Menopause is a natural phase in women’s lives that has recently garnered increased attention, which has led to a surge in discussions about treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT). While HRT can effectively alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, it’s essential to approach these treatments with caution and informed understanding.
Additionally, the wellness industry has seen the rise of “longevity clinics,” offering various treatments aimed at promoting health and extending lifespan. While these centers provide services like diagnostic tests and therapies, accessibility and cost can be major barriers, and the efficacy of some treatments may not be fully substantiated by scientific evidence.
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, introduces a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Beyond the commonly acknowledged hot flashes and mood swings, women may experience less overt changes such as brain fog, dry eyes, joint pain, and anxiety. These manifestations are often subtle and can be misattributed to other causes, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment. Addressing these symptoms requires a thorough understanding of hormonal fluctuations and their systemic effects.
One current trend in treating menopause symptoms is the use of testosterone therapy in women. Some individuals report benefits like enhanced libido and cognitive function. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved testosterone for women, and comprehensive data on its long-term effects remain limited. Potential side effects include hair growth, acne, and mood changes, underscoring the importance of individualized medical supervision.
Despite the lack of FDA approval, some practitioners prescribe testosterone “off-label” to address concerns such as sexual dysfunction and energy levels. While anecdotal reports indicate positive outcomes, standardized dosing and long-term studies are still lacking. Women considering testosterone therapy should undergo lab testing and continuous monitoring to assess hormone levels and eliminate unwanted side effects.
The medical community is divided on the routine use of testosterone therapy for women. While some studies suggest potential benefits, concerns persist regarding side effects such as acne, hirsutism, voice deepening, and alterations in lipid profiles. Ultimately, the long-term safety of testosterone therapy in women has not been conclusively established, which has made individualized treatment plans and thorough risk-benefit analyses necessary.
Wellness experts like Tomo Marjanovic advocate for a nuanced approach to hormone therapy. Marjanovic, founder of Aspire Rejuvenation Clinic, emphasizes the importance of personalized care in addressing hormonal imbalances. He says that mainstream medicine often adopts a “cookie-cutter mentality,” prescribing identical treatments without considering individual differences.
Marjanovic points out that this approach overlooks factors such as body composition, activity level, and specific health goals, which are crucial in tailoring effective hormone therapies. He also says that hormone therapy should be seen as one component of a broader health strategy, incorporating proper nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being for sustainable results.
Marjanovic also stresses the significance of patient education and empowerment. He notes that many individuals are “caught up in that mainstream medicine model where it turns and burns,” receiving medications that address symptoms rather than underlying causes.
By focusing on optimizing hormones like testosterone, Marjanovic suggests that patients can alleviate multiple issues simultaneously, which reduces reliance on multiple medications. However, he warns that hormone optimization should not be driven by trends alone. Instead, patients should seek providers who prioritize data-driven, evidence-based treatments tailored to their individual physiology.
“If you Google hormone therapy, you’ll find misinformation like ‘testosterone therapy causes prostate cancer.’ But if that were true, every 15- to 25-year-old male would have prostate cancer because they have naturally high testosterone levels,” explains Marjanovic.
The conversation around hormone therapy, particularly testosterone use in women, is complex. While emerging insights offer promising avenues for enhancing women’s health, it is imperative to approach such therapies with caution. Comprehensive research, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing dialogue between patients and healthcare providers are essential to navigate the benefits and risks associated with hormone therapy effectively.As the field continues to evolve, the integration of personalized care models, as advocated by professionals like Marjanovic, may pave the way for more effective and patient-centered approaches to hormone therapy in women.
Written in partnership with Tom White
