the journey

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: [e-mail]

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: [e-mail]

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.