You Are Not Broken

Dr. Roger Lobo, a renowned expert in women's health, discusses the misconceptions and controversies surrounding female hormones. He highlights the lack of knowledge and understanding in areas such as PCOS, menopause, and hormone therapy. Dr. Lobo also delves into the impact of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study on hormone therapy and the importance of individualized treatment. He emphasizes the need for informed consent and personalized approaches to hormone therapy based on factors such as age, risk assessment, and transdermal delivery. The conversation also touches on the role of progesterone in protecting the uterine lining and the potential risks of bioidentical hormones. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Roger Lobo discuss the use of hormone therapy for primary prevention in women. They address the controversy surrounding hormone therapy and the lack of consensus among healthcare providers. Dr. Lobo emphasizes the importance of education and the need for providers to be knowledgeable about hormone therapy. They also discuss the role of estrogen in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Dr. Lobo mentions advancements in the field, including the use of estetrol and selective estrogen receptor modulators.TakeawaysMisdiagnosis and lack of understanding are common in areas such as PCOS and menopause.The WHI study led to a generation of women being undertreated due to misconceptions about hormone therapy.Hormone therapy should be individualized based on factors such as age, risk assessment, and transdermal delivery.Progesterone is important for protecting the uterine lining in hormone therapy.Bioidentical hormones may still carry risks and should be monitored. There is controversy and lack of consensus among healthcare providers regarding the use of hormone therapy for primary prevention in women.Education is crucial to ensure that healthcare providers are knowledgeable about hormone therapy and can provide accurate information to patients.Estrogen has a role in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.Advancements in the field include the use of estetrol and selective estrogen receptor modulators.Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the You're Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Corinne Menn discuss the recent paper by Sasha Taylor and Susan Davis that revisits the recommendations for initiating menopausal hormone therapy. They explore the arbitrary nature of age cutoffs for hormone therapy, the timing hypothesis, and the implications of the Women's Health Initiative data. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks and benefits of hormone therapy, particularly for women over 60, and addresses common misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy and its effects on bone health and dementia. The episode concludes with a call to action for women to advocate for their health and seek appropriate hormone therapy.Takeaways Millions of women feel they have been overlooked in hormone therapy discussions. The age cutoffs for hormone therapy initiation are arbitrary and not based on solid evidence. The timing hypothesis suggests that starting hormone therapy earlier can lead to better health outcomes. The Women's Health Initiative data is often misinterpreted and does not reflect the current understanding of hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can provide long-term benefits for bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Many women experience symptoms beyond hot flashes that can persist for years after menopause. The risks associated with hormone therapy are often overstated and misunderstood. Women over 60 should not be denied hormone therapy based solely on age or years since menopause. Dementia risk associated with hormone therapy is not as significant as previously thought, especially with proper medication choices. Women need to advocate for their health and seek out hormone therapy options that are safe and effective. Taylor S, Davis SR. Is it time to revisit the recommendations for initiation of menopausal hormone therapy? Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2024 Oct 14:S2213-8587(24)00270-5. doi: 10.1016/S2213-8587(24)00270-5. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39419045.Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Heather Hirsch discuss the critical aspects of women's health, particularly focusing on menopause, hormone therapy, and sexual health. They explore the importance of education in these areas, the complexities of desire, and the need for personalized approaches to hormone therapy. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of women's health care and the necessity for continued research and advocacy to improve the quality of life for women as they age.TakeawaysMenopause is a significant gap in women's health care.Education is crucial for empowering women about their health.Hormones play a vital role in sexual health and desire.The medical community needs to adapt to the changing needs of women.Personalized hormone therapy can greatly improve quality of life.Women are increasingly aware of their health needs and options.The stigma around hormone therapy is slowly changing.Open discussions about sexual health are essential.The future of women's health looks promising with ongoing advocacy.Women should be empowered to make informed decisions about their health.Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comThanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the You're Not Broken podcast, Kelly Casperson, MD, and Tamsen Fadal discuss the M-Factor documentary, which aims to educate and inform women about menopause. They share insights into the creation process, the importance of real stories, and the impact of the documentary on audiences and communities. The conversation highlights the need for open discussions about women's health and the significance of representation in media. In this engaging conversation, Tamsen and Dr. Kelly Casperson discuss the future of their documentary on menopause, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the need for accessible resources. They explore the significance of relationships during menopause, the surprising reactions from men who view the film, and Tamsen's personal journey through her experiences. The challenges of documentary production are highlighted, along with reflections on personal growth and the importance of making information accessible to all. The conversation concludes with a focus on international outreach and the ongoing mission to empower women and their communities.TakeawaysThe M-Factor documentary combines expert insights with real women's stories.Creating the documentary involved collaboration with various professionals and women.The premiere events have sparked significant audience engagement and discussions.Community screenings are essential for spreading awareness about menopause.The documentary aims to create real-time change in how menopause is perceived.Understanding menopause requires accessible and actionable information.The film addresses various aspects of women's health, including workplace issues and hormone therapy.Real stories from women help others feel seen and understood.The documentary has received positive feedback from both audiences and medical professionals.Future screenings and translations are planned to reach a wider audience. International outreach is a priority for future initiatives.Building community connections is essential for empowerment.Relationships play a crucial role during menopause.Men's perspectives on menopause are often overlooked but valuable.Personal experiences shape understanding and empathy.Documentary production involves overcoming significant challenges.Access to information is vital for community health.The journey of creating the documentary was transformative.Engaging men in the conversation can foster understanding.Future screenings are planned internationally to broaden reach.PBS M Factor Linkhttps://themfactorfilm.com/Tamsen on IGThanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comThanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Jim Simon discusses the importance of hormones in sexual health and the intersectionality of ISSWSH and NAMS. He emphasizes the need for all healthcare providers to be comfortable talking about sex and hormones. Dr. Simon also talks about his paper on menopausal hormone therapy and the misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy and breast cancer. He highlights the importance of individualized risk assessment and informed decision-making. The conversation also covers the future of hormones, the role of lifestyle factors in healthy aging, and the development of new drugs for hot flashes, including Fezolinetant and a new one coming on the market in one year. In this conversation, Dr. James Simon and Dr. Kelly Casperson discuss various topics related to women's health, including the challenges of getting a female dosed testosterone approved by the FDA, of treating sexual dysfunction, the underutilization of certain medications, and the importance of advocating for better access to care. They also touch on the off-label use of medications and the need for comprehensive education on hormones and sex medicine. Additionally, they explore the role of hormones in sleep issues and the impact of anxiety on menopausal women. TakeawaysHealthcare providers should be comfortable discussing sex and hormones with their patients.Individualized risk assessment is crucial when considering hormone therapy.Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, play a significant role in healthy aging.New drugs for hot flashes offer more options for women who cannot or should not use hormones. Advocacy is crucial in improving access to care for women's sexual health issues.Certain medications for sexual dysfunction are underutilized and may be more cost-effective options.Off-label use of medications can be beneficial and should be considered when appropriate.Comprehensive education on hormones and sex medicine is needed for healthcare professionals.Sleep issues in menopausal women should be addressed beyond hot flashes and night sweats.Anxiety is a common concern for menopausal women and should be treated alongside other symptoms.Dr. Jim Simon was previously on YANB episode #111 – go back and check it out!Dr. James A. Simon is a D.C.-based physician providing patient-focused care for women across the reproductive life cycle, from adolescence to childbirth, and through the menopause transition. His unique approach to care encourages women to be a part of their own wellness, disease prevention, treatment and recovery; and through his renowned clinical research efforts, he offers one-of-a-kind opportunities for patients to experience the latest innovations in women’s health.Levy B, Simon JA. A Contemporary View of Menopausal Hormone Therapy. Obstet Gynecol. 2024 Jul 1;144(1):12-23. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000005553. Epub 2024 Mar 14. PMID: 38484309.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piThanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comOrder my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson and her brother Hans share their personal journey of sobriety, discussing the challenges and triumphs they faced while quitting alcohol. They explore the emotional triggers associated with drinking, the importance of community support, and the health benefits of living a sober life. The conversation also touches on navigating social situations, the impact of sobriety on relationships, and the emotional work required to maintain a sober lifestyle. Ultimately, they emphasize the positive changes that come from choosing sobriety and the importance of reframing the narrative around quitting drinking.Takeaways Sobriety can lead to greater presence and energy. Understanding urges is crucial in the journey to sobriety. Support from the community and meetings can be invaluable. Social situations can be navigated without alcohol. Sobriety has significant health benefits beyond physical health. Emotional management skills improve when alcohol is removed. Quitting drinking can break generational patterns of alcohol use. The language we use around quitting drinking matters. Emotional work is essential for long-term sobriety. Trusting the process is key to overcoming fears about sobriety. Quit Like A WomanSober CuriousThanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comSee Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piThanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershipInterested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Louise Newson, a menopause specialist, shares her journey and passion for increasing awareness and knowledge of perimenopause and menopause. She discusses the importance of understanding menopause as a disease and hormone deficiency, challenging the stigma and misconceptions surrounding these terms. The conversation also highlights the alarming increase in alcohol and drug use among menopausal women as a coping mechanism for symptoms. Dr. Newson emphasizes the need for comprehensive care and access to safe hormone treatments to improve the quality of life for women experiencing menopause. The conversation between Louise Newson and Kelly Casperson, MD covers various topics related to menopause and hormone therapy. They discuss the importance of helping women feel better and the role of doctors in achieving this. They also delve into the impact of hormones on aging, frailty, and chronic diseases. The conversation highlights the significance of hormones in maintaining bone health, muscle strength, and overall independence in older age. They challenge the misconceptions and limitations surrounding hormone therapy, particularly in relation to heart disease. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Louise Newson's upcoming theater tour and the Balance App, which aims to provide women with information and support for their hormonal health.TakeawaysMenopause should be recognized as a disease and hormone deficiency, challenging the stigma and misconceptions surrounding these terms.There is an alarming increase in alcohol and drug use among menopausal women as a coping mechanism for symptoms.Comprehensive care and access to safe hormone treatments are essential to improve the quality of life for women experiencing menopause. The role of doctors is to help women feel the most like themselves that they can.Hormone therapy can play a crucial role in preventing frailty and maintaining independence in older age.Hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, have anti-inflammatory effects and can improve heart health.The use of synthetic hormones, like conjugated equine estrogens, may have different effects compared to natural hormones.The Balance App provides women with information, support, and the ability to monitor their symptoms and make informed choices about their hormonal health.https://www.instagram.com/menopause_doctor/Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piThanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comOrder my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Vonda Wright is a practicing orthopedic surgeon and the founder of Precision Longevity, specializing in the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause. She discusses how 70-80% of women experience related symptoms during perimenopause. Dr. Wright emphasizes the importance of hormone replacement therapy and a proactive approach to bone health, including nutrition and exercise. She encourages women to advocate for themselves and find knowledgeable healthcare providers to address their concerns regarding menopause and its impact on musculoskeletal health.

Come see me in Tacoma October 3Come See the M Factor documentary premier in Bellingham October 20thIn this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, I discuss key insights from the recent Menopause Society Conference, covering a range of topics related to menopause, perimenopause, hormonal impacts, mental health, sexual health, and the importance of advocacy for women's health. The conversation emphasizes the need for better understanding and treatment options for women experiencing menopause, as well as the role of lifestyle changes in managing symptoms and improving overall health.TakeawaysUnderstanding female sexuality is crucial for healthy relationships.Perimenopause symptoms can start before periods become irregular.Hormonal changes during menopause can impact mental health significantly.Hot flashes are linked to cognitive decline and memory issues.The Mediterranean diet is beneficial for mental health and depression.Hormones can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety during menopause.Bone health is critical, and hormone therapy can improve bone density.Advocacy for women's health is essential in changing perceptions about menopause.Nutrition and lifestyle changes play a significant role in managing menopause symptoms.Education about menopause is lacking, and many women feel unprepared.Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comThanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piOrder my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Lugavere discusses his journey into researching dementia prevention and the importance of lifestyle factors in maintaining brain health. He emphasizes the need for early intervention and the identification of biomarkers that can indicate risk for cognitive decline. The conversation also touches on the influence of the alcohol and food industries on public health guidelines, the role of physicians in prevention, and the power of individual agency in making healthy choices. In this conversation, Max Lugavere and I discuss various topics related to brain health, nutrition, and lifestyle. They touch on the confusion surrounding processed foods and veganism, the role of cholesterol in health, the importance of exercise for brain health, and the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy. Max shares his personal experience with his mother's battle with dementia and emphasizes the need for individuals to take control of their own health and advocate for themselves.TakeawaysDementia prevention requires early intervention and the identification of biomarkers that can indicate risk for cognitive decline.The alcohol and food industries have significant influence on public health guidelines, which may not always prioritize prevention.Physicians may not be incentivized to advocate for prevention, and the responsibility for wellness ultimately lies with individuals.There is no one-size-fits-all diet for brain health, but diets low in ultra-processed foods and added sugar tend to be beneficial.The conversation around prevention is growing, but public health statistics show that there is still work to be done. Processed foods can be a source of confusion and stress, leading to unhealthy dietary choices.While veganism can be a personal choice, making health claims and demonizing animal-sourced foods without strong evidence is misleading.Cholesterol is often misunderstood, and the risks associated with it may be exaggerated. LDL cholesterol should be viewed as a check engine light rather than a definitive indicator of health.Exercise is crucial for brain health and can help prevent and slow the progression of conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can have potential benefits for brain health, and the risks are often overblown.Individuals should take control of their own health, stay informed, and be open to updating their knowledge based on new evidence.https://www.instagram.com/maxlugavere/Documentary Little Empty Boxeshttps://www.maxlugavere.com/Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/piThanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.comOrder my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a privatefacebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,hormones and life support!www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices