

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones
Dr. Sameena Rahman
As a fierce champion for women empowering women (and the people that love them), GynoGirl provides the knowledge and education to help you advocate for yourself so that you can live your best life!
Dr. Sameena Rahman curates a space for exploring hormonal changes, sexual health, and pelvic wellness, while also emphasizing self-love and life improvement. Through collaborations with leading experts and the personal stories of patients, she provides a platform for knowledge-sharing while also addressing healthcare issues that have impaired women’s quality of life.
A board-certified, South-Asian Muslim-American gynecologist who specializes in sex medicine and menopause, Dr. Rahman highlights the influence of religion, culture, racial bias, and societal factors on sexual health experiences.
Dr. Sameena Rahman curates a space for exploring hormonal changes, sexual health, and pelvic wellness, while also emphasizing self-love and life improvement. Through collaborations with leading experts and the personal stories of patients, she provides a platform for knowledge-sharing while also addressing healthcare issues that have impaired women’s quality of life.
A board-certified, South-Asian Muslim-American gynecologist who specializes in sex medicine and menopause, Dr. Rahman highlights the influence of religion, culture, racial bias, and societal factors on sexual health experiences.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 12, 2024 • 47min
Dr. Mary Claire Haver: Menopause, Belly Fat, HRT, Frozen Shoulder and societies acceptance of women’s suffering.
Are you curious about how menopause impacts your health and what can be done to manage it effectively?Tune in to today's episode as we dive into these crucial issues with the amazing Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a board-certified OB-GYN and culinary medicine specialist who is passionate about demystifying menopause healthcare.Dr. Haver joins us to discuss the complexities of menopause, breaking down the myths, and providing valuable insights into hormone therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and much more.Highlights:Understanding the Risks of Low Estrogen: Learn how the absence of estrogen can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, osteoporosis, and other conditions.Addressing Early Menopause: Women forced into early menopause, especially through surgical menopause, often face significant health risks and are not adequately counseled or treated. Dr. Haver provides insights into navigating these challenges.Improving Clinician Confidence: With only a small percentage of graduating clinicians feeling confident in treating menopausal symptoms, telemedicine companies are stepping in to fill the gap. Discover the emerging solutions and resources available.Unusual Menopause Symptoms: From frozen shoulder to burning tongue syndrome, Dr. Haver explains some of the lesser-known symptoms of menopause and how to address them.Hormone Therapy Facts: Despite prevalent myths, hormones play a vital role in relieving joint pain and other menopausal symptoms. Learn about the most effective and safe hormone therapy options beyond the commonly used pellets.Personal Experience with Menopause: Dr. Haver shares her personal journey through menopause, highlighting the challenges she faced and the realization of the need for better care and education.Importance of Lifestyle Choices: Explore how lifestyle choices, including nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, and sleep optimization, can significantly influence health outcomes during menopause.Health Toolkit: Dr. Haver discusses her concept of a health toolkit, offering personalized plans for nutrition, exercise, and more to support overall well-being during menopause and beyond.About our guest:Dr. Mary Claire Haver is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist from the American College of Culinary Medicine. She is a Louisiana StateUniversity Medical Center graduate and completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She is also a Certified Menopause Specialist through The Menopause Society.Dr. Haver was a clinical professor at UTMB and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Dr. Haver has served as a Hospitalist, Associate Residency Director, and AssistantProfessor in her career. In 2021 she opened Mary Claire Wellness, a clinic dedicated to caring for the menopausal patient. Dr. Haver has amassed over 5 million followers across social media by posting advice for women going through menopause. She understands that menopause healthcare is in dire need of change and is proud to be leading the conversation. Her educational background and her own experience led Dr. Haver to develop the national bestselling book and online program, The Galveston Diet, and is the New York Times #1 Bestselling Author of The New Menopause, a quintessential guide to navigating themenopausal transition and life after reproduction ends.Stay informed, stay engaged, and let's continue to change the narrative around menopause and women's health!Join Our Conversation:Our podcast exists to educate and empower you so you can advocate for your health. If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, subscribe, and share it with your friends!Get in Touch With Dr. Mary Claire Haver:TikTok - @drmaryclaireInstagram - drmaryclaire and the.galveston.dietFacebook - The Galveston Diet Mary Claire Haver, MDYouTube - Mary Claire Haver, MDLinkedIn - The 'Pause Life with Dr. Mary Claire HaverGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

Jul 5, 2024 • 53min
Reframing Menopause: Gabriella Espinosa on Stepping into Your True Power
Do you ever feel like society has left middle-aged women's health issues in the dark? On today's episode we dive deep into menopause, breast health, and sexuality with our incredible guest, Gabriella Espinosa. Gabriella, a sexual wellness and midlife menopause coach, shares her personal and professional journey in empowering women to embrace midlife and beyond.Gabriella’s work emphasizes educating and empowering women about sexuality, mental wellness, and menopause, helping them transition through this life stage with grace and live more fully. Together, we highlight the importance of creating language and awareness around these critical topics to avoid trauma and promote empowerment.In this conversation, we also explore how menopause is not just a physical change but a significant life transformation. Gabriella walks us through her approach to guiding women in making peace with their bodies, setting goals for health, purpose, and sexuality, and dismantling limiting beliefs and shame around sex and pleasure.We also touch on the societal implications and the dire need for representation of older women in all facets of society. We also dive into Gabriella’s retreats which are in stunning locations like the countryside of England and France to aim to empower women, build communities, and provide essential education and support.Our discussion is packed with valuable tips on self-advocacy in healthcare settings, mindfulness practices, and the importance of taking proactive measures for midlife health. Gabriella's personal stories and professional insights provide a roadmap for women to embrace their wisdom and live their best lives during midlife and beyond.Jump into this episode to learn how you can advocate for yourself, be proactive about your health, and break free from societal narratives that hold you back.Have someone in mind for our next interview? We want to hear from you! Our mission is to educate and so you can advocate for yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!Highlights:Gabriella shares her personal journey through perimenopause, including a decline in libido and symptoms like fatigue and anxiety. Learn how she transformed these challenges into a new career dedicated to helping other women.Discover the importance of educating and empowering girls and women around sexuality, breast health, and menopause, to prevent shame and promote a healthier future.Understand the psycho-emotional aspects of menopause and the need for mindset shifts and support during this transformative phase.Learn more about Gabriella's wellness retreats, where women engage in talks on menopause, hormones, sexual health, yoga, mindfulness, and workshops aimed at empowerment and community building.Tune into tips on advocating for yourself in medical scenarios, such as developing a language of sensations, preparing a list of questions, and asserting priorities in health concerns.Gabriella's role as a coach involves guiding women to adopt mindfulness-based practices related to movement, nutrition, sexual health, and mental wellness, helping them become the best versions of themselves.Hear Gabriella's call to embrace the wisdom and value of women in society, workplaces, and communities, and the importance of their lived experiences.About our guest:Gabriella Espinosa is a women’s health and sexual wellness coach and host of the podcast Pleasure in the Pause which is dedicated to empowering midlife women to own their pleasure, power and purpose through menopause and beyond.Her work lies at the intersection of embodiment, eastern traditional wisdom, female sexuality and menopausal health and is informed by 15 years of guiding women to know, trust and appreciate their bodies through 1-1 and group coaching programs, online courses and international retreats.Learning from her own experience of perimenopause with a lack of knowledge about her body, changing hormones and what to expect, Gabriella developed a holistic, educational and coaching program incorporating yoga, breathwork, mindfulness and sex education to support other women to demystify and navigate the transition into peri-menopause/menopause.Gabriella believes menopause is an invitation to get to know ourselves better and upgrade our physical, mental and emotional selves to the best version possible. Gabriella’s guidance takes women on a journey of self-exploration, trust and knowing. We do get to the other side wiser, stronger, sexier and more empowered! She serves on the board of the national non-profit Lett’s Talk Menopause. As a bilingual and bicultural Latina, she is committed to breaking the cultural stigma and broadening the menopause conversation within the Latina community.Get in Touch with Gabriella: Website PodcastInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

Jun 28, 2024 • 60min
Breaking Barriers: Dr. Sharon Malone on Menopause, Health Equity, and Career Changes
Do you ever wish that your conversations about menopause were more open? Well, that is precisely what our latest podcast episode addresses. Welcome Dr. Sharon Malone as we dive deep into the pressing issue of menopause. Dr. Sharon Malone is a DC-based OB/GYN and Certified Menopause Practitioner on a mission to empower women to take charge of their health. She is a nationally known expert in women’s health, a New York Times Bestselling author, and the Chief Medical Advisor at Alloy Women’s Health.Together, we emphasize the critical need for education and awareness among both the community and healthcare providers to better address the needs of women going through menopause.Dr. Malone and I highlight the importance of seeking specialized care and effectively navigating the healthcare system. They discuss the challenges and limitations posed by the current insurance system, stressing the urgency of innovative solutions, including telehealth, which could democratize access to specialized care and ensure every woman gets the treatment she deserves.The episode delves into significant findings from the SWAN study, which observed menopausal women over 25 years. Notably, it revealed black women tend to experience menopause earlier with more severe symptoms, such as hot flashes, disrupted sleep, and increased cardiovascular risks. Despite these severe symptoms, there is often a lack of adequate hormone therapy due to a combination of misinformation and the normalization of suffering.Additionally, Dr. Malone shares her personal journey through menopause, highlighting that it can be a productive and fulfilling phase of life if women take charge of their health and well-being. She also discusses her transition from private practice to her role at Alloy Health, aiming to provide more comprehensive care for menopausal women.Highlights:The SWAN Study Findings: Learn about the long-term study that observed menopausal women and the insights gained regarding the onset and severity of symptoms. Navigating Healthcare: Tips on finding the right expertise and efficiently managing healthcare interactions.Telehealth and Innovation: Explore how telehealth can improve access to specialized care for women.Dr. Malone's Personal Journey: Discover how menopause can be a creative and fulfilling phase of life when women take proactive steps for their health.Aging Gracefully: Emphasize the importance of taking charge of one’s health and leveraging intergenerational conversations for cognitive fitness.About Dr. Sharon Malone:Dr. Sharon Malone is a DC -based OB/GYN and Certified Menopause Practitioner on a mission to empower women to take charge of their health.Dr. Sharon Malone is a nationally known expert in women’s health and the New York Times Bestselling author of Grown Woman Talk. She is the Chief Medical Advisor at Alloy Women’s Health, a telehealth company that focuses on women over 40. Before joining Alloy, Dr. Malone was a partner at one of the oldest and most successful OB/GYN medical practices in Washington, D.C. She is board-certified by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and certified by the North American Menopause Society as a Certified National Menopause Practitioner. Throughout her professional career, she has been active in advocating for reproductive rights, reducing teen pregnancy, and eliminating health care disparities.Dr. Malone is the youngest of eight children. During World War II, her parents, both of whom were raised in the rural south, moved to Mobile, Alabama, during the migration from farms to cities. She has seen health care from both sides– as a physician and a child of parents who negotiated health care for themselves and their families in the Jim Crow South. Despite living next door to two hospitals, preventative health care was never a part of her family’s life. As a result, Dr. Malone’s mother would lose her life to colon cancer, diagnosed too late for treatment. This searing life experience has informed how Dr. Malone has chosen to practice medicine and brought focus to the healthcare issues she has chosen to pursue.In addition to her interest in women’s health, Dr. Malone is an avid reader, an amateur genealogist, and a lover of music. She is married to former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. and lives in Washington, D.C. They are the parents of Maya, Brooke, and Eric III.Remember, this podcast exists to educate so that you can advocate for yourself. Who else would you like us to interview? Please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!Get in touch with Dr. Sharon Malone:WebsiteBookInstagramTwitterGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

Jun 21, 2024 • 53min
Women’s Health Evolution: Dr. James Simon on HRT, Cognitive Function, and Heart Health
Do you ever wish that your hormonal health and menopause journey were clearer and better understood?On today’s episode, join me in welcoming Dr. James Simon as we dive deep into the impacts of hormone therapy on cardiovascular health, bone health, and overall well-being during menopause. This conversation sheds light on pivotal findings from the Women’s Health Initiative, which revealed that early use of estrogen or hormone therapy close to menopause significantly benefits cardiovascular health. Dr. Simon shares compelling patient cases where hormone therapy decisions were guided by coronary artery calcium scores, lipid profiles, and cardiovascular risk factors. I explore the potential of estradiol for easing perimenopausal symptoms and brings up ongoing studies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice.We discuss the emerging molecule, estetrol, a naturally occurring fetal estrogen. This hormone is showing promising results in not just birth control but also in vaginal estrogen products and treatments for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Estetrol’s benefits on bones, blood vessels, and heart health make it a potential game-changer for menopausal therapy.We also touch on the broader problem of cookie-cutter medicine and the importance of individualized treatment plans. Dr. Simon dispels the myth around hormone therapy and breast cancer risk, citing the Women's Health Initiative's findings. I also talk about the need for tailored treatment, especially given the high prevalence of heart disease and diabetes in specific populations, such as the South Asian community. Highlights:Cardioprotective Benefits: Early hormone therapy near menopause can offer cardiovascular benefits. Delaying it may increase risks.Breast Cancer Survivors: Shared decision-making in hormone therapy post-treatment shows emerging evidence of safety after a period.Brain Health: Hormones might help reduce or prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia by affecting brain energy metabolism.Testosterone Therapy: Dr. Simon advocates for the benefits and safety of testosterone therapy in menopausal women, although an FDA-approved product is still awaited.Patient Advocacy: Dr. Simon provides tips on advocating for yourself in healthcare, finding menopause experts, and staying informed.If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple! Who else would you like us to interview? This podcast exists to ensure you are educated and can advocate for yourself. Join us, stay informed, and continue the journey of health advocacy and empowerment with Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs and Hormones.About our Guest:Dr. James A. Simon is Clinical Professor of Ob/Gyn at George Washington University in Washington DC. A board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, reproductive endocrinologist, and AASECT-Certified Sexuality Counsellor, Dr. Simon’s private medical practice, IntimMedicine Specialists® (www.IntimMedicine.com), focuses on complicated gynecology,reproductive endocrinology, menopause, and sexual health. Dr. Simon’s extensive and pioneering experience utilizing both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies for menopausal symptoms and sexual problems (i.e., reduced sexual desire/blunted arousal, and weak or absent orgasm, pelvic and sexual pain) have resulted in his receiving numerous awards.Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Simon is an experienced clinical researcher having completed more than 400 clinical research trials, while receiving grants, contracts, and scholarships from a wide range of sponsors, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), The American Heart Association (AHA), The Heinz Foundation, and the pharmaceuticalindustry. Dr. Simon was Sprout Pharmaceuticals’ Chief Medical Officer (CMO) during the development of the first FDA-approved medication for women’s sexual health. Dr. Simon is the only physician to serve as President of both the North American Menopause Society (NAMS now The Menopause Society), and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH).Nicknamed “The Menopause Whisperer” by Washingtonian Magazine, a short-list of Dr. Simon’s other honors and achievements includes being selected to “Top Washington Physicians,” “America’s Top Obstetricians and Gynecologists,”“Super Doctors of Washington DC-Baltimore-Northern Virginia,” and “The Best Doctors in America.” Dr. Simon is a recipient of the NAMS-Leon Speroff Outstanding Educator Award and the ISSWSH-Distinguished Service Award.He is an author or co-author of more than 800 articles, abstracts, chapters, and proceedings, including several prize-winning papers, as well as the paperback book: Restore Yourself: A Woman’s Guide to Reviving Her Sexual Desire and Passion for Life.Connect with Dr. James SimonWebsiteLicensed in:ColoradoDistrict of ColumbiaMaryland (pending)MichiganOhioTennesseeVirginia InstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

Jun 14, 2024 • 44min
Dr. Debby Herbenick – Rough Sex, How to have the “Talk with your Kids”, & Understanding the Risks
Parents, have you heard about teens engaging in rough sex practices like choking? Are you concerned about the potential long-term effects on their well-being?In this episode, I talk with Dr. Debby Herbenick, a Provost Professor. We dive headfirst into the complex dynamics of this controversial topic. From the reasons people find it compelling to the deeply important aspect of consent, we've got it all covered.Today's discussion doesn't just skim the surface. Dr. Herbenick shares her extensive research on the diversity of reasons behind why individuals engage in choking, be it an interest in the kink and BDSM communities or influences from mainstream culture. But here's the catch—consent is paramount, and many people skip this crucial step. We'll explore the risks, the lack of clear communication, and how this can lead to potential misunderstandings and dangers.As always, education is empowerment. We stress the importance of educating patients and the general public about the risks and necessity of consent in sexual practices.Highlights:Diversity of Reasons: Dr. Debby Herbenick dives deep into the various reasons people engage in choking during sex, from kink and BDSM interests to mainstream cultural influences.Consent is Critical: Discover the alarming gaps in discussions about consent, the intensity, type, and duration of choking, and the risks these pose.Impact of Technology: Examine how technology and social media have reshaped the way we form relationships and communicate, affecting both consent and reactions.Educational Outreach: I underscore the significance of parenting and professional guidance in addressing sexual health topics with tweens and teens.Research Insights: Learn about recent findings showing the potential cumulative impacts of choking during sex on brain function and health.Parental Guidance: Tips for parents on communicating effectively with their children about the legal and ethical implications of sharing nude images.Ready to dive deeper into these crucial topics? Hit subscribe and follow our podcast for more insights and expert discussions. Let's stay smart and informed about our sexual health together!Remember, this podcast exists to educate and empower you to advocate for your own sexual health. Please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple!We encourage you to stay informed and advocate for your sexual well-being. You can always learn more by visiting our website and following us on social media.Guest Bio:Dr. Debby Herbenick is a Provost Professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, and an AASECT-certified sexuality educator. Her new book is “Yes Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Today’s Teens and Sex.” Dr. Herbenick’s research focuses on women’s sexual health, US population-representative research, as well as trends in sexual attitudes and behaviors. She has published more than 200 peer-reviewed scientific articles related to sexual and reproductive health and serves as Principal Investigator of the award-winning National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, which has been ongoing since 2009. Dr. Herbenick’s research, books, and expertise have been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, Vogue, Tyra Banks Show, Discovery Health, and in thousands of others media.Connect with Dr.Debby Herbenick:Website Center for Sexual Health Promotion InstagramBookGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

Jun 7, 2024 • 34min
Unpacking PCOS: Infertility, Metformin, and Ozempic with Dr. Roohi Jeelani
Curious about how your reproductive health and fertility options work?On today's episode, we dive into these important issues with the amazing Dr. Roohi Jeelani, a double-board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist who specializes in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.Dr. Jeelani is passionate about starting more open conversations about fertility and reproductive health, especially in the South Asian community. She not only shares medical advice but also talks about the social, cultural, and political factors that affect reproductive rights. Together, we explore the complexities of fertility care, the impact of legislation on treatments, and the importance of supporting policies and candidates that protect reproductive rights.Highlights:Navigating Legal Challenges: Dr. Jeelani explains how laws impact fertility treatments and abortion rights and why it's crucial to support policies that protect these healthcare services.The Journey of Fertility: Learn about the transition from general gynecology to specializing in fertility, and when you should consider seeking fertility treatment based on age and fertility status.Fertility Myths Debunked: Find out why home fertility tests might not be as reliable as they seem, and the importance of clinical tests for effective treatment plans.Managing PCOS: Dr. Jeelani shares tips on lifestyle changes, diet, and supplements to boost fertility in PCOS patients. She also discusses medication options like Metformin and GLP-1 agonists.The Real Deal on Egg Freezing: Understand the egg freezing process, what to expect, and why it's like an insurance plan for future fertility. Dr. Jeelani provides statistics on success rates based on age and the number of eggs retrieved.Personal Advocacy in Healthcare: Dr. Jeelani emphasizes the importance of knowing your body, asking the right questions, and seeking second opinions. She highlights the need for a supportive and comfortable healthcare setting for effective treatment.Remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone. Being informed, asking questions, and standing up for your reproductive health are key steps.Who do you want to hear from next? Our podcast is here to educate so you can and advocate for yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, subscribe, and share with your friends!Guest Bio:Roohi Jeelani, MD, FACOG, is a double board certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist (REI). A graduate of Ross University School of Medicine, she completed both her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Wayne State University – Detroit Medical Center. During her medical training, Dr. Jeelani received numerous awards in the areas of fetal medicine and reproductive medicine. In addition, she has authored a variety of publications and book chapters in well known journals highlighting cutting-edge REI advancement and has presented at national/international conferences and symposiums focused on advancements in women’s health. Dr. Jeelani is an active member of many medical associations. A highly-skilled reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist focusing on all areas of reproductive health, Dr. Jeelani has a special interest in oncofertility, toxins’ impact on reproductive function, chemotherapy, and oocyte cryopreservation.Dr. Jeelani serves patients from our Chicago, IL and our Detroit, MI clinicsConnect with Dr. Roohi Jeelani: WebsiteInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

May 31, 2024 • 32min
Managing Hypermobility Dr. Linda Bluestein’s guide to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Do you ever wish someone would break down the complexities of joint hypermobility, sexual pain, and how they connect to your overall health? Well, that's exactly what we dived into in this episode! We were honored to have Dr. Linda Bluestein, a former dancer-turned-physician specializing in hereditary disorders of connective tissue, join us to share her personal journey with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Her insights show how a combination of approaches, not a single solution, can lead to better health outcomes.Highlights:1. Multifaceted Approaches to Health: - Dr. Bluestein underscores that managing health issues, particularly joint hypermobility and its symptoms, often necessitates a combination of methods—ranging from medications and supplements to lifestyle changes and psychosocial support.2. Joint Hypermobility in Dancers: - Did you know a stunning 90% of ballet dancers experience generalized joint hypermobility? We explore how joint hypermobility can lead to symptomatic conditions affecting dancers' performance and quality of life.3. Sexual Pain and Pelvic Floor Disorders: - Learn about the prevalence and management of sexual pain and pelvic floor dysfunction, emphasizing these common issues as part of nearly every treatment plan Dr. Rahman and Dr. Bluestein encounter.4. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): - Unpack how mast cells and their potential hyperactivity cause distress and inflammation, and how managing triggers like food and exercise can significantly impact health outcomes.5. Mind-Gut Connection: - Hear about the essential mind-gut connection in addressing abdominal pain and bloating, and why treatments like acupuncture are recommended based on individual preferences and experiences.6. Empowerment and Self-Advocacy: - Dr. Rahman emphasizes the importance of not giving up, seeking reliable information, and making use of resources like this podcast to become your own best health advocate. How You Can Get Involved:Subscribe & Review: Head over to Apple or Spotify to subscribe, review, and let us know what topics you’d love to hear about next.Go to my website and sign up for our newsletter for more insights and updates! Questions or Comments?We love engaging with our listeners! Drop your questions or comment on my Instagram page, and let’s keep learning and advocating for better health together.Connect with Dr. Bluestein:WebsiteInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

May 24, 2024 • 34min
Don’t Let Menopause Stop Your Orgasms: Dr. Lauren Streicher Explains How
While it may seem that menopause has begun to become more open to talking about, there is still a stigma and the idea that women should deal with the symptoms that come with it, including having issues with orgasms. Well, Dr. Lauren Streicher is on a mission to change that. Dr. Streicher is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society, and the founding Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause.In addition to her academic appointment at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Dr. Streicher is on the faculty of Northwestern University’s Graduate Program in Reproductive Science and Medicine for students pursuing a Master of Science degree in medical research.She is a best-selling author and has written multiple books including The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy and Sex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever. Inside Information, a series of books about menopause launched in 2021 and includes Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina and Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist’s Guide to Turning Down the Heat. Her next book, Put the O Back into Mojo: A Post-Menopause Guide to Orgasm, is scheduled to be released in 2024. We discussed the critical importance of addressing hormone-related issues that impact mental health and sexual function in women. Topics ranged from the concept of "drug holidays" to the potential benefits of Viagra for conditions like sexual dysfunction, SSRI use for menopause management. Dr. Streicher provided invaluable insights into managing these challenges.We also talked about societal taboos surrounding sexuality and the lack of emphasis on pleasure in sex education. Dr. Streicher shared insights from her collaboration with her daughter, Rachel, on their groundbreaking book about orgasms and libido. This book combines medical and psychosocial perspectives to educate and empower women on these crucial aspects of sexual health.Highlights-Importance of hormones in sexual healthImpact of hormone imbalances on sexual function, Hormone replacement therapy for managing sexual dysfunction.Addressing Misconceptions about Hormone Replacement TherapyCommon misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy,Benefits and risks associated with hormone replacement therapy,Importance of informed decision-making in hormone therapyGaslighting and Lack of Education in Sexual HealthLack of education and information on sexual health.Challenges in accessing comprehensive sexual health education.Addressing misinformation and stigma related to sexual health.Menopause and Sexual DysfunctionImpact of menopause on sexual function. Common sexual health issues during menopause.Treatment options for sexual dysfunction in menopausal women.Importance of addressing sexual health concerns in menopause.Connect with Dr. Streicher:WebsitePodcastInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

May 17, 2024 • 34min
Hormones, Bone Health and Aging: What you Need to know with Dr. Kristi DeSapri
Curious about how to nurture your bone health?Today we're joined by the fabulous Dr. Kristi DaSapri, a national leader osteoporosis and menopause management.We’re tackling a topic today that seriously needs more spotlight—bone health during menopause and the sneaky beast that is osteoporosis.Did you know osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until you break a bone? Yep, it’s that silent. Today, we’re diving into why your bones are super important, how menopause can be tough on them, and what you can do about it. We’ll cover why early action is key and how estrogen loss impacts your bone density.We’ve also got some great tips on how to keep your bones healthy with the right food, exercise, and why getting something called a DEXA scan could be a game changer for you.Whether you’re nearing menopause, already there, or just planning ahead, understanding how to look out for your bones is crucial for keeping you active and injury-free as you age.So, let’s break it all down in a way that makes sense and might even be a bit fun. And hey, don’t forget to hit subscribe and follow us for more insights. Ready to get smart about your bone health? Let’s go!Connect with Dr. DeSapri:WebsiteInstagramGet in Touch with Dr. Rahman:PracticeInstagramYoutube

May 10, 2024 • 42min
The worst pain they ever had! | The Creators of Lady Parts.
Do you ever wish that your sexual condition would be played out in a movie?Well, that is exactly what our latest guests did. Welcome Bonnie Gross and Nancy Boyd to share their stories and explain why they created a feature film, Lady Parts.Their film shines a light on crucial women's health issues, particularly focusing on the challenges and misdiagnoses often encountered in female sexual medicine.Bonnie and Nancy’s story underscores a significant theme discussed throughout the podcast: medical gaslighting and the dire need for healthcare professionals to take women's pain seriously.Turning frustration into action, Nancy and Bonnie faced significant challenges, including securing funding for a film centered on vaginal health—a topic often shrouded in stigma and shame.I emphasize the importance of storytelling in medicine. By sharing real-life experiences through accessible media like film, there’s potential to transform patient care and professional understanding.Lady Parts succeeds in doing just this, portraying not only the struggles associated with conditions like vulvodynia and vestibulectomies but also the healing processes and the vibrant communities that can arise from shared experiences.Who else would you like me to interview? Remember, this podcast exists so that people are better educated and can advocate for themselves. Please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple!Highlights:-Bonnie and Nancy share their personal Journey about pelvic pain and misdiagnoses. They don't hold back on their experiences.-The Art of Advocacy and Filmmaking: Discover how Bonnie and Nancy chose to self-produce this film to maintain the narrative's authenticity and how they managed the challenges of funding and production.- Educational Outreach: Understand the importance of spreading knowledge through cinema and education, advocating for better healthcare understanding among professionals and the public alike.- Awareness is Empowerment: Greater knowledge about women's health issues leads to better advocacy and care.- Community and Support Are Crucial: The journey of health is not to be walked alone. Community, professional guidance, and personal advocacy play essential roles in navigating the complexities of healthcare.Lady Parts Links:Official SiteInstagramIMDbLetterboxdWant to donate to Lady PartsConnect with Bonnie:Portfolio & BlogInstagramTikTokIMDbConnect with Nancy:WebsiteInstagramIMDbGet in Touch with me:PracticeGynoGirl WebsiteInstagramYoutube


