Are Lifestyle Changes a Safer Option Than Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopausal Women? Understanding the Cancer Risks

Menopause is a balancing act. Sleep apnea and insomnia are interconnected conditions that can significantly elevate the risk of developing various cardiovascular problems. During menopause, hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen levels, can lead to a range of physiological modifications that may contribute to cardiovascular issues.

These changes can manifest as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the potential onset of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition characterized by an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke and other heart-related complications.

Sleep apnea, a disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep, can exacerbate these cardiovascular concerns. The repeated episodes of oxygen deprivation can lead to increased stress on the heart, resulting in higher blood pressure and heart rate.

The fragmented sleep associated with insomnia can contribute to a state of chronic fatigue and stress, which may also negatively impact heart health. In light of these risks, I have been prescribed several medications to manage these conditions effectively. This decision came after I experienced a particularly traumatic event that necessitated hospitalization last weekend. I wish to caution others about the dangers of enduring menopause without proper management.

The trauma not only affected my mental and emotional well-being but also had a profound impact on my physical health, underscoring the importance of addressing these interlinked issues ahead of time. Regular monitoring and adjustments to my treatment plan are essential as I navigate this challenging period of my life. This awakening has motivated me to warn other women about the health risks associated with unmanaged menopausal symptoms and using hormone replacement therapy.

WARNING- USING HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY INCREASES CANCER RISK

I want to caution menopause newcomers that hormone replacement therapy can lead to health-related problems. Rather than reducing my estrogen levels, as is common for most women after a complete hysterectomy, my estrogen remained elevated.

However, I still experienced menopause symptoms so they put me on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This was a double whammy because I also had high Cortisol levels due to adrenal issues.

High Cortisol levels and HRT = weight gain!

I was on HRT for about five years beginning in 2017, hoping to get some sleep and stop the hot flashes, but it never happened. Instead, it made the symptoms worse. The doctors told me to stay on it, hoping my body would adjust over time, but it never did.

I was unaware that the longer I continued HRT, the more it increased my risk of breast cancer. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023.

BE AWARE OF INCREASED CANCER RISKS FROM MENOPAUSE TREATMENTS

Two years ago, the hot flashes had finally somewhat subsided and I was managing them well up until I had to be put on hormone based chemotherapy, which caused all of the symptoms of menopause to return. I felt like I couldn't win. Using HRT was one of the greatest mistakes I've made!

HRT led to breast cancer in my left breast. God performed a miracle when the tumor vanished (Yes, He deserves the glory even though I was on medication, as He is the force that makes everything on this planet function). However, cancer subsequently later appeared in my right breast, despite having stopped HRT treatment and taking a hormone blocker.

I highly recommend that women thoroughly research the risk before starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 

It is widely known to increase the risk of breast cancer, yet none of my doctors warned me about the risk. 

About 34% of women who developed breast cancer had also used HRT at some point. That's quite a significant number; I should have been informed! The risk grows the longer you use it.

There are additional health risks associated with HRT that are often not disclosed, such as a heightened risk of blood clots or heart issues. I was hospitalized on two occasions with suspected blood clots that caused heart attack symptoms and was promptly taken off HRT each time. However, it was prescribed again months later because of chronic insomnia.

Shortly after beginning HRT, I started experiencing AFib symptoms. I lived with those symptoms for eight years before being diagnosed. I had no idea why I felt so bad but brushed it off as thyroid symptoms. All of the past tests showed my heart was normal.

Despite its known cancer & other health risks, doctors continue to prescribe HRT to many women. It is costly, and some physicians receive incentives for the prescriptions they issue.

Be aware that it is a significant profit-driven strategy that can put your health at risk. Ask your doctor whether they receive incentives for the prescriptions they recommend to you. IF THEY REFUSE TO ANSWER, CHANGE DOCTORS IMMEDIATELY.

LIVE A WELL-BALANCED LIFESTYLE

The body requires both adequate rest and regular exercise to maintain optimal health, and achieving this balance during menopause can be particularly challenging.

This is especially true for those who suffer from chronic insomnia, a condition that can be exacerbated by the hormonal fluctuations associated with menopause. I can personally confirm that menopause is not just a physical transition; it can alter one's perspective on life, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

The consequences of poor sleep during menopause extend beyond mere fatigue; they can increase the risk of developing other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, weight gain, and mental health disorders. Therefore, it becomes essential for women to adopt strategies that promote better sleep hygiene and overall wellness during this time.

This may include establishing a calming bedtime routine, engaging in regular physical activity, and exploring relaxation techniques such as stretching or meditation.

I've begun adopting new coping strategies that I used to overlook, such as choosing a soothing bath filled with Epsom Salts or natural bath bombs over a shower, engaging in deep breathing exercises to slow my heart rate, or painting alone in a dimly lit room. Taking Magnesium supplements also helps.

Ultimately, navigating through menopause while managing sleep problems requires a thoughtful and proactive approach. It is a balancing act that necessitates awareness and adaptation to the changes that the body is experiencing.

It's entirely understandable to wish to minimize the often uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating side effects of menopause. Many women experience a range of symptoms during this transitional phase, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, all of which can significantly impact quality of life.

To combat these symptoms, many healthcare providers recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a potential solution.

However, it is crucial to recognize that many HRT brands utilize synthetic hormones, which are created in laboratories and are not identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body. This distinction is significant because synthetic hormones can have different effects on the body compared to bioidentical hormones, which are designed to closely mimic the molecular structure of the hormones that our bodies produce.

I must admit, when I first began taking HRT, I did not fully consider the implications of using synthetic hormones or the potential long-term effects they could have on my health. At that time, my primary focus was on alleviating the immediate discomfort of menopause.

However, in hindsight, I realize that if I could turn back time, I would choose to endure the symptoms of menopause over the risk of developing breast cancer, which can be a serious consequence associated with certain types of hormone therapy.

The short answer is, lifestyle changes are the most holistic way of managing menopause. However, the reality is that the decision to use HRT is complex and should involve a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider about the risks and benefits, as well as an exploration of alternative treatments that may be available. Ultimately, the journey through menopause is deeply personal, and each woman must weigh her options carefully, considering both her current symptoms and her long-term health.

Here are five lifestyle changes menopausal women can make to enhance their overall well-being and manage the symptoms associated with this natural transition in life.

Each change can contribute significantly to improving physical health, emotional stability, and quality of life during menopause.

TOP 5 WAYS TO MANAGE MENOPAUSE:

1. Adopt a Balanced Diet: A varied diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is crucial for managing menopausal symptoms. Include calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and phytoestrogen-rich foods like tofu and seed cycling for hot flashes. Avoid red meat and stay hydrated to reduce bloating and improve skin health.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Exercise is crucial for menopausal women to manage weight, improve mood, and lower the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. A mix of aerobic, strength, and flexibility exercises like walking, swimming, stretching, and Pilates enhances fitness and mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. Some churches offer free gyms, so explore local options.

3. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Menopause can disrupt sleep due to hormonal changes. Improve sleep quality by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring a dark, quiet, cool sleep environment. Limit caffeine and electronic device use before bed. Consult a healthcare professional if sleep issues continue.

4. Manage Stress Through Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Menopause can increase stress and anxiety. Mindfulness, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises are effective for stress management. Activities like cycling, stretching, hobbies, time with loved ones, and enjoying nature promote relaxation and improve mood.

5. Stay Connected with Healthcare Providers - Regular check-ups during menopause are crucial. Women should discuss symptoms and treatment options, such as hormone replacement or alternatives, with their healthcare providers. Open communication helps in making informed health decisions. Joining support groups or online forums can also offer community support during this transition.