Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

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.

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“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

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.

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“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

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:

Dr. Maggie Sibley explains the often-misunderstood reality of women with ADHD, from evaluation and treatment to symptom management and hormonal changes.

Episode Summary

In this fascinating episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs is joined by Dr. Maggie Sibley, a renowned women’s ADHD specialist and researcher. As a clinical psychologist and professor of psychiatry at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Dr. Sibley shares her research-based knowledge and unique perspective on the often overlooked and misunderstood topic of ADHD in adult women. 

Listen as we discuss the complexities of ADHD beyond childhood, the relationship between ADHD and hormones in women with attention disorders, and practical strategies for managing ADHD symptoms across different life stages.

Key Discussion Points:

• Common misconceptions about ADHD being a children’s condition and the reality of how symptoms persist into adulthood.
• Research on the trajectory of ADHD from adolescence to adulthood and why it’s so important to recognize ADHD in adults.
• How ADHD symptoms in women manifest differently than men, including internalized symptoms like inattention and executive dysfunction. 
• Connections between societal expectations of women and why ADHD often goes undiagnosed in women until later in life.
• How women’s hormonal changes impact regions in the brain that are associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
• Ways to treat and manage adult ADHD, including lifestyle modifications, medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and personal coping strategies. 
• The importance of structure, routine, exercise, and healthy diet for effective ADHD symptom management. 
• Tips for navigating the healthcare system during the evaluation stage and treatment plans after diagnosis to ensure specialized care for women with ADHD.
• The importance of community support and further research for women with ADHD.

“Estrogen interacts with dopamine in the brain, which can significantly impact ADHD symptoms, especially during hormonal transitions like perimenopause.” - Dr. Margaret Sibley

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Mental Health
• Related episode: Living With ADHD: Your Brain’s Not Broken
• Learn more about Dr Margaret Sibley
• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): This is the major advocacy organization for ADHD, providing support, resources, and community connections for both children and adults.
• ADDA (Attention Deficit Disorder Association): This organization focuses on the adult ADHD community, offering tools, resources, and networking opportunities for adults dealing with ADHD.
• Psychology Today: A resource for finding therapists who specialize in ADHD and other psychological conditions. Dr. Sibley recommends using their therapist finder tool to locate experts who specialize in cognitive behavioral approaches and other treatments for ADHD.

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...

Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we’re joined by Dr. Mari Tassarotti, an expert in interventional radiology from Columbia University. We discuss the complexities of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), a condition characterized by chronic pelvic pain arising from varicose veins in the pelvis. 

We explore why Pelvic Congestion Syndrome remains underrecognized and often misdiagnosed. Dr. Tassarotti shares her insights on PCS diagnosis, innovative treatment options, and why seeking a second opinion can be crucial for patients navigating this condition.

Key Discussion Points

• What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) and why is it so hard to get the right diagnosis?  
• Symptoms that distinguish PCS from other conditions and why it's a hidden cause of chronic pelvic pain.
• Questions women should be asking their healthcare providers if concerned about PCS or pelvic varicose veins.
• Pelvic congestion syndrome radiology and other Innovative, minimally invasive PCS treatments that are changing the game for PCS patients, and why these options might be preferable to traditional surgical methods.
• Challenges of getting PCS recognized by the medical community and insurance providers.
• Real-life stories shared by Georgie and Dr. Tassarotti that highlight the profound impact proper diagnosis and treatment can have on women's lives. 

“It's not just about recognizing the condition but understanding the woman's journey to get here. Many have been misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely.” - Dr. Mari Tassarotti

Related to this episode:

• Resources on Pelvic Health
• Learn more about Dr. Mari Tassarotti
• Follow Dr. Tassarotti on LinkedIn and Twitter.
• Learn about Interventional Radiology and Pelvic Congestion Embolization
• Looking for an interventional radiologist?  Check out this list from the Society of Interventional Radiology.

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...

What is a baby tongue tie and how is it treated properly? Learn as Dr. Shaina Holman & Victoria Facelli share their expertise.

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, host Georgie Kovacs sits down with Victoria Facelli, an internationally board-certified lactation consultant and author of "Feed the Baby," and Dr. Shaina Holman, a dentist with a PhD in infant psychophysiology. Together, we discuss the intricate topic of tongue ties in babies. 

This conversation comes in the wake of recent New York Times articles that have brought tongue ties and their treatment into the spotlight, raising concerns and debate among new parents and healthcare professionals alike. 

Our guests bring their extensive expertise and unique perspectives to offer a nuanced understanding of tongue ties, addressing common misconceptions, the importance of multidisciplinary care, and the ethical considerations in treatment. Whether you're struggling with breastfeeding, considering tongue tie release for your baby, or simply seeking reliable information, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice. 

Key Discussion Points

• What are tongue ties and how do they affect infant feeding (breastfeeding and bottle-feeding)?
• Are there long-term effects of tongue ties (speech, sleep apnea, dental health)?
• Symptoms of tongue ties in babies 
• The surge in tongue tie diagnoses and treatments, including concerns about overdiagnosis and the role of healthcare professionals in promoting unnecessary procedures.
• Differences between scissors and laser tongue tie procedures, including benefits, risks, and factors influencing the choice of tongue tie treatment.
• The significance of a team approach involving lactation consultants, dentists, bodyworkers, and other specialists in achieving the best outcomes for babies with tongue ties.
• Navigating insurance coverage, Medicaid, and payment options for families seeking treatment for tongue tied babies.
• Information for parents on how to advocate for their babies, the importance of seeking knowledgeable and ethical providers, and resources for families with limited financial means.

"It's very common that when [babies] can't use their tongues very well, their upper lip muscles get really active... But that's not always because the structure itself is tight. It's often because the tongue is tight." 

— Dr. Shaina Holman

Related to this episode:

• Resources Perimenopause and Menopause
• Read Inside the Booming Business of Cutting Babies’ Tongues and What Parents Should Know About Tongue-Tie Releases by NYTimes
• Read reactions to the original NYTimes articles in Opinion | The Controversy Over Tongue Surgery for Infants
• Learn more about Victoria Facelli, IBCL and follow her on Instagram and TikTok
• Learn more about

Fempower Health Digest Episode Summary

Learn what happened this month in the world of women’s health! New updates go live every fourth Tuesday of the month as Georgie Kovacs, founder of Fempower Health, shares a recap of the latest news and insights. 

For more deep dives into women’s health, sexuality, wellness, and life stages, enjoy interviews with experts and change-makers every Tuesday on the Fempower Health podcast. 

And if you have a suggestion for what you want Georgie to cover next, send an email: [email protected]

Women's Health Update Highlights:

• The Gold Rush in Women's Health: Exploring the New Frontier
• Time Crunch: The Race Against the Clock in Doctor's Visits
• Empowerment Through Advocacy: Unlocking the Power of Proactivity
• AI: The Next Revolution in Women's Health
• Navigating the Maze: Systemic Challenges and Solutions in Women's Healthcare 

Resources:

• Recent podcast episodes: Listen here
• Book recommendations: Browse the Book Shop
• Sign up for the Fempower Health Newsletter

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 Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest updates and engaging content.
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our weekly newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

About Georgie

Georgie Kovacs is a seasoned professional with over two decades of healthcare expertise, having made significant contributions at...

Learn the correlation between women’s health and menopause. Dr. Lauren Streicher shares the essentials of menopause management and tips for healthy aging.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Streicher, a distinguished expert in menopause management, joins to share her insights on this important life stage. Dr. Streicher discusses the complexities of menopause, offering facts and practical advice for women. With a career dedicated to enhancing women's health, she brings a wealth of knowledge from her clinical experience, research, and as the author of several pivotal books on menopause. This conversation explores the main aspects of menopause, from symptom management to the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, and how to embrace this transformative stage of life. 

Key Discussion Points

• An overview of women’s health and menopause, including high blood pressure, joint pain, insulin resistance, sleep disturbances, and hair loss.
• The complex relationship between menopause and painful intercourse, and the importance of accurate diagnosis beyond genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
• Strategies for finding access to a menopause specialist.
• The role of estrogen in the management of menopausal symptoms.
• Potential benefits and considerations for menopause hormone therapy.
• Efficacy, precautions, and recommendations regarding cannabis for menopause relief.
• The relationship between menopause and mental health, and how this can impact cognitive function.
• How to prepare for doctor's appointments when managing menopause and wanting to address your symptoms and concerns.
• Viewing menopause and aging as opportunities to focus on health, well-being, and embracing a new chapter in life.

"The power of education cannot be understated when it comes to menopause. Understanding the changes happening in your body is the first step towards managing symptoms effectively." - Dr. Lauren Streicher

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause

• Read Dr. Streicher’s story and follow her on LinkedIn
• Midi Health: www.joinmidi.com 
• Check out Dr Streicher’s Inside Information podcast

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...

Learn how your vaginal flora and gut microbiome contribute to your reproductive health. Dr. Caroline Mitchell shares her expertise and research on this important but overlooked topic.

Episode Summary

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome. Dr. Caroline Mitchell, distinguished reproductive health researcher and faculty member at the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, shares her profound insight on why a healthy vaginal microbiome is crucial in women's health. 

With a background in Women’s Studies at Harvard College and groundbreaking research funded by prestigious organizations, Dr. Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. She explains the complexities of understanding vaginal flora, the challenges posed by bacterial vaginosis (BV), and the intriguing connections between gut health and vaginal health. 

Listen to learn about some of the most significant yet overlooked aspects of women's reproductive health. We discuss how to balance the vaginal microbiome, what to do about chronic bacterial vaginosis, use cases for a vaginal microbiome transplant, and what innovative treatments are emerging in women’s health. 

Key Discussion Points

• Why a healthy vaginal microbiome is crucial for women's overall health and how imbalances can lead to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV).
• The difficulties of limited funding and the complexity of research regarding the vaginal microbiome.
• Symptoms of BV, its limited treatment options, and common misdiagnoses such as vulvodynia.
• Yeast infection vs. BV vs. UTI symptoms.
• The impact of antibiotic use on the vaginal and gut microbiomes, plus the need for caution and further research.
• Vaginal microbiome transplants and the potential of lactobacillus crispatus in treating BV, plus the future of an at-home vaginal microbiome test.
• What to consider when looking for the best women's probiotics for vaginal health, and how to avoid unnecessary products and irritants.
• The importance of accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management for vaginal health.

"When the good kind of lactobacillus are not dominating the vaginal microbial community, people are at higher risk for preterm birth, HIV acquisition, human papillomavirus—at risk for both acquisition and progression to cervical dysplasia and potentially cancer."

 - Dr. Caroline Mitchell

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on the Gut and Vaginal Microbiome

• Follow Dr. Caroline Mitchell on Instagram and  LinkedIn. Follow her lab on Instagram.
• Learn more about Dr Mitchell’s research and consider enrolling in her clinical trials 
• MOTIF (be a donor recipient)
• MOTIF (be a donor)  
• VIBRANT study, looking at a live biotherapeutic
• Learn about the

Learn about endometriosis and pelvic health physical therapy to manage chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Caitlyn Tivy shares her experience and expertise to help women find relief.

Episode Summary

In this final episode of Fempower Health's four-part series on endometriosis, Dr. Caitlyn Tivy, a distinguished pelvic health physical therapist, shares the intricacies of managing endometriosis and pelvic pain. With a foundation in biomedical research and specialized training in pelvic floor physical therapy, Dr. Tivy emphasizes the importance of patient involvement, holistic treatment strategies, and the role of emotional health in physical well-being. She highlights innovative developments in telemedicine and the exploration of the vaginal microbiome as promising avenues for future advancements in pelvic health care. We discuss the intersection of physical health, PTSD, and trauma history in pelvic pain treatment. 

Key Takeaways

• How combining manual therapies, patient education, and at-home care can lead to significant improvements in managing endometriosis pelvic pain
• Why being an active participant in your endometriosis treatment plan can dramatically impact pain management 
• How telehealth is breaking barriers to access pelvic pain treatment, offering new hope to those in remote or underserved areas
• The latest research on how the vaginal microbiome impacts pelvic health and what it means for the future of pelvic pain treatment
• How the brain and nervous system contribute to your experience of endometriosis and pelvic pain
• Why consulting with a pelvic floor physical therapist post-surgery can improve your recovery process
• Myths around pelvic floor exercises like Kegels vs. their appropriate role and application in pelvic pain therapy
• A complex story about an endometriosis patient and the multifaceted approach to her recovery

"How can we turn down that person's fire alarm so that the rest of their body isn't getting inundated by this irritating stimulus? Even if someone hasn't had surgery or doesn't intend on having surgery—or is not a candidate for some reason—there's still a lot that we can do to help people manage their ‘pain’ alarm system. We can create self-care strategies that keep their alarm quiet long-term."

 - Dr. Caitlyn Tivy

Related to this episode:

• Resources for Endometriosis
• Follow Caitlyn Tivy on  LinkedIn and her website
• Part 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support
• Part 2 of 4: Endometriosis Care, Treatment Options, and Patient Advocacy

Part 3 of 4: Endometriosis Surgery, Recovery, and Personalized Care

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