Fempower Health Digest: Your Monthly Women's Health Update: Recap for March 2024

Women’s Mental Health: Tackling Menopause and Perimenopause | Dr. Allie Sharma

Learn about menopause and mental health from clinical psychologist Dr. Allie Sharma on the Fempower Health Podcast.

Episode Summary

While menopause is assumed to come with hot flashes and menstrual changes, there are also mental effects of menopause that are less commonly discussed. In this episode, Dr. Allie Sharma—a clinical psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health—discusses the impacts of perimenopause and menopause on mood and the brain. She emphasizes the need for education and integrated care models for women navigating this significant life transition and shares her thoughts on how this can be done.

Listen as we discuss the relationship between hormonal changes, depression/anxiety, and navigating the healthcare system during menopause. Dr. Sharma also offers expert insights on menopause mental health symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and advocating for your health at this phase of life.

Discussion Topics

• The differences between perimenopause and menopause
• The relationship between menopause and mental health issues 
• How hormonal changes can result in mental health symptoms
• Why women are at higher risk for depression and anxiety during perimenopause
• The role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in managing menopause symptoms
• How perimenopause can affect relationships and family dynamics
• Common sexual health issues during menopause and how they can be addressed
• Strategies to help you advocate for your health effectively
• How family members can better support women during perimenopause and menopause

“If you're experiencing new onset anxiety or depression in your forties, it's crucial to consider hormonal changes as a potential cause and seek appropriate treatment.” Dr. Allie Sharma

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause

• Resources and episodes on Mental Health

• Learn more about Dr. Allie Sharma and follow her on Instagram
• Referenced in the Episode: CNN Article on Perimenopause and Mental Health 
• Reference in the Episode: Penn Ovarian Aging Study (POAS)

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on iTunes or Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on iTunes or

Beyond Reproduction: The Broader Health Impacts of Estrogen and Progesterone | Dr. Jerilynn Prior

Originally Published October 25, 2021. Inspired by an upcoming episode with Dr Prior about perimenopause, specifically, I thought it important to revisit the need to understand the important roles of BOTH estrogen AND progesterone.

We’ve all been told about the powerful effects of estrogen on a woman’s reproductive cycle. But more people are now learning that progesterone is equally as important. With so much research and discussion regarding hormone imbalances in women today, experts confirm that these two female sex hormones are critical to more than just sex and pregnancy— they’re vital to every woman’s health.

In this episode, Dr. Jerilynn Prior of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR) shares essential information about the roles that estrogen and progesterone play in not only ovulation but basic health. She explains why hormone imbalance is so important to confront, and how hormones impact overall wellness from heart health to bone health to mood. She offers some insight into how women’s hormones change throughout various stages of life, from puberty to menopause. 

Discussed in this episode:

• The difference between estrogen and progesterone
• Understanding estrogen vs progesterone in the menstrual cycle
• The role of estrogen and progesterone in bone health, breast and endometrial cancer risk, fertility, weight, and heart health
• Why balancing hormones in women is so important (regardless of whether or not you want to get pregnant!)
• Clearing up confusion on the common question: does stress impact fertility?
• Why it’s hard for women to be aware of some of this research
• How your hormone balance is defined at different ages and stages of life

“It’s important to be aware of your reproductive cycle because it’s such a key indicator of optimal health overall. It’s also important to know because if you want to have a child one day, you need to ovulate normally. Having ‘regular cycles’ is not sufficient.” - Dr. Jerilynn Prior

Related to this episode:

• CeMCOR website: Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research
• Sign up for the CeMCOR Newsletter for the latest on women’s health
• Learn more about your Hormones and Menstrual Cycle
• Dr. Jerilynn Prior’s book: Estrogen Storm Season: Stories of Perimenopause
• Recommended book: Period Repair Manual
• Recommended book: Hormone Repair Manual
• Recommended book: Sex Matters
• More on ovulation: Women’s Health and the Ovulation Cycle

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on

Pain Relief for Endometriosis | Dr. Allyson Shrikhande

Are there ways to find pain relief for endometriosis? Listen as Dr. Allyson Shrikhande shares her expert insights on a whole-person approach to pain management. 

Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs hosts Dr. Allyson Shrikhande, a specialist in pelvic rehabilitation medicine. They explore the important topic of managing pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. 

Dr. Shrikhande discusses the complex symptoms and challenges of diagnosing endometriosis, which often go beyond typical menstrual discomfort and can even affect areas such as bladder function and sexual health. They discuss innovative, non-surgical approaches to pain management, incorporating targeted treatments and lifestyle modifications. Listen to gain insights into holistic, patient-centered methods that make significant relief possible for those battling chronic pelvic pain.

Key Discussion Points:

• The diverse and often misunderstood symptoms of endometriosis
• Endometriosis’ impact on the menstrual cycle, bladder, bowel functions, and pain during intercourse
• Non-surgical methods for pelvic pain management when living with endometriosis 
• Why detecting endometriosis early can change the course of treatment and potentially lessen the need for invasive procedures
• Nerve and muscle rehabilitation treatment options that provide relief without the complications associated with surgery
• Benefits of a whole-person approach to managing endometriosis, which includes nutritional support, behavioral health, and physical therapy
• Dr. Shrikhande emphasizes the need for greater awareness and education about endometriosis among both healthcare providers and patients

"There are a lot of myths about pain management. It’s not just about pain relief; it’s about restoring function and managing the disease holistically." - Dr. Allyson Shrikhande

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Pelvic Health
• Read Beating Endo
• Try Your Pace Yoga
• Learn more about Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine and follow them on Instagram.
• Stay in touch with Dr Allyson Shrikhande and follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn.

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on iTunes or Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on iTunes or

Pelvic Floor After Hysterectomy: Preparation, Treatment, and Management | Dr. Jocelyn Wallace

Learn about the pelvic floor after hysterectomy as Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, shares her insights.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, discusses the importance of the pelvic floor in women's health. She sheds light on the pelvic floor, especially in the context of hysterectomy. 

Dr. Wallace talks about managing pelvic floor changes that can occur after a hysterectomy. She discusses the value of comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including strategies for preventing complications like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Dr. Wallace also offers practical advice on pelvic floor therapy for women, lifestyle changes, and advocating for personalized care for the pelvic floor.

Key Discussion Points on the Tie Between Hysterectomy and Pelvic Health:

• The fundamental role of the pelvic floor in supporting essential organs and maintaining women's health.
• Common pelvic floor exercises after hysterectomy and how to seek pelvic floor therapy.
• How a hysterectomy can affect pelvic floor function and increase the risk of complications like pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and sexual function.
• Why preoperative pelvic floor therapy is crucial for strengthening muscles and reducing potential complications post-surgery.
• The importance of a structured recovery plan including exercises, therapy, and lifestyle changes to optimize pelvic health after surgery.
• How to advocate for comprehensive pelvic care before and after a hysterectomy to find an approach that suits your unique health needs.
• Ways to navigate changes in sexual health post-hysterectomy.

“A hysterectomy significantly changes the pelvic anatomy. It's crucial to be aware of these changes and their potential effects on bladder and bowel function.” - Dr Jocelyn Wallace

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Pelvic Health
• Listen to Life Before and After Hysterectomy with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez
• Learn more about Dr. Jocelyn Wallace and follow her on Instagram
• Take the Pelvic Floor Questionnaire

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on iTunes or Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on iTunes or Spotify. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
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Life Before and After Hysterectomy | Dr. Zoe Rodriguez

Listen as Dr. Zoe Rodriguez shares her medical and patient-advocating expertise about life before and after hysterectomy.

Episode Summary

Join Fempower Health as we discuss hysterectomies with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez, the Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. 

In this episode, we address the misconceptions, diverse cultural perspectives, and crucial insights surrounding hysterectomies. We talk about different hysterectomy options, recovery expectations, and the significant impact of surgical choices on women's health. Whether you are considering this procedure or seeking deeper understanding, this discussion offers valuable guidance to navigate your health decisions confidently.

Key Takeaways

• The different types of hysterectomy surgery—including total, supracervical, and partial hysterectomy—and why it’s so important to know the different options.
• How cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of healthcare and surgical decisions, particularly within the Latina community.
• The importance of setting realistic expectations and being well-informed about post-surgical recovery, hormonal impacts, and sexuality after hysterectomy.
• Debunking common misconceptions that Western physicians are “eager to perform surgeries,” plus ethical considerations and patient-centric approaches adopted by modern medicine.
• Minimally invasive procedures for fibroids and other conditions that can be alternatives to hysterectomy.
• The role of informed consent and ensuring patients are fully aware of what their surgery entails, including the potential removal of ovaries and subsequent hormonal implications.
• Tips for patients on how to interact effectively with healthcare providers to ensure all their concerns are addressed.
• Dr. Rodriguez’s vision for accessible, high-quality healthcare for all, regardless of immigration or citizenship status.

Quote

“I need you to really pay attention to your symptoms because that's the only way I'm gonna know. And if you are having symptoms, then I can provide you with these beautiful menopausal hormone therapies.”

- Dr Zoe Rodriguez

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Pelvic Health and Peri/Menopause
• Learn about ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists): A leading organization in women's health care, providing guidelines and practice bulletins for medical practitioners.
• Learn about The Menopause Society: Likely referring to The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), which provides guidance and information on menopause management.
• Learn about ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine): An organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive medicine, including fertility preservation.

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on iTunes or