• Perimenopause Power: Navigating the Change with Grace and Grit
    Nov 26 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, where we talk about real health, real stories, and real empowerment. I'm your host, and today we're diving into perimenopause, that often misunderstood phase that can feel like a rollercoaster but is actually a powerful transition. If you're in your 40s or early 50s, or even if you're just curious, this is for you.

    Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, when your body starts shifting hormones. It can bring hot flashes, mood swings, sleep issues, and even brain fog. But here's the thing: you're not alone, and you're not broken. According to the North American Menopause Society, perimenopause is a natural part of life, not an illness. And with the right tools, you can navigate it with confidence.

    Let's talk about what actually helps. Dr. Richard Levine from Premier OBGYN of Ridgewood says that hormone replacement therapy, now called menopausal hormone therapy, can be a game-changer for many women. It can ease hot flashes, night sweats, and even vaginal dryness. But it's not for everyone, and that's okay. There are non-hormonal options too, like certain antidepressants or blood pressure medications, which can help manage symptoms.

    Lifestyle matters just as much. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques like yoga or meditation can make a big difference. The Mayo Clinic recommends tracking your symptoms in a journal. Write down when hot flashes happen, what you were doing, and how you felt. This helps you spot patterns and gives your doctor real data to work with.

    Self-advocacy is key. Too many women feel dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare providers. If that's you, know that your voice matters. Bring your symptom journal to appointments, ask questions, and don't be afraid to seek a second opinion. There are also online communities and support groups where women share their experiences and advice. Places like the North American Menopause Society and Mayo Clinic offer reliable resources.

    Empowerment also means understanding your options. Menopausal hormone therapy isn't the only path. Some women find relief with lifestyle changes, others with medication, and many use a mix of both. The important thing is to make informed choices that fit your life.

    So what are the key takeaways? Perimenopause is normal, and you have power over how you manage it. Track your symptoms, talk to your doctor, and don't hesitate to advocate for yourself. Surround yourself with support, whether it's friends, family, or online communities. And remember, this is your journey, and you're not alone.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women's Health Podcast. If you found this helpful, please subscribe for more empowering conversations. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Power: Navigating the Journey with Grace and Grit
    Nov 24 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome back to the Women's Health Podcast, where we break the silence and celebrate women's empowerment through every stage. Today, we're talking about perimenopause – that middle ground between fertility and menopause, often shrouded in mystery yet filled with transformative potential.

    Most listeners have heard the word "menopause," but perimenopause is where the journey actually begins. It’s not a sudden switch but a transition, lasting on average four to eight years, that can start as early as your late 30s or as late as your 50s. Symptoms might come and go, but the changes are real: irregular periods, mood swings, sleep disruption, hot flashes, brain fog – all signs your hormones are shifting gears.

    It’s time to let go of fear and reclaim agency. I recently spoke with Dr. Ronni Farris, a board-certified OB-GYN, about what’s actually happening in a woman’s body during perimenopause. She explained hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably, leading to physical and emotional changes, but this isn’t just a story of discomfort; it’s one of growth and empowerment. Dr. Farris emphasized the importance of education, encouraging women to tune into their bodies, journal symptoms, and advocate for themselves at every healthcare visit.

    My interview with Dr. Farris also explored what treatments and strategies are truly empowering. Hormone Replacement Therapy, now called Menopausal Hormone Therapy, remains one of the most effective options for many, alleviating night sweats, hot flashes, and even protecting bone health. But it’s not for everyone, so it’s vital to work with a provider who personalizes care. Dr. Farris discussed alternatives like SSRIs for mood support, and holistic modalities, such as nutritional changes, yoga, and stress management, which can make a substantial difference.

    A key theme in our conversation was self-advocacy. Far too often, women’s concerns in perimenopause are minimized or dismissed. The North American Menopause Society and resources from Mayo Clinic empower women with accurate information and tools. Dr. Farris recommends keeping a symptom journal, noting how often symptoms like hot flashes occur, and discussing triggers and impacts with your care provider. This isn’t just about managing discomfort; it’s about claiming your expertise in your own health experience.

    Let’s talk about daily empowerment. Listeners, share with your community – online forums, local support groups, and social media networks exist to foster connection and validation. Dr. Farris echoed that talking openly about perimenopause not only smashes stereotypes but also encourages others to embrace this stage proudly.

    Here are the key takeaways from today’s episode. First: perimenopause is natural; it’s not an illness but a stage of life that every woman can navigate with power. Second: education is the foundation of empowerment. Know your options, from hormone therapy to lifestyle changes, and demand compassionate care. Third: advocate for yourself. Speak up, track your symptoms, and find providers who listen. Finally: embrace community. Lean into the strength of others and break the silence.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast, where women support women and every story matters. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you can join us next time as we continue breaking barriers in women’s health. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Reclaiming Your Power: Navigating Perimenopause with Confidence
    Nov 24 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome back to Women’s Health Podcast. Today, we’re getting right to the heart of a topic that impacts millions of women — perimenopause. Maybe you’re experiencing unpredictable moods, intense night sweats, or feeling like your body just isn’t following its old routine. Perimenopause isn’t just another phase; it’s a powerful transition in a woman’s life, and understanding it is key to reclaiming control and confidence.

    Perimenopause marks the shift leading up to menopause, often starting in your 40s but sometimes earlier. Your menstrual cycles may become irregular, hot flashes and sleep disruptions creep in, and mood swings, brain fog, and even changes in libido start to show up. According to Mayo Clinic and The Menopause Society, these symptoms are tied to dropping estrogen levels and the changing rhythms of your hormones.

    Today, I’m joined by Dr. Angela Miller, gynecologist at Franciscan Health, who’s dedicated her career to helping women navigate this transition. Dr. Miller, thank you for joining us. First, what exactly differentiates perimenopause from menopause? Where does diagnosis begin, and what are the most overlooked symptoms women should watch for?

    Listeners want to hear about their options, so let’s get into symptom management. Dr. Miller, what are the most effective treatments you recommend for hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep problems? Hormone therapy and non-hormonal options both get a lot of attention — could you walk us through why a woman might choose one over the other, and what are the real risks and benefits?

    Many women ask about natural solutions. What role do lifestyle changes, exercise, and complementary therapies like yoga or meditation play in easing perimenopausal symptoms? Can dietary modifications or supplements really make a difference? And how important is calcium and vitamin D for bone health during this phase?

    Sexual health is another often sensitive area. How do you guide women experiencing vaginal dryness or discomfort during intimacy? Are vaginal estrogen or lubricants safe and effective?

    For those worried about emotional health, what’s your advice for managing anxiety or depression during perimenopause? How can therapy or support groups empower women to reclaim their wellbeing?

    Finally, what are the key questions every woman should ask her doctor about perimenopause, and how can women advocate for better care and understanding — whether at home, work, or in their communities?

    Let’s break down some practical takeaways. Perimenopause can be unpredictable, but knowledge is power. Hormone therapy remains the most effective symptom relief for many, yet non-hormonal medications, exercise, and diet also play major roles. Consistent sleep routines and stress reduction techniques, from mindfulness to grounding, can help you feel more in control. Most importantly — you’re not alone, and every woman deserves support and resources through this powerful transition.

    Thank you for tuning in and joining this empowering conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe to Women’s Health Podcast for more expert advice and stories. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Unveiled: Navigating the Change with Clarity and Confidence
    Nov 19 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast. Today we’re talking openly about perimenopause—a stage that’s as misunderstood as it is universal. Whether you’re noticing subtle changes or feeling overwhelmed by new symptoms, it’s time for empowering, practical information. Let’s get right to it.

    Perimenopause is the natural transition leading up to menopause, often beginning in your 40s but sometimes earlier. During this time, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, making periods irregular and sparking symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and trouble sleeping. According to the Mayo Clinic, this phase can last anywhere from a few months to over four years for some women. The biggest myth? That perimenopause means the end of vibrancy or sexual wellness. The real story is far more nuanced and hopeful.

    To shed light on these changes, I recently spoke with Dr. Sara Patil, a gynecologist at UCLA Health. Our conversation focused on what actually helps women thrive during perimenopause. I asked Dr. Patil: What are the most common early symptoms, and how can women differentiate perimenopause from other health concerns? She explained that hot flashes, irregular periods, and sleep issues are classic signs, but “the emotional symptoms—anxiety, irritability, brain fog—are just as real and deserve attention.” We also discussed the importance of tracking patterns and advocating for your own care; don’t accept dismissal or vague answers from healthcare providers.

    Next, I asked: What are today’s most effective treatments? Hormone therapy remains the gold standard for moderate to severe symptoms, but it isn’t right for everyone. Dr. Patil highlighted non-hormonal options like fezolinetant for hot flashes, certain antidepressants for mood or sleep, and even cognitive behavioral therapy. Topical estrogen helps with vaginal dryness and discomfort, while practical steps such as exercise, stress management, and a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help safeguard bones and support emotional well-being.

    I wanted to empower listeners with options, so I pressed further: What role do alternative remedies—like acupuncture, herbal supplements, or mindfulness—play? She responded that while evidence is still growing, practices like yoga and mindfulness can be great tools for stress reduction, and some women report benefits from herbal approaches, but professional guidance is vital to avoid interactions or unwanted side effects.

    An essential point Dr. Patil emphasized: every woman’s journey through perimenopause is unique. There’s no single “right” way to navigate this phase. Creating a personalized toolkit with your healthcare provider—one that may include medical, lifestyle, and emotional supports—makes all the difference. Don’t go it alone.

    Here are some key takeaways. Track your symptoms and advocate for clear, actionable answers from your provider. Treatments range from hormone therapy and non-hormonal medications to exercise, diet, and mindfulness practices. There’s no shame in exploring what works for you; women deserve to thrive through every phase of life.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast. If you found this episode insightful or empowering, please subscribe and share it with a friend—because no woman should navigate perimenopause without support and accurate information. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Power: Navigating the Change with Dr. Stephanie Gefroh
    Nov 17 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast. Today, we’re diving straight into perimenopause—a phase in every woman’s life that’s powerful, transformative, and so often misunderstood. I’m your host, and if you’re in your 40s, maybe late 30s, or just unsure about the changes happening in your body, this episode is absolutely for you.

    Perimenopause is more than just a warm-up act for menopause. The experts like Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, host of the Menopause: Unmuted podcast, remind us that perimenopause can bring some serious shifts—most women experience irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and even changes in sexual health and energy. If you’ve ever felt like your body is rewriting all the rules, you are not alone. Hundreds of thousands of women each year find themselves in this stage, often without enough guidance or support.

    That’s why I’m thrilled to welcome our guest today, Dr. Stephanie Gefroh, from Essentia Health’s “Dare to Ask” podcast, particularly the episode titled "In My Perimenopause Era." Dr. Gefroh has made it her mission to meet women exactly where they’re at—with real talk about hormone changes, mental and emotional health, and what we can do to take control of our well-being.

    Dr. Gefroh, I want to start with the biggest misconception. So many women feel blindsided by perimenopause. Why do you think we’re still not talking about this stage enough?

    Let’s get practical. For a listener who’s starting to notice symptoms—say, unpredictable cycles, night sweats, moodiness—what’s the first step she should take?

    There’s a lot of shame and secrecy around changes in sexual health and libido. How do you empower your patients to advocate for themselves and their pleasure during this time?

    We also know perimenopause can bring mental health challenges—mood swings, anxiety, sometimes depression. What tools do you recommend for women to help manage their mental health during this transition?

    Heart and bone health risks go up after menopause, but perimenopause is a critical window. What should listeners be thinking about in terms of nutrition, exercise, and preventive screening?

    Some experts, like Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, talk about hormone therapy and non-hormonal options. How do you help women decide what’s best for them?

    And finally, what positive changes have you seen in your patients as they embrace this new chapter? What message do you want women to carry with them?

    As we wrap up, it’s clear that perimenopause is not just something to “get through.” It’s a chance to reclaim your voice, look after your body in new ways, and embrace your power at midlife. Remember, no question is off limits, and no experience is too small to matter. Start by talking with your healthcare provider, but also talk to your friends, your sisters, anyone you trust. This community is here for you.

    Thanks for tuning in to the Women's Health Podcast. If you found value in today’s conversation, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Thriving in Transition: Your Perimenopause Survival Kit
    Nov 16 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome back to the Women’s Health Podcast, where every episode is dedicated to empowering you with knowledge for every chapter of your life. Today, we’re diving straight into a topic at the heart of women’s health and transformation: perimenopause. For many, it’s a season that’s shrouded in mystery and misinformation, yet nearly half the global population will experience it. Let’s bring it into the open and center women’s voices in the conversation.

    Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s 40s, sometimes even earlier. It marks the transition toward menopause, and while the experiences are unique and personal, many common symptoms emerge — irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and changes in sleep or libido. These changes aren’t just medical—they affect your relationships, your work, your self-confidence, and your sense of well-being.

    Today, I’m so pleased to welcome Dr. Samantha Dunham from NYU’s Center for Midlife Health and Menopause. She’s a leading expert in menopause care—and a fierce advocate for women taking charge of their health journeys. Let’s get right to our interview.

    Dr. Dunham, thank you for joining us. First question—what exactly is perimenopause, and how can women recognize they’re experiencing it?

    Many listeners want to know: the physical symptoms get a lot of attention, but what about the emotional side? Can perimenopause impact mood, energy, or mental health—and how can women seek help?

    There’s a growing conversation about hormone therapy. What do women need to know in 2025? Who is it for, and what are the potential risks and benefits?

    What promising alternatives to hormones exist today for symptoms like hot flashes or sleep disruption? There’s been a lot of buzz about newer medications like fezolinetant and non-hormonal approaches—can you shed light on those options?

    How much do lifestyle choices—like diet, exercise, and stress management—impact perimenopausal symptoms? Are there specific recommendations for movement, nutrition, or mindfulness that can help?

    Sexual health is often overlooked in this chapter. How does perimenopause affect intimacy and vaginal health, and what solutions can restore comfort and confidence?

    Those are some of our top questions—thank you, Dr. Dunham, for sharing your expertise.

    Listeners, let’s recap some key takeaways from today’s conversation. First, perimenopause is a powerful biological process, and understanding it is an act of self-empowerment. Many options exist—from hormone therapy to new medicines like fezolinetant, to lifestyle shifts that make a real difference. Communication with your healthcare provider is vital; you deserve to be heard and supported. Don’t wait until symptoms interfere with your life—proactive conversations can lead to tailored solutions.

    Sexual health and self-image matter too—intimacy is part of a vibrant life at every age, and there are tools to restore comfort. Remember, every woman’s experience is valid, and sharing your story helps break down barriers and silence.

    That’s all for today’s Women’s Health Podcast. Thank you for taking the time to invest in yourself and your wellness. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with a friend. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Reclaiming the Conversation at Every Stage
    Nov 15 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where real conversations empower women through every stage of life. I’m your host, and today we’re diving into a topic heard in whispers or brushed off for far too long: perimenopause. Around the world, women step into this transition, often unprepared, sometimes feeling invisible, but always deserving to be heard and supported. Let’s change the narrative together—starting right now.

    Perimenopause can begin as early as your late thirties or extend well into your fifties. Hot flashes, anxiety, sleep issues, mental fog, and changes to your cycle—these are just a few signs. But here’s the myth-busting truth: perimenopause is not an ending. It’s a evolution of your body’s rhythm, and the more we talk about it, the more power we reclaim. According to Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, a leader in women’s health and voice behind the ‘Menopause: Unmuted’ podcast, the most empowering thing we can do is start the conversation—openly, honestly, and together.

    Today, we welcome Dr. Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health. Dr. White, I’d love to hear from you: how do you define perimenopause, and why do symptoms vary so much from one woman to another? What signs signal to listeners that they’re entering perimenopause, and how can they distinguish these changes from ordinary stress or aging? When should someone consider consulting a doctor, and why does early support matter?

    I’m also curious, Dr. White, about support strategies. What holistic approaches—think nutrition, movement, or mindfulness—really make a difference? And let’s talk mental health. So many women voice changes in mood or confidence during perimenopause. What are concrete steps our listeners can take to guard their well-being and self-image through this transition?

    A crucial question on many listeners’ minds: what treatment options are available, from hormone therapy to natural remedies, and what do women need to know about safety and effectiveness? Finally, what’s the one message you wish every woman knew as she steps into perimenopause?

    As we wrap up, let’s reflect on some key takeaways. Perimenopause is a perfectly natural part of life’s cycle—it’s not something to endure in silence. Recognizing symptoms early allows for proactive choices, whether that’s seeking medical advice, connecting with support groups, or adjusting diet and exercise in ways that nourish both body and mind. Knowledge really is power. Remember: self-advocacy matters, and your experience is valid.

    Thank you for tuning in today and sharing this time for women’s health and empowerment. If you found value in this episode, subscribe so you never miss a chance to nurture your well-being. Let’s keep these conversations going, for ourselves and for the women who walk this path next.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Navigating The Change with Dr. Shamsah Amersi
    Nov 14 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast! Today, we’re diving straight into a life transition every woman deserves to understand: perimenopause. I’m your host, and whether you’re in your thirties hearing the first whisper of changes, or your late forties and experiencing the full spectrum of symptoms, this episode is for you.

    Perimenopause marks the years leading up to menopause, often beginning in the mid-40s but sometimes as early as the late thirties. What does it feel like? Hot flashes that come out of nowhere, mood swings that seem impossible to predict, changes in cycle, night sweats, and even unexpected brain fog. So many of us wonder, “Is this normal?” The answer: yes, it’s all part of the process. Knowledge is power, and today, we empower each other.

    To unpack perimenopause, I recently sat down with Dr. Shamsah Amersi, an expert in women’s health. I asked her, “What are the most common symptoms women should watch for?” She shared that besides hot flashes and sleep issues, mental shifts—like anxiety and difficulty focusing—are just as much a part of the picture as physical ones.

    We talked about management, too. Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, often comes up in conversations, but it’s not the only solution. Dr. Amersi explained the importance of tailoring care to each woman: some opt for bioidentical HRT, others find relief with healthy eating, regular exercise such as yoga or strength training, improved sleep routines, or therapy. For some, antidepressants like SSRIs can help with mood symptoms. The key is always individualized care—a truly empowered approach.

    I then asked Dr. Amersi, “How do women advocate for themselves in a healthcare setting?” She emphasized self-advocacy, recommending women educate themselves, track their symptoms, and bring up concerns with their providers directly. Unfortunately, too many women encounter medical gaslighting, where symptoms are minimized or dismissed. Dr. Amersi encouraged listeners to trust their intuition, seek second opinions, and use community resources—like support groups and online forums—to find validation and practical advice.

    One listener, Sarah from Chicago, wrote in asking, “How can I manage stress during perimenopause?” Dr. Amersi said mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can all help. Even short daily moments of reflection can reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Remember, lifestyle changes are as important as medical ones, and even small steps—walking outside for 20 minutes, joining a local yoga class, or getting a friend to talk through your experience with—can make a lasting difference.

    Let’s recap the key takeaways. Perimenopause is natural, common, and different for everyone. The best management blends personalized medical advice with lifestyle changes—think balanced eating, regular activity, and good sleep hygiene. Self-advocacy is essential; be informed, trust your experience, and ask questions until you have the answers you need. And you’re never alone—reach out to your community, and keep this conversation going.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women's Health Podcast. We’re here to empower, inform, and support you through every stage of womanhood. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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    3 mins