Menopause and perimenopause are increasingly discussed, but so are myths about estrogen. Here are six common misconceptions cleared up by medical experts.
Hormone therapy does not cause significant weight gain. Age-related metabolism changes are more likely the cause.
Estrogen does not increase breast cancer risk when used alone. The 2002 Women's Health Initiative study found increased risk only with a specific combination of hormones.
Estrogen can increase heart attack or stroke risk, but only when taken orally. Patches and vaginal forms do not carry the same risk.
Women should not wait for severe symptoms to start hormone therapy. Early intervention can reduce risks and improve quality of life.
Natural remedies are not necessarily safer. FDA-approved bioidentical hormone therapy is standardized and regulated.
There is no set limit on how long women can take hormone therapy. The Menopause Society recommends individualized discussions after age 65.
