In her expert column for HOT! Magazine, functional-medicine practitioner Dr. Simone Silver addresses the common confusion surrounding Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). She cuts through the overwhelming array of choices, from tablets and creams to patches and gels, by providing a clear framework for making an informed decision.
Dr. Silver begins by clarifying a fundamental distinction: the difference between natural and synthetic hormones. She explains that natural hormones, used in body-identical MHT, are structurally identical to those produced by the ovaries (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone). In contrast, synthetic hormones are structurally different. This crucial difference can influence how the body responds to treatment and manages side effects.
The article emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Silver stresses that selecting the right MHT is a personalized process that must be undertaken with a healthcare provider. This decision should be based on a comprehensive review of a woman’s personal medical history, psychological profile, and lifestyle preferences.
The ultimate goal, she notes, is to find the preparation that optimizes health benefits such as relieving menopausal symptoms and protecting long-term health while minimizing potential risks. Dr. Silver’s core message is one of empowerment: by understanding the nuances of hormone types and delivery methods, women can confidently partner with their practitioners to choose the MHT strategy that is safest and most effective for their individual needs.
Original Article: The MHT Update by Dr. Simone Silver, published in HOT! Magazine, 2023.
