Dear Menopause

Dr Ceri Cashell's journey into improving the menopause care she gave patients, as a GP, was sparked by one patient's suggestion that she learn more about testosterone. This led her to explore and become a vocal champion for the essential role of sex hormones in women's overall well-being.

Join us as we talk through the complexities of menopause care, especially from a GP's perspective. Ceri is passionate about the need for real-world solutions that cater to the diverse and real needs of women globally.

Ceri shares her takeaways from the recent International Menopause Society Symposium we both attended and also shares her reaction to the recommendations tabled from the recent Senate Inquiry.

We delve into exciting innovations in menopause healthcare, including the benefits of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) for bone, cardiac, and mental health. We also unpack the need for progressive healthcare changes in Australia, specifically improving equity and accessibility to good menopause care and affordable, if not free, medications.

Learn about the new platform for both patients and practitioners that Ceri has co-founded, called Healthy Hormones which is changing the face of menopause education and support for all Australians.

Links:
Healthy Hormones website
So Hot Right Now event - Sydney Opera House 1st March 2025

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Join me for an enlightening conversation with Senator Marielle Smith as we explore the transformative Senate Inquiry into Perimenopause and Menopause in Australia. 

Over the past year, this Inquiry gathered insights from over 300 submissions, culminating in 25 key recommendations supported across political lines by the Liberal Party, Labor, and the Greens. 

Senator Smith provides a behind-the-scenes look at how these recommendations aim to improve women's healthcare and workplace conditions during this critical life stage. Discover the collaborative efforts that brought diverse voices to the forefront, highlighting the essential need for enhanced support and resources for women.

We address the stark gaps in medical education and societal support, probing why many women rely on unregulated online sources for vital menopause information. 

The discussion extends to the broader societal issue of how women's health concerns tend to be sidelined after childbirth and the push for a national awareness campaign to normalise menopause discussions. 

Celebrating the passionate advocacy of women who have tirelessly worked to keep menopause in the public eye, we underscore their crucial role in fostering ongoing dialogue and driving change. 

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How does an experienced women's health advocate struggle to recognise her own perimenopausal symptoms?

Join me as I explore Johanna Wicks' journey from confusion to advocacy, sparked by Dr. Ginni Mansberg's enlightening book, "The M Word." Jo's story reveals a significant gap in women's health education and sets the stage for her influential role in the national conversation on menopause in Australia. Through powerful initiatives, Jo has reshaped the landscape of menopause awareness and policy.

We'll take you behind the scenes of a groundbreaking event at Parliament House, where collaboration became the cornerstone of impactful change. Thanks to the support of the Parliamentary Friends of Women's Health, this initiative transformed into a successful Parliamentary Roundtable. Hear about the diverse voices that shaped the event, including Dr Ginni Mansberg and Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, and how their insights resonated with parliament members. These efforts laid the groundwork for ongoing meetings with experts and officials, paving the way for perimenopause to gain recognition at a national level.

As advocacy goes global, we're urging you to leverage your voice and voting power to push for the implementation of 25 Senate inquiry recommendations on menopause. With an upcoming election, public pressure is key to ensuring women's health moves to the top of political agendas.

We highlight the need for broader government action, such as a public awareness campaign for younger generations. Our conversation underscores the evolving narrative of menopause, from a hidden issue to a mainstream movement, fueled by passionate advocates and influential media initiatives.

We wrap the episode up with the introduction of a new segment in which Jo and I unpack what's happening in the menopause zeitgeist in real time!

Links discussed in this episode
Email Template for sending to government, opposition and local members provided by Wellfemme
Article in The Guardian UK by Kate Muir on bone health
The (M) Factor Film by Tamsen Fadal
The M Word Book by Dr Ginni Mansberg

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The question Dr Kelly Teagle has for women is what will it cost you if you don't create healthy habits and make meaningful lifestyle changes now, while you're still young enough for it to make a big impact?

 In 10 to 20 years, will you be functioning well and still doing all the things that give your life meaning?  

In this episode, Dr Kelly, a leading GP specialising in women's health, shares her expertise on how comprehensive menopausal health education, support and bedding down healthy habits early makes for a smoother menopausal transition.  

You can also return to the library to listen to Episode 31 which is my last conversation with Dr Kelly.

Resources:

Next Phase Women’s Wellness Program
* For $50 off the Next Phase Program, use Discount Code: DEARMENO

Wellfemme

Wellfemme on Instagram

Wellfemme on Facebook

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As one of your guides through the ever-shifting landscape of menopause, I'm hitting pause on the podcast to recharge my batteries.

But only for 3 short weeks!!

Dear Menopause will be back with episode 94 on Friday 22nd March 2024.

Make sure you're subscribed or following the podcast to ensure you are notified when the episode drops.

While I'm off savouring the joys of travel and adventure, you can use the opportunity to head back into the episode archives to discover stories that you may have missed.

Don't forget to leave your mark with a review or rating, and if you're puzzled by midlife's mysteries, take The Midlife Quiz.

See you soon!

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Menopause can leave many women feeling dry, itchy and irritated particularly when it comes to changes in skin health.

Join me as Dr Shreya Andric, a leading dermatologist who also specialises in vulvar dermatology, shares her expertise on how declining estrogen and progesterone influence our skin during perimenopause and postmenopause.

Dr Andric shares tips on embracing gentle skincare routines to maintain your skin's vitality and resilience.

Our chat offers a compassionate guide for women to face these skin challenges confidently and with a little less dryness!

Key Points Discussed:
Dr. Andric's Approach: Dr. Andric shares her expertise on embracing gentle skincare routines during these transitional years.

Genital Skin Health: A crucial yet sensitive topic, Dr.Andric highlights the importance of recognising symptoms early and seeking professional medical advice.

Resources:
North Shore Dermatology
Dr Shreya Andric's Instagram
Dr Shreya Andric's Website
Only Murders In The Building - Disney+

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In this episode, I share 3 essential tips for those days when perimenopause is really kicking your butt, that you can get started with today.

The focus is on journaling to keep track of symptoms, how to find a supportive healthcare professional, and small mindful lifestyle changes.

These steps are vital for taking back control of your health and choices at a time when you may feel completely out of control.

Key Points Discussed:
1. Journaling for Symptom Tracking: I highlight the importance of journaling and tracking symptoms to become an expert on your body. Tracking symptoms and concerns is a significant benefit to facilitating effective conversations with your healthcare professional.

2. Finding A Supportive Healthcare Provider: I emphasise seeking referrals from friends and family for experienced women's health professionals and sharing resources like the Australasian Menopause Society website for finding the right support.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments: I share personal experiences and insights into lifestyle changes that can significantly impact perimenopause symptoms, like modifying alcohol consumption to manage hot flashes better.

Resources:
Take the perimenopause quiz
Find an AMS-registered Doctor

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Have you wished that you could find a Doctor who weaves the wisdom of Eastern traditions with Western medical science?

In this conversation with Dr Fatima Khan, we cover everything from hormone health to the influential role of our elders, reminding us that this phase is not just about changes but about adaptation and growth.

Hormones can be a rollercoaster, and Dr Khan is no stranger to their ups and downs. Sharing experiences of her hormonal imbalances, this honest conversation with Dr. Khan highlights the need for clear, accurate education on hormone health.

We debunk myths and alleviate fears, emphasising that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) isn't a one-size-fits-all solution but part of a spectrum of options that cater to a woman's unique body and life. It's about finding balance and embracing lifestyle modifications that synergize with medical interventions to navigate these years with grace and vitality.

As we wrap up our conversation, we turn our focus to the evolving landscape of women's healthcare.

Discussing the need for more in-depth research and better access to specialised care, acknowledging the rich, complex lives women lead well beyond menopause. From heart to bone health, we underscore the necessity of personalised self-care rituals, challenging the norms that often leave women's health in the shadows.

This episode is a hat tip to the strength of women in their midlife and a treasure trove of insights that will inspire you to cherish and prioritise your well-being as you move into your most liberating years.

Resources:
Dr Khan's website
Dr Khan on Instagram

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Have you ever found yourself in that murky space where your drinking seems more habitual than social, yet not quite what you'd label as addiction?

Join the conversation with Sarah Rusbatch, a distinguished coach navigating the intricacies of grey area drinking. Sarah peels back the layers of her personal narrative, from motherhood to moving abroad, and how these pivotal moments can silently shift our drinking patterns.

We're cracking open the dialogue on the subtle yet undeniable signs of when alcohol begins to take the steering wheel in our lives, and the crucial turning points that beckon a hard look at our relationship with alcohol.

We traverse the societal landscape, from the stigmatisation of sobriety in cultures that celebrate drinking to the pressing health concerns linked to alcohol, like cancer and bone health. It's more than a personal journey; it's a public health conversation we're all a part of.

Sarah's book "Beyond Booze" is available from 30th January 2024.

Resources:
Sarah's Website
Beyond Booze - Sarah's new book
Sarah on Instagram

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