Podcasts about Estradiol

You call the pharmacy to refill your estradiol patch — and it's on backorder. Again. Or the brand changes every month, the adhesive won't stay on, and nobody can tell you when your medication is coming back.Estrogen patches are in shortage across the United States, and the strain is spreading to progesterone capsules and estradiol gels and creams. In this episode, Dr. Carolyn Moyers sits down with Lauren Darisse, General Counsel and COO of The HRT Club, to explain what is actually happening in the hormone therapy supply chain — and what you can do about it.In this episode:– Why estradiol patches are so hard to find, and why demand for menopausal hormone therapy has surged– Why brand consistency matters with patches — adhesives, wear time, and absorption are not interchangeable– How a direct-from-manufacturer membership pharmacy works– What to do first if your patch, progesterone, or gel is on backorder this week– How to spot a legitimate hormone therapy source onlineAbout the guest: Lauren Darisse, Esq. is the General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of The HRT Club, where she built the legal and operational infrastructure behind an insurance-free hormone therapy platform. She brings more than a decade of healthcare legal and compliance leadership from digital health companies including The Pill Club, One Medical, and Iora Health.Learn more about The HRT Club: thehrtclub.comDr. Carolyn Moyers is a board-certified OB/GYN, Menopause Society certified physician, and founder of Sky Women's Health in Fort Worth, Texas — in-person in Fort Worth and virtual across Texas and West Virginia. Learn more at skywomenshealth.com.This episode is for education only and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing hormone therapy.

Gonadal hormones have a complicated influence on appetite. Estradiol generally suppresses appetite, whereas progesterone opposes estradiol's action such that their combined presence represents a high-risk hormonal milieu for Binge Eating (BE). Testosterone is thought to be associated with increased BE in females but appears protective in males. In some reports, combination oral contraceptive (COC) use has been linked to greater BE-related appetitive processes (e.g., food intake). Now, we have 2 recent, back-to-back publications (June 2026 in JAMA Network Open, and July 2026 in Appetite) that have examined the relationship of hormonal contraception on binge eating behavior. These found seemingly opposing conclusions. Listen in for details. 1. Klump KL, Di Dio AM, Anaya C, et al. Combined Oral Contraceptive Use and Binge Eating. JAMA Netw Open. 2026;9(6):e2619047. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.190472. Katz JM, Yan R, Beltz AM, Gearhardt AN. Associations between reproductive hormonal milieus and binge eating: The roles of sex and hormonal contraceptive use. Appetite. 2026 Jul 1;222:108547. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2026.108547. Epub 2026 Mar 20. PMID: 41866083.3. Bass L, Prostináková T, Silang KG, Griffiths-Gray A, McQuilliam S, Mahon E, Whitehead A, Johnson KO. Does it hold weight? The perceived effects of contraceptive use on weight status in females: A mixed-methods study. PLoS One. 2025 Dec 29;20(12):e0339323. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0339323. PMID: 41460817; PMCID: PMC12747328.

In our first summer series episode, we review a topic that keeps coming back. Hormone therapy for menopause. It was a thing, then it stopped being a thing, now it's a thing again.   Become a supporter of our show today either on Patreon or through PayPal! Thank you! http://www.patreon.com/thebodyofevidence/ https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=9QZET78JZWCZE   Email us your questions at thebodyofevidence@gmail.com.   Editor:    Robyn Flynn Theme music: “Fall of the Ocean Queen“ by Joseph Hackl Rod of Asclepius designed by Kamil J. Przybos Chris' book, Does Coffee Cause Cancer?: https://ecwpress.com/products/does-coffee-cause-cancer   Obviously, Chris is not your doctor (probably). This podcast is not medical advice for you; it is what we call information. References:  Geographic variability of menopausal symptoms   1) Nappi RE et al. Global cross-sectional survey of women with vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause: prevalence and quality of life burden. Menopause. 2021 May 24;28(8):875-882. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000001793.    2) Nappi RE, et al.  Prevalence and quality-of-life burden of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause: A European cross-sectional survey. Maturitas. 2023 Jan;167:66-74. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.09.006.    What's the normal duration of symptoms   3) Avis NE, et al. Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. Duration of menopausal vasomotor symptoms over the menopause transition. JAMA Intern Med. 2015 Apr;175(4):531-9. doi: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.8063.  The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) studies   Rossouw JE et al. Risks and benefits of estrogen plus progestin in healthy postmenopausal women: principal results From the Women's Health Initiative randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2002 Jul 17;288(3):321-33. doi: 10.1001/jama.288.3.321.    Anderson GL et al. Effects of conjugated equine estrogen in postmenopausal women with hysterectomy: the Women's Health Initiative randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2004 Apr 14;291(14):1701-12. doi: 10.1001/jama.291.14.1701.   Decline in HRT after WHI studies   Sprague BL, Trentham-Dietz A, Cronin KA. A sustained decline in postmenopausal hormone use: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999-2010. Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Sep;120(3):595-603. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0b013e318265df42.   Danish Osteoporosis Prevention Study Schierbeck LL metal. Effect of hormone replacement therapy on cardiovascular events in recently postmenopausal women: randomised trial. BMJ. 2012 Oct 9;345:e6409. doi: 10.1136/bmj.e6409.   Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) Harman SM, et al. Arterial imaging outcomes and cardiovascular risk factors in recently menopausal women: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2014 Aug 19;161(4):249-60. doi: 10.7326/M14-0353.   Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) Hodis HN et al. Vascular Effects of Early versus Late Postmenopausal Treatment with Estradiol. N Engl J Med. 2016 Mar 31;374(13):1221-31. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1505241.    Stopping hormonal therapy   Berman RS et al. Risk factors associated with women's compliance with estrogen replacement therapy. J Womens Health. 1997 Apr;6(2):219-26. doi: 10.1089/jwh.1997.6.219.   Grady D, Sawaya GF. Discontinuation of postmenopausal hormone therapy. Am J Med. 2005 Dec 19;118 Suppl 12B:163-5. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2005.09.051.   Tapering vs. abrupt stop or hormonal therapy   Haimov-Kochman R et al. Gradual discontinuation of hormone therapy does not prevent the reappearance of climacteric symptoms: a randomized prospective study. Menopause. 2006 May-Jun;13(3):370-6. doi: 10.1097/01.gme.0000186663.36211.c0. PMID: 16735933.

The Midlife Metabolic Shift: Why Menopause Changes Your Weight, Cholesterol, and Heart HealthMost conversations about menopause focus on hot flashes, hormone therapy, and symptom relief.But there's another important transition happening beneath the surface—one that affects your metabolism, cholesterol, insulin sensitivity, body composition, and long-term cardiovascular health.In this episode of Midlife Revival, Dr. Taniqua Miller explores what she calls the midlife metabolic shift and explains why so many women begin noticing weight gain, poor sleep, rising cholesterol levels, and changes in blood sugar—even when they're doing everything "right."You'll learn why perimenopause is more than a reproductive transition. It's also a cardiometabolic transition that deserves attention long before lab values become abnormal.In This Episode: Why cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women  The connection between estrogen decline and cardiometabolic health  How estradiol, insulin, and cortisol interact during perimenopause  Why belly fat tends to increase during midlife  What rising cholesterol and blood sugar may be telling you  Why "normal" lab results don't always tell the whole story  The role of sleep, stress, and nervous system regulation in metabolic health  Why strength training and nutrition become even more important in midlife  How to think differently about prevention during the menopause transition Key TakeawayIf you've been told that your labs are "normal" but you know something feels different in your body, you're not imagining it.Perimenopause isn't simply about managing symptoms. It's a critical window for understanding and protecting your future cardiometabolic health.Coming Up NextThis episode kicks off a new series on cardiometabolic health in midlife. Stay tuned for upcoming conversations on: Nutrition for the menopausal transition  Protein and muscle health  Strength training after 40  Sleep and metabolic health  Hormone therapy and cardiovascular risk  Practical strategies to support long-term health and longevity Connect with Revival Women's HealthIf you're looking for a more comprehensive approach to midlife health—one that addresses hormones, cardiovascular health, metabolism, sexual wellness, and prevention—learn more about Revival Women's Health at Revival Women's HealthFollow Dr Taniqua Miller on Instagram @taniquamillermd and Revival Women's Health @joinrevival.Georgia listeners! Dr. Miller has created the medical wellness space for YOU! If you are over the age of 40 and looking for a medical home that listens and honors you, visit us at Revival Women's Health in Decatur, GA. joinrevival.co

Ever been mid-sentence and the exact word you need just completely vanishes? If you are in perimenopause, you've likely experienced this deeply disorienting form of brain fog. But despite what you may have been told, you are not losing your mind, and it is not "just stress." In this episode, we break down the real clinical explanations behind perimenopausal cognitive changes. We look at how fluctuating hormones affect your brain, why standard labs often miss the full picture, and how to have a more useful conversation with your doctor so you can get your sharpness back. In This Episode, You Will Learn: How shifting estrogen levels directly impact the parts of your brain responsible for memory, focus, and word retrieval. Why hormones spike and drop erratically during this transition, making a single, standard blood draw mostly useless. Why a "normal" standard thyroid test (TSH) doesn't guarantee your brain cells are actually getting the energy they need. How low iron stores mimic brain fog, and why "not anemic" is not the same thing as having enough iron for optimal brain function. The exact tests to ask for at your next appointment including a full thyroid panel, ferritin, Vitamin D, and B12 to get real answers.   Take the Why Am I So Tired assessment at whyamisotired.hopenaturalhealth.com   For more on Dr. Erin: Join The Hope Circle Community: https://hormonehealingproject.drerinellis.com/communities/groups/the-hope-circle/home?invite=69120d498b7e3f60397656b8 Work with Dr. Erin here: https://p.bttr.to/3E88ps4 Buy Dr. Erin's Supplements here: https://drerinellis.com/shop Get the Period Productivity Planner here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBYBRT5Q?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Download the FREE Menstrual Cycle Nutrition Guide here: https://detox.drerinellis.com/ Watch The Free Video "7 Hormones Affecting Your Weight Loss Goals" here: https://weightloss.drerinellis.com/ Let's Be Friends: Follow Dr. Erin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.erinellis/ Follow Dr. Erin on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drerinellisnmd Follow Dr. Erin on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.erinellis?lang=en Join the Free Hope Circle Community: https://hormonehealingproject.drerinellis.com/communities/groups/the-hope-circle/home?invite=69120d498b7e3f60397656b8 Bookmark Dr. Erin's Website: www.drerinellis.com Subscribe to Hope Natural Health on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChHYVmNEu5tKu91EATHhEiA Follow Hope Natural Health on FB: https://www.facebook.com/hopenaturalhealth Sign up for Newsletters here: https://booking.hopenaturalhealth.com/widget/form/VUubL7MNYELduwQL8ssI

If you've heard the buzz about estrogen creams but aren't sure what they actually do—or whether they're safe—this Paloma podcast episode is for you! We break down the science behind estradiol and estriol creams, two topical hormone therapies that are helping many women navigate the changes of perimenopause and menopause. From vaginal dryness and painful intimacy to urinary symptoms and skin changes, you'll learn why estrogen plays such a critical role in women's health and comfort.We also explore one of the hottest topics in midlife wellness: can estrogen creams really improve aging skin? As estrogen levels decline, collagen production drops, leading to thinner, drier, less elastic skin. Discover what the latest research says about estrogen's potential to support skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction—and where the evidence is promising.Finally, we tackle the important safety considerations every woman should know. Who is a good candidate for estrogen cream? What's the difference between FDA-approved and compounded formulations? And what should women with hypothyroidism know before starting estrogen therapy? 

Bioidentische Hormontherapie: Hype, Risiko oder echte Chance für Frauen in den Wechseljahren? In den Wechseljahren verändern Hormone mehr als den Zyklus: Prof. Dr. Petra Stute erklärt, was bioidentische Hormone leisten können, wo Risiken liegen und wann Therapie sinnvoll ist.

In this episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy breaks down one of the most misunderstood topics in hormone replacement therapy: estradiol. Not all estrogen is the same—and how estradiol is delivered can dramatically affect hormone balance, inflammation, clotting risk, testosterone levels, and overall health outcomes. Dr. McCarthy discusses: • Why route of administration matters (oral, patch, injectable, topical, vaginal, pellet) • How oral estradiol converts to estrone • The differences between estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), and estriol (E3) • Estrone's relationship to inflammation and metabolic health • Oral estrogen and clotting risk • Oral estrogen's effect on SHBG and free testosterone • The impact of oral estrogen on IGF-1 and growth hormone signaling • Why informed consent should be central to hormone therapy • Benefits and limitations of pellets, patches, creams, and injections • Estriol and emerging research in autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis At Protea Medical Center, our philosophy is simple: patients deserve complete information so they can make empowered decisions about their health.

A massage therapist notices that more clients are reporting their use of topical hormone medications. Somehow, this never came up in massage school. Is the massage therapist at risk for being dosed? It's possible, but it's nuanced. Listen for more information! Resources: Commissioner, O. of the (2021) Investigation of skin-to-skin transfer risks of topically applied transdermal hormonal drugs, FDA. FDA. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/science-research/fda-stem-outreach-education-and-engagement/investigation-skin-skin-transfer-risks-topically-applied-transdermal-hormonal-drugs (Accessed: June 3, 2026). Could Testosterone Gel Exposure Pose Risk to Close Contacts? (2025) Medscape. Available at: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/could-accidental-exposure-testosterone-gel-risk-your-close-2025a1000qpg (Accessed: June 3, 2026). Estradiol Gel: Uses & Side Effects (no date) Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20075-estradiol-topical-gel (Accessed: June 4, 2026). Hariri, L. and Rehman, A. (2026) "Estradiol," StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549797/ (Accessed: June 4, 2026). Khan, S. and Sharman, T. (2026) "Transdermal Medications," StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556035/ (Accessed: June 3, 2026). Medication Patches and Implications for Massage Therapy | ABMP (no date). Available at: https://www.abmp.com/Massage-and-Bodywork-Magazine/Issues/julyaugust-2024/medication-patches-and-implications-massage-therapy (Accessed: June 3, 2026). Should I be worried about secondary transfer risk with testosterone gels? (no date). Available at: https://www.trted.org/articles/should-i-be-worried-about-secondary-transfer-of-my-testosterone-gel (Accessed: June 4, 2026). Sjöström, K. et al. (2022) "A review of adverse events in animals and children after secondary exposure to transdermal hormone‐containing medicinal products," Veterinary Record Open, 9(1), p. e48. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/vro2.48. Types of Estrogen Hormone Therapy (no date). Available at: https://www.webmd.com/menopause/which-type-of-estrogen-hormone-therapy-is-right-for-you (Accessed: June 4, 2026). Host Bio:               Ruth Werner is a former massage therapist, a writer, and an NCBTMB-approved continuing education provider. She wrote A Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology, now in its seventh edition, which is used in massage schools worldwide. Werner is also a long-time Massage & Bodywork columnist, most notably of the Pathology Perspectives column. Werner is also ABMP's partner on Pocket Pathology, a web-based app and quick reference program that puts key information for nearly 200 common pathologies at your fingertips. Werner's books are available at www.booksofdiscovery.com. And more information about her is available at www.ruthwerner.com.     Sponsors: Anatomy Trains is a global leader in online anatomy education and also provides in-classroom certification programs for structural integration in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, Japan, and China, as well as fresh-tissue cadaver dissection labs and weekend courses. The work of Anatomy Trains originated with founder Tom Myers, who mapped the human body into 13 myofascial meridians in his original book, currently in its fourth edition and translated into 12 languages. The principles of Anatomy Trains are used by osteopaths, physical therapists, bodyworkers, massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and other body-minded manual therapists and movement professionals. Anatomy Trains inspires these practitioners to work with holistic anatomy in treating system-wide patterns to provide improved client outcomes in terms of structure and function.     Website: anatomytrains.com     Email: info@anatomytrains.com           Facebook: facebook.com/AnatomyTrains                      Instagram: www.instagram.com/anatomytrainsofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2g6TOEFrX4b-CigknssKHA    Precision Neuromuscular Therapy seminars (www.pnmt.org) have been teaching high-quality seminars for more than 20 years. Doug Nelson and the PNMT teaching staff help you to practice with the confidence and creativity that comes from deep understanding, rather than the adherence to one treatment approach or technique. Find our seminar schedule at pnmt.org/seminar-schedule with over 60 weekends of seminars across the country. Or meet us online in the PNMT Portal, our online gateway with access to over 500 videos, 37 NCBTMB CEs, our Discovery Series webinars, one-on-one mentoring, and much, much more! All for the low yearly cost of $167.50. Learn more at pnmt.thinkific.com/courses/pnmtportal!  Follow us on social media: @precisionnmt on Instagram or at Precision Neuromuscular Therapy Seminars on Facebook.   Save your hands for the smaller structures and start getting your clients underfoot! At the Center for Barefoot Massage, we teach you how to enhance your pressure using gravity and physics and help your clients recover from persistent pain through nerd-level anatomical attention to detail—we just happen to use our feet to do it all! From the slow, down-regulating glides of our FasciAshi Fundamentals strokes to the proprioceptive "pattern-interrupts" of our Barefoot Matwork techniques and the resisted movements from our Stretch Therapy class, we offer a complete suite of evidence-based tools for deep, myofascial Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage—we nicknamed our approach "FasciAshi." Worried about your body size in relation to your clients? Our innovation—the suspended Ashi-strap—allows a more diverse population of massage therapists to regulate and vector their weight and pressure distribution with clinical precision, making deep work effortless on a variety of client bodies. At the Center for Barefoot Massage, we believe the future of massage is afoot! Find when and where our CE classes are happening next at centerforbarefootmassage.com.    

Perimenopause, Insulin Resistance, and Persistent Muscle & Joint Pain: A Functional Medicine Framework: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses perimenopausal musculoskeletal symptoms—new or persistent joint pain, muscle aches, and tendon problems—and highlights a Clinician's Journal article by physical therapist Tara Moore proposing insulin resistance screening in perimenopausal musculoskeletal care. She explains that declining estradiol during the menopausal transition can worsen insulin signaling, increase visceral fat, and reduce insulin sensitivity, affecting skeletal muscle recovery and potentially contributing to tendinopathies and poor or short-lived responses to localized treatments like PT. The framework emphasizes assessing systemic metabolic contributors (e.g., sedentary behavior, high-carbohydrate nutrition patterns, PCOS, central weight gain, stress, sleep disruption) and addressing mediators such as inflammation and impaired glucose utilization. She suggests integrating metabolic risk assessment, sleep and stress strategies, resistance training, and interdisciplinary referrals, arguing that nutrition and supplementation—especially a low-carb approach—may improve recovery and pain outcomes.

Send us Fan MailEstradiol patches on backorder, progesterone capsules hard to find, and a lot of anxious scrolling in between. Speaking of Women's Health Podcast host Dr. Holly Thacker recorded this because the hormone therapy supply chain is colliding with a surge in demand, and too many women are getting stuck without a plan. She walks through what's actually driving the patch shortage, how WHI-era fear still shows up in exam rooms, and why “everyone needs a patch” is just as misleading as “no one should take hormones.”If you can't get your usual prescription, you'll hear concrete alternatives: switching patch schedules, considering gels or sprays, using combined estrogen-progestin products, and when nonhormonal therapies for hot flashes and sleep may fit. She ends with a simple preparedness point: don't wait until the last refill day to protect your health. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's struggling to get her meds, and leave a review so more women can find evidence-based menopause care.Support the show

Nutrition Nugget! Bite-sized bonus episodes offer tips, tricks and approachable science. This week, Jenn is talking about Senobi breathing, a Japanese breathing technique that headlines are claiming can help you lose weight. The buzz is based on a 2010 study from Japan that found some pretty compelling hormonal and body-composition changes in participants who practiced this simple one-minute exercise three times a day. Could a few deep breaths in a specific posture really shift your metabolism, activate your nervous system, and burn body fat? Jenn digs into the actual study, breaks down what Senobi breathing is, why it might work, and what the science does and does not actually tell us. She sees the intrigue, but does she buy it? Like what you're hearing? Be sure to check out the full-length episodes of new releases every Wednesday. Have an idea for a nutrition nugget? Submit it here: https://asaladwithasideoffries.com/index.php/contact/ RESOURCES:Become a Happy Healthy Hub MemberJenn's Free Menu PlanA Salad With a Side of FriesA Salad With A Side Of Fries MerchA Salad With a Side of Fries InstagramTick…Tick…BOOMKEYWORDS: Jenn Trepeck, Nutrition Nugget, Salad With A Side Of Fries, Health Tips, Wellness Tips, Breathwork and Metabolism, Senobi Breathing Weight Loss, Senobi Breathing, Breathing Technique For Weight Loss, Japanese Breathing Exercise, Sympathetic Nervous System, Parasympathetic Nervous System, Fight Or Flight Response, Noradrenaline, Breathwork And Metabolism, Deep Breathing Benefits, Nervous System Balance, Body Fat Percentage, BMI, Stress Response, Rest And Digest, Brown Fat Activation, Basal Metabolic Rate, Posture And Metabolism, Thoracic Spine Breathing, Scapula Position, Breathing Before Meals, Habit Stacking, Eustress, Good Stress, Heart Rate Variability, Urinary Hormone Secretion, Estradiol, Growth Hormone, Abdominal Breathing, Chest Opening, Weight Loss Tips, Natural Weight Loss, Hormone Balance, Wellness Podcast, Nutrition Nugget, Breathing Exercises For Women, Metabolic Health, Mind Body Connection, Stress And Weight Gain, Breathing And Cortisol, Women Over 40 Weight Loss, Japanese Breathing Exercise For Weight Loss Women Over 40, Does Senobi Breathing Help Lose Body Fat

What happens when three menopause podcasters sit down together with zero intention of staying surface level? You get a smart, honest, hilarious, and deeply validating conversation about some of the biggest midlife topics women are trying to figure out right now. In this roundtable episode, we get into bone health, hormone testing, HRT mistakes, libido, trauma, desire, and the much bigger cultural story around what menopause is actually meant to be. We talk openly about why so many midlife women feel disconnected from sex, why female arousal is so misunderstood, and how much emotional baggage, conditioning, and nervous system overload shape the whole experience. And finally, we end on a much bigger and more hopeful note: maybe menopause is not a decline at all. Maybe it is a threshold into wisdom, authority, healing, and a version of womanhood our culture has forgotten how to honor. In this episode, we cover: Why more women in their 40s and 50s are discovering osteopenia and low bone density earlier than expected The difference between DEXA scans and REMS scans, and why bone quality matters, not just bone density Estradiol, bone protection, and why some women may need more than a tiny dose of HRT The debate around testing hormones in perimenopause and why symptoms alone do not always tell the full story Why thyroid, cortisol, DHEA, progesterone, and estrogen symptoms can overlap in confusing ways What can go wrong when women are given HRT without the right assessment or follow-up Why libido is far more complex than just low testosterone or low desire How guilt, fear, shame, trauma, and nervous system overload affect female arousal Why so many women feel "broken" around sex when they are actually having a very normal response The spiritual and cultural meaning of menopause as a transition into wisdom, power, and authority Who this episode is for This episode is for women in perimenopause and menopause who want a more honest conversation about what is really happening in midlife. It is especially for women who are worried about bone loss, confused about hormone testing, frustrated by bad HRT experiences, struggling with libido, or craving a more empowering way to think about menopause than the usual narrative of decline.

Watch Here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0G-nZ777Jy8 Website: https://vigoroussteve.com/ Consultations: https://vigoroussteve.com/consultations/ eBooks: https://vigoroussteve.com/shop/ YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/VigorousSteve/ Workout Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWi2zZJwmQ6Mqg92FW2JbiA Instagram: https://instagram.com/vigoroussteve/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vigoroussteve Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/VigorousSteve/ PodBean: https://vigoroussteve.podbean.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wR0XWY00qLq9K7tlvJ000 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/vigoroussteve

This episode dives into the world of Progesterone and Estrogen in a way that will help you understand what all the fuss is about. Bioidentical hormones, versus synthetic, are discussed and will leave you with a host of questions to bring to your next fertility appointment. As promised, Podcast Host Heather has provided her link to join her email subscriber list and grab her top tip to conceive now! Click here: Grab my tip! TRIGGER WARNING: This show may discuss sensitive topics that are difficult for some listeners to hear. Use your own discretion. Reminder: This podcast is not intended to treat, or advise, your medical journey in anyway. Always discuss all things medical with your own medical team. Heather is a Doctor, but she's not yours. Nothing in this podcast episode constitutes health, or medical (physical or mental) advice. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. See full website disclaimer at https://canyoucurecancer.com/disclaimer If you'd love to hear your company's advertisement read on this podcast by Heather for Season 4, or you'd like to hear your own pre-recorded ad run during the show, email Heather to see if Sponsor space is still available. If you have topics you want covered on this podcast, email Heather at the email below. Heather's email is heather@canyoucurecancer.com Thank you for all of the listens, shares, follows and downloads! If you haven't yet, don't forget to subscribe, so you never miss an episode! Letting just one friend know about an episode that inspired you will help me immensely, while passing on the inspiration to someone you love! My listeners are the absolute best, thank you for always supporting me. Keep returning and remember to subscribe in case additional weekly episodes are added, so that you never miss a show!

Anne-Marie shares the brutal perimenopause story that pulled her into this beat — years of nightmares, anxiety, gut issues, ER visits for chest pain and headaches, and a parade of doctors who never said the word "perimenopause." She and the Hindmarshes unpack why this is a clinical diagnosis, not a lab diagnosis, and why a single hormone panel is a snapshot of a movie that's swinging wildly day to day. The conversation lands hard on a key point: if your life was working a year ago and now it isn't, you don't need a blood test — you need someone to guide you through it. From there, the episode digs into the hormone-therapy pendulum. Anne-Marie walks through at least ten different prescribing belief systems — from estradiol-maximalists to Ray Peat-style progesterone-first practitioners to rhythmic physiologic dosing — and why the claim that HRT prevents dementia and cardiovascular disease isn't supported by the evidence (the 2024 Lancet Commission on Dementia notably did not recommend it). They tackle the relative-risk-vs.-absolute-risk shell game that lets influencers and clinicians dress up modest data as "whopping" reductions, the cradle-to-grave logic problem of birth control followed by lifelong HRT, and why doctors-as-influencers is becoming a public health concern of its own. The episode closes with the unglamorous fundamentals — sleep, nervous system regulation, fascia work, and finding a clinician who treats the whole person — and where to find Anne-Marie's reporting. -- Check out Aurmina — a highly rated natural water purification solution made from ionic minerals sourced from volcanic rock.

Blood Sweat & Gear 343 is a no-BS bodybuilding coaching Q&A with Skip Hill, Andrew Berry, and Scott McNally, breaking down real-world training, PED use, and contest prep. This episode dives into the controversial strategy of starting a cutting cycle with tren, plus insulin use, fat loss, and staying healthy while enhanced. 0:00 Tren to Start a Cutting Cycle? (Controversial Strategy Explained) 0:30 Blood Sweat & Gear Coaching Q&A – Sponsors & Intro 1:10 Why Use Tren Early in a Cycle for Strength & Momentum 4:25 Fitness “Telephone Game” – How Misinformation Spreads 5:55 Bodybuilding on Paper vs Real-World Results 9:25 Starting a Cycle Earlier to Build Motivation 17:15 Monitoring Heart Rate During Cardio for Fat Loss 23:45 Insulin Use in Bodybuilding: IM vs SubQ Differences 26:15 Is Roid Test Legit? Steroid Testing Explained 31:40 Female Bodybuilder to Follow for Mass & Progress 32:45 Do You Need a Diet Break During Aggressive Fat Loss? 42:30 Managing Blood Pressure While Using PEDs 46:45 Does Equipoise Affect Estrogen? Estradiol vs Estrone 49:00 Sleep Medications During Contest Prep 56:45 Mixing Water-Based and Oil-Based Steroids Safely 1:00:25 Natty vs Enhanced Dieting Differences Explained 1:03:30 Top Natural Bodybuilder to Watch 1:11:00 Behind the Scenes + Final Thoughts

In 2018, for Cindy Koerner, pain in her right breast led to a diagnosis of Stage 3A breast cancer.  She was put on a three-pronged, high-dosage chemotherapy regimen of epirubicin, nab-paclitataxel and cyclophosphamide.  The cyclophosphamide compromised her immune system, resulting in fatigue and fever.  The chemo regimen shut down her ovaries, but when they became active about a year later, Cindy was told if they remained active, the possibility of a relapse would increase, so she opted to have them removed.  These days, Cindy believes her health is at approximately 80 percent of what it was before her diagnosis, but she admits she gets tired easily, which prevents her from doing activities that she thinks would leave her exhausted.   Cindy's cancer journey began in 2018 when she felt pain behind the nipple in her right breast.  The pain would leave, only to return when her menstrual cycle returned.  She saw her gynecologist, who called for an ultrasound, which the doctor said did not reveal anything abnormal.  When the pain continued to come and go, she went back to the gynecologist.  Another ultrasound, the gynecologist said revealed nothing unusual.   However, in 2020, she noticed a change in the shape of her breast and that it included a dimple.  Another trip to the doctor and another scan indicated a tumor and a diagnosis of Stage 3A breast cancer.  Cindy later learned that such a diagnosis should have provided her with multiple treatment options, but at the time her care team told her she would be going on an aggressive regimen of chemotherapy.  Because of the advent of COVID, treatment was made more difficult for Cindy from an emotional perspective because she had to remain in isolation.   The regimen included epirubicin, nab-paclitaxel and cyclophosphamide.  She had to come in for a dosage every two weeks.  Like many on chemotherapy, Cindy suffered hair loss, but she said the cyclophosphamide was the roughest.  It played havoc with her immune system, leading to fatigue, fever and depression.  However, this was not the only hurdle in her journey.   Cindy's tumor was hormone receptor positive, which reacted to the estradiol in her body.  This had implications for her ovaries.  The chemo had rendered them inactive, but about a year later, they became active again.  She was told when the ovaries are active, that increases the possibility of the cancer returning.  As a result, with injections of zoladex, a GnRH analogon, she opted to have her ovaries removed.   Cindy Koerner has returned to work as a cancer biologist with the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg.  She says her health is about 80 percent of what it was before her diagnosis and there are some activities she avoids because she fears they would leave her exhausted.   Cindy is also a cancer patient advocate.  Among her messages to patients is to have a heightened awareness of their treatment options, which she admits she didn't have at the time of her diagnosis.      

Is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for perimenopause/menopause an option for you if you've had a blood clot before or have a family history of blood clots?If you don't want your options for treating perimenopausal symptoms and decreasing your risk for the chronic diseases of aging to be limited without so much as an informed discussion because you're at an increased risk for blood clots, or if you've been worried about blood clots as a possible side effect of hormone replacement therapy, today's episode is for you.  You're going to know more than most doctors about the details of this by the end of the episode.Get peace of mind around your own hormone choices at midlife by clicking heremy website: www.healthcouragecollective.commy email: healthcouragecollective@gmail.comAre you ready to give your cells their best chance to not have to stop living before they die by allowing them access to physiologic levels of hormones, but aren't sure how to even get started?  Join the waitlist for my new beta program here and help me figure out how best to help wonderful women like you get the hormone care they deserve!Join the Waitlist HereCome visit me: www.healthcouragecollective.comemail me: healthcouragecollective@gmail.com

If YOU'RE ready to make real, sustainable change in your life, jump on a free call with us - https://physiquedevelopment.typeform.com/to/ToP9TYLEIn the last episode, Coach Alex broke down how estrogen actually leaves the body. Today, he takes it one layer deeper. Because even when estrogen is clearing properly, you can still feel off—dealing with mood swings, poor sleep, anxiety, and cycles that feel like they're working against you... All while your labs come back "normal."This is where the conversation shifts. Because "normal" on paper and optimal in the body are not the same, and the missing piece is often how we're looking at hormones. Most approaches isolate them, instead of understanding how they interact.Alex dives into estrogen regulation—how hormones communicate, why symptoms can persist despite "normal" labs, and what your body is actually responding to beneath the surface. Because your hormones aren't broken, they're simply responding to the signals they're receiving.Have questions for future episodes or a topic you'd like us to cover? Submit them here - https://forms.gle/AEu5vMKNLDfmc24M7As always, it is our goal not only to supply you, the listener, with valuable insights on the topics or questions but also to plant some seeds for further research and thought. Be sure to like and subscribe and leave us a review wherever you're listening if you loved this episode!Timestamps:(0:00) Today's topic(1:17) The problem with normal hormone panels(2:54) What these hormones do in the body(6:43) The things we should ACTUALLY be looking for(7:34) Where we want the ratio to be(9:06) Why this ratio is so important(9:40) The main causes of suppressed ovulation quality(11:11) The negative effects of low progesterone(12:50) How we can start to fix this(14:41) The most important takeaway & your next stepsThe REAL Reason Your Estrogen Won't Go Down - https://pod.fo/e/3abc66OPTIMIZE Your Muscle-Building:Why You're Not Building Muscle Even Though You Lift Weights - https://pod.fo/e/3542c6Why You DON'T Need a Huge Surplus to Build Muscle - https://pod.fo/e/358b03How to Build Muscle While MINIMIZING Fat Gain (Part 1) - https://pod.fo/e/35d759How to Build Muscle While MINIMIZING Fat Gain (Part 2) - https://pod.fo/e/361fc8How Long Should a Muscle‑Building Phase Really Last? - https://pod.fo/e/366a56Follow us on Instagram:Coach Alex - https://www.instagram.com/alexbush__Coach Sue - https://www.instagram.com/suegainzPhysique Development - https://www.instagram.com/physiquedevelopment_Physique Development Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/physiquedevelopmentpodcast----Produced by: David Margittai | In Post MediaWebsite: https://www.inpostmedia.comEmail: david@inpostmedia.com© 2026, Physique Development LLC. All rights reserved.

Our fav Buzzkill babes Lizz and Moji are coming at ya this week with incredible topics and incredible guests! First off- We truly owe them a debt of gratitude — they took one for the feminist team, and watched the Netflix Inside the Manosphere documentary so we don't have to. Warning: after listening, be prepared for the overwhelming urge to jump in the shower and scrub the misogyny off for the next 12 hours. We've Got THE Guests To Balance Out The Misogynistic Malarkey! The perfect antidote to the Manosphere? The MENOSPHERE! Joining the Buzzkills this week are Alicia J. Rose, host and creator of the Menopunks Podcast, and menopause specialist, Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan to talk all things menopause. From entirely-too-moist night sweats to your entirely-too-dry ‘gina, Moji and Lizz have the perfect guests to talk about all the downs and dirties of the ‘pause trifecta: peri, meno, and post-meno. PLUS: Sometimes you just have to choose to laugh about it (when you're done raging your way through a hot flash), and our fav pre-perimenopausal comedian and star of the hysterical comedy special, I Don't Wanna Work Anymore, Phoebe Robinson, is going to crack you tf up! If you can't laugh about it, what the hell else are you gonna do?  Tune in for the menopause minutiae, stay for the comedy!  Times are heavy, but knowledge is power, y'all. We gotchu.    OPERATION SAVE ABORTION: You can still join the 10,000+ womb warriors fighting the patriarchy by clicking HERE for past Operation Save Abortion trainings, your toolkit, marching orders, and more.   HOSTS: Lizz Winstead IG: @LizzWinstead Bluesky: @LizzWinstead.bsky.social Moji Alawode-El IG: @Mojilocks Bluesky: @Mojilocks.bsky.social SPECIAL GUESTS: Phoebe Robinson IG: @dopequeenpheebs Alicia J. Rose IG: @menopunks / @ajrhq Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan IG: @portlandmenopausedoc / @thedustymuffins / @m.powercollective   GUEST LINKS: TICKETS: Phoebe's Tour Dates Phoebe's Linktree Tiny Reparations Books WATCH: Phoebe's Special “I Don't Wanna Work Anymore” SUBSCRIBE: Phoebe's Substack Alicia's Website MENOPUNKS Website MENOPUNKS Youtube Alicia's Vimeo Dr. Aofie's Linktree The Dusty Muffins Youtube M Power Collective Website   NEWS DUMP: Missouri Senator Josh Hawley Introduces Bill To Ban Abortion Pill Police Charge Woman With Murder for Allegedly Taking Abortion Pill, Even Though State Law Says They Can't Could a Registry of Doctors Who Refuse Abortions Improve Access in Spain?   EPISODE LINKS: Call Your Reps to Stop the Comstock Act! ADOPT-A-CLINIC: Blue Mountain Clinic in Missoula, MT Operation Save Abortion Expose Fake Clinics BUY AAF MERCH! EMAIL your abobo questions to The Feminist Buzzkills AAF's Abortion-Themed Rage Playlist   FOLLOW US: Listen to us ~ FBK Podcast  Instagram ~ @AbortionFront Bluesky ~ @AbortionFront TikTok ~ @AbortionFront Facebook ~ @AbortionFront YouTube ~ @AbortionAccessFront TALK TO THE CHARLEY BOT FOR ABOBO OPTIONS & RESOURCES HERE! PATREON HERE! Support our work, get exclusive merch and more!  DONATE TO AAF HERE! ACTIVIST CALENDAR HERE! VOLUNTEER WITH US HERE! ADOPT-A-CLINIC HERE! GET ABOBO PILLS FROM PLAN C PILLS HERE! When BS is poppin', we pop off! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if menopause is one of the most important longevity events in human biology, and we've been ignoring it?Dr. Matt Kaeberlein sits down with Dr. Jennifer Pearlman, founder of PearlMD and pioneer in female-centric longevity medicine, to unpack why women's health has been systemically underfunded, undertreated, and misunderstood and what a proactive approach actually looks like.From the flawed science behind the Women's Health Initiative to the nuts and bolts of hormone optimization, testosterone for women, and the emerging field of ovarian tissue cryopreservation, Dr. Pearlman brings 20+ years of clinical expertise and a framework she calls FemSpan: harnessing the unique biology of female longevity while mitigating the risks most medicine ignores.Timestamps:00:00 — Cold open00:47 — Welcome & Dr. Pearlman's origin story02:33 — Why the medical system fails women08:37 — How the women's health landscape has shifted over 20 years09:26 — The Women's Health Initiative: what went wrong13:07 — What drove the reemergence of menopause medicine14:38 — Big Pharma, funding, and the micronized progesterone question17:13 — "Medicine progresses one funeral at a time"18:01 — From functional medicine to precision medicine20:35 — Rebranding aging: from anti-aging to longevity23:50 — Navigating the gray zone between frontier and fringe27:46 — How to identify credible practitioners33:32 — What every woman should know about the menopause transition36:41 — Why take a proactive approach? Symptoms, disease risk, and aging38:19 — The two simultaneous biology processes of menopause41:46 — The role of FSH and hormone optimization43:28 — Estradiol as the body's regenerative signal47:24 — What to test and when50:38 — The metabolic theory of menopause55:08 — Visceral fat as an evolutionary adaptation57:26 — How to navigate hormone therapy01:00:24 — Bioidentical hormones: reclaiming the term01:06:45 — Why route of administration matters01:11:35 — Progesterone: the unsung hero of menopause management01:23:19 — Testosterone for women: what the science actually says01:34:25 — Introducing FemSpan: the female longevity framework01:37:55 — The biological aging advantages women carry01:46:46 — Can we close the healthspan gap?01:53:05 — Could reversing menopause extend female lifespan?02:00:29 — Regenerative medicine and the future of female longevity02:03:10 — Ovarian tissue cryopreservation explained02:10:39 — AI in women's precision medicine02:15:50 — Medicine at scale: opportunity and risk02:21:41 — Advanced cardiovascular diagnostics and the female gap02:24:22 — Closing thoughts: your aging trajectory is more in your control than you think

In this video, Dr. Doug breaks down the research on estradiol levels and how hormone therapy can influence bone density. He reviews clinical data comparing different estradiol dosing strategies and explains why hormone needs vary from woman to woman. The discussion also explores whether adding testosterone provides additional benefit for bone health. Most importantly, he highlights why optimizing hormones must be individualized rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.Study Linkshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10321913/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24905063/

Most menopause conversations focus almost entirely on hormones. But what if that's only part of the story? In this episode, Sally Garozzo explores emerging neuroscience on estradiol, fear circuitry, and trauma exposure, including a 2025 study suggesting that estrogen interacts differently with the brain's threat regulation system depending on prior stress and trauma history. We unpack why HRT helps many women but isn't always the whole answer, how the nervous system shapes our menopausal experience, and why understanding the intersection of menopause, trauma, and nervous system regulation can offer a more complete picture of midlife wellbeing.Research referenced in this episodeStevens JS et al. (2025). Estradiol modulation of threat circuitry and PTSD vulnerability. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12745815/Sartin-Tarm A et al. (2020). Estradiol Modulates Neural and Behavioral Arousal in Women With PTSD. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7606348/Glover EM et al. Estrogen and extinction of fear memories. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25796471/Wegerer M et al. (2014). Low estradiol and fear extinction responses. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4256064/Zeidan MA et al. (2011). Estradiol enhances fear extinction recall via vmPFC–amygdala interaction. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3197763/******************************************Work with me 121:  www.sallygarozzo.comJoin Becoming Waitlist:  www.sallygarozzo.com/becoming Send me a direct messageSupport the showSend me a direct messageSupport the show

"Hormones—what is the deal with them?"In this special solo episode, Dr. Rachel Pope pulls back the curtain on the world of hormone therapy (HT). While we know that hormones are vital for cardiovascular health, bone density, and quality of life, there is still so much the medical community is uncovering about the "perfect" dose and duration for the average woman.Dr. Pope gets personal in this episode, sharing her own recent experience with perimenopausal symptoms—from heart palpitations to her first-ever migraine—and how tracking her cycle led her to a life-changing realization about estrogen fluctuations.In this episode, we break down: The "Extreme" Ends of Menopause: Why early menopause (POI) and late menopause both carry significant health risks and what they teach us about the power of estrogen. Hormone Breakdown: What do Estradiol, Progesterone, and Testosterone actually do for your sleep, mood, anxiety, and libido? Systemic vs. Topical: Why a patch might help your hot flashes, but you might still need a cream or ring for vaginal and bladder health. The Perimenopause "Storm": How the week before your period reveals the first signs of hormonal decline (and why you might not need a million different medications to fix it). The Safety Debate: A candid look at the Women's Health Initiative data, breast cancer risks, and why Dr. Pope isn't "batting an eye" at low-dose transdermal estrogen for healthy women. The DEXA Scan Dilemma: Why waiting until age 65 for a bone density scan might be too late, and why Dr. Pope advocates for earlier screening.Key Takeaways: You are an individual: There is no "one size fits all" for how long you should stay on hormones. It requires a yearly conversation with your doctor to weigh your unique risks vs. benefits. Prevention is key: Hormone therapy isn't just about stopping hot flashes; it's about protecting your heart, brain, and bones for the long haul. It's not the "Fountain of Youth": While hormones are underutilized, they aren't a cure-all. Balanced medical care still means addressing mental health and lifestyle alongside HRT.Are you curious if your symptoms are "just aging" or actually perimenopause? Subscribe and listen to Our Womanity as we dive deeper into these topics with world-class experts throughout this series!

Welcome to this week's Midlife Minute episode. We're focusing on the importance of having good mental health today. Statistics show that women are experiencing increased anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts during midlife, yet the stigma around mental health remains surprisingly strong. Join me as I explore the science behind this, why it's happening, and the importance of empowering yourself to demand better care. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The issues that contribute to the midlife mental health challenges women are experiencing How sleep disruptions in perimenopause increase anxiety, depression, and irritability The metabolic and endocrine factors that can compound mood instability in midlife Why perimenopause is a neurological as well as reproductive transition The evidence-based benefits of HRT for supporting mental health The role of estrogen in brain function and emotional regulation Why HRT is especially important for women experiencing abrupt or early menopause Some practical guidance for using HRT to support mental health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow. Cynthia's Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line References: Effects of Estradiol Withdrawal on Mood in Women With Past Perimenopausal Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2298235)  Efficacy of Estradiol in Perimenopausal Depression: So Much Promise and So Few Answers (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/da.22391) Effects of Hormone Therapy on Cognition and Mood (https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(14)00178-2/fulltext) Does Menopause Hormone Therapy Improve Symptoms of Depression? Findings From a Specialized Menopause Clinic  A Meta-analysis of the Effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy upon Depressed Mood (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306453096000340?via%3Dihub) The Effect of Hormone Replacement Therapy on Cognition and Mood (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cen.14856)

Watch Here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUm5cNXXau4 Website: https://vigoroussteve.com/ Consultations: https://vigoroussteve.com/consultations/ eBooks: https://vigoroussteve.com/shop/ YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/VigorousSteve/ Workout Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWi2zZJwmQ6Mqg92FW2JbiA Instagram: https://instagram.com/vigoroussteve/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vigoroussteve Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/VigorousSteve/ PodBean: https://vigoroussteve.podbean.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wR0XWY00qLq9K7tlvJ000 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/vigoroussteve

Send a textThe biology of fat tissue, estrogen's role in metabolism and health, and how exercise interacts with these processes, especially during menopause.TOPICS DISCUSSED:Adipose tissue basics: White fat primarily stores energy in large lipid droplets, while brown fat burns fatty acids for heat via high mitochondrial density; white fat can “brown” with exercise or certain foods like capsaicin.Fat distribution & health: Subcutaneous fat (under skin) is more insulin-sensitive and less problematic than visceral fat (around organs), which links to metabolic issues; females store more subcutaneously pre-menopause, shifting to visceral post-menopause.Estrogen signaling: Estradiol binds nuclear and membrane receptors to regulate gene expression and mitochondrial function; it enhances insulin sensitivity and browning in fat cells, with receptors like ER-alpha feminizing fat distribution.Fat storage: Fat cells enlarge (hypertrophy) more than multiply in obesity, leading to hypoxia, inflammation, and insulin resistance; excess fatty acids spill to liver and muscle, worsening metabolic dysfunction.Menopause effects: Estrogen drop causes visceral fat gain, reduced energy expenditure, insulin resistance, and higher metabolic disease risk; symptoms include hot flashes and reduced exercise motivation, modeled in rodents via ovary removal.Exercise & estrogen links: Exercise boosts estrogen receptor expression and mitochondrial density in fat, mimicking estrogen's browning effects; synergism may explain reduced exercise responsiveness post-menopause.Brain-fat connections: Estrogen in the nucleus accumbens influences exercise motivation and fat browning; manipulations there alter running behavior and adipose metabolism in rodents.ABOUT THE GUEST: Victoria Vieira-Potter, PhD leads a lab at the University of Missouri, studying how estrogen and exercise influence adipose cells.RELATED EPISODE:M&M 174 | Adipose Tissue & Body Fat: Obesity, Insulin, Leptin, Fertility, Weight Loss & GLP-1 Drugs | Sean HartigSupport the showHealth Products by M&M Partners: SporesMD: Premium mushrooms products (gourmet mushrooms, nootropics, research). Use code 'nickjikomes' for 20% off. Lumen device: Optimize your metabolism for weight loss or athletic performance. MINDMATTER gets you 15% off. AquaTru: Water filtration devices that remove microplastics, metals, bacteria, and more from your drinking water. Through link, $100 off AquaTru Carafe, Classic & Under Sink Units; $300 off Freestanding models. Seed Oil Scout: Find restaurants with seed oil-free options, scan food products to see what they're hiding, with this easy-to-use mobile app. KetoCitra—Ketone body BHB + electrolytes formulated for kidney health. Use code MIND20 for 20% off any subscription (cancel anytime) For all the ways you can support my efforts

Watch Here : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8M-kPa-0UI Website: https://vigoroussteve.com/ Consultations: https://vigoroussteve.com/consultations/ eBooks: https://vigoroussteve.com/shop/ YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/VigorousSteve/ Workout Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWi2zZJwmQ6Mqg92FW2JbiA Instagram: https://instagram.com/vigoroussteve/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vigoroussteve Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/VigorousSteve/ PodBean: https://vigoroussteve.podbean.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wR0XWY00qLq9K7tlvJ000 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/vigoroussteve

So much of fertility and pregnancy care focuses on the baby — but what actually happens after birth? And what happens if you have PCOS, once the appointments slow down and the support fades for the mother or birthing parent?PCOS isn't just about fertility. It affects metabolism, insulin sensitivity, inflammation, mental health, and long-term cardiometabolic health. Postpartum is often where all of those pieces collide.In this episode, we talk honestly about why postpartum with PCOS often feels harder than expected — and why that doesn't mean your body is broken or failing. We cover:• The hormone shifts that happen postpartum (often quietly)• Why PCOS symptoms can show up months later• Breastfeeding and PCOS — what the research shows and where support matters• Why “dieting harder” backfires postpartum• What recovery-focused nutrition and care can look like instead Whether you're newly postpartum, months in, breastfeeding, or wondering why your body isn't responding the way you expected — this episode is for you. If you're listening and wishing you had more structured support during this phase, our 12-week PCOS Recovery Program is designed to support people with PCOS through real-life transitions with education, practical tools, and bi-weekly coaching. Our next cohort starts February 18th. Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear it! Leave a rating, review and share with a loved one. ReferencesCarretero-Krug A, Montero-Bravo A, Morais-Moreno C, Puga AM, Samaniego-Vaesken ML, Partearroyo T, Varela-Moreiras G. Nutritional Status of Breastfeeding Mothers and Impact of Diet and Dietary Supplementation: A Narrative Review. Nutrients. 2024 Jan 19;16(2):301. doi: 10.3390/nu16020301. PMID: 38276540; PMCID: PMC10818638. Dukic J, Johann A, Henninger M, Ehlert U. Estradiol and progesterone from pregnancy to postpartum: a longitudinal latent class analysis. Front Glob Womens Health. 2024 Oct 9;5:1428494. doi: 10.3389/fgwh.2024.1428494. PMID: 39444825; PMCID: PMC11496150.

Are you feeling irritable, gaining weight, can't sleep, or struggling to hold it together? You might be having perimenopausal symptoms. Dr Deb shares how women over 30 can navigate fluctuating hormones and get back to feeling like themselves,

Could you discuss GABA for insomnia and sleep support?  Are there long-term health benefits?What impact does a cocktail of pharmaceutical drugs have on the microbiome?Can I take more than 2 daily doses of Dr. Ohira's probiotics?Which is the correct estrogen to take in HRT?  Estriol or estradiol?In light of the recent EPA proposal to double permissible formaldehyde emissions, how does this jibe with MAHA?

Top stories of 2025Does the use of statins lead to muscle loss?I have mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation. Should I increase my supplement dosages?

Shawn & Janet Needham R.Ph. have Dr. Nicole Lovat on the podcast to discuss if oral estradiol causes clots. Dr. Nicole Lovat Website | https://fireflymedical.net Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/fireflymedical Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/fireflymedical X | http://www.x.com/fireflymed Health Solutions Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/health_solutions_shawn_needham/ TikTok | https://www.tiktok.xcom/@healthsolutionspodcast Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/HealthSolutionsPodcast Moses Lake Professional Pharmacy Website | http://mlrx.com.com/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/MosesLakeProfessionalPharmacy/ Shawn Needham X| https://x.com/ShawnNeedham2 Shawn's Book | http://mybook.to/Sickened_The_Book Additional Links https://linktr.ee/mlrx

Click HERE to learn how a world class hormone replacement therapy regimen is put togetherYou understand that whether or not to take estrogen matters to your experience of perimenopause and menopause.  But a question you might not be asked is how you want to take your estrogen.  And the answer matters.  Estrogen pills produce different effects in your body than topical estrogen (via a cream or a patch), and if you want the best hormone replacement regimen for you, you need to understand what those differences are and that you have a choice.My website: www.healthcouragecollective.comAre you ready to give your cells their best chance to not have to stop living before they die by allowing them access to physiologic levels of hormones, but aren't sure how to even get started?  Join the waitlist for my new beta program here and help me figure out how best to help wonderful women like you get the hormone care they deserve!Join the Waitlist HereCome visit me: www.healthcouragecollective.comemail me: healthcouragecollective@gmail.com

In this episode Dr. Danielle is sharing her top tips for understanding and managing your PCOS in 2026 including symptoms to track, key labs to request from your doctor, and simple nutrition and lifestyles to incorporate for a strong foundation of health.To self order labs through Dr. Danielle's lab shop, click the links below:PCOS Comprehensive Lab Bundle (Does not include LH, FSH, Estradiol, or Progesterone)LH, FSH, and EstradiolProgesteroneLet's ConnectInterested in becoming a client? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule your strategy call here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter here!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order Your Own Labs - LabShop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fullscript Supplement Dispensary⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Send us a textNeurobiology of maternal care in mammals: hormonal influences, stress effects & a study on psilocybin's unexpected effects during the postpartum period.Topics Discussed:Maternal care behavior in rodents: Nursing, pup retrieval, grooming, and nest-building, essential for altricial pups' survival; conserved across mammals but varies by species.Hormonal changes in pregnancy: Estradiol and progesterone surge then drop at birth, crossing the blood-brain barrier to enable infant attraction and care via gene expression and neuroplasticity.Brain circuitry for parenting: Medial preoptic area acts as a central hub, coordinating motivation and sensory inputs; present in both sexes but activated differently by hormones and experience.Stress impacts on mothers: Social stressors like male intruders dysregulate care, leading to frantic behaviors and avoidance; models human psychosocial stress linked to postpartum mood disorders.Sex differences in pup care: Mothers groom male pups more, influencing sexual behaviors, which effects future behavior.Psilocybin in postpartum mice: Single dose increased anxiety in mothers, showed no antidepressant effects, and transferred via milk, causing long-term anhedonia and impairments in offspring as adults.Serotonin system development: Early exposure to serotonergic drugs like psilocybin or SSRIs alters lifelong behavior, highlighting sensitive periods in brain reorganization.Practical Takeaways:Reduce postpartum stress through social support to enhance maternal bonding and minimize mood disorder risks.Approach psychedelics cautiously during postpartum due to potential anxiety increases and offspring effects via milk.Recognize hormonal shifts heighten sensitivity to infant cues, aiding natural caregiving instincts.Monitor environmental factors like food availability or threats that could disrupt parental behaviors in high-stress scenarios.About the guest: Danielle Stolzenberg, PhD is an associate professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis, where her lab studies the neurobiology of maternal care.Reference Paper:Study: Psilocybin during the postpartum period induces long-lasting adverse effects in both mothers and offspringRelated Episode:Support the showAffiliates: Lumen device to optimize your metabolism for weight loss or athletic performance. MINDMATTER gets you 15% off. AquaTru: Water filtration devices that remove microplastics, metals, bacteria, and more from your drinking water. Through link, $100 off AquaTru Carafe, Classic & Under Sink Units; $300 off Freestanding models. Seed Oil Scout: Find restaurants with seed oil-free options, scan food products to see what they're hiding, with this easy-to-use mobile app. KetoCitra—Ketone body BHB + electrolytes formulated for kidney health. Use code MIND20 for 20% off any subscription (cancel anytime) For all the ways you can support my efforts

The Benefits of Matcha for Women in Menopause: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the potential benefits of matcha for women going through menopause. She explains how matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, offers higher concentrations of antioxidants, amino acids, and phytonutrients compared to regular green tea. These properties can help support cognitive function, mood stabilization, cardiovascular health, and weight management. The episode also touches on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing an anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, restful sleep, and meaningful social connections. Leyla highlights how simple daily rituals, such as enjoying a cup of matcha, can provide emotional grounding and routine for women navigating menopause.

In this episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center, dives deep into estrone, one of the three key estrogens, and explains why understanding it is crucial for women's health. Learn about: The differences between estradiol, estriol, and estrone How estrone levels shift during perimenopause and menopause Why oral estrogen can dramatically increase estrone The impact of lifestyle factors like diet, body fat, stress, alcohol, and sedentary behavior on estrogen balance Practical tips to support healthy estrogen metabolism naturally Dr. McCarthy breaks down complex biochemistry in a clear, actionable way so you can take charge of your hormonal health.   Citations: 1. Bulun, Serdar E., et al. “Aromatase and Estrogen Biosynthesis in Adipose Tissue.” Endocrine Reviews, vol. 23, no. 3, 2002, pp. 305–342. 2. Labrie, Fernand, et al. “Importance of the Intracrinology of Estrogen Synthesis in Peripheral Tissues in Postmenopausal Women.” Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, vol. 118, nos. 4–5, 2010, pp. 273–279. 3. Sasano, Hironobu, and Toshihiko Harada. “Differential Expression of Aromatase and 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Isoenzymes in Human Tissues.” Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, vol. 86, no. 3–5, 2003, pp. 327–333. 4. Yager, James D., and Nancy E. Davidson. “Estrogen Carcinogenesis in Breast Cancer.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 354, no. 3, 2006, pp. 270–282. 5. Cavalieri, Ercole L., and Eleanor G. Rogan. “Depurinating Estrogen-DNA Adducts, Mechanisms of Formation, and Prevention.” Clinical Cancer Research, vol. 16, no. 3, 2010, pp. 596–602. 6. Suba, Zsuzsanna. “Circulating Estrogens and Estrogen Metabolism in Obese Women.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, vol. 98, no. 11, 2013, pp. 4336–4344. 7. Simpson, Evan R., and Konstanze C. Pike. “Aromatase Expression in Adipose Tissue: Relationship to Obesity and Insulin Resistance.” Endocrinology, vol. 156, no. 9, 2015, pp. 3422–3435. 8. Key, Timothy J., et al. “Circulating Sex Hormones and Breast Cancer Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women: Reanalysis of 13 Studies.” British Journal of Cancer, vol. 105, no. 5, 2011, pp. 709–722. 9. Stanczyk, Frank Z., et al. “Oral, Transdermal and Injectable Hormone Therapy: Pharmacokinetics and Effects on Estrone/Estradiol Ratios.” Menopause, vol. 24, no. 9, 2017, pp. 1080–1090. 10. Santen, Richard J., et al. “Estrogen Bioidentical Hormone Therapy: Route of Administration and Risk.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, vol. 105, no. 7, 2020, pp. 2062–2074. 11. Zeleniuch-Jacquotte, Anne, et al. “Postmenopausal Levels of Estrone, Estradiol, and Estrone Sulfate and Breast Cancer Risk.” Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, vol. 23, no. 8, 2014, pp. 1531–1539. 12. Dall, Gabriella V., and Christine L. Clarke. “Local Estrogen Biosynthesis and Signaling in Breast Cancer Progression.” Steroids, vol. 78, no. 7, 2013, pp. 639–646. 13. Heald, Anthony H., et al. “Relationships Between Serum Estrone, Insulin Resistance, and Adiposity in Postmenopausal Women.” Clinical Endocrinology, vol. 67, no. 3, 2007, pp. 340–345. 14. Kuiper, George G. J. M., et al. “Estrogen Receptor β Selectivity of Estriol and Implications for Tissue-Specific Effects.” PNAS, vol. 94, no. 17, 1997, pp. 9105–9110. 15. Michnovicz, Joseph J., et al. “Dietary Indoles and Estrogen Metabolism: Effects of Cruciferous Vegetable Intake.” Journal of Nutrition, vol. 134, no. 12, 2004, pp. 3479S–   Dr. Brendan McCarthy is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Arizona. With over two decades of experience, he's helped thousands of patients navigate hormonal imbalances using bioidentical HRT, nutrition, and root-cause medicine. He's also taught and mentored other physicians on integrative approaches to hormone therapy, weight loss, fertility, and more. If you're ready to take your health seriously, this podcast is a great place to start.  

In this powerful episode, I was interviewed by Rita De Michele, host of Beyond Diagnosis Podcast and the founder of Beyond Diagnosis Directory, a platform connecting people worldwide with trusted functional, integrative, holistic health professionals and mindset coaches.With a background in Master-level NLP and emotional empowerment, Rita bridges mindset, innovation, and healthcare to help people discover root-cause solutions and new pathways to healing beyond conventional approaches.A passionate advocate for “our health, our choice,” she is building a global movement that empowers both practitioners and health seekers to collaborate toward genuine healing and lasting wellbeing.For too long, couples have been told:“You've been trying for 12 months. You're infertile.”But what if infertility isn't a final diagnosis — it's a symptom?In this conversation, I break down the truth about fertility testing, hormone cycles, and the deep connection between your body's sense of safety and your ability to conceive. You'll discover why so many lab tests are done incorrectly, how toxins and lifestyle play a role, and what your doctor might have missed.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro: The Fertility Conversation You Need to Hear04:12 – Why infertility is often misdiagnosed09:35 – How most hormone labs are done at the wrong time13:00 – The truth about IVF and why it's not the first solution18:25 – What your fertility labs should actually include (FSH, LH, Estradiol, AMH)25:10 – Infertility as a symptom, not a diagnosis30:45 – Environmental toxins that silently affect reproduction (BPA, phthalates, glyphosate)38:10 – How GMO and seedless foods can harm fertility45:20 – Lifestyle factors that sabotage fertility without you realizing52:00 – Thyroid, Hashimoto's & methylation issues: the hidden root causes1:03:15 – Male fertility: why sperm health matters just as much1:15:00 – The 4R Method: Reveal, Remove, Rebalance, Receive1:25:40 – The “safety signal” that helps your body conceive naturally1:32:00 – Simple daily fertility practices you can start today

Episode 161.2: Pharmacies, Peptides, BPC 157, Intestinal Flora, Zone 2 Cardio, Ethinyl Estradiol, Rebel Distillers Collection, and Hog Hunting

Karen tackles a common menopause question: oral vs. topical estradiol. She explains first-pass metabolism and why transdermal options can lower clot, gallstone, and side-effect risks for many, then compares real-world choices.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

If you've been told your AMH is “too low” for your age, or that it means your chances of conceiving are slim, this episode is for you. AMH is not the final word on your fertility, it's a marker that can give us valuable clues about your health. You'll learn: What AMH levels typically look like across different ages. Why low AMH deserves closer attention. Which additional labs give a fuller picture beyond AMH alone. How women in our Fab Fertile community have conceived with their own eggs even with AMH as low as 0.02 ng/mL. I'm Sarah Clark, founder of Fab Fertile. For over a decade, my team and I have helped hundreds of couples improve their chances of pregnancy success, whether naturally or through IVF. We specialize in supporting those with low AMH, high FSH, diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and recurrent pregnancy loss through functional testing and personalized fertility strategies. This episode is especially for you if: You've been told your AMH is too low and donor eggs are your only option. You've had failed IVF cycles and want to understand if AMH is playing a role. You want to learn how to interpret AMH through a functional fertility lens, not just a conventional numbers-only approach. Not sure where to start? Download our most popular guide: Ultimate Guide to Getting Pregnant This Year If You Have Low AMH/High FSH it breaks everything down step by step to help you understand your options and take action For personalized support to improve pregnancy success, book a call here. --- TIMESTAMPS [00:00] AMH: What the Numbers Really Mean  [00:01:00] Who This Helps: Low AMH, High FSH, DOR, POI, Failed IVF [00:01:50] AMH Levels by Age: Cleveland Clinic Benchmarks Explained [00:02:40] Does AMH Predict Pregnancy? Egg Quantity vs. Egg Quality [00:03:20] Functional Fertility Lens: What Low AMH Is Signaling [00:04:20] Tests Beyond AMH: Day-3 FSH, Estradiol, and AFC Ultrasound [00:05:40] Thyroid & Fertility: Optimal TSH, Free T4/T3, Antibodies (+ Free Guide) [00:07:20] Hidden Inflammation: hsCRP, Homocysteine, MTHFR & Egg Quality [00:08:50] Vitamin D, Iron & Ferritin: Nutrient Deficits That Lower AMH [00:10:40] Gluten/Celiac & Autoimmunity (ANA) + When to Pause IVF & Heather's Success --- RESOURCES

Episode 334 of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses her upcoming book tour for 'The Menopause Moment' and dives into the relationship between menopause, hormones, and skin health. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how hormonal changes during menopause affect skin quality and overall health, advocating for the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to mitigate these effects. The conversation highlights the need for better education on the benefits of hormones and challenges misconceptions surrounding their use. Takeaways The Menopause Moment book is available for pre-order. Estradiol and Estriol can be beneficial for skin health. Skin changes during menopause are significant and often distressing. Hormones play a crucial role in skin quality and health. There is a lack of awareness about the effects of low hormones on skin. HRT can improve skin elasticity and hydration. Many women are not informed about hormone therapy options. The decline in estrogen leads to decreased collagen and moisture in the skin. Preventative health measures should be supported, including hormone therapy. Skin Paper by Viscomi et al Want more honest, empowering conversations like this one?⁠⁠⁠⁠Preorder my Next Book⁠⁠⁠⁠ share this episode, and leave a review to help others find this important work. Let's stop leaving women out of the conversation—especially when it comes to sex, health, and healing. Listen to my Tedx Talk: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why we need adult sex ed⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waitlist is open⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Midi Women's Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinmidi.com To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 334 of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses her upcoming book tour for 'The Menopause Moment' and dives into the relationship between menopause, hormones, and skin health. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how hormonal changes during menopause affect skin quality and overall health, advocating for the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to mitigate these effects. The conversation highlights the need for better education on the benefits of hormones and challenges misconceptions surrounding their use. Takeaways The Menopause Moment book is available for pre-order. Estradiol and Estriol can be beneficial for skin health. Skin changes during menopause are significant and often distressing. Hormones play a crucial role in skin quality and health. There is a lack of awareness about the effects of low hormones on skin. HRT can improve skin elasticity and hydration. Many women are not informed about hormone therapy options. The decline in estrogen leads to decreased collagen and moisture in the skin. Preventative health measures should be supported, including hormone therapy. Skin Paper by Viscomi et al Want more honest, empowering conversations like this one?⁠⁠⁠⁠Preorder my Next Book⁠⁠⁠⁠ share this episode, and leave a review to help others find this important work. Let's stop leaving women out of the conversation—especially when it comes to sex, health, and healing. Listen to my Tedx Talk: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why we need adult sex ed⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Waitlist is open⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Thanks to our sponsor ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Midi Women's Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.joinmidi.com To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, I am excited to welcome you to AMA #13. In this AMA episode, I cover a wide range of topics, including satellite stem cells and the importance of strength training as estrogen and testosterone levels decline. I also answer many questions about hormone replacement therapy, offering general explanations and resources rather than medical advice. Join me for another information-packed AMA session. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why strength training and sufficient protein intake are essential when your estrogen and testosterone levels drop Importance of HRT for women experiencing mood disorders What reverse dieting is, and how it is more challenging for middle-aged individuals than younger people Benefits of testosterone for muscle building and executive function How low estrogen levels impact the body When should you start taking estrogen? How reduced satellite cell activity during menopause can impair muscle repair and regeneration   The value of progesterone, beyond the uterus What are peptides, and why are they important? How GLP-1s can assist blood flow and immune regulation, and support tissue regeneration Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Research Links: Estrogen Regulates the Satellite Cell Compartment in Females Sarcopenia and Menopause: The Role of Estradiol (2021)/Frontiers in Endocrinology Previous Episodes Mentioned: Ep. 470 Your Midlife Hormone Survival Guide with Dr. Amy Killen Ep. 198 Dispelling Myths about Hormone Replacement Therapy with Dr. Bluming and Carol Tavris Ep. 448 Hair Loss in Women: Causes, Fixes & Expert Tips with Dr. Omer Ibrahim Ep. 463 Midlife Body Masterclass: Strength, Bone, Metabolism with Dr. Vonda Wright, Dr. Stacy Sims, Dr. Shannon Ritchey, and Debra Atkinson Ep. 406 Protein, Creatine, and Training for Menopause and Beyond with Dr. Stacy Sims Ep. 386 Muscle Strength in Menopause: Key Tests & Lifestyle Measures with Dr. Vonda Wright Ep. 456 Why Muscle Matters: Metabolism, Myths & More with Dr. Shannon Ritchey Ep. 321 Muscle, Bone & Joint Health in Menopause with Debra Atkinson Recommended Books: Estrogen Matters by Dr. Avrum Bluming and Dr. Carol Tavris

You've been told your labs are “normal,” but your period is MIA, ovulation's a no-show, and pregnancy is STILL not happening. In today's episode, we're busting the myth that normal labs = everything is fine. If your body is showing clear signs that something's off, you need more than a copy-paste lab report—you need real answers, and a plan that honors YOUR body's needs. We're breaking down the most important labs for period loss and fertility (like FSH, LH, Estradiol, AMH, and more), what they actually mean, and why “low-normal” isn't the green light it seems. If you're being gaslit with the phrase “everything looks fine,” this episode is exactly what you need to listen to. Mentioned in today's episode: Nourish Your Body for Fertility Series (Part 1, 2, 3 and 4) Today's episode is brought to you by our exclusive program, Premier Period Recovery for Fertility. Reach out to chat 1-1 with me to see if it's exactly what you need to get your period back and get pregnant in 2025, by applying here. Not ready yet for our premier program, but you are ready to take action to restore your fertility today? Purchase your fertility clarity package here. This period recovery method will change your life...and I've laid it all out for you in my NEW free course, Restore Your Fertility in 90 Days (or less). Download and watch it today! Please note that this podcast is not meant to be used for nutritional, medical or individualized advice and should be used for education only.

I'm joined by board-certified general surgeon Dr. Lee Howard, who walked away from traditional medicine. Why he feels traditional medicine doesn't really help its patients plus we cover what supplements are good for everyone to take, how to navigate allergy season with kids, what the heck the MTHFR gene is, how we should be approaching our kids' health, why were gonna start to hear more and more about creatine, ways we can help the aging process, plus perimenopause and menopause- how to minimize symptoms and recognize when we start to enter that stage. And we cover once and for all what those silly eye twitches are from. Clip 3: Low Testosterone and Alzheimer's RiskMost people think of testosterone as a hormone that just affects sex drive or muscle mass. But the brain is actually one of its biggest targets. A massive 2023 study from the University of Sydney looked at older men and found something shocking: men with low testosterone had a 26% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. And we're not talking about late-stage life—these patterns start decades earlier. Testosterone helps regulate inflammation in the brain, supports memory circuits, and even promotes the growth of new neural connections. When levels drop too low, especially without being noticed, the brain becomes more vulnerable to decline. Here's the kicker: most men never get their levels checked. And if they do, the 'normal range' is often outdated or way too broad. What's normal for a 75-year-old is not what you want at 45. I've had women come in concerned about their partner's mood, irritability, even motivation—and it turns out his testosterone was tanked. If you're in a long-term relationship and your partner is acting like a different person, you're not imagining it. And getting his hormones evaluated might be the missing link to helping him feel like himself again—and preventing cognitive decline down the line.Study source: University of Sydney & Neuroscience Research Australia (2023)https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.1252Clip 5: Gut Health and MoodThere's a direct, two-way communication line between your gut and your brain—and researchers now believe that the gut may play just as much of a role in mental health as the brain itself. A major review from 2024 showed that people with poor gut diversity were significantly more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, even when diet and lifestyle were controlled. Why? Because 90% of your serotonin is actually made in your gut. If your microbiome is inflamed or out of balance, your body literally has fewer raw materials to make feel-good brain chemicals. On top of that, gut inflammation sends stress signals to your brain—keeping you in a low-level “fight or flight” state, even when nothing's wrong. And if you've ever felt brain fog, irritability, or sadness after a weekend of sugar and alcohol… this is why. What's exciting is how quickly you can make a shift. Just increasing your fiber, adding fermented foods, or taking the right probiotic can make a measurable difference in just a few weeks. This isn't woo. This is the future of psychiatry. And if you've done therapy, made lifestyle changes, but still don't feel right—check your gut. It might be where your healing needs to start.Study source: Review from the Polish Society of Gastroenterology (2024)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11811453Clip 8: Hormone Imbalances and MarriageYou'd be shocked how many couples come into my office thinking they have a communication problem—when what they really have is a hormone problem. He's irritable, unmotivated, maybe withdrawing. She's exhausted, anxious, snapping at small things. They think they've grown apart. They think the spark is gone. But when we test their hormones—testosterone, cortisol, DHEA, thyroid—what we find is that their biochemistry is off. And once we start restoring balance, everything shifts. The mood improves. The intimacy returns. The little things don't feel so overwhelming. We now have solid evidence that hormonal health directly impacts emotional regulation, sexual desire, and even empathy. And if both partners are dysregulated, it can feel like the marriage is falling apart—when really, it's just that their physiology is out of sync. This isn't a relationship failure. It's a hormone crisis. And once you name it, you can fix it. I've seen couples on the brink of divorce completely turn things around—because we stopped blaming each other and started healing their bodies.Study source: APA + American Journal of Men's Health (2023–24)https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15579883231166518Clip 11: Whole Milk in Schools Might Actually Be SmarterFor decades, schools have pushed low-fat or skim milk, based on outdated beliefs about fat and weight. But new evidence is flipping that script. A growing body of research now shows that children who drink whole milk are actually less likely to be overweight than those drinking low-fat milk. Why? Because fat makes food more satisfying. It helps with blood sugar regulation and keeps kids fuller longer—so they're less likely to snack on junk later. In 2025, there's increasing pushback from pediatricians and nutrition researchers against the one-size-fits-all low-fat approach. Some school districts are already considering bringing whole milk back, and they're seeing better nutrition outcomes. Whole milk also contains essential nutrients like vitamin D and calcium in more bioavailable forms, especially when paired with fat. It's time we stop fearing fat—especially when the data shows that cutting it hasn't actually reduced childhood obesity. In fact, we may have made things worse. So if your kid likes whole milk, don't feel guilty. It might just be the more nourishing option after all.Study source: Associated Press report (2025)https://apnews.com/article/e4868fdc2dc4e85aeb9375edcd27da49Clip 13: Hormone Fluctuations and Depression in WomenOne of the biggest blind spots in women's health is how powerful hormone fluctuations are—especially on mood. A 2025 study published in Biomedical Reports found that estrogen and progesterone shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause play a massive role in rates of depression. This isn't just anecdotal. These hormonal changes alter brain chemistry, sensitivity to stress, and even how the body processes trauma. In puberty, many girls who were previously confident begin to struggle with mood and self-esteem—but instead of checking hormones, we tell them to tough it out. In postpartum, we're finally starting to talk about depression more—but the hormonal crash that happens after birth still catches most women off guard. And in perimenopause, where mood swings and anxiety often resurface, women are still too often told it's “just part of aging.” It's not. It's biology. And the good news is, once you understand that hormones are a major player, you can treat the root cause instead of just masking symptoms. Whether it's bioidentical therapy, lifestyle shifts, or targeted nutrients, women deserve to know that their brains and their hormones are on the same team—and that relief is possible.Study source: Biomedical Reports (2025)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40083602Clip 14: Social Media Changes Teen Brain WiringWe now have MRI data showing that the more often a teen checks social media, the more their brain becomes wired for external validation. In a study from UNC Chapel Hill, researchers found that teens who compulsively checked platforms like Instagram or Snapchat showed measurable changes in the brain's reward centers. These areas lit up more intensely over time, meaning their brains were becoming increasingly sensitive to likes, comments, and digital attention. This isn't just about being distracted. It's about a neurological shift in what they find rewarding—and that shift can impact everything from self-worth to emotional regulation. The researchers even found that this pattern predicts increased anxiety and depression, especially in girls. And it makes sense—when your self-esteem is tied to a number on a screen, even a small drop in engagement feels like social rejection. So what can parents do? First, understand that this isn't just 'teen stuff.' This is brain development. Second, set tech boundaries that prioritize boredom, creativity, and real-life interaction. Even a two-week break can reset the system. Social media isn't going away—but we have to teach kids how to use it without letting it rewire them.Study source: UNC-Chapel Hill (2023)https://www.unc.edu/posts/2023/01/03/study-shows-habitual-checking-of-social-media-may-impact-young-adolescents-brain-developmenClip 16: Screen Time and Toddlers' SleepSleep is how toddlers consolidate memory, regulate mood, and grow both physically and neurologically. But more and more research is showing that screen exposure—even if it's 'educational'—can seriously disrupt toddler sleep. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children ages 2 to 5 who used screens within an hour of bedtime had shorter total sleep and more fragmented rest. Blue light delays melatonin production. Fast-paced content overstimulates the nervous system. And passive consumption before bed blunts their natural wind-down process. We think of it as relaxing—but their brains don't. What's worse is that these disruptions don't just affect nighttime. They carry over into the next day—affecting focus, mood, and even immune function. That's why experts now recommend at least 60 minutes of screen-free time before lights out—especially for young kids. Replace it with a bath, a book, a calm routine. These rituals help their circadian rhythm sync naturally. Sleep isn't just a health pillar—it's a developmental requirement. And screens may be the single biggest obstacle we're overlooking.Study source: JAMA Pediatrics (2024)https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/282519Clip 18: Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals = Global Health RiskA sweeping review by the Endocrine Society in 2024 called endocrine-disrupting chemicals a 'global health threat.' These are substances—often found in plastics, pesticides, cosmetics, and even receipts—that can mimic, block, or interfere with your body's hormones. They've been linked to everything from infertility to obesity to neurological conditions and cancer. And they're everywhere. Prenatal exposure can affect fetal brain development. Chronic exposure is associated with thyroid dysfunction and metabolic syndrome. And it's not about one product—it's about cumulative load. What's scary is how underregulated many of these substances are in the U.S. compared to Europe. But what's hopeful is that you *can* reduce your exposure. Swap plastic for glass. Say no to fragrance. Wash produce well. Choose organic when you can. Each swap reduces total burden. This isn't alarmist. This is modern environmental medicine. And it affects every system in your body.Study source: Endocrine Society Global Consensus Statement (2024)https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/2024/latest-science-shows-endocrine-disrupting-chemicals-in-pose-health-threats-globallyClip 19: Gut-Brain Axis and Mental HealthWe used to think the brain controlled everything. Now we know the gut plays just as big a role—especially in mental health. The gut-brain axis is a communication superhighway that links your microbiome to your nervous system. And studies show that disruptions in gut health are strongly linked to anxiety, depression, and even neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD. Certain gut bacteria help produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA. Others regulate inflammation, which directly impacts mood. A 2025 review of over 50 studies found that targeted probiotics improved symptoms of depression in many patients—sometimes as effectively as medication. What you eat, how you digest, and what lives in your gut may affect your mind more than your therapist knows. That doesn't mean meds aren't useful—but it means we have to zoom out. If your gut is inflamed, your brain is inflamed. And no amount of mindset work can override a body that's chemically out of balance. Heal the gut. Watch what changes.Study source: PubMed Meta-Review on Gut-Brain Axis (2025)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3963000Perimenopause: Recognizing and Addressing Early SymptomsDid you know that up to 90% of women experience symptoms of perimenopause years before menopause actually begins? Despite that, most women are either dismissed by doctors or told they're too young to be entering that phase. Perimenopause can start as early as your mid-30s, and it's not just hot flashes—it's insomnia, anxiety, irritability, brain fog, and cycle irregularities. A study from Stanford's Center for Lifestyle Medicine in 2025 emphasized that when women are supported with hormone therapy earlier—during perimenopause, not just postmenopause—they report significantly better mental clarity, energy, and quality of life. But here's the problem: most conventional providers aren't trained to spot this transition, and women are left thinking it's just stress, parenting, or age catching up with them. When really, it's hormones shifting. Estradiol begins to fluctuate, progesterone declines, and the nervous system takes the hit. Women deserve to know what's happening inside their bodies—and what they can do about it. Simple steps like tracking symptoms, checking hormone levels through saliva or urine testing, and considering targeted bioidentical support can change everything. This isn't about vanity—it's about function, clarity, and reclaiming your life before things spiral. If you've ever thought, 'I just don't feel like myself anymore,' and your labs came back 'normal,' this is your sign to dig deeper. You're not crazy. You're not weak. You're likely perimenopausal. And you deserve care that actually sees you.Study source: Stanford Lifestyle Medicine (2025)https://longevity.stanford.edu/lifestyle/2025/03/06/menopause-hormone-therapy-is-making-a-comeback-is-it-safe-and-right-for-you/Menopause and Muscle Mass: The Critical Role of Resistance TrainingMuscle loss during and after menopause is one of the most overlooked drivers of weight gain, fatigue, and metabolic decline in women. In fact, women can lose up to 10% of their muscle mass in the first five years post-menopause. That's not just a cosmetic issue—it's a health crisis. Loss of muscle means decreased insulin sensitivity, weaker bones, and lower resting metabolic rate. But the good news? It's reversible. A landmark 2025 study from the University of Exeter showed that menopausal women who engaged in just 12 weeks of resistance training experienced a 21% improvement in lower body flexibility and significant increases in strength and mobility. What's even more promising is that these improvements came from just two to three sessions a week using basic strength exercises. Muscle is your metabolic engine. And during menopause, when estrogen drops, protecting that muscle becomes your superpower. This isn't about getting shredded or spending hours at the gym—it's about lifting enough weight to send your body the message that it's still needed. Because when your body doesn't get that message, it starts letting muscle go. This leads to increased fat gain, inflammation, and risk of chronic disease. If you're entering menopause or already postmenopausal and you're not lifting weights, you're missing one of the most effective, protective tools for your long-term health.Study source: University of Exeter (2025)https://news.exeter.ac.uk/faculty-of-health-and-life-sciences/first-of-its-kind-study-shows-resistance-training-can-improve-physical-function-during-menopause/The Importance of Sexual Activity as We AgeHere's something most people don't expect: research shows that sexual satisfaction actually improves with age. A 2025 study published in Social Psychology revealed that older adults reported higher levels of emotional intimacy, comfort, and fulfillment during sex—especially when partnered with someone long-term. It turns out that fewer distractions, better communication, and reduced self-consciousness all contribute to more satisfying experiences in later years. But biology still plays a role. Hormonal shifts—like lower estrogen or testosterone—can affect desire, arousal, and comfort. The good news? These challenges are highly treatable. We now have non-invasive, low-risk treatments like vaginal DHEA, testosterone therapy, or pelvic floor physical therapy that can radically improve function and satisfaction. And here's the key: sexual health isn't just about sex. It's about cardiovascular health, immune health, sleep, and mood. An active sex life improves oxytocin levels, reduces stress, and strengthens the emotional bond between partners. Unfortunately, a lot of providers still don't ask about it. And many people are too embarrassed to bring it up. But this is a health issue—and you deserve support. So if intimacy has changed, bring it into the conversation. Because aging doesn't have to mean disconnect—it can actually mean rediscovery.Study source: PsyPost (2025)https://www.psypost.org/sexual-satisfactions-link-to-marital-happiness-grows-stronger-with-age/Preventing Alzheimer's and Type 2 Diabetes: Blood Sugar and Brain HealthThere's a reason Alzheimer's is now being called 'Type 3 Diabetes.' A 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open found that people with Type 2 Diabetes who kept their A1C in the target range significantly lowered their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In fact, risk was reduced by up to 60%. Why? Because insulin resistance doesn't just affect your pancreas—it affects your brain. High insulin impairs memory centers like the hippocampus, increases inflammation, and accelerates plaque formation. That means your morning bagel and soda aren't just spiking your blood sugar—they may be spiking your dementia risk. The solution isn't extreme dieting. It's metabolic awareness. Simple tools like continuous glucose monitors, strength training, walking after meals, and eliminating ultra-processed carbs can dramatically stabilize blood sugar. Add in sleep and stress management, and you've got a recipe for brain protection. Most people wait until symptoms start. But prevention is where the power is. If you have a family history of Alzheimer's or Type 2 Diabetes, take this seriously. Your future brain is being built right now by the food on your plate.Study source: JAMA Network Open (2024)https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2821878Testosterone and Aging: It's Not Just About Sex DriveMost people hear 'testosterone' and immediately think of sex drive. But this hormone does way more than that. Testosterone plays a critical role in muscle maintenance, bone density, energy, focus, and mood. A 2025 review from the HE Clinics found that testosterone levels in men start declining around age 30—and continue to drop about 1% per year. That might sound gradual, but by your late 40s or 50s, it's enough to cause noticeable issues: brain fog, irritability, fatigue, and loss of motivation. What's even more concerning is that low testosterone has now been linked to a 26% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's. The brain literally needs testosterone to function well. The challenge is, many men go undiagnosed because they don't get tested—or they get told their levels are 'normal for their age.' But 'normal' doesn't mean optimal. And restoring optimal levels, especially with bioidentical therapies under medical supervision, has been shown to improve mood, clarity, libido, and physical performance. This isn't about bodybuilder doses or quick fixes—it's about reversing a gradual decline that's robbing men of their edge. If you or your partner feels like something is off, it's worth investigating. Because aging doesn't have to mean decline. It can mean recalibration.Study source: HE Clinics (2025)https://heclinics.com/testosterone-therapy-in-older-men-recent-findings/Why Functional Medicine Is Gaining Ground Over Conventional CareIf you've ever felt dismissed in a 7-minute doctor's appointment, you're not alone. Traditional primary care is built for volume—not personalization. That's where functional medicine comes in. A 2019 study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients receiving care through a functional medicine model saw a 30% greater improvement in health-related quality of life than those in conventional care. Why? Because functional medicine is built around asking better questions, running more comprehensive labs, and looking for root causes—not just masking symptoms. Instead of saying 'your labs are normal,' we ask, 'are you thriving?' We look at hormones, nutrition, sleep, gut health, toxin exposure, and genetics as pieces of a bigger picture. This approach is proactive—not reactive. It focuses on reversing disease, not just managing it. More and more people are turning to this kind of care because they're tired of feeling unseen. If you've been told everything is fine but you still feel off, functional medicine might be the approach you need. You deserve care that listens longer, digs deeper, and treats the whole you.Study source: JAMA Network Open (2019)https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2753520A word from my sponsors:Quince - Get cozy in Quince's high-quality wardrobe essentials. Go to Quince.com/honest for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. LMNT - Get your free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/HONEST. Ritual - Support a balanced gut microbiome with Ritual's Synbiotic+. Get 25% off your first month at Ritual.com/BEHONEST. Happy Squatting. 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