Hearing the voices and stories of those living with endometriosis is a powerful way to build community awareness, reduce stigma and misunderstandings, connect with others experiencing the condition and help others feel less alone.

In this episode, we are joined by multi-media professional and experienced television presenter Julie Snook as she shares her personal journey of endometriosis, experience since her teenage years. Julie shares with us the impact of her 13 surgeries, the impact a supportive workplace can have, and why it is vital to share your experiences and build a village of support.

Tune into this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and feel more empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Hosts and Guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Julie Snook - https://endometriosisaustralia.org/our-people/ambassadors/julie-snook/

Julie’s recommendations

• EndoThrive Workplace Accreditation Program - https://endometriosisaustralia.org/our-work/endo-at-work-program/endothrive-workplace-support-endometriosis/

Key resources

Endo Help - https://endohelp.com.au/

Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics (government-funded) - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/endometriosis-and-pelvic-pain-clinics?language=en

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

QENDO - https://www.qendo.org.au/

Gender-affirming services and resources

Although the podcast refers to ‘women’, Connect acknowledges that those experiencing pelvic pain and associated conditions are part of a diverse community with various identities. For resources designed for those who are gender-diverse and experiencing pelvic pain please refer to:

• Endometriosis Coalition - https://www.acendo.com.au/gender-diverse-people-endometriosis
• Endometriosis WA - https://www.endometriosiswa.org.au/im-seeking-support/endometriosis-and-gender-diversity/
• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/

When it comes to treating pelvic pain, it can be overwhelming to know what the treatment is, or what treatments are available to you. Associate Professor Pav Nanayakkara returns to Connect Talks to unpack and help us understand the various treatments options available for someone experiencing pelvic pain.

In this episode Dr. Pav will discuss medicinal, psychological, physical and surgical treatments, how to determine what the right options are and where to seek support in making these decisions. We will explore options which make treatment more accessible, including government funded pelvic pain clinics, and how to support those who are culturally and linguistically diverse or gender-diverse.

Tune into this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and feel more empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Hosts and Guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Associate Professor Pav Nanayakkara - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/clinician/associate-professor-pav-nanayakkara/

Key resources

• Endo Help - https://endohelp.com.au/
• Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics (government-funded) - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/endometriosis-and-pelvic-pain-clinics?language=en
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/
• QENDO - https://www.qendo.org.au/

Gender-affirming services and resources

Although the podcast refers to ‘women’, Connect acknowledges that those experiencing pelvic pain and associated conditions are part of a diverse community with various identities. For resources designed for those who are gender-diverse and experiencing pelvic pain please refer to:

• Endometriosis Coalition - https://www.acendo.com.au/gender-diverse-people-endometriosis
• Endometriosis WA - https://www.endometriosiswa.org.au/im-seeking-support/endometriosis-and-gender-diversity/
• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/

The diagnosis of a pelvic pain condition isn’t always easy, with many experiencing years of misdiagnosis or even no diagnosis. So, how does having a team of healthcare professionals affirming your experiences impact the journey?

Associate Professor Pav Nanayakkara joins us for an information-packed episode to help individuals at all stages of their pelvic pain experience understand just how important it is to seek supportive, personalised care. From diagnosis and treatment to surgery and seeking a second opinion, Dr Pav will leave you feeling informed, empowered and ready to advocate for yourself and your pelvic pain.

Tune into this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and feel more empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Hosts and Guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Associate Professor Pav Nanayakkara - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/clinician/associate-professor-pav-nanayakkara/

Key resources

• Endo Help - https://endohelp.com.au/
• Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics (government-funded) - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/endometriosis-and-pelvic-pain-clinics?language=en
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/
• QENDO - https://www.qendo.org.au/

Gender-affirming services and resources

Although the podcast refers to ‘women’, Connect acknowledges that those experiencing pelvic pain and associated conditions are part of a diverse community with various identities. For resources designed for those who are gender-diverse and experiencing pelvic pain please refer to:

• Endometriosis Coalition - https://www.acendo.com.au/gender-diverse-people-endometriosis
• Endometriosis WA - https://www.endometriosiswa.org.au/im-seeking-support/endometriosis-and-gender-diversity/
• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/

Today we start our exploration into pelvic pain with Dr Shamitha Kathurusinghe, a highly sought-after specialist gynaecologist with expertise in complex gynaecological surgeries.

Join us as we learn about a range of pelvic pain conditions, including endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and adenomyosis. Dr Shami also discusses with us who lives with these conditions, what symptoms someone may experience along their journey, and the physical, mental and social impacts of pelvic pain.

Tune into this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and feel more empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Hosts and Guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Dr Shami Kathurusinghe - https://drshamikath.com/

Key resources

• Endo Help - https://endohelp.com.au/
• Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics (government-funded) - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/endometriosis-and-pelvic-pain-clinics?language=en
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/
• QENDO - https://www.qendo.org.au/

Gender-affirming services and resources

Although the podcast refers to ‘women’, Connect acknowledges that those experiencing pelvic pain and associated conditions are part of a diverse community with various identities. For resources designed for those who are gender-diverse and experiencing pelvic pain please refer to:

• Endometriosis Coalition - https://www.acendo.com.au/gender-diverse-people-endometriosis
• Endometriosis WA - https://www.endometriosiswa.org.au/im-seeking-support/endometriosis-and-gender-diversity/
• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/

Cancer, perimenopause and menopause – living through one life change can be challenging enough, but two can flip your world upside down. This was the reality of Sonya Lovell, who at 47 was diagnosed with breast cancer and pushed into medically-induced menopause.

In this powerful episode, Sonya will share her experiences, advice and story– one which those experiencing a chronic health or a mental health condition, alongside perimenopause and menopause may feel a strong connection to.

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Sonya Lovell - https://www.sonyalovell.com/

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Sonya’s recommendations

• Healthy Hormones - https://www.healthyhormones.au/welcome
• Questions You’re Allowed to Ask: A conversation companion for menopause after cancer for medical appointments, relationships, work, and family - https://www.sonyalovell.com/download

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf

Major life changes and work don’t always go hand-in-hand, but the experience doesn’t have to be difficult one.

In this episode, Thea O’Connor - expert on all thing's perimenopause, menopause and work - will help us navigate the challenges many of us face. We will cover common barriers and stigma, advocating for a more inclusive workplace environment and more!

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Thea O’Connor - https://www.thea.com.au/menopause-at-work/

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Thea’s recommendations

• Menopause Information Pack for Organizations - Menopause at Work - https://www.menopauseatwork.org/
• Thea’s TEDx talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abxcO2ur_m4
• Menopause at Work – The Orca Effect program - https://www.thea.com.au/menopause-at-work/education/the-orca-effect/
• More recommendations and resources - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qnk2sir8nrzalsvw94ilf/Helpful-Menopause-Resources.pdf?rlkey=j05k0v2e45sqt5ziv8ba1shsl&e=1&dl=0

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf

As we’ve discussed, there’s a range of treatment options available when navigating perimenopause and menopause but sometimes lifestyle changes can be just as effective as medical options to help you get a handle on it all.

In this episode, holistic General Practitioner (GP) Dr Michelle Woolhouse dives into the lifestyle factors that can influence perimenopause and menopause. From the best foods to add to your diet to how movement and sleep can affect symptoms, she provides practical insights into how different ways of living can transform your menopausal journey and your long-term health, such as heart health.

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Dr Michelle Woolhouse - https://www.drmichellewoolhouse.com/

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Michelle’s recommendations

• Sleep with Confidence Psychology Services - https://sleepwithconfidence.com.au/
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi) Provider Directory - https://sleepcentral.org.au/Central/Central/Contents/CBTi-directory.aspx
• Resources for metabolic health - https://www.vively.com.au/
• Hypnotherapy for Hot Flashes – https://www.nervahealth.com/post/hypnotherapy-for-hot-flashes-the-mind-body-connection

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf

From brain fog and forgetfulness, to anxiety and depression, perimenopause and menopause can play havoc on our mental health and wellbeing. It can be a difficult journey, but there is support and treatment options out there.

Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM, expert in psychiatry and women’s health, is passionate about improving the mental health and wellbeing of those in the life stages of perimenopause and menopause. This is an important episode which affirms and empowers the experiences that many have, but feel alone in.

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Dr Jayashri Kulkarni - https://www.monash.edu/medicine/her-centre

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Jayashri’s recommendations

• Mental health helplines - https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-helplines

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf

Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) has received a lot of interest over the years – both good and bad – which means there is a lot of information out there, making is hard to decide what the right choice is.

Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM, expert in psychiatry and women’s health, will help us debunk the myths, understand the facts and empower us to make informed decisions to ease the perimenopause and menopause journey through the use of MHT.

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Dr Jayashri Kulkarni - https://www.monash.edu/medicine/her-centre

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf

It can be difficult to feel like you have autonomy when going through perimenopause and menopause – major life changes, non-affirming care and unexpected symptoms can take the control out of your hands.

In this episode Dr Sonia Davison, endocrinologist at the Jean Hailes Medical Centre, will be helping us take that control back. Learn about the power of preventative screening, where to access affirming care, information and support and how patient-led advocacy can lead to impactful outcomes.

Tune in to this episode and the rest of the season to find out more and to feel empowered about your own health and wellbeing.

Host and guests

• Connect - https://www.moira.org.au/connect/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Key websites

• Australasian Menopause Society - https://www.menopause.org.au/
• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health - https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Sonia’s recommendations

• Australasian Menopause Society - Find a Practitioner - https://www.menopause.org.au/find-a-practitioner/
• Better Health Channel - https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/
• Endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/endometriosis-and-pelvic-pain-clinics?language=en

Gender-affirming services and resources

• Thorne Harbour Health - https://thorneharbour.org/services/
• Trans Hub - https://www.transhub.org.au/our-health/menopause-oestrogen-cessation/

Trackers and score cards

• Australasian Menopause Society Symptom Score Card - https://hub.menopause.org.au/Play?pId=889f06fe-8b48-4140-9cac-a828400d7ea8
• Jean Hailes perimenopause and menopause checklist - https://jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf
• Balance app by Dr Louise Newson - https://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/
• HER Centre Australia MENO-D (depression in menopause) tracker – https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf