In this episode, Dr. Maki and Dr. Davidson answer viewer comments from their YouTube channel, providing clarity and insight into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), uterine lining health, and vaginal estrogen options. They also touch on annual gynecological care and share a lighthearted moment with their furry companions. Topics Covered: How to identify uterine lining buildup while on static HRT. Differences between static HRT (no bleeding) and rhythmic HRT (cyclical bleeding). The importance of monitoring uterine lining thickness to prevent cancer risks. The role of transvaginal ultrasounds in checking uterine lining, ovarian cysts, fibroids, and polyps. Why current guidelines for Pap smears have changed, and what they do (and don’t) check. Estriol vs. estradiol: why some doctors prefer estriol for vaginal atrophy and urinary incontinence. How estriol can be a safer alternative for vaginal health and urinary stress incontinence. A shout-out to comments about Vivian, the podcast’s beloved standard poodle, and Bob, the Aussie mix. Episode Highlights: Why it’s essential to prevent uterine lining thickening on static HRT. The role of transvaginal ultrasounds in annual gynecological exams. How estriol can be a safer alternative for vaginal and urinary health. Viewer questions that sparked meaningful discussions. A fun behind-the-scenes look at the podcast’s four-legged “producers.” Listen now to gain a clearer understanding of HRT, uterine health, and vaginal estrogen safety. If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question. Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, we dive deep into why hormonal changes, stress, and nutrient deficiencies contribute to hair loss during menopause and the best ways to support regrowth naturally. What you can do about it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Hair Growth Cycle & How Menopause Disrupts It The Role of Estrogen, Progesterone & Androgens in Hair Thinning How Thyroid Function & Insulin Resistance Impact Hair Loss Nutritional Deficiencies That Contribute to Hair Shedding The Connection Between Stress, Cortisol, & Scalp Health Best Supplements & Natural Remedies to Regrow Thicker Hair Hormone Therapy (HRT) – Can It Help or Hurt Hair Growth? Key Takeaways: Estrogen & Progesterone Decline: Shortens the hair growth phase & weakens follicles DHT & Androgen Sensitivity: Can cause miniaturization & pattern hair loss Nutrient Deficiencies: Iron, Vitamin D, Zinc, & Omega-3s are crucial for healthy hair Chronic Stress & Cortisol Spikes: Can push hair into the shedding phase Scalp Health & Circulation: Poor blood flow reduces hair follicle nourishment Solutions We Discuss: DHT Blockers: Saw Palmetto, Pumpkin Seed Oil, Spironolactone Best Hair Growth Nutrients: Ferritin (Iron), Vitamin D, Zinc, Biotin, Omega-3s Stress Management Tips: Adaptogens, meditation, & lifestyle shifts HRT & Hair Loss: Understanding the right type of hormone therapy for you If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

One of our listeners: Can you take oral progesterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT) if you already have an IUD? This topic doesn’t have much research or widespread discussion, but it’s a question we hear frequently. Tammy’s situation is common, and we’re here to provide clarity and guidance. Topics Covered: Why might someone take progesterone HRT while using an IUD? Understanding estrogen dominance and its effects The differences between an IUD and oral progesterone Can too much estradiol cause uterine hyperplasia or bleeding? Types of estrogen HRT and how they interact with progesterone The benefits of adding progesterone HRT to your regimen If you’ve ever wondered about balancing hormone therapy with an IUD, this episode will provide practical insights and actionable advice to help you make informed decisions about your health. Tammy’s Question: “Hello! I searched for “can i take progesterone with my IUD”. I can’t find much, but I found your interview. I am a 53yo female, 8 years into menopause. I started HRT Oct of 2024 (200mg progesterone, 1.0 transdermal estradiol). I felt human again! I started bleeding alot (!!) January 2nd 2024. It lasted for 2 months before I called my doctor. A vaginal US revealed thickening of the uterine lining, with some polyps. I had a D&C with biopsy and placement of IUD in April 2024. I stayed on the patch, my progesterone was reduced to 100mg. I lost my sleep, and I have PMS like symptoms since, just like the time before Menopause. My OB suggested to remove the IUD (it’s only been 6 months!) and go back on 200mg. My worry is this: wouldn’t i start bleeding again? will my lining react again, and it was a little over $2000 to get all that done. Could i not just take 200mg and keep the IUD? I am trying hard to research this topic. there is very little info out there. Thank you so much for reading this.”   This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate HRT options and better understand how they can complement your hormonal health, even with an IUD. If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, we answer another insightful question from one of our favorite listeners, Victoria. She’s curious about the effects of taking bioidentical progesterone continuously throughout the cycle during perimenopause. Specifically, Victoria wonders if taking progesterone all month long would disrupt estrogen production during the first half of the cycle. Join us as we explore the hormonal shifts in perimenopause and how continuous progesterone use might affect estrogen levels. Topics Covered in This Episode: How hormones fluctuate throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle. Do women in perimenopause still experience hormonal cycling? Key hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause. Does taking progesterone influence estrogen production? The differences between premenopause, perimenopause, and menopause hormones.   Victoria’s Question “Hi again! I submitted a question about a week ago, but I’ve been thinking about something I didn’t ask the first time. In short: if you give a perimenopausal woman progesterone during the first part of her cycle (e.g., starting a 100mg capsule on day 6), wouldn’t that dampen estrogen production in the first half of the cycle? Would this be counterproductive? Or is that dose low enough that estrogen production remains the same with or without the progesterone? Thanks so much!”   What You’ll Learn This episode is perfect for women in perimenopause or anyone curious about hormone replacement therapy. You’ll gain a better understanding of: The delicate balance of estrogen and progesterone in the menstrual cycle. How perimenopause changes hormone production. Whether continuous progesterone use might be beneficial or disruptive during this transitional phase. Have a Question for Us? We’d love to hear from you! Visit our website and click on Ask the Doctor to submit your questions. Your question might be featured in a future episode! Don’t Miss an Episode Subscribe, rate, and review the Progress Your Health Podcast to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and insights for hormonal health.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, we dive into an important listener question from Amanda, a 57-year-old who is navigating uterine bleeding while on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Amanda is using a transdermal estrogen cream and a separate progesterone cream but is experiencing bleeding every three weeks. She’s concerned about the safety of her uterus, the risks of endometrial hyperproliferation, and how to balance her hormones without reducing the benefits of estrogen. We explore the root causes of uterine bleeding during menopause and share practical tips for balancing estrogen and progesterone to reduce bleeding, protect the uterus, and maximize the benefits of HRT. If you’re on HRT and struggling with similar issues, this episode is packed with insights tailored for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What hormones can trigger bleeding during menopause How HRT supports muscles, reduces inflammation, and improves bladder control. Understanding the 12-month rule for menopause diagnosis. Comparing oral progesterone and transdermal creams: Which is best for you? What is Biest, and how do you determine the right dosing and ratios? Strategies to balance estrogen and progesterone to stop bleeding. Rhythmic vs. static HRT approaches Why This Episode is a Must-Listen Whether you’re newly navigating menopause, adjusting to HRT, or dealing with side effects like uterine bleeding, this episode provides clear, actionable advice to help you make informed decisions about your hormonal health. Amanda’s Question: “Hello, thank you for your informative content. I’m using 80:20 biest 2x a day taking off Sunday plus 30 mg transdermal progesterone for the last 6 months and am doing pretty well. My numbers look good, no breast tenderness, muscles feel better, bladder stronger etc., however, I am having light bleeding for a few days every 3 weeks or so. I’m not yet menopausal but close as before hormones I did go 5 months without a period. I want to avoid any hyperplasia and am slightly concerned however I don’t think i can lower my dose of biest without negative side effects. Any advice would be helpful! I’m 57 years old. Thank you”   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to stay updated on the latest episodes!   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode, we address a question from “Victoria” (name changed for privacy), who is experiencing prolonged bleeding while undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Victoria is in perimenopause and is taking compounded T4/T3 thyroid medication and progesterone. Despite normal test results, she often has bleeding that lasts up to 14 days, and her menstrual cycles are becoming shorter. These symptoms are quite common during perimenopause or when HRT is not properly balanced. Additionally, Victoria is dealing with joint pain and inflammation and wonders if these issues could be related to her hormones. Topics Discussed: The relationship between perimenopause and HRT Causes of prolonged periods during perimenopause Managing menopausal bleeding with HRT Understanding estrogen dominance Is estrogen therapy suitable for perimenopausal women who are still menstruating? Optimal timing for progesterone HRT: continuous vs. cyclical use The connection between hormones, inflammation, and joint pain   Victoria’s Question: “Hi! Your podcast is awesome, thanks for making it available! I turned 50 four months ago. Still menstruating monthly – every 27-28 days (with one exception – see below). Generally feeling good – no hot flashes or night sweats that I can tell, sleeping 7-9 hours a night (might wake up once or twice on occasion but generally able to go back to sleep quickly). My brain is working fairly well and my mood is good. No vaginal dryness or libido issues so far. For reference, my mum had her very last period four months after she turned 54, and she has never ever had hot flashes (in case that’s useful). For the last two years I have been taking 100mg bio-identical progesterone from day 14 (sometimes I might start it on day 12 or 13 of my cycle if I feel PMS-like symptoms). I have also been taking 1,5 grain compounded thyroid for the last two years. I can honestly say the progesterone and the thyroid medication saved me from a lot of suffering I had started to experience 6 months before I started taking them: I had just turned 48 and I started to gain weight, couldn’t sleep, felt depressed and brain-fogged. After starting the progesterone capsule and the compounded thyroid medication I gradually returned to feeling normal again. Lately I have even managed to lose some of the weight I put on. My issues right now: My period, although still regular, is characterized by long bleeding. I can easily bleed for up to 14 days. Granted, the bleeding will lighten up after day 5 or 6 but it will continue for at least as many days, albeit light. And to cap it all, this month I finished bleeding on day 14 and started bleeding again on day 19 (this is the first time my cycle is that short for as long as I can remember). I do yearly vaginal ultrasound – all normal. My last one was in June this year. Questions: Could I manage the bleeding by starting the progesterone earlier in my cycle? If so, on which day? Or do I need to start adding a bit of biest into my regiment? My doctor suggested that I could introduce 2.5mg biest (80/20 ratio) from day 5 to day 25 of my cycle, but I am unclear on how this could solve the bleeding issues. Lastly, I am experiencing some joint pain and joint inflammation lately, and I keep reading that this could be a (peri)menopausal symptom. Could adding a bit of biest help the joint pain? Oh, my skin is also drying up and sometimes breaking out a bit, and I guess that’s also related to the change of hormones. It’s the bleeding and the joint paint though that I am mostly bothered about. I already have low iron levels as it is, and it’s very hard to keep on top of them with the amount of blood I am losing each month. So your input on that matter is greatly appreciated! I eat a reasonable diet (low carb, nothing processed), fast for 16 hours and exercise reasonably (definitely not killing myself at the gym), so I think that’s all helping. And I don’t have much stress in my life, so THAT is super helpful, too 🙂 Anyway, hope you have all the info needed. Look forward to answers. Thanks very much!” Join us as we delve into these topics to provide insights and potential solutions for women experiencing similar challenges during perimenopause. If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode, we dive into the important topic of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) dosing. Our discussion is inspired by a question from Leah, a 56-year-old listener who is healthy, fit, and navigating menopause. Leah has been experiencing significant anxiety and wonders if her current estrogen dose might be too low. What You’ll Learn in This Episode  The difference between static vs. rhythmic HRT dosing and how they impact symptoms. Various HRT applications, including estradiol patches, transdermal/transvaginal creams, and oral HRT options. Key hormones involved in HRT: estradiol, estriol, testosterone, progesterone, and cortisol. Why anxiety is a common and often overlooked symptom of menopause—and how HRT can help.   Let’s Read Leah’s Question:  “Hello there! After 6 months of deep diving I found your site! I feel like no one here in Vancouver has a full hold on how to treat me. Your information has been so invaluable, but now I’m worried I’m not being cared for properly.  I’m 56, fit, work out regularly at moderate intensity with muscle training, normal weight, healthy my entire life-no menopause issues till March.  I was a week away from a big gig and suddenly got this weird, crippling anxiety. It started with a massive hot flash upon waking one morning, then this feeling like I had just missed being in a car accident … like a fright- for no reason. It was bad enough the first week that I didn’t want to drive. It settled to about 30% and so was able to function. But it recurs at this level now and it’s been 8 months. Its the most uncomfortable feeling, and little things bring it on, like getting ready to go out and always first thing when I wake up.  I started with an obgyne who put me on .05 estradot patch with 100 mg progesterone. Hot flashes went away but nothing else. Went up to .075, no change. Also started on 2 mg testosterone ordered perivaginally.  Then I went to see a naturopath. Did a DUTCH. Test, my hormone levels looked as if I wasn’t taking anything! Also adrenals were fatigued and low cortisol.Basically everything really low but progesterone ok.  My naturopath put me on 50:50 bi-est 2.0 mg vaginally applied. Progesterone 40 mg transdermal and staying on the oral progesterone. No change after 3 weeks. I feel like I need more hormones. My naturopath says she never gives more than 3 mg testosterone because it can raise cholesterol but all the research shows 5 mg starting dose?  I also asked her about vaginal application of biest and systemic concerns and she said because it was 50:50 the estriol would help regulate the estradiol.  After listening to all your podcasts and reading your case studies, I’m feeling like there’s so much contradicting info and I don’t want to apply it vaginally. I feel like my dose is too low, did I mention in addition to this weird anxiety, I’m also getting little hot flashes again?  I want to enjoy my life and feel like me again. This insane…  Would love to hear your thoughts and opinion?  Warmest Regards”   Whether you’re new to HRT or looking for insights on optimizing your hormone therapy, this episode is packed with practical advice and actionable tips to help you feel your best during menopause. If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.  Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode, we discuss a listener’s question regarding her hormone replacement therapy, testosterone dosing, and vaginal dryness. In this podcast, we discuss: Vaginal dryness and menopause Testosterone for women Testosterone injections, pellets, and transdermal cream hormone therapy for women Estrogen, estradiol, estriol, and biest hormone treatments Hormone testing for menopause   Question: “Hi! I am 52 currently on Cypionate 200mg/1ml 0.06 injection once a week, Progesterone 200mg orally, and Biest 50:50 1mg a day. I came off of pellets to this regime now. I was doing fine until the past 3 months. I all of a sudden got back my vaginal dryness pretty bad. My testosterone had gotten pretty high 334 from my normal 219 because the compounding pharmacy gave me Depo-Testosterone instead of my normal Cypionate. I know the depo is just brand name but it really through everything off. I have stopped the depo and have been on the Cypionate now for the past month. With that said I am still having vaginal dryness. Do you think it could have been due to being Testosterone dominate? Do you think I need to up my Biest Cream? I do use and have used the Estridol vagina cream for years and it’s not helping. I tried one night doing one and half pumps of my Biest cream and the next day I had more discharge. Any help is greatly appreciated!” If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

In this episode, we discuss a listener’s question about estrogen cream causing nausea. ‘Betty’ is a practitioner with a client that is having severe nausea as a reaction to her biest/estrogen cream. While her client has experienced much improvement with her hormone therapy, she is having a lot of issues with nausea and vomiting. In this podcast, we discuss: What types of hormone therapy can cause nausea Why is HRT causing you to feel sick Estrogen therapy for vaginal dryness Blood work for menopause Blood work for hormone levels How HRT dosing is very individualized to each person Let’s read Betty’s question: “I have a patient with a history of hysterectomy who retains one ovary. She is currently on Biest cream 50/50, 1 mg daily. She is also on progesterone 100-200 mg orally HS. She initially did well: improved vaginal moisture, great sex and mood. Now she is experiencing debilitating N/V, which she did when taking synthetic estrogen from her gyn. Should I just have her maybe 0.5mg vaginally 3x/week? I have never had any patients experience this. BTW, she was not on progesterone when she was taking the synthetic estrogen so that’s why we think it’s the estrogen. Thanks.” If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question. Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.