What’s the silent threat that could derail your independence in midlife? We’re breaking down why bone health is key to your long-term well-being.

In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Lanoff, a nurse practitioner with a passion for women’s health, to explore the critical connection between menopause and bone health. We uncover the rapid decline in bone density during menopause, why early screening with DEXA scans is crucial, and how hormone therapy can make all the difference.

Jen shares her journey from public defender to nurse practitioner and explains why she’s on a mission to empower women with actionable steps to protect their health and quality of life. We also dive into the nuances of osteoporosis treatments, from the benefits of anti-resorptives and anabolics to practical lifestyle modifications.

If you’ve ever wondered how to interpret a DEXA scan, what medications are truly effective, or why bone health impacts everything from mobility to longevity, this conversation is packed with evidence-based insights. Jen’s relatable approach and dedication to patient care make this episode both educational and empowering.

Whether you’re entering menopause, supporting someone in midlife, or just want to better understand your body, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into maintaining health and independence.

• How menopause accelerates bone density loss
• The essential role of estrogen in preventing osteoporosis
• Why early DEXA scans can be life-changing
• Busting myths about osteoporosis prevention and treatment
• Proactive steps to maintain health and independence

Subscribe, like, and comment to join the conversation about thriving in midlife. Let’s prioritize your health together!

Jennifers Bio:

Jennifer Lanoff, WHNP-BC, MSCP, JD, is a board-certified Women’s Health and Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner. She currently has a GYN-only practice at Reiter, Hill and Johnson, an Advantia Practice, and sees patients in their Washington, DC, Chevy Chase, MD, and Falls Church, VA offices, where she focuses on menopause, osteoporosis, complex sexual health disorders, pelvic floor dysfunction, incontinence, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, persistent genital arousal disorder, and other vulvovaginal disorders such as vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, and genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM) in addition to well-woman exams and related care. 

Jennifer has a passion for gynecological health and well-being at all stages of life. She is a Menopause Society (formerly NAMS) Certified Provider and currently serves as the Chair of the Menopause Society Education Committee, in addition to being on the Trustee Nominating Committee and a peer reviewer for the Menopause Journal. She also serves on Ms. Medicine’s Physician Executive Group, The Body Agency’s Medical Expert Board, and on the National Menopause Foundation’s (NMF) Medical Advisory Committee (MAC). She is a member of The Menopause Society, The International Menopause Society, the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH), the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, the American Urogynecology Society, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), and the Society for Family Planning (SFP).

Jennifer completed her undergraduate studies at Stanford University, receiving her MSN at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, and her Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Georgetown School of Nursing. Prior to entering the medical field, Jennifer earned a law degree from the University of Michigan Law School and was a trial and appellate attorney for over 20 years at the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia. 

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Did you know that intrusive thoughts and anxiety could amplify physical pain and discomfort? Let me share how obsessive-compulsive disorder intertwines with one of the most distressing sexual health conditions.

Persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) is one of the most misunderstood and challenging conditions I treat. But what happens when the brain is part of the problem? In this episode, I dive into the intriguing and often overlooked connection between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and PGAD.

From brain hiccups to catastrophic thoughts, I unpack how mental health can fuel this condition and why understanding the mind-body relationship is key to effective treatment. I’ll share my experiences treating patients and offer practical insights on how addressing mental health, pelvic floor therapy, and tailored interventions can provide relief. Whether you’re a patient or a clinician, this episode sheds light on why treating “region five” is just as critical as addressing physical symptoms.

• My five-region approach to treating PGAD.
• How OCD symptoms worsen PGAD and affect intimacy.
• Why exposure response therapy is vital for tackling intrusive thoughts.
• The role of pelvic floor therapy and medication in managing symptoms.
• Resources I recommend for finding help and support.

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Follow me on YouTube at Gyno Girl TV and Instagram @GynoGirl for more expert content!

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Life is fleeting, and the lessons it teaches us often come from the most unexpected places. Join me as I reflect on the challenges, triumphs, and goals that have shaped me—and why making an impact matters.

As the year turns, I’m taking a moment to reflect on 2024—the challenges, the growth, and the goals I’ve set for the year ahead. In this deeply personal episode, I’m sharing my journey through loss, the lessons my patients have taught me, and the reasons I continue to fight for better healthcare.

Losing my mother this year was a defining moment for me. Grief has a way of reshaping your perspective, forcing you to pause and reevaluate what really matters. While the pain is still raw, it has also deepened my commitment to my work and my mission: to educate so you can advocate for yourself.

I’ll also take you back to my early days as a burnt-out OB-GYN, navigating the challenges of starting my private practice and finding my calling in sexual medicine and menopause care. These experiences shaped who I am today and taught me the value of persistence, curiosity, and building a strong community.

This episode isn’t just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. I’ll share how I’m planning to make an impact in 2025, both in my personal life and in my practice. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of your next step, I hope my story reminds you that even in the hardest moments, there’s a path to growth and purpose.

Let’s walk into 2025 together—stronger, more focused, and ready to make a difference.

1. How losing my mother reshaped my perspective and deepened my purpose.
2. Why I left OB-GYN to build a private practice focused on sexual medicine and menopause care.
3. The patients and mentors who inspired my passion for advocacy and education.
4. My reflections on grief, resilience, and building a legacy.
5. How I’m setting my goals for 2025 and why I believe in starting the year with intention.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, like, and share it with someone who might benefit from hearing it. Leave a comment about your favorite moment or what inspired you most. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and impact together.

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What if the key to fixing your sexual health wasn’t just about you, but your partner too? Discover why treating sexual dysfunction is a team effort—and how we’ve been getting it wrong.

When it comes to sexual health, the focus is often one-sided. But the reality is that sexual dysfunction is rarely an individual issue—it’s a couple’s disease.I talk with Dr. Mohit Khera, renowned urologist and past president of SMSNA, to unpack the disparities in sexual health treatment for men and women and why it’s time to rethink our approach.

Dr. Khera shares personal insights from his career, revealing how focusing on one partner’s libido or function can create unexpected challenges in a relationship. We explore the hidden world of male sexual dysfunction, from erectile dysfunction to Peyronie’s disease, and uncover why women’s sexual health still lags behind in research, funding, and treatment options.

We also tackle the controversial topic of testosterone—its impact on men and women, the myths around its use, and why it’s still inaccessible for women despite clear benefits. Dr. Khera offers actionable advice on lifestyle changes, sleep, and stress management that can dramatically improve sexual function for both partners.

This isn’t just about medicine—it’s about partnership, communication, and the power of addressing sexual health as a team. Join us for a candid discussion that might change the way you think about intimacy, health, and what it means to truly support your partner.

1. Why sexual dysfunction is a “couple’s disease” and how treating one partner impacts the other.
2. The silent epidemic of Peyronie’s disease and its profound emotional toll.
3. The overlooked benefits of testosterone for women and why FDA-approved options remain elusive.
4. How lifestyle changes like the Mediterranean diet, exercise, and sleep can reverse sexual dysfunction.
5. The importance of destigmatizing sexual health concerns and advocating for the right care.

If this episode resonated with you, don’t keep it to yourself! Like, subscribe, and leave a comment to help us continue these essential conversations. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Dr. Khera’s Bio:

Dr. Khera earned his undergraduate degree at Vanderbilt University. He subsequently earned his Masters Degree in Business Administration and his Masters Degree in Public Health from Boston University. He received his Medical Degree from The University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio and completed his Urology residency training in the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine. At Baylor, he completed a one-year general surgery internship and then went on to complete a five-year residency program in Urology.  After completing his Urology residency, he went on to complete a one-year fellowship in Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at Baylor.  Currently, he is a Professor in the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine, and he holds the F. Brantley Scott Chair in Urology. Dr. Khera specializes in male and female sexual dysfunction, Men’s Health, and hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Khera also serves as the Director of the Laboratory for Andrology Research, the Medical Director of the Baylor Executive Health Program, and the Medical Director of the Scott Department of Urology.  He also serves as President of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America.

Dr. Khera has dedicated his clinical and research efforts to three main areas:  Men’s Health, sexual medicine, and hormone replacement therapy.  Soon after completing my fellowship, he started the Laboratory for Andrology Research. His laboratory focuses on basic science research, and he has had the opportunity to train many residents and research fellows over the past 12 years.  In addition to his basic science research, he has initiated numerous FDA-approved clinical trials.  His basic science and clinic experiences have allowed him to thus far give over 250 lectures at scientific meetings throughout the world, publish over 120 articles in peer-reviewed journals, complete 15 book chapters, and edit and write two books, all in the field of sexual medicine and Men’s Health.

In 2007 he was awarded the American Urologic Association (AUA) Research Scholars Award to study the correlation between ED and BPH.    In 2013 he was elected to serve a 4-year term on the American Urologic Society Examination Committee.  Dr. Khera has also served on the AUA Peyronie’s Disease and Erectile Dysfunction Guidelines Panel.  For the past several years, he has taught numerous course in testosterone therapy and sexual dysfunction nationally and throughout the world.

Dr. Khera freely shares his time and knowledge with the general public. He has been voted several times as one of Houston’s Best Doctors by Health and Sport Fitness Magazine and by Houstonia Magazine and is a frequent guest on such TV programs as Fox News’ “Ask the Doctor.” He also writes a blog on Men’s Health for the Houston Chronicle Newspaper.

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Why are women in midlife left struggling while the healthcare system profits? Let me share my perspective on the frustrations, failures, and how we can fight for better care.

Healthcare in the United States is failing millions of people, but women in midlife are hit the hardest. From denied treatments to dismissive attitudes, the system often prioritizes profits over patients. Women dealing with chronic pain, sexual health issues, and menopause-related symptoms are left with little to no support, and I see this every day in my practice.

In this episode, I dive into the layers of frustration felt by both patients and clinicians. I talk about the systemic issues—like insurance companies denying essential care and the burnout faced by healthcare providers—that make navigating the system a nightmare. Using my own experiences as a menopause and sexual medicine specialist, I explore why midlife women are particularly underserved and what that means for their health.

I also discuss alternative care models, like concierge medicine, and how they might help women who feel lost in the system. My goal is to show you how to advocate for your health, find a trusted provider, and break through the barriers keeping you from the care you deserve.

This isn’t just about highlighting the problems—it’s about empowering you to take control of your healthcare journey. With compassion and actionable advice, I hope to leave you feeling inspired to advocate for yourself and demand better.

• Why midlife women and those with sexual health issues are the most neglected by the healthcare system.
• The shocking challenges clinicians face when working with insurance companies.
• How chronic pain and untreated menopause symptoms are connected to mental health struggles.
• The rise of concierge medicine as a more personalized care option.
• Practical tips on advocating for yourself in a system that often fails to prioritize women.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. Share this conversation to help more women understand how to navigate their health journey.

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Have you ever noticed symptoms like anxiety, memory loss, or fatigue creeping up out of nowhere? With Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan, I’m diving into how perimenopause can take women by surprise and why so many doctors miss the hormonal connection.

Menopause isn’t just a transition—it’s a puzzle that too many clinicians fail to solve. In this episode, Aoife and I go beyond the usual conversations about menopause being dismissed and misunderstood. Together, we uncover the deeper issues behind why symptoms like anxiety, memory loss, and mood shifts are often overlooked—even by experienced doctors.

Aoife opens up about her personal struggles with misdiagnosis, sharing how she questioned her own mental health before discovering the role of hormones in her symptoms. What makes this episode different? We tackle hormonal health, mental health, and the gaps in education that leave both patients and clinicians struggling to connect the dots.

This isn’t just about the challenges—it’s about solutions. Aoife’s experience shows that with better training, advocacy, and small changes in care, we can transform lives. We also discuss the systemic changes needed to ensure midlife women are supported, not sidelined.

If you’ve listened before, this episode will add depth and new insights to the conversation. It’s a call to action for women and clinicians alike: let’s stop dismissing midlife symptoms and start treating them with the attention they deserve.

• Aoife’s personal struggle with misdiagnosis and suicidal thoughts in midlife.
• The impact of perimenopause on mental health, memory, and executive function.
• How the healthcare system fails women by misunderstanding menopause.
• The importance of hormone therapy trials and finding the right provider.
• Steps women can take to advocate for themselves and their healthcare needs.

Dr. O'Sullivan’s Bio:

Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan is a board-certified family physician with training in Ireland and the U.S., specializing in women’s midlife care. Her curiosity about the unique health challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause led her to extensive training with experts like Dr. Heather Hirsch and Dr. Louise Newson. A Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, she is passionate about education and regularly lectures to clinicians and the community on menopause care. Currently, she sees patients through The Heather Hirsch Collaborative, providing expert telemedicine care for midlife women.

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What if trauma from your past is impacting your health today—and no one’s talking about it? Join me and Dr. Heather Quaile as we talk about the essential truths about trauma-informed care and midlife health.

Heather, a seasoned nurse practitioner and sexual medicine expert, shares her journey from traditional healthcare to creating a compassionate, patient-centered approach that addresses the real-life challenges women face, especially in midlife.

We dive into how trauma—whether it’s from childhood, medical experiences, or societal pressures—can manifest in symptoms like severe menopause and chronic pain. Heather breaks down the "big T" and "little t" traumas and explains how acknowledging these experiences can transform patient care. We also discuss the power of the ACE score (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and how it should be a part of every clinician's toolkit.

Heather shares her experience working with trafficking survivors, addressing not just the immediate medical needs but the long-term emotional recovery these patients require. Her work highlights the importance of creating safe, empowering healthcare environments that consider the whole patient—mind, body, and history.

We also discuss why finding the right provider for midlife care is crucial and how to identify clinicians who prioritize evidence-based, patient-centered treatment. From understanding the principles of trauma-informed care to advocating for your health, this episode is packed with practical advice and deep insights.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that challenges the status quo and reminds us all of the importance of compassionate, informed care.

• The connection between trauma and worsening menopause symptoms.
• What trauma-informed care means and why it’s vital in healthcare settings.
• How ACE scores help identify patients at higher risk for chronic health conditions.
• Heather’s work with trafficking survivors and lessons for all healthcare providers.
• Tips for finding the right provider for midlife and sexual health.

Heather’s Bio:

Heather’s Bio:

Dr. Heather Quaile, (she/her) is a renowned clinical and academic leader and

entrepreneur. A double board certified, women’s and gender health nurse practitioner

and advanced forensic nurse specializing in human trafficking and female sexual health.

She is a thought leader and creator of the Just Ask podcast. Dr. Quaile is also trained

and certified as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, AASECT sex counselor and

sexual assault nurse examiner providing sexual health education, trauma-informed

care, and information to patients of all ages. She created and implemented a medical

program for emergency stabilization for commercial sexual exploitation of youth in

Georgia. Dr. Quaile has been working in all aspects of women’s healthcare for over 23

years caring for women of all ages across the health-illness continuum and recognized

the lack of sexual health awareness not just in her community but in its providers. She

founded, developed, and implemented her private practice The Sexual Health

Optimization and Wellness (SHOW) Center. Her goal is to help guide patients through

their healthcare journey and provide a range of services that address the

biopsychosocial aspects of health, wellness, optimization, and sexuality.  She is

passionate about changing the systems and beliefs that have stigmatized women’s

health and female sexuality through a non-judgmental, empathic approach grounded in

evidence-based research. She is a Fellow of the International Society for the Study of

Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) and Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse

Practitioners.  She is the chair of the ISSWSH scientific committee and past Treasurer

of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. She is on the

National Menopause Foundation medical advisory committee as well as the Governor’s

Task for human trafficking and sex offenders. She is widely published in the field of

women’s health, trauma-informed care, and is a highly sought after speaker for lectures

to international and national audiences.

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How can vibrators play a role in healing and self-discovery? In this episode, I sit down with Lara Pack to explore her transformative journey from personal pain to becoming an advocate for women’s health. Lara’s story began with her struggles with vaginismus and sexual pain, which inspired her to create vibrators designed not only for pleasure but for healing and empowerment.

Lara shares how her experience with endometriosis and the lack of adequate support from healthcare providers drove her to develop her company, Elixir Play. With a focus on ethical, body-positive products, Lara is challenging societal taboos and creating tools that help women reclaim their sexual health. Her products are more than just devices—they’re part of a larger mission to bridge the gap between medical advocacy and personal empowerment.

In this candid conversation, we discuss why vibrators deserve a place in medical settings, their benefits for pelvic floor therapy and sexual pain, and the ways they can aid in rehabilitation. Lara also opens up about balancing her advocacy work with her role as a mother and her vision for creating a more inclusive dialogue around women’s sexual health.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of education, innovation, and breaking down stigmas. Lara’s commitment to advocacy and her drive to empower women will leave you inspired and ready to take charge of your own health journey.

Episode Highlights:

• Lara’s journey through vaginismus and how it shaped her mission in sexual health advocacy.
• The untapped potential of vibrators in promoting healing and pelvic floor health.
• Overcoming stigma and breaking taboos in conversations around sexual wellness.
• The challenges Lara faced in developing ethical and inclusive pleasure products.
• Why advocating for women’s health starts with education and open communication.

If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the podcast. Share this episode with anyone who could benefit from Lara’s inspiring story and insights. Let’s keep the conversation going and help create a more supportive, informed dialogue around women’s health. Follow us on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to support the show!

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Did you know that many menopause myths could be impacting your health choices? Dr. Heather Hirsch joins us to clear the confusion and empower women with the facts.

Menopause is often clouded by myths and misinformation, leaving many women confused about their health options. In this episode, Dr. Sameena Rahman invites Dr. Heather Hirsch, a dedicated expert in women's health, to share her journey into menopause care and the profound insights she's gained over the past decade. 

From the misconceptions surrounding HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) to the nuanced challenges of treating perimenopause, Dr. Hirsch discusses her unique "hormone stacking" approach and how it aids in managing side effects effectively. 

This conversation goes beyond surface-level explanations, diving into the realities of balancing treatment, understanding progesterone sensitivities, and how personalized care makes a difference in women's experiences. Listen in for a blend of clinical expertise and relatable advice that champions informed choices and women's health advocacy.

• Dr. Hirsch’s Journey: From OBGYN to menopause specialist—how her path shaped her passion for women’s health.
• Hormone Stacking Insight: Why introducing hormones one at a time can be transformative for treatment.
• Perimenopause Realities: Breaking down misconceptions and exploring why tailored care is essential.
• Progesterone Sensitivities: Understanding the third-rule approach to help patients navigate side effects.
• Brain Health & HRT: The untold story of how hormone therapy impacts cognitive function and mental health.

Enjoyed this discussion? Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a comment. Your engagement helps us bring you more expert conversations. What other guest would you like to see on the podcast. Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know!

Dr. Hirsch’s Bio :

HEATHER HIRSCH, M.D., MS, NCMP, is the founder of the Menopause & Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a former Harvard Medical School faculty member. Board certified in Internal Medicine, she completed advanced fellowship training in Women’s Health at the Cleveland Clinic. Her practice specializes in menopausal hormone therapy, perimenopause, breast cancer survivorship, sexual dysfunction, and bone health. Dr. Hirsch is an active member of the North American Menopause Society and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and serves on the medical advisory board of Midi Health. She now sees patients via her private telemedicine practice.

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Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics related to cultural practices, sexual health, and trauma that may be triggering for some listeners.

In many cultures, deep-seated traditions shape women's lives in unexpected and profound ways. This episode delves into the intricate world of women's health, sexuality, and the rites of passage that are still practiced today, shedding light on the complex balance between cultural pride and personal empowerment.

This conversation takes you into the lesser-known rituals and beliefs surrounding women's sexual health in North African cultures. Dr. Rahman is joined by Dr. Ons Kaabia, who shares fascinating insights into traditional rites of passage, one practice with roots far beyond modern religion. They discuss the role of matriarchs in maintaining these practices, the dichotomy between preserving cultural heritage and promoting individual empowerment, and the complex experiences of women navigating sexual health in the context of deep cultural expectations. Through empathy and evidence-based knowledge, this episode fosters understanding and builds awareness around sensitive topics often hidden from mainstream discussions.

• The role of the matriarch in traditional protective rituals and their impact on young girls.
• The significance of rituals in preserving family and cultural honor.
• The challenges women face when navigating modern health practices alongside deep-rooted cultural beliefs.
• How comprehensive, culturally aware sexual health education can empower future generations.
• The complex emotions and societal pressures surrounding these traditions.

If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with others. Your comments and thoughts are always welcome—let’s continue this important conversation!

In many cultures, deep-seated traditions shape women's lives in unexpected and profound ways. This episode delves into the intricate world of women's health, sexuality, and the rites of passage that are still practiced today, shedding light on the complex balance between cultural pride and personal empowerment.

This conversation takes you into the lesser-known rituals and beliefs surrounding women's sexual health in North African cultures. Dr. Rahman is joined by Dr. Ons Kaabia, who shares fascinating insights into traditional rites of passage, one practice with roots far beyond modern religion. They discuss the role of matriarchs in maintaining these practices, the dichotomy between preserving cultural heritage and promoting individual empowerment, and the complex experiences of women navigating sexual health in the context of deep cultural expectations. Through empathy and evidence-based knowledge, this episode fosters understanding and builds awareness around sensitive topics often hidden from mainstream discussions.

• The role of the matriarch in traditional protective rituals and their impact on young girls.
• The significance of rituals in preserving family and cultural honor.
• The challenges women face when navigating modern health practices alongside deep-rooted cultural beliefs.
• How comprehensive, culturally aware sexual health education can empower future generations.
• The complex emotions and societal pressures surrounding these traditions.

If you found this episode insightful, please like, subscribe, and share it with others. Your comments and thoughts are always welcome—let’s continue this important conversation!

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