Podcasts about ob gyns

In this episode of Trending with Timmerie, Timmerie speaks with Dr. Susan Caldwell, a Catholic OB-GYN who specializes in NaPro Technology – a groundbreaking approach to women’s health that finds and treats the root causes of infertility instead of masking symptoms. Dr. Caldwell shares the story of a woman told she could “never have children without IVF.” After beginning NaPro charting with the Creighton Model System, doctors discovered endometriosis that traditional fertility clinics had overlooked. Through specialized NaPro surgery and hormonal support, that same woman welcomed a healthy baby girl – no IVF required. Dr. Caldwell explains how NaPro-trained surgeons differ from typical OB-GYNs: they don’t just burn away lesions; they remove the full disease, often working with urologists or bowel specialists to restore the body’s natural design. She and Timmerie stress that many women are misdiagnosed or given birth control instead of real answers – and that NaPro offers hope, healing, and authentic care that honors a woman’s fertility rather than shutting it down. For women struggling with infertility, painful cycles, or endometriosis, this conversation offers a faith-based, medically sound alternative that respects both life and health.

In this episode, Therese Markow and Irin Carmon discuss Irin's new book, “Unbearable: Five Women and the Perils of Pregnancy in America.” 80% of maternal deaths in the United States are due to completely preventable reasons. She highlights the three pillars of reproductive justice: the right not to have a child, the right to have a child, and the right to parent in a safe community. She shares her personal experiences and those of five women to illustrate systemic inequalities in maternal care. Irin emphasizes the need for respectful, autonomous care and the impact of systemic racism and misogyny on maternal health outcomes.    Key Takeaways: Abortion care affects all levels of pregnancy care. In many states, such as Alabama, many former abortion clinics want to turn into birth centers, but are prevented by the government and state medical associations. 80% of maternal deaths in the United States are due to completely preventable reasons. In the US, we have a system where OBGYNs are classified as primary care providers and are the most common way people give birth, which is not right for everyone.  False binaries (C-Section vs vaginal birth, epidural or not, etc.) are a way to pit women against each other for their own biological story that is often outside of their control.    "There's something profoundly wrong with a system that doesn't recognize your full humanity at a point where you need it the most. Because these are life and death experiences, even in the best of circumstances and regardless of the course of your pregnancy and your choices around it, they concern our deepest held values and our ideas about our destiny." —  Irin Carmon   Episode References:  Pregnancy Justice: https://www.pregnancyjusticeus.org/    Connect with Irin Carmon: Professional Bio: https://www.irincarmon.com/about  Website: https://www.irincarmon.com/  Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Unbearable/Irin-Carmon/9781668032602    Connect with Therese: Website: www.criticallyspeaking.net Threads: @critically_speaking Email: theresemarkow@criticallyspeaking.net   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.  

In this episode, Nichole sits down with Dr. Robert Yu, a holistic-minded periodontist based in St. Petersburg, Florida, to explore how pregnancy, postpartum, and the seasons of motherhood can impact your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.Dr. Yu was the surgeon behind Nichole's year-long dental healing journey — removing old root canals, clearing infections, rebuilding bone with grafts and a sinus lift, and placing a ceramic dental implant. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked connection between motherhood, hormones, nutrient depletion, bone health, and gum disease — and what every woman should know about supporting her mouth and body through each stage of life.This conversation bridges holistic dentistry and conventional periodontal care, offering education, empowerment, and real-life insight for women who want to approach dental health from a whole-body perspective.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow pregnancy and postpartum nutrient depletion affect bone and gum healthThe link between periodontal disease and pregnancy outcomes like preterm or low-birth-weight babiesWhy many OB-GYNs and midwives don't emphasize gum exams — and why they shouldThe difference between traditional titanium implants and metal-free ceramic (zirconia) implantsThe mouth–body connection: how oral bacteria can influence heart health, inflammation, and systemic diseaseDr. Yu's preferred vitamin and mineral support for jawbone healing (vitamin D, calcium, potassium, and Metagenics Bone BuilderWhy informed consent matters in dentistry — and how to advocate for yourself as a patientThe truth about bone graft materials (human, animal, and synthetic) and how to make an informed choiceDr. Yu's thoughts on light therapy, microcirculation, and energy-based healing for post-surgical recoveryThe power of collaboration between dentists, functional medicine doctors, and holistic providersPregnancy and breastfeeding can deplete minerals and weaken bone structure, including the jawbone.Healthy gums support a healthy pregnancy — untreated gum disease has been linked to preterm birth.A gum exam (periodontal exam) is just as important as a dental cleaning for expecting or new moms.Bone and gum health are influenced by vitamin D, calcium, and hormonal shifts.Holistic dentistry bridges prevention and science, empowering women to make choices that align with both intuition and evidence.

The family of a man convicted of a murder he didn't commit was shocked when ICE detained him again -- before he was even allowed to leave the prison where he'd been held for decades. Doctors Without Borders announces it is closing its emergency center in Port-au-Prince -- and the head of MSF's mission there tells us it means Haitians are losing one of their last lifelines. The mayor of a Louisiana town at the heart of a U-S Supreme Court battle says people who want to redraw the current electoral maps should check their moral compass. Obstetrics may soon be on hold at a Kamloops hospital where all seven OBGYNs announced their resignations -- citing inadequate support for women's healthcare. A friend and protegee of the late Drew Struzan tells us just what it was about his iconic movie posters that were so unique and inspired such pure excitement.A story that will take your broth away: the disquieting tale of a cat that contributed a dead mouse -- tail and all -- to its foster family's pot of soup. As It Happens, the Thursday Edition. Radio that's always stirring up trouble.

The Shenandoah Valley is witnessing a transformative moment in women's healthcare. Dr. Trimble Spitzer, a board-certified OB-GYN and reproductive endocrinology infertility specialist, has opened a new fertility practice with Valley Health, addressing a long-standing gap in local reproductive services. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Dr. Spitzer to discuss her journey, the challenges women face with infertility, and the hope her practice brings to the region. Meet Dr. Trimble Spitzer: From Military Service to Medical Pioneer Dr. Spitzer's path to reproductive medicine is as unique as it is inspiring. With a background in physics and over 20 years of service in the Air Force, she brings a blend of scientific rigor and compassionate care to her new role. “Medicine was a calling,” she shares, describing her early realization that she wanted to work closely with women and solve complex medical puzzles. Her move to the Shenandoah Valley was motivated by both personal ties and a professional commitment to serve an area she identified as a “fertility desert.” Understanding Infertility: Breaking the Silence Infertility and pregnancy loss have long been shrouded in silence and stigma. Dr. Spitzer notes that while women today are more open about their struggles, many still feel isolated. “Education is key,” she emphasizes, urging women to seek evidence-based information and support. The conversation highlights how societal shifts and delayed family planning have contributed to rising infertility rates, but also how open dialogue can empower women to find solutions. Comprehensive Care: Services for Every Stage Dr. Spitzer's practice offers a wide range of services, from helping women struggling to conceive for the first time to supporting those facing recurrent pregnancy loss or managing conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. She explains that while advanced treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) are available through partnerships, most patients benefit from less invasive options provided locally. The practice also introduces innovative solutions, such as local access to semen analysis for male partners, reducing the need for long-distance travel. Closing the Gap: Accessible, Patient-Centered Support The new Valley Health Fertility practice stands out for its accessibility and patient-centered approach. Dr. Spitzer welcomes both referrals and self-referrals, ensuring that women can easily access care. She collaborates closely with other OB-GYNs, providing specialized support while patients continue to receive routine care from their primary providers. Office hours are designed for convenience, and the practice is committed to making every patient feel heard and supported. A Hopeful Future for the Valley As the conversation draws to a close, Dr. Spitzer expresses her excitement about serving the Shenandoah Valley and helping women achieve their dreams of building families. Her arrival marks a significant step forward for local healthcare, offering hope, expertise, and a compassionate ear to those navigating the challenges of infertility. With Valley Health Fertility, the region's women now have a powerful new ally on their journey to parenthood.

See all the Healthcasts at https://www.biobalancehealth.com/healthcast-blog This Blog post is for mature women to read.  If you feel embarrassed by sex or offended that I am addressing these genuine female concerns, please skip this Blog. Among the many questions I have received, I am sharing a few with you in case you also have these questions but are hesitant to ask when you visit your gynecologist's office. At BioBalance Health, our doctors conduct consultations with new patients and follow-up visits that last an hour. During these consultations, patients are free to ask questions about their health including sexual questions.   The atmosphere in our office is open to all questions, and the doctors offer hour-long visits, fostering a supportive environment for discussing embarrassing sexual situations, asking awkward questions, and addressing concerns about sexuality and aging. I am going to offer some of the questions I have been asked and the answers that I give to my patients who ask. Question 1:” Am I normal to think about sex and fantasize about having sex all the time now that I have testosterone pellets?” Yes, that is normal and healthy to think about sex…humans are sexual beings and thinking about or planning to have sex with your partner is normal.  After Testosterone pellets are inserted for the first time, they have magnified sexuality for a few weeks.  After that the sex drive of a patient goes back to what was normal for them when they were at their prime. Testosterone is necessary for a person, women and men to have a sexual drive. Those women and men who have had a healthy sex life before their testosterone was lost can still have sex, on their usual schedule, but what we think of sex DRIVE, won't be there without T….just the habit of having sex will make them continue to have an active sex life.  Question 2: “Before pellets I didn't have any discharge in my underwear, and I thought that was a benefit of menopause but now I experience wetness/slight white discharge Am I OK?” When women are mature and have fertility, (women between 12 years old and menopause) have some discharge clear or white in their underwear.  It is from the vagina, and it is a way of the vagina cleansing itself. Without the hormones estradiol and testosterone, as in menopause and when a woman takes low dose birth control pills, the vagina dries up and doesn't “cleanse itself”. Vaginal lubrication stops, so does vaginal discharge, and painful intercourse is a real problem for women after they are not producing estradiol or replacing it with HRT. Experiencing normal vaginal discharge is a small price to pay to comfortable sex and a good sex drive. If the discharge changes, please watch or read my last Healthcast #685 or blog #685 to determine if you need to see a Gynecologist. Question 3: A question women ask me before they experience replacement of testosterone and estradiol. “Do I have Alzheimer's disease?  I'm only 50 and I can't remember things. I lose words and I am always late because I can't remember appointments.” One of the most important benefits of taking testosterone by pellet insertion is that my patients usually get their brain back!  It is rare that anyone who is having trouble with their memory before age 55 is really starting to have an early onset dementia. By taking Estradiol and Testosterone pellets my patients regain their normal brain function in the first 8-12 months.  Those women who are still struggling with memory after taking Estradiol and Testosterone Pellets should be evaluated by a psychiatrist or neurologist to test them to see if they are having the beginnings of a type of dementia. The sooner a person takes TE hormone pellet replacement, the longer they will have a clear and functional mind.  If a woman takes T and or E2 pellets, they can delay the genetic onset of dementia by 10 years. That means if genetically you were wired to lose your ability to think at age 70, then you should get a ten-year delay in the onset of your dementia. E + T pellets are the only treatment I know can preserve your ability to think 10 years longer than if you didn't take them within 10 years of losing your Estrogen and Testosterone (around age 45).  Question 4: “Now that I have pellets, I have great orgasms but I produce a lot of fluid when I come.  Is that normal?” Yes. Estrogen increases vaginal wetness, and lubrication for sex. Testosterone stimulates the sensitivity of the area around and inside the vagina. Testosterone pellets are the only form I have heard of that can cause vaginal ejaculation, or forceful production of fluid from the vagina.  Not everyone experiences this phenomenon, and some women love it as do their partners, and other women dislike it because it makes sex messier than usual. It is a testosterone dose dependent action, and lowering the T dose in pellets can decrease the response to sexual stimulation. Question 5: “My husband can't keep up with my sex drive.  I have the same drive as I had when I was younger, but he is not able to keep up with my libido.  What can I do?” My response has several options because every sexual partnership is different. You can use vibrators or sex toys to stimulate yourself. He can use the same toys to engage in sexual activity with you. You can lower your dose of T pellets to decrease your sex drive. You can invite your husband to visit us or another Pellet practice to have his level of T and Free T checked and replaced if it is low and he is a good candidate. Question 6: “My husband likes me to give him oral sex. I like it, but what do I do with the semen he produces? The eternal problem:  to swallow ejaculate or not.  You can only decide this for yourself and if you are uncomfortable with this, then have a washcloth or Kleenex handy to handle the fluid. Question 7:” I have had pellets for a year now, and I have never been so happy, and I feel young again, but my gynecologist examined me and said I had an enlarged clitoris, and she told me to stop pellets because of that!  I don't get it!  It doesn't bother me; why is she so upset? What should I do?” Your GYN is clearly not educated in hormone therapy using T pellets. She also seems to be uncomfortable with her own sexuality if she cannot see the benefit of having a clitoris that is slightly larger than normal, so it is easy for a partner to access.  She may be recalling something from residency, that we were taught: “An enlarged clitoris is a sign of an ovarian tumor, and these tumors secrete high levels of testosterone-like hormone. This is not the same as a slight enlargement of the clitoris that is normal with T replacement. She has not considered that you are receiving Testosterone to replace what you are no longer producing. When we no longer make testosterone at fertile levels, our clitoris shrinks so small that it can hardly be found. Testosterone reverses that change reviving the size and function of the clitoris. Honestly, the change is minimal, and the size of the clitoris varies based on a woman's genetics and testosterone levels before the age of 40.  The natural shrinkage of the clitoris after menopause corresponds with low levels of testosterone, along with the loss of clitoral sensitivity, which can lead to a decrease in orgasms!  We are sexual beings, and testosterone is essential for sexual function. The ignorance of your gynecologist is both sad and common.  In the last 20 years, there has been no training for OBGYNs in sexuality or hormone replacement during menopause.  There is complete ignorance regarding treating women with testosterone. As in the general population that has a subset of people who are sexually inhibited, the group of board certified gyns carry their own attitude into the treatment room. Clitoral orgasms are the most common type of orgasm in women. After menopause, they can disappear without testosterone stimulation.  That will stop sexual pleasure completely. Most of my patients don't complain about having a visible clitoris, and they say “I can see my clitoris again and my husband can find it now! It makes sex great again.” Question 8: “My internist asked me why I wanted to have sex now that I am old!  I'm 45! I am changing doctors, but what was she thinking?  Again, the training of normal sexuality in residency programs is minimal.  She might also be sexually unaware or inhibited, as she revealed when she told you that it is not normal to have sex as we age (over 40); clearly, she does not view it as an important part of her life, so it shouldn't be an important part of yours! Question 9: “Now that I am having sex again, I am shooting fluid out when I climax!  What is that and where does it come from?  By the way, my husband loves it!” This phenomenon is called “female ejaculation,” and it is a normal, yet uncommon, part of great orgasms.  Women can produce fluid through transudation via the vaginal wall (which is incorrectly dubbed “vaginal sweating”).  There are no sweat glands in the vagina; the fluid comes from the abdomen and is known as peritoneal fluid.  When a woman orgasms, her vagina contracts, and this fluid squirts out of the vagina with force. The second source of fluid is the Skene's glands, which are small glands located on either side of the urethra (the opening that leads to the bladder). They don't produce a large amount in most women, but it is possible for them to “squirt” fluid with force. Most men find this gratifying, as an unspoken sign that they did a great job.  Women may find it upsetting and ask me to decrease their testosterone levels to lessen the likelihood of “making a mess” when she has sex; however, this also decreases the orgasmic experience. I will keep collecting questions that my patients ask me in my office to offer a continued version of “Embarrassing Questions” in future blogs. I hope this helped you answer some of your unanswered questions!

See all the Healthcasts at https://www.biobalancehealth.com/healthcast-blog If you are female who is menopausal and you have experienced your OBGYN or internist drawing your blood to check your hormone levels, (Estradiol, and LH and FSH) to see if you are menopausal or to see what your estradiol level is while on HRT, you may have heard your doctor tell you that your estradiol level is too high. That is what I would like to talk about today….. This often occurs when my patients take the blood work I order to another doctor who doesn't know anything about estrogen and just looks at the reference range on the lab sheet. Most of you have heard me talk about the fact that lab reports must be interpreted by the treating physician, because what is written on the lab sheet isn't tailored to your situation. The lab reference ranges for menopausal women are based on women who don't take any hormones, very low estradiol and high LH and FSH, which is not healthy and is the level that causes women overwhelming hot flashes and painful periods. Estradiol blood tests have a list of numbers that don't reflect the healthy estradiol level, but a level that makes women miserable. After I replace a woman's estradiol, their tests show blood levels of a young healthy woman who is pre-menopausal, and that brings them back to feeling like themselves. “I have my life back!  Estradiol and Testosterone Pellets have cured all my symptoms (low libido, hot flashes, poor interrupted sleep, bladder spasms, depression, and I feel like myself again!” No other hormone replacement brings estradiol blood levels to (60-250ng/ml), patches, creams and gels just stop one symptom, hot flashes.  There is a reason that your doctor doesn't know about hormones. The education that OBGYNs get in residency effects what they recommend to their patients for life, and they have very little training about hormones which means that no one is taking care of the hormones for women, and bioidentical estradiol is never discussed because it is not approved by the FDA which is why I DO!  I have made it my business to know everything about women's hormones and have prescribed them to women for over 45 years.  Therefore, when I am told that the primary care or internal medicine doctor told one of my patients that their estradiol and estrone are “too high”, I am dismayed.    Women must think about the fact that when they feel normal after menopause treatment, then that is the best treatment for them.  My patients become better, healthier, and their relationships are more fulfilling with Estradiol replacement, and I know the range the Estradiol should be within (60-250), the same as when we were fertile and young. Estradiol taken non-orally (patch, cream or pellet) is safe and does not cause breast cancer or liver cancer or cause blood clots. What Should I Tell My Doctor about my estrogen replacement? Therefore, If your doctor tells you to stop estradiol, you can tell him that estradiol replacement decreases all causes of death in Menopausal women, it decreases heart disease, bladder disease, bladder infections, osteoporosis, and dementia/Alazheimer's Disease! Tell him or her that, they can stop worrying about your Estrogen because you are being prescribed it by a doctor who knows how to manage hormones. Breast Cancer Patients There is another type of patient who I often see in my office. Breast Cancer patients with estradiol receptors are taken off their estrogen, and they are given an estrogen blocker like Tamoxifen® (oral) or Anastrazole (Arimidex®) to get rid of the estrogen in their body which is to “starve” breast cancer cell that may have seeded other tissues in the body. These patients are miserable. I treat them with Testosterone pellets only and monitor their Estrogens. That works until their doctor sees an Estradiol level that is in the premenopausal range in a patient who hasn't had an estradiol pellet in a year.  E2 pellets are tiny and friable, and they can't last longer than 6 months. What happens when the oncologist freaks them out saying it is the Estradiol pellet causing the E2, E1 levels. They are upset but this is estradiol from other sources (not the ovaries). Here are the facts: Estradiol pellets are 2-3 mm in size. They dissolve by blood flowing around the pellet located in the fat. Estradiol pellets dissolve completely over 3-4 months in most women. We cannot see them by ultrasound at 4 months. Therefore, a year later a woman who has estradiol over 60 The oncologist is not a hormone specialist and doesn't know the other sources of estradiol and estrone in the body. a prescribed amount of Estradiol (E2) is given every 4 months. The medium dose of E2 is 25mg and it lasts 120 – 180 days The size of an estradiol pellet = 2×2 mm Causes Of Continuing High Estrogen In a Woman Long After She Stops E2 Pellets: Tamoxifen given for Breast Cancer is an Estrogen and also an Estrogen Receptor modulator, but is really an Estrogen, which turns off the receiving end for E2 (the cellular receptors) so the breast cancer cannot be stimulated by circulating estrogens, but the rest of the body is. When on Tamoxifen it is not the pellets that are raising the blood level of E2, E1, it is the Medication. When someone is on Tomoxifen all their other organs are stimulated by estrogens from Tamoxifen, but the Breasts are not. That means that the estrogen in the blood is from the medication Tamoxifen and not the previous pellets. Obesity increases body fat and E2 is made in the fat and the less fat the lower the Estrone and estradiol. Other Medications and supplements can increase the E2 and E1 in the circulation but rarely help with menopausal symptoms. Your doctor should know what medications you can't take if you are trying to get rid of estradiol and estrone usually prior to Breast Cancer therapy. Drinking alcohol can prevent the liver from processing the estrogen that is meant to be removed normally so it builds up in the circulation. Liver disease causes an increase in E1 as well. Some medications increase estrogens in the body, but do not relieve symptoms of menopause, so have you doctor review your other medications you take. High intake of soy, edamame, soy nuts, soy in nut milk, Tofu, and other vegan (fake meat) is made of soy and soy is a phytoestrogen which can cause uterine bleeding but doesn't help the symptoms of menopause. Soy is in everything so read the labels. Genetic Diseases can cause high estrogen in menopausal women who are not taking estradiol for their symptoms.   Some women have an aromatase defect, which is genetic and can't be cured but can be treated with anastrazole or Arimidex, the same medication. This means that they convert Testosterone into estradiol and estrone. Even before menopause women have very low testosterone, so this is not obvious when they come to my office. The test for the gene defect is very expensive and this is not a common occurrence.  We diagnose this when a woman's estrogen is too high for the dose she is taking, AND her testosterone ran out too fast! We treat that condition with a testosterone + anastrazole pellet in the normal dose of T, and it corrects the conversion of T into E2, E1. Oral anastrazole also called Arimidex blocks that conversion too and is tolerated better by men but women get arthritis symptoms. DIM can treat this genetic conversion by blocking the enzyme at a different place than Arimidex. Fat Loss through dieting releases the estradiol stored in the body fat   Obesity and weight loss can cause estradiol and estrone to be high in the blood. Estrogen is made and stored in fat tissue.  The more you have, the more E1 and E2 you have in your fat.  Obesity can store the hormone and slowly release it which fools us and makes us think we are seeing pellet E2 nd E1. The more fat you have the more estrogens you make! When people lose fat under the supervision of a doctor, they usually have somewhat rapid weight loss.  This floods the blood with both estradiol, estrone, and triglycerides.  It takes longer to clear the estrogens because the liver is also processing fat. PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Does reducing body fat reduce estrogen? Making some lifestyle changes may help lower your estrogen levels. Your provider may recommend that you: Decrease your percentage of body fat. Decreasing your body fat can reduce the amount of estrogen that your fat cells secrete. Feb 9, 2022 Above is what your doctor should think about when diagnosing you for high estradiol long after a pellet is gone.  There are some ovarian and adrenal specific problems that are also possible to be the reason E2, E1 are increased. I hope this gives you ammunition to discuss with the doctors who don't know anything about hormones, estradiol and menopausal women.  Tell them what you know to be true and stop blaming a 2mmx2mm pellet that can't physically last more than 120 day.

Lexi shares how she advocated for wholistic and effective PCOS care after receiving the "same ole" story from too many OBGYNs as it relates to her condition. She was ready to conceive and eager to uncover the best way to support her body and care for her PCOS -- not just get past it. In this episode, she shares about her own experience with PCOS, what she was told by her OBGYN initially, what signaled that it was time to find a new one, what resources she used, where she found help, and advice she'd offer to other women who want the same thing. NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences.GUEST BIO: Lexi is the wife to her husband, Brandon, whom she's been married to for about 10 years. And she's the mother of two children, ages three and three months.OTHER HELPFUL RESOURCES:Ep. 178: Dealing with PCOS as a single woman, with JenEp. 152: Do PCOS cycles work with fertility awareness methods?Ep. 128: Healing irregular cycles and reversing PCOS -- Emily's storyEp. 20: Nutrition for PCOS with Tracy Mann, RDEp. 19: PCOS 101Infertility 101 Resource Guide (Scroll down to find this resource)Advocating in the Dr.'s Office: Tips for Asking Good Questions (Scroll down to find this resource)Send us a textSupport the showOther great ways to connect with Woven Natural Fertility Care: Learn the Creighton Model System with us! Register here! Get our monthly newsletter: Get the updates! Chat about issues of fertility + faith: Substack Follow us on Instagram: @wovenfertility Watch our episodes on YouTube: @wovenfertility Love the content? The biggest gift you could give is to click a 5 star review and write why it was so meaningful! This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any represe...

Send us a textShe's the host of the Speaking of Labia podcast, a practicing OB/GYN, business owner, and mom of two. And this past summer, Dr. Lauren Puretz was the top American finisher at UTMB 100.In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, Lauren shares what it takes to juggle medicine, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and elite ultrarunning. From her start in high school track, to stepping back during med school and residency, to rediscovering running after kids—Lauren's story is one of resilience, grit, and grace.We dive into:Running ultras while raising kidsWearing multiple hats—mom, doctor, athlete, business ownerNavigating mom guilt and giving yourself graceFrom med school to launching her own women's health practiceWhy collaboration between OB/GYNs & pelvic health PTs matters for women at every stage

Dr. Jessica Vernon is a board-certified OBGYN who has cared for thousands of people throughout their reproductive journeys over the past 15 years. She is an Associate Medical Director and Director of Mental Health at Oula, a women's health startup in New York City offering comprehensive maternity care, from expert midwives to board-certified OBGYNs. It was Dr. Vernon's personal experience that first inspired her to start Oula, and our conversation begins with unpacking the circumstances that followed the birth of her daughter. Next, we unpack the perinatal mental health work that inspired Dr. Vernon's first book, Then Comes Baby, and the experiences as client and consultant that informed its content. Dr. Vernon shares some fundamentals of her approach to care, all centered around finding grace for yourself and your body after giving birth. Join us today to hear from a truly informed and compassionate guest!  

In this episode we welcome our new Director of Pelvic Health Rehab at Penrose PT Dr. Anesse Kuehl, DPT. She has worked with OB/GYNs, colorectal surgeons, urogynecologists and brings a great breadth of knowledge to the team. On this podcast we discuss some myths around pelvic health and talk about how physical therapy can help with incontinence, post partum care, post abdominal or pelvic surgery and much more! You don't need to suffer if you have pelvic pain or incontinence - even if it's been years. We are here to help. And those who are about to have a baby there are things you can do to prepare for a great delivery experience. www.penrosept.com. 360-456-1444

Episode 72 of She Said It First is proof that even when the universe (and a fleet of airplanes) tries to sabotage them, Jerrilyn Lake (aka Indeskribeabull) and Lynee’ Monae will still deliver the laughs. In What Irritated Me the Most This Week, the ladies start by venting about nonstop turbulence—literal and metaphorical. From loud planes drowning out their recording to people who just won’t stop blocking your blessings, the segment is basically therapy with punchlines. As Jerrilyn says, sometimes life really is just one long flight with no peanuts. In Girl, What Happened, the conversation turns serious when they unpack a viral TikTok comparing doctors’ treatment of Black women to police treatment of Black men. The hosts share their own frustrating (and at times scary) medical experiences, dragging the racism baked into healthcare while clowning male OBGYNs who thought “fascinated with coochie” was a career goal. Between the jokes, they get real about how society confuses Black women’s strength with being pain-proof, and why more Black doctors—and more listening—are desperately needed. The ladies go in on Judge Lynn Toler’s revelation that she married a man with four kids and no money. Jerrilyn and Lynee’ respectfully disagree (read: roast it into the ground), pointing out that “companionship” doesn’t pay rent and love alone won’t keep the lights on. Finally, Girl Talk takes us from the waiting room to the dating pool, with hilarious first-date horror stories, from a man battling chopsticks like it was Mortal Kombat to another comparing salmon to… well, let’s just say it wasn’t flattering. They round things out By the end, between the planes, the shade, and the jokes, this episode proves that no amount of background noise can drown out the chemistry of these two. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@u1pn Follow: @urban1podcast @indeskribeabull @lynee_monae Executive Producer: Jahi Whitehead/ @Jahi_TRG Video/Social Media Producer: Walter Gainer II See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get the full show notes on Dr. Aimee's website. I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of The Egg Whisperer Show where I had the honor of chatting with Dr. Justin Thompson, one of the most inspiring and dedicated OB-GYNs I know!  Justin joins me to share his incredible journey through the medical field: early on, he made an unexpected shift from oncology to obstetrics, inspired by personal experiences. He's crafted an innovative practice focused on personalized patient care, and we share similar views on the importance of building close-knit relationships with patients.  Our conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of starting his own practice, the importance of selecting the right obstetrician, and his hopes for the future of obstetrics. Dr. Thompson's passion for his work and his dedication to his patients underscore every topic, making this episode a must-listen for those starting or already on their pregnancy journey. Join us as we explore the profound impact of compassionate and personalized medical care in obstetrics. Here is what we are talking about in this brand new episode: Dr. Thompson shares his inspirational journey from medical school to becoming a beloved OB-GYN. We talk about the importance of building a relationship with your obstetrician before pregnancy. Dr. Thompson discusses the unique needs and care considerations for IVF patients. Insightful advice for couples and individuals starting their pregnancy journey. Our discussion on the future of obstetrics and how personalized care can make all the difference. I hope you'll tune in and hear our thoughts about patient care. You can find the link in my profile. Resources: Dr. Justin Thompson's website: Dedicated Pregnancy Care Dr. Justin Thompson on Instagram Join Dr. Aimee's IVF Class by clicking here Get Dr. Aimee's Fertility Essentials and Supplement List Do you have questions about IVF?Click here to join Dr. Aimee for The IVF Class. The next live class call is on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 4pm PST, where Dr. Aimee will explain IVF and there will be time to ask her your questions live on Zoom.   Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh is one of America's most well known fertility doctors. Her success rate at baby-making is what gives future parents hope when all hope is lost. She pioneered the TUSHY Method and BALLS Method to decrease your time to pregnancy. Learn more about the TUSHY Method and find a wealth of fertility resources at www.draimee.org. Other ways to connect with Dr. Aimee and The Egg Whisperer Show: Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more fertility tips!Subscribe to the newsletter to get updates

What if your pregnancy care was centered on your values, offering personalized support every step of the way? In this episode of Fertility Forward, licensed midwife Casey Selzer shares her two decades of experience advocating for holistic, patient-focused maternity care and demystifies the role of midwives in today's healthcare landscape. We explore how midwifery offers a holistic approach to pregnancy and birth that complements nursing and doula care. Casey explains different care models and encourages early reflection on birth values to help patients choose the best provider and setting. You'll also learn how innovative practices like Oula Health (where Casey is Senior Director of Patient Programs) integrate midwives, OBGYNs, doulas, and specialists in a team-based model that prioritizes education and continuity of care, ultimately transforming maternity care to be more accessible, supportive, and aligned with patient needs. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating pregnancy care options, dispelling misconceptions, and advocating for your unique journey toward parenthood! 

Shea and Stacy continue MEGUST with 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU [1999] Show some love for Ebert: https://shorturl.at/vBFU5 Check out our website: https://www.blockbusterwivespodcast.com/home Subscribe to our Patreon for our first ever Side Quest; Laguna Beach! https://www.patreon.com/blockbusterwives Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blockbuster-wives/support

About two-thousand nurses are trying to unionize in Des Moines. Iowa has opted to implement federal Medicaid work requirements early in 2026. And what's behind Iowa's shortage of OB/GYNs?

From recent court cases, to LGBTQI+ health and rights, to sexual and reproductive health, rights and justice, we have the perfect news source for you. Garnet Henderson and Susan Rinkunas, journalists and co-founders of Autonomy News, a worker-owned reproductive rights and justice publication, sit down to talk with us about their new publication platform and how it can not only teach, but empower.  Recent reporting on Autonomy News includes a case in Texas involving the first federal lawsuit against Aid Access—a large provider of abortion pills in the United States. Other reporting also includes a threatened lawsuit from the Arkansas Attorney General who has sent cease and desist letters to Plan C and Mayday Health, which also provide medication abortion. Additional articles include those examining a circulated, biased survey sent to OBGYNs and the rising number of Planned Parenthood clinic closures.For more information, check out Well...Adjusting: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well-adjusting/id1649386566Support the showFollow Us on Social: Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfbFacebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Buy rePROs Merch: Bonfire store Email us: jennie@reprosfightback.comRate and Review on Apple PodcastThanks for listening & keep fighting back!

A new study confirms that 35% of Idaho's OB-GYNs have walked away since the Dobbs decision and our abortion ban laws went into effect. Host Lindsay Van Allen is talking with lead researcher Dr. Ed McEachern and family practice physician Dr. Deb Roman about the long-term impacts and whether this data could sway lawmakers or voters at the ballot box. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey — it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Boise swag. Learn more about the sponsor of this August 19th episode:  Visit Walla Walla Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm.

Mayoral hopeful Andrew Cuomo is proposing free subway and bus service for low-income New Yorkers. Meanwhile, a 100-year-old historic home near Staten Island's New Dorp station is on the market for only the second time in its history. A new report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli warns of severe doctor shortages in rural New York counties, with some lacking pediatricians, OBGYNs, and mental health providers. Finally, in this week's transit segment: plans for a new 34th Street busway, Cuomo's free transit pitch, and safety upgrades to Canal Street following a deadly crash.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Georgie Kovacs, founder of Fempower Health, unpacks the recent FDA hearing on SSRI use during pregnancy—an emotionally charged and complex conversation that brought together OB-GYNs, psychiatrists, pharmacologists, and advocates.Drawing on over 25 years in healthcare consulting and six years interviewing global women's health leaders, Georgie offers a balanced, deeply informed analysis of the real conversation that took place—beyond the headlines and controversy.This wasn't just a debate about antidepressants in pregnancy. It was a wider reckoning with how we define mental health, how we treat it, and the pressures facing clinicians and patients in a fragmented system. From risk-benefit tradeoffs and informed consent to how “depression” is diagnosed and operationalized, this episode explores what was said, what was missing, and what we need next.Whether you're a woman seeking clarity or a clinician striving to provide the best care, this episode breaks it all down.Discussion Points What actually happened at the FDA panel on SSRIs and pregnancy?Are SSRIs overprescribed—or unfairly stigmatized—during pregnancy?Is "depression" too broad of a diagnosis?How do mental health diagnoses affect treatment decisions for pregnant women?Why is informed consent inconsistent in SSRI prescribing?What are the long-term risks of untreated maternal depression?Are OB-GYNs expected to manage too much—including mental health?How does limited access to psychiatrists shape treatment options?What does better mental healthcare look like during pregnancy?Should we rethink how we integrate psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle care?Expert Backgrounds MentionedOB-GYNs treating pregnant patients on SSRIsPsychiatrists both prescribing and deprescribing antidepressantsAcademic researchers investigating serotonin's effects on fetal developmentAdvocacy leaders spotlighting systemic barriers to mental health careResourcesFDA Hearing: https://www.fda.gov/patients/fda-expert-panels/fda-expert-panel-selective-serotonin-reuptake-inhibitors-ssris-and-pregnancy-07212025ACOG Response to FDA Hearing: https://www.acog.org/news/news-releases/2025/07/statement-on-benefit-of-access-to-ssris-during-pregnancySociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) Statement https://www.smfm.org/news/smfm-statement-on-ssris-and-pregnancyRegulatory Focus Responds: https://www.raps.org/news-and-articles/news-articles/2025/7/fda-panel-debates-label-change-on-ssri-use-duringSTAT News Responds: https://www.statnews.com/2025/07/25/ssri-drugs-fda-review-panel-antidepressants-pregnancy/National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry (NCRP) Responds: https://ncrptraining.org/press-release-ncrp-responds-to-fda-panel-on-ssri-use-in-pregnancy/

In this urgent episode of The Dr. Terri Show, Dr. Terri DeNeui exposes the dangerous rise of unqualified practitioners in plastic surgery with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lindsay Tavakolian, a rare voice of integrity in an industry increasingly driven by profit over patient safety. You'll discover:-The shocking truth about "imposter surgeons" (including OBGYNs and ER doctors performing complex procedures without proper training)-How to verify credentials, and why "board-certified" alone isn't enough-The 3 questions to ask before ANY procedure (hint: "Where did you train?" is #1)-Why female surgeons often deliver better outcomes for women's procedures-Hormones' critical role in surgical success (and how imbalance sabotages healing)-The tallow cream trend debunked, plus science-backed skincare that actually works Dr. Tavakolian also reveals:-Why breast cancer survivors CAN safely use hormone therapy (despite outdated warnings)-How to spot body dysmorphia before it leads to unnecessary surgeries-The Spanx analogy that explains aging skin (and how to "tighten" it naturally) The Dr. Terri Show is presented by EVEXIAS Health Solutions.For more, visit: evexias.com Connect with Dr. Terri:

In this follow-up episode, AiArthritis Health Education Manager Leila reflects on her personal pregnancy journey with lupus and Sjögren's, while sharing key fertility and pregnancy insights from EULAR 2024. She highlights emerging research and clinical recommendations on preconception planning, navigating medication decisions, and coordinating care between rheumatologists and high-risk OB-GYNs. Leila also offers practical tips based on her own experience from managing disease activity during pregnancy to advocating for your needs throughout the journey. Join us on this episode if you're actively planning for a family or simply want to understand how AiArthritis diseases can impact fertility and pregnancy.    Donate to Support the Show: www.aiarthritis.org/donate   Episode Highlights: Hear EULAR 2024 updates on fertility and pregnancy Learn what current guidelines say about safe medications for conception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding Understand the importance of low disease activity before and during pregnancy Hear Leila's firsthand story of managing pregnancy with lupus and Sjögren's Discover why early conversations with rheumatologists matter even if you're not trying to conceive yet Explore the emotional and mental health side of pregnancy with chronic illness Get tips for building a supportive care team including maternal-fetal medicine specialists   Links & Resources Have questions about this episode or topics you want to hear us bring to the table? Email us at podcast@aiarthritis.org  Follow AiArthritis on all social media platforms @IFAiArthritis Sign up for our Monthly AiArthritis Voices 360 Talk Show newsletter! HERE   Connect with our Co Hosts: Leila is the Health Education Manager at the International Foundation for AiArthritis. She is a person living with Lupus and Sjögren's disease. She is passionate about inclusion and diversity in health education and meeting individuals where they are at in order to learn in a way that resonates with them.

A court win for an Oregon mom who wants to help kids in foster care, OB-GYNs and state pro-life laws, explaining the “heat index” and police use private DNA labs to help solve cold cases. Plus, and unexpected lunch date, Cal Thomas on the Gaza food crisis, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Ambassadors Impact Network. Providing faith driven entrepreneurs the opportunity to apply for funding that aligns with their values. More at ambassadorsimpact.comFrom Nicea Conference 2025, a celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, the most widely confessed and majestic expression of the Christian faith, underpinning the essence of the gospel we confess. Join church leaders from over two dozen countries in the same place Christians gathered 1700 years ago. WORLD subscribers enjoy 20% conference registration with promo code WORLD20. Visit www.niceaconference.comAnd from WatersEdge Kingdom Investments — personal investments that build churches. 5.05% APY on a three-month term. WatersEdge.com/investWatersEdge Kingdom Investments - WatersEdge securities are subject to certain risk factors as described in our Offering Circular and are not FDIC or SIPC insured. This is not an offer to sell or solicit securities. WatersEdge offers and sells securities only where authorized; this offering is made solely by our Offering Circular.

Send me a text! I'd LOVE to hear your feedback on this episode!My guest is Dr. Bruce Dorr, MD, OBGYN & Senior Medical Advisor for Biote.  We talk menopause & also discuss the article from the NY Times released on February 1, 2023 Women Have Been Misled About Menopause.The conversation around menopause is changing dramatically, but are women getting accurate information about what's actually happening in their bodies? Dr. Bruce Dorr, a board-certified OBGYN specializing in hormone optimization, joins Sandy to challenge widespread misconceptions and reveal what many women aren't being told about their changing hormones.This eye-opening discussion ventures far beyond hot flashes to explore how hormone imbalances affect virtually every bodily system. Dr. Dorr explains the shocking finding that joint pain—not hot flashes—tops the list of menopausal symptoms, and why so many women mistakenly attribute their discomfort to "just getting older." You'll discover the critical connection between hormone levels and brain health, including recent research linking hot flash severity to brain lesions similar to those found in Alzheimer's disease.The conversation tackles the infamous Women's Health Initiative study that scared millions away from hormone therapy, with Dr. Dorr clarifying why bioidentical hormones differ fundamentally from synthetic options. He offers a compelling analogy: "Not all estrogen is the same—it's like comparing ethanol to methanol. Both are alcohol, but one helps you feel good while the other can kill you." This distinction proves crucial for women weighing their treatment options.Most powerfully, Dr. Dorr addresses why standard medical care often fails menopausal women, with 60% of OBGYNs prescribing antidepressants rather than addressing hormonal root causes. He explains how pellet therapy works as an alternative delivery system and shares stories of patients whose lives were transformed once their hormones were properly balanced. If you're navigating perimenopause or menopause—or simply want to understand what lies ahead—this conversation provides essential information for making informed decisions about your health and vitality.Support the showPlease rate & review my podcast with a few kind words on Apple or Spotify. Subscribe wherever you listen, share this episode with a friend, and follow me below. This truly gives back & helps me keep bringing amazing guests & topics every week.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandyknutrition/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sandyknutritionTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sandyknutritionYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIh48ov-SgbSUXsVeLL2qAgRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-5461001Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyknutrition/Substack: https://sandykruse.substack.com/Podcast Website: https://sandykruse.ca

Breast pain is one of the most common—and most ignored—issues women face from puberty through post-menopause. In this episode of Asking for a Friend, I sit down with Debbie and Troy Sutton, the inspiring mother-son duo behind The Healing Bra—a revolutionary product offering real relief for breast discomfort through every stage of life.From painful mammograms and postpartum nursing to menopause and breast cancer recovery, The Healing Bra's temperature therapy pads are changing the way women manage their comfort. What started as a simple question—"Why isn't there anything for this?"—sparked an invention that's now easing pain and empowering women everywhere.Whether you're a nursing mom, an athlete, in cancer treatment, or dealing with hormone shifts, you'll want to hear how this simple, genius idea is redefining breast wellness and self-care.You can find The Healing Bras and Healing Pads https://thehealingbras.com/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thehealingbras/In this episode, we cover:[01:50] The painful mammogram that sparked the idea[04:10] Why nothing existed for breast pain—and the market gap they uncovered[06:40] How The Healing Bra works (and how it doesn't replace your bra)[09:25] Hot therapy vs cold therapy: use cases from nursing to menopause[12:15] Surprising benefits for athletes and post-surgical recovery[15:45] Partnering with cancer orgs, OB/GYNs, and wellness professionals[18:20] How this journey turned into a mission to serve millions of women[22:00] The future of The Healing Bra and upcoming product expansions_________________________________________Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanHave questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:mfolanfasterway@gmail.com After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Dr. Mosses comes to Maternal Resources after serving as the Medical Director of the OB/GYN department at Ezra Medical Center in Brooklyn, where he built a thriving obstetric practice from the ground up, now averaging over 50–60 deliveries per month. Prior to that, he was a senior attending physician at NYU Langone in Midwood, Brooklyn, where he maintained a cesarean section rate of under 10%—a testament to his skill in supporting vaginal births, including twin deliveries and VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean). His approach combines clinical rigor with a strong belief in giving patients safe options for physiologic birth. Expertise in Vaginal Twins, VBACs, and Minimally Invasive Surgery Known for his hands-on experience with high-volume deliveries, Dr. Mosses has a deep expertise in managing vaginal twin deliveries and has successfully supported many patients through VBACs. He has performed thousands of deliveries and a wide range of gynecologic surgeries using open, laparoscopic, and vaginal approaches. Whether managing a routine pregnancy or a more complex case, his goal is always the same: to deliver excellent care that respects patient autonomy and promotes healthy outcomes. This commitment perfectly mimmics the core of what Maternal Resources is all about. Training, Awards, and Teaching Excellence Dr. Mosses completed his OB/GYN residency as Chief Resident at Richmond University Medical Center, where he received the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons Award and completed advanced training in gynecologic oncology at Sloan Kettering. He has also supervised and trained residents at multiple academic institutions, including NYU Langone and Lutheran Medical Center. His academic background, combined with his leadership and research accolades, reflects his ongoing commitment to advancing women's health. Dr. A. Jay Mosses has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of obstetrics and gynecology with several prestigious awards. During his residency at Richmond University Medical Center, he was honored with the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons Award, acknowledging his excellence in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Additionally, his research on the use of double balloon cervical ripening catheters in managing massive hemorrhage in cervical ectopic pregnancies earned him the First Place Award at the 2016 Annual Residents' and Fellows' Research Paper Competition. These accolades reflect his commitment to advancing clinical care through both surgical skill and academic research. We're honored to have Dr. Mosses on our team and know our patients will benefit from his skill, warmth, and unwavering dedication to their care.   YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

Howard and Antonia dive into their tenth season with a critical look at several new studies. Topics include:• Estrogen-soaked vaginal packing after surgery lacks evidence for benefits while carrying unnecessary costs• Recent studies on vaginal birth after cesarean deserve careful interpretation beyond aggregate outcomes• Hospital uterine rupture rate is 0.2-0.4%, with only 8% resulting in catastrophic outcomes when properly managed• Warnings against infant co-sleeping date back to ancient times, predating modern pediatric recommendations• Vaginal hysterectomy continues to decline despite shorter OR times, lower costs, and similar complication rates• Swedish study shows only 25% of ideal candidates receive vaginal hysterectomies, with projections showing disastrous decline in rates of appropriate surgeriesStay tuned for our next episode featuring Scott Guthrie discussing neonatal resuscitation and other neonatal concepts important for OB-GYNs to understand.00:00:00 Season 10 Introduction00:01:13 No Evidence for Estrogen Packs After Surgery00:10:35 VBAC Studies: Interpreting Maternal Risks00:19:12 Catastrophic Uterine Rupture: Hospital vs Home00:28:53 King Solomon and Infant Co-Sleeping Dangers00:39:50 Vaginal Hysterectomy: Declining Despite Evidence00:54:09 Cost and Time Analysis of Hysterectomy Routes01:06:24 Closing Thoughts on Season 10Follow us on Instagram @thinkingaboutobgyn.

Guest: Sudheer JayaprabhuOrganization: American Association of Pro-Life OB/GYNsTopic: to correlated with the 3rd anniversary of the Dobbs decision, analysis of misinformation being circulated regarding the sanctity of lifeAAPLOG Website: aaplog.org

Guest: Sudheer JayaprabhuOrganization: American Association of Pro-Life OB/GYNsTopic: to correlated with the 3rd anniversary of the Dobbs decision, analysis of misinformation being circulated regarding the sanctity of lifeAAPLOG Website: aaplog.org

You're listening to Burnt Toast! Today, my guest is Cole Kazdin.Cole is an Emmy Award-winning television journalist and author of What's Eating Us: Women, Food, and the Epidemic of Body Anxiety. Cole came on Burnt Toast about two years ago to talk about What's Eating Us when it first came out—and the way the eating disorder industrial complex leaves so many folks struggling to find durable recovery.Today, Cole is joining us again as an eating disorder expert, but also as a fellow woman in perimenopause… who is reeling right now from all the diet culture nonsense coming for us in this stage of life.Our goal today is to call out the anti-fatness, ageism and diet culture running rampant in peri/menopause-adjacent media. I know a lot of you have more specific questions about menopause (like how much protein DO we need?). Part 2 of the Burnt Toast Menopause Conversation will be coming in a few weeks with Mara Gordon, MD joining us to tackle those topics. So drop your questions in the comments for Dr. Mara! This episode is free but if you value this conversation, please consider supporting our work with a paid subscription. Burnt Toast is 100% reader- and listener-supported. We literally can't do this without you.PS. You can always listen to this pod right here in your email, where you'll also receive full transcripts (edited and condensed for clarity). But please also follow us in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and/or Pocket Casts! And if you enjoy today's conversation, please tap the heart on this post — likes are one of the biggest drivers of traffic from Substack's Notes, so that's a super easy, free way to support the show!Episode 199VirginiaSo, Cole, you are back because you emailed me to say: Is all of menopause a diet? What are we doing? By which I mean menopause and perimenopause—we're going to kind of lump them together everyone. They are distinct life stages. But in terms of the cultural discourse, they're very much hooked together.You emailed and said:Look, I'm not a menopause expert, but I am an eating disorder expert and I'm seeing a lot of stuff that I don't like. How do we take a skeptical but informed eye about the messaging we get as we age? How do we get through this without developing an eating disorder as we are in the full witch phase of our lives?So, let's just start by getting a lay of the land. What are our first impressions as women newly arriving in perimenopause?ColeThere's something that is so exciting about all the books that are out and the research that's emerging, from actual OB/GYNs to the existence of the Menopause Society to Naomi Watts wrote a book about menopause. I think we're the first real generation to have menopause information and conversations.When I asked my mom about her perimenopause and menopause she doesn't really remember it. So I think I really want to preface this by saying how valuable this is. When I sat down to start looking at the available information and read these books, I was stunned by some of the symptoms that I've never heard of—tinnitus, joint pain, right? Things that aren't just hot flashes, which I think are the standard menopause symptoms that we tend to hear about.VirginiaThere are a lot. It's like, everything that could be happening to your body.ColeAnd then very quickly… there's a sharp left turn to intermittent fasting. VirginiaYes. It's like, wait, what? I want to know about my joint pain? What are we doing?ColeAnd it felt to me, like some sort of betrayal. Because you get on the train of “we're going to learn about something that's happening to our bodies that no one's ever really talked about or paid attention to before.” And, then it's oh wait, I have to track my protein. What just happened? I'm having so much trouble with that clash of gratitude and absolute hunger—pun intended, sorry, there's no other word—for the information and research. And then being told, “But no hunger!”VirginiaI mean, this is always the story with women's health, right? Women's health is so ignored and forgotten by the mainstream—the media, the medical system—so we are left to put it together on our own.And of course, we have a proud tradition of centuries of midwives teaching women about our bodies. It's the Our Bodies, Ourselves legacy. There's all this wisdom that women figure out about how our bodies work, what we need to know to take care of ourselves. But because it's being ignored by scientific research, it's being ignored by the mainstream, and it is this sort of an underground thing—that also opens up a really clear market for diet culture.So it's really easy to find an influencer—and they may even be a doctor or have some other credentials attached to their name—who you feel like, “Oh, she's voicing something that I am feeling. I'm being ignored by my regular doctor and here's this person on Tiktok who really seems to get it,” …and then also wants to sell me a supplement line. It's so quick to go to this place of it's just another Goop, basically.ColeAnd what if it didn't go there? What does the world look like where it doesn't go there? I am really hyper conscious of my own vulnerabilities—even though I feel very, very, very, very solid in my eating disorder recovery. I don't go there anymore. I know there are vulnerabilities there, because I struggled on and off with eating disorders for decades. But, I really feel solid in my recovery. And then I wonder if I should start tracking my protein? I was shocked to even hear that in my own head, and then to hear my very sophisticated turn of “well, you're not looking at calories, you're not trying to get smaller, you're done with that for real for real. But you should probably start looking at how much protein you're getting!” Wait a minute, stop!VirginiaWhere's that coming from?ColeI'm fortunate enough that because of my background and because I wrote a book on this, I can reach out to top eating disorder researchers in the country, and just ask a question. Isn't this kind of funny that I did this? Isn't that interesting? What do you think? And to be met with: Do not go near tracking apps! That is not safe for you. DO NOT track your protein. It's not funny. I did that last night. I just reached out to one of the top eating disorder experts in the country, because this is something we don't talk about. But I think with something like intermittent fasting, which we hear about in all aspects of wellness diet culture, we have to remember that intermittent fasting is extreme food restriction. Our bodies panic when we fast. But these can set us on roads towards very disordered relationships with food in our bodies. And the worst case is developing an eating disorder.VirginiaRight, or living with a subclinical eating disorder that makes you miserable, even if no one ever says, yes, you have a diagnosis.ColeAbsolutely. Thinking about protein every day is stressful and just being consumed with this idea of what we're eating and how much we're eating and what we need to be doing. And the fear of the consequences, right? If I don't track my protein, I'm going to break a hip, right? I mean, I'm condensing the messaging. But if you follow the steps, that's kind of where it goes.VirginiaWell, and I don't think it's even just “I'm going to break a hip.” I think it's “I'm going to become old and vulnerable and undesirable.” The hip is symbolic of this cultural narrative about older women's bodies, which is that you are going to become disposable and irrelevant. And the fear that's stoking us, that's making us hungry for the information—which is valid, it is a mysterious phase of life that we don't know enough about. But there's this fear of of irrelevancy and and not being attractive, and all of that. You can't tease that out from “I'm worried about my bone density.” It's all layered in there.ColeAnd my own OB/GYN told me at our last visit—she offers a separate let's have a talk about perimenopause appointment, which I think is great. It's essentially about hormone replacement therapy and when and if that might be part of your journey. But she told me that most people who don't have some immediate symptom like hot flashes are coming to her in perimenopause because of weight gain or redistribution of weight, which is very normal during this phase of life. And they are asking if hormone replacement therapy could “fix” that issue.So it's the post-baby body thing all over again. As if there's a return to something, as opposed to a forward movement. But the fact that that's an entry point for a lot of these menopause physicians that write books and have a presence on social media. It's very, very connected to an audience that is looking for weight loss.VirginiaI think there is something about any mysterious health situation—whether it's perimenopause, or I see a similar narrative happen around diabetes often—where the condition gets held out as this worst case scenario that's so so bad that therefore any concerns you had about is it disordered to diet? Is it risky for me to count protein? All of that kind of goes out the window because we get laser focused and we have to solve this thing. You no longer get to have feelings about how pursuing weight loss can be damaging for you. This physical health thing trumps all the emotions.ColeIt's a medical issue now.VirginiaRight! I'm at sea in this whole new complicated medical landscape of menopause. I don't know what it is, so obviously, whatever I used to feel about needing to accept my body no longer applies. I don't get to do that anymore. I have to just like, drill in and get serious about this.I've had older women say this to me. Like, “you can be body positive in your 30s or early 40s, but get over 50, sweetheart, and you're not going to be able to do that anymore.” But why not? That should be available to us throughout our lives. So that frustrates me. Because simultaneously, we have no good information, we have no good science about what's happening to us. And yet menopause weight loss is given this gravitas. You can't argue with it, and you have to just be okay eating less for the rest of your life now.ColeMaybe this is where body liberation is in one of its most critical stages? To develop it here in this phase of life. Because I think what complicates it further, and I will give people the benefit of the doubt that it is not nefarious when the messaging is also married to we're not trying to get smaller, we're trying to get stronger. But here's also how to get rid of belly fat. And that I find genuinely confusing, I think, oh good, you're not talking about weight loss. Oh, wait, you are talking about weight loss. But is being stronger now a proxy for weight loss? You're telling people not to diet.We see this in other arenas, and I even wonder, gee, now that these weight loss drugs are so ubiquitous, is menopause, the next frontier of of health and weight being conflated? And it's such a letdown. I mean, I know that sounds so simple it's just so disappointing. It's so disappointing.VirginiaYou called it the Full Witch Phase. This should be a stage of our life that's more free than ever before, right? We're not 20-somethings trying to find a man to be a baby daddy, we're through with that pressure.ColeNo this is the taking pottery lessons, stranger sex, no pregnancy phase! Maybe, I don't know. For some people.VirginiaIt seems like it should be!ColeIt could be.VirginiaAnd yet, here is all this body stuff/weight stuff coming in.And women go through this at every stage of our life. I'm watching my my middle schooler in puberty, where weight gain is absolutely normal and what we want their bodies to be doing. Reproductive years, childbirth, weight gain—this is a part of having a body with a uterus is that you are going to go through phases where it is normal for your body to get bigger. And in every one of these stages, we're told it's terrible and you should avoid it at all costs. That said, I do feel like in some of the other arenas, like around pregnancy, there's a lot of pressure on women to get their bodies back after they have babies. But you can find a counter-narrative that's saying, no, I don't have to erase the evidence that I had a child. My body can be different now, I'm going to embrace that. There are those of us out there saying that.But I don't see that counter-narrative around menopause. I don't see women saying, “Yep, you're going to have a bigger stomach in menopause. It makes sense because of the estrogen drop off.” This is why bodies change in menopause. Let's just embrace it. Instead, it feels like this, of all the weight gains, you must fight this one the most. And I don't understand. I mean, again, I think there's a link to ageism there. But what else do you think is going on there?ColeI mean, it's ageism, it's ableism, it's beauty standards. It's all the things. It's how we're valued as women. I want to dive deeper in this to see the fat menopause doctors. I would like to find some of those. I don't know.VirginiaListeners, if you know some, drop them in the comments please. We want to talk to the fat menopuase doctors! ColeTo just see people that look different from some of these “classic doctors”e we see on Instagram and Tiktok, to just talk about what do we really have to think about during menopause? We know that the drop in estrogen affects from the brain, affects everything in our bodies, and how we don't want to lose sight of that because we're trying to get rid of belly fat either.VirginiaRight, right? I think of Jessica Slice, who I had the on the podcast recently, talking about differentiating between alleviating suffering and trying to “fix” your body. Or caring for your body instead of trying to force it into an ideal. We're not saying that this isn't a time of life where women need extra support, where our bodies need extra care. That makes sense to me. My face does this weird flushing thing now it never used to do. I just suddenly get blotchy for like, 20 minutes and feel really hot. But only in my face. It's not even a hot flash. So there are all these wild things our bodies are doing that we deserve to have information about, and we deserve to have strategies to manage them. I mean, the face blotchy thing is not really impacting my quality of life. But there are a lot that do. The night sweats are terrible. I want strategies to alleviate that suffering. And it just seems like what a disservice we do when all of the advice is filtered through weight loss instead of actually focusing on the symptoms that are causing distress.ColeYes, yes. And is it boring to talk about weight fluctuation? Because I find it interesting that weight fluctuation is so deeply correlated with so many health problems. There has been research on this for years. That's why I ask if it's boring, because we know this, and we don't talk about it nearly enough, but we know this. The research is so, so so deeply there. It's correlated with chronic illnesses. And who among us hasn't in their history had weight fluctuation? With our diets or whatever our behaviors are. And so what is weight fluctuation going to do in menopause? I doubt that's being studied.I was looking at weight fluctuation and fertility when I was researching my book, and there aren't those studies, because fertility studies are much shorter term, and weight fluctuation studies are longer term. So never do they meet.But could weight fluctuation impact negatively our menopause experience? It would make perfect sense if that if that were the case.VirginiaYes. This maybe isn't a stage of life wher you want to be weight cycling and going up and down, and deliberately pursuing going down, because there might be cost to it. I mean, we do know that higher body weight is really protective against osteoporosis, for example. If you're concerned about breaking a hip, pursuing weight loss, I would argue, is counter to that goal for a lot of us. Researchers call this the obesity paradox, which is an extremely anti-fat, terrible term. But we know that folks in bigger bodies have lower mortality rates, that they survive things like cancer treatments and heart surgery with better outcomes.So as we're thinking of our aging years, where we're all going to be dealing with some type of chronic condition or other, some type of cancer, heart stuff, like this is what's going to happen right. Then pursuing thinness at any cost is not actually going to be the prescription for that. There's a good reason to hold onto your body fat.ColeAnd I come back to the stress piece of this, which I don't think can be overstated. Stress is so detrimental to our health, and this preoccupation with food, body exercise, tracking apps, all of that really does elevate our stress. And I think we're so used to it. It's invisible in so many ways because it's bundled in with so many other stressors in our lives. Eliminating the stressor of what am I eating? Am I getting enough fiber? All of that is really, really can be a crucial piece of having a better experience in our bodies and of our health. It's that Atkins echo over and over and over again, which I thought we had decided already we were done with. But it's those two triggers, the protein, resistance training, lifting.I think it comes back to, you can control your behaviors. You can't control your weight. And if weight is ever going to be some sort of goal, you're really setting yourself up for stress, health problems, and again, at worst, an eating disorder.VirginiaAbsolutely. And we should caveat here: I personally love lifting weights. It's my favorite kind of workout. If these things bring you joy, keep doing that. We're not saying nobody should lift weights or nobody should eat protein. I just feel like I have to slip that in because people get frustrated.ColeNo, I think that's important, and I am the same as you. I love lifting weights, and for me, it has actually been an antidote to a lot of the compulsive cardio I did when I had an eating disorder. There's something about lifting weights that is so grounding. Every month or so, I go to this this guy—he does training in his garage—and we lift weights. And I told him before our first session, look, I'm recovering anorexic, I'm perimenopausal. I'm not here to have language like “tone up” and all of that. I do not want to do it. I want to lift something heavy and put it down. That's what I'm here for. I was a little aggressive.VirginiaI mean, you have to put the boundary, though, you really do.ColeBut to his credit, he has respected that. And we lift heavy shit and put it down, and it is so so good for me. In repairing my relationship with exercise, which for me was one of the biggest challenges in recovery. So when someone says, lift weights, I'm here for that, because I really enjoy that. But I agree with you. I think it's so important that we go with our ability and something we enjoy.VirginiaThe main reason I lift weights is because I do a lot of gardening, and I have to be able to lift a heavy bag of soil or a pot or dig big holes and do these things.We need to remember that these things, eating protein, lifting weight, it's supposed to support you living the life you want to live. It's not a gold star you need to get every day to be valuable as a person. I can tell weightlifting all winter is really helping me garden this year. That's what I did it for. So you can recognize the value that these things have in your life—I'm less cranky if I eat protein at breakfast. I make it through my work morning better. And not be measuring our success by whether or not we're doing those things and like, how we're doing them and counting how much we're doing them every day.ColeWell, that is key. I mean, first of all, I will say there are a few things more gratifying than hauling a 40 pound bag of cat litter up the stairs to my second floor apartment. I feel like I need some sort of like, are people watching me? Am I getting a medal for this? Even if no one is.VirginiaI totally agree.ColeIt is exciting, me, alone with myself, walking up the stairs with that, and it's not that hard. I get excited. I lift weights so I can carry this bag of cat litter. I mean, it's more complex than that, but that is a very significant percentage of why I lift weights.VirginiaBecause that impacts your daily functioning and happiness.ColeAnd I think with eating, I find I'm in a better mood when I'm carbing it out. You know what I mean? I'm sure protein is great. And I have some. I do all the things, whatever. And everyone's body is different. Everyone responds differently. But some people will say, oh, when I have salmon, I just feel fantastic or something. I don't know. VirginiaHave they tried pasta? Do they not know about pasta?ColeFor me, I feel better when I eat—it almost doesn't matter what it is. And if I don't eat, then I have low energy and brain fog and don't feel good. VirginiaAnd again, it's because of the fear mongering around the stage of life. It's because of this you're now in this murky waters where everything could go wrong with your body at any moment type of thing. I mean, this is what diet culture teaches us. Control what you can control. Okay, well, probably I can't control what's happening to my hip bones, but we think we should be able to control how we how we exercise and losing weight. The fact is, your day to day context is going to change. Having arbitrary standards you have to hold yourself to because of vague future health threat stuff is unhelpful when you may have a week where you don't have time to make all the salmon and you have to just be okay with eating takeout. There's no grace for just being a person with a lot else going on. And every woman in perimenopause and menopause is a person with a lot going on.All right, we are going chat a little bit about one of the folks that we see on the socials talking about menopause relentlessly —Dr. Mary Claire Haver.ColeShe wrote the book The New Menopause, which is a really great, significant book in many ways in terms of providing information that has never been provided before. VirginiaOh yes, this is @drmaryclaire.ColeWhen I bought her book, I saw that she has also written The Galveston Diet, and I said to myself, hmm. And then bought the book anyway. And you know now it all makes sense. Because The Galveston Diet is is very geared towards the perimenopausal, menopausal lose belly fat, but also have more energy help your menopause symptoms, right? How can you knock that? Come on.And so it's very sort of interwoven with all the diet stuff. So it's not surprising that she would bring so much of that up in her menopause book and a lot on her Instagram. She wears a weighted vest all the time. I thought, “Should I get a weighted vest?” And I again, I wasn't sure if I was doing it for menopause diet culture reasons, or I just love to lift heavy things reasons. I thought, “That could be cool. Maybe that'll be fun. I'll just wear a weighted vest around the house, like this woman, who's the menopause authority.”I guess what's coming across in this interview is how vulnerable I am to any advertising!VirginiaNo, it's relatable. We all are vulnerable! I mean, I'm looking at her Instagram right now and I'm simultaneously exhausted at the prospect of wearing a weighted vest around my house and, like…well…ColeWouldn't that be convenient? But let me save you a minute here, because when you go to whatever your favorite website is to buy weighted vests, and you look at the reviews, it's split between people saying, “This is the best weighted vest [insert weighted vest brand here],” and other people saying, “Gee, the petroleum smell hasn't gone away after two months.”VirginiaOkay. I can't be walking around my house smelling petroleum. No, thank you.ColeBecause they're filled with sand that comes from who knows where, and the petroleum smell doesn't go away. And according to some reviews I read—because I did go down the rabbit hole with this—it actually increases if you sweat. So I thought, You know what, I can do this in other ways.VirginiaI'm sure there are folks for whom the weighted vest is a revelation. And, it's a very diet culture thing to need to be alway optimizing an activity. You can't just go for a walk. You need to be walking with a weighted vest or with weighted ankles. Why do we need to add this added layer of doing the most to everything?And I'm looking at a reel now where she talks about the supplements she's taking. Dr. Mary Claire is taking a lot of supplements.ColeSo many supplements! VirginiaVitamin D, K, omega threes, fiber, creatine, collagen, probiotic… That's a lot to be taking every day. That's a really expensive way to manage your health. Supplements are not covered by insurance. There's a lot of privilege involved in who can pursue gold standard healthy menopause lifestyle habits.ColeAnd it's always great to ask the question, who's getting rich off of the thing that I'm supposed to be doing for my health? Because it's never you.VirginiaYes. She keeps referencing the same brand — Pause.Cole It's hers. It's her brand.VirginiaOh there you go. So, yeah, taking advice from someone with a supplement line, I think, is really complicated. This is why it's so difficult to find a dermatologist as well. Any medical professional who's selling their own product line has gone into a gray area between medical ethics and capitalism that is very difficult to steer through.ColeAnd even in the most, let's say, the most noblest, pure intentions, it still creates that doubt, I think, with patients.VirginiaI'm interested to see some “body positive” rhetoric coming in. There's a reel I'm looking at from May, where she's talking about, “When you were 12, you wanted to be smaller…” The message is, as you get older, you're constantly realizing that the body you once had was the perfect body.And so she's arguing that we shouldn't this pursuit of thinness can leave us more fragile, more frail and less resilient as we age. Instead of chasing someone else's standard, celebrate the strength, power and uniqueness of you. “Because your body's worth isn't measured in dress sizes. It's measured in the life it lets you live.” Which is kind of what we've been saying. And this is from a woman who sells a diet plan, so I don't know how to square that.ColeThat's what I'm struggling with, with this whole menopause thing! Because when someone starts selling me supplements, or talking about weight loss, talking about tracking your protein, I no longer trust them. And yet, it's not so black or white, because there's a lot good information too. She's helping a lot of people, myself included, with the information about menopause symptoms and the history of research or lack thereof, on this. It's really valuable, and it is hard to square that with the other part.VirginiaIt says to me that these people are choosing profit. I mean, maybe this isn't the piece she believes the most. Maybe she cares more about getting the information about menopause out there, and cares more about correcting those imbalances—but she's also comfortable profiting off this piece. And that's something that you just have to hold together. And I mean, listeners have been asking me to do a menopause episode for like, months and months. And the reason I keep not doing it, and the reason, when you emailed, I was like, Oh, good, there's finally a way to do this, is I can't find an expert who is a menopause and perimenopause expert who is not pushing weight loss in a way that I am uncomfortable with. There certainly isn't a social media influencer person doing it. I mean, my own midwife is great and extremely weight neutral. I hope people are finding, individually, providers who are really helpful. But the discourse really is centering around “you're in this terrifying stage of life you have to fight looking older at every turn,” and that includes pursuing thinness now more than ever.ColeAnd: Don't worry, we'll fix this belly fat thing.It's so difficult to find providers who can talk about menopause, period. I have friends who went through menopause early and they were given every test in the world except a conversation about menopause, and found out after thousands of dollars and spinal taps and and really big procedures, that it was early menopause. So it's so difficult to find a provider who is educated in menopause and can talk with you about it in a constructive way. So that's the first step.Then to be so audacious as to hope for a provider who will then be weight inclusive. Maybe we're not there yet.VirginiaWe're really reaching for the stars.I hate to end on a depressing note, but I do think that's where we are. I think it is hopefully helpful that we're just voicing that and voicing this tension, that we're seeing this disconnect, that we're seeing in this conversation, that there needs to be better better information. That we need menopause voices who are not selling us things and pushing weight loss.But yeah, this is, this is where we are. So I appreciate you talking with me.ColeMe too, and the answer to menopause is not weight loss.VirginiaIt really does not seem like it should ever have to be. It really is never the answer.ColeIsn't the whole point caftans??VirginiaCan we please get to the caftan stage? I've been training my whole life to be in my caftan era. It's all I want.ButterVirginia Well, speaking of caftans and things that make us delighted, Cole, do you have any Butter for us this week?ColeI do. My Butter is very specific. It's my friend Catherine's swimming pool. A good friend of mine from New York is now here in Los Angeles, where I live, helping to take care of her mother. And they have a lovely house with a heated swimming pool in the midst of a garden. I've never had the opportunity to be a garden person because of where I have lived. I would love the chance one day.VirginiaIn your Full Witch era!ColeIn my Full Witch era. Lavender and roses around the swimming pool. It's kind of like a three or four hour vacation. I went there the other day. I brought my son. He was absolutely delighted to be out of our two bedroom apartment. So my Butter is my goal. My summer goals is more of my friend Catherine's pool. And whatever that is for anyone else, I wish that for them, too.VirginiaYes, I love this Butter. I am going to double your Butter, because we have a small pool that I love. It's not a full-size swimming pool. It's called a plunge pool, but it's big enough for a couple of us, to get in. And it's in my garden, which is a magical combination. And the thing about being having pool privilege—which I own. I have a pool, so I have pool privilege—the thing about pool privilege is your kids will then disgust you, because they will stop caring that the pool is there.It's just like everyone gets a backyard swing set. It becomes window dressing. They don't see it. They're like, “I don't need to go in the pool. I don't want to go in the pool.” And you're just like, do you not know how privileged you are? Do you not know how lucky you are that we have a pool? But I realized last night the trick to it. We were having dinner on the back patio, and I wanted them to go swimming after dinner, because I'm trying to wear out my kids. And they didn't want to go in. And then I was like, “Well, what if you went in with your clothes on?” And they were like, oh my god, this is the best ever. I just let them jump right in. And then I went and put a swimsuit on, because that is not my journey.Then we hung out in the pool, and once I get them in there, we have the best conversations. Pools, being in any water, is such a nice way to bond with your kids, because you can't really be on your phone. Something about the water, it just puts everyone in a good mood.But yeah, for anyone else with pool privilege and annoying children, just let them go in with their clothes on. It's fine. You're going to be dealing with wet clothes anyway afterwards.ColeThat is such a constructive menopause tip.VirginiaTrue. The reason I wanted to go in the pool is because I was freaking hot. And I could have gone in without them, but I was trying to be a fun mom, you know? Trying to have a magical moment, damn it.Well, Cole, this was wonderful. Tell folks where we can follow you, how we can support your work, where we send our vents about our menopause symptoms.ColeI'm on Instagram and have been kind of quiet on Instagram lately, but I'll get loud if we talk about menopause.VirginiaAll right, all right. I'm here for it. Thank you so much for doing this. This was really delightful.ColeThank you so much. So good to talk.The Burnt Toast Podcast is produced and hosted by Virginia Sole-Smith (follow me on Instagram) and Corinne Fay, who runs @SellTradePlus, and Big Undies.The Burnt Toast logo is by Deanna Lowe.Our theme music is by Farideh.Tommy Harron is our audio engineer.Thanks for listening and for supporting anti-diet, body liberation journalism! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit virginiasolesmith.substack.com/subscribe

In episode 78 of Venture Everywhere, Alessandra Henderson, co-founder and former CEO of Elektra Health and LP of Everywhere Ventures, chats with Fifi Kara, co-founder and CEO of Aster — an AI-powered operating system for women's health clinics working outside traditional hospital systems. Fifi shares Aster's origins, sparked by a family medical crisis, and its evolution into a mission-driven platform designed to equip midwives and OB-GYNs with smarter, more supportive tools. Fifi also discusses how Aster is replacing outdated legacy software with a unified platform that streamlines workflows, enhances clinical decision-making, and expands access to patient-centered women's healthcare across the U.S.In this episode, you will hear:Delivering care in rural areas affected by labor unit closures and private equity buyoutsCo-designing with midwives and OB-GYNs to match real clinical workflowsExpanding access to care by supporting out-of-hospital women's health providersLeveraging Aster's data to build inclusive, AI-powered clinical support toolsBalancing using existing language models vs. building proprietary solutionsLearn more about Fifi Kara | AsterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fifikara Website: https://www.astercare.com Learn more about Alessandra Henderson | Everywhere Ventures | Elektra HealthLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessandrahendersonWebsite: https://everywhere.vc/ Website: https://www.elektrahealth.com

Episode Summary: Breast Cancer Prevention Just Took Two Big Steps ForwardIn this short but powerful episode, Georgie breaks down two groundbreaking developments in breast cancer prevention that could reshape how we think about screening, menopause care, and early intervention:1️⃣ An FDA-authorized AI tool—Clairity Breast—that predicts a woman's five-year breast cancer risk from a standard mammogram, even when it appears normal.2️⃣ A menopause drug, Duavee, that may help prevent invasive breast cancer in women with a history of high-risk lesions like DCIS.These tools aren't just high-tech—they're practical, accessible, and represent a smarter, more equitable approach to women's health.Whether you're a clinician, policymaker, or woman navigating your own care, this episode breaks down what you need to know.

In this powerful, long-form interview, Kristina Bauer returns to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast to share her in-depth story of surviving decades of misdiagnosed Lyme disease — from childhood illness and misdiagnoses to motherhood, advocacy, and remission. Diagnosed at age 40 after 32 years of medical dismissal, Kristina discusses her experience with congenital Lyme disease in her four children, postpartum Lyme flares, and her commitment to raising awareness through the Texas Lyme Alliance, Center for Lyme Action, and International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Ambassadorship. Her testimony covers essential ground: pediatric Lyme, maternal Lyme, psychiatric symptoms like Lyme rage, postpartum depression misdiagnosis, sexual transmission, and the need for insurance and diagnostic reform. This episode is a masterclass in Lyme disease education and empowerment, especially for women, mothers, and families navigating complex Lyme journeys. Key Topics Discussed Early Lyme Exposure: Tick bites at age 8 in Illinois and decades of misdiagnosis (juvenile arthritis, Crohn's, ulcers) Chronic Symptoms: Sinus infections, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), fibromyalgia, neurological and psychiatric symptoms Postpartum Lyme Flares: Crushing fatigue, misdiagnosed postpartum depression, and suicidal ideation risk Congenital Lyme Disease: How all four of her children were born with Lyme and are now in remission Mental Health Awareness: Lyme rage, mood swings, panic attacks, and the importance of therapy Tick-Borne Disease Advocacy: Legislative work in Texas, ILADS, educating OB-GYNs, and pushing for proper diagnostic protocols Medical System Failures: Inadequate Lyme testing, gaslighting, high insurance costs for chronic illness Lyme & Pregnancy Research Study: An open call for pregnant individuals diagnosed with Lyme disease during their current pregnancy, OR with post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) in the past 5 years. Learn More / Apply Kristina's Healing Protocols IV and Oral Antibiotics (33 pills/day for 4 years) Ozone Sauna Therapy Dual Infrared Sauna IV Glutathione and Vitamin C Autologous Stem Cell Therapy Advocacy Calls to Action Get tested with qualified Lyme-literate doctors (LLMDs) Pre-conception testing for both partners Consider cord blood testing for newborns (e.g., IGeneX) Push back against “one-dose doxycycline” treatment myths Advocate for maternal and congenital Lyme research funding Check out Kristina's Integrative Nutrition Health Coaching Memorable Quotes “Infection turned into action is the mindset I pass forward.” “A mom with Lyme can't be left alone with crushing fatigue and a newborn — it's not just postpartum, it's pathology.” “Doxy is not a one-stop shop. One tick bite can carry 19 pathogens with 100 strains.”

Vikram Bhaskran, CEO and Co-Founder, and Dr. Rohan Ramakrishna, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of Roon, have taken on the mission to provide trustworthy and personalized medical information to patients and caregivers. Leveraging technology and the expertise of medical professionals, Roon has created a comprehensive resource for navigating medical challenges. They emphasize the importance of addressing misinformation and providing accurate, science-based information. The platform is not intended to replace doctors, but to supplement relevant information and enable better communication with healthcare providers and improve patient outcomes. Vikram explains, "Our mission is to be the best place online for anyone navigating any health condition. I started the company really through my own journey as a caregiver to my dad, who had ALS. And in that journey, I had two insights. One is that the biggest tech companies fail us. And in this moment of crisis, most people navigating any health condition will turn to "Doctor Google" and Facebook groups, which can be an overwhelming experience. And so I felt we could do better as someone coming from the tech world. I was at Pinterest before this, and my second insight was that there's a finite number of doctors. And so the experience of health today for really anyone is that you spend a ton of time in waiting rooms. You spend a ton of time waiting for someone to answer your health questions. And so Roon was born out of those two insights. And our goal is to be the best online platform to scale the world's best medical experts and their knowledge." Rohan elaborates, "The doctors are from more than 70 different academic medical institutions, and the number is growing. They represent all the experts who have expertise to share alongside the health journeys we've launched. So as of today, we've launched brain cancer, ALS, dementia, Fertility and Family Building, PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, and we are soon to launch several other conditions related to women's health, including gynecological health. Our experts span the doctors you would expect, such as oncologists, neurologists, and OBGYNs, among others, but also social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and legal and financial counselors - really anyone who has real expertise that they can lend to the experience of a journey. So much of dementia care, for example, is not driven by your neurologist, but by the experience of caring for someone who needs help, whether it's at a memory care facility or a skilled nursing facility, dealing with issues that doctors typically don't have a great answer for."  #Roon #HealthcareInformation #MedAI #HealthcareOutcomes #DigitalHealth roon.com Download the transcript here

Vikram Bhaskran, CEO and Co-Founder, and Dr. Rohan Ramakrishna, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of Roon, have taken on the mission to provide trustworthy and personalized medical information to patients and caregivers. Leveraging technology and the expertise of medical professionals, Roon has created a comprehensive resource for navigating medical challenges. They emphasize the importance of addressing misinformation and providing accurate, science-based information. The platform is not intended to replace doctors, but to supplement relevant information and enable better communication with healthcare providers and improve patient outcomes. Vikram explains, "Our mission is to be the best place online for anyone navigating any health condition. I started the company really through my own journey as a caregiver to my dad, who had ALS. And in that journey, I had two insights. One is that the biggest tech companies fail us. And in this moment of crisis, most people navigating any health condition will turn to "Doctor Google" and Facebook groups, which can be an overwhelming experience. And so I felt we could do better as someone coming from the tech world. I was at Pinterest before this, and my second insight was that there's a finite number of doctors. And so the experience of health today for really anyone is that you spend a ton of time in waiting rooms. You spend a ton of time waiting for someone to answer your health questions. And so Roon was born out of those two insights. And our goal is to be the best online platform to scale the world's best medical experts and their knowledge." Rohan elaborates, "The doctors are from more than 70 different academic medical institutions, and the number is growing. They represent all the experts who have expertise to share alongside the health journeys we've launched. So as of today, we've launched brain cancer, ALS, dementia, Fertility and Family Building, PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, and we are soon to launch several other conditions related to women's health, including gynecological health. Our experts span the doctors you would expect, such as oncologists, neurologists, and OBGYNs, among others, but also social workers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and legal and financial counselors - really anyone who has real expertise that they can lend to the experience of a journey. So much of dementia care, for example, is not driven by your neurologist, but by the experience of caring for someone who needs help, whether it's at a memory care facility or a skilled nursing facility, dealing with issues that doctors typically don't have a great answer for."  #Roon #HealthcareInformation #MedAI #HealthcareOutcomes #DigitalHealth roon.com Listen to the podcast here

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of medical missions through the experiences of Dr. Benjamin DeLisa and Dr. Scott Ellis, both board-certified OB/GYNs and OB hospitalists. Having participated in multiple international medical mission trips, Dr. DeLisa and Dr. Ellis share how these experiences reignited their passion for medicine, deepened their sense of purpose, and alleviated the feeling of burnout.

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Jackie Piasta. Jackie is a Vanderbilt-trained nurse practitioner. She is board-certified in women's and gender health, and has been practicing since 2010. She serves on medical advisory committees for several foundations and co-hosts the justASK Podcast.  In our discussion today, we dive into the challenges menopausal women face with hormone replacement therapy due to the lack of provider education on the effects of oral estrogen, the importance of bio-individuality, and how nuanced messaging can make all the difference for women. Jackie unpacks the latest guidelines from the American Urological Society, which address vulvovaginal, urinary, and sexual health symptoms, and explains the importance of addressing those issues proactively. We also explore fertility tracking in perimenopause, especially for women using long-acting reversible contraception (LARCs), and the latest trends in hormone testing. You will not want to miss this insightful conversation where Jackie sheds light and offers practical guidance on the often-missed details of women's health. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why bio-individuality is essential in menopause treatments The challenges OB-GYNs and other clinicians face in staying updated on menopause treatments. Why healthcare providers must become more educated about hormone therapy Jackie explains the historical context surrounding the vilification of oral estrogen. How the new American Urological Society guidelines are now addressing symptoms of perimenopause and menopause Why vaginal laser therapy might be harmful for some individuals Why diagnosing menopause in women using long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) is so challenging Why hormone level labs are needed to guide clinical decision-making on menopause treatments Jackie highlights the need for more research to understand the hormone levels that protect bone health. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Jaclyn Piasta Monarch Health  Jackie on all social media: Jackiep_gynnp The justASK Podcast

Fibroids are incredibly common. Anywhere from 40% to 80% of people with a uterus will develop this growth, which is benign but can bring severe symptoms like pain, heavy bleeding, and reproductive issues. These symptoms can be not only physically debilitating but also cause emotional and social issues. During a trip to her home country of Jamaica in September 2024, host Sandra Lindsay, RN, interviewed three women whose lives have been deeply impacted by uterine fibroids for years. With the country facing a large backlog in this type of surgery, these women, like so many more, were unable to get surgery, which is why Sandra organized a team of OB/GYNs to travel with her to Jamaica to treat these women at no cost. In this episode, you'll hear their stories and learn more about Northwell's collaborative efforts to provide pro bono fibroid surgeries in Jamaica. This is episode two in a four-part series documenting Northwell's partnership with Jamaica's Ministry of Health to improve women's health on the island. Listen to Episode 1 and Episode 2, available in our feed now.  About Northwell Health Northwell Health is New York State's largest healthcare provider and private employer, with 21 hospitals, 850 outpatient facilities and more than 16,600 affiliated physicians. We're making breakthroughs in medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. We're training the next generation of medical professionals at the visionary Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Get the latest news and insights from our experts in the Northwell Newsroom: Press releases Insights Podcasts Publications Interested in a career at Northwell Health? Visit http://bit.ly/2Z7iHFL and explore our many opportunities. Get more expert insights from leading experts in the field — Northwell Newsroom.  Watch episodes of 20-Minute Health Talk on YouTube.  For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Interested in a career at Northwell Health? Visit http://bit.ly/2Z7iHFL and explore our many opportunities.    

Welcome to The Habit Within! Quick life update: school's out, and we're off to summer adventures, including a unique canoe trip for my son in Northern Ontario – a true "trust fall" for us parents!  We're also planning a move to South Austin after 13 years in our current home. Before we dive in, let me know your summer plans! Today's episode is all about what's fundamentally wrong with how we approach women's health.  I'm passionate about advocating for a new, more understanding perspective. Don't forget my free 21-day series, "Feel Your Best: Holistic Practices for Energy, Vitality, and Confidence in Perimenopause and Beyond," for women 35+.  Join us!  The feedback has been incredibly positive. Here are some key points we get wrong:Women aren't just smaller men. We metabolize medications differently, yet most drug trials are done on men.  Our cyclical nature is a feature, not a flaw. Women's health is more than just vaginas and breasts. OBGYNs are primarily surgeons, often lacking training in areas like sex hormones, adrenal, or thyroid function.  Hormones affect our entire body, including the brain. Outdated exams can be traumatic. The speculum exam is archaic and often performed without consent.  Trauma-informed care is essential.  Notably, obese women face significant barriers to exams due to bias.  You can even perform some self-exams! Labs are just snapshots. They provide data but don't tell the whole story, as hormones fluctuate constantly.  Trust your intuition and look for patterns, not just numbers. Pain isn't "all in your head." Unexplained chronic pain in women is often dismissed but can be linked to stored trauma.  Your body is giving you information. Don't ignore your intuition. The female brain is wired for interconnectivity, blending emotion and logic.  Trust your inner voice for clarity and vitality. There's a lack of midlife education. Hormonal shifts are a normal transition, not a "broken state."  We need to honor our body's wisdom, including our menstrual cycles. Please share this podcast if it resonated with you and leave a review!  I'd love to hear from you! If you're tired of feeling exhausted, irritable, moody, and just not like yourself, schedule a free 30-minute consultation so I can help you feel like YOU again Fill out this brief application to schedule a free 30-minute call. Love the show? Leave a 5-star review, and let me know what hit home for you. Find me on Instagram @camille_kinzler and leave me a DM!

OB/GYNs are entering the IVF space—but what role should they play?This debate is heating up in fertility medicine, and Dr. Stephanie Kuku, a former OB/GYN surgeon in the NHS and now Chief Knowledge Officer at Conceivable Life Sciences, offers her global, tech-forward perspectiveIn this episode, she talks through:What REIs and OB/GYNs really need from each otherWhere the line is on fertility care qualificationsWhat REI oversight could look like in different countriesHow new tech may expand REI roles (not replace them)How Conceivable is building collaborative care models (including their current 100-patient IRB study)The field is changing. How will REIs lead the way forward?

On this episode of The Cajun Knight Live we catch up on the conflict in India and Pakistan. We then take a drastic shift and discuss a biblical/toranic quote about potential jewish slavery. We discuss OBGYNs and modern birthing practices and how the older more traditional ways are becoming more prevalent in western society. RFK jr has decided to ban 35 foods, most of which will shock you! We finish by talking about the China and Russian alliance to build a new nuclear power plant... ON THE MOON!To join in the conversation next week, join us at patreon.com/CajunKnightBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cult-of-conspiracy--5700337/support.

Microplastics – tiny plastic particles found in water, food, soil, and even dust – are an emerging health concern. These particles, along with the chemical additives in plastics, can enter our bodies through inhalation and ingestion. Research now links microplastics not only to inflammation and hormone disruption but also to specific risks in women’s health. What can we do about this growing concern? How can we minimize the presence of microplastics in our bodies? We spoke to Jane Van Dis, MD, founding member of Physician and Scientist Network Addressing Plastics and Health and founder of OBGYNs for Sustainable Future, about where microplastics are showing up in the environment, the unique health risks they pose to women, common myths about plastics and health, and what practical steps we can take to reduce our exposure. Further reading:https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2025/05/what-are-the-health-impacts-of-plastic/https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2025/05/how-to-reduce-microplastic-exposure-and-protect-your-health/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month I am re-sharing this 2023 conversation with the founders of The Motherhood Center in NYC. With Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) being the #1 complication associated with birth in the US and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this remains a critical conversation.It's not just you. You're not crazy. You're not a bad mom. You're not alone. These are words and deep beliefs that resonate through and form the backbone of today's guests, Catherine Birndorf, MD, and Paige Bellenbaum, LMSW. Catherine and Paige are dedicated to changing the perinatal mental health terrain, and they do it through The Motherhood Center, a place of radical acceptance, nurturance, and individual and group support. On today's episode, we pull back the curtain on motherhood and redefine what is considered "normal" and "typical". With PMADs (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) being the #1 complication associated with birth and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this is a critical conversation. On today's episode, we unpack why it's so important that we talk more about these conditions, how to do your best to prevent PMADs, and what to do if you or someone you love has symptoms. Aviva, Paige, and Catherine discuss: The definition of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADS) and the different diagnoses that fall under the PMAD umbrella What PMAD taboos still exist today, why this needs to change, and how Roe v. Wade affects these taboos Paige and Catherine's personal stories with perinatal mood disorders and what brought them to the point of specializing in PMADS and opening the motherhood center The kinds of physical and psychological feelings and symptoms associated with PMADs and signs birthing people and their providers should watch out for Why we need to move in the direction of making it mandatory for OB-GYNs, midwives, pediatricians, and any providers who come in contact with newer expecting mothers to begin educating their patients about PMADS and screening for symptoms The effects of the pandemic, social isolation, and potential cultural contributors on PMADS The role of medication and psychotherapy in treating conditions For more information or to reach out visit themotherhoodcenter.com or call (212) 335-0034. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

  Today on The Kristan Hawkins Show we're unpacking:   - 13 Planned Parenthood Vendors Closed in 2025 – Illinois, Michigan, NYC, Utah, Vermont. Why are there so many closures? - Groundbreaking JAMA Study – Chemical Abortion Pill complication rate is 22× higher than FDA's, with 1 in 9 women at risk. - Surge of OB/GYNs in Pro-Life States – New JAMA analysis contradicts media panic. - Spotting Fake Dobbs Data – Don't be fooled by flawed reports on maternal outcomes and birth rates.  

The majority of people in the U.S. support abortion, yet access has been decimated around the country. That kind of disparity deserves evidence-based, practiced commentary, and we can think of no better doctors to share their experiences than Dr. Beverly Gray and Dr. Jonas Swartz, OBGYNs and co-hosts of the podcast Outlawed. They sit down to talk with us about being on the frontlines of abortion care in the U.S. at the moment and how their experience contributed to the desire to pursue their podcast. Both Dr. Gray and Dr. Swartz dispel myths on mic and in person, including that childbirth is safer than abortion (abortion is less risky than carrying a pregnancy to term), that fertility is impacted by abortion (it isn't), that abortions can be reversed (they can't), or that abortion can occur after birth (they can't). These myths can influence policy. In addition, Drs. Gray and Swartz interview incredible patients, providers, and advocates about their journeys in sexual and reproductive health. If you are interested in hearing information and stories from OBGYNs themselves, find Outlawed here.For more information check outThe Nocturnists: https://thenocturnists.org/Support the showFollow Us on Social: Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfbFacebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us: jennie@reprosfightback.comRate and Review on Apple PodcastThanks for listening & keep fighting back!

This podcast is brought to you by Outcomes Rocket, your exclusive healthcare marketing agency. Learn how to accelerate your growth by going to outcomesrocket.com Innovative solutions and heartfelt experiences are driving significant changes in mental health care. In this episode of the Expanding Access podcast, Tina Keshani, co-founder and CEO of Seven Starling, highlights the urgent need for addressing maternal mental health. 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, which are often underreported and untreated. Tina shares that Seven Starling's specialized care tailored specifically for women features specialized therapists, groups for shared experiences, and partnerships with OB/GYNs for seamless referrals. Tune in to explore how Seven Starling's personal experiences and innovative technology are shaping the future of maternal mental healthcare! Resources: Connect with and follow Tina Keshani on LinkedIn. Follow Seven Starling on LinkedIn and explore their website.   Visit Behavioral Health Tech on LinkedIn and explore their website.  Fast Track Your Business Growth:Outcomes Rocket is a full-service marketing agency focused on helping healthcare organizations like yours maximize your impact and accelerate growth. Learn more at outcomesrocket.com

I love my home state of TEXAS. I am definitely full of Texas pride. We have Texas barbecue, Texas, hospitality, and of course, the Texas music scene! Our state definitely has some issues to improve on, mainly access to maternity care. We have a HUGE state and 50% of our counties are maternity care deserts. It's a vast vast Land to cover! Texas has also received a lot of criticism regarding its heartbeat law originally named SB8, which was passed in 2021. Commentaries since then have stated that OBGYNs are leaving the state by the droves! Is that accurate? A new publication from JAMA network open (April 21, 2025) seems to contradict these commentaries. Listen in for detail details.

You're going to be inspired by this episode of The Mile High Podcast featuring a very special guest Dr. Courtney Gowin.   Dr. Courtney is the founder of Free to Be Chiropractic, The Nest Wellness Village, and WanderLearn Retreats. She has dedicated her career to supporting mothers through every stage of life with vitalistic chiropractic care.   A former Division I basketball player, Dr. Courtney was led to chiropractic after a major injury. She originally planned a sports-focused career—until mentorship opened her eyes to prenatal and pediatric care. Now she leads one of the most impactful maternal wellness movements in chiropractic.   She's also launched WanderLearn, a global retreat platform providing CE credits in breathtaking locations like Egypt, Japan, and Switzerland—bringing healing and adventure to chiropractors worldwide.   Dr. Courtney is also completing one of the most comprehensive books on natural pregnancy and birth, inspired by global healing traditions and modern clinical insights.  

Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, aka Dr. A, joins Real Pod for an absolute masterclass in women's health! You may have seen her on Keeping Up with the Kardashians (yes, she delivered Khloe's baby!), but today she's here to drop life-changing knowledge on fertility, PCOS, endometriosis, and what you need to be asking your OBGYN. Dr. A shares her incredible journey from growing up in Iran during the revolution to becoming one of the most sought-after OBGYNs in Los Angeles. She opens up about how her past fueled her passion for advocating for women's health, why so many conditions go undiagnosed, and the exact tests and questions every woman should be bringing to her doctor. From understanding your egg count to debunking birth control myths and tackling the link between PCOS and eating disorders, this episode is packed with crucial info that could change the way you approach your health. Get ready to take notes - Dr. A is giving us the ultimate roadmap to self-advocacy, and you do not want to miss it!SHE MD PodcastBreast Cancer Risk CalculatorOvii PCOS QuizVic's Appearance on SHE MDReal Pod InstagramWatch Real Pod on YouTube// SPONSORS // Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. Just Thrive: Visit justthrivehealth.com and use code REALPOD for 20% off your first 90 day bottle. That's like getting a month for free! LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that's 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.The Knot: Let The Knot be your partner in all things wedding planning. Get started at theknot.com/audio. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dream fans....WE ARE BACK!Season four's gonna be a little different though. We're reimagining The Dream as a weekly interview podcast with guests and segments about, I don't know.... whatever we want? Don't worry! We'll still be focused on the "American Dream" and all the assholes that make it infinitely harder to achieve. We'll just have a bit more freedom in how we present it.Also, today we're bringing you an episode of a podcast I've been producing about abortion, called "Outlawed":Join two OB-Gyns as they explain the science and stories of abortion in the US. Misinformation is unfortunately everywhere. Listening to this podcast will give you the knowledge and tools you need to help navigate these difficult conversations with family and friends at the dining room table. Throughout the season we will interview physicians, researchers, advocates and experts, as we navigate this contentious topic and make sense of the reality of abortion care in the US.And DO NOT forget to check back in a few weeks for new episodes of The Dream! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.