Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

By Georgie KovacsHealth & Fitness Education

Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast episodes

July 09, 2024Debunking PCOS Misconceptions | Dr. Jerilynn Prior
Originally Released April 5, 2022
PCOS impacts 1 in 10 women yet it is still underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed. Dr. Jerilynn Prior, of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR), is a Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of British Columbia, with 40 years experience in women’s health. She brings an interesting perspective to what might happen if we considered PCOS to primarily be a hormone imbalance rather than a disease.
In this episode, we cover the following:
Difference between ovarian cysts and PCOS
Why PCOS is not the best term to describe the condition
What is the main cause of PCOS?
What are the first signs of PCOS?
What is the diagnostic criteria for PCOS?
How having multiple criteria (e.g., Rotterdam and International) for diagnosing PCOS creates confusion leading to multiple cases of delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis
Can PCOS tests be wrong?
Can birth control make PCOS worse?
Can birth control cause PCOS?
Is PCOS genetically inherited?

“To me, this is the hopeful message. PCOS is a hormone imbalance, not a disease.” - Dr Jerilynn Prior
Resources:
Resources and episodes on PCOS

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**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

More about Dr. Jerilynn Prior
Jerilynn C. Prior BA, MD, FRCPC investigates women’s menstrual cycles, population variability of ovulation and physiological associations of ovulatory disturbances within regular cycles with osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and breast cancer and endometrial cancer risks. She also studies the hormonal and experience changes in perimenopause and treatment of perimenopausal and menopausal hot flushes with progesterone.

She is the 2019 recipient of the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Aubrey J. Tingle Prize awarded to a “BC clinician scientist whose work in health research is internationally recognized”. She is Scientific Director of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR, since 2002) with its website (www.cemcor.ca) providing practical evidence-based information through a mean of 3,000 page-views/day. She has led the British Columbia Centre of the population-based Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos) since 1994. In addition to authoring over 200 peer-reviewed papers (H Index 65), Dr. Prior is the author of the award-winning book, Estrogen’s Storm Season: Stories of Perimenopause (2005, 2nd ed. 2018), a novel written to inform/empower women with perimenopause information.

**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**
43 min
July 02, 2024Cracking the Code of Vaginal Health: An Expert's Take on the Microbiome | Dr. Caroline Mitchell
Originally published March 12, 2024
Learn how your vaginal flora and gut microbiome contribute to your reproductive health. Dr. Caroline Mitchell shares her expertise and research on this important but overlooked topic.
Episode Summary
In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome. Dr. Caroline Mitchell, distinguished reproductive health researcher and faculty member at the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, shares her profound insight on why a healthy vaginal microbiome is crucial in women's health.
With a background in Women’s Studies at Harvard College and groundbreaking research funded by prestigious organizations, Dr. Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. She explains the complexities of understanding vaginal flora, the challenges posed by bacterial vaginosis (BV), and the intriguing connections between gut health and vaginal health.
Listen to learn about some of the most significant yet overlooked aspects of women's reproductive health. We discuss how to balance the vaginal microbiome, what to do about chronic bacterial vaginosis, use cases for a vaginal microbiome transplant, and what innovative treatments are emerging in women’s health.
Key Discussion Points

Why a healthy vaginal microbiome is crucial for women's overall health and how imbalances can lead to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV).
The difficulties of limited funding and the complexity of research regarding the vaginal microbiome.
Symptoms of BV, its limited treatment options, and common misdiagnoses such as vulvodynia.
Yeast infection vs. BV vs. UTI symptoms.
The impact of antibiotic use on the vaginal and gut microbiomes, plus the need for caution and further research.
Vaginal microbiome transplants and the potential of lactobacillus crispatus in treating BV, plus the future of an at-home vaginal microbiome test.
What to consider when looking for the best women's probiotics for vaginal health, and how to avoid unnecessary products and irritants.
The importance of accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management for vaginal health.

"When the good kind of lactobacillus are not dominating the vaginal microbial community, people are at higher risk for preterm birth, HIV acquisition, human papillomavirus—at risk for both acquisition and progression to cervical dysplasia and potentially cancer." - Dr. Caroline Mitchell
Related to this episode:

Resources and episodes on the Gut and Vaginal Microbiome

Follow Dr. Caroline Mitchell on Instagram and LinkedIn. Follow her lab on Instagram.
Learn more about Dr Mitchell’s research and consider enrolling in her clinical trials
MOTIF (be a donor recipient)
MOTIF (be a donor)
VIBRANT study, looking at a live biotherapeutic
Learn about the VITA Study
Companies working on products include Osel, Freya Biosciences, and BioNTech
Test kits for women with altered vaginal flora: Evvy

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

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

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio
Dr. Caroline Mitchell, a distinguished faculty member at the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, has a remarkable career that bridges clinical practice with groundbreaking research. After earning her BA in Women's Studies from Harvard College and serving in the Peace Corps in Southern Africa, she returned to Harvard Medical School for her MD, followed by OB/Gyn residency and an MPH degree at the University of Washington in Seattle. At MGH since 2014, Dr. Mitchell dedicates her research to understanding the vaginal microbiota's role in reproductive health, supported by prestigious grants from organizations like NIH, the Doris Duke Foundation, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. As the Director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program and chair of the OB/Gyn Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at MGH, her clinical and research work includes pioneering the first randomized trial of vaginal fluid transplant for recurrent infections and investigating novel vaginal biotherapeutics, underlining her commitment to advancing women's health globally.

**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**
43 min
June 25, 2024Hormonal Birth Control and Brain Health: A Discussion | Sarah E. Hill, PhD
Originally published October 3, 2023
Dr. Sarah E. Hill, PhD is a research psychologist and expert in the effects of birth control on women’s lives. She is the author of the book, "This is Your Brain on Birth Control" and has dedicated her research to uncovering the science behind hormonal birth control and its potential impacts.
In this episode, Dr. Sarah E. Hill discusses the importance of understanding the science of birth control and its influence on choices women make, such as pursuing education, careers, and even romantic partners. She presents recent developments and research on birth control, including the approval of over-the-counter options and the potential effects of the Roe v. Wade overturn.
Listen as Dr. Sarah E. Hill shares her expertise and insights on the conversation surrounding birth control in our modern society, and how it relates to women’s health empowerment today.
Discussed in this episode:
The impacts of birth control on hormones and health
How hormones affect mood, behavior, and mental health in women
Can birth control affect attraction and partner choices?
Why individual women respond differently to birth control pills
The importance of women being aware of potential birth control side effects
Exploring the question: is birth control bad?
Sex education and birth control
Learning to self-monitor when starting or switching birth control methods
Access to birth control after Roe v. Wade overturned
The need for women’s health education on their hormones and other birth control alternatives

"The full extent to which birth control pills impact us isn't well understood, and we have been far too cavalier with our hormones. I can't help thinking that we would be a lot more careful with ourselves if we understood how we work and why we work that way." - Dr. Sarah E. Hill
Related to this episode:
Get Dr. Hill’s Book: This is Your Brain on Birth Control
Resources and episodes on Hormones & Menstrual Health

On the Blog: What Women Want & Need to Know About Birth Control
Free Resources: Female Reproductive Health & Hormones
Related Books: www.bookshop.org/lists/understanding-your-body-anatomy-menstrual-cycle-hormones

🎧 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
June 11, 2024Validating Pain: Endometriosis, Periods, and Women’s Wellness | Dr Peta Wright
Episode was first played on November 29, 2022 - In this episode, Fempower Health interviews Dr. Peta Wright about endometriosis and pelvic pain. Dr. Wright is a gynecologist, fertility specialist, and the founder of Vera Women’s Wellness: a whole woman's approach to endometriosis healing and recovery.
Together, they discuss endometriosis surgery, treating women with endometriosis, common underlying correlations of pelvic pain, and what we can do to help women in a society that makes pain and periods two “enemies” of productivity.
Discussed in this episode:
Dr. Wright’s observation of conventional gynecology today, especially when diagnosing endometriosis
Can pelvic pain and endometriosis symptoms be correlated with childhood trauma?
Laparoscopies vs other types of treatment for endometriosis
What to address when seeing a patient with severe endometriosis pain
Examples of surgery outcomes and when it is and isn’t appropriate for treating endo
Is pelvic pain the enemy or is it a sign the body needs to be heard?
How fear-based language in medicine pathologizes women’s bodies

“I don’t think surgery should be what validates a woman’s pain. I think she should be validated when you first see her and she’s talking about her pain.” - Dr. Peta Wright
Related to this episode:

Learn about verawomenswellness.com.au
Follow Dr. Peta Wright on Instagram
Check out the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study
Resources and episodes on Endometriosis

🎧 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**
40 min
June 04, 2024Women’s Mental Health: Tackling Menopause and Perimenopause | Dr. Allie Sharma
Learn about menopause and mental health from clinical psychologist Dr. Allie Sharma on the Fempower Health Podcast.
Episode Summary
While menopause is assumed to come with hot flashes and menstrual changes, there are also mental effects of menopause that are less commonly discussed. In this episode, Dr. Allie Sharma—a clinical psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health—discusses the impacts of perimenopause and menopause on mood and the brain. She emphasizes the need for education and integrated care models for women navigating this significant life transition and shares her thoughts on how this can be done.
Listen as we discuss the relationship between hormonal changes, depression/anxiety, and navigating the healthcare system during menopause. Dr. Sharma also offers expert insights on menopause mental health symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and advocating for your health at this phase of life.
Discussion Topics
The differences between perimenopause and menopause
The relationship between menopause and mental health issues
How hormonal changes can result in mental health symptoms
Why women are at higher risk for depression and anxiety during perimenopause
The role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in managing menopause symptoms
How perimenopause can affect relationships and family dynamics
Common sexual health issues during menopause and how they can be addressed
Strategies to help you advocate for your health effectively
How family members can better support women during perimenopause and menopause

“If you're experiencing new onset anxiety or depression in your forties, it's crucial to consider hormonal changes as a potential cause and seek appropriate treatment.” Dr. Allie Sharma
Related to this episode:

Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter

Resources and episodes on Mental Health

Learn more about Dr. Allie Sharma and follow her on Instagram
Referenced in the Episode: CNN Article on Perimenopause and Mental Health
Reference in the Episode: Penn Ovarian Aging Study (POAS)

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

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

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio
Dr. Sonali (Allie) Sharma, MD, MSc is a Cornell trained and board certified adult psychiatrist, behavioral health strategist, and mental health innovator. Today she is an actively practicing psychiatrist and serves as the Chief Medical Officer and co-founder of Being Health, a psychiatrist-founded practice leveraging the best of psychiatry, novel treatments, psychotherapy, functional medicine and wellness services to help people improve their mental health.

Before co-founding Being Health, Dr. Sharma held various clinical positions, including Emergency Psychiatry at Columbia University, Student Mental Health at Columbia University’s health science campus, and supporting mental health of the homeless population across shelters in New York City, and has worked strategically across systems of care both globally and locally in New York City. Currently, Dr. Sharma is a Women’s Health Advisor for Evernow, a menopause care company, and a Program Advisor for Kenneth Cole’s Mental Health Coalition.

Dr. Sharma was also the co-host and creator of the the Model Mentality podcast, and was an Associate Medical Director for Cityblock, program building for the Medicaid population in NYC.

Dr. Sharma is a mother of two and currently lives in Brooklyn, NY.

**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**
38 min
May 28, 2024Beyond Reproduction: The Broader Health Impacts of Estrogen and Progesterone | Dr. Jerilynn Prior
Originally Published October 25, 2021. Inspired by an upcoming episode with Dr Prior about perimenopause, specifically, I thought it important to revisit the need to understand the important roles of BOTH estrogen AND progesterone.
We’ve all been told about the powerful effects of estrogen on a woman’s reproductive cycle. But more people are now learning that progesterone is equally as important. With so much research and discussion regarding hormone imbalances in women today, experts confirm that these two female sex hormones are critical to more than just sex and pregnancy— they’re vital to every woman’s health.
In this episode, Dr. Jerilynn Prior of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR) shares essential information about the roles that estrogen and progesterone play in not only ovulation but basic health. She explains why hormone imbalance is so important to confront, and how hormones impact overall wellness from heart health to bone health to mood. She offers some insight into how women’s hormones change throughout various stages of life, from puberty to menopause.
Discussed in this episode:
The difference between estrogen and progesterone
Understanding estrogen vs progesterone in the menstrual cycle
The role of estrogen and progesterone in bone health, breast and endometrial cancer risk, fertility, weight, and heart health
Why balancing hormones in women is so important (regardless of whether or not you want to get pregnant!)
Clearing up confusion on the common question: does stress impact fertility?
Why it’s hard for women to be aware of some of this research
How your hormone balance is defined at different ages and stages of life

“It’s important to be aware of your reproductive cycle because it’s such a key indicator of optimal health overall. It’s also important to know because if you want to have a child one day, you need to ovulate normally. Having ‘regular cycles’ is not sufficient.” - Dr. Jerilynn Prior
Related to this episode:
CeMCOR website: Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research
Sign up for the CeMCOR Newsletter for the latest on women’s health
Learn more about your Hormones and Menstrual Cycle
Dr. Jerilynn Prior’s book: Estrogen Storm Season: Stories of Perimenopause
Recommended book: Period Repair Manual
Recommended book: Hormone Repair Manual
Recommended book: Sex Matters
More on ovulation: Women’s Health and the Ovulation Cycle

🎧 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**

Speaker Bio
Dr. Jerilynn Prior is a Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of British Columbia, with 40 years of experience in women’s health. She specializes in women’s hormones and peri/menopause treatments. Read more in her book, Estrogen Storm Season: Stories of Perimenopause

**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**
31 min
May 14, 2024Pelvic Floor After Hysterectomy: Preparation, Treatment, and Management | Dr. Jocelyn Wallace
Learn about the pelvic floor after hysterectomy as Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, shares her insights.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, discusses the importance of the pelvic floor in women's health. She sheds light on the pelvic floor, especially in the context of hysterectomy.
Dr. Wallace talks about managing pelvic floor changes that can occur after a hysterectomy. She discusses the value of comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including strategies for preventing complications like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Dr. Wallace also offers practical advice on pelvic floor therapy for women, lifestyle changes, and advocating for personalized care for the pelvic floor.
Key Discussion Points on the Tie Between Hysterectomy and Pelvic Health:

The fundamental role of the pelvic floor in supporting essential organs and maintaining women's health.
Common pelvic floor exercises after hysterectomy and how to seek pelvic floor therapy.
How a hysterectomy can affect pelvic floor function and increase the risk of complications like pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and sexual function.
Why preoperative pelvic floor therapy is crucial for strengthening muscles and reducing potential complications post-surgery.
The importance of a structured recovery plan including exercises, therapy, and lifestyle changes to optimize pelvic health after surgery.
How to advocate for comprehensive pelvic care before and after a hysterectomy to find an approach that suits your unique health needs.
Ways to navigate changes in sexual health post-hysterectomy.

“A hysterectomy significantly changes the pelvic anatomy. It's crucial to be aware of these changes and their potential effects on bladder and bowel function.” - Dr Jocelyn Wallace

Related to this episode:

Resources and episodes on Pelvic Health

Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter

Listen to Life Before and After Hysterectomy with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez
Learn more about Dr. Jocelyn Wallace and follow her on Instagram
Take the Pelvic Floor Questionnaire

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

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

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio
Dr. Jocelyn Wallace is on a mission to redefine the care people receive before and after pelvic surgery. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, pelvic floor specialist + long time fitness coach, she helps women find healing after hysterectomy, so they can get back to the things they love with safety and confidence.

**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**
38 min
May 07, 2024Life Before and After Hysterectomy | Dr. Zoe Rodriguez
Listen as Dr. Zoe Rodriguez shares her medical and patient-advocating expertise about life before and after hysterectomy.
Episode Summary
Join Fempower Health as we discuss hysterectomies with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez, the Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
In this episode, we address the misconceptions, diverse cultural perspectives, and crucial insights surrounding hysterectomies. We talk about different hysterectomy options, recovery expectations, and the significant impact of surgical choices on women's health. Whether you are considering this procedure or seeking deeper understanding, this discussion offers valuable guidance to navigate your health decisions confidently.

Key Takeaways
The different types of hysterectomy surgery—including total, supracervical, and partial hysterectomy—and why it’s so important to know the different options.
How cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of healthcare and surgical decisions, particularly within the Latina community.
The importance of setting realistic expectations and being well-informed about post-surgical recovery, hormonal impacts, and sexuality after hysterectomy.
Debunking common misconceptions that Western physicians are “eager to perform surgeries,” plus ethical considerations and patient-centric approaches adopted by modern medicine.
Minimally invasive procedures for fibroids and other conditions that can be alternatives to hysterectomy.
The role of informed consent and ensuring patients are fully aware of what their surgery entails, including the potential removal of ovaries and subsequent hormonal implications.
Tips for patients on how to interact effectively with healthcare providers to ensure all their concerns are addressed.
Dr. Rodriguez’s vision for accessible, high-quality healthcare for all, regardless of immigration or citizenship status.

“I need you to really pay attention to your symptoms because that's the only way I'm gonna know. And if you are having symptoms, then I can provide you with these beautiful menopausal hormone therapies.” - Dr Zoe Rodriguez
Related to this episode:

Resources and episodes on Pelvic Health

Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter

Learn about ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists): A leading organization in women's health care, providing guidelines and practice bulletins for medical practitioners.
Learn about The Menopause Society: Likely referring to The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), which provides guidance and information on menopause management.
Learn about ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine): An organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive medicine, including fertility preservation.

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

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

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio
Zoe Rodriguez, MD, serves as Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and holds the position of Vice Chair of Operations at Mount Sinai’s Downtown campus. Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and a fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. She is recognized for her expertise in minimally invasive gynecological surgery and is an APGO (Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics) Surgical Scholar specializing in hysteroscopic procedures.

**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**
37 min
April 30, 2024LISTEN AGAIN: When Intimacy Hurts: Navigating Solutions for Chronic Vulvar Pain | Dr. Jill Krapf
Listen as Dr. Jill Krapf shares insights about vulvodynia, a condition that affects millions of women with chronic vulvar pain.
Episode Summary
In this enlightening episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, host Georgie Kovacs sits down with Dr. Jill Krapf to discuss the complexities of vulvodynia, a condition affecting millions of women worldwide. Dr. Krapf explains the various aspects of vulvar pain, offering deep insights into its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments. Learn as she sheds light on a topic that’s often covered in mystery and misdiagnosis and empowers women with knowledge on how to address this condition.
Key Takeaways
What is vulvodynia, how common is it, and how to raise awareness among patients and healthcare providers
Challenges in diagnosing vulvodynia and stories of women who visit multiple healthcare providers without receiving proper care
Vulvodynia treatment and management options such as hormonal, physical, and nerve-related therapies
The importance of improving women’s outcomes through education about sexual health symptoms, intimacy concerns, and vulva pain
Ways to encourage dialogue between patients and healthcare professionals
How to access vulvodynia specialists and other experts for individualized treatment
Ways to make the most of available healthcare resources and develop a vulvodynia self-care plan

“When a woman comes to me and she says, 'I have burning, irritation, rawness, discomfort in this area, mainly with insertion, with intimacy, with sex,' but also, she may have discomfort at other times too—maybe inserting a tampon is uncomfortable, or maybe it's completely unprovoked, meaning you don't even have to touch the area, but just wearing tight clothing or simply sitting can be painful. These symptoms indicate a complexity that requires a thorough examination and personalized approach to treatment.” - Dr. Jill Krapf
Related to this episode:
Resources and episodes on Sexual Health

Learn more about Dr. Jill Krapf and follow her on Instagram
Learn about Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders - Offers comprehensive information and resources on vulvar pain.
Check out International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH) - Provides educational resources for providers and patients.

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

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

**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio
Dr. Jill Krapf is a board-certified Obstetrician Gynecologist specializing in female sexual pain disorders at The Center for Vulvovaginal Disorders in Washington, D.C and Florida. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at The George Washington University. Dr. Krapf is active in research and has published chapters and peer-reviewed articles on vulvodynia and vulvar lichen sclerosus. She is Associate Editor for the medical journal Sexual Medicine, as well as for the textbook Female Sexual Pain Disorders, 2nd Edition. She is a Fellow of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH), serving on the Education Committee and the Social Media Committee. She shares educational content on her Instagram page @jillkrapfmd.

**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**
51 min
April 23, 2024Fempower Health Digest: Honoring National Infertility Awareness Week | April 2024
Episode Description:
Join host Georgie Kovacs in this poignant episode of Fempower Health, as she shares her personal infertility journey during National Infertility Awareness Week. Georgie recounts her four-year quest to conceive, which involved navigating numerous healthcare systems, enduring misdiagnoses, and undergoing various fertility treatments until she finally became a mother. Alongside her compelling narrative, she answers frequently asked questions about infertility, and explores cutting-edge advancements in women's health and fertility. This episode offers a unique blend of personal experiences and professional insights, aimed at empowering listeners to advocate for effective fertility care.
Key Takeaways:
Early and Accurate Diagnosis in Infertility: Georgie's story emphasizes the necessity of receiving a timely and correct diagnosis when dealing with infertility issues. Her experiences highlight the significant impact of medical diligence and proactive healthcare.
Self-Advocacy and Education in Fertility: Throughout her fertility journey, Georgie exemplified the need for patients to advocate for themselves and seek comprehensive information. Her proactive approach in demanding further testing and second opinions illustrates the importance of self-advocacy in fertility treatments.
Diverse Fertility Treatment Options: Georgie explored an array of fertility solutions, from IVF and IUI to embryo banking and surgeries. Her journey underscores the need for personalized fertility treatment plans and the availability of multiple options to suit individual circumstances.
Innovations in Fertility and Women's Health: The episode discusses technological advancements in fertility treatments, such as at-home IUI kits and fertility tracking applications. These innovations have revolutionized fertility management, offering new possibilities and greater control to individuals facing fertility challenges.
Emotional Aspects of Infertility: The psychological impact of infertility is a central theme in Georgie’s discussion. She talks about the emotional challenges, societal pressures, and the importance of finding support through resources like Resolve: The National Infertility Association. This takeaway stresses the need for emotional support and community in navigating infertility.

This episode not only sheds light on the complex and often heartbreaking journey towards parenthood but also offers valuable insights and resources for those navigating similar paths.

Mentioned in this episode: / Resources:

Fempower Health’s resources on infertility and trying to conceive
Organizations providing trusted resources and support: American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Resolve: The National Infertility Association
Examples of fertility tracking tools/devices: PROOV, OOVA and Mira Fertility
At-home kit for IUI - Mosie Baby
Recent podcast episodes: Listen here
Book recommendations: Browse the Book Shop
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**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.**

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29 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.