Listen "#17 - Progesterone Intolerance: When the Calming Hormone Turns to Chaos"
Episode Synopsis
Is Progesterone Only for Women with a Uterus? The Truth About Hormone TherapyWhen you hear “progesterone,” do you immediately think it’s only necessary for women who still have a uterus? Think again.In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, board-certified gynecologist and menopause specialist, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, functional medicine expert and nurse practitioner, unpack one of the most persistent myths in women’s health: that progesterone is optional after hysterectomy.Together, they explore why progesterone plays a vital role in hormone therapy far beyond uterine protection. From supporting sleep and reducing anxiety, to protecting the brain, bones, and cardiovascular system, progesterone proves itself to be essential for midlife health. The conversation also breaks down confusing terminology around progesterone vs. progestins, dives into different forms and dosing options, and emphasizes why individualized care is key to safe and effective treatment.You’ll also hear candid insights on side effects, how hormones work in symphony, and why finding a knowledgeable provider matters when navigating hormone therapy.✨ You’ll walk away knowing that progesterone’s story is much bigger than just the uterus.Episode Highlights:Why you still need progesterone even without a uterusThe neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits of progesteroneContinuous vs. cyclic dosing—what works best and whyDifferences between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestinsHow progesterone supports sleep, mood, and hormone balanceSide effects to be aware of and how to adjust careThe importance of individualized approaches to hormone therapyMemorable Quotes:“Progesterone’s role does not end with the uterus.”“The key is—it’s not a blanket rule.”“We have to share the not so good parts too.”Chapters: 00:00 Debunking the Uterus Myth 02:42 The Role of Progesterone in Hormone Therapy 05:45 Understanding Dosing: Continuous vs. Cyclic Progesterone 08:34 Progesterone’s Neuroprotective Benefits 11:39 The Importance of Progesterone for Bone and Cardiovascular Health 14:34 Clarifying Terminology: Progesterone vs. Progestins 17:30 Forms of Progesterone: Oral, Vaginal, and Topical 20:04 Dosing Guidelines for Hormone Replacement Therapy 23:01 Potential Side Effects and Considerations 25:42 Individualized Care in Hormone TherapyMeet Your Hosts:Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-CA board-certified nurse practitioner and founder and medical director at Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade Akindipe created The Elevated Woman Method to help women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to thrive in their bodies. With years of experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health. Dr. Ade believes women aren’t broken—they just need the right map back to themselves. Resources and links from Dr. Ade🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825💬 Book your Free 60 Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAWDr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is the Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin. She is also host of NPR-affiliated Line One on Alaska Public Media and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her expertise spans hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aesthetic medicine, empowering women to lead vibrant, informed lives.📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at [email protected]—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode! Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.#MenopauseHealth #Progesterone #HormoneTherapy #MidlifeHealth #WomensHealth #HormoneBalance #SleepHealth #Inflammation
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