Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

🎧 Episode Summary:Over 50% of women with chronic vaginal pain considered giving up on care altogether, according to a new JAMA Network Open study co-authored by Drs. Jill Krapf and Chailee Moss. In this episode, Georgie breaks down the findings, explores why this kind of dismissal is so common in women’s health, and explains how communication—not just diagnosis—can make or break care.If you’ve ever been told “everything looks normal” when you were in pain, this episode is for you.🔍 What's Covered:Why over half of women with vaginal pain say they nearly gave up on care—and what that says about the systemHow seemingly harmless phrases like “your exam is normal” can cause lasting harmWhat two leading experts are doing differently—and why their approach is worth hearingWhy this isn’t about blaming doctors—but it is about breaking the cycleWhat every woman (and clinician) should understand about trust, trauma, and communication in healthcareResources:Resources and episodes on Pelvic Health Read the Experiences of Care and Gaslighting in Patients With Vulvovaginal Disorders studyLearn about TightLipped and the National Vulvodynia Association🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Episode OverviewIn this episode of Fempower Health, we break down one of the most common—and misunderstood—conditions women face after menopause: Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).Often referred to by symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful sex, burning with urination, or frequent UTIs, GSM affects nearly half of postmenopausal women. Yet many women are never told it has a name—let alone that it’s treatable.We’re unpacking what the new 2025 GSM guidelines reveal, and why they mark a turning point in how clinicians should diagnose and treat this condition.What You’ll LearnWhat Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) really meansHow GSM symptoms impact vaginal, sexual, and urinary healthWhy vaginal estrogen is a frontline treatment, even with systemic HRTCommon myths about lubricants, moisturizers, and “just aging”The difference between managing GSM vs. masking itWhy GSM often goes unaddressed in clinical settings—and what needs to changeWhat the 2025 guidelines clarify for patients and providers alikeHow untreated GSM can impact confidence, relationships, and even career performanceWhy This MattersToo often, women’s health is narrowly defined as periods, pregnancy, and menopause hot flashes. But vaginal and urinary health after menopause deserves equal attention.Whether you're a patient, provider, or policymaker, understanding GSM is essential to changing the conversation around what midlife care really looks like.Related ResourcesRead Burning, Dryness, Pain? These New Guidelines Change EverythingRead the 2025 GSM GuidelinesResources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Adenomyosis is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in women’s health. It causes heavy periods, chronic cramping, and fertility challenges—yet many women are told their pain is normal or misdiagnosed with endometriosis alone.In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, I share key points that Dr. Ken Sinervo, Medical Director at the Center for Endometriosis Care, shared in our recent interview. The episode breaks down the science behind adenomyosis, why it’s so often missed, and what every woman deserves to know about diagnosis and treatment.Read the article on adenomyosis in the Fempower Health Newsletter: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/adenomyosis-vs-endometriosis-differences-symptoms-treatmentListen to the full interview with Dr. Ken Sinervo: https://www.fempower-health.com/post/adenomyosis-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment-dr-ken-sinervo🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Uterine Fibroids: What You’re Not Being Told About Your Treatment OptionsUterine fibroids affect up to 80% of women by age 50, yet most are not given the full range of treatment options. In this episode, I speak with leading fibroid experts—including minimally invasive surgeons, interventional radiologists, and advocates—to unpack the medical, financial, and structural reasons why hysterectomy is so often pushed as the default solution.Whether you’re trying to preserve fertility, manage chronic pain, or simply want to know what questions to ask at your next appointment, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 What We Cover in This EpisodeWhat uterine fibroids are and who they affect mostThe different types of fibroid treatment (UFE, myomectomy, hormonal therapy, hysterectomy)Why UFE is still underutilized despite being a first-line treatmentHow reimbursement structures impact the care women receiveHow to prepare for your appointment and advocate for yourselfWhat a true multidisciplinary care model looks likeThe connection between fibroid care and larger women’s health equity issues💬 Expert Guests FeaturedDr. Jessica Opoku-Anane – Minimally Invasive GYN Surgeon, ColumbiaDr. Marc Schiffman – Co-Executive Director, Weill Cornell Medicine Fibroid CenterTanika Gray Valbrun – Founder, The White Dress Project and fibroid awareness advocate🧠 Key TakeawaysAsk about all options before agreeing to surgeryConsider seeing a center that includes interventional radiologists and minimally invasive surgeonsYour experience and symptoms are valid—even if you’ve been told “it’s normal”Tracking your symptoms before appointments helps you get better careInsurance coverage and doctor training gaps often limit what gets recommendedResources:What Your Doctor Might Not be Telling You about Fibroid Treatment: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/uterine-fibroids-treatment-options-beyond-hysterectomyHysterectomy Unveiled: What your Doctors Don't Always Tell You: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/hysterectomy-informed-consent-womens-health🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

In this episode of Fempower Health, we explore the promises and pitfalls of AI in women’s healthcare. From misdiagnosis to underrepresentation in clinical trials, AI has the potential to revolutionize—or reinforce—the medical inequities women face.What We Cover:How AI models are trained on male-centric dataExamples of how AI misdiagnoses womenHow AI may perpetuate issues in the way women's health is reimbursed What the WHI study taught us—and how its interpretation still shapes careHow AI could transform endometriosis, menopause care, and chronic pain managementWhy data gaps = care gaps, and how we can fix bothListen in for a critical conversation on how to ensure technology works for women—not against them.Click here to read the article which inspired this episode.🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Did you know that many women undergo hysterectomies without fully understanding their options?Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed on women—but too often, patients aren’t given the full picture. From what should (and shouldn’t) be removed to the long-term effects on hormone balance and pelvic health, the lack of informed consent has lifelong consequences.In this episode, we break down:The different types of hysterectomy and their impact on your bodyHow guidelines and reimbursement models influence surgical recommendationsWhy pelvic physical therapy (PT) is critical but rarely recommendedThe role of hormone therapy when ovaries are removedQuestions every woman should ask before considering surgeryWhy This Matters:Many women experience post-surgical complications like pelvic pain, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction—issues that could be prevented with better education and advocacy. Doctors don’t always tell you the full story, but you have the right to ask questions and make informed decisions about your body.Who Should Listen?This episode is for:Women considering or recovering from hysterectomyHealthcare professionals navigating patient advocacyStartups and investors in women’s health, understanding systemic barriersAnyone interested in how medical guidelines impact real-world healthcareTo access the article on this topic, click here: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/hysterectomy-informed-consent-womens-health🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

The menopause industry is projected to hit $24.4B by 2030. But are we prioritizing real care—or just creating more confusion?In this episode of Fempower Health, we break down the biggest challenges in menopause care, from hormone therapy debates to venture-backed telehealth startups and the lack of research in women’s health.What You’ll Learn:How startups and telehealth companies are filling gaps in menopause care—but at what cost?The truth behind hormone therapy: What does the latest research actually say?Why medical societies take 17 years to update clinical guidelines—and how that affects your careThe impact of influencers on menopause education—who should you trust?What solutions really help women navigate menopause with confidenceGuest Insights We’re in a moment where experts, societies, and influencers are all working with the best information they have. But the reality is, there’s still so much we don’t know. — Sentiment from Dr. Lisa LarkinWhy This Episode MattersMenopause is no longer a whisper—it’s a movement. But as awareness grows, so does the noise.Are you making informed health decisions—or just navigating marketing trends?Who’s shaping the conversation—startups, medical societies, or influencers?What’s the future of menopause care, and how do we ensure women get the right solutions?Click here to access the newsletter article of this episode, which also includes citations.🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Join Georgie in this heartfelt episode as she reflects on the evolution of Fempower Health, the trusted resource for women and clinicians navigating complex health topics. Discover how community feedback will shape the future of this empowering platform.Episode SummaryIn this special episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie shares a heartfelt update about the evolution of the podcast and her decision to take a pause. Reflecting on her journey as a problem solver and advocate for women’s health, Georgie highlights the impact of connecting listeners with hard-to-find experts and providing credible, actionable information.With the growing conversation around women’s health on social media and the challenge of navigating limited time and trustworthy resources, Georgie explains how this moment of reflection is an opportunity to recalibrate and ensure Fempower Health continues to make a meaningful difference.Whether you're a woman seeking clarity on your health or a clinician striving to better serve your patients, this episode invites you to be part of the conversation. Share your feedback, join the newsletter, and stay connected as Fempower Health evolves to meet your needs.Discussion PointsWhy is now the right time to pause and reassess the future of Fempower Health?How has the growing conversation on women’s health evolved, and what gaps still exist?What makes Fempower Health a trusted resource for women and clinicians?How can listeners contribute to shaping the next phase of Fempower Health?What lessons can be learned from leaders like Simone Biles about taking a pause to prioritize sustainability?Why is credible, expert-driven information still so important in today’s health landscape?How does Fempower Health balance deep insights with accessible, actionable advice?What role does community feedback play in the evolution of this platform?Why is self-advocacy in women’s health more important than ever?How can listeners stay connected during this pause in content production?“This isn’t just a pause—it’s a chance to reflect, recharge, and ensure that Fempower Health evolves to make an even greater impact.” - Georgie KovacsStay connected with Fempower Health:Visit us online at www.fempower-health.com Sign up for our weekly newsletter for the latest announcements, news, and researchFollow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterEmail us for inquiries & outreach: info@fempower-health.comCatch up on Fempower Health Podcast episodesAbout Georgie KovacsAs the founder of Fempower Health, Georgie has had the privilege of engaging directly with the best minds in healthcare, wellness, and advocacy—challenging them to address the questions that women are asking but the system too often ignores. Her unique position allows her to see the full picture: the patients struggling to navigate their health, the entrepreneurs trying to innovate without support, and the systemic forces keeping real solutions just out of reach.But women don’t just need answers—they need tools. And so does the industry. She brings years of experience as a strategist and consultant, working at the intersection of healthcare and innovation, to provide those tools. She’s helped clients, audiences, and organizations not just identify problems, but solve them, and she is on a mission to create meaningful change in women’s health.**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.****May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Dr. Lisa Larkin, a board-certified internist and women's health expert, dives into the misconceptions surrounding menopause and hormone therapy. She discusses the misinformation prevalent in healthcare and social media, emphasizing the critical need for better-trained menopause specialists. Dr. Larkin also shares insights on how the Women’s Health Initiative has shaped care over the past two decades. With a focus on personalized, evidence-based approaches, she empowers women to advocate for their health and navigate this transformative phase with confidence.

Discover how hormones impact skin during perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Mandy Leonhardt. Learn evidence-based skincare tips, budget-friendly routines, and solutions for healthier skin at any age.Skincare Tips for Perimenopause & Menopause Episode SummaryIn this insightful episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs speaks with Dr. Mandy Leonhardt, menopause specialist and author of What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause. Dr. Leonhardt, a general practitioner trained in menopause care, brings her evidence-based approach to addressing how hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause impact skin and hair. From the science behind hormonal shifts to practical, budget-friendly skincare solutions, this episode empowers women to take control of their health and appearance with confidence. Clinicians will also gain insights into supporting their patients effectively during these life phases.Key Discussion Points:What happens to your skin and hair during perimenopause and menopause?How do estrogen, cortisol, and progesterone affect skin health?What are the signs of perimenopause in your skin and hair?Are expensive menopause-targeted skincare products worth it?How does stress impact skin, and what can you do about it?What is the connection between the gut, microbiome, and skin health?Can topical estrogen creams improve skin appearance safely?What is the role of vitamin D in maintaining healthy skin?Why should you avoid exercising with makeup during menopause?How can women build simple, evidence-based skincare routines on a budget?"We need to look after our vulvas and vaginas in the same way as we look after our face. It’s incredibly important." - Dr. Mandy LeonhardtRelated to this Skincare Tips for Perimenopause & Menopause episode:Read Dr. Mandy Leonhardt’s books: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early MenopauseFollow Dr. Leonhardt on Instagram**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Want men to better understand how to support you during your menopause journey! Tell us what you want them to know.If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!Fempower Health Guest BioDr Mandy Leonhardt is a General Practitioner, certified nutritionist (MNU) and menopause specialist and author of What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause. She has a particular interest in women’s hormonal health, lifestyle medicine and nutrition. She lives and works in Hampshire, UK**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.**