Dr. Cat Brown | Menopause & Women’s Health Expert

As estrogen declines during perimenopause and menopause, the tissues that support your joints can become stiffer and less flexible, which can cause joint pain. Have you noticed more joint discomfort lately? Let's hear about it.

It takes time (and consistency) to fully experience some of the benefits of HRT. Be patient with your body, and remember that small changes now can make a big difference later. If you’re still weighing your options or have been wondering whether HRT is right for you, check the link in my bio to learn more. bywinona.com/get-started?ut…

Sharing some behind-the-scenes moments from the filming of the "Four Days: Menopause" documentary series. I had the privilege of participating as one of the health experts, representing @by_winona . The "Four Days: Menopause" features real stories from women navigating the menopause transition, along with insights from passionate women’s health specialists. Watch and experience the beauty of this series here: ravoke.com/four-days-meno… @RavokeHealth @CMattocks1

Vaginal estrogen is a game-changer and a staple in my own HRT routine. Using vaginal estrogen alongside your overall HRT plan can help target the tissues that need it most and protect against changes caused by low estrogen. It’s a safe and effective way to support vaginal health. Have you noticed similar changes? Share your experience in the comments — your story could help someone else, too.

Your HRT dose depends on your symptoms, where you are in the menopause transition, your physician’s recommendations, and potential risks and benefits based on your medical history. Some women may only need short-term support, while others benefit from longer-term treatment to maintain symptom relief and quality of life. Save this post as a reminder.

As you move through the later stages of perimenopause, certain supplements can affect how your medications work. Keeping track of what you take helps your doctor adjust your HRT if needed and supports a smoother transition into menopause. Take a moment to review your current supplements and routine. Small adjustments now can help you feel your best throughout this transition.

Modern ablation procedures can provide years of relief from heavy periods and may help you avoid a hysterectomy. Hormone therapy doesn't interfere with the results, and your uterus stays protected. Discover more tips and support at the link in bio, or visit bywinona.com to learn how personalized care can help you feel like yourself again.

Have other questions about your HRT treatment or how your body may respond? Join me on April 16th at 7 PM ET for a free live Q&A in the Winona app. Drop your questions in the chat box during the live, and I'll answer them then and there. Click the link in my bio to join!

Still wondering if hormone therapy is working for you? The most reliable clue is how your body feels compared to before you started — not a lab result or a timeline. Tracking those changes over time can help you better understand where you are in the transition and what your next step might be. Save the date! I’ll be live on April 16 for my next free Q&A. Bring your questions, join the chat, and let’s talk through what’s on your mind. bywinona.com/liveqa?utm_sou…

The truth is, hormones fluctuate too much for a single blood, saliva, or urine test to tell the full story. I personally use this symptom tracker myself and I recommend it to my patients: bywinona.com/symptoms-track…

When it comes to supplements while on HRT, it doesn’t have to be complicated. For many women, focusing on the basics, like calcium and vitamin D, can help support bone health, while magnesium may help with sleep or headaches. The goal isn’t to add more supplements, but to gently support your body where it may need it. What vitamins or supplements have you found helpful? Share in the comments or drop a question to keep the conversation going.

Breast tenderness can occur shortly after starting estrogen and progesterone therapy as your body adjusts to the medication. This is usually temporary and tends to improve as hormone levels stabilize. If symptoms persist or become uncomfortable, note the changes and reach out to your doctor to see if a dose adjustment is needed.

When your body starts changing and life feels unpredictable, what do you do next?

Stubborn weight around the midsection during menopause isn’t a failure of effort or willpower. Stress hormones, poor sleep, and changes in body composition can signal your body to hold on to fat, especially around the abdomen. Prioritizing quality sleep, managing your stress levels, eating enough protein, and supporting your hormones when appropriate can help your body feel more balanced and gradually shift over time. Curious which small changes could make the biggest difference for you? Start with one step this week and notice how your body responds.

Ladies, pay attention to what you’re feeling. If it helps, jot it down in your phone. Tracking your symptoms makes it so much easier for your doctor to determine the right next steps in your treatment.

Wondering how to use the @by_winona #estrogenpatch? Here’s what I recommend: • Put it on after you shower, when your skin is fully dry, and before applying lotion. If your skin feels oily, just swipe the area with an alcohol pad and let it dry. • Stick the patch on your lower abdomen or upper buttocks. Press it down firmly and rub it over, so it sticks well. Switch spots every time you replace the patch to minimize the risk of irritation. • A little baby oil can help remove any sticky residue after taking the patch off. • Change your patch twice a week (every 3–4 days). Setting a phone reminder really helps! Staying consistent helps keep your #estrogen levels steady and your symptoms controlled. Having this in my HRT routine has made such a difference for me! Learn more about Winona's Estrogen Patch here: bywinona.com/product/estrog…

Come join me on April 16 at 7 PM ET for a free live Q&A! I’ll be answering all your questions and sharing guidance on hormone health and wellness. Save your spot in the Winona app! bywinona.com/liveqa?utm_sou…