Understanding Modern HRT in Integrative Practice
Integrative GP Dr Lucy Caratti explores the evolution of HRT from older synthetic hormones that sparked safety concerns, to today’s bio-identical options that more closely mimic the body’s natural hormones. She addresses historical safety concerns and discusses the benefits of appropriate use to support patients experiencing significant menopausal symptoms.
She highlights the widespread, systemic impacts of menopause across cardiovascular, neurological, musculoskeletal, and urogenital systems and discusses how HRT, when prescribed thoughtfully, can play a powerful role in mitigating these effects. Concomitant use of herbs, nutrients, and lifestyle interventions for a holistic prescription are also discussed.
In this Episode:
2:57 – Welcome Lucy
3:28 – A brief history of HRT
5:38 – Problems with the old hormones
6:35 – Why the new bio-identical hormones do not have the same problems
7:46 – The stigma around HRT
9:27 – The impact of women’s longer lifespan
9:50 – Menopause isn’t just hot flushes, there are wide reaching systemic effects
12:27 – The musculoskeletal effects of menopause
13:52 – How are the hormones prescribed
14:20 – When to use chaste tree
15:59 – Duration of therapy
17:08 – Side effects
17:33 – Other herbal considerations and adrenal support
17:58 – Supporting gut and liver health
18:52 – Are there nutrient depletions to be aware of?
19:45 – Herbs and supplements Lucy likes to recommend
21:37 – Iron deficiency in menopause
23:22 – Are there any drug interactions with HRT?
24:17 – UTI’s in menopause
25:41 – Monitoring patients on hormones
27:09 – How to work with GPs to manage menopause patients
28:22 – Osteoporosis and bone density
30:10 – The role of testosterone prescription
31:02 – The importance of women lifting heavy weights – pilates isn’t enough!
33:32 – Having a referral network
34:25 – The importance of providing information for patients to make informed decisions
37:08 – Thank you Lucy
Bio: Dr Lucy Caratti is an integrative doctor with 15 years of clinical experience specialising in women’s health, including menopause, gut health, metabolic diseases, and hormonal imbalances.
She takes a root cause approach, combining medical expertise with evidence-based integrative medicine to empower women at every life stage. Holding a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Western Australia. She’s a fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, and has additional training in child health, psychology, nutrition, and mental health biochemistry.
Dr Lucy co-founded the Western Australia charity Be Giving and Expand Wellbeing, a school program for girls health, education and actively participates in initiatives supporting women’s wellness.