Dr. B's Blog

As a long-time holistic medicine practitioner, Naples, Florida-based internal medicine specialist Dr. Diane Brzezinski, D.O., knows how our bodily systems are interconnected. The health of a distinct system, like the circulatory system, plays a role in the health of the other systems, and all combine to influence one’s overall well-being. As a female, Dr. B also understands that vaginal health plays a supporting role in maintaining a woman’s well-being. Along with causing localized pain and discomfort, vaginal issues can reduce libido, cause depression, lower self-esteem, and lead to relationship problems.

The popularity of male hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has soared over the past decade, due in part to studies refuting earlier research that suggested links between testosterone replacement therapy and cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer. Harvard University researchers who examined the recent studies determined that HRT is a “viable option” for men with low testosterone levels combined with several associated symptoms.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was recognized as a highly effective treatment for menopause symptoms decades ago, but the therapy has been clouded by misinformation ever since the release of a 2001 Woman’s Health Initiative (WHI) study. That study linked HRT to the dreaded C-word—cancer and an increased risk of stroke, blood clots, and other health issues, causing HRT prescriptions to plummet. Once women were scared off of their hormones OF ANY KIND, there was an 8 fold increase of heart disease in women after the first year of discontinuation quickly becoming one of the top killers of women. While researchers have since identified flaws in the initial report, and follow-up studies have established that HRT benefits outweigh potential risks, HRT acceptance remains subdued, and most women (and men) remain confused about the therapy’s benefits and safety.