Hello Hormones with Dr. Carrie Jones

Progesterone gets a lot of hype as the “calming, soothing” hormone, but what if you’re the woman who feels awful on it? Bloating, acne, breast tenderness, headaches, even heartburn or digestive drama can make progesterone feel like the opposite of magical. In this episode of Hello Hormones, I’m unpacking the side of progesterone nobody talks about: the women who hate it. I explain why these side effects happen and how long they might last. Most importantly, I walk you through 10 practical options to discuss with your practitioner, from adjusting your dose or delivery method, to compounding, to alternatives like IUDs or topical approaches. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I just have to put up with this?” The answer is no. You do have options, and this episode gives you the clarity to explore them with confidence.   What's Discussed: (00:00) Hate your progesterone? Why it’s not just you (06:37) The first questions to ask before you give up (08:04) Pills, vaginal, IUDs… which route makes the difference? (16:26) Beyond Prometrium: unexpected alternatives women actually love (26:06) The liver connection + what to check if nothing is working   Thank You To Our Sponsor: Lab Test Checklist: If you’re in perimenopause or menopause and sick of hearing “your labs look normal” when you know you don’t feel normal, I made this for you. My free Lab Test Checklist walks you through the exact tests that actually matter for your hormones, metabolism, and overall health. Grab it now at drcarriejones.com/learn. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:  Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones  TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones ==========   Disclaimer: Information provided on this channel is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided on this channel for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided on this channel and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Carrie Jones. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.  

Jenn Pike, a functional nutritionist and women's health expert, takes us on a journey through perimenopause, reshaping its narrative from doom to empowerment. She challenges the fear propagated by social media, urging women to embrace this transformative phase. Key topics include ditching perfectionism, redefining your 40s as the most liberating decade, and practical strategies for self-care. Jenn also emphasizes the importance of personalized fitness routines and daily habits that support resilience, leaving listeners hopeful about what lies ahead.

Thinking about hormone therapy? Or maybe you’re already on it and feeling more confused than ever? You’re not alone. The amount of misinformation out there is wild, and these are 7 myths I’ve heard just this week from patients, DMs, and comments. In this episode of Hello Hormones, I unpack the most common hormone therapy myths that leave women second-guessing themselves. From whether you have to wait 12 months without a period, to whether herbs like black cohosh are “the same thing” as estrogen, I set the record straight. I also dig into the myths around age (too young, too old), vaginal versus systemic estrogen, and why your dose doesn’t always stay the same. Whether you’re in perimenopause or postmenopause, these myth-busting insights keep you informed, confident, and ready to have a real conversation with your practitioner. What's Discussed:   00:02 – Why the 12-month waiting rule isn’t always true 04:11 – Pregnancy in perimenopause and birth control realities 05:49 – Herbs versus hormones, what they can and can’t do 08:22 – The truth about dosing, adjustments, and delivery methods 10:47 – Why vaginal estrogen is different from systemic estrogen 12:51 – How perimenopause can start before 50 16:22 – Why starting HRT at 62 isn’t “too late”   Thank You To Our Sponsor: Timeline Nutrition: If you’re feeling tired, foggy, or drained during perimenopause, Timeline’s Mitopure Gummies support your energy from the inside out. Powered by clinically proven Urolithin A, they help your cells clean out damaged mitochondria and build new, stronger ones. If you’d like to give it a try, visit timeline.com/drcarrie and get 20% off. NuEthix: You know I’m picky about supplements, right? NuEthix is one I actually use because the formulas are clean, tested, and they work. Everything’s vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. Grab yours at NuEthix.com with code DRJONES for 10% off. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:    Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones   TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones ==========   Disclaimer: Information provided on this channel is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided on this channel for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided on this channel and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Carrie Jones. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.

What if your gut health holds the key to unlocking better hormone balance and overcoming menopause symptoms? In this episode, I’m joined by Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner and expert in functional medicine, as we dive deep into the powerful connection between gut health and hormonal balance, especially during perimenopause and menopause. We explore how common gut issues like bloating, weight loss resistance, and digestive discomfort could actually be signs of hormonal imbalance, a connection that is often overlooked by doctors. We also break down how hormonal changes impact digestion and why optimizing gut health could be the key to feeling better during this transformative life stage. Throughout this episode, we share practical tips and science-backed insights on how to manage stress, improve your diet, and prioritize gut health to support hormonal balance and boost your overall well-being. If you’re ready to discover how gut health plays a crucial role in your hormonal journey, this episode is for you. Let’s get started! Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, functional medicine expert, and founder of Everyday Wellness Podcast. She helps women optimize health through hormone balance, gut health, and nutrition. Cynthia is also the author of Intermittent Fasting Transformation and a sought-after speaker. What's Discussed:   02:00 - How Hormonal Changes Impact Digestion During Perimenopause 04:30 - Common Gut Issues: Bloating, Weight Loss Resistance, and More 08:00 - Why Doctors Often Overlook the Gut-Hormone Connection 12:00 - The Role of Estrogen and Gut Health in Menopause Symptoms 15:30 - Practical Tips for Improving Gut Health During Menopause 18:00 - Stress Management and Diet for Gut Health Optimization 21:00 - Why Prioritizing Gut Health is Key to Overall Well-Being Thank You To Our Sponsor: Timeline Nutrition: If you’re feeling tired, foggy, or drained during perimenopause, Timeline’s Mitopure Gummies support your energy from the inside out. Powered by clinically proven Urolithin A, they help your cells clean out damaged mitochondria and build new, stronger ones. If you’d like to give it a try, visit timeline.com/drcarrie and get 20% off. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:    Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones   TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones    Cynthia Thurlow: Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/ Book: Intermittent Fasting Transformation  Instagram: @cynthia_thurlow_ Podcast: Everyday Wellness  Disclaimer: Information provided on this channel is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided on this channel for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided on this channel and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Carrie Jones. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.  

Hormone therapy not working for you? You’re not alone. If you’re on HRT and struggling with side effects, wondering why your bestie feels amazing while you don’t, let’s break it down.  In this episode of Hello Hormones, I’m unpacking 5 strategies to finally help you love your hormone therapy, including what to do if progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, or even DHEA just aren’t working for you. We’ll also get real about the differences between bioidentical vs synthetic hormones and why that matters. Whether you’re in the wild rollercoaster of perimenopause or the depleted calm of postmenopause, dialing in HRT isn’t always straightforward. But the good news? You have options: dose, route, compounded hormones, and more. These clinical pearls will help you ask the right questions so you can feel like yourself again. What's Discussed: Why the starting hormone matters more than you think (progesterone first? testosterone first? estradiol only?) Low vs. high hormone dose, and what sensitive dosing looks like if you react easily to meds or supplements Best hormone therapy routes: capsule, patch, gel, cream, vaginal, injection (plus why compounding pharmacies can save the day) Location, location, location: where to apply estrogen cream (yes, absorption depends on it!) Bioidentical vs synthetic hormones: who thrives on which, and how to figure it out with your prescribing practitioner Thank You To Our Sponsor: Timeline Nutrition: If you’re feeling tired, foggy, or drained during perimenopause, Timeline’s Mitopure Gummies support your energy from the inside out. Powered by clinically proven Urolithin A, they help your cells clean out damaged mitochondria and build new, stronger ones. If you’d like to give it a try, visit timeline.com/drcarrie and get 20% off. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:    Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones   TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones ==========   Disclaimer: Information provided on this channel is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided on this channel for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided on this channel and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Carrie Jones. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.  

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Amie Hornaman, known as The Thyroid Fixer, shares her inspiring journey through a uterine cancer diagnosis while being a hormone expert. She emphasizes the need for crucial health screenings for women over 40, the vital role of sleep in overall well-being, and the red flags often dismissed as aging. Dr. Hornaman candidly discusses hormone replacement therapy, estrogen detox, and the impact of genetics on hormone health, empowering listeners to take control of their health and make informed choices.

Feeling overwhelmed by your supplement stash? Discover the truth behind seven popular supplements that may not be doing you any favors, from rancid fish oil to synthetic vitamins. Learn why high-dose biotin can mess with lab results and why some herbal formulas might be just dried leaves. Get tips on ensuring the quality and efficacy of the products you choose, highlighting the importance of third-party testing. This insightful discussion will empower you to sift through the supplement minefield and make informed choices.

What if the leaks, the pain, and the feeling that something just isn't right “down there” aren’t a normal part of life? In this vital episode, I'm joined by the incredible Dr. Sara Reardon, the Vagina Whisperer, to pull back the curtain on our pelvic health.    We challenge the biggest myths, like the idea that Kegels are a cure-all, and get to the root of symptoms that so many women quietly endure. Dr. Sara reveals how perimenopause, scar tissue, and even a C-section can impact your pelvic floor, offering a roadmap for proactive care.    We demystifies what a physical therapy session is actually like and shares simple, actionable tips that empower you to take back control of your body and find true, lasting relief.   Dr. Sara Reardon, also known as "the Vagina Whisperer," is a doctor of physical therapy with 18 years of experience as a board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist. She is also the author of "Floored: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage."    What's Discussed: (00:00) Why We Need to Talk About Vaginal Health: Introducing Dr. Sara Reardon, The Vagina Whisperer (01:29) Busting Vaginal Myths: Why Kegels Aren’t Always the Answer and How Pelvic Needs Shift Through Life (03:08) Is Your Pelvic Floor Healthy? Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help (12:53) Pelvic Floor Health Through Perimenopause and Menopause: Hormones, Estrogen, and Proactive Care (21:01) Bladder Habits and Urge Myths: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and How to Retrain Your Body (25:53) Inside a Pelvic Floor PT Session: What Actually Happens and Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters (36:39) How Your Pelvic Floor Connects to Everything: Back Pain, Hip Tightness, Breathing, and Scars (42:34) Rebuilding Strength and Confidence After 40: Prolapse, Exercise, and Real-Life Stories (50:30) Where to Start: Dr. Sara’s Programs, Her Book Floored, and How to Begin Your Healing Journey Thank You To Our Sponsor: Timeline Nutrition: If you’re feeling tired, foggy, or drained during perimenopause, Timeline’s Mitopure Gummies support your energy from the inside out. Powered by clinically proven Urolithin A, they help your cells clean out damaged mitochondria and build new, stronger ones. If you’d like to give it a try, visit timeline.com/drcarrie  and get 20% off. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:    Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones   TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones    Dr. Sara Reardon (The Vagina Whisperer): Instagram: @the.vagina.whisperer TikTok: @thevagwhisperer Website: thevaginawhisperer.com   ==========   Disclaimer: Information provided on this channel is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided on this channel for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided on this channel and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Carrie Jones. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.

Navigating your 40s? Discover why common symptoms like fatigue and weight gain might need more than just aging to explain them. Learn about the essential lab tests every woman should consider, including thyroid panels, hidden iron issues, and B12 deficiencies. Understand the significance of vitamin D and insulin testing in managing your health. This insightful discussion reveals how to take charge of your well-being and find the answers your body has been hinting at.

You’re not in the mood. You’re not even in the mood for life. The spark is gone, your libido left the chat, and if one more person tells you to “just relax” or “get out of your head,” you might actually scream. In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Nan Wise, neuroscientist, sex therapist, and author of Why Good Sex Matters, to talk about something no one’s saying out loud: what happens when pleasure disappears. This isn’t just about sex. It’s about the loss of joy, connection, curiosity, and vitality that so many women feel in perimenopause and beyond. We talk about the real reasons your body shuts down, why pleasure is a biological need, and how stress, trauma, and social media are hijacking your brain chemistry. And, most importantly, we get into what you can actually do about it. Here’s what we dive into: What “rage at your partner’s touch” is really telling you Why pleasure plummets in midlife, and how to bring it back The difference between feeling blah and actual anhedonia What “healthy hedonism” means and how to reclaim it How dopamine, play, and connection shape your mood and sex drive The orgasm-a-day challenge (yes, it’s a thing) How your brain is your best pharmacy, and how to activate it What to do when you feel numb, depleted, and disconnected Why good sex has nothing to do with performance and everything to do with presence This episode is about reconnecting with yourself in a world that’s constantly pulling you away. Whether you’re partnered or not, sexual or not, hormonal or not, you deserve to feel alive. And Dr. Nan is here to help you find your way back. Thank You To Our Sponsor: Timeline Nutrition: If you’re feeling tired, foggy, or drained during perimenopause, Timeline’s Mitopure Gummies support your energy from the inside out. Powered by clinically proven Urolithin A, they help your cells clean out damaged mitochondria and build new, stronger ones. If you’d like to give it a try, visit timeline.com/drcarrie and get 20% off. ✍️ FREE GUIDES:   Hormones 101 Cheat Sheet:  https://drcarriejones.kit.com/hormones101  The Perimenopause & Menopause Labs Test Checklist: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/labtestchecklist The Symptoms of The Perimenopausal Transition (WTF…) Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/perimenopausesymptom  Which Stage of Perimenopause Am I In? Ebook: https://drcarriejones.kit.com/stagesofperimenopause    LETS CONNECT:    Dr. Carrie Jones: Website: www.drcarriejones.com  Newsletter:https://drcarriejones.kit.com/newsletter IG: dr.carriejones   TikTok: @drcarriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones    Guest: Dr. Nan Wise Website: https://askdoctornan.com/  Instagram: @askdoctornan