HRT, misinformation and navigating the menopause media minefield with Kaye Adams

‘I'm a journalist, and I'm always trying to make sense of stories... that's just how my brain works. But I've never been able to make sense of this one... the whole HRT story, the information women are given, and the choices we make based on information we're not entirely sure about. I've always felt that was just unsatisfactory. So that overview from you, I have found really, really interesting’.

In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by broadcaster and journalist Kaye Adams — a familiar face from ITV’s Loose Women and host of the How to Be 60 podcast — for a candid and deeply insightful conversation about navigating menopause in your sixties, the vital role of hormones, and the ongoing confusion around HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

Drawing on her background in pathology and neurophysiology, Dr Louise unpacks decades of overlooked science showing how hormones like oestradiol, progesterone, and testosterone influence everything from brain function and inflammation to bone health and dementia risk. She explains how hormones deficiencies can create a perfect storm for disease, and why understanding their role at a cellular level is crucial for women’s long-term health.

Together, Dr Louise and Kaye address the persistent fears around breast cancer and HRT, revisiting data from the controversial WHI study. Dr Louise explains how misinterpretation and media panic have caused widespread confusion and lasting harm to women’s health. Dr Louise also highlights the significant reductions in risks such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis that HRT can offer, questioning why compelling evidence is still often ignored by mainstream medicine.

Kaye shares her personal reflections and doubts as a woman navigating healthcare in a landscape clouded by misinformation. Their discussion becomes a powerful call for clearer, evidence-based communication, encouraging women to feel empowered, not frightened, when considering treatment.

00:00 - Intro
09:28 - Why some women don't want HRT
19:36 - What is HRT?
26:03 - The scepticism of the medical profession
32:00 - Take home tips

We hope you love the new series! Share your thoughts with us on the feedback form here and if you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform.

Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk with suggestions for new guests!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group.

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