You Are Not Broken

272 When Medicine Fails You - Start A CompanyMonica Molenaar and Anne Fulenwider, co-founders of Alloy, discuss their journey into menopause and the creation of their company. They highlight the lack of information and inconsistent advice they received from doctors, leading them to start a platform that provides women with credible information, support, and access to hormone replacement therapy. They emphasize the importance of validation and listening to women's concerns, as well as the need for streamlined and efficient menopause care. They also discuss the barriers to accessing testosterone for women and the need for change in regulations and education. The conversation explores the safety and benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal women. The speakers discuss the fear and misinformation surrounding HRT, emphasizing that it is a safe and effective treatment for menopause symptoms and can also have protective effects on the heart, bones, and brain. They highlight the importance of preserving function and quality of life in menopausal women and the need for a shift in the conversation around hormones from disease prevention to preservation of function. The speakers also discuss the international perspective on menopause and the challenges women face in accessing hormone therapy in different countries.Takeaways The lack of information and inconsistent advice from doctors led Monica and Anne to start Alloy. This platform provides women with credible information, support, and access to hormone replacement therapy. Validation and listening to women's concerns are crucial in menopause care, as many women have been dismissed or invalidated by healthcare providers. The barriers to accessing testosterone for women include its classification as a schedule three drug, the lack of FDA-approved dose for women, and the need for in-person prescriptions by knowledgeable practitioners. The stigma around menopause needs to be challenged, as it is a powerful time in a woman's life where she can take control and live life on her own terms. The telehealth technology and behavior changes during the COVID-19 pandemic have created an opportunity for improved access to menopause care. Alloy is focused on creating solutions for the problems women face in perimenopause and menopause, including addressing vaginal health, systemic hormones, and skincare. The safety and efficacy of hormones, including testosterone, need to be emphasized to overcome misconceptions and provide women with the full range of benefits. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a safe and effective treatment for menopause symptoms and can have protective effects on the heart, bones, and brain. The fear and misinformation surrounding HRT are unfounded, and women should have access to this treatment to improve their quality of life. The conversation around hormones should shift from disease prevention to preservation of function and quality of life in menopausal women. Access to hormone therapy is a challenge in many countries, and there is a need to spread awareness and improve access to treatment internationally. https://www.myalloy.com/https://www.instagram.com/monica.molenaar/https://www.instagram.com/annefulenwider/Special thanks to our sponsor, Solv Wellness!To learn more about Ellura by Solv Wellness, visit ellura.com for 30% off your first purchase automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Preorder 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 NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class:https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edJoin 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

271. What Every Couple Needs To Know About Women's Hormones In this episode, Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses women's hormones and their impact on sexual health with sex therapist, Amanda Louder on her "Sex For Saints" podcast. She emphasizes that libido is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. The conversation focuses on perimenopause and postmenopause, highlighting the lack of education and information available to women in these stages of life. Dr. Casperson addresses the fear surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and explains that the Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 contributed to this fear. However, she emphasizes the numerous benefits of HRT, including decreased risk of heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders, musculoskeletal issues, and mood disorders. We discuss the importance of vaginal estrogen in maintaining vaginal health and preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). We highlight the issues of cost and the FDA's black box warning on estrogen products, which she believes are outdated and misleading. Dr. Casperson also addresses the misconception around bioidentical hormones, explaining that they are the same as the hormones produced by the body and can be obtained through insurance-approved medications. She emphasizes the need for individualized hormone therapy and the importance of communication in navigating menopause and sexual health.Takeaways Libido is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Perimenopause and postmenopause are stages of life that lack sufficient education and information for women. The fear surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is largely due to the Women's Health Initiative study in 2002. HRT has numerous benefits, including decreased risk of heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders, musculoskeletal issues, and mood disorders. Finding a knowledgeable healthcare provider and advocating for oneself is crucial in addressing women's sexual health concerns. Vaginal estrogen can be highly beneficial for women's sexual health, particularly in addressing issues such as chronic UTIs. Vaginal estrogen helps maintain vaginal health and reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) by promoting a healthy acidic environment in the vagina. The cost of vaginal estrogen can vary significantly, but there are ways to find more affordable options, such as using online pharmacies and discount coupons. The FDA's black box warning on estrogen products is outdated and does not differentiate between systemic and vaginal estrogen. The safety of vaginal estrogen has been supported by multiple studies. Bioidentical hormones are the same as the hormones produced by the body and can be obtained through insurance-approved medications. The term 'bioidentical' is often used as a marketing tool. https://www.instagram.com/christiansexcoach/https://amandalouder.com/blog/podcast/Special thanks to our sponsor, Solv Wellness!To learn more about Ellura by Solv Wellness, visit ellura.com for 30% off your first purchase automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Preorder 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 NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class:https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edJoin 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. Eve Henry, an internal medicine physician passionate about optimizing health, discusses vital insights on women's health during perimenopause. She emphasizes the need for a shift from disease management to wellness, particularly through hormone therapy. Topics include the importance of progesterone for symptom management, debunking myths surrounding hormones, and individualized treatment approaches. They also discuss proactive health management strategies, such as comprehensive health assessments and integrating lifestyle changes for overall longevity.

Dr. Maria Sophocles, a midlife sex expert, delves into the bedroom gap between men and women. She discusses physiological changes in the vulva and vagina, importance of vaginal estrogen, and need for better communication between clinicians and patients. The podcast covers gender roles, sexual pleasure, menopause's impact on libido, and the role of sex therapy. Dr. Sophocles advocates for open dialogue, dispelling fears about estrogen and empowering women in sexual health.

Dr. Kelly Casperson shares her experience at the BC Sexual Health Research Networking Event at the University of British Columbia. She discusses various topics including sexual health, dating apps, virtual reality for vaginismus, and more. The event highlighted the importance of understanding the bio-psycho-social aspects of sexual health and the need for better sexual education. Dr. Casperson emphasizes that there are researchers and professionals dedicated to improving people's sex lives and that individuals are not alone in their struggles.Takeaways Sexual health encompasses the bio-psycho-social aspects of a person's well-being. Dating apps can perpetuate a narrative that dating is difficult and can have negative effects on mental health. Virtual reality shows promise as a tool for desensitization in the treatment of vaginismus. There is a need for better sexual education that addresses consent, gender-based violence, and the impact of technology. Special thanks to our sponsor, Solv Wellness!To learn more about Ellura by Solv Wellness, visit ellura.com for 30% off your first purchase automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Preorder 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 NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edJoin my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook 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

267. Kelly and Stacy London on "Hello Menopause"Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses the lack of education and research around menopause, the role of testosterone in female physiology, and the challenges of hormone therapy. She emphasizes the need for more funding for human research and the importance of individualized treatment for menopause. Dr. Casperson also addresses the restrictions and challenges in prescribing testosterone for women. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to menopause, hormone therapy, and women's health. It delves into the challenges women face in accessing appropriate healthcare, the impact of hormone imbalance on mental health, and the importance of hormone therapy in midlife. The conversation also highlights the need for better understanding and treatment of menopause-related issues, as well as the role of preventative medicine in women's health.Takeaways The lack of education and research around menopause is a significant issue that affects the understanding and treatment of menopausal symptoms. Testosterone plays a crucial role in female physiology, and its decline during menopause can have a significant impact on various aspects of health and well-being. Individualized treatment for menopause is essential, and the challenges in prescribing testosterone for women highlight the need for more accessible and effective hormone therapy options. The importance of affordable and accessible hormone therapy for women in midlife. The impact of hormone imbalance on mental health and the need for appropriate treatment. The need for better understanding and treatment of menopause-related issues. The role of preventative medicine in women's health and the importance of advocating for oneself in healthcare decisions. Thank you to our podcast sponsor!Solv Wellness: To learn more about Ellura by Solv Wellness, visit ellura.com for 30% off your first purchase automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edJoin my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membershiphttps://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Maria Uloko, a urologist specializing in comprehensive sexual health, discusses her journey into urology and sex medicine. She shares how she became interested in urology through a serendipitous encounter with a female urologist and her passion for surgery. Dr. Uloko also talks about the importance of representation in medicine and her research on vulvar health. She highlights the need for better healthcare policies and advocacy to improve patient care and physician well-being. The conversation touches on the challenges of the current healthcare system, including the degradation of the doctor-patient relationship and the lack of support for physicians. Dr. Maria Uloko discusses the importance of physicians being involved in health tech and the need for their expertise in decision-making. She shares her journey into health tech and her passion for democratizing healthcare, particularly in women's health. Maria highlights the gendered access to healthcare and the lack of patient resources. She explains her vision for VULVAI, an AI-powered platform that provides accurate and evidence-based information to empower patients in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Maria emphasizes the need for patients to be educated and advocates for themselves, and the importance of challenging misinformation in healthcare.TakeawaysRepresentation in medicine is crucial for inspiring and diversifying the field.The current healthcare system is not sustainable and needs significant policy changes.Physicians are facing burnout and leaving the profession due to lack of support and excessive workload.The doctor-patient relationship is deteriorating, and there is a need to prioritize and protect it.Advocacy and education are essential for improving patient care and addressing healthcare disparities. Physicians should be involved in health tech and decision-making processes to ensure that solutions are effective and work for patients.There is a need to democratize healthcare, particularly in women's health, and provide equal access to resources and information.VULVAI is an AI-powered platform that aims to empower patients by providing accurate and evidence-based information for their healthcare decisions.Patients should be educated and empowered to advocate for themselves and challenge misinformation in healthcare.https://vulvai.co/https://www.instagram.com/mariaulokomd/https://www.mariaulokomd.com/Solv WellnessTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product. Discount automatically applied at checkout.FirmTechGo to myfirmtech.com and enter code NOTBROKEN for 15% off today.ALLOYWomen of all ages deserve to feel fantastic. And we can—because there is relief to be found. Go to myalloy.com to start your virtual appointment today. Use code NOTBROKEN20 it's good for $20 off any purchase, one time use, and expires July 31, 2024.Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edPre-Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over Your Sex Life"Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook 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. Ellen Gendler, a New York City dermatologist, shares her expertise on the transformative role of estrogen in skincare and haircare, particularly for women experiencing midlife changes. She discusses the nuances of topical estrogen, its benefits, and the societal stigma attached to vanity in skincare. With insights on the importance of retinoids, moisturizers, and sun protection, Dr. Gendler also addresses the complexities of midlife hair loss and treatment options. Her passion for debunking skincare myths will empower listeners to embrace better routines.

264. Cervical Cancer, Birth Control, Vulvar Pain, Gaslighting with Dr. Andrew GoldsteinDr. Goldstein was previously on Episodes 68 and 69! Go check out the back episodes.Dr. Goldstein is a gynecologist and is a past president of ISSWSH. He is a top world expert in vulvar pain and is actively involved in research and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles, abstracts, and book chapters on female sexual dysfunction, sexual pain disorders, lichen sclerosis, lichen simplex chronicus, vulvodynia, and vulvar vestibulitis syndrome (vestibulodynia).Dr. Goldstein has a strong commitment to global medicine and is probably still jet lagged from his recent trip to Cambodia.In this episode of the You're Not Broken podcast, Dr. Andrew Goldstein discusses various topics related to women's health, including cervical cancer screening and prevention, the global impact of cervical cancer, dispelling myths about HPV vaccination, his book 'When Sex Hurts,' abstracts presented at Isswsh, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and pelvic pain, mast cell activation syndrome and vulvar pain, and the upcoming Vulvodynia Therapeutics Research Summit. The conversation covers the need for funding and collaboration in vulvodynia research, the potential of chemical vestibulotomy as a treatment, the impact of birth control on vulvar issues, the importance of pain control for procedures, and the issue of gaslighting and believing women's pain.TakeawaysCervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide, particularly in resource-poor countries where screening is lacking.Vaccination against HPV can prevent cervical cancer and other related cancers, but there is a need to increase vaccination rates globally.Misconceptions about HPV vaccination leading to increased sexual activity are unfounded, and vaccination is crucial for preventing HPV-related diseases.Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and mast cell activation syndrome are emerging as significant contributors to vulvar and pelvic pain, and further research is needed to develop effective treatments.The Vulvodynia Therapeutics Research Summit aims to bring together experts to explore novel treatments for vulvodynia and improve patient outcomes. Funding and collaboration are crucial for advancing research on vulvodynia.Chemical vestibulotomy shows promise as a treatment for neuroproliferative vestibulodynia.Birth control can have an impact on vulvar issues, and it is important for healthcare providers to discuss potential side effects with patients.Pain control should be prioritized during procedures, such as IUD insertion.Women's pain needs to be believed and relieved, and gaslighting should be addressed in healthcare settings.https://vulvodynia.com/https://www.gyncancer.org/Solv WellnessTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product. Discount automatically applied at checkout.FirmTechGo to myfirmtech.com and enter code NOTBROKEN for 15% off today.ALLOYWomen of all ages deserve to feel fantastic. And we can—because there is relief to be found. Go to myalloy.com to start your virtual appointment today. Use code NOTBROKEN20 it's good for $20 off any purchase, one time use, and expires July 31, 2024.Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex edTake my NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-edJoin my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook 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

263. Women Are Capable of Making Decisions: Grown Woman Talk With Dr. Sharon MaloneDr. Malone is a nationally known expert in women’s health and a vocal advocate for menopause awareness and evidence-based information about hormone replacement therapy. A certified Menopause Practitioner, she believes that all women should be able to make decisions regarding their health and quality of life based on facts – not fear.Her first book, Grown Woman Talk: Your Guide to Getting and Staying Healthy, is out now and is a New York Times Bestseller!Dr. Sharon Malone, an expert in women's health and menopause, discusses her transition from traditional OB-GYN practice to menopause care and her role at Alloy Women's Health. She emphasizes the importance of telehealth in providing access to care for perimenopausal and menopausal women. Dr. Malone also addresses misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy and the need for individualized treatment decisions.She highlights the gender disparities in medicine and the need for more research on women's health. Additionally, Dr. Malone discusses the role of testosterone in menopause and the challenges in accessing and prescribing it for women. In this conversation, Dr. Sharon Malone and Dr. Kelly Casperson discuss various topics related to women's health, including the lack of FDA approval for testosterone preparation for women and the need for more research on testosterone in women.They also highlight the additional struggles faced by African American women and minorities in menopause and emphasize the importance of advocating for women's health and quality of life. The conversation provides practical advice on how to advocate for oneself in medical conversations and emphasizes the importance of being prepared and efficient in doctor's visits. Lastly, they debunk the inaccurate breast cancer risk statistic of one in eight.There is a need for FDA approval of testosterone preparation for women and more research on testosterone in women.African American women and minorities face additional struggles in menopause and may have difficulty accessing appropriate treatments.Advocating for women's health and quality of life is crucial, and patients should be prepared and efficient in medical conversations.Knowing one's medications and their purpose is important for effective communication with healthcare providers.The commonly cited breast cancer risk statistic of one in eight is inaccurate and can cause unnecessary fear.https://www.drsharonmalone.com/https://www.instagram.com/smalonemd/https://twitter.com/smalonemdGrown Woman Talk: Your Guide to Getting and Staying HealthySolv WellnessTo learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product. Discount automatically applied at checkout.FirmTechGo to myfirmtech.com and enter code NOTBROKEN for 15% off today.ALLOYWomen of all ages deserve to feel fantastic. And we can—because there is relief to be found. Go to myalloy.com to start your virtual appointment today. Use code NOTBROKEN20 it's good for $20 off any purchase, one time use, and expires July 31, 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices