EPISODE # 32

Hormone Replacement Therapy in Perimenopause: Interview with Rachel Schaefer

Empowering women to navigate perimenopause with science-backed hormone therapy and integrative care

Are your hormones out of balance? In this episode of The Histamine Well Podcast, Joanne sits down with Rachel Schaefer, founder of Gingko Integrative Medicine, to demystify perimenopause and the role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in supporting women’s health.

They explore what actually happens during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause, how to recognize estrogen dominance, and the benefits and risks of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone therapy. Rachel shares practical insights on how personalized care, detailed hormone testing, and integrative medicine can help women navigate this transitional stage with confidence.

You’ll learn how early intervention with the right HRT protocol can improve energy, mood, sleep, and long-term wellbeing—plus how to avoid common pitfalls with synthetic hormones, patches, and oral estrogen.

Whether you’re just entering perimenopause or already considering HRT, this episode offers a clear, empowering look at how to restore hormonal harmony and thrive through midlife.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • What really happens to your hormones during perimenopause
  • The difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones
  • How to identify and manage estrogen dominance
  • When to start Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and why timing matters
  • The benefits and risks of estrogen and progesterone supplementation
  • Why personalized hormone testing is essential for effective treatment
  • Common mistakes with oral estrogen and patches—and safer alternatives
  • How testosterone therapy supports women’s hormone health
  • The truth about HRT and breast cancer risks
  • How to take a holistic, integrative approach to hormone balance

Stay well,

Joanne Kennedy

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