OvaryActive

Struggling with migraines during perimenopause? The hosts dive into why hormonal fluctuations might turn your brain into chaos. Discover the difference between migraines with and without aura, and the myriad triggers that can worsen them. They also discuss effective treatment options, from lifestyle changes to advanced therapies like CGRP monoclonal antibodies. Plus, personal stories make the conversation relatable, reminding listeners they’re not alone in this journey of understanding and managing migraines.

Hot flashes: the unofficial mascot of perimenopause and the original reason so many midlife women carry a personal fan or freezer pack, or insist on that open window in January. In this episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Amy Voedisch and Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su finally give hot flashes their own episode. The Docs turn up the heat (literally and emotionally) as they talk through the lived chaos that is "my own personal summer". Our Docs explain what hot flashes actually are, why they show up, and why your brain, not just your hormones, is the real drama queen in this scenario. Listeners will finally understand night sweats, "superflushers," the brain circuits that freak out for no good reason, and why some people glow for a year while others suffer for… well… a decade. As always, the Docs are delivering solid science, introducing us to vasomotor symptoms, candy neurons (not as fun as they sound), social determinants of health, and the fact that estrogen is not the only character in this soap opera. You'll saunter out of this episode knowing what causes hot flashes, how long they might last, how to treat them, and most importantly: that you're not losing your mind. You're just in perimenopause. What you'll hear in this episode: [2:04] What are hot flashes…actually? [3:24] Hot flashes vs. night sweats [5:54] The FAQ: How common? When do they start? When will they LEAVE? [12:05] Let's get nerdy: the science behind hot flashes [17:38 The lasting impact [20:34] Hot flashes and cardiovascular risk are related [22:15 The good stuff: treatment options [36:30] Let us validate you! Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Dive into the chaotic world of perimenopause, where sleep vanishes and hormones wreak havoc. Recent research on testosterone reveals unexpected findings, while the buzz about topical Viagra stirs debate. Explore the critical link between sleep, cardiovascular health, and weight management. Discover the importance of early bone density screenings and the role of lifestyle in preventing osteoporosis. With valuable insights from the Menopause Society Conference, you'll learn you're not alone—you're just in the wild ride of perimenopause!

This holiday special is all about adding cheer to the whirlwind of perimenopause. The doctors unveil their new book, Estrogen, Interrupted, gearing up for pre-orders. They share top gift ideas from delicious food delivery to skincare wonders. Tune in for insights on walking pads, sleep aids, and fun perimenopause-themed reads. Don't miss their quirky tech recommendations, like a hypnotherapy app and the Oura Ring, all aimed at helping you through this transitional phase. Plus, discover seasonal treats and essentials to make life easier!

Perimenopause: that magical stage where your body suddenly decides it's the boss, your pants shrink overnight, and your motivation to exercise hides under the bed. On the episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch welcome the hilarious and whip-smart Dr. Marily Oppezzo from Stanford. She is a behavior-change expert who's figured out how to help people actually do the healthy things they already know they should be doing. Spoiler: it involves fewer "shoulds" and more squats. Dr. Oppezzo shares her "Stronger" philosophy, a refreshingly guilt-free approach to perimenopausal wellness that's all about adding joy and ditching deprivation. From "strength snacks" (two-minute squats you can do between Zoom calls) to "breaking the dishes" (yes, that's cardio), she helps women fit movement into real life without the drama. No boot camps, no macro counting, no shame spirals—just scrunchies, science, and a sense of humor. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:41] Meet Marily Oppezzo PhD, MS, RDN, DipACLM [1:33] Behavioral change and healthy habits [4:13 Strength training is your new bestie [6:16] Exercise "snacks" vs. sessions [9:24] Technique & tips for the squat [19:28] Finding a balance between cardio and strength training [22:13] Cardio tips [25:07] Nutrition myths BUSTED [27:40] Protein's role [37:08] Healthy snack ideas [39:59] Concluding thoughts and future plans Links: profiles.stanford.edu/marily-oppezzo Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

You've seen it all over social media, testosterone is apparently the miracle cure for every perimenopausal woe. Low libido? Tired? Losing muscle tone? Influencers say "Just add T!" The Docs say…not so fast Ready for the truth? In this episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Amy Voedisch and Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su are here for just that. Even though it is not exactly what you're seeing on social media––it is science, sarcasm, and a few chin-year jokes. The Docs explain what testosterone actually does in women's bodies, why testing it is tricky, and how misinformation has turned a controlled substance into a so-called "elixir of youth." They compare estrogen's unfairly bad reputation with testosterone's sudden celebrity moment. And they also explain why some promises from "hormone balancing" gurus should make you raise an eyebrow. Listeners will learn the good, the bad, and the hairy: when testosterone might be appropriate, the real risks and irreversible side effects, and how to approach hormone therapy safely. In this episode, you'll hear: [1:03] Is testosterone a "fountain of youth"? [5:30] What are the risks? [11:16] Testing is unreliable (and meaningless) [15:15] Can testosterone help libido? [22:04] Testosterone deficiency isn't why you're losing muscle [28:50] The truth about testosterone pellets [30:33] How to use it safely, IF your doctor advises you to [37:47] "We're not here to make friends. We're here to tell women the truth." Resources Mentioned: thecut.com/article/women-in-menopause-taking-testosterone Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Feeling overwhelmed by the supplement aisle? Are there pills that might actually help during perimenopause or are you just buying expensive urine? This episode of OvaryActive dives into the pharmacy aisle of supplements. The Docs are talking about everything from influencer "miracle" blends to your best friend's turmeric obsession. Separating data from drama and giving you the straight, if sarcastic, scoop. Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch explain what your body truly needs (hello, vitamin D and calcium), what might help (fiber and omega-3s for the win), and what should probably stay in the compost bin (looking at you, wild yam cream). They share LOL takes on supplement marketing…"clinically proven" by whom exactly? And they shine a light on the difference between food, vitamins, and herbal remedies. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:30] The supplement struggle is real [1:33] Defining the basics [4:43] If the gut works, use it! [6:32] Natural does not mean safe [8:54] "Clinically proven" is NOT a thing [12:06] The short list: vitamin D, omega-3s, and fiber [19:00] When natural turns dangerous [27:44] Myths and facts [32:26] What to skip if you've had hormone-related cancers [34:57] Final truth bomb: balanced real food wins every time Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Resources Mentioned (a.k.a. The Real Receipts): menopause.org fda.gov ods.od.nih.gov heart.org ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/list-all/ Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.htm

Perimenopause: your hormones have packed up and left, your skin starts new hobbies, and your vulva occasionally throws a tantrum. In this episode of OvaryActive, we're talking about that neglected body part everyone loves to ignore—until it itches, burns, bleeds, or grows suspicious bumps. Joining the conversation are gynecologists and fellow podcasters Dr. Ashley Fuller and Dr. Meredith McClure, the brilliant, and hilarious, minds behind Labia Logic. Ashley and Meredith spend their days — and an entire podcast — focused on vulvas, menopause, sexual health, and the often-overlooked conditions that live "down there." They're here to shine a light on the things nobody learns in residency, medical school, or, let's be honest, middle school health class. You'll hear about what's normal, what's not, and when to stop Googling and actually see a doctor. Consider this your crash course in vulvar self-awareness sprinkled with humor, honesty, and just enough TMI to keep things interesting. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:33] Welcome Drs. Ashley Fuller and Meredith McClure from Labia Logic [3:00] Your vulva and perimenopause [5:28] Annual check ups [7:33] Lumps, bumps, bleeding, and spotting [12:59] Vulvar biopsies [16:57] Lichen sclerosus [19:37] The power combo: topical steroids+vaginal estrogen [22:13] Want more? Labia Logic podcast is dedicated to all things vulva Follow Labia Logic for the sex ed you should have gotten in the first place! @labia_logic on Instagram | @LabiaLogic on YouTube Catch full episodes at ashleyfullermd.com/labia-logic-podcast. Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Fernanda Musa, a gynecologic oncologist, sheds light on the critical intersection of perimenopause and gynecological cancers. She tackles the importance of cervical and endometrial cancer screenings, emphasizing that abnormal bleeding should never be ignored. Dr. Musa explains how HPV contributes to cervical cancer and the benefits of vaccination, even up to age 45. With her candid expertise, she clarifies when persistent symptoms could indicate ovarian cancer and encourages proactive healthcare choices for women's wellbeing.

Perimenopause: when sneezing, laughing, or even thinking too hard about a trampoline suddenly becomes a bladder hazard. And guess what!? Kegels aren't the cure-all we were promised. In this episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch take us below the belt to talk pelvic floor health—the underappreciated muscle group that keeps your insides from falling out and your basement from springing a leak. Joining the Docs is Tanya Goodrich, founder of Healthy Pelvis Physical Therapy and proud owner of the best blueberry analogy you'll ever hear. Tanya is here to prove that pelvic floor therapy isn't scary—it's empowering, practical, and sometimes even hilarious. In this conversation, you'll learn why incontinence isn't inevitable, what "panic bladder" really means, and why your pelvic floor might be too tight (not just too loose). Tanya also shares her signature "poo poo ritual," tips for pain-free sex, and a crash course in blueberry lifting—yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. By the end, you'll walk away with real strategies for bladder, bowel, and bedroom health… and a few jokes you'll never un-hear. What you'll hear in this episode: [0:56] Meet Tanya Goodrich [3:18] What the heck is the pelvic floor? [5:17] Pelvic floor PT [6:37] Perimenopause and incontinence [8:56] Kegels are cancelled [11:01] Stop peeing "just-in-case" [20:01] Let's talk about poop [27:44] Chronic pelvic pain [33:18] Sex, menopause, & pain [42:34] Self-care is NOT scary Links: healthypelvis.com @thehealthypelvis on Instagram Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube Meet the Docs: More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su: Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch: Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html