Not All Estrogens Are Equal You may have heard that estrogen fuels breast cancer risk, but it’s more complicated than that.

Estrogen - whether made in the body or taken in externally from hormone therapy - is metabolized through pathways in the liver, forming estrogen metabolites. Estrogen metabolites interact with genetics, liver enzymes, antioxidants, and other biochemical pathways to ultimately influence breast cancer risk.

When we think about female hormones, estrogen and progesterone usually come to mind first. But here’s the thing—they’re only part of the story. If you’re experiencing period problems - yes, it MIGHT be your hormones. AND ALSO your hormones might be out of balance for other reasons.

When it comes to health, the thyroid often takes center stage. But rarely is a thyroid issue isolated to just the thyroid. The thyroid's function is intricately linked to other hormones produced in the brain, adrenal glands, ovaries, and pancreas.

Perimenopausal weight gain is a real thing.

This is a fact.

It's common for weight gain to start a few years before menopause, during the time known as perimenopause. Weight gain often continues at about the rate of 1.5 pounds each year as a woman goes through her 50s.

When I meet with women to discuss the potential risks and benefits of menopausal hormone therapy - fear of weight gain with estrogen therapy is common.

But is this fear valid?