In this episode of the "Modern Thyroid and Wellness" podcast, host McCall McPherson delves into the intricate relationship between hormones and thyroid disorders, particularly focusing on women's health across various life stages: premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal. This episode aims to unravel the complexities of hormonal health, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to treatment. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by McCall, providing a comprehensive guide for women navigating hormonal imbalances.
Testosterone often declines early in a woman's life, particularly around the ages of 25 to 26, and this decline can accelerate in the presence of thyroid dysfunction. Symptoms of low testosterone include:
To improve testosterone levels, foundational treatments focus on optimizing thyroid function and adrenal health. Here are some actionable steps:
Testing for testosterone levels is straightforward and can be done any day of the cycle for premenopausal or perimenopausal women. Postmenopausal women should have their levels tested via blood tests. The optimal testosterone range for women is between 35 to 65.
For treatment, McCall prefers using a rapidly dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue, which allows for quick absorption and avoids complications associated with creams. Monitoring testosterone levels and symptoms after starting treatment is essential, typically checking labs three months post-initiation.
Low progesterone can manifest as:
McCall prefers a bioidentical compounded form of progesterone taken orally in a sustained-release method. This approach provides a calming effect that lasts throughout the day, improving overall quality of life.
For premenopausal women, dosing progesterone according to the menstrual cycle is recommended, increasing the dosage during the luteal phase. Testing for progesterone levels is best done midway between ovulation and the next period to capture peak levels.
In postmenopausal women, maintaining progesterone levels between 2 and 6 can significantly improve symptoms and overall well-being. McCall emphasizes using the least amount of hormones necessary to alleviate symptoms and support long-term health.
Historically, the Women's Health Initiative study in the 1990s raised concerns about estrogen's link to cancer, leading to widespread fear and avoidance of estrogen replacement therapy. However, recent studies have shown that estrogen replacement can reduce the risk of various health issues, including breast cancer, cardiovascular events, and osteoporosis.
Symptoms of low estrogen include:
McCall advocates for estrogen replacement therapy, aiming for estrogen levels between 35 and 75. Testing estrogen levels and correlating lab results with symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. She prefers using transdermal estrogen creams or vaginal tablets, which provide stable hormone levels and can address vaginal atrophy.
Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an excess of estrogen relative to progesterone, leading to symptoms such as:
To address estrogen dominance, McCall discusses the use of supplements like DIM (diindolylmethane) and calcium D-glucarate, which can help enhance the metabolism and excretion of excess estrogen. These interventions can restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.
Throughout the episode, McCall McPherson underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to hormonal health, particularly for women with thyroid disorders. By addressing testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen levels, women can significantly improve their quality of life and overall health. McCall encourages listeners to seek out knowledgeable clinicians who stay updated on the latest research and treatment options, ensuring they receive the best care possible for their hormonal health.
By following these insights and recommendations, women can navigate the complexities of hormonal health with confidence and improve their overall well-being.
