Join Georgie in this heartfelt episode as she reflects on the evolution of Fempower Health, the trusted resource for women and clinicians navigating complex health topics. Discover how community feedback will shape the future of this empowering platform.

In this special episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie shares a heartfelt update about the evolution of the podcast and her decision to take a pause. Reflecting on her journey as a problem solver and advocate for women’s health, Georgie highlights the impact of connecting listeners with hard-to-find experts and providing credible, actionable information.

With the growing conversation around women’s health on social media and the challenge of navigating limited time and trustworthy resources, Georgie explains how this moment of reflection is an opportunity to recalibrate and ensure Fempower Health continues to make a meaningful difference.

Whether you're a woman seeking clarity on your health or a clinician striving to better serve your patients, this episode invites you to be part of the conversation. Share your feedback, join the newsletter, and stay connected as Fempower Health evolves to meet your needs.

Discussion Points

• Why is now the right time to pause and reassess the future of Fempower Health?
• How has the growing conversation on women’s health evolved, and what gaps still exist?
• What makes Fempower Health a trusted resource for women and clinicians?
• How can listeners contribute to shaping the next phase of Fempower Health?
• What lessons can be learned from leaders like Simone Biles about taking a pause to prioritize sustainability?
• Why is credible, expert-driven information still so important in today’s health landscape?
• How does Fempower Health balance deep insights with accessible, actionable advice?
• What role does community feedback play in the evolution of this platform?
• Why is self-advocacy in women’s health more important than ever?
• How can listeners stay connected during this pause in content production?

Stay connected with Fempower Health:

• Visit us online at www.fempower-health.com 
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for the latest announcements, news, and research
• Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
• Email us for inquiries & outreach: [email protected]
• Catch up on Fempower Health Podcast episodes

As the founder of Fempower Health, Georgie has had the privilege of engaging directly with the best minds in healthcare, wellness, and advocacy—challenging them to address the questions that women are asking but the system too often ignores. Her unique position allows her to see the full picture: the patients struggling to navigate their health, the entrepreneurs trying to innovate without support, and the systemic forces keeping real solutions just out of reach.

But women don’t just need answers—they need tools. And so does the industry. She brings years of experience as a strategist and consultant, working at the intersection of healthcare and innovation, to provide those tools. She’s helped clients, audiences, and organizations not just identify problems, but solve them, and she is on a mission to create meaningful change in women’s health.

**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.**

**Contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Discover the truth about menopause with Dr. Lisa Larkin, a renowned expert in women’s health and board member of The Menopause Society. Learn how to navigate menopause myths, misinformation, and gaps in care with actionable, evidence-based insights for women and clinicians alike.

Menopause Myths with Dr Lisa Larkin Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs is joined by Dr. Lisa Larkin, a highly respected women’s health internist with over 35 years of experience in menopause care. Dr. Larkin, a breast cancer survivor and a board member of The Menopause Society, shares her journey as a clinician navigating the evolving landscape of menopausal hormone therapy, dispels common myths, and tackles the misinformation that continues to impact women's lives. Together, they explore the complexities of menopause, including the lack of training among clinicians, the role of technology and social media, and how women can advocate for evidence-based care in a fragmented healthcare system. This conversation is packed with practical insights to empower women and clinicians alike.

• What are the biggest myths about menopause and hormone therapy?
• Why is there so much misinformation about menopause in healthcare and on social media?
• How did the Women’s Health Initiative impact menopause care over the last 20 years?
• Why is it so hard to find menopause-trained doctors, and what can women do about it?
• Are menopause clinics, coaches, and pellets safe options for managing menopause symptoms?
• What is the role of shared decision-making in menopause care?
• How do hormones influence physical and mental health during menopause?
• Why is an integrated care model important for women’s health at midlife?
• How can women distinguish between evidence-based treatments and marketing hype?
• What is the role of social media in empowering women or perpetuating misinformation about menopause?

Related to this Menopause Myths episode:

• Follow Dr Lisa Larkin on Instagram and LinkedIn
• Learn about Ms.Medicine

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Dr. Lisa Larkin, MD, FACP, MSCP, IF, is a Yale and University of Chicago-trained, board-certified internist and women’s health expert with over 30 years of experience. Based in Cincinnati, her career spans academic medicine at the University of Cincinnati, private practice, and leadership roles such as President of The Menopause Society (2023-2024).

As Founder and CEO of Ms.Medicine and Concierge Medicine of Cincinnati, Dr. Larkin is revolutionizing women’s healthcare delivery and education. A nationally recognized expert in menopause management and sexual medicine, she is a prolific speaker, educator, and author, celebrated annually as one of Cincinnati's "Top Docs" since 1991.

A breast cancer survivor, Dr. Larkin’s personal experiences enrich her evidence-based care and advocacy. Frequently featured on CNN, The Today Show, and leading health podcasts, she is committed to empowering women and clinicians with the knowledge needed to advance women’s healthcare.

**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.**

Discover how hormones impact skin during perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Mandy Leonhardt. Learn evidence-based skincare tips, budget-friendly routines, and solutions for healthier skin at any age.

Skincare Tips for Perimenopause & Menopause Episode Summary

In this insightful episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs speaks with Dr. Mandy Leonhardt, menopause specialist and author of What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause. Dr. Leonhardt, a general practitioner trained in menopause care, brings her evidence-based approach to addressing how hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause impact skin and hair. From the science behind hormonal shifts to practical, budget-friendly skincare solutions, this episode empowers women to take control of their health and appearance with confidence. Clinicians will also gain insights into supporting their patients effectively during these life phases.

• What happens to your skin and hair during perimenopause and menopause?
• How do estrogen, cortisol, and progesterone affect skin health?
• What are the signs of perimenopause in your skin and hair?
• Are expensive menopause-targeted skincare products worth it?
• How does stress impact skin, and what can you do about it?
• What is the connection between the gut, microbiome, and skin health?
• Can topical estrogen creams improve skin appearance safely?
• What is the role of vitamin D in maintaining healthy skin?
• Why should you avoid exercising with makeup during menopause?
• How can women build simple, evidence-based skincare routines on a budget?

Related to this Skincare Tips for Perimenopause & Menopause episode:

• Read Dr. Mandy Leonhardt’s books: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause
• Follow Dr. Leonhardt on Instagram

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Dr Mandy Leonhardt is a General Practitioner, certified nutritionist (MNU) and menopause specialist and author of What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Skin and Hair: How the Hormones on the Inside Affect Your Outside and The Complete Guide to POI and Early Menopause. She has a particular interest in women’s hormonal health, lifestyle medicine and nutrition. She lives and works in Hampshire, UK

**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.**

Join globally recognized expert Dr. Ken Sinervo, Medical Director of the Center for Endometriosis Care, as he discusses adenomyosis, its symptoms, impact on fertility, and treatment options. With decades of experience in advanced laparoendoscopic surgery and multidisciplinary care, Dr. Sinervo offers invaluable insights for patients and clinicians. Listen now to learn how to improve diagnosis and navigate treatment effectively.

Adenomyosis Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we explore adenomyosis, a condition that affects millions of women but remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Dr. Ken Sinervo, a renowned gynecologic surgeon and the Medical Director at the Center for Endometriosis Care, brings over 25 years of expertise in laparoscopic surgery and women’s health to the discussion. He sheds light on the differences between adenomyosis and endometriosis, the challenges of diagnosis, treatment options, and how clinicians and patients can work together for better outcomes. Whether you are a patient navigating symptoms or a clinician seeking to improve care, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

• What is adenomyosis, and how does it differ from endometriosis?
• How does adenomyosis impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes?
• What are the key symptoms of adenomyosis that patients and clinicians should look for?
• Why is adenomyosis often misdiagnosed, and how can it be identified earlier?
• What are the most effective treatment options for adenomyosis, including non-surgical approaches?
• When should a hysterectomy be considered for adenomyosis, and what are the risks involved?
• How can an anti-inflammatory diet help manage adenomyosis symptoms?
• What role does trauma play in chronic pelvic pain conditions like adenomyosis?
• Why is a multidisciplinary approach critical in treating adenomyosis and endometriosis?
• What can women do to advocate for themselves and ensure they receive the right diagnosis and care?

Related to this episode on adenomyosis:

• Check out Fempower Health’s resources on Endometriosis, Mental Health, and Fertility 
• Learn more about Dr. Ken Sinvervo 
• Follow the Center for Endometriosis Care on Instagram and Facebook

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Dr. Kenny R. Sinervo, M.D., M.Sc., F.R.C.S.C., A.C.G.E., is the Medical Director of the Center for Endometriosis Care and a globally recognized expert in advanced laparoendoscopic excision of endometriosis and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. A Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada, he is a dedicated advocate for endometriosis patients worldwide and a leader in multidisciplinary care and surgical treatment of pelvic pain. Dr. Sinervo has an extensive case volume, including complex and thoracic/extrapelvic presentations, and actively contributes to research, education, and advocacy efforts. As a Fellowship Preceptor, he trains future surgeons and frequently lectures internationally. A published author and sought-after consultant, he is committed to advancing awareness, reforming access to care, and providing compassionate treatment to patients globally.

Disclaimer

**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.**

Explore ADHD's impact on family dynamics with Dr. Tamara Rosier. Discover expert insights on ADHD emotional regulation, communication, and managing family relationships. Tune in to Fempower Health for ADHD strategies tailored for women and clinicians supporting ADHD patients.

How Does ADHD Affect Family Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs welcomes back ADHD expert Dr. Tamara Rosier to delve into the often-overlooked topic of ADHD and family dynamics. Dr. Rosier, a renowned ADHD coach and author of Your Brain's Not Broken and You, Me, and Our ADHD Family: Practical Steps to Cultivate Healthy Relationships, shares insights from her latest book focused on navigating the unique challenges of ADHD within family relationships. With a deep understanding of ADHD symptoms, emotional regulation, and family roles, Dr. Rosier provides listeners with actionable strategies to build healthier, more balanced family environments. Ideal for individuals with ADHD, their family members, and clinicians seeking to improve patient outcomes, this episode uncovers the critical importance of understanding ADHD's influence on family interactions and offers solutions for common challenges.

• What is the impact of ADHD on family dynamics?
• How does ADHD affect emotional regulation within families?
• Why is ADHD often underdiagnosed in women, and how does this affect family relationships?
• How can family members support each other in managing ADHD symptoms?
• What are some common communication challenges faced by families with ADHD members?
• How can families use the "window of tolerance" to improve ADHD management?
• How do ADHD symptoms differ between men and women in family settings?
• What role does hormonal fluctuation play in ADHD symptoms for women?
• How can family members avoid over-functioning or under-functioning roles?
• What are the benefits of fostering “grace” and “self-responsibility” in ADHD-affected families?

Related to this ADHD and Family Dynamics episode:

• Learn about Dr. Tamara Rosier
• Follow Dr Rosier on LinkedIn and Instagram
• Read Your Brain's Not Broken and You, Me, and Our ADHD Family: Practical Steps to Cultivate Healthy Relationships
• Check out Fempower Health’s resources on Mental Health.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** https://podcast.feedspot.com/health_podcasts/

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Dr. Tamara Rosier is the founder of the ADHD Center of West Michigan, where she leads a team dedicated to supporting individuals and families in understanding and managing their unique challenges. She is the author of Your Brain's Not Broken and You, Me, and Our ADHD Family: Practical Steps to Cultivate Healthy Relationships, which provides practical strategies for navigating the emotional complexities of neurodivergence and personal growth.

**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.**

**Contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Scoliosis and Pelvic Health Episode Summary

In this episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, Georgie Kovacs speaks with Katalin Kapoor, a physical therapist specializing in scoliosis, kyphosis, and pelvic floor health. With over 25 years of experience, Katalin brings unique insights into how conditions like scoliosis can have a profound effect on women’s pelvic health, often in unexpected ways. From managing pelvic floor dysfunction to understanding the importance of postural alignment, Katalin’s expertise provides much-needed clarity on issues many women face but rarely get answers to. Whether you’re dealing with pelvic pain, incontinence, or postural issues, this episode is packed with actionable advice for patients and clinicians alike.

Key Discussion Points:

• How does scoliosis impact pelvic health?
• What are the common symptoms of scoliosis and pelvic floor dysfunction?
• Why is breathing so crucial for pelvic floor health?
• How does a pelvic floor physical therapist differ from a general physical therapist?
• What should women know about postural dysfunctions like scoliosis and kyphosis?
• Why is pelvic floor health important for women with scoliosis?
• How can scoliosis and hypermobility contribute to pelvic floor issues?
• What are the long-term impacts of untreated scoliosis on women’s health?
• What should women advocate for in their pelvic health and postural care?
• How can scoliosis treatment help manage incontinence and pelvic pain?
• Why is it important to work with a specialized pelvic floor physical therapist?

Related to this Scoliosis and Pelvic Health episode:

• Review Fempower Health’s resources on Pelvic Health.
• Follow Katalin Kapoor on LinkedIn.

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Katalin Kapoor is a highly skilled Physical Therapist at Armonk PT, specializing in scoliosis and complex pelvic floor dysfunction. Originally from Hungary, Katalin has over 20 years of orthopedic experience, with 16 years in the U.S. Her expertise spans the Schroth method for scoliosis, pelvic health therapy, and advanced manual techniques, including myofascial and visceral mobilization. Inspired by her experiences as a mother, Katalin is passionate about holistic care, integrating posture, breathing, and pelvic health to treat her patients comprehensively. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her family, hiking, and playing pickleball.

Disclaimer

**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.**

In this powerful episode, we unpack the critical discussion from HLTH 2024 featuring Dr. Chelsea Clinton, Jennifer Klein from the Gender Policy Council, and health equity advocate Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell. The conversation sheds light on the urgent state of reproductive justice, maternal and infant mortality rates, the impact of abortion bans, and the importance of voting at every level of government to protect and advance women's health rights.

Key Discussion Points:

• Maternal and Infant Mortality Crisis: Dr. Chelsea Clinton highlights, “The state of reproductive health in our country is quite poor... A woman giving birth today is 50% more likely to die in childbirth than our mothers were.”
• Consequences of Abortion Bans: Jennifer Klein discusses how current policies have left 28 million women of reproductive age in states with restricted access, affecting comprehensive healthcare, emergency treatment, and more.
• Importance of Voting for Reproductive Rights: Learn why upcoming elections are pivotal, with ballot initiatives in key states like Nevada, Arizona, Missouri, and Florida.
• Educational and Healthcare Impact: Dr. Clinton shares how abortion bans affect medical education and training, leading to long-term healthcare equity challenges.
• Call to Action: “Your health is truly your most prized possession... We have to continue to highlight that,” urges Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell. Dr. Clinton adds, “Only 61% of America is registered to vote... We need everyone to participate.”

Why You Should Listen: Gain a deeper understanding of how reproductive rights impact health, equity, and family well-being and why your participation in local and state elections is crucial for enacting change. This episode underscores that reproductive justice is a community issue that transcends politics, focusing on fundamental human rights.

Key Takeaways:

• Voting at all levels—from local to federal—directly affects reproductive policies.
• Women’s health outcomes are worsening, especially for marginalized groups.
• Education and systemic changes are needed to protect future generations of healthcare providers and patients.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** https://podcast.feedspot.com/health_podcasts/

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

**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.**

**Contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

Join Georgie Kovacs and physical therapist Alyson Lowrey as they discuss the link between hypermobility and chronic pelvic pain. Learn how to recognize symptoms, manage pelvic floor dysfunction, and advocate for better health care. Perfect for women looking for answers and clinicians aiming to provide better patient support.

Pelvic Pain & Hypermobility Episode Summary

In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, Georgie Kovacs sits down with Alyson Lowrey, a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with over 10 years of experience. Alyson shares her personal journey with hypermobility and chronic pelvic pain, as well as her professional expertise in treating women facing these often misunderstood conditions. Together, they dive deep into how hypermobility can affect the pelvic floor, the complexities of diagnosing and treating pelvic pain, and practical strategies to help women take control of their health. Whether you're experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, hypermobility, or just looking for answers, this episode offers a wealth of valuable insights.

• What is hypermobility, and how does it affect the pelvic floor?
• How can women recognize signs of hypermobility in their bodies?
• Why is hypermobility linked to chronic pelvic pain?
• What is the connection between hypermobility and digestive issues like IBS?
• How can pelvic floor dysfunction lead to incontinence, sexual pain, or other complications?
• What exercises are most beneficial for managing hypermobility and pelvic pain?
• How can a physical therapist help with chronic pelvic pain management?
• How does pregnancy and childbirth impact hypermobility and pelvic floor health?
• What role do clinicians play in diagnosing hypermobility and pelvic pain?
• How can women advocate for themselves in the healthcare system when dealing with complex conditions like hypermobility?

Related to this Pelvic Pain & Hypermobility episode:

• Follow Alyson Lowrey on LinkedIn.
• Check out Fempower Health’s resources on pelvic health.

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Dr. Alyson Lowrey attained a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of New Mexico. Following graduation she immediately completed HonorHealth’s Orthopaedic Residency program and became a board-certified orthopedic specialist (OCS). She is now the director of that residency program and lectures about pain and pelvic dysfunction in the curriculum. Her passion for progressing the profession of physical therapy is continued through clinical education and at Creighton and Midwestern University’s physical therapy programs as adjunct faculty. She has also co-authored and co-teaches “Pain Science for the Chronic Pelvic Pain Population” through Herman and Wallace. 

Her clinical population is primarily orthopedic with a large subset of patients experiencing chronic pain, patients with pelvic pain, and patients with hypermobility.  Alyson treats the pelvic floor patient population through an orthopedic approach, working closely with pelvic floor specialists in the same clinic. This allows for a holistic style addressing the entire patient from a functional perspective, and allowing each clinician’s expertise to coincide.  

Disclaimer

**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.**

Dr. Angela Fitch joins Fempower Health to debunk myths about menopause weight gain, explore hormonal and metabolic changes, and explain how GLP-1 medications can help. Learn about the causes of unexplained weight gain during perimenopause and how obesity treatments fit into the picture.

In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs and Dr. Angela Fitch, former president of the Obesity Medicine Association, delve into the complex topic of weight gain during perimenopause and menopause. They discuss the hormonal shifts and metabolic changes that drive weight gain in this life stage, while debunking common myths and shedding light on the facts. Dr. Fitch also explains how GLP-1 medications, typically used for treating obesity, may play a role in managing weight during menopause. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the science behind menopause-related weight changes, alongside treatment options that go beyond diet and exercise.

• What causes unexpected weight gain during menopause?
• How do hormonal changes in perimenopause impact weight?
• What myths about menopause-related weight gain should be debunked?
• Can GLP-1 medications help manage weight during menopause?
• How does obesity differ from weight gain during menopause?
• What role does estrogen play in appetite regulation and body composition?
• What are the best ways to manage weight during menopause without societal pressures?
• How can women decide if weight loss medications are right for them?

• Follow Dr Angela Fitch on LinkedIn.
• Learn about the Obesity Medicine Association.
• Check out Fempower Health’s Resources on Perimenopause and Menopause and Nutrition.

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Angela Fitch, MD, FACP, MFOMA is the current past president of the Obesity Medicine Association.  She practiced primary care for 10 years before becoming a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine in 2012. She is currently the Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder of knownwell, a comprehensive longitudinal obesity treatment and primary care clinic focused on delivering unbiased non-stigmatizing care for patients with obesity throughout the country.  She is a former Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard University, the former co-director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Weight Center, a current ex-officio board member of the Obesity Action Coalition, and a founding member of the Massachusetts Coalition for Action on Obesity. Dr. Fitch is board-certified in obesity medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics.

**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.**

Explore the connection between chronic pelvic pain and trauma with sex therapist Rachel Zar. Learn about trauma-informed care, interdisciplinary treatments, and how women can advocate for their health in this insightful Fempower Health episode.

In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs speaks with Rachel Zar, an AASECT certified sex therapist and Ph.D. in clinical sexology, about the complex relationship between chronic pelvic pain and trauma. Rachel shares her personal and professional insights into how trauma manifests physically and emotionally, particularly in relation to chronic pelvic pain. As someone with extensive experience working with patients at Northwestern Medicine’s Center for Sexual Medicine, Rachel emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care, interdisciplinary treatments, and self-advocacy. This conversation is essential for women struggling to find answers about chronic pain and clinicians seeking to better serve their patients.

• What is the link between trauma and chronic pelvic pain?
• How does chronic pain manifest in both physical and emotional ways?
• What role does trauma play in conditions like vaginismus and vulvodynia?
• How can clinicians provide trauma-informed care for patients with chronic pelvic pain?
• What are the common misdiagnoses and challenges in the treatment of pelvic pain?
• How can women advocate for their health when facing dismissive or uninformed healthcare providers?
• What are the best resources for finding trauma-informed therapists and pelvic pain specialists?
• How can unresolved trauma impact physical sensations, including pain and pleasure?
• What does interdisciplinary treatment for chronic pelvic pain look like?

— Rachel Zar

Related to this episode:

• Learn more about Rachel Zar, PhD, LMFT, CST
• Follow Rachel Zar on Instagram and LinkedIn

If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:

1. Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!
2. Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on Apple, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.
3. Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
4. Engage with Our Community: Follow us on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and engaging content. If you are interested in chronic pelvic pain or perimenopause & menopause, specifically, we've created specific social accounts: Peri/Menopause Instagram, Peri/Menopause Facebook, Peri/Menopause TikTok, Chronic Pelvic Pain Instagram, Chronic Pelvic Pain TikTok
5. Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
6. Reach Out: We love hearing from you! Reach out for inquiries, outreach, or even to share your questions and topics of interest.

Together, let's build a stronger community dedicated to women's health. Your support is crucial in this journey!

Fempower Health Guest Bio

Rachel Zar, PhD, LMFT, CST is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist. She holds a Master’s of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Family Institute at Northwestern University, a PhD in Clinical Sexology from Modern Sex Therapy Institutes, and certificates in sex therapy and sexuality education from University of Michigan. Dr. Zar is a clinical supervisor at Avid Intimacy, a sex and relationship therapy private practice in Chicago. Dr. Zar is passionate about educating and mentoring other clinicians, and she frequently lectures, writes, and provides expert interviews for the media on myriad sex and relationship topics.

Disclaimer

**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.**