Beginning in the 1970s, pharmaceutical companies and doctors assured women that synthetic hormones used in menopause treatments were safe. However, results from the Women’s Health Initiative studies in 2002 showed a higher risk of breast cancer, heart attack, stroke, and pulmonary embolism for women taking these synthetic hormones. This led to 50 million women either going “cold turkey” off their hormones or seeking alternative options.
Real vs. Synthetic Estrogen and Progesterone
Synthetic estrogens, such as those found in Premarin® and other medications, have been chemically modified in laboratories and are not the same as the 17 beta-estradiol our bodies make. Synthetic progestins are also unnatural hormones and are not easily metabolized by our bodies.
On the other hand, real progesterone has been shown not to promote breast cancer. In fact, eight well-designed studies have shown with clear clinical significance that the use of natural progesterone lowers the risk of breast cancer.
Natural Estrogen and Progesterone Benefits
Natural estrogen replacement, which comes in the form of creams or troches that melt under the tongue, is more effective at reducing menopausal symptoms than synthetic estrogen pills. It has been shown to eliminate hot flashes and sweating in 71% of subjects and reduces headaches by two-thirds.
Studies have shown that natural estrogens help maintain better memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, natural estrogens lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL) and may decrease cardiovascular disease risk.
Estrogens also play a role in treating and preventing osteoporosis, as transdermal estrogen supplementation reduces bone fracture rates in postmenopausal women. Estrogen also works in conjunction with progesterone to lower breast cancer risk.
It is crucial to note that taking estrogen orally carries some health risks from unnatural metabolites created when it passes through your liver, but these risks do not occur when taken as a cream or a troche.
Progesterone Benefits
Progesterone levels usually drop before estrogen levels during menopause. Low progesterone levels cause the classic symptoms of irregular, heavy, or painful periods; breast tenderness; mood swings; irritability; and other adverse effects.
Progesterone is vital because it helps treat PMS symptoms and also has long-term health effects. Studies have shown that natural progesterone reduces the risk of breast and uterine cancer. Numerous studies showcasing the beneficial effects of natural progesterone on breast, uterine, and heart health have been published in the last few decades.
Further, progesterone has been shown to stimulate osteoblast activity (new bone formation) and help prevent osteoporosis. When taken alongside estrogen, progesterone and estrogen collaborate for maximal prevention of bone loss.
In conclusion, for menopausal women, it’s essential to recognize the benefits of real progesterone and natural estrogen replacements. These options can help not only alleviate menopause symptoms but also protect against several health complications. Understanding the difference between synthetic and natural hormones is the first step towards making informed decisions about menopause treatments.
