Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Kelly Casperson, a urologist and advocate for women's sexual health, shares her insights on navigating menopause and reclaiming sexual vitality. She debunks persistent myths about female sexuality and emphasizes the importance of open communication in intimate relationships. The conversation covers solutions for common issues like vaginal dryness and pain during sex, and highlights how midlife can be a transformative period for self-exploration and pleasure. Empowerment through knowledge is key!

Join Georgie Kovacs as she highlights key health topics for September, including PCOS, ovarian cancer, and perimenopause awareness. Get expert insights on women's health, upcoming podcast episodes, and how to advocate for better care.Episode SummaryIn this special episode, Georgie takes a break from her regular expert interviews to provide updates on important awareness topics happening in September, as well as an exciting preview of what's coming for Fempower Health. She shares personal updates, including reflections on the end of summer and her son's start of fourth grade. Georgie highlights awareness months for PCOS, ovarian cancer, and perimenopause, diving into why these health issues are critical for women's health. She also shares sneak peeks of upcoming episodes focused on pelvic pain, sexual health, and the microbiome.Key Topics Covered:PCOS Awareness Month: Understanding the challenges of diagnosing PCOS and how women can advocate for better care.Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: The ongoing need for better diagnostic tools and how to recognize symptoms early.Perimenopause Awareness Month: Defining perimenopause and menopause, and discussing the importance of shared decision-making with healthcare providers.Upcoming Episodes Preview:Rare causes of pain with sex with Dr. Alex Dubinskaya.Sexual health in midlife with Dr. Kelly Casperson.How to talk about bladder symptoms to get the proper root cause diagnosis with Dr. Tamara Lewis.Gut microbiome and hormones with Guy Daniels.Pelvic pain and trauma insights with Rachel Zar.Shared decision-making in cancer risk and hormone therapy with Dr. Michelle Jacobson.Key Takeaways:Advocacy in Women's Health: Women need to be aware of their symptoms, especially in conditions without clear diagnostic tests. Being informed helps with better conversations with doctors.PCOS: It's a complex condition that affects multiple aspects of a woman’s health. While there’s no cure, management of symptoms is possible with proper guidance.Ovarian Cancer: Nonspecific symptoms like bloating can lead to late diagnoses. Awareness and diagnostic advancements are key.Perimenopause and Menopause: Shared decision-making between patients and doctors is crucial for individualized care during this stage of life.Upcoming Expert Interviews: A diverse set of expert guests bring valuable insights on sexual health, bladder issues, skin care, and hormone therapy.“We need proper language around our health to better understand how to advocate for ourselves and talk to our doctor.” Georgie KovacsRelated to this episode:SHARE YOUR FEEDBACk and take the survey!Resources on PCOS, Female Cancer, Perimenopause & Menopause Follow the Chronic Pelvic Pain and/or Perimenopause & Menopause Podcast Channels🎧 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** Host BioGeorgie Kovacs is a seasoned professional with over two decades of healthcare expertise, having contributed to industry giants like Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. She launched Fempower Health in 2020, a pioneering platform that empowers women with evidence-based insights and support. Collaborating with top experts, Georgie is dedicated to redefining the narrative surrounding women's health, ensuring every woman has the knowledge and resources to thrive and make informed decisions about their 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**

Originally published July 6, 2020In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, host Georgie Kovacs talks with Aimee Raupp, a renowned expert in women's health, fertility, and holistic wellness. Aimee shares her insights on how women can take control of their health through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and a holistic approach to fertility. She discusses her book "Body Belief" and the transformative impact it has had on her clients, including those dealing with infertility and autoimmune conditions. Georgie and Aimee delve into the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and trusting one’s body, providing valuable advice for women seeking answers to their health questions. This episode, recorded in 2020, continues to offer relevant and accurate insights into women's health and wellness.Discussion Points:How can diet and lifestyle changes improve fertility and overall women's health?What are the key principles of Aimee Raupp's "Body Belief" and how can they help women struggling with infertility?What role does holistic wellness play in managing autoimmune conditions in women?How can women empower themselves to take control of their health journeys?What are the benefits of a mind-body approach to fertility and women's health?How can clinicians integrate holistic practices into their treatment plans for female patients?"Epigenetics shows us that our lifestyle, our environment, and our mindset can actually change the expression of our genes." Aimee RauppResources:Resources and episodes on Fertility and Trying to Conceive Resources and episodes on Nutrition & Exercise 🎧 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**

Originally Published September 19, 2023In this episode, psychotherapist Catherine Goldhouse sheds light on the often misunderstood condition of OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). Catherine explains the goals of different treatments for OCD, with a focus on exposure and response prevention (ERP) and inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT). Catherine provides compelling examples to illustrate these OCD treatments, emphasizing the importance of living a meaningful life despite anxiety and fear.Learn about the common misconceptions surrounding OCD, the challenges faced by individuals seeking appropriate treatment, and the importance of specialized training in the field. Explore the less-often-discussed reality of postpartum OCD, and help increase awareness, understanding, and support for new mothers experiencing these symptoms.Catherine Goldhouse is an OCD specialist, offering support to individuals who experience intrusive thoughts and fears related to their relationships, morality, and safety. She is particularly passionate about raising awareness of postpartum OCD and advocating for proper training for pediatricians to offer appropriate care for new mothers who develop this condition.Discussed in this episode:How OCD therapy worksComparing ICBT and ERP for OCDDifferences between anxiety, OCD, and phobiasVarious types of OCD including harm OCD, relationship OCD, and sexual orientation OCDRecognizing that individuals with OCD are often kind and sensitiveThe importance of finding a supportive community for those who have OCDCommon onsets of OCD Postpartum OCD What loved ones can do to help, but not enable, OCD individuals “OCD is considered one of the top ten most debilitating disorders. So it's no joke, right? If you like to color-code things or you like things neat in your house, that's not OCD… Making comments like that, even though they're not meant to be cruel, are problematic." - Catherine Goldhouse Related to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental HealthCatherine Goldhouse’s Website: www.catherinegoldhouse.com Catherine Goldhouse’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/catherinegoldhouse🎧 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**

Find out why Fempower Health is zeroing in on chronic pelvic pain and what it means for women's health advocacy.Episode Summary:In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs delves into the complexities of chronic pelvic pain, a condition that affects countless women yet remains widely misunderstood. Chronic pelvic pain can stem from various conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, and pelvic floor dysfunction, but it also encompasses a wide range of symptoms beyond just pain, including fatigue, digestive issues, and emotional distress. Georgie shares her experiences interviewing top experts in the field, discussing the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment plans, and self-advocacy in navigating the healthcare system.Key Topics Covered:Understanding Chronic Pelvic Pain: Explore the multifaceted nature of chronic pelvic pain and why it’s essential to address it from both a medical and holistic perspective.Expert Insights: Learn from experts like Dr. Allyson Shrikhande and Dr. Peta Wright on the importance of early diagnosis, effective treatment options, and the role of pelvic physical therapy.Patient Advocacy: Discover practical tips on how to advocate for your health, including how to prepare for doctor appointments, ask the right questions, and track your symptoms.Navigating the Healthcare System: Gain valuable insights into how to find the right specialists, understand the impact of treatments like hysterectomy on pelvic health, and manage the emotional toll of chronic conditions.Real-Life Stories: Hear from patients and advocates like Katie Boyce and Tanika Gray Valbrun, who share their personal journeys and offer advice on managing chronic pelvic pain.Why You Should Listen:Empower Yourself: This episode equips you with the knowledge and tools to take control of your health and navigate the often overwhelming healthcare system.Comprehensive Coverage: Whether you’re dealing with chronic pelvic pain or supporting someone who is, this episode provides a thorough understanding of the condition and the latest in treatment options.Expert Advice: Benefit from the wisdom of leading clinicians and patient advocates who specialize in women’s health.Resources Mentioned:Dr. Allyson Shrikhande on Pain Relief for EndometriosisKatie Boyce on Endometriosis AdvocacyDr. Peta Wright on Endometriosis, Pain and Whole Women's WellnessCaitlyn Tivy, DPT on Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Endometriosis Pain Management Dr. Zoe Rodriguez on Life Before and After Hysterectomy and Jocelyn Wallace, DPT on Pelvic PT and HysterectomyTanika Gray Valbrun on her Uterine Fibroids JourneyResources and episodes on Pelvic 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**

Originally Published May 30, 2023The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 3 women experiences some form of physical or sexual harassment in their lifetime. With the growing social awareness around things like women’s rights, female empowerment, and rape culture, is the problem getting worse or better? Consent is a huge topic of discussion today, but it can be hard to know how to educate people at a larger scale.In this episode, Adie Delaney talks about her strategies and experiences as a sexual harm prevention educator. We discuss boundaries, informed consent, non-sexual vs sexual consent, and more. Adie answers the question, “what does consent mean?” and offers tips for providing better education about consent today for all ages and genders. Adie Delaney is a former professional circus artist who now works with sexual harm prevention programs. She is the founder of The Circus Studio, and travels the world to teach people of all ages about sexual harm prevention. She also partners with SASS, the Sexual Assault Support Service, in Australia. Know the Consent Acronym: FRIESFreely-givenReversible InformedEnthusiastic (Explicit)SoberDiscussed in this episode:Adie’s background in circus arts and what it taught her about consentHow Adie transitioned into giving advice and consent talksThe importance of helping girls define consent related to their boundaries and bodiesHow cultural dynamics play into consent normsTips for how to use consent education in real life The need to address unspoken rules and “sexpectations” Consent online and internet boundaries with children What to do if you’re unsure about someone else’s consent “Everyone is the authority on their own experience. But we’re not taught that.”  - Adie DelaneyTime Stamps:[00:00] Introduction: Get ready for an enlightening conversation as Adie Delaney demystifies the concept of consent. Find out why consent is more than just a checkbox and learn how communication, respect, and empathy play a crucial role in building a culture of consent.[07:20] Navigating Consent: Adie shares valuable insights on navigating consent in relationships and different situations. You'll learn practical strategies to establish healthy boundaries, challenge common misconceptions, and embrace the idea of enthusiastic consent.[17:35] Consent Education: Discover why consent education is so important for creating a safer and more respectful society. Adie provides tips and tools to help you understand consent better and become an advocate for positive change.[25:45] Empowering Connections: Explore how consent can lead to healthier relationships and empower you to stand up for your own boundaries. Imagine a world where consent is not only respected but celebrated.Related to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Resources and episodes on Sexual Health Adie’s TED Talk: An Aerialist on Listening to Your Body’s SignalsAdie Delaney on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adiedelaney SASS Prevention Q&A Instagram: @sticky_qs SASS Australia: www.sass.org.au🎧 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**

SummaryWe are excited to announce that Fempower Health is taking a huge step forward this coming season with a major rebrand, a new podcast structure, and a few very special adaptations to the amazing community here. Introducing: Fempower Health: Chronic Pelvic Pain Hub Fempower Health: Perimenopause & Menopause HubAgain and again, I’ve seen a startling gap in approachable resources for women with chronic pelvic pain conditions or going through peri/menopause. Fempower Health is dedicated to bridging this gap and this episode dives into why and how.Moving forward, Fempower Health will be branching out into two specialized categories to make sure women can easily find answers to their most pressing health questions, specifically in the phase of life they’re in.The original podcast, website, and social media profiles will remain active (still a lot of exciting things to come!). The two new focus topics will have ✨ their own spaces ✨ in newsletter format, on social media and their own podcast feeds. I welcome you to join the space(s) for content you want to see more of—and, of course, be a part of. 😊🎧 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** About Georgie Kovacs, The HostGeorgie Kovacs is a seasoned professional with over two decades of healthcare expertise, having contributed to industry giants like Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. She launched Fempower Health in 2020, a pioneering platform that empowers women with evidence-based insights and support. Collaborating with top experts, Georgie is dedicated to redefining the narrative surrounding women's health, ensuring every woman has the knowledge and resources to thrive and make informed decisions about their 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**

Originally Released October 24, 2023The ovaries play a key role in overall health, not just reproduction. More scientific findings are revealing that the ovaries even influence mood, behavior, and longevity. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Garrison from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging explains the intricate relationship between the brain and reproductive organs. She covers topics including the science of aging, the “hypothalamus pituitary gonadal axis”, menopause and health, hormone replacement therapy, and the importance of understanding ovarian function.Dr. Jennifer Garrison is a PhD scientist and the head of a research lab at the Buck Institute, an independent institute dedicated to studying aging as a risk factor for diseases. Listen as Dr. Garrison explores how age is the primary risk factor for most chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Discussed in this episode:How the brain controls female physiology, including reproductive functionEarly menopause and POI/POF Menopause and how it relates to overall health The fascinating story women’s ovaries can tell us about aging Understanding hormones as messengers in the bodyThe impact of diet and exercise on aging and fertility How understanding the aging process can help target and treat age-related diseasesHormone replacement therapy for hormonal imbalances during agingPhysical and emotional symptoms associated with periods, motherhood, and menopause"If we can understand the mechanisms that underlie aging— what's causing it, what's driving it— then we can use that knowledge to target age-related diseases." — Dr. Jennifer GarrisonRelated to this episode:Related episodes: Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) and Menopause | Dr. Mandy LeonhardtRelated episode: Women’s Health and the Ovulation Cycle | Dr. Jerilynn PriorDr. Garrison’s Lab at Buck Institute: www.buckinstitute.org/lab/garrison-lab Dr. Jennifer Garrison on Twitter and LinkedIn Find Global Consortium for Reproductive Longevity and Equality (GCRLE) on Twitter,  Instagram, and LinkedInResources and episodes on Breaking Taboos Recommended Books on Hormones and Menstrual Health Resources 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**

Originally published March 28, 2023In this honest and moving episode, author Ruby Warrington joins Fempower Health to discuss her new book, Women Without Kids. We cover all topics from childless couples who don’t want children to women who can’t have children even though it’s their deepest desire.Ruby shares her experiences writing such an important book, societal pressures for women to have kids, patriarchal assumptions, childlessness vs child-free, and fertility and sterility issues influencing adults today. Listen for an insightful, relatable conversation and be sure to check out Ruby’s newest book, Women Without Kids, available in Spring 2023.Discussed in this episode:Thoughts on Ruby’s new book and why she wrote itWhat does motherhood mean today?The impact our relationships with our mothers have on views on motherhoodWhy do women decide to not have kids?Rethinking the assumption that women should automatically want childrenExternal pressures women face about marriage, motherhood, and childrearing Infertility and its impact on women with no kidsPronatalism and society’s historical conditioning“There’s no such thing as normal. There’s no perfect, untainted path. Whatever path we choose in life is going to come with some regrets, challenges, and suffering.” - Ruby WarringtonRelated to this episode:Ruby’s website: www.rubywarrington.com Get the Book: Women Without KidsFollow Ruby on Instagram: @rubywarrington Recommended Book: Birth StrikeRecommended Book: CountdownResources and episodes on Breaking Taboos 🎧 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**

Originally published January 25, 2021Whether you know you have a thyroid condition or have symptoms you can't seem to find the right answers to resolve them, this episode is for you.Denise Roguz is the co-founder, owner, and operator of ThyroidChange. It is a collaborative network, health information website, and social media campaign. It unites an international community of medical professionals and patients under the same innovative vision: patients need personalized thyroid care for optimal wellness.Her passion stemming from her own 17 years journey to get diagnosed and treated for her condition shines through in this episode which promises to open your eyes, educate you, and empower you on your journey.In this episode we cover:Why thyroid conditions are hard to diagnoseWhat tests your doctor should order - it's more than TSHTypes of thyroid conditionsWhat to expect once you are diagnosed"TSH is not the only test. It's one piece of the puzzle of maybe how or why your thyroid is working, but it's not the only one. So the question is, how do I know how my doctor is interpreting the labs?" - Denise RoguzResourcesTalk to your doctor printable PDFRecommended Books on Chronic and Autoimmune Diseases Resources and episodes on Thyroid Disease 🎧 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**