10: Myth-Busting Menopause Care with Dr. Naomi Busch
EP. 10
Menopause is frequently misunderstood and misrepresented, often leaving women to navigate this significant life transition in silence and confusion. In the U.S., over one million women enter menopause each year, yet many remain uncertain about when and how to seek support. Am I too young to ask for help? Are my symptoms severe enough to warrant a conversation with my doctor?
I recently sat down with Dr. Naomi Busch, owner of Seattle Menopause Medicine, to debunk some of the most pervasive myths surrounding menopause and provide clarity and confidence for women facing this transition.
Listen to the full episode:
Myth #1: You Have to Be Older to Seek Menopause Care
One of the most common misconceptions surrounding menopause is that you must be older, specifically postmenopausal, to seek help for symptoms. Many women in their early 40s find themselves dismissed when they approach healthcare providers about their symptoms, being told they're "too young" for menopause treatment. This misconception can lead to frustration, especially when these women have already self-educated and are advocating for their health.
Dr. Naomi Busch, the founder of Seattle Menopause Medicine, highlights that this belief is fundamentally flawed. Women experiencing symptoms of perimenopause should feel empowered to seek help, regardless of their age. It's crucial to understand that symptoms can manifest well before a woman has gone a full year without a period, which is the medical definition of menopause.
In her practice, Dr. Busch takes a comprehensive approach, considering not just menopause but also other potential endocrine issues, like thyroid or adrenal gland problems, which can often contribute to these symptoms. By encouraging open discussions and assessments, she reassures her patients that even mild symptoms can indicate the onset of perimenopause and should not be ignored.
Ultimately, age should never be a barrier to seeking menopause care. Women deserve to be heard and supported at any stage of their menopausal journey, and understanding this can be the first step toward better health and well-being.
Myth #2: You Have to Be Suffering Severe Symptoms Before Seeking Treatment
Many women believe they must be experiencing severe symptoms to warrant treatment for menopause or perimenopause. This misconception often leads women to downplay their struggles, convincing themselves that they’re not “bad enough” to seek help.
However, it’s essential to understand that symptoms of menopause can manifest in various ways, both physical and emotional. Conditions such as mood fluctuations, anxiety, and cognitive difficulties—often dismissed as minor—can significantly impact daily life and overall well-being. Recognizing that these symptoms are valid and can be indicative of underlying hormonal changes is crucial.
Women should not wait until they are suffering to reach out for support. Addressing menopausal symptoms early can lead to more effective management and improved quality of life. It's about finding the right care and support, regardless of the severity of symptoms. The goal is to empower women to prioritize their health and well-being during this transition, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
Myth #3: Life is Ruined Without Hormone Therapy
A common belief among women is that if they cannot or choose not to use hormone therapy during menopause, their quality of life will significantly diminish. This myth can create anxiety and despair for those who might have medical contraindications or simply prefer alternative methods to manage their symptoms.
While hormone therapy can be effective for many, it is not the only option available. It’s important to recognize that there are various treatments and strategies that can help manage menopausal symptoms. For instance, vaginal estrogen can be a safe option for many women, even those over 60, and it can help alleviate symptoms like vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
Additionally, there are non-hormonal treatments available for various symptoms. For example, medications such as anticholinergics can assist with overactive bladder issues, helping women who experience frequent urination or urgency. Other options include various topical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and alternative therapies that can significantly improve quality of life.
Women should feel empowered to explore these alternatives and have open conversations with their healthcare providers about the best options for their individual situations. Life certainly doesn’t have to be “ruined” without hormone therapy; there are many pathways to finding relief and support during menopause.
Myth #4: Compounded Hormones Are Superior to Pharmacy-Bought Hormones
A prevalent misconception is that hormone therapy must come exclusively from compounding pharmacies and that these compounded hormones are inherently better than those obtained from traditional pharmacies. This belief often stems from the idea that compounded medications are somehow more “natural” or “bioidentical.”
In reality, both compounded hormones and those available at standard pharmacies contain the same active ingredients. Estradiol and progesterone, which are commonly used in hormone therapy, are synthesized using the same chemical processes, whether they come from a compounding pharmacy or a traditional one. It’s essential to understand that compounded hormones are not always necessary and can sometimes lead to increased costs without additional benefits.
Another amusing myth that often surfaces is the belief that using yam cream can effectively deliver hormone therapy. While yam cream is marketed as a natural option, it is essential to clarify that it does not provide significant amounts of bioidentical hormones. The compounds in yam cream do not translate into adequate hormone levels in the body, as the body does not extract hormones from yams in a usable form.
It's crucial for women to be aware that the hormones they need for effective management of menopausal symptoms can be safely obtained from reputable pharmacies without the need for compounded alternatives. This understanding can help demystify hormone therapy and allow women to make informed choices about their health care without being swayed by myths or misconceptions surrounding hormone sources. Additionally, discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider can clarify what options are best for individual health needs, allowing for a balanced and personalized approach to managing menopausal symptoms.
It's essential for women to recognize that menopause is a natural life stage that can come with a variety of symptoms, and seeking help is not only valid but necessary at any age or symptom severity. Dr. Naomi Busch and her team at Seattle Menopause Medicine are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each woman, helping them navigate this transition with confidence and support. By dispelling myths and fostering open dialogue about menopause, they empower women to take charge of their health and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing menopausal symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to Seattle Menopause Medicine for expert guidance and compassionate care.
More About Dr. Naomi Busch
Dr Naomi Busch, MD opened Seattle Menopause Medicine in 2023 to guide women through perimenopause and into the menopause transition. Dr Busch is passionate about educating and empowering women to make the best decision for themselves when it comes to their health and wellness. She believes in the power of listening to her patients, remaining open and curious about their experiences.
Dr Busch provides care within a Health at Every Size (HAES)® and trauma informed model. She believes in taking a weight inclusive approach that focuses on symptoms, concerns, and diagnosis rather than size. She uses an evidence-based approach to problem solving, delivered in a slower paced private environment.
Dr Busch is NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner. She is also a board-certified Family Medicine physician. She graduated summa cum laude from Tufts University and then went on to Tufts Medical School in Boston. Dr Busch completed her Family Medicine Residency training at Valley Medical Center in Renton, Washington. Since becoming a physician in 2001, she has been dedicated to the treatment of people who have been marginalized or otherwise forgotten by the medical community. She started her career in community health, later focused on transgender care, and most recently worked in the medical management of eating disorders. Dr Busch strongly believes in providing weight inclusive, evidence based, compassionate care to every patient.