The Wellness Mama Podcast A Modern Approach to Menopause, Hormones and Lifelong Health With Dr. Jessica Shepherd
Mar 11, 2026
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, an OB/GYN and women’s health expert focused on menopause, hormones, and fitness, offers clinical clarity. She reframes menopause as a biological evolution. She examines myths about hormone therapy and breast cancer. She outlines data-backed hormone risks and benefits. She highlights heart, muscle, sleep, and lifestyle strategies and previews a Menopause Strong strength program.
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Why The Estrogen Causes Breast Cancer Myth Persists
- The WHI headline that hormone therapy causes breast cancer is misleading and originated from a study focused on cardiovascular risk, not menopause outcomes.
- A synthetic progestin in that study slightly increased breast cancer risk while estrogen alone was shown to be breast protective, and we no longer use that synthetic progestin.
Reject Binary Thinking Around Menopause Choices
- Avoid binary thinking about menopause choices; there's a wide gray area and decisions should be judgment-free and individualized.
- Jessica Shepherd reframes menopause as an evolution and emphasizes providing information so women can choose what fits their life.
Weigh Hormone Therapy Benefits For Long Term Health
- Consider hormone therapy for benefits beyond symptoms, including improved bone density, muscle preservation, reduced colon cancer risk, and potential cardiovascular advantages.
- Weigh these benefits against risks individually and discuss choices with a knowledgeable clinician to personalize care.