Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

Learn about endometriosis and pelvic health physical therapy to manage chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Caitlyn Tivy shares her experience and expertise to help women find relief.Episode SummaryIn this final episode of Fempower Health's four-part series on endometriosis, Dr. Caitlyn Tivy, a distinguished pelvic health physical therapist, shares the intricacies of managing endometriosis and pelvic pain. With a foundation in biomedical research and specialized training in pelvic floor physical therapy, Dr. Tivy emphasizes the importance of patient involvement, holistic treatment strategies, and the role of emotional health in physical well-being. She highlights innovative developments in telemedicine and the exploration of the vaginal microbiome as promising avenues for future advancements in pelvic health care. We discuss the intersection of physical health, PTSD, and trauma history in pelvic pain treatment. Key TakeawaysHow combining manual therapies, patient education, and at-home care can lead to significant improvements in managing endometriosis pelvic painWhy being an active participant in your endometriosis treatment plan can dramatically impact pain management How telehealth is breaking barriers to access pelvic pain treatment, offering new hope to those in remote or underserved areasThe latest research on how the vaginal microbiome impacts pelvic health and what it means for the future of pelvic pain treatmentHow the brain and nervous system contribute to your experience of endometriosis and pelvic painWhy consulting with a pelvic floor physical therapist post-surgery can improve your recovery processMyths around pelvic floor exercises like Kegels vs. their appropriate role and application in pelvic pain therapyA complex story about an endometriosis patient and the multifaceted approach to her recovery"How can we turn down that person's fire alarm so that the rest of their body isn't getting inundated by this irritating stimulus? Even if someone hasn't had surgery or doesn't intend on having surgery—or is not a candidate for some reason—there's still a lot that we can do to help people manage their ‘pain’ alarm system. We can create self-care strategies that keep their alarm quiet long-term." - Dr. Caitlyn TivyRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Endometriosis Follow Caitlyn Tivy on  LinkedIn and her websitePart 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient SupportPart 2 of 4: Endometriosis Care, Treatment Options, and Patient AdvocacyPart 3 of 4: Endometriosis Surgery, Recovery, and Personalized Care🎧 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** Guest BioCaitlyn is a medical communicator with a deep commitment to inclusive health care, bridging the gap between complex scientific data and accessible information for all genders. Her journey began in biomedical research, transitioning to clinical care as a pelvic health physical therapist, where she gained insights into the effects of endometriosis and similar conditions. Since 2021, Caitlyn has been innovating in the femtech and startup sector, co-creating a virtual women's health program that tackles pelvic pain and urinary incontinence. As the president of C Tivy Consulting, she champions effective communication for health companies serving women, men, and the LGBTQIA community. Connect with Caitlyn on LinkedIn and her website to explore the intersection of health communication and technology.**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. Shanti Mohling shares the details of endometriosis surgery, recovery, and pelvic floor therapy as important treatment options for patients with this condition.Episode SummaryIn this third episode of Fempower Health's series on endometriosis, Dr. Shanti Mohling, a minimally invasive surgeon, who devotes her clinical activity to patients with pelvic pain and endometriosis, explores the importance of excision surgery, the challenges of diagnosing and treating endometriosis, and strategies for managing its recurrence. She emphasizes the need for early detection, multidisciplinary approaches, and personalized care in improving outcomes for those affected by this complex condition.Key TakeawaysWhy surgery is the most effective treatment for endometriosis and how to find a doctor trained in endometriosis excision surgery. Screening and early detection of endometriosis, especially in adolescence, to prevent more invasive procedures later in life.Advantages of taking a multidisciplinary approach to endometriosis treatment and healthcare in general.Difficulties in diagnosing endometriosis, especially through imaging tests.Surgery's role in improving fertility, debunking myths such as pregnancy as a cure for endometriosis.Benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy to manage endometriosis and pelvic pain effectively.What the healing process of endometriosis surgery entails.The complexity of healthcare for endometriosis patients and the value of raising awareness and understanding of the condition."I think a lot of disease that recurs is inadequately treated, and yet we call it recurrent. It's really just persistent, not recurrent is my guess." - Dr. Shanti MohlingRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Endometriosis Follow Dr. Shanti Mohling on InstagramLearn more about Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery in Portland, OregonPart 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient SupportPart 2 of 4: Endometriosis Care, Treatment Options, and Patient Advocacy🎧 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** Guest BioDr. Shanti Mohling completed medical school and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Colorado and has been board certified since 2003. She spent 15 years in private practice in New Mexico. In 2014 she returned to training and completed a fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecology (MIGS) at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga. She served as faculty and Director of Gynecology in Chattanooga through 2019. In Spring of 2021, Dr. Mohling joined Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery in Portland, Oregon. She now devotes her clinical activity to patients with pelvic pain and endometriosis.**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**

Katie Boyce shares her expert insights on endometriosis care, treatment options, and the importance of patient advocacy for long-term management. DetailsEpisode SummaryIn this second episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, we speak with guest Katie Boyce, a Board Certified Patient Advocate with a robust background in biochemistry and astrophysics. We discuss the complexities of endometriosis care from patient and specialist perspectives. We explore the treatment options for endometriosis as well as its causes and the critical importance of specialized care. Through Katie's personal journey with endometriosis and her experience working with endometriosis patients, she shares expert insights on the nuances of endometriosis diagnosis, the controversy surrounding various treatments, and the hopeful future of new medical advancements.Key TakeawaysWhat makes endometriosis a particularly challenging condition to understand, diagnose, and treatPros and cons of popular endometriosis treatments, including the debated use of drugs like Lupron and Orilissa, and what the latest research saysThe critical role of expert surgery for endometriosis and fertility concerns, and why choosing the right surgeon matters for long-term outcomesHow endometriosis patients can navigate the healthcare system to find the best care for endometriosis, including tips for vetting doctors and making informed treatment decisions.Promising new treatments for endometriosis and the future of research in the field, offering hope to those affected by the condition"The journey to managing endometriosis is as much about empowerment and informed choices as it is about medical treatment." - Katie BoyceRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Endometriosis Connect with Kate Boyce and follow her on InstagramPart 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support🎧 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** Guest BioKatie is a board-certified patient advocate, owner of Endo Solutions LLC, and consulting chemist with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. She assists individuals in finding the right integrative healthcare team needed to navigate the complexities of living with Endometriosis. Additionally, Katie educates and empowers patients on social media, working to bridge the gap between healthcare providers, researchers, and patients. She serves as a consumer reviewer for evaluating medical research applications submitted to the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, reflecting her commitment to ensuring the patient's voice is heard and that research initiatives align with tangible patient outcomes**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 first episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, Margaret Melville of Lasa Health joins to discuss this underrepresented condition. Margaret transformed her decade-long struggle with endometriosis and celiac disease into a mission to improve women’s healthcare today. She talks about the alarming shortage of OB-GYNs and primary care providers who have specialized training in endometriosis and the importance of early diagnosis of endometriosis to manage this progressive disease. We explore common misconceptions and myths about endometriosis, the dangers of false cures, and the importance of patient advocacy and clinician education. We also cover the many applications of Lasa Health, a technology platform designed for women with chronic pelvic pain. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the complexities of endometriosis and pelvic pain or find endometriosis support.Key Takeaways The importance of early diagnosis for effective management of endometriosis and prevention of chronic pain or organ lossThe need for clinicians to educate themselves and their patients about endometriosis, self-advocacy, and treatment optionsMargaret’s background in global health innovation and the founding of Lasa Health, which improves diagnosis and pain management of endometriosis through technology and educationReal-life applications of AI in improving patient care qualitySystemic issues in healthcare that hinder effective diagnosis and treatment of endometriosisFalse “cures” of endometriosis to be aware ofThe future of endometriosis care, including further innovation and community advocacyA preview of upcoming episodes, including interviews with endometriosis specialists, advocates, and surgeons"You have bias and you have years of things being done a certain way that we're fighting against. Getting doctors and healthcare administrators who are so busy and have so many [responsibilities]... Getting them to care about pelvic pain, or changing the way things are done at their hospital or clinic to improve care for pelvic pain patients, that is a monumental hurdle." - Margaret MelvilleRelated to this episode:Resources for EndometriosisLearn more about Lasa Health: www.lasahealth.com Follow Margaret on LinkedIn🎧 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** Guest BioMargaret Melville is the CEO & Cofounder of Lasa Health. She suffered from pelvic pain for over a decade and visited 25 doctors before finally being diagnosed with endometriosis and celiac disease. Margaret previously worked at USAID's Global Health Center for Innovation and co-founded a medical device startup. She has an MBA from INSEAD. She is passionate about using AI / ML to revolutionize the way we diagnose and care for women with chronic health conditions. **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**

Learn what’s to come in psychedelic therapy research including risk mitigation, contraindications, and treatment purposes as Andrew Penn explores this important subject.Episode SummaryIn this conversation, Andrew Penn, co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses (OPENurses), discusses the use of psychedelics in therapy and the challenges and concerns surrounding this emerging field. He addresses psychedelic misconceptions and hype, emphasizing the need for more research and caution. He also explores the potential benefits and risks of psychedelic retreats as well as the importance of psychedelic harm reduction. Penn highlights the specific considerations for using psychedelics in individuals with bipolar disorder and the need for further study in this area. Additionally, he discusses the potential impact of hormonal factors on psychedelic therapy and the recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression. This conversation explores the manifestation of depression, contraindications for psychedelic use, serotonin syndrome, and the future of psychedelics.Discussed in this episode: The need for psychedelic therapy research to separate the hype from the realityHarm reduction strategies, such as safe spaces and support, in the use of psychedelicsRisks of bipolar disorder and psychedelics and the careful considerations to understandInteractions between psychedelics and hormones and the need for more researchThe recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression in mental health careContraindications for psychedelic use, including a history of psychosis, cardiovascular disorders, and certain medicationsThe dangers of serotonin syndrome that can occur from the over-use of psychedelics The use of psychedelics in clinical vs. non-clinical settings "One myth to unpack is this idea that [psychedelic use] is ‘one and done’ and ‘curative.’ And frankly, I was part of that hype at the beginning, too, because in our very early studies, that's what we were starting to see." - Andrew PennRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Listen to the series on Psychedelic-Assisted TherapyLearn more about the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic NursesStay in touch with Andrew Penn on his website and LinkedIn.Check out Unseen Women in Psychedelic History by Maria Mangini🎧 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** Guest BioAndrew Penn, MS, PMHNP is a psychiatric nurse practitioner, clinical professor at the UC San Francisco School of Nursing, and a researcher on psychedelic therapies at the UCSF Translational Psychedelic Research Program (TrPR). He has been an investigator in studies examining MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, on psilocybin-assisted therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease and depression, and was a co-PI on the phase 2 study of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression, recently published in JAMA. An internationally invited speaker, he has taught at SXSW, TEDx, Aspen Institute, and the Singapore Ministry of Health. Additionally, he has published widely on psychedelic therapies and their intersections with nursing and is the co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses. He can be found at AndrewPennNP.com.**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**

Listen to Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, physician and attorney, discuss the safety, legal, and clinical considerations regarding psychedelic therapy in the U.S.Episode SummaryIn this second episode of the three-part series on psychedelic-assisted therapy, Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, a physician and attorney specializing in psychedelics, discusses various aspects of psychedelics and their integration into healthcare. Dr. Morski shares her journey and how she became passionate about educating clinicians on psychedelic medicine. We discuss the current legality of psychedelics in healthcare, safety concerns, and the lack of protocols. Dr. Morski talks about what to consider when choosing a psychedelic therapy provider, emphasizing the importance of training, ethics, and safety measures. We touch on the debate of whether therapists should have personal psychedelic experiences before offering guided psychedelic therapy, and the potential for psychedelics to become part of mainstream healthcare. Listen to this insightful conversation to explore the challenges of psychedelic therapy, the potential benefits of psychedelics for women's health, and advice for physicians and patients interested in exploring psychedelic treatments. Learn about the exciting developments in psychedelic research, including the investigation of psychedelics for stroke recovery and the exploration of non-hallucinatory psychedelics.Key TakeawaysThe need for clinician education on the use and potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapyThe legality of psychedelics as medical treatment medicine in the U.S.The need for safety protocols and guidelines in psychedelic therapy The importance of vetting facilitators and retreat centers that offer psychedelic therapies, and how to go about that process The debate on whether therapists should have personal psychedelic experiences to have common ground with patientsLegal challenges and potential lawsuits that currently limit the mainstream use of psychedelics in healthcare“There are a lot of things you can do [when choosing guided psychedelic therapy]. But pay attention to your intuition because you are handing over your consciousness to this person. And if you have any doubts in your gut about that, that's going to be setting you up for failure from the beginning." — Dr Lynn Marie Morski Related to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Listen to the series on Psychedelic-Assisted TherapyCheck out the Psychedelic Medicine Association or follow them on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram Check out the Psychedelic Medicine Podcast.  Follow on Twitter, Facebook and InstagramStay in touch with Dr Lynn Marie Morski 🎧 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** Guest BioLynn Marie Morski, MD, JD, is the president of the Psychedelic Medicine Association, host of the Psychedelic Medicine Podcast, and the Director of Education at Unlimited Sciences. She sits on the advisory boards of Psychedelics Today, Cybin, VETS, Inc. (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions), the Oxenberg Foundation, and the Ketamine Task Force.Dr. Morski received her medical degree from St. Louis University School of Medicine, completed family medicine residency at Mayo Clinic, and did her sports medicine fellowship at the University of Arizona. She later received her law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and is a member of the California Bar.**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**

Learn about the ethics and healthcare policies involved in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert join to discuss the implications.Episode SummaryWelcome to the first episode in our three-part series where we explore the world of psychedelic therapy. In this episode, health policy experts Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert join to discuss the experiences of psychedelic-assisted therapy and its profound social implications. This series aims to uncover the complexities and potential of psychedelic mental health treatment options.Key TakeawaysControversial medical debate on whether psychedelic therapy practitioners should have personal psychedelic experiencesConcerns around cultural appropriation in psychedelic therapies and the need for respectful acknowledgment of indigenous practicesThe complexity of patient-clinician dynamics if a patient prefers a provider who has personal experience of their conditionSignificance of professional practice guidelines that ensure ethical and culturally sensitive approaches in guided psychedelic therapyThe future of psychedelics in therapy and its potential to revolutionize mental health careEnjoy this insightful first episode as we unravel psychedelics and mental health with Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline Lampert. Tune in for the next two episodes of this exciting series dedicated to exploring psychedelic therapy research.Related to this episode:Resources for Mental HealthLearn more about the Rockingstone GroupConnect with Jordanna Davis and Jacqueline LampertArticle on first NDA for psychedelics🎧 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**

Welcome to Season 5 of Fempower Health where we empower you to advocate for your health through every stage of life. Every week, we engage in discussions with women’s health experts on topics like sexual wellness, mental health, pelvic floor, aging, women-related cancers, relationships, and much more.Some topics we’ll cover in Season 5 include:Psychedelics Deep Dive: Navigating Health Policy, Ethical Practice, and Cultural Considerations, Integration into Healthcare, and the Latest Psychedelic Research and Mental Health ImplicationsEndometriosis Deep Dive: The Path to Earlier Endometriosis Diagnosis, A Deep Dive into Endometriosis Pathophysiology Diagnostics, and Treatments, Expert Perspective on Laparoscopy, and a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist's Tips for Managing Pelvic PainA Discussion on Tongue Tie & BreastfeedingMetabolic Health Specific to Women Hysterectomies: Do You Need One and If you Do, What to Prepare forFertility Treatments: Discussing Atypical Patient Use CasesC-Sections: Nothing but the FactsSpecial thanks to Jordanna Davis, Jacqueline Lampert, Dr. Lynn Marie Morski, Andrew Penn, RN, MS, NP Katie Boyce, BCPA, Dr. Shanti Mohling, Caitlyn Tivy, DPT, Margaret Melville, Justine Witzke, Victoria Facelli, and all who helped make these women’s health episodes accessible to all. 🎧 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**

If you’ve ever heard that menopausal hormone therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer, this new health report may surprise you. In this bonus episode, women’s health and menopause management expert Dr. Mindy Goldman sheds light on the complex world of Menopause Hormone Therapy. We explore pivotal insights from the Ester Trial, revealing potentially safer transdermal estrogen. We talk about a fascinating Today article that uncovers the impact of statistical manipulation on reported studies, especially concerning the relationship between breast cancer and hormone therapy.Dr. Mindy Goldman shares her expert opinion on how estrogen alone might be safer than we thought, and why synthetic progesterone requires a closer look. We also discuss the controversial use of testosterone in women, the challenges with federal laws, and FDA-approved options for improving libido.Dr. Goldman is a Clinical Professor in the Department of OB/GYN at UCSF and the Director of the Gynecology Center for Cancer Survivors and At-Risk Women. In addition to her role as Midi’s Chief Clinical Officer, she’s a nationally recognized expert in the management of women’s health issues, including menopause, for women with cancer or at high risk. She helped author guidelines for the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and has won several notable awards.Discussed in this episode:Dr. Mindy’s work with breast cancer survivors as an OBGYNCommon myths of menopause hormone therapyA discussion on the ESTHER Study and recent menopause data release in TodayRisks and safety of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone therapyFDA-approved drugs for women’s sexual function Gender disparities in medical research Hormone therapies and other treatment options for high-risk populations such as cancer survivors Menopause symptoms in breast cancer treatment Hormone therapies, medications, and lifestyle strategies as post-cancer treatment options Dr. Mindy Goldman’s professional experience as a menopause advocate combining breast oncology with gynecology“It's important to realize that there aren't national guidelines that talk about the use of hormones in people at high risk for cancer, which includes people with a family history, people who have had prior biopsies with atypical change, people with genetic mutations, and people with cancer. The standard of care has always been not to use hormones in those situations because the thought was that hormones could increase the risk of breast cancer or increase the behavior of breast cancer.” - Dr Mindy GoldmanRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter Menopause health report (Dec 2023): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37847875 ESTHER Study: Learn more.Dr. Goldman’s story: www.joinmidi.com/post/mindy-goldman Dr. Mindy Goldman on LinkedinMidi Health: www.joinmidi.com Menopause book recommendations: www.bookshop.org/lists/top-picks-for-menopause 🎧 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 are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain and debilitating periods. Up to 80% of women may experience fibroids before the age of 50, but this condition remains under-researched and misunderstood. In this episode, Tanika Gray Valbrun joins to discuss uterine fibroid facts and share hope for women grappling with this condition. She tells her story, voicing her commitment to raising awareness through her organization, The White Dress Project. Tanika leads the conversation about patient-doctor communication, listening to women’s voices, and the importance of community support. We discuss the link between black women and fibroids, and consider why there remains a lack of research in women’s reproductive health.Tanika Gray Valbrun is the Founder and Senior Advocate of The White Dress Project, a non-profit organization committed to spreading uterine fibroids awareness. Ms. Valbrun is an award-winning journalist, educator, and non-profit founder with a passion for women’s health. She works with doctors, health advocates, and elected officials across the country to get legislation passed, including having July declared as “Fibroids Awareness Month.”Discussed in this episode:Facts about uterine fibroidsTanika’s experience of uterine fibroids, surgery, and advocacyRacial disparities regarding uterine fibroidsPatient advocacy when communicating with healthcare providersUterine fibroid treatment optionsChallenges in women’s health research today The White Dress Project and its influence on women’s access to uterine fibroid support“I always say that a patient's story is data, especially with something like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or PCOS. There are variations in how it can show up in your body.” - Tanika Gray ValbrunRelated to this episode:Related Episode: Uterine Fibroids and Heavy PeriodsRelated Episode: Uterine Fibroids | Minimally Invasive Surgeon Dr. Jessica Opoku-AnaneRelated Episode: Uterine Fibroids and the Need for Better Standard of CareThe White Dress Project: www.thewhitedressproject.org White Dress Project Instagram: @wecanwearwhite Tankika’s Instagram: @tgvwearswhiteTwitter: @wecan_wearwhiteFacebook/Meta: The White Dress Project: We CAN Wear WhiteMentioned: 'Sex Matters' by Dr. Allison McGregorAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: www.acog.org Recommended Books on Your Body and Menstrual 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**