LISTEN AGAIN: When Intimacy Hurts: Navigating Solutions for Chronic Vulvar Pain | Dr. Jill Krapf

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.
3. Share with...

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

LISTEN AGAIN: When Intimacy Hurts: Navigating Solutions for Chronic Vulvar Pain | Dr. Jill Krapf

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, host Georgie Kovacs sits down with Dr. Jill Krapf to discuss the complexities of vulvodynia, a condition affecting millions of women worldwide. Dr. Krapf delves into the various aspects of vulvar pain, offering deep insights into its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments. By breaking down the condition into understandable segments, this episode sheds light on a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and misdiagnosis, aiming to empower women with knowledge and actionable advice.

Key Takeaways

1. Overview of Vulvodynia: A comprehensive discussion on what vulvodynia is, its commonness, and the necessity of raising awareness and understanding among both patients and healthcare providers.
2. Diagnostic Difficulties: An exploration of the challenges in diagnosing vulvodynia, including stories of women who visit multiple healthcare providers without receiving a proper diagnosis or effective care.
3. Diverse Treatment Approaches: Insight into various treatment methods for managing vulvodynia, including hormonal, physical, and nerve-related therapies, highlighting the importance of tailored treatment plans.
4. Educational Importance in Women's Health: Emphasis on the crucial role of education in improving women's health outcomes, aiming to enhance the dialogue between patients and healthcare professionals.
5. Navigating Healthcare for Specialist Care: Advice on how to access specialist care for vulvodynia, including tips on finding the right specialists and making the most of available healthcare resources.

Quote

“When a woman comes to me and she says, 'I have burning, irritation, rawness, discomfort in this area, mainly with insertion, with intimacy, with sex,' but also, she may have discomfort at other times too—maybe inserting a tampon is uncomfortable, or maybe it's completely unprovoked, meaning you don't even have to touch the area, but just wearing tight clothing or simply sitting can be painful. These symptoms indicate a complexity that requires a thorough examination and personalized approach to treatment.” - Dr. Jill Krapf

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Sexual Health
• Learn more about Dr. Jill Krapf and follow her on Instagram
• Learn about Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders - Offers comprehensive information and resources on vulvar pain.
• Check out International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH) - Provides educational resources for providers and patients.

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

Fempower Health Digest: Honoring National Infertility Awareness Week | April 2024

Episode Description:

Join host Georgie Kovacs in this poignant episode of Fempower Health, as she shares her personal infertility journey during National Infertility Awareness Week. Georgie recounts her four-year quest to conceive, which involved navigating numerous healthcare systems, enduring misdiagnoses, and undergoing various fertility treatments until she finally became a mother. Alongside her compelling narrative, she answers frequently asked questions about infertility, and explores cutting-edge advancements in women's health and fertility. This episode offers a unique blend of personal experiences and professional insights, aimed at empowering listeners to advocate for effective fertility care.

Key Takeaways:

1. Early and Accurate Diagnosis in Infertility: Georgie's story emphasizes the necessity of receiving a timely and correct diagnosis when dealing with infertility issues. Her experiences highlight the significant impact of medical diligence and proactive healthcare.
2. Self-Advocacy and Education in Fertility: Throughout her fertility journey, Georgie exemplified the need for patients to advocate for themselves and seek comprehensive information. Her proactive approach in demanding further testing and second opinions illustrates the importance of self-advocacy in fertility treatments.
3. Diverse Fertility Treatment Options: Georgie explored an array of fertility solutions, from IVF and IUI to embryo banking and surgeries. Her journey underscores the need for personalized fertility treatment plans and the availability of multiple options to suit individual circumstances.
4. Innovations in Fertility and Women's Health: The episode discusses technological advancements in fertility treatments, such as at-home IUI kits and fertility tracking applications. These innovations have revolutionized fertility management, offering new possibilities and greater control to individuals facing fertility challenges.
5. Emotional Aspects of Infertility: The psychological impact of infertility is a central theme in Georgie’s discussion. She talks about the emotional challenges, societal pressures, and the importance of finding support through resources like Resolve: The National Infertility Association. This takeaway stresses the need for emotional support and community in navigating infertility.

This episode not only sheds light on the complex and often heartbreaking journey towards parenthood but also offers valuable insights and resources for those navigating similar paths.

Mentioned in this episode: / Resources:

• Fempower Health’s resources on infertility and trying to conceive
• Organizations providing trusted resources and support: American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Resolve: The National Infertility Association
• Examples of fertility tracking tools/devices: PROOV, OOVA and Mira Fertility 
• At-home kit for IUI - Mosie Baby
• Recent podcast episodes: Listen here
• Book recommendations: