One gynaecologist recommends HRT. Another says you don't need it. One wants hormone tests. Another says they're unnecessary. So who do you believe?

In this special World Menopause Day episode of Why Pause? Let's Play, Gayu Lewis sits down with Dr. Sadiya Hussain, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, and a British Menopause Society accredited specialist and trainer, to cut through the confusion surrounding perimenopause, menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

If you're a woman in your late 30s, 40s or 50s experiencing unexplained weight gain, brain fog, anxiety, mood swings, irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats or disrupted sleep, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why different gynaecologists give conflicting advice about menopause and HRT.
• Perimenopause vs menopause: how do you know which stage you're in?
• Can you have perimenopause symptoms even when your hormone blood tests are normal?
• When should women consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
• HRT benefits, side effects, breast cancer risks and common misconceptions.
• Can you start HRT while you're still having regular periods?
• What women should know about testosterone, vaginal estrogen and sexual health during menopause.
• Is there an ideal age to start HRT, and how long can you safely continue?
• What questions should every woman ask her gynaecologist before making treatment decisions?

From early perimenopause symptoms and menopause diagnosis to evidence-based menopause treatment, Dr. Sadiya shares medical insights to help women navigate midlife hormonal changes with greater clarity and confidence.

Whether you're exploring HRT for the first time, questioning a previous diagnosis or simply trying to understand what's happening to your body after 40, this episode will help you ask better questions and make more informed decisions with your healthcare provider.

Because menopause awareness isn't just about recognising symptoms. It's about having access to the right information and the right care.

🎙️ About the Guest

Dr. Sadiya Hussain is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, with 15 years of clinical experience and specialist training in menopause care. She is an accredited specialist and trainer with the British Menopause Society.

🎧 About the Podcast

Why Pause? Let's Play with Gayu Lewis explores women's wellness, midlife health, menopause, longevity, lifestyle and the conversations that help women live healthier, fuller lives.

If this conversation resonates with you, follow the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a woman who needs answers.

Connect with Gayu Lewis on Instagram: @GayuLewisOfficial

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your symptoms and treatment options.

World Menopause Day Special | October 18, 2026

Connect with Gayu lewis:

• Instagram: gayulewisofficial
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• Website: www.gayulewis.com

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