Menopause Mastery: Hormones, HRT Myths, Sexual Health, and Real Solutions with Camille Lawson

Susan Sly 0:00

Well, hey there, and welcome to Season 1, Episode 1 of the Menopause Health Podcast. Today, I am so excited because we have an incredible guest, an amazing entrepreneur, and a highly sought-after expert in hormones and sexuality. She is also an incredible therapist. Camille Lawson is a registered nurse with an M.Ed. in Counseling Psychology, the founder of the Embracing Hormones community, and quite candidly, one of my best friends. In addition to being an in-demand expert, Camille is also a mom of three, an avid tennis player, and quite a competitive golfer, I must say. The reason I wanted her on the first episode of this season is because we’re talking about women’s health during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond—issues that often go undiscussed or are uncomfortable to address. We aim to be your go-to resource to help you, or your patients and clients, navigate this phase of life. Today, Camille and I are diving into vaginal health, changes in sexuality, desire, physiological shifts, and how to have those tough but necessary conversations with your partner. So with that, let’s jump into this episode with the one and only Camille Lawson.

Voiceover 1:49

The opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the show or its hosts. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific health needs.

Susan Sly 2:30

Oh my gosh, Camille, I’m so excited to be here with you, having a conversation that we might normally have over coffee or a cocktail—talking about menopause, hormones, and sexuality—and now we get to invite the world to listen in. Thank you so much for being here on the Menopause Health Podcast.

Camille Lawson 2:50

My pleasure, Susan. As you know, we love talking about these topics, and I think so many other women are eager to have these conversations too. I’m thrilled to be here.

Susan Sly 3:02

Absolutely. For context, in the United States, 50 million women are in menopause. A McKinsey report revealed that 17% of women in decision-making roles want to leave their jobs due to lack of support during menopause. This isn’t just a moment; this is our time to raise awareness so that employers, practitioners, and anyone supporting women truly understand the challenges. Before we jump into your menopause journey, I want to mention that for many women, this has been a private struggle. So many have suffered in silence, not even talking to their girlfriends. Personally, I didn’t have sisters or a mom to guide me, so it was girlfriends like you who really helped. Camille, can you share your own menopause journey with our audience?

Camille Lawson 5:00

Absolutely, Susan. It’s funny because I’ve been in the health space for over 20 years, passionate about hormonal balance. So when I entered my late 40s and 50s, I thought I was prepared. I thought I would be spared because of all the knowledge I had. I even started using bioidentical hormones—DHEA and testosterone—before I really had any symptoms. Everything seemed fine until one day, out of nowhere, I got my first hot flash. And for anyone who’s had one, you know exactly what I mean. It was intense. My face turned red, I was sweating, and I was dressed nicely that day, which was unfortunate. At that point, I knew I had to take things seriously. I started using bioidentical estrogen and progesterone, and I felt great up until I turned 60, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully, it was caught early, and I’ve had a clean bill of health since. I went off all the hormones, and now at 63, I feel fantastic. So there’s hope on the other side of it, and every woman’s journey is different.

Susan Sly 6:55

I remember you saying you had this under control and then that first hot flash hit. And for any men listening or practitioners who support women, this heat surge is real. Before I was on bioidenticals, I’d wake up drenched in sweat. I even joked that I’d lost weight overnight because the sheets were so soaked! Speaking of empathy, there’s a lot of discussion around the mental health aspects of menopause. Women often beat themselves up, suffering in silence—whether it’s from brain fog, lack of support, or feeling powerless. Can you talk about the mental health challenges women face and what practical solutions you've seen work for them?

Camille Lawson: 10:00

Absolutely. First, we must normalize these conversations. For years, menopause was something women didn’t talk about, but just knowing you’re not alone can make a world of difference. From a hormonal perspective, as our progesterone levels drop, it creates what we call estrogen dominance—not because we have too much estrogen, but because we have too little progesterone. And progesterone plays a critical role in our mood and sleep. As it decreases, we become irritable, and our sleep suffers, which, as you know, affects everything—our relationships, our work, our parenting.

Additionally, cortisol, the stress hormone, is often out of balance during menopause, either too high or too low. Cortisol affects every other hormone, and the good news is that it’s manageable with the right lifestyle changes and supplements. So yes, mental health is a huge piece of this journey, but there are ways to regain balance and feel better.

Susan Sly: 12:32

Absolutely. Sleep is the new Birkin bag, in my opinion. In my 20s, I thought I could sleep when I was dead, but now in my 50s, a good night’s sleep feels like the ultimate luxury. There’s so much misinformation about hormone replacement, and many women are still suffering because they’ve been told they shouldn’t take hormones.

I’ve read recent studies showing that hormone-related anxiety and even panic attacks are increasing. Women are left wondering, “What’s wrong with me?” Could you address that?

Camille Lawson: 15:00

Oh, definitely. For instance, I had a huge “aha moment” in my late 30s. I had never experienced PMS or any major cycle issues, but suddenly I was dealing with extreme irritability and even rage. One day, a friend canceled our golf game, and I found myself sobbing uncontrollably. This was so out of character for me, and I realized something wasn’t right.

Luckily, I found an integrative physician who taught me about bioidentical hormones. I started using natural progesterone cream, and it was like night and day. My symptoms disappeared almost overnight. So being proactive and seeking out the right information and treatments can make all the difference.

Susan Sly: 16:30

I can completely relate to that feeling of waking up, feeling emotional, and wondering, "Who am I right now?" And it’s so important for women to realize they don’t have to suffer in silence. There are options, there’s support, and just having that knowledge can be so empowering.

Now, let’s transition to another huge part of menopause that women often don’t talk about—sexual health. Vaginal dryness, loss of desire, and painful intercourse are real issues, and it’s not exactly a topic that comes up over brunch with girlfriends. So can you walk us through some of the physiological changes women experience and what they can do about them?

Camille Lawson: 17:15

You’re absolutely right, Susan. As estrogen declines, it affects all the tissues in our body, including the vaginal tissue. It’s not just about dryness; the tissue itself can become thinner, and some women even experience microtears during intercourse, which can be incredibly painful. When sex starts to hurt, it’s natural for desire to decrease, which then leads to intimacy issues in relationships.

The good news is there are solutions. For some women, simple remedies like coconut oil can provide relief, though it doesn’t work for everyone. Over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers can also help, but if the issue persists, I highly recommend looking into options like DHEA cream, which works locally to restore vaginal tissue without going systemic. Vaginal estrogen is another option, and it can be life-changing for some women. There’s a lot of stigma around hormones, but when used responsibly and under the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider, they can dramatically improve quality of life.

Susan Sly: 18:45

Absolutely. And I love that you mentioned vaginal estrogen. There’s still so much misinformation about it, and many women are afraid to even explore it. But as you said, it can make such a difference. And this is exactly why we’ll be having Dr. Lisa Larkin, the president of the North American Menopause Society, on the show later this season. She’s a double breast cancer survivor and will help debunk some of these myths about hormone therapy.

Since we’re getting real here, what should women not put in their vagina? I know you and I have had some laughs over this, but there’s also some serious stuff women need to know.

Camille Lawson: 19:30

Oh, I’m so glad you brought this up! Women often get desperate when they’re uncomfortable, and they reach for products that aren’t safe. First off, avoid anything with fragrance. Vaginas are self-cleaning, and any scented product is just going to irritate the delicate tissue.

Also, stay away from products that claim to “clean” or “flush” the area. Douche products and anything with chemicals can throw off your natural pH balance and cause more harm than good. Even sitting in highly perfumed baths can cause issues. Stick to simple, natural solutions—Epsom salts, for example, are a great alternative if you love baths. And of course, avoid anything synthetic like petroleum jelly or highly processed ingredients. Always read the labels and choose products that are specifically designed for vaginal health, ideally recommended by your healthcare provider.

Susan Sly: 20:55

That’s great advice. And speaking of being proactive, one of the things that really struck me recently is the rise in divorce rates and even mental health challenges like suicide during menopause. These are such heartbreaking statistics, and it’s all related to women feeling isolated and unsupported during this phase of life.

You’ve worked with some of the top integrative physicians in Canada. Can you talk about where this fear around hormones comes from and how it’s been holding women back for years?

Camille Lawson: 21:40

Absolutely, Susan. This fear dates back to 2002, when a large study on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was abruptly halted due to reports of increased risks of breast cancer and heart disease. Unfortunately, the study’s findings were misrepresented in the media, and the takeaway for most women and healthcare providers was that all hormones are dangerous.

What was missed was the distinction between synthetic hormones, which were used in that study, and bioidentical hormones, which are chemically identical to the ones our bodies naturally produce. Bioidenticals have been around for decades, but because of that study, many women were scared off from even exploring hormone therapy.

Fast forward to today, and we now know that bioidentical hormone therapy, when started within the first 10 years of perimenopause, can actually protect against heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in women. We also know that it can alleviate so many symptoms like brain fog, hot flashes, mood swings, and even vaginal dryness. So for women who are struggling, it’s really worth having a conversation with a healthcare provider who understands hormones.

Susan Sly: 23:10

That’s so important, Camille. And I just want to reiterate—if your healthcare provider isn’t knowledgeable about menopause or hormones, it’s okay to find another one. There are so many doctors and integrative practitioners out there who specialize in this area.

On a personal note, I remember having two-week periods with heavy bleeding that were just debilitating. For anyone going through that, you do not have to suffer. There are so many options available now—whether it’s patches, creams, oral supplements, or other modalities. But it’s also not just about the hormones, right? There’s a lifestyle component that’s equally important.

Camille, you’re an avid tennis player, and I’ve seen you crush it on the court. You just played a two-and-a-half-hour match in 35-degree Celsius weather! So let’s talk about lifestyle. What are your top tips for women in perimenopause and menopause when it comes to exercise, nutrition, and overall health?

Camille Lawson: 24:15

Thank you, Susan! Yes, I’m very competitive when it comes to tennis. But seriously, when it comes to lifestyle, it’s all about balance and consistency. You don’t have to be rigid or extreme—just commit to small, sustainable habits that make you feel great.

First, sleep is key. If you’re not getting good sleep, nothing else will fall into place. I’m a huge proponent of magnesium glycinate—it helps with sleep quality without causing digestive issues. Secondly, make sure you’re getting enough protein—around 100 grams a day for most women. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, which we naturally lose as we age. It also keeps our blood sugar stable, which is essential for mood and energy levels.

Exercise is the other big one. Whether it’s weight resistance, yoga, or simply walking, movement is essential. I know Susan is incredibly dedicated to her exercise routine, even when traveling, and it really does make a difference in how we feel, both physically and mentally. Resistance training is especially important for women as we age—it helps maintain bone density, build muscle, and even supports metabolism. And remember, it’s never too late to start! Studies show that even people in their 80s benefit from starting resistance training.

Finally, I recommend following a Mediterranean-style diet. It’s not about strict rules; it’s about choosing whole foods, avoiding processed junk, and enjoying balanced meals with good fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Life is meant to be enjoyed, so don’t deprive yourself—just make smarter choices most of the time.

Susan Sly: 26:00

I love that. It’s all about balance, like you said. And I totally agree—when I owned a health club back in the 90s, I had an 80-year-old client who started weight training at 78. She was fit, lean, and strong, and it was such an inspiration. Women shouldn’t be afraid to lift heavy weights or embrace resistance training—it’s so beneficial for overall health, especially as we age.

Before we wrap up, Camille, I hear this all the time: “My husband doesn’t understand what I’m going through.” For women whose partners may not be supportive or don’t understand menopause, what advice do you have for them in terms of communicating their needs and advocating for themselves?

Camille Lawson: 26:50

That’s such a common issue, Susan, and it really comes down to communication. Men often feel helpless because they don’t know what we’re going through, and sometimes we don’t fully let them in. We might talk to our girlfriends but not share the same level of detail with our partner, leaving them on the sidelines.

This is a time to be vulnerable, to express how you're feeling—whether it's about lack of sleep, brain fog, or intimacy struggles. Men generally want to help and support us, but they need to know what’s going on. You don’t need to go into graphic detail, but having those honest, open conversations can bring your partner on board. Explain why you might be going to bed earlier, why your desire has changed, or why you’re feeling irritable. When they understand the why, they’re more likely to be supportive.

Susan Sly: 28:00

That’s so true. Communication really is everything. And I love what you said about being vulnerable. Our partners want to support us, but we have to give them the opportunity.

And don’t be afraid to seek outside help if needed. Seeing a therapist, whether it's a sex therapist or a couples therapist, can help both partners understand and navigate this phase of life. This can be an incredible time to deepen intimacy and connection if both people are committed to understanding and supporting each other. And sometimes, when the communication doesn’t seem to be working, it’s perfectly okay to bring in a third party to help guide the conversation.

For Chris and me, we’ve found that getting out of the house for those conversations really helps. It’s easier to talk about the tougher stuff when we’re outside of the usual environment, whether it’s on a walk or over dinner somewhere. And something that’s been huge for us is setting a rule that anything difficult to talk about—finances, intimacy, whatever it might be—we discuss it away from the home. It’s been a game changer in how we approach challenges.

Also, when it comes to intimacy, sometimes you just need to switch things up. You might have preferred nighttime intimacy before, but maybe now, with the changes in your body, that no longer works. Maybe mornings or afternoons are better. Be flexible and creative. I’ve heard from so many girlfriends who say that once they’ve gotten their hormones in balance, and their kids have left the house, they’re having more sex than ever before! There’s no toddler interrupting, no teenagers hanging around. It can actually be a time of real sexual freedom.

Camille Lawson: 29:45

That’s such an important point, Susan. Many couples find that once they work through the challenges of menopause, they come out stronger on the other side. Intimacy can actually increase because, like you said, there’s more freedom and fewer distractions.

And another piece of advice I always give couples is to not underestimate the power of touch. Even if you’re not feeling up for sex, holding hands, cuddling, and giving each other a hug can release oxytocin, which is that beautiful bonding hormone. It’s a simple way to stay connected, and it often leads to more intimacy over time. Remember, intimacy isn’t just about sex—it’s about connection, trust, and playfulness.

But again, it starts with communication. Let your partner know what you’re going through. And for the men listening, I’d say don’t take things personally if your partner is going through changes. It’s not about you; it’s about the hormonal shifts that are happening. So be patient, be supportive, and be willing to listen.

Susan Sly: 30:45

That’s such great advice, Camille. And for anyone listening, especially women who are struggling, just know that you can get through this. Menopause doesn’t have to be the end of your sex life or your relationship—it can be the beginning of a new chapter. But you have to be willing to have those conversations and seek out the right solutions, whether that’s hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, or simply being open with your partner.

One last question before we wrap up. For the practitioners listening—whether they’re doctors, nurses, therapists—what would you say to them about supporting women through menopause? What do they need to keep in mind as they help women navigate this phase of life?

Camille Lawson: 31:30

That’s such an important question. For practitioners, the most critical thing is to approach each woman with compassion and curiosity. Every woman’s journey through menopause is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Some women may sail through it with minimal symptoms, while others may struggle with a wide range of issues—hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, low libido, and so on.

It’s important to really listen to what your patient or client is telling you. Sometimes women just need someone to validate their experience and assure them that they’re not going crazy, that what they’re going through is normal, and that there are solutions available.

I also encourage practitioners to stay informed. The science around hormone replacement therapy, for example, is evolving, and it’s crucial to be up to date on the latest research so that you can provide the best care possible. Many women are still afraid of hormones because of outdated information, so it’s up to healthcare providers to offer evidence-based guidance.

And finally, encourage self-compassion. Women often feel like they have to “push through” menopause without asking for help, but they deserve support, too. Remind them that taking care of their health—whether it’s through sleep, exercise, nutrition, or therapy—is not selfish. It’s essential for their well-being.

Susan Sly: 32:50

Absolutely. That’s such great advice for practitioners. And for all the women listening, please take that to heart. You deserve support. You deserve to feel good. You deserve to enjoy this next phase of your life. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

Camille, thank you so much for being here and for sharing your wisdom. This conversation has been amazing, and I know it’s going to help so many women and practitioners alike.

For everyone listening, thank you for joining us on Episode 1 of the Menopause Health Podcast. We have so many exciting episodes coming up, including interviews with top experts like Dr. Lisa Larkin, as well as practical tips and strategies to help you thrive during menopause.

Be sure to subscribe to the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave us a comment or review. We’re here to support you on this journey, and we can’t wait to bring you more valuable content in the episodes to come.

Thanks again, Camille!

Camille Lawson: 33:45

Thank you, Susan. It’s been such a pleasure, and I’m excited for all the incredible conversations you’ll be having this season.

Voiceover: 33:55

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This transcript has been generated using AI technology. There may be minor errors or discrepancies in the text.

The opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the show or its hosts. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific health needs.