Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

How can vibrators play a role in healing and self-discovery? In this episode, I sit down with Lara Pack to explore her transformative journey from personal pain to becoming an advocate for women’s health. Lara’s story began with her struggles with vaginismus and sexual pain, which inspired her to create vibrators designed not only for pleasure but for healing and empowerment.Lara shares how her experience with endometriosis and the lack of adequate support from healthcare providers drove her to develop her company, Elixir Play. With a focus on ethical, body-positive products, Lara is challenging societal taboos and creating tools that help women reclaim their sexual health. Her products are more than just devices—they’re part of a larger mission to bridge the gap between medical advocacy and personal empowerment.In this candid conversation, we discuss why vibrators deserve a place in medical settings, their benefits for pelvic floor therapy and sexual pain, and the ways they can aid in rehabilitation. Lara also opens up about balancing her advocacy work with her role as a mother and her vision for creating a more inclusive dialogue around women’s sexual health.This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of education, innovation, and breaking down stigmas. Lara’s commitment to advocacy and her drive to empower women will leave you inspired and ready to take charge of your own health journey.Episode Highlights:Lara’s journey through vaginismus and how it shaped her mission in sexual health advocacy.The untapped potential of vibrators in promoting healing and pelvic floor health.Overcoming stigma and breaking taboos in conversations around sexual wellness.The challenges Lara faced in developing ethical and inclusive pleasure products.Why advocating for women’s health starts with education and open communication.If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the podcast. Share this episode with anyone who could benefit from Lara’s inspiring story and insights. Let’s keep the conversation going and help create a more supportive, informed dialogue around women’s health. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to support the show!Get in Touch with LaraWebsite InstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Did you know that many menopause myths could be impacting your health choices? Dr. Heather Hirsch joins us to clear the confusion and empower women with the facts.Menopause is often clouded by myths and misinformation, leaving many women confused about their health options. In this episode, Dr. Sameena Rahman invites Dr. Heather Hirsch, a dedicated expert in women's health, to share her journey into menopause care and the profound insights she's gained over the past decade. From the misconceptions surrounding HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) to the nuanced challenges of treating perimenopause, Dr. Hirsch discusses her unique "hormone stacking" approach and how it aids in managing side effects effectively. This conversation goes beyond surface-level explanations, diving into the realities of balancing treatment, understanding progesterone sensitivities, and how personalized care makes a difference in women's experiences. Listen in for a blend of clinical expertise and relatable advice that champions informed choices and women's health advocacy.HighlightsDr. Hirsch’s Journey: From OBGYN to menopause specialist—how her path shaped her passion for women’s health.Hormone Stacking Insight: Why introducing hormones one at a time can be transformative for treatment.Perimenopause Realities: Breaking down misconceptions and exploring why tailored care is essential.Progesterone Sensitivities: Understanding the third-rule approach to help patients navigate side effects.Brain Health & HRT: The untold story of how hormone therapy impacts cognitive function and mental health.Enjoyed this discussion? Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a comment. Your engagement helps us bring you more expert conversations. What other guest would you like to see on the podcast. Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know!Dr. Hirsch’s Bio :HEATHER HIRSCH, M.D., MS, NCMP, is the founder of the Menopause & Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a former Harvard Medical School faculty member. Board certified in Internal Medicine, she completed advanced fellowship training in Women’s Health at the Cleveland Clinic. Her practice specializes in menopausal hormone therapy, perimenopause, breast cancer survivorship, sexual dysfunction, and bone health. Dr. Hirsch is an active member of the North American Menopause Society and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and serves on the medical advisory board of Midi Health. She now sees patients via her private telemedicine practice.Get in Touch with Dr. HirschWebsiteInstagramPodcast YoutubeGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to cultural practices, sexual health, and trauma that may be triggering for some listeners.In many cultures, deep-seated traditions shape women's lives in unexpected and profound ways. This episode delves into the intricate world of women's health, sexuality, and the rites of passage that are still practiced today, shedding light on the complex balance between cultural pride and personal empowerment.This conversation takes you into the lesser-known rituals and beliefs surrounding women's sexual health in North African cultures. Dr. Rahman is joined by Dr. Ons Kaabia, who shares fascinating insights into traditional rites of passage, one practice with roots far beyond modern religion. They discuss the role of matriarchs in maintaining these practices, the dichotomy between preserving cultural heritage and promoting individual empowerment, and the complex experiences of women navigating sexual health in the context of deep cultural expectations. Through empathy and evidence-based knowledge, this episode fosters understanding and builds awareness around sensitive topics often hidden from mainstream discussions.HighlightsThe role of the matriarch in traditional protective rituals and their impact on young girls.The significance of rituals in preserving family and cultural honor.The challenges women face when navigating modern health practices alongside deep-rooted cultural beliefs.How comprehensive, culturally aware sexual health education can empower future generations.The complex emotions and societal pressures surrounding these traditions.If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with others. Your comments and thoughts are always welcome—let’s continue this important conversation!In many cultures, deep-seated traditions shape women's lives in unexpected and profound ways. This episode delves into the intricate world of women's health, sexuality, and the rites of passage that are still practiced today, shedding light on the complex balance between cultural pride and personal empowerment.This conversation takes you into the lesser-known rituals and beliefs surrounding women's sexual health in North African cultures. Dr. Rahman is joined by Dr. Ons Kaabia, who shares fascinating insights into traditional rites of passage, one practice with roots far beyond modern religion. They discuss the role of matriarchs in maintaining these practices, the dichotomy between preserving cultural heritage and promoting individual empowerment, and the complex experiences of women navigating sexual health in the context of deep cultural expectations. Through empathy and evidence-based knowledge, this episode fosters understanding and builds awareness around sensitive topics often hidden from mainstream discussions.HighlightsThe role of the matriarch in traditional protective rituals and their impact on young girls.The significance of rituals in preserving family and cultural honor.The challenges women face when navigating modern health practices alongside deep-rooted cultural beliefs.How comprehensive, culturally aware sexual health education can empower future generations.The complex emotions and societal pressures surrounding these traditions.If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with others. Your comments and thoughts are always welcome—let’s continue this important conversation!Get in Touch with Dr. Kaabia:LinkedInGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Did you know that spinal health could hold the key to resolving pelvic pain and certain types of sexual dysfunction? Join me as we delve into groundbreaking insights with Dr. Choll Kim, a leading expert bridging the gap between spine health and sexual wellness.Dr. Choll Kim, a pioneering spine surgeon whose work is challenging the traditional boundaries of pain management and sexual medicine. Dr. Kim shares his journey from orthopedic surgery to collaborating with specialists in sexual health, uncovering the unexpected links between spinal conditions and pelvic pain disorders like PGAD (Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder). Together, we discuss how this understanding could reshape treatment options for those who’ve been told their conditions are “all in their heads.” Dr. Kim explains how seemingly routine spinal issues, such as annular tears or Tarlov cysts, may trigger chronic pain that extends beyond the back, affecting intimate areas in ways that are often overlooked by conventional medicine.He also shares the innovative diagnostic techniques he uses to distinguish spinal-related sexual dysfunction from other causes, which has opened doors to effective, minimally invasive treatments.In addition, we discuss the challenges of bringing these ideas to the broader medical community. Dr. Kim has faced resistance from peers who view the spine as an unlikely source of sexual pain, yet his patient successes speak volumes. This episode is packed with insights for both patients and practitioners who want to explore a more holistic approach to pain management and sexual health.Dr. Kim’s dedication to helping patients find relief from life-disrupting symptoms is nothing short of inspiring. By listening, you'll gain a new perspective on the interconnectedness of the body and why keeping an open mind is crucial in healthcare.Episode Highlights:The surprising role of the spine in conditions like PGAD and pelvic pain disorders.How Dr. Kim uses targeted spinal injections to identify the source of sexual dysfunction.The anatomy of annular tears and why they’re a common cause of persistent pain.Challenges and breakthroughs in advocating for spinal evaluations in sexual health cases.Practical advice for both patients and clinicians on considering spinal health in treatment plans.Dr. Kim’s Bio:Dr. Choll Kim, a Harvard cum laude graduate, completed advanced training in complex spine surgery at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Kim is a pioneer in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques including Laser Endoscopic Spine Surgery (LESS) which has transformed treatment for herniated discs, radiculopathy,and sciatica.In addition to spine surgery, Dr. Kim is also recognized for his knowledge in sexual dysfunction related to spinal conditions, such as Tarlov cysts. His integrated approach ensures comprehensive care for patients facing spinal and sexual concerns. Dr. Kim is a renowned global educator, training specialists around the world in advanced, computer-assisted minimally invasive techniques such as LESS. As the founder and past president of SMISS and MIS-COE, he has played a pivotal role in the advancement of spine surgery. With over 200 publications and active involvement in organizations such as ISASS, NASS, AAOS, and KASS, Dr. Kim has made significant contributions to the field, shaping the future of minimally invasive spine surgery.Beyond the operating room, he enjoys kickboxing, golfing with his mom, and family vacations.Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe now to stay informed on the latest in health insights and patient advocacy. If you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to share, rate, and review—it helps us reach more listeners and spread awareness.Get in Touch with Dr. Kim:WebsiteTikTokInstagramFacebookLinkedin:YouTubeGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

In this episode, I’m thrilled to talk with award-winning journalist Dawn Hasbrouck. Dawn opens up about her journey from considering entertainment law to becoming a news anchor at Fox 32 Chicago, sharing what it’s like to navigate a career in media as a woman. We dive into some of the pivotal support she received early on, the mentors who helped her, and the reality of managing work-life balance in a field often described as “eating its young.”We also dig into how her role in media influences public conversations around women’s health topics like menopause, creating a more open dialogue for others to feel informed and empowered. Hearing Dawn’s perspective on breaking down barriers for women in journalism and her advice for those entering the industry is truly inspiring.Highlights:A Surprising Career Path – Dawn’s journey from a budding interest in entertainment law to finding her true calling in journalism.Mentorship and Support – The key figures and advice that shaped her career approach.Workplace Realities – How she balances family life with a demanding career and the unique pressures of the media industry.Normalizing Women’s Health Conversations – Using journalism to tackle traditionally taboo topics, making space for open discussions on reproductive health and menopause.Advice for Women in Media – Dawn’s encouragement for women to advocate for themselves, form strong support networks, and continue paving the way for others.Call to Action:Be sure to subscribe for more discussions on women’s health and empowerment, and if you enjoyed this episode, share it with friends, rate, and review to help us continue these important conversations.Get in Touch with Dawn:InstagramFox 32 ChicagoGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Faith, culture, and sexual health: Two leaders share how they’re changing the conversation in Muslim communities.In this episode, I sit down with Nadiah Mohajir and Sahar Pirzada, leaders from Heart, an organization focused on advancing sexual health and reproductive justice within Muslim communities. Nadiah shares her personal story, growing up in a South Asian Muslim family, and how it led her to start Heart. She talks about the cultural and religious barriers women face regarding sexual health and gender-based violence, and how Heart is working to create safe, open spaces for these crucial conversations.Sahar, who’s been with the organization for nearly a decade, reflects on her journey from teaching sex education in Singapore to leading grassroots movements at Heart. Together, they dive into the complexities of addressing sexual health in faith-based communities, highlighting the importance of centering marginalized voices, such as queer and trans Muslims.They also introduce their latest reproductive justice campaign, which aims to provide Muslims with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their health, all while staying true to their faith. Tune in for a conversation that blends faith, community, and health in a refreshing and insightful way.Highlights:Nadiah’s upbringing in a traditional South Asian Muslim family and her path to founding Heart.Sahar’s experience bringing sex education to Muslim communities and advocating for reproductive justice.The unique challenges of tackling gender violence and sexual health in faith-based communities.Heart's new reproductive justice campaign and its efforts to empower Muslim women and marginalized groups.How the organization blends Islamic values with public health education to offer holistic support.Nadiah’s Bio:Nadiah Mohajir is a lifelong Chicagoan, Pakistani-American-Muslim, mother of three, public health professional, reproductive justice activist, and anti-sexual assault advocate.She is the Co-founder and Executive Director for HEART Women & Girls. For over a decade, she has led the organization to provide reproductive justice, sexual health education and gender-based violence awareness programming and advocacy to thousands of individuals, organizations, and campuses across the country. HEART ultimately aims to dismantle the stigma, silence, and systems that prevent individuals from seeking information, healing, and justice.Nadiah has worked in public health and reproductive justice for over twenty years in a variety of settings, including, but not limited to research, academics, policy, and community health. Her past work includes projects such as redesigning teen pregnancy programs, improving pregnancy outcomes in low-income communities in Chicago, running sex education programming for vulnerable youth, and evaluating innovative cross-sector partnerships in public health.She earned her Master’s degree in Public Health in 2009 from the University of Illinois at Chicago and her Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy Studies from the University of Chicago. Nadiah has also participated in a number of fellowships, including the American Muslim Civic Leadership Institute, Germanacos Fellowship, is a recipient of the Women’s Innovation Fund and was selected to participate in Cohort 4 of the NoVo Foundation’s Move to End Violence program. She is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2018 Chicago Foundation for Women’s Impact Award and the El Hibri Foundation’s Community Builder award. In the past, she served on the executive board of directors for the National Women’s Health Network and currently serves on the advisory board for Third Wave Fund. Most recently, she co-authored the first edition of The Sex Talk: A Muslim’s Guide to Healthy Sex and Relationships.Sahar’s BioSahar is a Pakistani-American Muslim woman from the Bay Area, currently living in Los Angeles. Her dedication to serving the Muslim community draws from her extensive experience working as an organizer and educator within community spaces.After graduating from UC Berkeley with a degree in Development Studies, Sahar moved to Singapore where she worked as a Project Coordinator for a UN-funded regional project on promoting gender-equitable interpretations of Islam for the full adoption of CEDAW (pronounced see-dah). Sahar passionately believes Islam is a religion that is sex positive and promotes healthy sexual relationships.Since moving back in 2015, she has continued her activism by challenging Islamophobia as Co-Chair of #VigilantLOVE where she creatively organizes against the mosque-to-prison pipeline. She is currently the Manager of Movement Building for HEART, where she explores the intersections of islamophobia and gender-based violence and supports survivors of sexual violence in the Muslim community.Sahar’s work with HEART has been featured in Teen Vogue, NPR, KPCC, Fusion’s Sex Right Now and #GoodMuslimBadMuslim.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps keep these important conversations going.Connect with Sahir and NadiahWebsiteInstagramFacebook Get Involved with RahimGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Curious about how cosmetic surgery can restore confidence during midlife? In this episode, we uncover the most popular procedures and what they can do for women navigating the changes of menopause and beyond.Dr. Sameena Rahman welcomes her longtime friend and renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Azra Ashraf, for an insightful conversation about cosmetic surgery for midlife women. Dr. Ashraf shares her journey as a surgeon and discusses the most common procedures sought by women in their 40s and 50s, from breast lifts to tummy tucks and facial rejuvenation. Together, they explore how hormonal changes, such as the loss of estrogen, impact the body and why cosmetic surgery can often help women feel more like themselves again.They also talk about the importance of reconstructive procedures for women undergoing mastectomies, including breast reconstruction options that have transformed recovery for cancer survivors. Dr. Ashraf shares her personal experiences of helping women regain their confidence and improve their quality of life.Episode Highlights:The rise in cosmetic procedures among perimenopausal women.Breast lifts, tummy tucks, and liposuction as part of the "mommy makeover."How hormonal changes during menopause affect body shape.The importance of breast reconstruction for women post-mastectomy.Why some cosmetic procedures are shifting toward more natural, proportioned results.Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform! Share this episode with friends who might benefit from learning more about midlife cosmetic procedures and recovery options.Dr. Ashraf’s Bio:Dr. Azra Ashraf is a double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, boarded by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Board of Surgery. She has worked on east and west coasts with over 10 years of cosmetic surgery expertise. Dr. Ashraf was a recognized physician in the Washington DC area, voted a Top Doctor. She is a Californian at heart and loves practicing in her home state.Dr. Ashraf completed a BA in Public Policy from Brown University, focusing on gender equity in healthcare. This led her to pursue an MPH from Harvard School of Public Health while jointly attending Brown Medical School. She has always loved working with her hands, and knew she wanted to pursue surgery as soon as she started medical school. She is a highly skilled surgeon with an artistic eye for detail.She trained in general surgery at Saint Elizabeth Medical Center (Boston, MA), an affiliate of Tufts Medical School. She completed her plastic surgery training at Temple University Hospital (Philadelphia, PA). Dr. Ashraf has distinguished herself by completing an additional year in comprehensive breast reconstruction, including microvascular and aesthetic breast surgeries at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School.She is recognized as a beauty expert by both the community and media. Schedule a consultation  and work with Dr. Ashraf to diversify the idea of beauty.Get in touch with Dr. Ashraf:WebsiteInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Why does menopause impact so many body systems, and what can women do to protect their health? Dr. Vonda Wright, orthopedic surgeon and researcher, dives deep into the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause and the health strategies women can implement for midlife mastery.Dr. Sameena Rahman sits down with Dr. Vonda Wright, a leading orthopedic surgeon and women’s health advocate, to delve into the often-overlooked musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause. They discuss Dr. Wright’s groundbreaking research on how menopause impacts bone density, joint health, muscle mass, and overall physical resilience.Dr. Wright shares her journey into orthopedics, why she shifted her focus to women’s health advocacy, and the transformative power of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when paired with lifestyle changes. They also tackle cultural misconceptions, the importance of naming conditions to validate women’s experiences, and practical steps for managing menopause-related musculoskeletal symptoms.Episode Highlights:Understanding the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause: What it is, why it matters, and the key symptoms to look out for.Hormone Replacement Therapy: The benefits and considerations for women navigating menopause.Bone Health Strategies: How to build and maintain bone density through exercise, nutrition, and supplements.The Impact of Frozen Shoulder: How hormonal changes contribute and what treatment options are available.Prehab and Rehabilitation: Tips for building strength and avoiding injury during menopause and beyond.The Role of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): How PRP therapy can help reduce inflammation and support healing.Dr. Wright’s Midlife Mastery Retreats: How to join and what to expect.If you want to dive deeper into Dr. Vonda Wright’s work or learn more about her midlife mastery programs, check out the show notes for all the links to her website and upcoming events. Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!Guest Bio-Dr. Vonda Wright is a double-boarded, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and internationally recognized authority on active aging and mobility. Dr. Wright’s practice focuses on minimally invasive surgery for hip preservation, shoulder and knee reconstruction, cartilage restoration, orthobiologics, and the latest in injury prevention and performance optimization. An intra-preneur, Dr. Wright was the founding director of the Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA) and her pioneering research in mobility and musculoskeletal aging is changing the way we view and treat the aging process. Dr. Wright cares for athletes and active people of all ages and skill levels from the Division I Georgia State Panthers, Pens Elite developmental hockey teams, University of Pittsburgh Division I athletes, World Rugby 7’s, Olympic track and field athletes, and the Atlanta Ballet. She is a pioneering physician and thought leader for the new legion of E-Sports athletes.In addition to her surgical practice, Dr. Wright is an accomplished researcher and author who speaks worldwide and develops innovative programs for optimizing performance and minimizing injury from the ball field to the boardroom. Dr. Wright is a media content expert and regularly appears on national TV shows including “Dr. Oz” and “The Doctors.” She is frequently quoted in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, USA Today and U.S. News & World Report, as well as in magazines such as Maxim, Prevention, Fitness, MORE, Runner’s World, Best Life, Arthritis Today, and numerous online publications. She proudly serves on the Sharecare Medical Advisory Board. She has authored five books: “Fitness After 40: How to Stay Strong at Any Age;” “Guide to THRIVE: 4 steps to Body, Brains & Bliss;” “Younger in 8 Weeks;” “A Parent’s Playbook for Raising Healthy Athletes;” and “Masterful Care of the Aging Athlete.”Get in Touch with Dr. Wright:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYoutubeGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Why is female anatomy still taboo? In this episode, Dr. Sameena Rahman explores breaking down shame, censorship, and the power of embracing "huge pussy energy."Actress, entrepreneur, and creator of "Huge Pussy Energy," Jacqueline Buckingham, joins the show today to discuss the societal stigmas surrounding female anatomy and the gaps in women’s healthcare. Together, they address the deep-rooted cultural norms that associate shame with women’s bodies and how this stigma translates into real-world barriers, from menstrual health to sexual wellness.Jacqueline shares her journey from the entertainment world to becoming a vocal advocate for women’s health and empowerment. With anecdotes about censorship and personal experiences that sparked her mission, Jacqueline emphasizes the need for equal representation and acceptance of the word "pussy" in society. The duo delves into how embracing one's body without shame can transform lives and why advocating for yourself is more crucial than ever in a healthcare system that often overlooks women’s pain and pleasure.Highlights:Jacqueline discusses how her experience with censorship and how it fueled her to continue on her Huge Pussy advoacy.Dr. Sameena and Jacqueline explore the challenges of talking about female anatomy openly, even in medical settings.Cultural barriers and how societal norms around words like “pussy” impact women's health and confidence.Why the narrative around women’s bodies needs to change—from shame to celebration.The importance of closing the gender gap in healthcare and normalizing discussions around sexual health and pleasure.How embracing a “huge pussy energy” mindset can empower women to take control of their health and lives.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Share your thoughts by leaving a review, and don’t forget to spread the word about breaking down stigma around women’s health!"Get in Touch with JacquelineWebsiteInstagramGet Your Huge Pussy ProductsGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:WebsiteInstagramYoutube

Dr. Irwin Goldstein, a pioneering figure in female sexual medicine and founder of San Diego Sexual Medicine, alongside his wife Sue Goldstein, discuss their groundbreaking work at the Menopause Society meeting. They delve into innovative treatments for female sexual dysfunction, including the revolutionary applications of shockwave therapy. The Goldsteins also share insights on treating orgasm disorders and the significance of a multidisciplinary approach to sexual health, revealing their commitment to education and the evolution of women's wellness.