Episodes

  • Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Grit and Grace

    Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Grit and Grace
    Jul 9 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where we’re rewriting the narrative on what it means to thrive as a woman, at every stage. I’m your host, and today we’re shining a bold light on perimenopause—a life-changing transition that deserves open conversation and real answers. If you’re finding yourself navigating unpredictable periods, hot flashes, or just feeling out of sync with your body, you are not alone. Perimenopause is a journey millions of women take, yet it often gets pushed aside in mainstream discussions about health.

    Let’s get right to it. Perimenopause is the natural transition leading up to menopause, usually starting for women in their 40s but sometimes as early as the mid-30s. During this time, hormone levels shift, triggering a host of symptoms—irregular cycles, mood swings, night sweats, and challenges with sleep. Our bodies are strong, but this phase can test even the most resilient among us.

    To dive deeper, I’m joined today by Dr. Kirtly Jones, a women’s health expert from University of Utah Health, who will help us demystify this important life stage. Dr. Jones, welcome! First, can you tell us what exactly is happening hormonally during perimenopause? How do fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels impact not just our bodies, but also our emotional and mental health? Listeners want to know: are sudden mood shifts and brain fog normal, or cause for concern?

    Next, let’s get practical. Dr. Jones, what evidence-based treatments are available for managing symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness? Planned Parenthood advises that menopausal hormone therapy, or MHT, which replaces estrogen and progesterone, can be helpful for severe symptoms. But we know every woman’s journey is unique. In addition to hormonal therapy, can you walk us through non-hormonal options—like low-dose antidepressants or newer medicines like fezolinetant—that address hot flashes, and topical creams for vaginal health?

    Our community often asks, when should a woman consider seeking medical guidance during perimenopause, and what are some key questions she can ask her healthcare provider to advocate for herself? Are there lifestyle changes, like specific nutrition, exercise, or self-care routines, that truly make a difference in symptom relief?

    Before we wrap, let’s address the emotional toll. According to the Jean Hailes Foundation, societal expectations and gender norms can make women feel they should just “soldier on” and put themselves last. But perimenopause is the time to reject those outdated norms and champion self-prioritization. Dr. Jones, how do you encourage women to embrace this period as an opportunity for empowerment and self-discovery?

    Key takeaways for today: perimenopause is a normal, powerful part of the female experience, not something to fear or hide. There are a variety of effective treatments—both hormonal and non-hormonal—to help with symptoms. Most importantly, you have the right to demand individualized care, seek support, and rewrite your own story.

    Thank you, listeners, for tuning in and uplifting one another through knowledge. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Power: Reclaiming Your Health, Your Voice, Your Journey

    Perimenopause Power: Reclaiming Your Health, Your Voice, Your Journey
    Jul 7 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, where we empower women to take charge of their bodies, their choices, and their well-being. I’m your host, and today we’re going straight to a topic that’s often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and under-discussed: perimenopause—the transition that brings transformation, power, and sometimes a fair bit of uncertainty to millions of women.

    Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s late 30s or early 40s and brings with it a range of symptoms—from hot flashes and night sweats to mood swings, brain fog, and irregular periods. According to the experts at The Harper Clinic and Every Mother, these hormonal fluctuations are as unique as the women who experience them. For some, it’s a gentle transition; for others, it’s more like a roller coaster. Yet, the biggest hurdle many women face isn’t just the symptoms, but the invisible walls thrown up by a healthcare system that often fails to listen.

    I recently spoke with Dr. Kirtly Jones of the University of Utah, who reminds us that women’s health is intricate, shaped by physical, emotional, and even social dimensions. So, how do we reclaim this conversation? How do we ensure no one is left unheard or sidelined?

    First, we have to ask the right questions—of ourselves and our healthcare providers. Here are some I recommend bringing into your next appointment or even journaling on your own:
    - What symptoms am I experiencing, and how do they affect my daily life?
    - Are there any patterns or triggers I’ve noticed?
    - What are the latest and most effective treatment options, including HRT, non-hormonal therapies, and holistic approaches like acupuncture or yoga?
    - How do these options align with my personal health history, values, and preferences?
    - Are my moods and cognitive changes being taken seriously, or are they being brushed off as ‘just stress?’

    Many women, as reported by Blooming Leaf Counseling, experience what’s called “medical gaslighting,” where symptoms are minimized or attributed to something else entirely. It’s vital to document your journey. Track your symptoms, stand firm in your advocacy, and remember—you have the right to be heard.

    When it comes to treatment, science tells us there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, has been hugely beneficial for some women, alleviating hot flashes, sleep problems, and more. But it’s not suitable for everyone and should be discussed carefully with a provider. There are also non-hormonal medications, lifestyle changes, and complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga that have shown promise in managing everything from anxiety to chronic pain.

    And let’s talk about empowerment. According to the team at LynLake and Every Mother, embracing this phase with education and community makes all the difference. Perimenopause isn’t the end of youth or vitality—it’s a powerful reawakening, a time to center your own needs and well-being.

    Here are the key takeaways:
    - Listen to your body, trust what it’s telling you, and advocate relentlessly for your health.
    - Stay informed about all options—HRT, non-hormonal meds, and holistic therapies.
    - Track your symptoms and arm yourself with information for every medical conversation.
    - Seek support from communities, friends, and experts who respect your experience.

    Thank you for joining us on the Women’s Health Podcast today. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Real Talk, Real Empowerment

    Perimenopause Unfiltered: Real Talk, Real Empowerment
    Jul 6 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where real talk meets real empowerment. I’m your host, and today we’re diving straight into a topic that impacts millions, yet is rarely discussed openly—perimenopause. That stretch of time before menopause, when hormones can feel like they’re throwing your body and mind a bit off-balance. It can start in your late 30s or early 40s and last for several years, but no two women experience it quite the same. So why does it feel like nobody’s talking about it?

    Let’s get to the heart of it. Perimenopause is more than hot flashes or the occasional sleepless night. For many, it’s a rollercoaster of mood swings, irregular periods, brain fog, and changes in sex drive—sometimes all at once. According to the Harper Clinic, these symptoms are driven by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, and recognizing them is the first step toward taking back control. Knowledge is your superpower, and it’s time to use it.

    But here’s what’s frustrating: Women are often dismissed, told it’s just stress or “all in your head.” Blooming Leaf Counseling points out that medical gaslighting is still far too common in women’s health. That’s why self-advocacy is crucial. Track your symptoms, document your questions, and don’t be afraid to push for answers. Remember, this is your health—you deserve to be heard.

    To guide us through what helps and what you can ask your provider, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Kirtly Jones, a leading women’s health expert at University of Utah Health and host of the 7 Domains of Women’s Health show. I asked her: What are the telltale signs of perimenopause that women should watch for? She emphasized that while hot flashes and night sweats are common, women should also pay attention to subtle changes—like brain fog, mood shifts, and changes in sexual health. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re valid medical symptoms.

    Another vital question: What are the latest recommendations for managing perimenopause symptoms? Dr. Jones explained that treatment is highly individual. Hormone Replacement Therapy, now sometimes called Menopausal Hormone Therapy, can be very effective for many women but isn’t right for everyone. There are also non-hormonal medications, lifestyle strategies, and holistic approaches that can make a huge difference.

    I also asked, How can women advocate for themselves when their symptoms are dismissed? Her advice: Come prepared. Bring a detailed symptom diary. Ask specific questions about the risks and benefits of treatment options. And don’t leave the office until you feel satisfied with the information provided—it’s your right.

    Let’s break down the key takeaways. Perimenopause is a normal and significant life stage that every woman deserves to navigate with dignity and support. Your symptoms are real, and you have every right to seek help. Learn what’s happening to your body, track your health, and work in partnership with your healthcare team. With the right information and the confidence to advocate for yourself, perimenopause can be not just survived—but embraced as a time of growth and empowerment.

    Thank you for joining me today on the Women’s Health Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with everyone who could use a little extra support on their wellness journey. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 mins
  • Navigating Perimenopause: Your Body, Your Choices

    Navigating Perimenopause: Your Body, Your Choices
    Jul 6 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where we put the spotlight on real women, real stories, and real empowerment. I’m your host, and today we’re tackling a chapter in many women’s lives that’s still too often misunderstood and whispered about—perimenopause. Whether you’re in your late thirties, forties, or just want to prepare for what’s ahead, this conversation is for you.

    Let’s dive right in. Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, and it can feel like your body is changing the rules overnight. Hot flashes at work, night sweats that wake you up at 3 a.m., mood swings you swear weren’t there last month, and brain fog that makes you forget where you left your car keys—for some, it can be all of the above. But you’re not alone, and you’re not powerless.

    To break down the science and cut through the myths, I reached out to Dr. Lisa Anderson, an OB-GYN at UPMC Women’s Health. I started by asking her the question on everyone’s mind: What exactly happens during perimenopause? Dr. Anderson explained that it’s all about fluctuating hormone levels—primarily estrogen and progesterone. These shifts can last anywhere from a few months to eight years, with symptoms that come and go. So, if you’re wondering if it’s “all in your head”—it’s not. Your body is doing some heavy lifting behind the scenes.

    I asked Dr. Anderson what women can do if symptoms start disrupting daily life. She emphasized options. Hormone therapy—like estrogen alone or combined with progesterone—can be a game-changer for many, especially in easing hot flashes, improving sleep, and even protecting your bones. But it’s not for everyone, especially those with certain health histories. For women who prefer not to use hormones, or can’t, there are non-hormonal medicines and practical strategies, like regular exercise, tracking your triggers—think caffeine, alcohol, or hot rooms—and making sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D. Dr. Anderson stressed the importance of talking with your healthcare provider to tailor the approach to your unique story.

    One myth I couldn’t resist busting was around herbal supplements. While the shelves are full of powders and capsules promising miracle relief, Dr. Anderson reminded us that these aren’t regulated or tested like prescription medicines. So always check with your doctor before starting anything new.

    Before we wrap, here are the key takeaways: Perimenopause is a normal, natural stage—not a disease. You have choices, from hormone therapy to lifestyle tweaks, and there is no shame in seeking support. Your health and quality of life matter, and together, sharing our stories and expertise, we can take the mystery—and the stigma—out of perimenopause.

    Thanks for joining me on the Women’s Health Podcast. If today’s episode spoke to you, share it with a friend and remember: empowered women empower women. I’ll see you next time.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Your Power, Your Journey

    Perimenopause Unfiltered: Your Power, Your Journey
    Jul 2 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast—your space for real talk, practical tips, and powerful stories about the health journeys we all embark upon. I’m your host, and today, we’re diving into a stage that many women face but too few talk about openly: perimenopause.

    Perimenopause—the transition years leading up to menopause—can feel like riding a rollercoaster in the dark. One minute, you’re powering through your day; the next, a hot flash or wave of irritability sweeps in. In fact, studies show that anywhere from half to nearly 80 percent of women experience hot flashes during perimenopause. Sometimes it’s night sweats, other times it’s irregular or heavier periods. For some, these symptoms are mild. For others, they disrupt daily life and can bring a sense of unpredictability to what used to be routine.

    But here’s the empowering truth: understanding what’s happening can put the control back in your hands. Perimenopause isn’t just about physical changes. Emotional swings, brain fog, trouble concentrating, joint aches, and sleep problems can all show up. Low libido, vaginal dryness, even anxiety or depression, can be part of the picture. The list of symptoms is wide, and every woman’s experience is unique. So if you feel like your body is changing and something is just “off,” you’re not alone, and you aren’t imagining things.

    Today, I’m thrilled to bring you insights from Dr. Mary Claire Haver, renowned OB/GYN and women’s health expert. When I sat down with Dr. Haver, here’s what I wanted to know:

    - What exactly triggers perimenopause, and how can women tell the difference between it and menopause?
    - Which symptoms should women pay attention to, and when is it time to talk to a doctor?
    - How do lifestyle factors like nutrition, resistance training, and sleep impact symptoms?
    - What are current best practices for managing symptoms—both with and without hormone replacement therapy?
    - Are there misconceptions about perimenopause that you wish every woman could unlearn?
    - How can women advocate for themselves during doctor’s visits, especially when they feel their concerns are brushed aside?

    Dr. Haver stressed the value of tracking your symptoms and communicating them clearly to your healthcare provider. Sometimes, perimenopause symptoms can resemble other issues, from thyroid dysfunction to depression. So don’t be afraid to ask questions. You deserve answers.

    I want every woman listening to know: perimenopause isn’t a loss of vitality; it’s an opportunity to tune in and care for yourself in new, transformative ways. That might mean embracing strength training to protect bone health, rethinking sleep habits, or seeking new sources of community and support.

    Before we wrap up, let’s highlight three key takeaways:

    - Perimenopause can bring a wide range of symptoms, but knowledge is power—track what you’re experiencing and seek expert advice.
    - Lifestyle choices, including nutrition, exercise, and sleep, play a major role in how you feel during this phase.
    - You are not alone, and your symptoms are valid. Advocate for your health, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

    Thank you for joining me for this empowering conversation on the Women’s Health Podcast. If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend, and tune in next time for more stories and strategies to help you thrive through every stage of life.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    4 mins
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Your Health, Your Power

    Perimenopause Unfiltered: Your Health, Your Power
    Jun 29 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast. I'm your host, and today, we're going to talk about something that every woman deserves to understand and feel empowered about: perimenopause. Whether you're in your thirties, forties, or fifties, or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you.

    Perimenopause is more than just a medical transition—it's a journey that impacts every domain of our lives: physical, emotional, social, even intellectual health. It’s not just about hot flashes or irregular periods. For many women, perimenopause brings a tangle of symptoms—maybe you’ve noticed mood swings, fatigue that just doesn’t quit, brain fog, joint pain, or even changes in libido and vaginal dryness. The reality is, there are nearly 40 possible symptoms, and no two women will experience them the same way. That uniqueness is both challenging and powerful, because it means your story matters, and your needs are valid.

    Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Mary Rosser, gynecologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, who’s dedicated her career to women’s midlife health. Dr. Rosser, thank you for joining us.

    Dr. Rosser, a lot of women hear about perimenopause and think it’s just a handful of years before periods stop. Can you clarify what perimenopause really is and how it’s different from menopause itself?

    Let’s talk symptoms. What are the most common changes women report during perimenopause, and what should women watch for as “red flags” to bring up with their healthcare provider?

    Brain fog, anxiety, depression—these symptoms are not just in our heads. How do you help women differentiate between perimenopausal symptoms and other medical conditions, like thyroid disorders or even anemia?

    Treatment is a huge part of the conversation. Can you walk us through the best current options, whether that’s lifestyle changes, hormonal therapy, or alternative approaches?

    Finally, Dr. Rosser, so many women feel isolated or even ashamed to talk about their changing bodies at midlife. What would you say to those listening who need the confidence to advocate for themselves, especially when symptoms make daily life hard?

    Thank you, Dr. Rosser, for those empowering insights.

    Here’s what I want everyone to take away from today:

    - Perimenopause is normal, but your experience is unique. If something feels “off,” trust your intuition and seek support.
    - Symptoms can touch every part of your health—not just physically, but emotionally and socially. You deserve to be heard and helped.
    - There are evidence-based, individualized treatments out there. Don’t settle for suffering—partner with a provider who listens.
    - Most of all, perimenopause is not the end; it is a powerful new chapter. Let’s support each other, share our experiences, and demand better conversations about women’s health.

    If today’s episode resonated with you, please share it with the women in your life. You are not alone, and together, we can rewrite the narrative about perimenopause—one honest conversation at a time.

    Thanks for listening to the Women’s Health Podcast. Until next time, take care of yourself, and remember: your health is your power.

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    3 mins
  • Perimenopause Uncovered: Your Body, Your Journey, Your Voice

    Perimenopause Uncovered: Your Body, Your Journey, Your Voice
    Jun 25 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, the show where we empower you with real talk on what matters most to your health, right now. I’m your host, and today we’re diving straight into a topic that touches the lives of millions: perimenopause.

    Perimenopause isn’t just a medical milestone—it’s a pivotal transformation that can span several years, often beginning in your 40s but sometimes sneaking up even earlier. It’s the body’s way of preparing for menopause, and it can bring a rollercoaster of changes. Think irregular periods, intense hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disruption, brain fog, and more. These changes are real—and they deserve to be talked about, not endured in silence.

    To shed light on this transition, I’m thrilled to introduce Dr. Emily Carter, a leading gynecologist from Johns Hopkins Medicine. I asked Dr. Carter: What exactly is happening in the body during perimenopause? She explained it's all about fluctuating hormone levels—mainly estrogen and progesterone—which cause the symptoms so many of us experience. I followed up by asking: How can you distinguish perimenopause from other potential medical concerns? Dr. Carter stressed the importance of keeping track of your symptoms and having open conversations with your healthcare provider, since symptoms like mood changes or sleep issues can overlap with other conditions.

    Next, I wanted to talk practical solutions. I asked Dr. Carter: What are the most effective treatments for perimenopausal symptoms? She highlighted hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, as a proven option for many women. HRT can be given as patches, gels, sprays, or tablets, and is particularly good at easing hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. But, like all treatments, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Carter outlined that HRT isn’t suitable for everyone—particularly those with certain medical histories, such as stroke, heart attack, or blood clots. We also discussed alternatives, from non-hormonal medications to lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise, staying at a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress are all ways to help your body and mind through this transition.

    Finally, I asked Dr. Carter: What’s the single most important message you’d share with women experiencing perimenopause? She said, “Don’t go it alone, and don’t ignore your symptoms. You have options, and you deserve care tailored to you. Seek support, ask questions, and trust your instincts.”

    Before we wrap up, let’s highlight today’s key takeaways. Perimenopause is normal, but your experience is unique to you. There are safe, effective treatments—ranging from medical therapies to lifestyle strategies—that can help you feel your best. Most importantly, your voice matters, and there’s power in sharing your story and seeking support.

    Thanks for listening to today’s episode. You are not alone on this journey—so let’s keep breaking the silence, supporting one another, and owning our health. If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend and stay tuned for more empowering conversations right here on the Women’s Health Podcast.

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    3 mins
  • Cracking the Code: Navigating Perimenopause with Power

    Cracking the Code: Navigating Perimenopause with Power
    Jun 18 2025
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast. I’m your host, and today we’re opening up an honest, empowering conversation about perimenopause—a stage that impacts millions but is still shrouded in mystery, misunderstanding, and way too much silence. If you’re noticing shifts in your mood, energy, or body and wondering what’s going on, you’re not alone. Perimenopause isn’t just the lead-up to menopause—it’s a unique, often challenging chapter where your body sends you new signals, and it’s time we start decoding them together.

    Let’s get right into it. What exactly is perimenopause? It’s the transition phase before menopause, where hormone levels—particularly estrogen and progesterone—begin to fluctuate. This can start as early as your late 30s or as late as your 50s. Perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to several years. And the experience is different for everyone.

    I recently spoke with Dr. Mary Rosser, a gynecologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, who’s seen firsthand the range of symptoms women go through. Dr. Rosser explained that perimenopause can bring up to 40 different possible symptoms: irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes, brain fog, joint pain, and beyond. You might also notice changes in libido, vaginal dryness, and fatigue. What’s important to remember, she says, is that your set of symptoms may look nothing like your best friend’s—or even your sister’s. And that’s normal.

    During our conversation, I asked Dr. Rosser some key questions that every woman deserves answers to:

    What are the earliest signs that signal perimenopause has started?
    How can women distinguish between what’s typical for perimenopause and symptoms that might signal another health issue?
    What are the best options for managing challenging symptoms like mood swings, brain fog, or sleep problems?
    When should someone reach out to a healthcare provider, and what kind of support should they expect?
    Are there lifestyle changes, like nutrition or exercise, that really make a difference during this stage?
    And finally, what can women do to advocate for themselves if their symptoms aren’t taken seriously?

    Dr. Rosser emphasized the crucial point: if you feel “off,” if your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, don’t just brush it off or tough it out. Perimenopause symptoms can overlap with conditions like thyroid disorders, anemia, or depression. So reaching out to a healthcare provider isn’t just smart, it’s self-care.

    Here are my key takeaways. First, every woman’s perimenopause is different, and every experience is valid. Second, you deserve to be heard, supported, and empowered with real information, whether you’re managing mild symptoms or feeling totally overwhelmed. Third, connecting with an expert—like Dr. Rosser or your own provider—can help you rule out other medical concerns and find treatment that works for you.

    So if you’re navigating perimenopause, remember: you have the right to information, compassion, and control over your health. And as always, this community is here to lift you up. Thanks for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast. Until next time, stay empowered.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 mins