Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

By Georgie KovacsHealth & Fitness Education

Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast episodes

October 22, 2024Pelvic Pain and Hypermobility: The Connection You Need to Know | Alyson Lowrey - Fempower Health: The Chronic Pelvic Pain Channel
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.
Key Discussion Points:
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?

“Hypermobility is more than just flexibility—it impacts the pelvic floor, digestion, and even how your body processes pain.” - Alyson Lowrey
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:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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.**
48 min
October 15, 2024Menopause Weight Gain Explained: Myths, Facts, and How GLP-1 Drugs Fit In | Dr. Angela Fitch - Fempower Health: The Midlife Channel
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.
Weight Loss Medications and Menopause Episode Summary
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.
Key Discussion Points:
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?

"You may not think you’re doing anything different, but probably you are, but it’s very subtle. The thing is, to gain five pounds a year as a person, it only takes 10 extra calories a day." - Dr. Angela Fitch
Related to this Menopause Weight Gain episode:
Follow Dr Angela Fitch on LinkedIn.
Learn about the Obesity Medicine Association.
Check out Fempower Health’s Resources on Perimenopause and Menopause and Nutrition.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**
Want men to better understand how to support you during your menopause journey! Tell us what you want them to know.
If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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.**
57 min
October 08, 2024Chronic Pelvic Pain & Trauma: Breaking the Silence | Rachel Zar - Fempower Health: The Chronic Pelvic Pain Channel
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.
Chronic Pelvic Pain and Trauma Episode Summary:
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.

Key Discussion Points:
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?

"The pain that they're experiencing is real, even if it started off as a psychological issue, our body adapts, and these are real physical things that are happening."
— 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:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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.**
50 min
October 01, 2024Gut Health & Hormones: How Your Microbiome Shapes Women's Wellness | Guy Daniels - Fempower Health: The Midlife Channel
Discover how gut health influences hormonal balance in women. In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs interviews microbiome expert Guy Daniels, who explains the connection between the gut microbiome, endometriosis, PCOS, perimenopause, and menopause, offering practical advice on improving both gut and hormonal health.
Gut Health and Women's Hormones Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode, Georgie Kovacs interviews Guy Daniels, an expert in the microbiome and founder of The Microbiome Expert. With years of experience as the Director of Medical Education at Thorne and a deep understanding of the gut microbiome, Guy shares how gut health plays a critical role in women's hormonal balance and overall well-being. They explore how the gut microbiome affects conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, menopause, and perimenopause. Guy also discusses the significant impacts of diet, antibiotics, and lifestyle on gut health, offering practical advice to improve both gut and hormonal health.
This episode is a must-listen for women seeking answers to their health concerns, especially around digestive and hormonal issues, as well as clinicians looking to better serve their patients. Learn how the gut and hormones are connected, and what steps can be taken to improve both.
Discussion Points:
What is the gut microbiome, and why is it important for women's health?
How does gut health impact hormonal balance in women?
What is the connection between gut health and conditions like endometriosis and PCOS?
Can the gut microbiome influence symptoms of perimenopause and menopause?
How do antibiotics affect gut health and hormonal balance?
What are the best dietary changes to support a healthy gut microbiome?
Is there a connection between gut health and anxiety or depression?
How do lifestyle factors like stress and exercise influence gut health and hormone regulation?
What role does the microbiome play in managing conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, and other digestive issues?
What are the differences between bioidentical hormones and pharmaceutical options for women managing menopause?
Can improving gut health reduce inflammation and autoimmune responses in women?

“Perimenopause, PCOS, endometriosis—none of these conditions exist in a vacuum. Everything is connected.” - Guy Daniels

Related to this Gut Microbiome and Women’s Hormones Episode:

Check out Fempower Health’s resources on the Microbiome
Learn more about Guy Daniels. Follow Guy on YouTube and LinkedIn.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**
Want men to better understand how to support you during your menopause journey! Tell us what you want them to know.
If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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
Guy Daniels is THE Microbiome Expert. With over 20 years in the natural/integrative/functional medicine space, he brings a unique perspective to managing your health. A perspective which yields great results, finally after so many other practitioners have failed patients from around the globe. Feel free to view his testimonials at Themicrobiomeexpert.com. After having served as the director of medical education for a microbiome firm for many years, in February of 2024, Guy launched his own platform. In his many videos encompassing all aspects of the microbiome, you will truly be exposed to information you'll find nowhere else.

**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.**
1 hr 4 min
September 24, 2024Bladder Health Myths: Why It’s Not Always a UTI | Dr. Tamra Lewis - Fempower Health: The Chronic Pelvic Pain Channel
In this episode of Fempower Health, Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urogynecologist, discusses bladder health, UTI misdiagnoses, and how pelvic floor dysfunction, menopause, and the microbiome impact bladder issues in women. Learn how to advocate for better care and understand your symptoms.
Bladder Health Episode Summary
In this episode of Fempower Health, we sit down with Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urologist specializing in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (also known as urogynecology). Dr. Lewis shares her expertise on common bladder health issues affecting women, many of which are frequently misdiagnosed as urinary tract infections (UTIs). We explore the importance of accurate diagnoses, the potential causes of bladder issues, and how women can better advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. This episode is essential listening for women seeking clarity on their bladder health and for clinicians looking to improve patient outcomes.
Discussion Points:
Why are so many women misdiagnosing themselves with UTIs?
What are the common symptoms of bladder problems in women?
How can women better describe bladder issues to their healthcare provider?
What are the underlying causes of frequent bladder issues in women?
How can you tell the difference between a UTI and other bladder problems?
Why is it important to have a pelvic exam for bladder issues?
How does pelvic floor dysfunction contribute to bladder symptoms?
What are the most effective treatments for overactive bladder?
How can you prevent recurring urinary tract infections?
What role does menopause play in bladder health?
What is the impact of the microbiome on bladder health and UTIs?
Why should women advocate for more thorough evaluations from their doctors?

"It's easier to treat a small problem than to let a small problem become a bigger problem." - Dr. Tamra Lewis
Related to this Bladder Health episode:
Learn more about Dr. Tamra Lewis and follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram
Check out Fempower Health 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:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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. Tamra Lewis holds board certification in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. She practices in Lake, Kane, and Cook Counties, and her hospital affiliations include Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Ascension Saint Alexius, and Hoffman Estates Surgery Center.

Dr. Lewis received her B.A. in Biology from Luther College in 1994, and she obtained her Medical Doctorate in 1999 from the University Of Iowa College Of Medicine. In 2005, Dr. Lewis completed her Surgical and Urology residencies at the University of Nebraska and then went on to complete a fellowship in Female Urology and Voiding Dysfunction at Metro Urology in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN.

Dr. Lewis’s professional interests include management of incontinence, voiding dysfunction, bladder prolapse, and urinary tract infections. She is a member of the American Urological Association, the Society for Urodynamics and Female Urology, the Society for Women in Urology, and The Chicago Urological Society, where she currently serves as President. Dr. Lewis has been an invited speaker or presenter for numerous events on topics including incontinence, overactive bladder, hematuria, and urinary tract infections.

In her spare time, Dr. Lewis enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

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.**
45 min
September 17, 2024Midlife, Menopause, and Rediscovering Sexuality | Dr. Kelly Casperson - Fempower Health: The Midlife Channel
Discover how menopause can be a time of sexual rediscovery. Dr. Kelly Casperson shares insights on midlife sexuality, debunking myths, and how to navigate changes in desire, intimacy, and sexual health.
Reclaiming Midlife Sexuality Episode Summary
In this empowering episode of *Fempower Health*, we explore the intersection of menopause, sexuality, and personal growth with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a renowned urologist and author of *You Are Not Broken*. As women transition through perimenopause and menopause, sexual health and intimacy can feel challenging. However, Dr. Casperson provides practical insights into how midlife can be a time of sexual rediscovery rather than decline. From understanding the myths surrounding female sexuality to addressing common concerns like vaginal dryness, desire mismatch, and communication in relationships, this conversation is a must-listen for women and clinicians alike.

Key Discussion Points about Midlife Sexuality
What are the common myths surrounding female orgasms, and how do they impact women's sexual health?
How does the cultural narrative shape women’s understanding of their sexual desire, especially in midlife?
How can vaginal dryness and pain during sex be addressed with hormone therapy and other treatments?
What are the most common reasons for pain during sex in menopause, and how can women overcome them?
Why do many women struggle with communication about their sexual needs, and how can this be improved?
What role does arousal play in preventing discomfort during sex, and why is it often overlooked?
How can women and their partners address desire mismatches in a long-term relationship?
What role do hormones such as estrogen and testosterone play in maintaining sexual desire and function during menopause?
How can journaling and self-reflection help women rediscover their sexual selves after years of passive participation in intimacy?

“Pain with sex, more trouble with arousal, more trouble with orgasm…very fixable with both lubricants and hormones.” - Dr. Kelly Casperson
Related to this Midlife Sexuality podcast episode:

Check out all Fempower Health Perimenopause and Menopause Resources along with Sexual Health
Read Dr. Kelly Casperson's book You Are Not Broken
Learn about The Menopause Society and The International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH): [Website](https://www.isswsh.org)
Read Magnificent Sex by Peggy Kleinplatz

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**
Want men to better understand how to support you during your menopause journey! Tell us what you want them to know.
If you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:
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!
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.
Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!
Engage with Our Community: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube, for the latest updates and engaging content.
Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest announcements, news, and research directly in your inbox.
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. Kelly Casperson is a urologist, public speaker, sex educator, and top international podcaster whose mission is empowering women to live their best lives. Dr. Kelly identified the need for better resources and developed a sex education class for women that covers topics like sexual health, intimacy, mind work, and the science of desire. She combines education, humor, and candor in her podcast "You Are Not Broken" where she dismantles the myths women have learned and normalizes healthy, enjoyable sex worth desiring, in addition to essential education on midlife health and hormones. Follow Dr. Kelly on Instagram (@kellycaspersonmd), or visit kellycaspersonmd.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.**
47 min
September 10, 2024Women’s Health Spotlight: PCOS, Perimenopause, and Exciting Updates You Won’t Want to Miss! | Georgie Kovacs
Join Georgie Kovacs as she highlights key health topics for September, including PCOS, ovarian cancer, and perimenopause awareness. Get expert insights on women's health, upcoming podcast episodes, and how to advocate for better care.
Episode Summary
In this special episode, Georgie takes a break from her regular expert interviews to provide updates on important awareness topics happening in September, as well as an exciting preview of what's coming for Fempower Health. She shares personal updates, including reflections on the end of summer and her son's start of fourth grade. Georgie highlights awareness months for PCOS, ovarian cancer, and perimenopause, diving into why these health issues are critical for women's health. She also shares sneak peeks of upcoming episodes focused on pelvic pain, sexual health, and the microbiome.
Key Topics Covered:
PCOS Awareness Month: Understanding the challenges of diagnosing PCOS and how women can advocate for better care.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: The ongoing need for better diagnostic tools and how to recognize symptoms early.
Perimenopause Awareness Month: Defining perimenopause and menopause, and discussing the importance of shared decision-making with healthcare providers.
Upcoming Episodes Preview:
Rare causes of pain with sex with Dr. Alex Dubinskaya.
Sexual health in midlife with Dr. Kelly Casperson.
How to talk about bladder symptoms to get the proper root cause diagnosis with Dr. Tamara Lewis.
Gut microbiome and hormones with Guy Daniels.
Pelvic pain and trauma insights with Rachel Zar.
Shared decision-making in cancer risk and hormone therapy with Dr. Michelle Jacobson.

Key Takeaways:
Advocacy in Women's Health: Women need to be aware of their symptoms, especially in conditions without clear diagnostic tests. Being informed helps with better conversations with doctors.
PCOS: It's a complex condition that affects multiple aspects of a woman’s health. While there’s no cure, management of symptoms is possible with proper guidance.
Ovarian Cancer: Nonspecific symptoms like bloating can lead to late diagnoses. Awareness and diagnostic advancements are key.
Perimenopause and Menopause: Shared decision-making between patients and doctors is crucial for individualized care during this stage of life.
Upcoming Expert Interviews: A diverse set of expert guests bring valuable insights on sexual health, bladder issues, skin care, and hormone therapy.

“We need proper language around our health to better understand how to advocate for ourselves and talk to our doctor.” Georgie Kovacs

Related to this episode:

SHARE YOUR FEEDBACk and take the survey!
Resources on PCOS, Female Cancer, Perimenopause & Menopause
Follow the Chronic Pelvic Pain and/or Perimenopause & Menopause Podcast Channels

🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:

1. Help others discover Fempower Health:
Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.
2. Stay connected:
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.
Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Host Bio
Georgie Kovacs is a seasoned professional with over two decades of healthcare expertise, having contributed to industry giants like Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. She launched Fempower Health in 2020, a pioneering platform that empowers women with evidence-based insights and support. Collaborating with top experts, Georgie is dedicated to redefining the narrative surrounding women's health, ensuring every woman has the knowledge and resources to thrive and make informed decisions about their health.

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

**May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**
15 min
September 03, 2024It's NOT Your Genetics, It's Your Lifestyle | Aimee Raupp
Originally published July 6, 2020
In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, host Georgie Kovacs talks with Aimee Raupp, a renowned expert in women's health, fertility, and holistic wellness. Aimee shares her insights on how women can take control of their health through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and a holistic approach to fertility. She discusses her book "Body Belief" and the transformative impact it has had on her clients, including those dealing with infertility and autoimmune conditions. Georgie and Aimee delve into the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and trusting one’s body, providing valuable advice for women seeking answers to their health questions. This episode, recorded in 2020, continues to offer relevant and accurate insights into women's health and wellness.
Discussion Points:
How can diet and lifestyle changes improve fertility and overall women's health?
What are the key principles of Aimee Raupp's "Body Belief" and how can they help women struggling with infertility?
What role does holistic wellness play in managing autoimmune conditions in women?
How can women empower themselves to take control of their health journeys?
What are the benefits of a mind-body approach to fertility and women's health?
How can clinicians integrate holistic practices into their treatment plans for female patients?

"Epigenetics shows us that our lifestyle, our environment, and our mindset can actually change the expression of our genes." Aimee Raupp
Resources:
Resources and episodes on Fertility and Trying to Conceive

Resources and episodes on Nutrition & Exercise

🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:

1. Help others discover Fempower Health:
Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.
2. Stay connected:
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations.
Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox.

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

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

**May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**
58 min
September 03, 2024A Deep Dive on Hormone Therapy, Menopause Myths, and More | Dr. Lauren Streicher - Fempower Health: The Perimenopause and Menopause Channel
Join us for an in-depth discussion with Dr. Lauren Streicher as we answer the top 10 questions about perimenopause and menopause. Learn about hormone therapy, menopause symptoms, and expert treatment options to navigate this significant life stage.
Episode Summary of interview with Dr. Lauren Streicher
In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs welcomes back Dr. Lauren Streicher, a renowned expert in menopause and women's health. Dr. Streicher is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University, an author, and the host of the podcast "Inside Information: The Menopause Podcast." Together, they delve into the top ten questions women have about perimenopause and menopause, ranging from the efficacy of home menopause tests to the complexities of hormone therapy and managing menopause symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and joint pain. Dr. Streicher offers clear, evidence-based insights, aiming to dispel myths and provide women and clinicians with reliable information to make informed decisions about menopause care.
Key Discussion Points on Top 10 Perimenopause and Menopause Questions:
Do home menopause tests work for diagnosing perimenopause and menopause?
When are most women done with menopause symptoms?
How long is it safe to take hormone therapy, and what are the risks and benefits?
What role does progesterone play in menopause management, and how does it differ from estrogen?
Can birth control pills be used to manage perimenopausal symptoms effectively?
Does estrogen therapy increase the risk of breast cancer?
What are the implications of the BRCA gene mutation for hormone therapy?
Why might vaginal estrogen not alleviate painful sex, and what other treatments can help?
Is it normal to experience hot flashes years after menopause, and what does it mean for cardiovascular health?
What are the connections between menopause and conditions like dry mouth and arthritis?

“Menopause and midlife are often confused. Not everything is menopause, and not everything is aging. Sometimes, it's both.” - Dr. Lauren Streicher
Related to this episode on Top 10 Questions about Perimenopause and Menopause:
Check out Dr. Lauren Streicher's Podcast: "Inside Information: The Menopause Podcast"
Review the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Study
Learn about the SWAN Study (Study of Women's Health Across the Nation)
Read about Dr. Vonda Wright's Research on Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
Read Dr Lauren Streicher’s journal article: Diagnosis, causes, and treatment of dyspareunia in postmenopausal women

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Fempower Health Guest Bio
In addition to serving as the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health, Lauren Streicher, MD is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, and the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Menopause and the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine.

Dr. Streicher is also a Fellow in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a member of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, Inc., The International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health, and The Scientific Network on Female Sexual Health and Cancer. Dr. Streicher is a Certified Menopause Practitioner of The Menopause Society, serves on the Editorial Board of the journal Menopause and is a Senior Research Fellow for the Kinsey Institute, Indiana University.

In addition, Dr. Streicher is a best-selling author and has written multiple books about women’s health and menopause, including Sex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever and Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist’s Guide to Turning Down the Heat. She is the host of “Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information: Menopause, Midlife and More Podcast” and writes a regular column for Prevention Magazine and The Ethel by AARP.

Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago’s top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has appeared multiple times on The Today Show, Good Morning America, CNN, NPR, NBC Nightly News and more.

**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.**
55 min
August 27, 2024Empowering OCD Recovery: Insights & Treatments for OCD | Catherine Goldhouse
Originally Published September 19, 2023
In this episode, psychotherapist Catherine Goldhouse sheds light on the often misunderstood condition of OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). Catherine explains the goals of different treatments for OCD, with a focus on exposure and response prevention (ERP) and inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT). Catherine provides compelling examples to illustrate these OCD treatments, emphasizing the importance of living a meaningful life despite anxiety and fear.
Learn about the common misconceptions surrounding OCD, the challenges faced by individuals seeking appropriate treatment, and the importance of specialized training in the field. Explore the less-often-discussed reality of postpartum OCD, and help increase awareness, understanding, and support for new mothers experiencing these symptoms.
Catherine Goldhouse is an OCD specialist, offering support to individuals who experience intrusive thoughts and fears related to their relationships, morality, and safety. She is particularly passionate about raising awareness of postpartum OCD and advocating for proper training for pediatricians to offer appropriate care for new mothers who develop this condition.
Discussed in this episode:
How OCD therapy works
Comparing ICBT and ERP for OCD
Differences between anxiety, OCD, and phobias
Various types of OCD including harm OCD, relationship OCD, and sexual orientation OCD
Recognizing that individuals with OCD are often kind and sensitive
The importance of finding a supportive community for those who have OCD
Common onsets of OCD
Postpartum OCD
What loved ones can do to help, but not enable, OCD individuals

“OCD is considered one of the top ten most debilitating disorders. So it's no joke, right? If you like to color-code things or you like things neat in your house, that's not OCD… Making comments like that, even though they're not meant to be cruel, are problematic." - Catherine Goldhouse
Related to this episode:
Resources and episodes on Mental Health
Catherine Goldhouse’s Website: www.catherinegoldhouse.com
Catherine Goldhouse’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/catherinegoldhouse

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**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**
47 min

About Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Fempower Health is where systems thinking meets women's health. Hosted by Georgie Kovacs, a healthcare strategist with 20+ years in the industry, each episode features conversations with leading researchers, clinicians, and innovators working to fix what's broken in women's healthcare. We cover hormone health, fertility, perimenopause, menopause, endometriosis, autoimmune disease, mental health, and sexual wellness, grounded in current research and real clinical practice. This isn't another wellness show. It's an evidence-based look at the systems, research, and policy shaping care for women, so you understand not just what's happening, but why.