Hot Flashes, Menopause Rage, Insomnia — And How to Advocate for Yourself in Perimenopause | Amy Alkon

Jun 22, 2025

Amy Alkon, an independent investigative science writer and author of 'Going Menopostal,' dives into the often overlooked issues surrounding perimenopause and menopause. She highlights the lack of training in gynecology for these stages and the importance of understanding hormonal changes. The conversation covers essential topics like the role of progesterone, the emotional challenges of symptoms like hot flashes and insomnia, and the need for women to advocate for their health by seeking specialists and understanding individual risks.

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INSIGHT

Lack of Proper Medical Training

Many gynecology departments lack properly trained doctors in perimenopause and menopause care.
Most doctors rely on practice standards and cannot diagnose perimenopause symptoms accurately.

INSIGHT

Hormonal Rollercoaster in Perimenopause

Perimenopause lasts 3 to 10 years with fluctuating estrogen and declining progesterone.
Estrogen spikes cause stress hormone release leading to symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disruption.

ANECDOTE

Menopause Rage Anecdote

Amy felt extreme anger during perimenopause, a stark change from her usual friendly nature.
She was ashamed and bewildered by urges that felt alien to her personality.

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In this episode, I talk to expert Amy Alkon about the critical issues surrounding women's health, particularly focusing on perimenopause and menopause.

We look at the shortcomings of the medical system in addressing these stages, and Amy shares insights from her book, "Going Menopostal," emphasising the importance of understanding hormonal changes and the role of progesterone in women's health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Lack of Training: Many gynecology departments lack adequately trained doctors in perimenopause
Perimenopause Symptoms: Perimenopause can last 3 to 10 years and presents various symptoms such as sleep disturbances and bleeding
Progesterone: Adequate progesterone is essential for counterbalancing oestrogen

Advocacy: Women are encouraged to advocate for their health by seeking specialists, understanding their individual risks

TIMESTAMPS AND KEY TOPICS:

00:00:14 - Perimenopause and menopause care.

00:09:09 - Glymphatic system and brain health.

00:21:05 - Importance of progesterone in health.

00:26:01 - Resistance training benefits for health.

00:39:00 - Women advocating for their health.

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ABOUT THE GUEST

Amy Alkon is an independent investigative science writer specializing in “applied science”—using scientific evidence to solve real-world problems.

Alkon critically evaluates and synthesizes research across disciplines and then translates it into everyday language, empowering regular people to make scientifically informed decisions

http://amyalkon.net

X: @amyalkon

ABOUT THE HOST

Angela Foster is an award winning Nutritionist, Health & Performance Coach, Speaker and Host of the High Performance Health podcast. A former Corporate lawyer turned industry leader in biohacking and health optimisation for women, Angela has been featured in various media including Huff Post, Runners world, The Health Optimisation Summit, BrainTap, The Women’s Biohacking Conference, Livestrong & Natural Health Magazine.

Angela is the creator of BioSyncing®️ a blueprint for ambitious entrepreneurial women to biohack their health so they can 10X how they show up in their business and their family without burning out.

The High Performance Health Podcast is a top rated global podcast. Each week, Angela brings you a new insight, biohack or high performance habit to help you unlock optimal health, longevity and higher performance. Hit the follow button to make sure you get notified each time Angela releases a new episode.

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