Podcasts about Progesterone

If you've been on social media lately, you've probably seen it: women swearing that a combo of Pepcid and Claritin, ordinary histamine blockers, gave them their life back during the worst days of their cycle. It sounds too simple to be real, and honestly, it kind of is. But the reason it's working for some women and doing absolutely nothing for others is the whole story, and it's a story almost nobody is explaining correctly. In this episode, I sit down with one of my all time favorite guests, Dr. Liz Bartman, to go deep into progesterone sensitivity, PMDD, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and how it's different from garden variety PMS. If you've ever felt like a completely different person for two weeks out of every month, only to feel like yourself again the second your period starts, this episode is going to make you feel seen in a way most conversations about "hormones" never do. We get into what's actually driving PMDD for so many women: an altered GABA receptor that stops responding correctly to a calming metabolite of progesterone called allopregnanolone. We talk about why histamine surges at exactly the wrong time in your cycle, how estrogen and progesterone are pulling the strings behind the scenes, and why some women feel like magic when they take progesterone while others feel like they've been poisoned by it. This is the foundational science you need before you try any protocol, viral or otherwise. This is part one of a two part series. Part two gets into what to actually do about it, but you need this piece first, because throwing supplements or medications at PMDD without understanding your own biology is how so many women end up frustrated and back at square one. In This Episode, We Cover: The real difference between PMS and PMDD, and why PMDD is classified as a mental health condition, not just a hormone imbalance Why normal estrogen and progesterone levels don't rule out PMDD, and what's actually going on in the brain instead What allopregnanolone is, how it works on GABA receptors, and why some women's brains stop responding to it correctly The viral H1/H2 histamine blocker protocol: what it is, why it can bring real relief, and why it isn't a PMDD cure-all The surprising role histamine plays as a neurotransmitter, including its connection to your morning cortisol response Why PMDD symptoms show up specifically in the second half of your cycle, and how estrogen, progesterone, and mast cells are all involved Why roughly half of women with diagnosed PMDD don't tolerate progesterone well, and what that tells us about the root cause How your gut microbiome, specific probiotic strains, and your nervous system state all influence GABA receptor expression and histamine regulation Why declining egg quality and corpus luteum function can cause progesterone to drop too fast in the luteal phase Who This Episode Is For This is for any woman who has ever felt like her brain and body get hijacked in the days before her period, and who has been told it's "just PMS" or that she's overreacting. It's for women who have tried progesterone and either felt amazing or felt so much worse, and never got a real explanation why. It's also for anyone who has seen the histamine blocker trend online and wants to understand the actual mechanism before trying it themselves.     Sponsors Join the Midlife Women's Peptide Program today and get started for less than $200 a month! Head to cozyearth.com and use my code HORMONES for 20% off sitewide! And if you get a Post-Purchase Survey, make sure to let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here! Try the power of copper peptides on your skin today and get 20% off your order with coupon code km20 here.     Are you in perimenopause or postmenopause and struggling with symptoms—but not getting the support you deserve? At Midlife Solutions, we specialize in hormone optimization for women in midlife. Our all-female clinical team offers telehealth care across all 50 U.S. states, with the ability to prescribe bioidentical estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid medication.   Book your FREE Hormone Discovery Call Find out what's really driving your symptoms and what your next best steps are.   Visit the website: https://karenmartel.com   Shop the Midlife Solutions Store Over-the-counter bioidentical hormone creams and oils — no prescription needed. Including: • Progesterone • Estrogen Face Cream • Vaginal Moisturizer and more!   Take the Hormone Quiz Discover hidden hormone imbalances that could be driving your symptoms. Get personalized results (and yes, they may surprise you).   Women's Peptide Weight Loss Program Clinically guided, hormone-aware weight loss for midlife women.   Midlife RESET HRT Program A complete, supportive approach to hormone replacement therapy in midlife.   Your host: Karen Martel Certified Hormone Specialist, Transformational Nutrition Coach, & Weight Loss Expert   Karen's Facebook Karen's Instagram

If you are a woman 40-plus wondering:✔️ Why can't I sleep anymore?✔️ Why do I feel anxious or overwhelmed for no obvious reason?✔️ Could my hormones really be causing all this trouble?

You're not broken. Your light environment is. If you're waking up at 3 AM and staring at the ceiling for hours, struggling with menopause insomnia, or feeling exhausted despite getting "enough" sleep, this episode reveals the missing piece almost nobody is talking about. Dr. Anna sits down with Dr. Catherine Clinton—licensed naturopathic physician, educator, author of Optimize, and Founder of the Quantum Biology Health Institute—to explore the emerging science of quantum biology and how light, circadian rhythms, mitochondria, and your environment influence sleep, hormones, metabolism, and healthy aging. After overcoming Lyme disease and two autoimmune conditions, Dr. Clinton has spent nearly two decades helping people restore health by working with their biology instead of fighting it. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why progesterone declines by up to 75% between ages 35 and 50, and why that makes sleep so much harder The surprising reason so many women wake up between 2–4 AM Why checking your phone first thing in the morning spikes cortisol and sabotages your sleep that night How just 5 minutes of natural morning sunlight can reset your circadian rhythm, improve mood, support hormone balance, and boost metabolism The simple evening routine—including lighting, temperature, magnesium, tart cherry, and more—that prepares your brain for deep, restorative sleep Why your skin responds to light too, and what that means for your bedroom environment Before you reach for another supplement, peptide, or sleep aid, learn why optimizing your light environment may be the foundation your body has been missing all along. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Dr. Anna and Dr. Catherine dive into fascia, vagus nerve health, trauma, and the body's remarkable ability to heal. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with the woman in your life who's also awake at 3 AM wondering why she can't sleep.     Key Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome and why sleep is the #1 complaint in Dr. Anna's community 02:30 — What is quantum biology, and why modern medicine is just catching up to it 05:00 — Progesterone's 75% decline from 35–50 and its direct link to anxiety and insomnia 08:30 — The science of waking at 2–4am and why it's so common in perimenopause 11:00 — Morning light exposure: why grabbing your phone first thing spikes cortisol 15:00 — The 7-day sunrise challenge and what happened when Dr. Anna's community tried it 20:00 — Making light exposure realistic (you don't need bare feet on grass every day) 27:00 — Evening light: salt lamps, blue light blockers, and the "campfire effect" on melatonin 30:00 — The evening supplement stack: tart cherry, magnesium L-threonate with glycinate 33:00 — Bedroom environment: temperature, blackout curtains, EMFs, and lux thresholds 38:00 — Does light on skin (not just eyes) disrupt sleep, even with an eye mask on? 42:00 — Closing thoughts and what's coming in Part 2 (fascia, vagus nerve, trauma)   Memorable Quotes "You're not broken. Your light environment is." "A good night's sleep starts with a good morning routine." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "LED light is like processed food. Natural sunlight is whole nutrition for your cells." — Dr. Catherine Clinton "You can't out-supplement an unhealthy lifestyle or toxic environment." — Dr. Catherine Clinton "There's only so many lasers, supplements, hormones, and peptides we can take. We have to get the foundations right." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Healing happens when we work with our biology—not against it." — Dr. Catherine Clinton     Resources Mentioned:

Your bloodwork can come back “normal” while cortisol, nutrient deficiencies, gut dysfunction and hidden immune triggers continue driving exhaustion, weight-loss resistance and hormonal decline. Dr. Stephen Cabral joins Dr. Josh Axe to explain why treating an isolated diagnosis may fail when the real problem is an interconnected biological pattern that standard testing never uncovered. Uncover what's really going on in your body with advanced biomarker testing for hormones, thyroid, and metabolism— plus a 1-hour consultation with a Senior Health Advisor! →  http://mybloodwork.com Thank you to our sponsors! Sunlighten Sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/axepodcast Manukora Manuka Honey: https://manukora.com/axe Caraway Home: carawayhome.com/drjoshaxe (Use code DRJOSHAXE) for an exclusive discount Watch The Dr. Josh Axe Show every Monday & Thursday on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjoshaxe?sub_confirmation=1

Hormone optimization goes beyond testosterone and estrogen. In this episode of the Optimization Academy Podcast, Dr. Greg Jones talks with Ashley Madsen, PA-C, about why symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, low libido, weight changes, poor recovery, and perimenopause concerns often need a deeper, more personalized approach.They discuss why testosterone levels are dropping in younger men, why many women's hormone symptoms are dismissed or misunderstood, and how stress, sleep, toxins, lifestyle, body composition, and metabolic health can affect hormone balance. Ashley also breaks down common misconceptions around testosterone therapy, estrogen, progesterone, peptide therapy, genomics, and longevity medicine.If you've been searching for answers around low testosterone, perimenopause, fatigue, brain fog, weight resistance, hormone therapy, or recovery, this episode offers a practical look at what may actually be driving those changes, and why symptoms, labs, lifestyle, and personalized care all matter.

You're not broken. Your light environment is. If you're waking up at 3 AM and staring at the ceiling for hours, struggling with menopause insomnia, or feeling exhausted despite getting "enough" sleep, this episode reveals the missing piece almost nobody is talking about. Dr. Anna sits down with Dr. Catherine Clinton—licensed naturopathic physician, educator, author of Optimize, and Founder of the Quantum Biology Health Institute—to explore the emerging science of quantum biology and how light, circadian rhythms, mitochondria, and your environment influence sleep, hormones, metabolism, and healthy aging. After overcoming Lyme disease and two autoimmune conditions, Dr. Clinton has spent nearly two decades helping people restore health by working with their biology instead of fighting it. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why progesterone declines by up to 75% between ages 35 and 50, and why that makes sleep so much harder The surprising reason so many women wake up between 2–4 AM Why checking your phone first thing in the morning spikes cortisol and sabotages your sleep that night How just 5 minutes of natural morning sunlight can reset your circadian rhythm, improve mood, support hormone balance, and boost metabolism The simple evening routine—including lighting, temperature, magnesium, tart cherry, and more—that prepares your brain for deep, restorative sleep Why your skin responds to light too, and what that means for your bedroom environment Before you reach for another supplement, peptide, or sleep aid, learn why optimizing your light environment may be the foundation your body has been missing all along. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Dr. Anna and Dr. Catherine dive into fascia, vagus nerve health, trauma, and the body's remarkable ability to heal. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with the woman in your life who's also awake at 3 AM wondering why she can't sleep.     Key Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome and why sleep is the #1 complaint in Dr. Anna's community 02:30 — What is quantum biology, and why modern medicine is just catching up to it 05:00 — Progesterone's 75% decline from 35–50 and its direct link to anxiety and insomnia 08:30 — The science of waking at 2–4am and why it's so common in perimenopause 11:00 — Morning light exposure: why grabbing your phone first thing spikes cortisol 15:00 — The 7-day sunrise challenge and what happened when Dr. Anna's community tried it 20:00 — Making light exposure realistic (you don't need bare feet on grass every day) 27:00 — Evening light: salt lamps, blue light blockers, and the "campfire effect" on melatonin 30:00 — The evening supplement stack: tart cherry, magnesium L-threonate with glycinate 33:00 — Bedroom environment: temperature, blackout curtains, EMFs, and lux thresholds 38:00 — Does light on skin (not just eyes) disrupt sleep, even with an eye mask on? 42:00 — Closing thoughts and what's coming in Part 2 (fascia, vagus nerve, trauma)   Memorable Quotes "You're not broken. Your light environment is." "A good night's sleep starts with a good morning routine." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "LED light is like processed food. Natural sunlight is whole nutrition for your cells." — Dr. Catherine Clinton "You can't out-supplement an unhealthy lifestyle or toxic environment." — Dr. Catherine Clinton "There's only so many lasers, supplements, hormones, and peptides we can take. We have to get the foundations right." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Healing happens when we work with our biology—not against it." — Dr. Catherine Clinton     Resources Mentioned:

In this episode, we are diving into the importance of my two favorite hormones: Estrogen and Progesterone.  I go over the role each of these hormones place in the female body, what it can look (and feel) like when there is an imbalance, and what we can do to fix it! Ready to get answers? Schedule a free discovery call with one of my team members to get personalized next steps:

If you've ever been told you have anxiety or depression without anyone checking your hormones first... this episode is for you. In this episode of Boss Bitch Radio, I dive into a conversation that I believe every woman needs to hear. Too many women are walking out of doctor's offices with prescriptions for antidepressants without ever getting a full hormone panel. While medication absolutely has its place, I'm asking a different question: What if your hormones are part of the real story? We're talking about how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone affect your mood, sleep, energy, motivation, brain fog, and anxiety - especially during perimenopause and menopause. I also share my own experience with hormone changes, why I believe so many women are being misdiagnosed, and the lifestyle habits that can help support your hormones before we even get into treatment options. This episode isn't about fear or blaming doctors. It's about becoming your own advocate, asking better questions, and making sure you're getting the full picture before accepting that feeling anxious, exhausted, or emotionally flat is "just part of getting older." #Hormones #Perimenopause #Menopause #MentalHealth   Key Takeaways: 01:41 The 3 Hormones That Control Your Mood 02:46 Why Estrogen Affects Your Happiness 03:58 Progesterone, Anxiety & Better Sleep 05:26 Low Testosterone = Low Motivation? 08:50 Why So Many Women Get Misdiagnosed 10:26 The Stats That Will Shock You 12:26 Why Blood Work Should Come First 13:39 Simple Habits That Actually Help 19:10 When Healthy Habits Aren't Enough 20:39 Getting Real Answers with Hormone Testing 22:39 What I Hope You Take Away From This Episode Links mentioned: Ready to feel like yourself again? Visit Ivologist and use code DIANE50 for 50% off! https://ivologist.com/   Sources & References Menopause & Depression Risk (SWAN Study): Research shows women are 2–4 times more likely to experience a major depressive episode during the menopause transition. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21306662/ https://www.swanstudy.org/womens-health-info/depression-menopause/ Antidepressants vs. Hormone Therapy: Approximately 1 in 3 women in perimenopause are prescribed antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications for mood symptoms, though current guidelines recommend considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when appropriate. https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/letters/assessing-the-suitability-of-antidepressant-use-during-perimenopause CDC (2023): Women are more than twice as likely as men to take antidepressants (15.3% vs. 7.4%) https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db528.htm How Estrogen Affects Mood: Estrogen plays a key role in regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. Fluctuations in estradiol levels during perimenopause and menopause can significantly influence mood https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7075107/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378512224001828 2025 Research on HRT: A recent study suggests that hormone replacement therapy - particularly when combined with testosterone - may reduce the need for antidepressants in menopausal women https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article/22/Supplement_1/qdaf068.081/8119509 Want more? Join the newsletter! Behind the scenes of the pivot, brand partnerships, real life in progress, and the things I'd only tell you in a DM: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/newsletter   Connect with Diane: Website: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/  Come find me on Instagram and reply to my Stories. I actually read everything and your opinion literally shapes the brand work I do:  https://www.instagram.com/thebossbitchdiane/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianeflores_ifbb_pro  Are you a brand looking to work with me? I create content for brands I actually use and love. With 19 years of marketing and sales experience and an audience of women over 40 who are done being ignored by the brands that should be speaking to them. View my portfolio and let's talk: https://buffbunny.my.canva.site/diane-flores-ugc-portfolio  Freebies: Fit Girl Gift Guide: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/fit-girl-gift-guide  My Favorite Supplements: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/myfavoritesupplements  Protein Snack List: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/protein-snack-guide  Lower Body Blueprint: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/lower-body-blueprint  Full Body Training Program: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/full-body-gym-program 

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

Between turning 40 and navigating life with a baby, a toddler and two more kids, there is a lot going on in our world right now and we are not holding back! In this candid quarter check-in, Dr. Elana and Steph pull back the curtain on what life actually looks like right now. Steph opens up about turning 40, rebranding an entire decade and the health appointments and mindset shifts she is building into her 40s. Dr. Elana gets honest about the weight of four kids, postpartum fatigue and the three tools she reaches for every time she starts to feel off. If you have ever loved your life and still found yourself running on empty inside it, this one is for you. Topics Covered In This Episode: Steph Turning 40 and Rebranding a Decade Health Appointments Steph Schedules Every Birthday Midyear Goal Check-In and Reflection Practices Backyard Chickens and Disconnecting From Screens Books, Boundaries and Nervous System Shifts in Your 30s and 40s Progesterone, Prioritization and Not Living 100% Granola Dr. Elana Gets Real About Life With Four Kids Postpartum Emotions, the Vasectomy Decision and Marriage Planning a Women's Retreat and What Rest Actually Looks Like Three Things Dr. Elana Does When She Is in a Slump Show Notes: Click here to learn more about Dr. Elana Roumell's Doctor Mom Membership, a membership designed for moms who want to be their child's number one health advocate! Click here to explore Steph Greunke, RD's Mindset and Metabolism Substack, nuanced discussions on fat loss and behavior change for women. Watch this episode on our Youtube channel @medschoolformoms Listen to today's episode on our website This Episode's Sponsors  Discover for yourself why Needed is trusted by 15,000+ women's health practitioners, including Dr. Elana and Steph. Needed supports optimal health and nourishment throughout the Motherspan--from preconception through perimenopause. Enjoy their range of practitioner-formulated, third-party tested supplements and get 20% off with code DOCTORMOM. Visit thisisneeded.com Active Skin Repair is a must-have for everyone to keep themselves and their families healthy and clean.  Keep a bottle in the car to spray your face after removing your mask, a bottle in your medicine cabinet to replace your toxic first aid products, and one in your outdoor pack for whatever life throws at you.  Use code DOCTORMOM to receive 20% off your order + free shipping (with $50 minimum purchase). Visit BLDGActive.com to order. INTRODUCE YOURSELF to Steph and Dr. Elana on Instagram. They can't wait to meet you! @stephgreunke @drelanaroumell Please remember that the views and ideas presented on this podcast are for informational purposes only.  All information presented on this podcast is for informational purposes and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a healthcare provider. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any diet, supplement regimen, or to determine the appropriateness of the information shared on this podcast, or if you have any questions regarding your treatment plan.

Welcome to this week's Midlife Minute. In this episode, we're focusing on progesterone, exploring the differences between progesterone and progestins, how progesterone is used in clinical practice, and how individual responses can vary significantly. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins are not interchangeable How early synthetic progestin studies continue to shape how progesterone is viewed How different routes of progesterone administration produce different effects  Why do some women experience stronger neurological or physical effects than others on the same progesterone dose How cyclical versus continuous use can affect how progesterone is used in the body  Why some women experience sleep or mood changes on oral progesterone The importance of personalized decision-making Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Resources:  The pharmacodynamics and safety of progesterone doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2020.06.002 Profiles of plasma estrogens, progesterone and their metabolites after oral or vaginal administration of estradiol or progesterone doi:10.1016/0378-5122(93)90064-O Pharmacokinetics of progesterone and its metabolites allopregnanolone and pregnanolone after oral administration of low-dose progesterone doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2005.11.005 Allopregnanolone and mood in the peripartum: a longitudinal assessment in healthy women doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104465 Behavior of Male Gamete Fusogen GCS1/HAP2 and the Regulation in Arabidopsis Double Fertilization doi:10.3390/biom13020208 Tolerance to allopregnanolone with focus on the GABA receptor doi:10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01059.x Effects of exercise training on the cardiovascular system: pharmacological approaches doi:10.1016/j.pharmthera.2007.03.010 Sex steroid induced negative mood may be explained by the paradoxical effect mediated by GABA modulators doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2009.02.003 Paradoxical effects of GABA modulators may explain sex steroid induced negative mood symptoms in some persons doi:10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.03.061 Progesterone selectively increases amygdala reactivity in women doi:10.1038/sj.mp.4002030 Progesterone and allopregnanolone neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system doi:10.1016/S0006-8993(02)02366-5 Allopregnanolone and mood disorders doi:10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.07.005 GABA receptor plasticity and neurosteroid cell withdrawal during the estrous cycle doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2800-09.2009 Unequal risks for breast cancer associated with different hormone replacement therapies: results from the E3N cohort study doi:10.1007/s10549-007-9523-x Management of Menopausal Symptoms: A Review doi:10.1001/jama.2022.24140 Progesterone vs. synthetic progestins and the risk of breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis doi:10.1080/13697137.2018.1467611 Progesterone prevents sleep disturbances and modulates GH, TSH, and melatonin secretion in postmenopausal women doi:10.1210/jc.2010-2558

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is far more than simply taking estrogen or progesterone. In this first episode of a new 36-part series, Dr. Brendan McCarthy explains why hormone therapy should never be viewed as a one-size-fits-all treatment. From puberty through menopause, he explores how hormones change throughout a woman's life, why lab testing matters, and how personalized care leads to better outcomes. You'll learn the differences between estradiol, estrone, estriol, progesterone vs. progestins, testosterone therapy, delivery methods, and why true informed consent is essential when making decisions about your health. In this episode: ✔️ Why "HRT" is an oversimplified term ✔️ The different types of estrogen and why they matter ✔️ Progesterone vs. synthetic progestins ✔️ Testosterone therapy for women explained ✔️ Why hormone testing and lab work are critical ✔️ Oral vs. topical vs. injectable vs. pellet hormone therapy ✔️ How inflammation, stress, sleep, nutrition, and metabolism affect hormones ✔️ Why hormone health starts long before menopause ✔️ What informed consent should actually look like in medicine This episode lays the foundation for the next 36 episodes, where Dr. McCarthy breaks down hormone therapy into practical, easy-to-understand lessons so you can become a more informed advocate for your own health.  

Send us Fan MailMost people think of the menstrual cycle as bleeding, cramps, cycle day one, or an app prediction. But the period is really the final report — not the main event.In this episode of Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday, Dr. Mark Amols explains the menstrual cycle from the ovary's point of view. Learn how the brain, ovary, and uterus communicate each month, why one follicle becomes dominant, why IVF does not “use up” future eggs, and why so many common menstrual-cycle myths fall apart once you understand the science.We cover myths like whether ovaries take turns, whether one ovary means ovulating every other month, whether bleeding always means ovulation, whether cycle apps really know when you ovulate, and whether everyone needs to wait three months after a miscarriage before trying again.The menstrual cycle is not a calendar, an app prediction, or a right-left ovary schedule. It is a hormone conversation between the brain, ovary, and uterus.Thanks for tuning in to another episode of 'Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday' with Dr. Mark Amols. If you found this episode insightful, please share it with friends and family who might benefit from our discussion. Remember, your feedback is invaluable to us – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred listening platform.Stay connected with us for updates and fertility tips – follow us on Facebook. For more resources and information, visit our website at www.NewDirectionFertility.com.Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at TBFT@NewDirectionFertility.com.Join us next Tuesday for more discussions on fertility, where we blend medical expertise with a touch of humor to make complex topics accessible and engaging. Until then, keep the conversation going and remember: understanding your fertility is a journey we're on together.

When most people think about hormone balance, they think about estrogen. But according to pharmacist and hormone expert Carol Petersen, progesterone may be the hormone women need most—and the one most often overlooked. In this episode, Dr. Jen sits down with Carol to discuss the critical role progesterone plays in perimenopause, menopause, PMS, heavy menstrual bleeding, fertility, sleep, mood, and nervous system health. They explore why progesterone deficiency often begins long before menopause, how chronic stress impacts hormone production, and why many women are being undertreated or improperly balanced with hormone therapy. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on bioidentical hormones and what true hormone balance really looks like.Carol Petersen, RPh, CNP, is a compounding pharmacist, certified nutritional practitioner, and founder of The Wellness by Design Project. With more than three decades of experience specializing in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, Carol has become a respected voice in women's health and personalized medicine. Through education, coaching, writing, and clinical consultation, she helps women better understand hormone balance, navigate perimenopause and menopause, and make informed decisions about their health.This Episode is brought to you by Zeolite:Zeocharge is a "smart binder" made from supercharged zeolite powder, designed to help naturally remove unwanted toxins—like heavy metals and microtoxins—without stripping away the essential nutrients you need to thrive.Support your overworked system and find an exclusive discount for our listeners at: zeolitelabs.com/zeolitediscountWebsite: https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolpetersen17 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WellnessCarol Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Ai0M1ZIgucAOjCdSypvVv YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewellnessbydesignproject  PODCAST: Thank you for listening please subscribe and share! Shop supplements: https://healthybydrjen.shop/CHECK OUT a list of my Favorite products here: https://www.healthybydrjen.com/drjenfavoritesFOLLOW ME:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integrativedrmom/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/integrativedrmomYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@integrativedrmomFTC: Some links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of them, I will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you).  I truly appreciate your support of my channel. Thank you for watching! Video is not sponsored.DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not contain any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment advice. Content provided on this podcast is for informational purposes only.  For any medical or health related advice, please consult with a physician or other healthcare professionals. Further, information about specific products or treatments within this podcast are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr. Felice Gersh joins host Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton and DUTCH founder Mark Newman for a deep-dive on progesterone: its physiological roles, concerns around standard-of-care prescribing practices, and more. Their conversation also explores: Progesterone's role as more than an endometrial protectant Supraphysiologic allopregnanolone created by oral micronized progesterone The physiological benefits of cyclic dosing versus continuous dosing How the gut microbiome impacts progesterone metabolism The need for more research on oral micronized progesterone and dosing methods Show NotesLearn more about Dr. Gersh's practice Integrative Medical Group of Irvine and check out her books! Read Dr. Smeaton's article on oral micronized progesterone in menopause. Become a DUTCH Provider to get access to comprehensive patient reports, peer-reviewed and validated research, and expert clinical support. 

In this episode we engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jerilynn Prior, a trailblazing endocrinologist and professor at the University of British Columbia. Dr. Prior shares her 40+ years of research on the importance of progesterone in women's reproductive health, the reality of hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause, and how understanding ovulatory disturbances can promote lifelong well-being.This episode is a must-listen for women seeking to optimize their fertility, manage perimenopausal symptoms, and gain deeper insights into their menstrual health.Key takeaways:The importance of balancing estrogen with progesterone for reproductive and overall health.Ovulatory disturbances are common and adaptive but need attention when persistent.Perimenopausal symptoms are often linked to fluctuating estrogen levels and insufficient progesterone.Regular ovulation predicts better bone, heart, and lifelong health.Progesterone therapy effectively reduces menopausal symptoms like night sweats and sleep disturbances.Dr. Jerilynn Prior Bio: Jerilynn C. Prior is a Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC, working on women's health. She has spent her career studying menstrual cycles and the effects of the cycle's changing estrogen and progesterone hormone levels on women's health. In 2002, she founded the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR) and serves as the Centre's Scientific Director. She is also the British Columbia Centre Director of the Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos), a 20-year prospective 9-centre population-based bone and general health study. Dr. Prior studies menstrual cycles, the effects of ovulation and its disturbances on women's later life osteoporotic fracture, heart attack and breast cancer risks. She has studied progesterone as a treatment for hypothalamic (stress related) period disturbances, low bone density, and for hot flushes and night sweats in menopausal women (1 year since their last flow) and in perimenopausal women (who are in the transition but not yet menopausal).Where To Find Dr. Jerilynn Prior: CEMCOR - Center for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research - https://cemcor.ubc.ca/Books: Estrogen's Storm Season - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B078JSRFKRRESEARCHS:Menstrual cycle, follicular and luteal phase variabilitiesHere's a paper we just published in Human Reproduction—showing that it is nonsense to believe the luteal phase is fixed at 14 days. Henry, Sarah https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deae215Menstrual cramps and ovulationBecause menstrual cramps are said to only occur in ovulatory cycles, we analyzed cramps in both groups—women with anovulation had more intense cramps that lasted longer! https://doi:10.2147/JPR.S457484.Very important when discussing perimenopauseWe showed significantly decreased night sweats and improved sleep, no change in periods and a significant decrease in perimenopausal interference with daily life.Here's the open access link https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-35826-wMore progress toward a new therapy for PCOS—we completed a feasibility study of cyclic progesterone (14 days/cycle) and spironolactone (an anti-androgen)—our primary outcome was a five part PCOS-specific quality of life instrument. This confirms my hypotheses in this blog post some years ago https://helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/the-case-for-a-new-pcos-therapyEndometriosis and Brown Adipose Tissue—need assistance recruitingWe're currently recruiting for women with endometriosis ages 19-35 who are not using hormones and are without chronic pain https://www.cemcor.ca/endometriosis-and-brown-adipose-tissue-bat-activity-studyWe're studying Brown Adipose Tissue activity in women with endometriosis and normally ovulatory controls.

Perimenopause is not a slow fade. It is a hormonal storm that lasts about a decade. Estrogen swings, progesterone slips first, testosterone quietly declines, and growth hormone falls alongside all of it. That is why the workout that worked at 25 stops working at 45. It is why women come to me saying "I am doing everything right and the scale will not budge." Your biology is changing, and your approach has to change with it. In this episode I'm giving you my top recommendations for every pillar so you walk away with a real protocol, not a pile of overwhelm. We cover the exact biomarker labs to ask for, the truth about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) now that the black box warning is finally off, the protein and blood sugar shifts your body actually needs in this decade, the strength training and lifestyle biohacks that move the needle, the top supplements that matter, and the foundational and advanced peptide and bioregulator stacks I recommend most often. If you'd like to work with me, you can book a free call here. Timestamps: 02:14 - Housekeeping: one-on-one consults are now open 06:09 - What we are covering today (full roadmap) 08:03 - What perimenopause actually is, average ages, the genetic component 13:18 - Progesterone, the first hormone to fall 17:11 - Estrogen, the master regulator that swings 21:05 - Testosterone, the quiet decline that drives libido and motivation 22:33 - DHEA, cortisol, thyroid, insulin, and FSH 31:36 - The exact labs to ask for (and where to get them) 39:38 - HRT, the 2002 study, bioidenticals, and why timing matters 43:38 - Pillar 1: Nutrition (protein, blood sugar, fiber, alcohol) 53:48 - Pillar 2: Lifestyle and biohacks (strength training, sunlight, nervous system, sauna) 01:05:30 - Pillar 3: Supplements (top 5 + herbs) 01:13:03 - Pillar 4: Peptides foundational stack (BPC-157, Epitalon, Selank) 01:23:47 - Advanced peptide layer (CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin, MOTS-c, PT-141, DSIP, Kisspeptin) 01:35:44 - Fringe biohacks (Dutch test, genetic testing, red light, PEMF, CGMs)   Resources: My trusted Peptide Source Guide. Work with me one-on-one. The Her Stack Planner (digital or prints at home). Join The LongHer Life  ongevity community Products mentioned: BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough code BIOHACKINGBRITTANY HigherDOSE (red light face mask, hair hat, full body panel, PEMF mat) code BRITTANY15 Kineon red light laser, code BIOHACKINGBRITTANY Fatty15 C15 essential fatty acid, code: BIOHACKINGBRITTANY Naked Nutrition creatine monohydrate, DM for discount Labs I recommend: Function Health (US) Hundred Health (US, ~100 biomarkers). SiPhox Health (US + Canada at-home blood), code BRITTANY20 NIA Health and Felix Health (Canada). Dutch Test (dried urine, ships worldwide). Let's connect: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook Shop my favorite health products Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music This is for educational purposes only. This is not medical advise.

There is an undeniable buzz around testosterone for women right now. While many patients report feeling more energized, happier, and clearer of mind after adding it to their hormone therapy regimen, clinical questions and nuances still remain. In this episode, Dr. Rachel Pope sits down with world-renowned urologist Dr. Mohit Khera, Professor and Director of the Laboratory for Andrology Research at the Baylor College of Medicine, to demystify testosterone's role in midlife optimization, the safety data behind it, and why sexual health is the ultimate check-engine light for your overall well-being.Key Takeaways: The Hormonal Triangle (Triple Therapy): Modern midlife medicine must evolve past dual hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone). True optimization requires Triple Therapy—adding systemic testosterone to balance the triangle—alongside localized vaginal estrogen therapy for complete quality of life restoration. Women naturally produce nearly five times more testosterone than estradiol. When testosterone declines, replacing it can significantly augment bone mineral density, lean muscle mass, cognitive focus (brain fog), mood stability, and all four domains of sexual function (desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain mitigation). The Clinical Safety Reality: Historical fears that testosterone causes breast cancer or cardiovascular events are not backed by data. Large-scale charts and transgender health studies (using ten times the standard female dose) demonstrate excellent safety profiles. In fact, emerging data suggests testosterone may even help decrease breast cancer risk. The "Sex Factor" & Overall Health: Sexual health is a bidirectional barometer for physical and mental health. Rather than just a recreational activity, sexual function acts as a "check engine light." Dysfunction is often an early clinical indicator of undiagnosed depression, diabetes, or future cardiovascular events. The 50/50 Rule: Hormones are not a standalone holy grail; they are synergistic with lifestyle modification. Clinical optimization requires medical therapy (50%) to meet lifestyle modifications (50%) halfway through intentional diet, exercise, sleep, and chronic stress reduction.Upcoming Frontiers in Healthcare:The landscape of hormone therapy regulation is rapidly shifting. Dr. Khera shares recent monumental policy wins, including the FDA's removal of major historical warnings on local estrogens and male testosterone labels. For women, clinical discussions are currently underway with the FDA to bring regulatory approval for female-specific testosterone gels and oral formats to the US market within the next two to three years.

Progesterone is one of the most important hormones for fertility, healthy ovulation, and sustaining early pregnancy, yet so many women are never taught how it actually works.In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Morgan sit down with fertility nutritionist Sophia Pavia to break down the truth about low progesterone, luteal phase defects, ovulation quality, and why so many women today are struggling with hormone imbalances, infertility, and pregnancy loss.We unpack how progesterone is made, why ovulation is essential for healthy hormone balance, what “unopposed estrogen” really means, and the signs your luteal phase may need support. Sophia also explains why conventional medicine can be hesitant about progesterone supplementation, when it may be appropriate, and how nutrition, stress, blood sugar balance, and cycle tracking can help support stronger ovulation and healthier progesterone production naturally.If you're trying to conceive, navigating recurrent loss, or simply want to better understand your hormones, this episode is packed with practical education and empowering insight.00:00 Intro + Sophia Returns To The Podcast01:24 Why Low Progesterone Matters for Fertility02:34 Why So Many Women Struggle with Progesterone Today13:17 How PCOS, Endometriosis & Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Affect Progesterone15:49 How Progesterone Is Actually Made in the Body19:59 Estrogen vs Progesterone: What Balance Really Means25:49 Can You Have a Weak Ovulation?33:40 Egg Quality vs Progesterone: Which Comes First?35:24 Why Doctors Often Hesitate to Prescribe Progesterone41:59 When Progesterone Supplementation May Help46:16 Signs Your Luteal Phase Needs Support47:56 How to Support Progesterone Naturally50:42 Where to Find Sophia + Final EncouragementResources From This Episode:Sophia's Website - https://www.ttcnutritionist.com/Follow Sophia on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ttc.nutritionistOther Related Episodes:Episode #31: The Power of Progesterone - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000625679300Episode #108: Surviving a Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy with Sophia Pavia - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000703730128Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Send us Fan MailProgesterone-in-oil shots, also known as PIO shots, are one of the most feared and hated parts of IVF. They are uncomfortable, intimidating, and often leave patients wondering: “Do I really need this, or is my fertility doctor just being cruel?”In this episode of Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday, Dr. Mark Amols explains why progesterone matters for implantation, how estrogen and progesterone work together to prepare the uterine lining, and why the type of embryo transfer cycle changes everything.The key question is not simply whether progesterone shots are better than vaginal progesterone. The real question is whether your body is making progesterone on its own.Dr. Amols breaks down the difference between ovulatory or modified natural frozen embryo transfers and programmed frozen embryo transfers. In an ovulatory cycle, the body forms a corpus luteum and produces progesterone naturally. In a programmed cycle, there is no ovulation, no corpus luteum, and therefore no natural progesterone production — meaning all progesterone support must come from medication.This episode also reviews the research comparing daily progesterone-in-oil shots, vaginal progesterone alone, and combination protocols using vaginal progesterone plus intermittent PIO injections. The data shows why vaginal progesterone alone may not be enough in programmed frozen embryo transfer cycles and why many clinics still rely on PIO for reliable progesterone support.Dr. Amols also discusses progesterone blood levels, why levels can be hard to interpret with vaginal progesterone, why clinics may differ in their protocols, and how some patients may be candidates for fewer injections or modified natural cycles.If you are preparing for an embryo transfer, taking progesterone, or wondering why your clinic recommends PIO shots, this episode will help you understand the science behind the shot — and hopefully hate your doctor a little less.The bottom line: fertility doctors are not sadists. Progesterone-in-oil may be a literal pain in the butt, but in some embryo transfer cycles, it has an important purpose.Thanks for tuning in to another episode of 'Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday' with Dr. Mark Amols. If you found this episode insightful, please share it with friends and family who might benefit from our discussion. Remember, your feedback is invaluable to us – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred listening platform.Stay connected with us for updates and fertility tips – follow us on Facebook. For more resources and information, visit our website at www.NewDirectionFertility.com.Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at TBFT@NewDirectionFertility.com.Join us next Tuesday for more discussions on fertility, where we blend medical expertise with a touch of humor to make complex topics accessible and engaging. Until then, keep the conversation going and remember: understanding your fertility is a journey we're on together.

Most women have been told their cycle is something to manage, track for fertility, or push through. What almost no one is saying is that your cycle is a second biological clock running inside your body at all times. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours and is governed by light. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Men have one main rhythm. Women have two. This is not a flaw in our design. It is added intelligence. In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what is actually happening underneath the surface of each phase. Your brain structure shifts across the cycle. Your immune system, metabolism, insulin sensitivity, microbiome, and nervous system are all moving with you. You will learn why the same stressor can feel completely different from one week to the next, why luteal phase cravings are real signals and not willpower failures, and how to begin matching your work, food, and rest to the phase you are actually in. Whether you are trying to conceive or simply want to stop fighting your own body, this episode offers a more accurate map of how you are designed to function.   Key Takeaways: Women have two main biological rhythms. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Most lifestyle and research advice is built around the male 24-hour clock, which is part of why so many women feel exhausted. Your brain structure literally changes across the cycle. The hippocampus shifts in volume, connectivity between regions changes, and verbal fluency, spatial reasoning, and pain perception all move with the phases. Feeling like a different person at different times of the month is neurobiology, not emotional volatility. Your immune system is rhythmic. It is more active in the first half of the cycle and shifts after ovulation, when progesterone becomes mildly immunosuppressive to prepare the uterus for a possible embryo. This is why colds, autoimmune flares, and allergies can shift across the month. Basal metabolic rate rises slightly in the luteal phase, and insulin sensitivity changes. The same meal can land differently depending on where you are in your cycle. Luteal phase cravings are often a real signal of higher energy needs. The gut and vaginal microbiomes also shift cyclically with hormones. You are not a static system. Everything inside your body moves with you. Heart rate variability tends to be higher in the follicular phase and lower in the luteal phase. The same stressor can land very differently depending on when in the month it arrives. Your nervous system is operating from a different baseline. From a TCM perspective, the liver works harder in the luteal phase to prepare for menstruation, which can show up as more irritability, less energy, and stagnation when qi is not flowing freely. Working with the cycle is not just a fertility tool. It is a way of living that supports energy, focus, mood, and recovery across the entire month. Practical starting points: track more than your period (energy, sleep, mood, focus, hunger, stress response), match the work to the phase when possible, and eat in a way that responds to what your body is actually doing in each phase.   Host Bio: Michelle Oravitz, L.Ac., FABORM, is a board-certified fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, and author of The Way of Fertility. She is the host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, where she explores the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern fertility science, nervous system health, and the deeper, often overlooked terrain of mind-body fertility. Through her clinical practice and online programs, Michelle works with women trying to conceive and with practitioners who want to bring a more holistic, integrated approach into their work.   Research and Resources Cited: Brain structure and function changes across the menstrual cycle (hippocampal volume) Cyclical changes in hippocampal volume across the menstrual cycle Menstrual cycle effects on cognition: verbal fluency and spatial reasoning Pain perception and threat sensitivity across the menstrual cycle Progesterone and immune modulation in the luteal phase Basal metabolic rate variation across the menstrual cycle Insulin sensitivity and the menstrual cycle Gut microbiome variation across the menstrual cycle Vaginal microbiome shifts across the menstrual cycle Heart rate variability across the menstrual cycle Cortisol and HPA axis response across the menstrual cycle   Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if your progesterone problem has nothing to do with your hormones, and everything to do with your alarm clock? Stay with me. Your body steals progesterone to make cortisol every time you're stressed, physically or emotionally, and it does this without asking your permission, often before you've even gotten out of bed.In this episode, I'm going rapid-fire through a list of everyday habits that are quietly draining your progesterone production. This isn't a beginner list, and I admit I'm guilty of some of these too! These are the sneaky, "literally everyone does this" kind of habits that feel so normal you'd never think to question them, but your body absolutely notices every single one. So, if you get through this whole episode and somehow find that you don't identify with any of them, please message me, because I will be genuinely shocked.And this matters even if a baby isn't on your radar right now. Building good progesterone today is basically how you bank yourself a smoother perimenopause later, and that's a season I'd love for you to walk into feeling like yourself.Here's what I'm breaking down for you:Why your phone in the morning is priming your nervous system to be stressed for the rest of the day, and yes, switching to email counts just as muchThe real cost of always needing something in your ears, and what I noticed when I finally let myself sit in silence for five minutesWhat it actually means if you're waking up to pee at night, because "I drink a lot of water" probably isn't the full answerTwo light habits almost everyone gets wrong, one in the morning, one at night, and what they're quietly doing to your cortisol and progesteroneThe way you're eating lunch that's messing with your hormones, and it has nothing to do with what's on your plateWhy eating less can slow your metabolism and raise your cortisol, and why discipline has nothing to do with itSome of this stuff is so woven into our daily lives that it feels impossible to even question. My husband legitimately cannot understand why I bought an actual alarm clock instead of just using my phone, and I get it, it sounds a little extra. But once you hear why I made that switch, you'll probably want to make a couple of these same "extra" swaps too. Same goes for the friend who insists she sleeps fine even though she's up to pee twice a night, or the one who can't sit in her car for a five-minute drive without a podcast playing. We've all just normalized so much that our bodies are quietly screaming about it, and a lot of it has nothing to do with food or supplements at all.Here's the thing about progesterone: your body treats it like a luxury hormone. The second you're under any kind of stress - physical, mental, emotional, doesn't matter - your body will steal the raw materials meant for progesterone and use them to make more cortisol instead. So, if a few of these sound a little too familiar, that's not a coincidence. That's your body trying to tell you something.You do not need to overhaul all of these at once; please don't, that never sticks for anyone. Pick the one that hits you the hardest, give it a few consistent weeks, and just watch what shifts. Progesterone doesn't respond to perfection; it responds to consistency, and that's actually really good news.This episode is your permission to question the things you've just always assumed were part of being a busy woman. Hit play, and let's get into it.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:PMS TO PEACE Private Podcast E279: These Emotional Patterns Are Keeping Your Hormones StuckNEED HELP FIXING YOUR HORMONES? CHECK OUT MY RESOURCES:Breakfast GuideNourish Tracker - Discount code: HAPPILYHORMONALBook a FREE Hormone Strategy Call with meGrab your Happily Hormonal Quick Start GuideHormone Imbalance Quiz - Find out which of the top 3 hormone imbalances affects you most!Join Nourish Your Hormones Coaching for the step-by-step and my eyes on YOUR hormones for the next 4 months.Send us a text with episode feedback or ideas! (We can't respond to texts unless you include contact info but always read them)Don't forget to subscribe, share this episode, and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more women looking for answers.Disclaimer: Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine.This podcast is for women and moms to learn how to balance hormones naturally in motherhood, to have pain-free periods, increased fertility, to decrease PMS mood swings, and to increase energy without restrictive diet plans. You'll learn how to balance blood sugar, increase progesterone naturally, understand the root cause of estrogen dominance, irregular periods, PCOS, insulin resistance, hormonal acne, post birth-control syndrome, and conceive naturally. We use a pro-metabolic, whole food, root cause approach to functional women's health and focus on truly holistic health and mind-body connection.If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too! Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark, Found My Fitness with Rhonda Patrick, Just Ingredients Podcast, Wellness Mama, The Dr Josh Axe Show, Are You Menstrual Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Freely Rooted Podcast with Kori Meloy, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass

Today, we're talking about "Everything you need to know about progesterone" with the CEO and Founder of Proov test, Dr. Amy Beckley. With a PhD in pharmacology, and a history of infertility, Dr. Beckley created a test to confirm successful ovulation at home by tracking PdG. She founded MFB Fertility, Inc. and invented the Proov test in her own basement. Now women can purchase this test, and get results in just five minutes at home. Read the full show notes on Dr. Aimee's website   Would you like to learn more about IVF? Click here to join Dr. Aimee for The IVF Class The next live class call is on Monday, July 13, 2026 at 4pm PST, where Dr. Aimee will explain Egg Freezing and there will be time to ask her your questions live on Zoom. Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more fertility tips! Join Egg Whisperer School Checkout the podcast Subscribe to the newsletter to get updates 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.

You were told to try again. Maybe you were told it was bad luck, or to wait until it happened a third time before anyone would look. Here is what changed this year. In 2026, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine updated its definition of recurrent pregnancy loss for the first time since 2012. Two losses now meet the definition, not three, and a positive test that ended early counts. The old number kept women waiting for a third loss before the investigation even started. Here is the part no one tells you. Meeting the definition gets you a workup. It does not guarantee the workup is complete. After two or more losses, up to half of couples are told the same word. Unexplained. The losses are real. What gets called a complete workup is the question. This episode is the 9 specific things we most often find that are rarely checked before a woman is told her losses were unexplained or simply bad luck. Pull it up. Take notes. Bring it to your next appointment. The 9 patterns: Thyroid, the full panel and antibodies, not just TSH Antiphospholipid antibodies, tested correctly Chronic endometritis The reproductive microbiome, vaginal and seminal The gut, hidden gluten, and inflammation Sperm DNA fragmentation The male partner's full bloodwork Blood sugar and metabolic patterns The nervous system and progesterone These are the areas that sit outside a standard miscarriage workup. A 2012 meta-analysis in Human Reproduction, pooling sixteen studies and nearly three thousand couples, found miscarriage rates rose with sperm DNA damage, with about twice the relative risk. Unexplained rarely means there is nothing to find. It usually means the search stopped at the karyotype, one antiphospholipid test, the anatomy, and a TSH. For the full breakdown of every pattern, read the companion article, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: The Functional Fertility Approach, at https://fabfertile.com/blogs/learn/recurrent-pregnancy-loss WHAT YOUR CLINIC MISSED The companion guide walks through all 9 of these patterns in more detail, so you can take it to your next appointment and ask the questions. Email hello@fabfertile.ca, subject line MISSED, and we will send you the guide. FUNCTIONAL FERTILITY SECOND OPINION A free 45-minute call where I review your labs, your history, your losses, and your partner's results with you. You leave knowing what your biology has been telling you and what your next decision could be. Email hello@fabfertile.ca, subject line FERTILE, or book here. ABOUT THE HOST I'm Sarah Clark, founder of Fab Fertile and host of Get Pregnant Naturally, a podcast with over one million downloads. My functional fertility team works with couples navigating low AMH and failed IVF, reviewing functional lab results, gut microbiome, food sensitivity, vaginal microbiome, nutrigenomics, HTMA, DUTCH, toxin testing, and bloodwork alongside nervous system work, to help identify patterns that may not have been considered. We work alongside your medical team, not instead of them. Sarah Clark, founder of Fab Fertile, host of Get Pregnant Naturally (1M+ downloads), and author of Fabulously Fertile. If this episode helped, leave a review on Apple Podcasts. It is how other women find this work. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 What "Unexplained" Means and What the 2026 Guideline Changed 01:30 Who's Reviewing Your Case at Fab Fertile 04:00 Thyroid: The Full Panel, Not Just TSH 05:50 Antiphospholipid Antibodies, Tested Correctly 06:30 Chronic Endometritis 07:30 The Reproductive Microbiome 08:30 The Gut, Hidden Gluten, and Inflammation 10:30 What Your Clinic Missed Guide 11:00 Sperm DNA Fragmentation 12:30 The Male Partner's Full Bloodwork 13:50 Blood Sugar and Metabolic Patterns 15:20 The Nervous System and Progesterone 16:30 What "Unexplained" Really Means 17:20 The Functional Fertility Second Opinion

In my perimenopause health journey, I share why I chose progesterone before thyroid medication and how stress, sleep, and hormones intersect.

Send us Fan MailHormone therapy is used across a wide range of clinical settings—from contraception and menopause management to pregnancy care and gender-affirming therapy. But how do these treatments influence thrombosis risk, and how should clinicians approach these decisions in practice?In this episode of CLOT Conversations, hosts Dr. Jameel Abdulrehman and Dr. Maha Othman speak with Dr. Leslie Skeith and Dr. Shannon Bates about their recent New England Journal of Medicine review on sex hormone influences on venous thrombotic and cardiovascular risk.The discussion explores the thrombotic effects of estrogen, progestogens, and testosterone; differences between hormone formulations; management considerations for patients with prior thrombosis; gender-affirming hormone therapy; and practical approaches to perioperative care.Whether you care for patients receiving contraception, hormone replacement therapy, or gender-affirming care, this episode provides evidence-based guidance to support informed clinical decision-making.For the full publication: https://www.nejm.org/doi/abs/10.1056/NEJMra2202438Support the showhttps://thrombosiscanada.caRegister today for our upcoming conference on November 7, 2026 in Montreal at https://thrombosiscanada.ca/2026ConferenceTake a look at our healthcare professional and patient resources, videos and publications on thrombosis from the expert members of Thrombosis Canada

What happens when the womb is treated as separate from the rest of women's health? In this episode of hol+, Dr. Taz sits down with Dr. Kemi Doll, double board-certified gynecologic oncologist, equity scientist, researcher, coach, and author of A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing, for a powerful conversation about womb health, uterine cancer, fibroids, HRT, health equity, and why so many women are still being taught to normalize symptoms that deserve care.Together, they explore why womb health is not only about pregnancy, fertility, or menopause, but a lifelong part of women's physical, emotional, hormonal, and whole-body health. Dr. Doll shares how her grandmother's death in childbirth, her mother's near-death experience, and her own work as a gynecologic cancer surgeon shaped her mission to bring the uterus back into the center of women's health.Dr. Taz and Dr. Doll also discuss why uterine cancer is rising, why Black women are twice as likely to die after a uterine cancer diagnosis, and how gaps in research, screening, and diagnostic tools may leave women of color especially vulnerable. They unpack the role of ultrasound, endometrial thickness, post-menopausal bleeding, and why women need clearer conversations with their providers when something feels off.This conversation also takes a closer look at the explosion of hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, and the questions every woman with a uterus should be asking. Dr. Doll explains why estrogen without proper progesterone protection can increase uterine cancer risk, why some women may not understand the role progesterone plays, and why monitoring the uterus matters when using hormones.If you're listening to this and thinking, “I know something is off in my body, but I don't know where to start,” join the Circle here:

Thank you for joining us for our 2nd Cabral HouseCall of the weekend!   I'm looking forward to sharing with you some of our community's questions that have come in over the past few weeks…   Matt: Hi Dr Cabral, I'm constantly trying to improve my sleep but can rarely ever get more than 6 to 6 1/2 hours consistently. If I go to bed earlier, I wake up earlier ready to go. Right now I'm taking 2g of taurine, balanced zinc, 500mg magnesium, 100mg theanine, 50mg Apagenin and 3g of glycine. I have no problem falling asleep but consistently wake up around 3-4am. I recently added some Inositol to help get back to sleep but I can't really remember the last time I went to sleep and woke up the next morning by my alarm clock. Just to note, I'm 45 with 3 kids that also like to pop in our room in the middle of the night. Any tips to help get that 7-8 hours I need?       Tricia: Hello Dr C! I'm 57 and I tested my estrogen and progesterone. I'm of course estrogen dominant. I started taking your progesterone support and gosh it is amazing! My sleep has gotten even better! My question is do you think I should take the estrogen supplement too to help balance the two? Are these usually lifetime supplements for post menopausal women? Thanks     Kevin: Just received my annual labs back for annual physical and total Cholesterol is 299, Triglycerides 70, HDL 105, LDL 180, ratio 3.8, and LDL Direct at 182. I have Hashimoto disease, candida for past couple of years and mycotoxins from mold exposure. I cant afford to move out of house so I'm still exposed. I had a functional doctor but can no longer afford the out of pocket expenses. I was on cholestramine powder along with binders but stopped doing them last year because not helping. I'm really worried about having stroke or heart attack. I don't know where to start anymore and been told without moving nothings going to work. What do you recommend I do.? I plan on purchasing Proteolytic Enzymes with Nattokinase to hopefully reduce plaque. What tests do you think would be best for me?       Sienna: Hi Dr. Cabral - hoping you can help! In a country where FM labs aren't an option + entering into mid-40's, surrounded by Perimenopause "fear". I have done your hormone HRA + apart from feeling like I get TRIGGERED a lot easier, I don't have more of the common symptoms (ie night sweats). My cycle the last 2 months was slightly longer but don't want to over think it. I am wondering if there are bloods that can help outline where we are in terms of our hormones (I know saliva is preferable)... I really want to support my hormones, and know you say we can do this naturally well into later life ie 60's! I know estrogen declines + ED is common - would appreciate markers to look at, ranges + if your wife couldn't test what you'd recommend for her :) Thank you for ALL you do! Sienna       Rianna: Hi Dr. Cabral! Sleep it's an area I am REALLY focused on supporting - we know when we are tired everything is harder ;-) & I am all about energy as I move towards my mid-40's.. I track my sleep on Garmin + know you mention Deep Sleep (90 mins) + Rem Sleep (2+ hours) as ideals, but I am no where near there consistently. The only time I get quite close is during my detox. My HRV has improved considerably (almost doubled) since Jan(through substantially reducing alcohol intake + focusing on sleep hygiene). I average on 7 - 7.5 hours sleep, mostly right through or brief wake, + mostly feel great/rested. My REM sleep this morning was 0 minutes (??) - is that reall even possible? 80 mins deep, 6.5 hrs"light" - how much attention would you give it if you feel recharged? Tips? Thx for all you do!     Thank you for tuning into this weekend's Cabral HouseCalls and be sure to check back tomorrow for our Mindset & Motivation Monday show to get your week started off right!   - - - Show Notes and Resources: StephenCabral.com/3782 - - - Get a FREE Copy of Dr. Cabral's Book: The Rain Barrel Effect - - - Join the Community & Get Your Questions Answered: CabralSupportGroup.com - - - Dr. Cabral's Most Popular At-Home Lab Tests: > Complete Minerals & Metals Test (Test for mineral imbalances & heavy metal toxicity) - - - > Complete Candida, Metabolic & Vitamins Test (Test for 75 biomarkers including yeast & bacterial gut overgrowth, as well as vitamin levels) - - - > Complete Stress, Mood & Metabolism Test (Discover your complete thyroid, adrenal, hormone, vitamin D & insulin levels) - - - > Complete Food Sensitivity Test (Find out your hidden food sensitivities) - - - > Complete Omega-3 & Inflammation Test (Discover your levels of inflammation related to your omega-6 to omega-3 levels) - - - Get Your Question Answered On An Upcoming HouseCall: StephenCabral.com/askcabral - - - Would You Take 30 Seconds To Rate & Review The Cabral Concept? The best way to help me spread our mission of true natural health is to pass on the good word, and I read and appreciate every review!  

Is progesterone the most misunderstood hormone in women's health? For decades, women have been told that progesterone is only necessary to protect the uterus. But what if that's only a small part of the story? In this fascinating and thought-provoking episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca welcomes renowned OB-GYN and integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Felice Gersh for a deep dive into the science, controversy, and clinical nuances of progesterone therapy in menopause. Drawing on more than 45 years of clinical experience, Dr. Gersh explains why she believes progesterone is far more than a hormone for pregnancy and uterine protection. Together, she and Dr. Anna explore progesterone's role in brain health, inflammation, metabolism, cardiovascular wellness, sleep, cognition, and healthy aging. They discuss why hormone therapy should never be one-size-fits-all, the differences between progesterone and synthetic progestins, the growing evidence supporting cyclic hormone therapy, and how delivery methods—including oral, vaginal, transdermal, and rectal progesterone—can produce dramatically different effects in the body. The conversation also tackles one of the most controversial topics in women's health: hormone therapy after breast cancer. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why progesterone is a "life hormone," not just a reproductive hormone • The surprising neuroprotective effects of progesterone • How oral progesterone differs from vaginal and transdermal delivery • Why cyclic hormone therapy may more closely mimic natural physiology • The role of allopregnanolone in sleep, mood, cognition, and brain health • How inflammation influences breast cancer risk more than many women realize • Why individualized hormone therapy remains essential for optimal aging If you've ever wondered whether you're using progesterone correctly—or if you've been told you don't need it after menopause—this episode may completely change how you think about hormone health.   Key Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Felice Gersh and why progesterone remains one of the most misunderstood hormones in medicine. 04:30 – Why menopause is a metabolic transition, not simply the end of fertility. 08:45 – Dr. Gersh explains why progesterone should not be viewed solely as uterine protection. 14:20 – The concept of progesterone as a "life hormone" and its effects throughout the body. 21:30 – Cyclic versus continuous hormone therapy and what nature can teach us about hormone rhythms. 28:15 – Neuroprotection, traumatic brain injury research, cognition, and progesterone's impact on brain health. 36:40 – Progesterone versus synthetic progestins: why the distinction matters. 43:55 – Oral progesterone, allopregnanolone, and the surprising effects on sleep, mood, and cognition. 58:10 – The science behind vaginal, transdermal, and rectal progesterone delivery. 1:09:20 – Postmenopausal bleeding, endometrial protection, and important clinical considerations. 1:18:45 – Progesterone, breast cancer, inflammation, and informed consent. 1:31:00 – Final thoughts on individualized hormone therapy and empowering women through education.   Memorable Quotes "I don't call them sex hormones. I call them life hormones." — Dr. Felice Gersh "Progesterone has receptors throughout the body and affects virtually every organ system." — Dr. Felice Gersh "We are not smarter than nature." — Dr. Felice Gersh "Hormone therapy is never one-size-fits-all." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "The underlying issue that caused the cancer wasn't reproductive hormones." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Most women don't need less information—they need better information." — Dr. Felice Gersh   Connect With Guest Website: https://integrativemgi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FeliceGershMD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.felicegersh/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/felicegershmd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicegershmd/   Connect With Dr. Anna Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor  

Some of the more frustrating symptoms of midlife hormone decline and perimenopause is stubborn fat loss, weight gain, and fat redistribution around the midsection. HRT is often part of what's promoted to manage these metabolic changes, and many women expect to lose weight when they start it. While replacing hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone can help with fat loss and muscle gain, some women will experience weight gain for a variety of reasons when they begin using hormones. In this episode I cover the five biggest reasons this happens and what you can do about it. For more info on how I can help you visit my site BetterByDrBrooke. Resources mentioned in this episode: Progesterone cycling: Episode #444 - Should You Be Cycling Your HRT?  Better by Dr. Brooke: adapt + cope - optimal adaptogen blend Better by Dr. Brooke: better + b active - activated b complex Better by Dr. Brooke: better + magnesium - magnesium glycinate complex   Grab the Midlife Is More Than HRT guide free right here if, like me, midlife didn't feel quite like you expected. And be sure to listen to episodes #438 and #439, which were all about the mess that midlife can be, and my 3G + 4R process to tackle it!   Stuff I Know You Will Love If you are looking for an expert prescriber for HRT during your perimenopause or menopause journey but are at odds with your local provider being a bit behind current best practices or you simply can't find anyone near you to help, it is MIDI to the rescue! I've worked with a number of telehealth services in my search for providers that are up to date on modern menopause medicine, have great customer service, and are licensed in all 50 states and I'm so thrilled to have found my provider with MIDI. If you too need help with getting HRT please use this link bit.ly/drbrookemidi to try MIDI with no membership fees and insurance billing available.   Be sure you connect with me in my FREE PRIVATE Facebook group: Hormones & Happiness with Dr. Brooke where other amazing, like-minded women like YOU are already hanging out! Join us!   Follow Dr. Brooke on Instagram and get signed up for my awesome emails here. Seriously, I write really great emails, or so 1000s of women tell me and I'd like to send you one too. To work with Dr. Brooke click here and if you loved this episode, please leave a review!

Do you feel exhausted but can't seem to wind down? That wired-but-tired feeling so many women experience in midlife has a name, and a cause most doctors never address. In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie are joined by Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician and expert in health optimization, to explore the connection between chronic stress, hormone changes, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dr. Scott introduces the concept of the "sympathetic spiral of doom" — the cycle of stress, poor sleep, and cellular energy breakdown that keeps so many women stuck, and shares practical, science-backed ways to break it. The conversation covers methylene blue (what it is, how it works, and who should use it), GABA and nervous system support, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Dr. Scott also explains why only 6% of US adults have optimally functioning mitochondria, and what the other 94% can do about it. Key Takeaways: Chronic stress and hormone fluctuations directly impair mitochondrial function Estrogen is a critical mitochondrial optimizer, losing it in perimenopause has real cellular consequences Only 6% of US adults are metabolically healthy; symptoms of the rest range from brain fog to poor sleep to slow recovery Methylene blue supports mitochondrial energy production and works as a bridge while you optimize your health more broadly If a GABA supplement works for you, that's a warning sign worth paying attention to Down-regulating the nervous system too fast, without mitochondrial support, can cause a crash Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is most effective once you have a foundational health plan in place Sleep is one of the most powerful levers for mitochondrial health 00:00 – Introduction and Dr. Scott's background 04:13 – Why midlife women's bodies stop responding the way they used to 07:32 – Progesterone, GABA, and sleep disruption 09:04 – What mitochondria actually do and why they matter 13:16 – The 6% metabolic health statistic 17:00 – The sympathetic spiral of doom, explained 21:01 – Cortisol: misunderstood and mismanaged 29:32 – What methylene blue is and how to use it 33:55 – Who should not take methylene blue 38:33 – Performance, travel, and targeted use 47:17 – GABA support and down-regulating the nervous system 55:18 – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: benefits, timing, and protocols 01:00:52 – One action to take today 01:03:09 – Where to find Dr. Scott and his products Guest Links: Dr. Scott Sherr: drscottsherr.com Troscriptions: troscriptions.com Use code LIVINGWELL for 10% off Products mentioned: Just Blue, Blue Cannatine, Tro Calm, Tro Zzz This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas. Visit goodhealthsaunas.com and mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Ready for a Reset, On Your Own Time? If you've been feeling sluggish, bloated, inflamed, foggy, or just not like yourself, our Vitality Reboot Anytime is a simple way to give your body the reset it's been craving. This is our do-it-yourself version of The Art of Living Well Podcast® community detox, designed so you can move through the program whenever it works best for you. You'll receive everything you need to support your body with nourishing foods, targeted detox support, and simple daily practices that help you feel lighter, clearer, and more energized. Subscribe to our Substack for wellness tips, episode updates, and your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist: theartoflivingwell.substack.com Follow us: Instagram: @theartofliving_well YouTube: @theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: The Art of Living Well Podcast TikTok: @theartoflivingwel Spotify and Apple Podcasts Connect with your hosts: theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Perimenopause is more than hot flashes and irregular periods. In this episode, host Erin Kerry sits down with Christian nutritionist Chelsea Blackbird to discuss the surprising physical, emotional, and mental changes women experience during midlife hormone shifts. Together they explore the connection between progesterone, estrogen, histamine, anxiety, sleep, trauma, autoimmune conditions, and nervous system health. They also discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT), natural support options like evening primrose oil, vitex, and maca, and why foundational habits such as sunlight, sleep, stress regulation, and nutrition matter more than ever during this season. If you've ever thought, "I don't feel like myself anymore," this conversation will help you understand why—and what you can do to support your body through the transition. Key Topics: - What perimenopause actually is - Why women often feel "off" before cycles become irregular - Progesterone decline and estrogen dominance - Histamine, hives, food sensitivities, and hormone fluctuations - Trauma resurfacing during midlife - Anxiety, self-doubt, and neurotransmitter changes - HRT: benefits, limitations, and common misconceptions - Evening primrose oil, vitex, and maca - Testosterone and female motivation, focus, and libido - Autoimmune flares during perimenopause - The role of sunlight in hormone regulation - Nervous system resilience and adrenal health - Sleep and circadian rhythms - Faith-based stewardship of health 
Links Mentioned: Knead Your Cure Conference: https://www.kneadyourcure.com/ Chelsea's website: https://www.thechristiannutritionist.com/ The School of Christian Health and Nutrition: https://go.thechristiannutritionist.com/christiannutritionschool Join Erin's monthly mailing list to get health tips and fresh meal plans and recipes every month: https://mailchi.mp/adde1b3a4af3/monthlysparksignup Order Erin's new book, Live Beyond Your Label, at erinbkerry.com/upcomingbook/

Anxious in your 40s for the first time ever? Before you assume it's anxiety, let's figure out what is actually happening. In this episode of the Medical Disruptor, I sat down with Dr. Ellen Vora, a board-certified psychiatrist and the author of The Anatomy of Anxiety, and she said something I keep coming back to. A lot of what doctors call anxiety in women over 40 is actually perimenopause. Progesterone is a calming hormone, so when it starts to drop, you get the 3am wake-ups and the out-of-nowhere dread that look exactly like an anxiety disorder. This goes deeper than menopause, though. Ellen broke down how to tell the difference between what she calls false anxiety, the avoidable kind that comes from things like blood sugar crashes, bad sleep, inflammation, and hormone shifts, and true anxiety, which is more like your inner compass telling you something is genuinely out of alignment. We also got into why there isn't solid evidence that anxiety is a serotonin chemical imbalance and why your gut may be driving a lot of it. If your anxiety has never made sense to you, this is where you stop asking how to feel less anxious and start asking what it's trying to tell you. Want more practical health tips? Join my newsletter! https://freechapter.lpages.co/5-phrases-that-are-red-flags/ Check us out on social media: https://www.instagram.com/drefratlamandre https://www.facebook.com/drefratlamandre https://www.tiktok.com/@drefratlamandre #functionalmedicine #drefratlamandre #medicaldisruptor #NPwithaPHD #nursepractitioner #medicalgaslighting Chapters Guest Links: FB: https://www.facebook.com/ellenvoramd/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/ellenvoramd/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@ellenvoramd Website: https://ellenvora.com Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 02:13 – Breaking from the system 13:30 – Why psychiatry never asks "why" 19:41 – The gut-brain connection 23:57 – False vs. true anxiety 30:31 – The real anxiety workup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a lot going on in the luteal phase, but treating premenstrual mood symptoms might be simpler than you think.In this episode, Lara discusses common drivers of hormonal mood symptoms, such as high histamine, high prolactin, and a higher requirement for sodium. Links:Why progesterone is both good and bad for moodIdentifying a link between prolactin and female painMy iodine article ADHD linked to higher risk of premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Are your hormones changing—or are you simply being told that feeling exhausted, anxious, gaining weight, losing sleep, and struggling with brain fog is just a normal part of aging?In this eye-opening episode of the V.I.B.E. Living Podcast, we sit down with women's health expert and nurse practitioner Carolyn Zaumeyer to uncover the truth about menopause, hormone health, and why so many women are suffering unnecessarily.Carolyn breaks down the critical roles of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone and explains how declining hormone levels can impact nearly every system in the body. From hot flashes and night sweats to anxiety, mood changes, low libido, joint pain, vaginal dryness, skin changes, fatigue, and disrupted sleep, we explore the symptoms many women experience but rarely connect to hormones.You'll also learn:• The most common signs of hormone imbalance during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause• How bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) works• The differences between estrogen patches, vaginal estrogen, progesterone, testosterone therapy, and hormone pellets• Why outdated hormone research created decades of confusion and fear around HRT• How proper hormone dosing and individualized treatment plans can improve quality of life• The important lab tests women should consider, including estradiol, testosterone, FSH, thyroid markers, vitamin D, and B12• How to advocate for yourself during medical appointments and get your concerns taken seriously• Why treating root causes is often more effective than adding medication after medicationWe also discuss men's hormone health and how optimizing testosterone can impact energy, mood, vitality, confidence, intimacy, and overall well-being.Whether you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, postmenopause, or simply want to better understand your body's changing needs, this conversation provides practical guidance, expert insights, and hope for the years ahead.If you're ready to feel vibrant, energized, and empowered in midlife and beyond, this episode is for you.

Welcome to this week's Midlife Minute. Today, I'm focusing on all the questions I received about gallbladder health, including HRT-provoking symptoms, supplements that improve gallbladder health, and evidence-based food interventions. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why the risk of gallstones and gallbladder inflammation increases during the menopause transition How estrogen and progesterone HRT have different effects on gallbladder functioning The differences in risk between transdermal and oral HRT How the progesterone in HRT can cause gallbladder issues in some women What TUDCA is, and how it supports gallbladder health The value of TUDCA for women who have had their gallbladders removed How various nutrients and supplements support bile flow and gallbladder health What can contribute to gallstone formation Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Gallbladder Research: Cabrera D, Arab JP, Arrese M. UDCA, NorUDCA, and TUDCA in liver diseases: a review of their mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Seminars in Liver Disease. 2019;39(4):397–404. doi:10.1055/s-0039-1696799  Vang S, Longley K, Steer CJ, Low WC. The unexpected uses of urso- and tauroursodeoxycholic acid in the treatment of non-liver diseases. Global Advances in Health and Medicine. 2014;3(3):58–69. doi:10.7453/gahmj.2014.017  Bai M, Yang L, Liao H, et al. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid improves nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by regulating gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2024;72(41):22655–22668. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c04630  Simon JA, Hudes ES. Relation of serum ascorbic acid to serum vitamin B12, serum ferritin, and kidney stones in US adults. *Archives of Internal Medicine.*1999;159(6):619–624. doi:10.1001/archinte.159.6.619  Walcher T, Haenle MM, Kron M, et al. Vitamin C supplement use may protect against gallstones: an observational study on a randomly selected population. BMC Gastroenterology. 2009;9:74. doi:10.1186/1471-230X-9-74  Tsai CJ, Leitzmann MF, Willett WC, Giovannucci EL. Long-term intake of dietary fiber and decreased risk of cholecystectomy in women. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2004;99(7):1364–1370. doi:10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.30281.x  Leitzmann MF, Stampfer MJ, Willett WC, Spiegelman D, Colditz GA, Giovannucci EL. Coffee intake is associated with lower risk of symptomatic gallstone disease in women. Gastroenterology. 2002;123(6):1823–1830. doi:10.1053/gast.2002.37085  Moerman CJ, Smeets FW, Kromhout D. Dietary risk factors for clinically diagnosed gallstones in middle-aged men — a 25-year follow-up study. Annals of Epidemiology. 1994;4(3):248–254. doi:10.1016/1047-2797(94)90099-x Association between dietary magnesium intake and gallstones: the mediating role of atherogenic index of plasma. Lipids in Health and Disease. 2024;23(1):82. doi:10.1186/s12944-024-02074-4  Pitt HA, Doty JE, Murphy MM, Schwarz MB. Progesterone alters biliary flow dynamics. Annals of Surgery. 1999;229(2):205–209. doi:10.1097/00000658-199902000-00008

You all LOVE progesterone episodes (because it's such a common imbalance) so today we're talking about 4 physical signs you'll experience if you're moving in the right direction & balancing your progesterone levels out.Ways to work with Corinne: Join the Mind Your Hormones Method, HERE! (Use code PODCAST for 10% off!!)Applications for the next round of Corinne's Trying to Conceive Accelerator are now OPEN! Check out the details here. (round starts mid-June!) Episodes Referenced:287. [Q&A] How do you raise progesterone & lower estrogen levels?163. [PART 1] The causes & symptoms of LOW PROGESTERONE!165. [PART 2] Three simple ways to support progesterone levels193. SPOTTING before your period, CERVICAL MUCUS patterns & LOW PROGESTERONE Join the Mind Your Hormones Community to connect more with me & other members of this community!Come hang out with me on Instagram: @corinneangealicaOr on TikTok: @corinneangelicaEmail Fam: Click here to get weekly emails from meMind Your Hormones Instagram: @mindyourhormones.podcast Disclaimer: always consult your doctor before taking any supplementation. This podcast is intended for educational purposes only, not to diagnose or treat any conditions. 

“Every woman deserves the chance to have a real discussion about hormone therapy — and make whatever decision is right for her. I'm here to give information and answer questions. It's your body.”— Dr. Jacqueline RiedelThe doctor who finally has time for youDr. Jacqueline Riedel, DO spent 15 years in family medicine where she learned this: women's hormonal health in midlife was profoundly under-treated and misunderstood. In a busy hospital-based clinic, she'd start a long-overdue conversation with a patient about perimenopause symptoms… and have to cut it off because the schedule demanded it.So she left. She opened Magnolia Midlife Women's Health, a direct-care practice built on something simple but radical: unhurried, conversational visits where women can actually ask their questions, get real answers, and leave feeling seen.In this conversation, she covers what's really happening hormonally in your 30s, 40s, and 50s and why everything you were told to fear about hormone therapy probably isn't the full story.Perimenopause starts earlier than you thinkDr. Riedel sees women with perimenopause symptoms long before any changes in the menstrual cycle. If you've been dismissed, or told your symptoms are just stress or mom-brain, you're not alone. Symptoms she commonly sees:• New insomnia: can't fall asleep or waking for no apparent reason• Anxiety, often misread as “just life stress”• Persistent, unexplained fatigue• Hot flashes and night sweats• Mood changes including irritability, low mood, brain fog• Cycle irregularities such as heavier periods, irregular timingDr. Riedel's approach: map symptoms to your cycle. When do they happen? Are there patterns? She also rules out other common causes, including thyroid issues and iron deficiency before exploring hormone therapy as an option.MYTH BUSTINGThe fears holding women back from reliefTwo decades after the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study was misread and sensationalized, fear still dominates the conversation around hormone therapy. Dr. Riedel sets the record straight.Myth 1: Hormone therapy causes breast cancer.Fact: Long-term WHI follow-up showed women in the hormone treatment group had lower rates of breast cancer. Even a first-degree family history is not a contraindication. And if breast cancer does occur in someone using MHT, their risk of dying is actually lower than in those not using it.Myth 2: The doses in MHT are dangerously high.Fact: Menopausal hormone therapy doses are far lower than those in oral contraceptive pills. If you'd prescribe the pill, you can't logically call MHT dangerous.Myth 3: Vaginal estrogen has systemic effects and should be avoided in cancer history.Fact: Topical vaginal estrogen has negligible systemic absorption. It reduces UTIs, yeast infections, urinary frequency, and pelvic floor dysfunction, even in women under active breast cancer treatment, per emerging oncology research. The FDA recently removed the black-box warning.TREATMENT OVERVIEWHow Dr. Riedel approaches careThere's no single protocol. Dr. Riedel listens first, identifying the top two or three symptoms most affecting quality of life, and builds from there.Progesterone for sleep & anxiety• Stimulates GABA production, a calming neurotransmitter• Helps with sleep onset and staying asleep• Reduces the racing mind at 2am• Often the first place she startsEstrogen for vasomotor symptoms• Addresses night sweats, hot flashes, palpitations• Keeps estrogen levels from dropping to “empty”• Preferred as transdermal (patch, gel, spray) to avoid blood clot risk• Added when progesterone alone isn't enoughVaginal estrogen for urogenital health• Reduces painful intercourse and dryness• Decreases UTIs and yeast infections• Supports pelvic floor health long-term• About 50% of women need this even on systemic estrogenNon-hormonal options when hormones aren't right• Newer medications targeting particular neurons in the hypothalamus (hot flash regulation)Things you can do and questions to askDr. Riedel's conversation offers practical starting points for women navigating this transition on their own or with a provider.01. Track your symptoms in relation to your cycleSleep disruption, anxiety, and mood changes that follow a cyclic pattern are often hormonal in origin. Note when in your cycle you feel worst because this information is gold for any provider visit.02. Ask your doctor to rule out thyroid and iron firstFatigue, brain fog, and sleep issues can also come from iron deficiency or thyroid dysfunction. Simple labs can clarify what you're actually dealing with before hormones enter the picture.03. Reconsider what's in your sleep toolkitAlcohol before bed worsens sleep, hot flashes, and anxiety, even though it feels like it helps. Benadryl/ZQuil, Ambien, and benzodiazepines disrupt true sleep architecture. CBT for insomnia has strong evidence and virtually zero side effects. 06. Consider this a second puberty — not a declineMidlife is a genuine developmental threshold. Dr. Riedel and Margaret Mead's concept of “postmenopausal zest” both point in the same direction: this can be a time of clarity, reclaimed energy, and real possibility if you get the support your body actually needs.REFERENCES & RESOURCES[Podcast] Kelly Casperson, MD — You Are Not BrokenUrologist and leading voice in the menopause space. Dr. Riedel's “gateway” into this field. Highly recommended for patients and providers alike.[Course] Rachel Rubin, MD — Physician Webinar SeriesSex medicine specialist and urologist based in Washington, D.C. Physician-only course covering the science of hormones, common fears, and evidence-based prescribing. Her tagline: “What are you afraid of?”[Course] Heather Hirsch, MD — Menopause EducationA well-regarded course for providers wanting to build competence in this space.[Organization] The Menopause Society (formerly NAMS)Membership, certification exam, slide decks, and a comprehensive textbook. menopause.org[Supplement Review] Labdoor.comIndependent third-party testing of supplement brands for purity and label accuracy.FIND DR. RIEDELMagnolia Midlife Women's HealthA direct-care practice built for women who are tired of feeling rushed, dismissed, and underserved. Long visits. Real conversations. Evidence-based care from a physician who actually gets it.Free 15-min consult Not sure if you need this kind of care? Book a quick call to talk through your symptoms and see if Magnolia is the right fit.Website: magnoliamidlife.comInstagram: @magnolia_midlifeUpcoming Event — June 30 Free public lecture at the Haddonfield Public Library: “Is It a Fad?” An evening on perimenopause, evidence, and what women deserve to know. Register through the library website.Thanks for reading A Mind of Her Own! This post is public so feel free to share it.

Send us Fan Mail"Can't we just lie down in our power? Do we have to step into it?"That question, offered by Ayurvedic teacher Claudia Welch, sparked everything in this episode. Because when we talk about stepping into our power, we are implying that power is somewhere outside of us — something to reach for, to put on, to earn. But what if that image is wrong?What if our power is not something we need to step into, but something we need to remember? What if it has been there all along — beneath the people-pleasing, the masking, the overriding of our bodies, the making ourselves smaller to fit into a world that was not built for us?In this solo episode I explore:The difference between stepping into power and remembering power — and why that distinction matters deeply, especially in midlifeThe Ayurvedic framework of langhana and brahmana — why we live in a profoundly langhana (outputting, reducing, forward-moving) world, and what we lose when brahmana (nourishing, building, gathering inward) is treated as optionalThe feminine archetypes of power — Durga, Athena, the Maori women — fierce and powerful, but different in nature from the masculineThe layers we are peeling away: people-pleasing, masking, performing wellness, overriding the body's signals, making ourselves smallerThe two hormonal clocks — how testosterone operates on a 24-hour circadian rhythm that the entire modern world was built around, while estrogen and progesterone operate on a 28-day infradian rhythm with four distinct phases, each asking something different from the body and brainWhy researchers excluded women from clinical trials because their monthly hormonal variability was too complicated — and how that shaped an entire model of medicine and productivity that was never designed for a female bodyThe four phases of the feminine cycle and what each one genuinely requires — including why rest must come before output in certain phases, not as a reward for productivity but as a biological prerequisitePerimenopause as initiation — why so many women hit burnout and hormonal transition at the same moment, why the symptoms are not a sign of failure, and why this season is actually an invitation into a deeper relationship with your own powerWhy midlife, when estrogen begins to drop, can bring its own kind of liberation — as certain veils begin to fall away on their ownThe community piece — why coming together with other women and speaking these truths out loud is itself part of reclaiming feminine powerWhy you don't need to figure out how to change the system — and what your one small step is this weekThis episode is for every woman who has ever felt like she couldn't keep up, and wondered what was wrong with her. Nothing is wrong with you. You are simply running on a different clock.Free resources mentioned:Nourished for Resilience Workbook — self-assessment, resourcing ideas, reflection questions, and habit trackerDIY At-Home Weekend Nervous System Reset Template Teachers mentioned: Claudia Welch (Ayurveda, women's health and hormones) — Alisa Vitti (In the Flo, infradian rhythm and cycle syncing)Resources:Free Masterclass:  The Alchemy of the Perimenopause PortalAyurvedic Dosha Quick Reference GuideAbhyanga Self Massage GuideWeekend Nervous System ResetNourished For Resilience Workbook Find me at www.nourishednervoussystem.comand @nourishednervoussytem on Instagram

You've heard about hot flashes. Maybe you've even had them. But the hormone shift that's quietly dismantling your mood, your metabolism, your sleep, and your sense of self? That started years before menopause and most women have no idea. In this solo episode, Dr. Terri DeNeui maps the full three-decade hormone timeline every woman needs to understand: the testosterone loss that begins in your 30s (and its devastating, and overlooked connection to depression), the progesterone decline that hits like a wall in your 40s, and the estrogen fluctuation that makes the late 40s and early 50s the most miserable stretch for many women. She also makes the case for thyroid as the most underdiagnosed piece of the puzzle and explains why a normal TSH doesn't mean your thyroid is actually working. Along the way, she takes on the antidepressant default, sharing her own doctoral research showing that women who optimized their testosterone resolved their depression entirely and the birth control pill habit that well-meaning gynecologists are still prescribing after 40, despite a very real and elevated stroke risk. This episode is for women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who've been told their labs are fine but know something is wrong and for anyone who wants to understand what's actually happening before settling for symptoms management. What you'll discover: Why testosterone, not estrogen is the first hormone women lose, and what that means for mood, focus, and body composition [04:50] The doctoral research that changed how Dr. Terri thinks about depression in women and antidepressants [05:17] Progesterone: the calming hormone that disappears in your 40s and why heavy, painful cycles are a deficiency not a life sentence [07:19] Why birth control pills after 40 carry serious stroke risk and what to use instead [08:50] The estrogen fluctuation that makes the late 40s and early 50s the hardest stretch for most women [09:43] Why "normal" lab ranges are based on a sick, unhealthy population and where you actually want your numbers [19:44] Thyroid: the most underdiagnosed condition in older women and why TSH alone doesn't tell the full story [16:33] T4 vs. T3 — and the key enzyme most women are quietly losing as they age [17:26] Why women need hormone optimization across the full lifespan not just to manage symptoms during the transition [14:04] The bottom line: your hormones don't just affect how you feel during menopause they shape every decade of your health. Finding a clinician who understands optimization, not just symptom management, changes everything. The Dr. Terri Show is presented by EVEXIAS Health Solutions. For more, visit: https://www.evexias.com Connect with Dr. Terri:

Maria Emmerich is a bestselling author, nutritionist, and wellness expert known for her practical, science-informed approach to ketogenic and low-carb living. After struggling with her own health and weight challenges, Maria transformed her life through nutrition and has since dedicated her career to helping others improve metabolic health, heal their relationship with food, and simplify healthy living. She is the author of numerous bestselling books, including Keto, The Carnivore Cookbook, and Quick & Easy Ketogenic Cooking. Through her books, coaching, and speaking, Maria has become one of the most trusted voices in the low-carb and keto community. In this episode, Dr. Brian and Maria talk about… (00:00) Intro (01:53) Bioidentical hormone therapy (05:58) Progesterone (08:39) Testosterone (11:15) Tips for hormone testing (12:46) Hormone pellets (15:30) Forms of hormone therapy (17:40) Hormones and sleep quality (19:24) Liver health (22:24) Peptides (33:36) Dietary/lifestyle modifications for treating various diseases (34:32) Magnesium (35:25) B1 Thiamin (36:26) Iodine (37:51) Knowledge and action (40:13) Gut health and carbohydrates (47:20) Strength training and running (48:39) Surfing whales (49:10) Outro/plugs  For more information, please see the links below. Thank you for listening! Links: Please consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.lowcarbmd.com/ Maria Emmerich: Website: https://mariamindbodyhealth.com/ NEW BOOK: https://keto-adapted.com/product/the-art-of-metabolic-health/ X: https://x.com/MariaEmmerich IG: https://www.instagram.com/mariaemmerich/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@MariaEmmerich Dr. Brian Lenzkes:  Website: https://arizonametabolichealth.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrianLenzkes?ref_src=twsrc^google|twcamp^serp|twgr^author Dr. Tro Kalayjian:  Website: https://toward.health Twitter: https://twitter.com/DoctorTro IG: https://www.instagram.com/doctortro/ Toward Health App Join a growing community of individuals who are improving their metabolic health; together.  Get started at your own pace with a self-guided curriculum developed by Dr. Tro and his care team, community chat, weekly meetings, courses, challenges, message boards and more.  Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/doctor-tro/id1588693888  Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.co.disciplemedia.doctortro&hl=en_US&gl=US Learn more: https://toward.health/community/

Are you going to feel good all summer, or hit August wondering why you became a different person from the neck up? Summer always feels like the healthiest (and happiest) season - lighter food, a few drinks at the barbecue, more movement, sunshine, a slower pace. So why do so many women feel worse in July and August than any other time of year?Turns out, summer is one of the sneakiest seasons for progesterone. It's because everything you do looks completely right and healthy, but the habits that look the most innocent are the ones that cause harm. And your body keeps a running tab. So by mid-July, it starts sending you the bill, in the form of PMS that's crept back, mood swings you thought you'd fixed, and that specific kind of exhaustion that no amount of sleep seems to touch.I'd like you to know: this is not a willpower problem. Your body is just running on less safety than it needs to make progesterone, and it's been doing that since May.Here's what we get into:The summer-specific breakfast habit that feels like a healthy upgrade but spikes your cortisol every single morning (yes, even the organic macro-balanced version)Why your luteal phase in July and August is almost always the worst of the year, and the one thing that actually protects itWhat GLP-1s and rapid summer weight loss do to your estrogen and progesterone, and what to watch for if this is you (or your friend)No one is telling you to skip the barbecue or eat a hot breakfast in a heatwave. This is an honest conversation that helps you actually feel good when August gets here, instead of just surviving it.If you've ever looked at your calendar in September and thought, "Okay, now I actually have to fix myself," this episode is for you. Because the fix is a lot simpler than a full reset, and it starts right now, in June, before compounding even has a chance to happen.Pop it on while you're making dinner tonight. It's about 20 minutes, and it might be the most useful thing you'll listen to all summer.Fix Your Breakfast, Fix Your Hormones Podcast CourseE57: How Much Does Alcohol REALLY Impact Your Hormones?NEED HELP FIXING YOUR HORMONES? CHECK OUT MY RESOURCES:Breakfast GuideNourish Tracker - Discount code: HAPPILYHORMONALBook a FREE Hormone Strategy Call with meGrab your Happily Hormonal Quick Start GuideHormone Imbalance Quiz - Find out which of the top 3 hormone imbalances affects you most!Join Nourish Your Hormones Coaching for the step-by-step and my eyes on YOUR hormones for the next 4 months.Send us a text with episode feedback or ideas! (We can't respond to texts unless you include contact info but always read them)Don't forget to subscribe, share this episode, and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more women looking for answers.Disclaimer: Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine.This podcast is for women and moms to learn how to balance hormones naturally in motherhood, to have pain-free periods, increased fertility, to decrease PMS mood swings, and to increase energy without restrictive diet plans. You'll learn how to balance blood sugar, increase progesterone naturally, understand the root cause of estrogen dominance, irregular periods, PCOS, insulin resistance, hormonal acne, post birth-control syndrome, and conceive naturally. We use a pro-metabolic, whole food, root cause approach to functional women's health and focus on truly holistic health and mind-body connection.If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too! Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark, Found My Fitness with Rhonda Patrick, Just Ingredients Podcast, Wellness Mama, The Dr Josh Axe Show, Are You Menstrual Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Freely Rooted Podcast with Kori Meloy, Simple Farmhouse Life with Lisa Bass

If you've been following a low-histamine diet for months and still reacting, this episode is going to reframe everything. Most histamine protocols treat this as a food supply problem. Avoid the aged cheese, take the DAO enzyme, cut the fermented foods. But for women whose symptoms track with their cycle, flare before their period, or seem to be getting worse despite all the right interventions, the food list is never going to be enough. We go deep into the work of Dr. Ray Peat, biologist and physiologist, to make the case that histamine excess in women is fundamentally a hormonal and metabolic problem. Estrogen directly multiplies mast cells and activates them to release histamine. Progesterone stabilizes them. Thyroid function governs the entire hormonal environment. And a gut producing endotoxin feeds back into estrogen production in ways that keep the whole cycle running. We cover: Why estrogen is the primary upstream driver of histamine excess in women The estrogen-histamine feedback loop and why it intensifies around your period What thyroid function has to do with histamine and why it's almost never addressed Why seed oils and low-carb approaches may be worsening the problem The gut-endotoxin-estrogen connection The heavy metal and liver piece that changed everything for me personally What Peat actually recommended, and what to bring to your provider Resources → PUORI | Go to https://puori.com/HEALINGTHESOURCE and use the code HEALINGTHESOURCE at checkout to get 32% off your first Puori Grass-fed Whey Protein subscription order and get a free shaker worth $25. Follow the host, Claudia, on Instagram, check out Elham's Liquid Gold 100% Organic Castor Oil, and enjoy her deep-dives on Substack My hormone supports: Raena discount code: HEALINGTHESOURCE10 -Thyroid test -Full hormone test -Dessicated thyroid -Progesterone cream -Sheep thymus My favorite salt: Vera Salt discount code: CLAUDIA

Told donor eggs after failed IVF? There is a category of testing that your fertility clinic does not run. We rarely run a stool test and find nothing. The IVF cycle did not work. Maybe it was poor response. Maybe it was canceled before retrieval. Maybe you got embryos and they arrested. Maybe the transfer failed. Your clinic looked at your numbers and told you donor eggs. In this episode, Sarah Clark walks through the gut pattern the Fab Fertile team sees in women who come to us after failed IVF with a donor egg recommendation, and why this pattern changes the picture before the next decision. What this episode covers: H. pylori. One of the most common findings in the women who come to us after failed IVF. It impairs absorption of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc, the nutrients that affect egg quality, thyroid function, and hormone production. It is passed back and forth between partners through saliva. If you have it, there is a strong chance your partner has it too. Parasites, giardia, blastocystis. Common findings. Rarely tested at the fertility clinic. Bacterial overgrowth, including streptococcus. Fungal overgrowth and dysbiosis. The reason chasing an anti-candida diet without testing moves you in circles. Elevated calprotectin. A signal of gut inflammation, often present in women with IBD, Crohn's, colitis, and women with no formal diagnosis. Elevated zonulin. A marker of intestinal permeability. The pattern we see after rounds of antibiotics, sinus infections, UTIs, birth control, and high stress. Why this matters before a donor egg decision: H. pylori impairs iron absorption. Ferritin reads low or low-normal. The clinic says iron is fine because the lab range starts around 15. The fertility-optimized range is closer to 50. Iron is foundational to egg quality. The oxygen carrying capacity to your follicles depends on it. B12 affects methylation, the process your body uses to produce the co-factors needed for egg maturation. Zinc affects ovulation and progesterone production. Chronic gut inflammation affects ovarian response to stimulation, implantation, and miscarriage risk. When your clinic looks at a canceled cycle, arrested embryos, or a failed transfer and recommends donor eggs, they are responding to the outcome. They are not asking what is driving the outcome. This episode is for the woman sitting with a donor egg recommendation who is not ready to agree before she understands what was actually evaluated. Next steps: Access the free guide: What Your Clinic Missed. It walks through the markers we review before a donor egg recommendation, including the thyroid panel, the iron panel with the fertility target, the gut testing your REI does not order, the inflammatory markers, and the male side. Email hello@fabfertile.ca, subject line MISSED. Book a Functional Fertility Second Opinion. We will review your labs, your history, your full picture, and your partner's picture together. You will leave knowing what your biology has been telling you and what your next decision should be informed by. Email hello@fabfertile.ca, subject line FERTILE. Or apply here. About the Host I'm Sarah Clark, founder of Fab Fertile and host of Get Pregnant Naturally, a podcast with over one million downloads. My functional fertility team works with couples navigating low AMH and failed IVF, reviewing functional lab results, gut microbiome, food sensitivity, vaginal microbiome, nutrigenomics, HTMA, DUTCH, toxin testing, and  bloodwork alongside nervous system work, to help identify patterns that may not have been considered. We work alongside your medical team, not instead of them. Subscribe to Get Pregnant Naturally for weekly episodes on fertility optimization, IVF preparation, and the lab work your doctor probably isn't running. Timestamps [00:00] Told Donor Eggs After Failed IVF [01:00] Why the Fab Fertile Team Reviews Your Picture [02:00] H. pylori: The Most Common Gut Finding We See [03:00] Parasites, Streptococcus, and the Bacteria Most REIs Do Not Test [04:00] Why a Single Gut Test Without Fertility Context Misses the Picture [05:00] Iron, Ferritin, and the Fertility Range vs the Lab Range [06:00] B12, Methylation, and Egg Maturation [07:00] Zinc, Ovulation, and Progesterone [08:00] What Your Clinic Missed: The Markers Before a Donor Egg Recommendation [09:00] Why a Donor Egg Recommendation Responds to the Outcome, Not the Cause [10:00] The Functional Fertility Second Opinion: What the Call Covers

Is progesterone the same as a progestin? It sounds like it should be. It is absolutely not. And that distinction matters more than most women — and many providers — realize.This is the conversation Dr. Carolyn Moyers has multiple times a day in clinic — especially with women in perimenopause who are trying to understand their options, figure out why a previous hormone regimen made them feel worse, or advocate for a prescription that actually fits their biology. It is also one of the most consequential mix-ups in all of menopause medicine, and it is long overdue for a dedicated episode.Bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins are not interchangeable. They have different molecular structures, different receptor profiles, and meaningfully different effects on your breast tissue, your cardiovascular system, your sleep, and your brain. The WHI study — the one that scared a generation of women off hormone therapy — tested a synthetic progestin, not bioidentical progesterone. And the breast cancer finding it reported was not even statistically significant. That context has been almost entirely missing from the public conversation. Until now.In this episode:• What bioidentical progesterone actually is — and how it differs from synthetic progestins at the molecular level• The WHI study: what it actually tested, and why its results have been misapplied for 20+ years• Breast cancer risk: the ESTHER study and what the evidence actually shows• Cardiovascular differences between progesterone and MPA (Provera)• Why progesterone is a neuroactive steroid — and what that means for your sleep, anxiety, and mood• Uterine protection: what it is, why it matters, and whether bioidentical progesterone is sufficient• What to do if you don't have a uterus — and whether you still need progesterone• Perimenopause: why the progestogen conversation is completely different when you still have cycles, variable ovarian function, and potentially need contraception• The levonorgestrel IUD, norethindrone acetate 5mg vs. the minipill, and Slynd (drospirenone 4mg) — what each one does and who it's for• Exactly how to advocate for yourself at your next appointmentResources mentioned:• ESTHER Study (Fournier et al.) — progesterone vs. MPA and breast cancer risk• Women's Health Initiative (2002)• Prometrium prescribing information• Labia Logic (@labialogic) — vulvovaginal specialists | Memorial Day vulvar health post: instagram.com/p/DYqK9uvj2M8• Sky Women's Health Podcast — Episode 158: Progesterone Intolerance | podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/episode-158-progesterone-intolerance/id1541657642?i=1000640152675Work with Dr. Moyers: skywomenshealth.com | In-person: Fort Worth, TX | Virtual: Texas & West Virginia

Could a simple magnesium deficiency be the hidden reason behind your PMS, low progesterone, and implantation struggles?Your luteal phase is one of the most important windows for fertility, implantation, and sustaining early pregnancy — and magnesium plays a critical role in keeping this phase stable. If you're experiencing PMS, anxiety after ovulation, cramping, insomnia, spotting before your period, or a short luteal phase, your body may be signaling that it needs more magnesium support.In this episode you'll learn...-How magnesium supports progesterone production, implantation, and luteal phase stability-The connection between magnesium, stress hormones, PMS symptoms, and fertility struggles-The best food sources and supplement forms of magnesium to naturally support your cycle and fertilityPress play to learn how restoring magnesium levels may be one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support your fertility naturally.

//The Wire//2300Z May 19, 2026// //ROUTINE// //BLUF: DETAILS EMERGE REGARDING YESTERDAYS SHOOTING IN CALIFORNIA. TENSIONS INCREASE IN IRELAND FOLLOWING DEATH OF CONGOLESE NATIONAL. WAR POTENTIAL IN MIDDLE EAST REMAINS AS ALL PARTIES CONTINUE PREPARING FOR CONFLICT.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE-----  -International Events-Ireland: Tensions have increased sharply following the death of a Congolese man on Friday. Yves Sakila died while resisting arrest, after he shoplifted from a local store and broke an elderly man's leg. This death has resulted in a mobilization of the Congolese population of Dublin, with mass protests planned for tonight and the next few days.Analyst Comment: It's too soon to tell, but many locals are saying this is Dublin's version of George Floyd in terms of civil unrest and the large Congolese population in Ireland. Roving bands of Congolese gangs commonly cause problems within Dublin, and since local tensions were already boiling before this, clashes are likely if the Congolese decide to escalate the situation.Middle East: The potential for a resumption of the war remains on the table, as rhetoric on all sides continues to escalate. The creation and streamlining of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (the Iranian organization that has claimed administrative control of the Strait) has continued to be of cause for concern for western-aligned vessels. The handful of ships that are transiting the Strait are sailing with their transponders turned off, and so far all vessels have transited with Iranian approval. This afternoon, President Trump stated that he was only one hour away from ordering the resumption of the fighting yesterday. He also stated that the fighting may resume in a few days regardless, and all parties around the region remain ready for the ceasefire to come to an end.-HomeFront-Alabama: Yesterday a suspect was arrested in conjunction with a missing person investigation in Northport. Two weeks ago, Karen Deann Hollis was reported missing, after concerned family members failed to locate her. On Saturday, her remains were located at an undisclosed location in Greene County. At the scene, authorities arrested Randall Lendell Dejourney on charges of abusing human remains for 8 days. He is being held in jail on a $15,000 cash bond and no murder charges have been filed.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: Few details have come to light regarding yesterday's shooting at the San Diego Islamic Center, however the suspects have been identified as Cain Clark and Caleb Vazquez. The two shooters attempted to conduct a mass shooting at the facility, and began the attack by killing the security guard at the front entry point of the building. After making entrance to the facility, the suspects killed two more people, before re-entering their vehicle and driving a short distance from the facility. Both suspects were found deceased inside the vehicle with self-inflicted gunshot wounds.Concerning the suspects themselves, the very few details that have emerged indicate this was very likely the standard transgender shooting. Both suspects were of questionable status, though both appear to have been born male. Slogans and statements were written on the firearms with a white paint pen, which has become a staggeringly common calling card of most trans-affiliated mass shootings (as the shooters often try to copy previous attacks). Both attackers appear to have been Hispanic, but also used symbols from political movements that would not have approved of their lifestyle choices, which is another hallmark of such attacks as well.No official link to the Order of Nine Angles (O9A) or the 764 Network has been made, however this would be wise to investigate as this shooting is nearly identical to all prior O9A/764 mass murders from years past. The attackers also allegedly livestreaming the attack fits with many other similar attacks as well.Of note, another bit of amplifying information might be helpful for factoring in to risk assessments. Five days ago, a nationwide shortage of Progesterone was reported. Among many other more traditional uses, this medication is used by transgender individuals to level out mood changes during their process. More strategically, this could be nothing or it could be something. There's no indication at all that the two shooters in California were affected by this drug, and there is no evidence linking this attack to any drug shortage as drug shortages happen all of the time for varying reasons. However, copycat incidents are an extreme risk in the wake of attacks like this, and a drug which is intended to affect mood changes among this population is in short supply. Again, this might be a loose correlation at best, but it's worth being aware of when trying to calculate the risk of future copycat attacks.Analyst: S2A1 Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2underground Disclaimer: No LLMs were used in the writing of this report. //END REPORT//

If YOU'RE ready to make real, sustainable change in your life, jump on a free call with us - https://physiquedevelopment.typeform.com/to/ToP9TYLEIn today's episode, Alex answers a question he's received several times recently on mentorship calls: What's the difference between progesterone and progestins?These two are often talked about as if they're interchangeable, or as though progestins are a perfect mimic of progesterone, but that's far from the full picture.He breaks down what progesterone and progestins actually are, how they differ physiologically, and the unique effects each can have on the body.This episode is designed to bring clarity to a conversation that's often oversimplified, helping you better understand the nuance behind hormones and hormone-related interventions.Have questions for future episodes or a topic you'd like us to cover? Submit them here - https://forms.gle/AEu5vMKNLDfmc24M7As always, it is our goal not only to supply you, the listener, with valuable insights on the topics or questions but also to plant some seeds for further research and thought. Be sure to like and subscribe and leave us a review wherever you're listening if you loved this episode!Timestamps:(0:00) Today's topic(0:52) What is progesterone?(2:00) How progesterone interacts with the body(2:03) a) Brain(2:39) b) Sleep(3:34) c) Metabolism(3:54) d) Inflammation(4:20) e) Breast tissue(4:56) f) Bones(5:17) What are progestins?(7:07) Common progestins you may encounter(8:02) How progestins interact differently with the body(8:05) a) Brain(8:34) b) Sleep(8:47) c) Metabolism(9:18) So what does this mean about birth control?(10:22) An alternate solutionOPTIMIZE Your Muscle-Building:Why You're Not Building Muscle Even Though You Lift Weights - https://pod.fo/e/3542c6Why You DON'T Need a Huge Surplus to Build Muscle - https://pod.fo/e/358b03How to Build Muscle While MINIMIZING Fat Gain (Part 1) - https://pod.fo/e/35d759How to Build Muscle While MINIMIZING Fat Gain (Part 2) - https://pod.fo/e/361fc8How Long Should a Muscle‑Building Phase Really Last? - https://pod.fo/e/366a56Follow us on Instagram:Coach Alex - https://www.instagram.com/alexbush__Coach Sue - https://www.instagram.com/suegainzPhysique Development - https://www.instagram.com/physiquedevelopment_Physique Development Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/physiquedevelopmentpodcast----Produced by: David Margittai | In Post MediaWebsite: https://www.inpostmedia.comEmail: david@inpostmedia.com© 2026, Physique Development LLC. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Lisa welcomes back Dr. Jerilynn Prior, endocrinologist, UBC Professor Emerita, and founder of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR), for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges mainstream narratives about perimenopause and hormone therapy. Dr. Prior shares her research-backed perspective on why perimenopause is often characterized by erratically high estrogen rather than low estrogen, and how this physiological reality reshapes the conversation around symptoms like night sweats, sleep disturbances, heavy flow, and sore breasts. She discusses her randomized controlled trial demonstrating that progesterone is effective for night sweats and sleep in perimenopausal women, and explains why approximately 30% of perimenopausal women experience symptoms severe enough to warrant treatment. Lisa and Dr. Prior also explore findings from the Women's Health Initiative, the difference between treating symptomatic women and prescribing hormones preventively, and why the cultural framing of menopause as a deficiency disease misrepresents what is, for most women, a normal life transition. Tune in as Dr. Prior shares decades of research on the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and the often-overlooked role of progesterone in women's health across the lifespan. Follow this link to view the full show notes page! This episode is sponsored by Lisa's new book, Real Food for Fertility, co-authored with Lily Nichols! Grab your copy here!

Most women are suffering for years from anxiety, gut problems, low libido, and brain fog because no one is treating the real cause: their hormones. This episode is a masterclass in women's hormone optimization, covering everything from vaginal delivery of bioidentical hormones to why low estrogen destroys your gut, your sex drive, your mitochondria, and your marriage. Watch this episode on YouTube for the full video experience: https://www.youtube.com/@DaveAspreyBPR Host Dave Asprey sits down with Dr. Sarah Daccarett, MD, a physician, longevity expert, and the founder and CEO of Inner Balance, a modern women's health company redefining hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aging. She has treated tens of thousands of women across all 50 states and is known for challenging outdated medical models and building science-driven solutions that reflect female biology rather than borrowing protocols designed for men. She created Oestra, a revolutionary hormone therapy delivery system, along with Libida, an on-demand libido solution that targets desire at the brain level, making her one of the most credible and innovative voices in functional medicine and women's longevity today. Together, they expose why conventional medicine has failed women for decades, why patches and pills are nearly useless, and what actually works for anti-aging, metabolism, longevity, and human performance. Dr. Sarah makes the case that hormone replacement therapy is not a last resort for menopausal women. It is a foundational longevity strategy that every woman should consider starting in her 20s. You'll Learn: Why vaginal hormone delivery outperforms every other delivery method for women How low estrogen destroys your gut lining, gallbladder, and immune system long before menopause symptoms appear Why a carnivore or animal-based diet raises estrogen and why fiber lowers it How progesterone converts to testosterone in women, and why you may not need a testosterone prescription The real reason SSRIs get prescribed when hormone replacement therapy should come first Why iodine is essential for breast health, estrogen metabolism, and thyroid function How oxalates from "superfoods" like matcha, spinach, and almonds accumulate in your ovaries, uterus, and kidneys Why both partners need hormone replacement therapy for a relationship to thrive How hormones control mitochondria, dopamine, norepinephrine, and every system in your body Thank you to our sponsors! - Qualia | If you want to take the guesswork out of maintaining high NAD+ levels as you age, go to www.qualialife.com/daveNAD to get clinically proven Qualia NAD+ backed by a 100 day money back guarantee and code DAVENAD at checkout gets you an extra 15% off. - Igniton | Try risk free at Igniton.com and use code DAVE at checkout for 15% off. Backed by a 30-day money back guarantee. - The One Device | Use code DAVE for $10 off at theonedevice.com/dave - Joymode | Go to tryjoymode.com/DAVE Or enter DAVE at checkout for 20% off.Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights inhealth, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living. New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. Keywords: Dr. Sarah Daccarett, Inner Balance, women's hormone therapy, bioidentical hormones, vaginal hormone delivery, estrogen deficiency, progesterone therapy, hormone replacement therapy, perimenopause, testosterone women, COMT genetics, FSH hormone, iodine deficiency, oxalates health, leaky gut hormones, women's longevity, biohacking, Dave Asprey, human performance, functional medicine, anti-aging Resources: • Visit Sarah's Website and use code ‘PODCASTDRSARAH': https://www.innerbalance.com/ • Get My 2026 Clean Nicotine Roadmap | Enroll for free at https://daveasprey.com/2026-clean-nicotine-roadmap/ • Dave Asprey's Latest News | Go to https://daveasprey.com/ to join Inside Track today. • Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/discount/dave15 • My Daily Supplements: SuppGrade Labs (15% Off) • Favorite Blue Light Blocking Glasses: TrueDark (15% Off) • Dave Asprey's BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com • Dave Asprey's New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated • Join My Substack (Live Access To Podcast Recordings): https://substack.daveasprey.com/ • Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com Timestamps: 0:00 – Trailer 1:15 – Introduction 2:43 – The Gender Gap in Hormone Care 5:14 – Why Women's Hormone Therapy Is Stuck in the 1960s 8:09 – Why Young Women Are Losing Their Hormones 9:33 – Toxins, Birth Control & Hormone Disruption 14:07 – How Fiber Steals Your Hormones 19:53 – Hormones, Libido & Brain Chemistry 32:13 – Pills, Patches & Why They Fail 36:54 – Why Vaginal Delivery Works Best 44:36 – Symptoms of Low Hormones 46:07 – Leaky Gut Is a Hormone Problem 47:38 – How Low Hormones Destroy Relationships 52:28 – Thyroid, Iodine & Sex Hormones 1:00:29 – Progesterone for Men 1:05:18 – Oxalates, Kidney Stones & Your Diet 1:11:13 – Where to Find Dr. Sarah See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.