The Cholesterol Controversy: Menopausal and statins | Felice Gersh, MD and Leah Vachani

In this Women Aging Powerfully Summit interview, Dr. Felice Gersh breaks down why cholesterol often spikes during perimenopause and menopause by highlighting estradiol’s central role in regulating cholesterol synthesis, transport, and clearance. She also compares the mechanisms of statins versus hormone replacement therapy, discusses natural and lifestyle-based alternatives, outlines key blood tests to monitor, and explains gender-specific cardiovascular risks and prevention strategies. Watch for my latest Instagram lives at   / dr.felicegersh   I am a full time practicing doctor. I see patients in my office in Irvine, CA and worldwide via telemedicine. If you need more healthcare assistance than I can provide in a video series, please contact my office: https://integrativemgi.com/​​ ---- Contents of this video -------------------------- 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Why cholesterol rises in perimenopause & menopause 03:00 Estradiol’s role in systemic metabolism 06:00 Statins vs. estradiol regulation of HMG-CoA reductase 08:00 Lipoproteins, receptors & cholesterol transport 12:00 Oxidation of cholesterol & plaque formation 16:00 Hormone replacement therapy for cholesterol health 19:00 Uncoupling reproduction from hormones 23:00 Diet, fiber & natural alternatives (e.g., bergamot) 28:00 Essential lipid & inflammation blood markers to request 33:00 When to consider statins for women 38:00 Male vs. female cardiovascular disease differences 44:00 Key takeaways for holistic health management 54:00 Closing remarks & Dr. Gersh’s resources