

Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information: Menopause, Midlife, and More
Lauren Streicher, MD
Hot flashes, vaginal dryness, leaky bladders, weight gain, hair loss, inability to orgasm? Nothing is off limits in these fact filled, solution-driven and often surprisingly funny podcasts that address the specific symptoms women face as they navigate perimenopause and post-menopause. Each segment is like having an in-depth consultation with Dr. Lauren Streicher, a nationally recognized menopause expert and the founding Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. Guests will include other experts on all things menopause. So strap in- it’s going to be quite the ride! This is THE podcast for accurate information about menopause but is not meant to be personal medical advice.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 7, 2025 • 52min
S4 Ep182: The TRUE History of the Vibrator
I have written many times about how in the 1800s, vibrators were not sexual items that women bought for themselves, but medical devices used by doctors to treat a medical condition then known as hysteria.
The problem is- that’s not true.
And be sure to check out my photo gallery of devices discussed in this episode!
The popularly accepted history of the vibrator
Hysteria, and how it was treated in the early 1900s
Dr. Lieberman’s research
What medical conditions electric vibrators were used for
The story continues..the mid-1900s
The re-launch of the vibrator
Sneak preview of Dr. Lieberman's upcoming book on GIGOLOS!
Link to my Substack article with pictures of the devices
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/good-vibrations
Link to my Guide to Buying a Vibrator
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/toy-story
Link to my podcast episode on the current medical use of vibrators and why they work when nothing else does
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/episode-23-why-vibration-works-so?r=740mq
Hallie Lieberman
https://www.hallielieberman.com/
BUZZ: The Stimulating History of the Sex Toy
https://www.amazon.com/Buzz-Stimulating-History-Sex-Toy/dp/1681775433
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

Jul 24, 2025 • 26min
S4 Ep181: The FDA Roundtable on Menopausal Hormone Therapy- And Why I Declined to Participate
I was invited to participate in the FDA roundtable on menopausal hormone therapy.
I declined.
In this episode, I’m going to tell you why.
A brief history of the FDA
Why there is a black box warning on all estrogen products
Why the black box warning should be removed from all local vaginal estrogen products
Prior efforts to get the label removed
How product labels and warnings traditionally have been modified or removed at the FDA
My concerns and why I did not participate in the roundtable
My article on increased sepsis when local vaginal estrogen is not used.
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/can-genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause
My Substack article on the FDA
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/crises-at-the-food-and-drug-administration?r=740mq
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

Jul 10, 2025 • 54min
S4 Ep180: The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Dawn Mussallem
Dr. Dawn Mussallem, a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician, was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer at age 26, followed by a heart transplant. She walks the walk when it comes to healthy lifestyle choices. At the Mayo Clinic Breast Center, Dr. Mussallem is the go-to expert for how healthy choices not just prolong life, but also make life better.. not just for women living with a cancer diagnosis, but all women.
Dr. Mussalem’s personal story- and how lifestyle medicine saved her life
What Lifestyle Medicine is
The six pillars of lifestyle medicine that impact longevity and quality of life:
Stress Management
Physical Activity-and is there such a thing as overdoing it?
Avoidance of Risky Substances
Nutrition and the importance of maintaining a specific BMI vs body composition
Restorative Sleep
Positive Social Connections
American College of Lifestyle Medicine- https://lifestylemedicine.org/
The Ethel Circle Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/theethelcircle/
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

Jun 26, 2025 • 58min
S4 Ep178: Mid-life Nutrition: Tips and Tricks From a Dietician with Dr. Alexandra Filingeri
Any mid-life woman knows that once you hit your 40s, 50s, or 60s, things will not go well if you eat the same way you did when you were 20. But it’s confusing to know what to eat, and how much to eat, without downloading multiple APPs and carrying around a calculator
My guest, Alexandra Filingeri, holds a doctorate in Clinical Nutrition with a focus on evidence-based nutrition interventions, particularly in mid-life and menopause. In this episode, we cover practical nutrition tips- what to eat and how much to eat to maximize health aging. Dr. Filingeri also answered questions that came in from my Substack readers.
By the way, my favorite frozen vegetables that I couldn’t remember the name of? Puravida Fire Roasted Vegetable Melange
What changes post menopause
Obesity, hot flashes and weight loss
The impact of insomnia on weight
Individual energy requirements
Macronutrients vs micronutrients
Protein supplements- yay or nay
Glycemic index
Sugar and belly fat
Grocery store strategies
Dr. Alexandra Filingeri is a Registered Dietitian with a Doctorate degree in Clinical Nutrition. During her doctoral studies, Dr. Filingeri focused on metabolic disorders, nutritional biochemistry, and clinical research methodologies, equipping herself to deliver evidence-based nutrition interventions. Her clinical expertise focuses on midlife nutrition and hormone-related health.
Website: Nutrition by Dr. Alexandra – Beauty From The Inside Out
Instagram: Dr. Alexandra Filingeri DCN RDN (@nutritionby_dralexandra) • Instagram photos and videos
Linkedln: Alexandra Filingeri, DCN RDN - Registered Dietitian in Private Practice - Nutrition By Dr Alexandra | LinkedIn
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

10 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 48min
S4 Ep178: The Impact of Hormone Therapy on DCIS with Dr. Swati Kulkarni
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Swati Kulkarni, a leading surgical researcher at Northwestern University, uncovers new insights on hormone therapy for women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). She explains what DCIS is and its risks, including potential progression to invasive cancer. The conversation delves into a groundbreaking study using conjugated estrogens and bazodoxifene, showing promising results in reducing cancer cell development. Also explored are the challenges of recruiting participants and the impact of hormone therapy on quality of life, providing hopeful avenues for breast cancer management.

May 29, 2025 • 54min
S4 Ep177: CANCER: Misinformation and Misleading "Science" with Shikha Jain MD
Do cell phones cause brain cancer? Does using an antiperspirant increase the risk of breast cancer? Does fluoride in the water increase the risk of bone cancer? Is the HPV vaccine lifesaving or dangerous?
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Shikha Jain, an academic hematologist and oncologist. We start by busting cancer myths and then move on to discuss the impact of the “Make America Healthy Again Movement” (MAHA)on cancer care and cancer research, and why the rationale behind the MAHA movement is FLAWED and DANGEROUS.
Which of the following is associated with getting cancer or spreading cancer
Biopsies
Specific viruses
Consuming sugar
Mammograms
Living near a Power line
Cell phones
Deodorant and antiperspirants
Microplastics
Microwaving
If surgery to remove a cancerous growth spreads the cancer?
Estrogen- birth control pills, local estrogen, systemic estrogen
The impact of current political policies on cancer treatment and research
Obesity
Processed food
HPV vaccine
Fluoride in the water
The financial incentive behind the MAHA movement
Why placebo-controlled trials are not always used in research, and would be dangerous
Defunding of NIH Cancer Research, including labs and clinical trials
The US Brain Drain
Over 9.5 billion dollars, representing over 2000 NIH grants, have been terminated.
In the links below, expand the abstract column to see the details of the research.
List of NIH grants that have been defunded
https://airtable.com/appjhyo9NTvJLocRy/shrNto1NNp9eJlgpA? Ffj6Q%3Aview=plasNjSudszRmPvEo&Ffj6Q=allRecords
List of NIH Cancer Research that Has Been Defunded
https://airtable.com/appjhyo9NTvJLocRy/shrNto1NNp9eJlgpA?Ffj6Q=sfsqqf7AYxKbZi37s&Ffj6Q%3Aview=plasNjSudszRmPvEo
Dr. Shikha Jain, MD, FACP, is a board-certified oncologist, national health media contributor, and founder of Women in Medicine®. She’s a tenured associate professor at the University of Illinois and was named Illinois Physician Leader of the Year, one of Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Emerging Leaders, and a Medscape Rising Star in Medicine. Through her clinical work, national advocacy, and powerful storytelling, Dr. Jain is transforming how we think about medicine, leadership, and the future of healthcare.
https://www.wimedicine.org/
https://www.wimedicine.org/wim-summit
https://shikhajainmd.com/
How to Know an Expert is an Expert
Episode 157: How to Find a Clinician that’s Not Clueless
Substack Posts
A Guide to Finding a Menopause Clinician That’s Not Clueless
Let’s Play…Is Your Doctor Really a Menopause Expert?
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

May 15, 2025 • 57min
S4 Ep176: FOOD and BRAIN Health with Dr. Annie Fenn
When it comes to the risk of developing dementia, family history is a factor, but it is far from the only factor. It is well known that physical activity, social isolation, smoking, alcohol, medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or being hard of hearing, all impact the risk of developing dementia down the road.In this episode, I explore the relationship between what you eat and brain health with Dr. Annie Fenn, the author of The Brain Health KITCHEN, Preventing Alzheimer’s through Food.
WHY food impacts the brain
What foods should be avoided
What foods are neuroprotective
Annie Fenn, MD
Dr. Fenn’s Substack: Brain Health Kitchen. Dr. Fenn is offering a 25% discount on annual subscriptions to her Substack until June 1 with this link-25% off BHK
The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer's Through Food by Annie Fenn, MD @Artisan Books 2023.
Dr. Fenn’s Brain Health Retreats Brain Health Kitchen Retreats
Link to the cookie recipe we discussed: Chunky Whole Grain Chocolate Chip Cookie. It can also be found in the Whole Grain chapter of the Brain Health Kitchen
Dr. Fenn’s information on supplements with discount codes (Dr. Fenn has no financial relationship with these companies.)
The BHK Guide To Brain Health Supplements
Magnesium Supplements A To Z
Relevate, the brain health multi Dr. Fenn recommends-Use ANNIE25 for 25% off
Dr. Streicher's retreat in Sardinia- Sept 7-14, 2025 https://www.hermedicine.org/her-travel-club-sardinia-invite (Very limited spots left)Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health. Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine. LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

May 1, 2025 • 59min
S4 Ep175: Your BONES On and Off ESTROGEN
When women think about the benefits of menopausal hormone therapy, things like hot flashes, insomnia and vaginal dryness come to mind.
But for many women, bone health is, or should be, at the top of the list.
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Risa Kagan about the role of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in bone health.
Definition of Low Bone Mass (Osteopenia) and Osteoporosis
The Difference Between a T score and a Z score
FRAX- Fracture Risk Assessment Tool
When Bone Mass Peaks
How to Maximize Bone Health Before Menopause Hits
Role of Estrogen in Young Women
The Danger Zone- When Most Women Lose the Majority of Their Bone Mass
The Role of Birth Control Pills and Prevention of Bone Loss
If Exercise is Enough
The Relationship Between Hot Flashes and Osteoporosis
Bone Loss Post Menopause
Impact of Menopausal Estrogen Therapy on Bones
Taking Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) in the Absence of Hot Flashes to Protect Bones
The Difference Between Bone Density and Bone Quality
When it is Appropriate to Take an Anabolic Agent
If the TYPE of Estrogen you take matters (Conjugated, Synthetic, Bioidentical)
What DOSE of Estrogen is Needed to Prevent Fractures
If it is Appropriate to Monitor Estradiol Blood Levels When Taking Transdermal MHT
The Target Estradiol Level for Bone Health
What Happens to Bone Density When MHT is Discontinued
If MHT Should Be Taken Forever
If Progestogens Plays a Role in Bone Health
The Role of Bazodoxifene (Duovee™) in Bone Health
The Role of TESTOSTERONE therapy in Bone Health
Another Podcast with Dr. Kagan: When Progesterone is a Problem
Dr. Risa Kagan is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the University of California San Francisco, and a consulting gynecologist with Sutter Health. Dr. Kagan has published over 100 scientific papers on post menopause bone health and hormone therapy.
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Information on Dr. Streicher's COME AGAIN Podcast- Sexuality and Orgasm
Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
LINKS
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

Apr 17, 2025 • 50min
S4 Ep174: Is Your Transdermal ESTROGEN... Getting ABSORBED?
Transdermal estrogen in the form of a patch, gel, or cream is often the preferred delivery method for menopausal hormone therapy. Unlike oral estrogen, in addition to other advantages, transdermal estrogen does not increase the risk of blood clots. But a new study, published in the journal Menopause, indicates that your transdermal estrogen… may not be doing what you think it’s doing. Today, I am speaking with one of the authors of that study, Dr. Louise Newson.
My Substack post summarizing the study:
https://drstreicher.substack.com/p/is-your-estrogen-patch-gel-or-spray?r=740mq
Link to article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39689249/
We discuss:
The advantages of transdermal estrogen
The realization that blood levels of transdermal estrogen may be below what is expected
What the study looked at
Results of the study
What factors may cause decreased absorption of transdermal estrogen
Why decreased levels of estrogen are problematic
Ways to maximize absorption
Options if serum estrogen levels are low on standard doses of transdermal estrogen
Concerns of using a higher than standard dose
The pushback in the UK regarding Dr. Newson’s work
If it should be routine to measure blood levels of estrogen if using a transdermal product
For more information on Dr. Newson, visit DrLouise Newson.com
Dr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK DrStreicher.Substack.com
Articles
Monthly newsletter
All COME AGAIN podcast episodes
Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research
Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar
Lauren Streicher, MD is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
Links:
Subscribe To Dr. Streicher’s Substack
Information About the COME AGAIN Podcast
Dr. Streicher’s CV and additional bio information
Glossary Of Medical Terminology
Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
To Find a Menopause Clinician
Midi Health www.Joinmidi.com
Midi Health is a telehealth company that provides high-level menopause care and takes insurance in all 50 states. Dr. Streicher is Midi’s Medical Director of Education and Community Outreach and is familiar with their medical protocols, which are all regularly updated and set by the top academic menopause experts in the country.
The Menopause Society- Certified Menopause Practitioner List Menopause.org
To find a menopause practitioner: https://portal.menopause.org/NAMS/NAMS/Directory/Menopause-Practitioner.aspx
Put in your zip code and designate NCMP or CMSP to get a certified menopause practitioner. While all people on this list have passed a competency examination, Dr. Streicher does not vouch for every one of these clinicians. Most are excellent.
Major Medical Centers
It also may be helpful to check with major medical centers in your area. Many have menopause clinics or lists of doctors who have an interest and expertise in menopause.
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.

Apr 3, 2025 • 49min
S4 Ep173: Two Clinicians- Twelve Questions
I get lots of questions on various platforms. But I never get to all of them. So, today is Q and A day.
I asked my friend and colleague, Dr. Heidi Flagg to join me because it’s always good to get another point of view. Dr. Flagg is, above all, a clinician. She is in her office in NY city, day in and day out, helping women navigate peri menopause and menopause. And unlike many people out there who are new to the scene, Dr. Flagg brings decades of real-world experience to the table.
QUESTIONS
Do you need to be 12 months without a period to start hormone therapy?
I am getting a period every 3-4 months, so I assume I am in perimenopause. I am having a lot of symptoms, so I went to my doctor, and she suggested I go on birth control pills. I’m not even having sex. I don’t need birth control.
I am 48 years old. I had a hysterectomy 5 years ago because of fibroids. I am now having hot flashes, brain fog, and mood swings. What hormone levels should I check to see if I am ready for hormone therapy?
I started using an estrogen patch around 3 months ago. I am still having hot flashes. Do I need to give it more time or do I need more estrogen?
Is it OK to substitute a brand name patch with a generic patch?
I am 62. My last period was 13 years ago. Is it too late for me to state hormone therapy?
Since I started using local vaginal estrogen, I have an accumulation under my clitoral hood. How best to clean it?
Is it OK to put vaginal lubricant inside the vagina?
Will hormone therapy trigger the recurrence of endometriosis?
I have high cholesterol and want to know if Duovee™ is a good product for someone with high cholesterol. Would it be better to use a transdermal estrogen?
Is it safe to use systemic estrogen and local estrogen at the same time?
I had a hysterectomy last year because of uterine cancer. Can I take estrogen?
I am taking low doses of testosterone, and I am pretty sure my voice is getting lower. My doctor said my levels are fine. I thought that only happened with high doses. If I go off, will it go back to how it was?
I am 45 years old and scheduled for a hysterectomy because of fibroids that bleed a lot. Is my sex life going to change?
A menopause coach who wants to know how to help women getting conflicting information on social media.
Heidi Flagg MD
IG @m_pause
Dr. Heidi Snyder Flagg is a founder and managing partner of Spring ObGyn, a private practice in NYC. Since completing her ObGyn residency at Brown’s Woman & Infant’s Hospital Dr. Flagg’s clinical interests have spanned the woman’s reproductive cycle with a current focus on peri menopausal and menopause.Dr. Flagg is a medical advisor to Flow Health and Let’s Talk Menopause.
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Lauren Streicher, MD is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. She is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health.
Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.
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Books by Lauren Streicher, MD
Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist’s guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain
Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat
Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever
The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy
To Find a Menopause Clinician
Midi Health www.Joinmidi.com
Midi Health is a telehealth company that provides high-level menopause care and takes insurance in all 50 states. Dr. Streicher is Midi’s Medical Director of Education and Community Outreach and is familiar with their medical protocols, which are all regularly updated and set by the top academic menopause experts in the country.
The Menopause Society- Certified Menopause Practitioner List Menopause.org
To find a menopause practitioner: https://portal.menopause.org/NAMS/NAMS/Directory/Menopause-Practitioner.aspx
Put in your zip code and designate NCMP or CMSP to get a certified menopause practitioner. While all people on this list have passed a competency examination, Dr. Streicher does not vouch for every one of these clinicians. Most are excellent.
Major Medical Centers
It also may be helpful to check with major medical centers in your area. Many have menopause clinics or lists of doctors who have an interest and expertise in menopause.
Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.


