Hormones & Menopause: What the New FDA Decision Really Means for Women’s Health

Founder Friday

Every Friday, our founder pulls back the curtain and shares something close to her heart—whether it’s a lesson learned, a personal story, or a behind-the-scenes glimpse into our journey. These posts are part inspiration, part reflection, and always written to connect, encourage, and spark conversation. It’s a chance to see some of the “why” behind what we do, straight from the person who started it all.

In a major shift for women’s health, the FDA is removing the outdated black box warnings from many hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products. This change reflects updated research showing that hormone therapy — when started at the right time and with the right formulation — is far safer and more beneficial than many women have been led to believe.

So what changed? And what does this mean for you?

For over 20 years, the black box warning created fear around hormone therapy. It came from older studies (like the WHI) that used hormone types and doses rarely used today — and included women who were well past the typical age of menopause.

After a comprehensive scientific review, the FDA confirmed what many integrative and menopause experts have been saying for years:

• Hormone therapy is most beneficial — and safest — when started within 10 years of menopause or before age 60.

• Risks once believed to be universal are not the same for younger, newly menopausal women.

  
  

Highlights From 2024 Research

New studies are helping reshape the conversation:

• The 2024 Panay et al. review emphasized that hormone therapy is highly personalized: timing, dose, and delivery method make all the difference.

  
  

• A 2024 Swedish national study found favorable cardiovascular outcomes for women who started contemporary hormone therapy early.

  
  

• 2024 data cites randomized studies showing that women who initiate HRT within 10 years of menopause have reductions (not increases) in all‐cause mortality, fractures, cardiovascular disease (up to ~50 %), Alzheimer’s disease (~35 %) and bone fractures (~50–60 %)

  
  

This aligns with what we see clinically: when hormones decline abruptly, the body feels it — in sleep, mood, metabolism, bones, brain health, and overall vitality.

When thoughtfully prescribed, monitored, and paired with lifestyle support, hormone therapy can:

• Improve hot flashes, night sweats, sleep, and mood

  
  

• Protect bone density and reduce fracture risk

  
  

• Support heart and metabolic health

  
  

• Enhance cognitive function and decrease long-term dementia risk

  
  

• Improve vaginal health, libido, and quality of life

  
  

• Support overall vitality, energy, and healthy aging

  
  

Hormones aren’t just for symptoms — they’re foundational to multiple systems in the body.

Hormone therapy isn’t right for everyone, and it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

• Timing matters → Best started within 10 years of menopause.

  
  

• Formulation matters

  
  

• Individual history matters

  
  

This is why shared decision-making is essential — not fear, not outdated warnings.

If you are in your 40s–50s, entering perimenopause, or newly menopausal and struggling with symptoms or noticing changes in sleep, mood, metabolism, or energy, this is an ideal time to reevaluate hormone therapy.

The new FDA guidance helps us have a more accurate, hopeful, and informed conversation.

You deserve care that is current, personalized, and aligned with your long-term health — not ruled by outdated fear.

If you’re curious about whether hormone therapy might support your wellness or longevity goals, we’re here to help you explore your options safely and confidently.