Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

Women with pelvic congestion syndrome experience chronic pelvic pain pelvic varicose veins, and more. Learn about this underrecognized condition from Dr. Mari Tassarotti.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we’re joined by Dr. Mari Tassarotti, an expert in interventional radiology from Columbia University. We discuss the complexities of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), a condition characterized by chronic pelvic pain arising from varicose veins in the pelvis. 

We explore why Pelvic Congestion Syndrome remains underrecognized and often misdiagnosed. Dr. Tassarotti shares her insights on PCS diagnosis, innovative treatment options, and why seeking a second opinion can be crucial for patients navigating this condition.

Key Discussion Points

• What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) and why is it so hard to get the right diagnosis?  
• Symptoms that distinguish PCS from other conditions and why it's a hidden cause of chronic pelvic pain.
• Questions women should be asking their healthcare providers if concerned about PCS or pelvic varicose veins.
• Pelvic congestion syndrome radiology and other Innovative, minimally invasive PCS treatments that are changing the game for PCS patients, and why these options might be preferable to traditional surgical methods.
• Challenges of getting PCS recognized by the medical community and insurance providers.
• Real-life stories shared by Georgie and Dr. Tassarotti that highlight the profound impact proper diagnosis and treatment can have on women's lives. 

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Pelvic Health

• Learn more about Dr. Mari Tassarotti
• Follow Dr. Tassarotti on LinkedIn and Twitter.
• Learn about Interventional Radiology and Pelvic Congestion Embolization
• Looking for an interventional radiologist?  Check out this list from the Society of Interventional Radiology.

1. Help others discover Fempower Health:

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**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio

Dr. Mari Tassarotti is an assistant professor of radiology and an interventional radiologist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, also attending at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Specializing in a broad range of conditions, her interests focus on hepatic malignancies, uterine fibroids, pelvic congestion syndrome in women, venous disease, and more. 

Her medical training spans Integrated Interventional Radiology and Diagnostic Radiology at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, with a medical degree from Georgetown University. She holds a BA from Harvard College.

Beyond patient care, Tassarotti contributes to pelvic congestion syndrome research, advocates for gender diversity in her field, and resides in Manhattan with her family.

**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**

What is a baby tongue tie and how is it treated properly? Learn as Dr. Shaina Holman & Victoria Facelli share their expertise.

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, host Georgie Kovacs sits down with Victoria Facelli, an internationally board-certified lactation consultant and author of "Feed the Baby," and Dr. Shaina Holman, a dentist with a PhD in infant psychophysiology. Together, we discuss the intricate topic of tongue ties in babies. 

This conversation comes in the wake of recent New York Times articles that have brought tongue ties and their treatment into the spotlight, raising concerns and debate among new parents and healthcare professionals alike. 

Our guests bring their extensive expertise and unique perspectives to offer a nuanced understanding of tongue ties, addressing common misconceptions, the importance of multidisciplinary care, and the ethical considerations in treatment. Whether you're struggling with breastfeeding, considering tongue tie release for your baby, or simply seeking reliable information, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice. 

Key Discussion Points

• What are tongue ties and how do they affect infant feeding (breastfeeding and bottle-feeding)?
• Are there long-term effects of tongue ties (speech, sleep apnea, dental health)?
• Symptoms of tongue ties in babies 
• The surge in tongue tie diagnoses and treatments, including concerns about overdiagnosis and the role of healthcare professionals in promoting unnecessary procedures.
• Differences between scissors and laser tongue tie procedures, including benefits, risks, and factors influencing the choice of tongue tie treatment.
• The significance of a team approach involving lactation consultants, dentists, bodyworkers, and other specialists in achieving the best outcomes for babies with tongue ties.
• Navigating insurance coverage, Medicaid, and payment options for families seeking treatment for tongue tied babies.
• Information for parents on how to advocate for their babies, the importance of seeking knowledgeable and ethical providers, and resources for families with limited financial means.

"It's very common that when [babies] can't use their tongues very well, their upper lip muscles get really active... But that's not always because the structure itself is tight. It's often because the tongue is tight." 

— Dr. Shaina Holman

Related to this episode:

• Resources Perimenopause and Menopause
• Read Inside the Booming Business of Cutting Babies’ Tongues and What Parents Should Know About Tongue-Tie Releases by NYTimes
• Read reactions to the original NYTimes articles in Opinion | The Controversy Over Tongue Surgery for Infants
• Learn more about Victoria Facelli, IBCL and follow her on Instagram and TikTok
• Learn more about Dr. Shaina Holman and follow her on Instagram
• Read the Policy on Management of the Frenulum in Pediatric Patients

1. Help others discover Fempower Health:

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**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bios

Dr. Shaina Holman, D.D.S., PH.D., graduated from East Chapel Hill High School where she also met her husband. Her passion for science, teaching, and art was on clear display early in her life. During high school she was able to do research at Duke University, resulting in her first publication in a peer-reviewed journal! Since then, she’s been fortunate to publish over a dozen peer-reviewed research articles.

Dr. Holman went on to graduate with distinction from Duke University with a degree in Biological Anthropology and Anatomy. Her passion for dentistry began during college while doing a project for her Ethnobiology class in Costa Rica. She saw how dentistry combined her love for people and her love of science, research, art, and community impact.  

Lactation Consultant, but not the kind who hates formula. Victoria Facelli, IBCLC is a graduate of the Global Breastfeeding Institute's lactation program as well as a graduate of the infant feeding school of hard knocks. After not being able to breastfeed her own baby she set out to change the way we talk about feeding babies.  Victoria wrote Feed The Baby: An Inclusive Guide to Nursing, Bottle Feeding and Everything In Between to give families more tools. We are done with best. What families really need are the tools to change their mind to meet their own moment in parenting and infant feeding.

**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**

Learn what happened this month in the world of women’s health! New updates go live every fourth Tuesday of the month as Georgie Kovacs, founder of Fempower Health, shares a recap of the latest news and insights. 

For more deep dives into women’s health, sexuality, wellness, and life stages, enjoy interviews with experts and change-makers every Tuesday on the Fempower Health podcast. 

And if you have a suggestion for what you want Georgie to cover next, send an email: [email protected]

• The Gold Rush in Women's Health: Exploring the New Frontier
• Time Crunch: The Race Against the Clock in Doctor's Visits
• Empowerment Through Advocacy: Unlocking the Power of Proactivity
• AI: The Next Revolution in Women's Health
• Navigating the Maze: Systemic Challenges and Solutions in Women's Healthcare 

• Recent podcast episodes: Listen here
• Book recommendations: Browse the Book Shop
• Sign up for the Fempower Health Newsletter

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:

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**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Georgie Kovacs is a seasoned professional with over two decades of healthcare expertise, having made significant contributions at industry giants like Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. With a background spanning healthcare strategy, entrepreneurship, and consulting, Georgie's journey took a personal turn when she faced infertility challenges. In response, she launched Fempower Health in 2020, a pioneering platform that empowers women with evidence-based insights and support. Collaborating with top experts, Georgie Kovacs is dedicated to redefining the narrative surrounding women's health, ensuring every woman has the knowledge and resources to thrive. 

**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**

Learn the correlation between women’s health and menopause. Dr. Lauren Streicher shares the essentials of menopause management and tips for healthy aging.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Lauren Streicher, a distinguished expert in menopause management, joins to share her insights on this important life stage. Dr. Streicher discusses the complexities of menopause, offering facts and practical advice for women. With a career dedicated to enhancing women's health, she brings a wealth of knowledge from her clinical experience, research, and as the author of several pivotal books on menopause. This conversation explores the main aspects of menopause, from symptom management to the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, and how to embrace this transformative stage of life. 

Key Discussion Points

• An overview of women’s health and menopause, including high blood pressure, joint pain, insulin resistance, sleep disturbances, and hair loss.
• The complex relationship between menopause and painful intercourse, and the importance of accurate diagnosis beyond genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
• Strategies for finding access to a menopause specialist.
• The role of estrogen in the management of menopausal symptoms.
• Potential benefits and considerations for menopause hormone therapy.
• Efficacy, precautions, and recommendations regarding cannabis for menopause relief.
• The relationship between menopause and mental health, and how this can impact cognitive function.
• How to prepare for doctor's appointments when managing menopause and wanting to address your symptoms and concerns.
• Viewing menopause and aging as opportunities to focus on health, well-being, and embracing a new chapter in life.

Related to this episode:

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

• Read Dr. Streicher’s story and follow her on LinkedIn
• Midi Health: www.joinmidi.com 
• Check out Dr Streicher’s Inside Information podcast

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:

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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. Lauren Streicher, MD, is a renowned expert in women's health, specializing in menopause and sexual medicine as the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health and the founding director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Menopause and Sexual Medicine. A Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, Dr. Streicher is a Certified Menopause Practitioner, contributing to the journal Menopause and a Senior Research Fellow at the Kinsey Institute. As a best-selling author, she provides insights on menopause through books like "Sex Rx" and "Hot Flash Hell" and hosts the informative podcast “Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information.” Featured on top media outlets like The Today Show, CNN, and NPR, Dr. Streicher’s contributions to women’s health and menopause are widely recognized.

**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**

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.

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

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**

Learn about endometriosis and pelvic health physical therapy to manage chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Caitlyn Tivy shares her experience and expertise to help women find relief.

Episode Summary

In this final episode of Fempower Health's four-part series on endometriosis, Dr. Caitlyn Tivy, a distinguished pelvic health physical therapist, shares the intricacies of managing endometriosis and pelvic pain. With a foundation in biomedical research and specialized training in pelvic floor physical therapy, Dr. Tivy emphasizes the importance of patient involvement, holistic treatment strategies, and the role of emotional health in physical well-being. She highlights innovative developments in telemedicine and the exploration of the vaginal microbiome as promising avenues for future advancements in pelvic health care. We discuss the intersection of physical health, PTSD, and trauma history in pelvic pain treatment. 

Key Takeaways

• How combining manual therapies, patient education, and at-home care can lead to significant improvements in managing endometriosis pelvic pain
• Why being an active participant in your endometriosis treatment plan can dramatically impact pain management 
• How telehealth is breaking barriers to access pelvic pain treatment, offering new hope to those in remote or underserved areas
• The latest research on how the vaginal microbiome impacts pelvic health and what it means for the future of pelvic pain treatment
• How the brain and nervous system contribute to your experience of endometriosis and pelvic pain
• Why consulting with a pelvic floor physical therapist post-surgery can improve your recovery process
• Myths around pelvic floor exercises like Kegels vs. their appropriate role and application in pelvic pain therapy
• A complex story about an endometriosis patient and the multifaceted approach to her recovery

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Endometriosis

• Follow Caitlyn Tivy on  LinkedIn and her website
• Part 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support
• Part 2 of 4: Endometriosis Care, Treatment Options, and Patient Advocacy
• Part 3 of 4: Endometriosis Surgery, Recovery, and Personalized Care

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

Caitlyn is a medical communicator with a deep commitment to inclusive health care, bridging the gap between complex scientific data and accessible information for all genders. Her journey began in biomedical research, transitioning to clinical care as a pelvic health physical therapist, where she gained insights into the effects of endometriosis and similar conditions. Since 2021, Caitlyn has been innovating in the femtech and startup sector, co-creating a virtual women's health program that tackles pelvic pain and urinary incontinence. As the president of C Tivy Consulting, she champions effective communication for health companies serving women, men, and the LGBTQIA community. Connect with Caitlyn on LinkedIn and her website to explore the intersection of health communication and technology.

**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**

Dr. Shanti Mohling shares the details of endometriosis surgery, recovery, and pelvic floor therapy as important treatment options for patients with this condition.

Episode Summary

In this third episode of Fempower Health's series on endometriosis, Dr. Shanti Mohling, a minimally invasive surgeon, who devotes her clinical activity to patients with pelvic pain and endometriosis, explores the importance of excision surgery, the challenges of diagnosing and treating endometriosis, and strategies for managing its recurrence. She emphasizes the need for early detection, multidisciplinary approaches, and personalized care in improving outcomes for those affected by this complex condition.

Key Takeaways

• Why surgery is the most effective treatment for endometriosis and how to find a doctor trained in endometriosis excision surgery. 
• Screening and early detection of endometriosis, especially in adolescence, to prevent more invasive procedures later in life.
• Advantages of taking a multidisciplinary approach to endometriosis treatment and healthcare in general.
• Difficulties in diagnosing endometriosis, especially through imaging tests.
• Surgery's role in improving fertility, debunking myths such as pregnancy as a cure for endometriosis.
• Benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy to manage endometriosis and pelvic pain effectively.
• What the healing process of endometriosis surgery entails.
• The complexity of healthcare for endometriosis patients and the value of raising awareness and understanding of the condition.

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Endometriosis

• Follow Dr. Shanti Mohling on Instagram
• Learn more about Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery in Portland, Oregon
• Part 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support
• Part 2 of 4: Endometriosis Care, Treatment Options, and Patient Advocacy

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. Shanti Mohling completed medical school and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Colorado and has been board certified since 2003. She spent 15 years in private practice in New Mexico. In 2014 she returned to training and completed a fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecology (MIGS) at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga. She served as faculty and Director of Gynecology in Chattanooga through 2019. In Spring of 2021, Dr. Mohling joined Northwest Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery in Portland, Oregon. She now devotes her clinical activity to patients with pelvic pain and endometriosis.

**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**

Katie Boyce shares her expert insights on endometriosis care, treatment options, and the importance of patient advocacy for long-term management.

Details

Episode Summary

In this second episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, we speak with guest Katie Boyce, a Board Certified Patient Advocate with a robust background in biochemistry and astrophysics. We discuss the complexities of endometriosis care from patient and specialist perspectives. We explore the treatment options for endometriosis as well as its causes and the critical importance of specialized care. 

Through Katie's personal journey with endometriosis and her experience working with endometriosis patients, she shares expert insights on the nuances of endometriosis diagnosis, the controversy surrounding various treatments, and the hopeful future of new medical advancements.

Key Takeaways

• What makes endometriosis a particularly challenging condition to understand, diagnose, and treat
• Pros and cons of popular endometriosis treatments, including the debated use of drugs like Lupron and Orilissa, and what the latest research says
• The critical role of expert surgery for endometriosis and fertility concerns, and why choosing the right surgeon matters for long-term outcomes
• How endometriosis patients can navigate the healthcare system to find the best care for endometriosis, including tips for vetting doctors and making informed treatment decisions.
• Promising new treatments for endometriosis and the future of research in the field, offering hope to those affected by the condition

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Endometriosis

• Connect with Kate Boyce and follow her on Instagram
• Part 1 of 4: Innovations in Endometriosis Diagnosis, Pelvic Pain Management, and Patient Support

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

Katie is a board-certified patient advocate, owner of Endo Solutions LLC, and consulting chemist with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. She assists individuals in finding the right integrative healthcare team needed to navigate the complexities of living with Endometriosis. Additionally, Katie educates and empowers patients on social media, working to bridge the gap between healthcare providers, researchers, and patients. She serves as a consumer reviewer for evaluating medical research applications submitted to the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, reflecting her commitment to ensuring the patient's voice is heard and that research initiatives align with tangible patient outcomes

**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**

In this first episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, Margaret Melville of Lasa Health joins to discuss this underrepresented condition. Margaret transformed her decade-long struggle with endometriosis and celiac disease into a mission to improve women’s healthcare today. She talks about the alarming shortage of OB-GYNs and primary care providers who have specialized training in endometriosis and the importance of early diagnosis of endometriosis to manage this progressive disease. 

We explore common misconceptions and myths about endometriosis, the dangers of false cures, and the importance of patient advocacy and clinician education. We also cover the many applications of Lasa Health, a technology platform designed for women with chronic pelvic pain. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the complexities of endometriosis and pelvic pain or find endometriosis support.

Key Takeaways

• The importance of early diagnosis for effective management of endometriosis and prevention of chronic pain or organ loss
• The need for clinicians to educate themselves and their patients about endometriosis, self-advocacy, and treatment options
• Margaret’s background in global health innovation and the founding of Lasa Health, which improves diagnosis and pain management of endometriosis through technology and education
• Real-life applications of AI in improving patient care quality
• Systemic issues in healthcare that hinder effective diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis
• False “cures” of endometriosis to be aware of
• The future of endometriosis care, including further innovation and community advocacy
• A preview of upcoming episodes, including interviews with endometriosis specialists, advocates, and surgeons

Related to this episode:

• Resources for Endometriosis
• Learn more about Lasa Health: www.lasahealth.com 
• Follow Margaret on LinkedIn

1. Help others discover Fempower Health:

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2. Stay connected:

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**Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024**

Guest Bio

Margaret Melville is the CEO & Cofounder of Lasa Health. She suffered from pelvic pain for over a decade and visited 25 doctors before finally being diagnosed with endometriosis and celiac disease. Margaret previously worked at USAID's Global Health Center for Innovation and co-founded a medical device startup. She has an MBA from INSEAD. She is passionate about using AI / ML to revolutionize the way we diagnose and care for women with chronic health conditions. 

**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**

Learn what’s to come in psychedelic therapy research including risk mitigation, contraindications, and treatment purposes as Andrew Penn explores this important subject.

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Andrew Penn, co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses (OPENurses), discusses the use of psychedelics in therapy and the challenges and concerns surrounding this emerging field. He addresses psychedelic misconceptions and hype, emphasizing the need for more research and caution. He also explores the potential benefits and risks of psychedelic retreats as well as the importance of psychedelic harm reduction. 

Penn highlights the specific considerations for using psychedelics in individuals with bipolar disorder and the need for further study in this area. Additionally, he discusses the potential impact of hormonal factors on psychedelic therapy and the recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression. This conversation explores the manifestation of depression, contraindications for psychedelic use, serotonin syndrome, and the future of psychedelics.

Discussed in this episode: 

• The need for psychedelic therapy research to separate the hype from the reality
• Harm reduction strategies, such as safe spaces and support, in the use of psychedelics
• Risks of bipolar disorder and psychedelics and the careful considerations to understand
• Interactions between psychedelics and hormones and the need for more research
• The recent approval of a treatment for postpartum depression in mental health care
• Contraindications for psychedelic use, including a history of psychosis, cardiovascular disorders, and certain medications
• The dangers of serotonin syndrome that can occur from the over-use of psychedelics 
• The use of psychedelics in clinical vs. non-clinical settings 

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Mental Health

• Listen to the series on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
• Learn more about the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses
• Stay in touch with Andrew Penn on his website and LinkedIn.
• Check out Unseen Women in Psychedelic History by Maria Mangini

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

Andrew Penn, MS, PMHNP is a psychiatric nurse practitioner, clinical professor at the UC San Francisco School of Nursing, and a researcher on psychedelic therapies at the UCSF Translational Psychedelic Research Program (TrPR). He has been an investigator in studies examining MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, on psilocybin-assisted therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease and depression, and was a co-PI on the phase 2 study of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression, recently published in JAMA. 

An internationally invited speaker, he has taught at SXSW, TEDx, Aspen Institute, and the Singapore Ministry of Health. Additionally, he has published widely on psychedelic therapies and their intersections with nursing and is the co-founder of the Organization of Psychedelic and Entheogenic Nurses. He can be found at AndrewPennNP.com.

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