PHW Newsletter - Edition 18

A Word from Joleen Zivnuska, APRN

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women

Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause generally begins in a woman’s 40s and often lasts five to ten years. This phase is notorious for the month-to-month variability in estradiol and progesterone production. Menopause is defined as twelve consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, typically occurring in a woman’s early 50s. Women may spend up to one-third of their lives in this postmenopausal state.

The Health Risks of Hormonal Decline

After age 50, women face health risks closely tied to hormonal decline. By age 65, approximately 75% have hypertension. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality among women. Women over 50 account for 80% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Women are four times more likely than men to develop osteoporosis. About 30% of women die within a year of a hip fracture. Women experience anxiety and depression at four times the rate of men and are significantly more likely to suffer from autoimmune conditions.

Why HRT Matters

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be a vital tool in protecting long-term health. Estrogen and progesterone impact mitochondrial function, skin elasticity, joint comfort, gut health, and even the function of the eyes, mouth, and bladder. Decades of updated research now support the safe, responsible use of hormone therapy, particularly when tailored to individual needs.

What You Can Do

Choosing HRT is about more than symptom relief—it’s about protecting your health span. When used as part of a comprehensive lifestyle approach, hormone therapy can help women feel stronger, clearer, and more resilient. Lifestyle approaches include eating nutrient-dense foods, building muscle, getting consistent restorative sleep, and managing stress. At PHW, we offer a range of hormone therapy options tailored to each woman’s goals, preferences, and needs.