In this special women’s health episode of the MS Plus podcast series, Continence Nurse Fiona Easton discusses the impact of menopause and perimenopause on bladder health, especially in women with MS. She elaborates on typical changes during menopause, effective management strategies, and the importance of pelvic floor exercises. This episode provides valuable information for women navigating menopause and its associated bladder changes.

With thanks to Fiona Easton. 

Fiona Easton is a registered nurse as well as an MS Continence Nurse and has been working at MS Plus for over 16 years. Fiona’s main role involves conducting the continence clinic at the MS Blackburn site as well the MS Watsonia and Williamstown supported living sites in Melbourne.

Fiona’s background is that of general nursing and she is currently a registered continence advisor. She has a 4-year psychology degree and has experience in palliative care and crisis counselling.

Fiona enjoys working with people living with multiple sclerosis, including those who are newly diagnosed through to those with chronic symptoms. And she feels they would be the most resilient group of people she has met.

This podcast was developed as part of a comprehensive Women’s Health Resource designed for women living with MS, addressing key topics such as family planning & pregnancy, and menopause. This project was developed in collaboration with women living with MS, with support from expert health professionals.
To explore the full resource, visit: https://www.msplus.org.au/womenshealth

Reach out for support:

MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this special women’s health episode of the MS Plus podcast series, we speak with Susan Agland, an MS neuroimmunology transitional nurse practitioner at John Hunter Hospital, about fertility, subfertility and MS. The discussion covers how MS and its treatments can impact conception, the roles of medication, stress, and the importance of understanding personal risk factors. 

Susan shares insights from a study she is co-leading, on Artificial Reproductive Technologies in MS, emphasising the challenges faced by women with MS undergoing IVF and the need for better guidelines and support. The episode also highlights the contributions of real-world data to understanding medication safety during pregnancy for MS patients. Listen in to gain valuable insight into fertility and family planning, and where to get support when you are having trouble conceiving. 

With thanks to Susan Agland, from the Newcastle Multiple Sclerosis Clinic.

Susan Agland supports the John Hunter MS team as Neuroimmunology Transitional Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in the MS clinic since 2003, starting as clinical trial coordinator for the Ausimmune study. Since then, Susan has studied a Masters of Nursing Research, examining the role of stress management in MS. Susan has a special interest in stress management in MS, subfertility in MS and rural and remote care of the person with neuroimmunological disease.

This podcast was developed as part of a comprehensive Women’s Health Resource designed for women living with MS, addressing key topics such as family planning & pregnancy, and menopause. This project was developed in collaboration with women living with MS, with support from expert health professionals.
To explore the full resource, visit: https://www.msplus.org.au/womenshealth

For more information: 
Pregnancy in MS research survey (ARTiMS) - https://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/our_services/multiple_sclerosis_clinic_newcastle/research

Reach out for support:

MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this episode of the MS Boost, we speak with Dr. Emma Beckett, a passionate science communicator with expertise in food science, nutrition, and biomedical sciences. Dr. Beckett discusses her new book, 'You Are More Than What You Eat,' which focuses on simplifying nutrition and food science to reduce stress and complexity for people, especially those living with MS. The conversation delves into the misconceptions of diet perfection, the challenges of weight management, the societal biases in healthcare, and the importance of focusing on manageable and tailored changes to your diet. Emma emphasizes empowering people to make even the smallest of improvements in their diet, while debunking the myths of a 'perfect' diet and control, and ultimately promoting a more enjoyable and realistic approach to nutrition. This is a compelling conversation that you won’t want to miss. 

“Look after your body, because it’s where you live!” – Dr Emma Beckett

With thanks to Dr Emma Beckett

Dr Emma Beckett (PhD) is a university trained Food and Nutrition Scientist. She has a degree in Biomedical Science and post-graduate degrees in Epidemiology, Food Science, Human Nutrition, & Science Management. 

She is a senior lecturer in Food Science & Human Nutrition at the University of Newcastle Australia and a senior scientist at Nutrition Research Australia. An academic all-rounder, her research outputs span immunology & microbiology, reproductive health, food choice behaviours, gene-nutrient interactions, and nutrient-environment interactions. 

She is also an award winning science communicator who can regularly be found online, in print, giving talks, and on television & radio. She aims to share food and nutrition science in a way that helps empower people to make better food and nutrition choices. Knowledge is power in a world of misinformation at fad diets. 

Referred to as the “Ms Frizzle of Food & Nutrition”, Emma uses her collection of food outfits to spark conversations, sharing fun facts and challenging stereotypes. Food isn’t just fuel, its part of our culture, social lives and should be a joy. The best nutrition choices are the ones that nourish you, bring you joy, and fit with your life - Emma wants to share these concepts to help spread the joy. 

You can read the episode transcript here.

To get support with your diet, reach out to a accredited dietician such as the MS Plus dieticians.

Reach out for support:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this podcast episode, Julie Orr, an accredited dietitian with MS Plus, explores the relationship between diet and menopause, offering easy to follow strategies for managing menopausal symptoms through nutrition. With a focus on evidence-based insights and compassionate guidance, Julie explores the significance of adopting a wholesome diet rich in whole foods, based on current research. She navigates through hot topics such as soy, identifying foods that can either exacerbate or alleviate symptoms like hot flushes, and unpacks the common issue of weight gain among women during this life stage. Listen in to gain valuable insight into women’s health and nutrition.

With thanks to Julie 
 

Julie is a skilled community dietitian having worked in the industry for over 30 years.  Julie originally trained at Deakin University as a dietitian.  Julie has worked in a range of clinical settings including hospitals, community health, and for a large portion of her career in the aged care space as a dietitian and Dietitian Team leader.   Julie more recently joined MS Plus to recommence individual client consulting and is really enjoying the opportunity to support her clients living with MS.

You can read the episode transcript Here

More information:
Australian guidelines for healthy eating: https://www.eatforhealth.gov.au/guidelines/australian-guide-healthy-eating

MS Plus Diet & nutrition:https://www.msplus.org.au/support-services/allied-health-services/diet-and-nutrition

More podcasts and webinars on MS, diet & nutrition: https://www.msplus.org.au/resource-hub?topics=242621

Reach out for support:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this episode of the MS Boost, we sit down with Associate Professor Priya Sumithran, an endocrinologist and clinical researcher to discuss weight loss medications, with the most popular and commonly known, being semaglutide or known as the brand name Ozempic. 

Priya discusses the surprisingly long history of this medication, how it works and what considerations there are before starting this medication, especially for people with other chronic conditions or MS. 

Priya touches on the barriers to treating obesity, as well as the stigma around weight loss medications but also being obese, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to weight management.

With thanks to Associate Professor Priya Sumithran.

Associate Professor Priya Sumithran, MBBS (Hons), PhD, FRACP, is an endocrinologist and clinician researcher. She is Head of the Obesity and Metabolic Medicine Group in the Department of Surgery, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, and Clinical Lead for Obesity Medicine at Alfred Health (Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes).

A/Prof Sumithran completed a PhD at the University of Melbourne (Dept of Medicine, Austin) in 2012 and was a senior endocrinologist for 15 years in the obesity management service at Austin Health, including as Head of Obesity Medicine from 2021-2023.

A/Prof Sumithran has co-authored >80 peer-reviewed papers, including publications in the New England Journal of Medicine, Lancet, British Medical Journal, Annals of Internal Medicine, Obesity and the Medical Journal of Australia. She served on the council of the Australian and New Zealand Obesity Society from 2017 to 2022.

You can read the episode transcript here

Reach out for support:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

For support to manage your diet and nutrition, get in touch with an MS dietician to tailor a plan to your nutritional needs. 

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this episode of the MS Boost,  we speak with Michael Mortenson, a seasoned MS nurse and one of the few recipients of the MS Nurse Australasian Inc. Association's Lifetime Membership. Michael shares his journey into MS nursing, his experiences throughout his 15-year career, and the significant changes in the treatment landscape. Michael shares his insights as a MS Nurse based in Tasmania, the evolving approach to managing MS and the importance of having access to an MS Nurse.

With thanks to Michael.

To speak with an MS Nurse Advisor like Michael, call Plus Connect to book a free telephone appointment for registered clients. 

You can read the episode transcript here

Reach out for support:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

*Trigger warning*
This is a trigger warning. In today's episode, we're discussing two men's experience of diagnosis and the impact on their lives and mental health, and we briefly discuss suicidal ideation. If you are not in the right place to listen to this topic, please skip from 7 minutes to 8:40 minutes of the episode. Please take care of yourself, and if you are in need of any assistance, please reach out to the people around you, your GP, or supports such as Lifeline, by calling 13 11 14.

In this episode of the MS podcast series, in recognition of Men's Health Week, running from 10th to 16th June, David and Andrew share their personal experiences of being diagnosed with MS and its impact on their lives and mental health.

David and Andrew have a deeply personal conversation about their initial symptoms, the diagnostic process, and the mental and emotional challenges they faced. The discussion also covers the societal pressures that men still face regarding toughness and emotional openness, as well as the importance of support systems, both professional and personal. 

They highlight the importance of communication with healthcare professionals and the benefits of getting mental health support. David and Andrew both share their coping strategies and offer advice for other men living with MS, stressing the importance of self-care, listening to your body and seeing the GP, as well as reaching out for support.

With thanks to Andrew & David.

You can read the episode transcript Here

Reach out for support:
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or online at, www.lifeline.org.au, 
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or access free, confidential support online, www.beyondblue.org.au
MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78 or online at https://mensline.org.au/

Contact us:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this episode of The MS Boost, we interview Luke Mitchell, a Men's Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in sexual health to discuss erectile dysfunction (ED), its prevalence in the population, misconceptions and links with mental health. Luke provides insight and practical advice for managing ED discussing holistic treatment options, the importance of trusting your health care practitioner and broader health and relationship implications. 

With thanks to Luke Mitchell

Luke is a Men's Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in Sexual Health and Urology. He has a special interest in Men's sexual dysfunction, with an emphasis on holistic sexual rehabilitation following prostate cancer. Luke has previously conducted research into the impacts of body image on men's sexual behaviours. He is the current chair of the ANZUNS Sexual Health Special Interest Group, and is an active member of Healthy Male's Health Practitioner Advisory Board. He is currently working in private practice, and as a Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse in Melbourne. 

Further supports:
Luke is an advisor for Health Male, who is a trusted source of information and facilitator of action on men’s health. https://healthymale.org.au/

You can read the episode transcript here.

Reach out for support:
Contact MS Plus Connect for more information on 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

If you are a registered client, you can also make a free, confidential telephone appointment with an MS Nurse Advisor via MS Plus Connect. We have male and female MS Nurse Advisors.

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

In this episode of the MS Boost podcast series, we are joined by Fatima, a person living with multiple sclerosis (MS), who shares her personal journey to diagnosis. 

Like many other people living with MS, Fatima was constantly misdiagnosed while experiencing a myriad of symptoms. Fatima's story delves into the importance of persistence in seeking medical help, the emotional impact of receiving a diagnosis, and the gradual process of acceptance and adjustment as a person living with a new diagnosis. 

Fatima talks about how she built her village of support people, including the integration of physical and mental health supports to help her continue to live well with MS. 

Fatima talks about her fears and anxiety around her diagnosis, and how she continued to do all the things she wanted to in her life, having children, travelling and running her own business. 

Fatima's resilience and determination shine through as she navigates life with MS, and it’s inspiring to hear her journey and advice for other people who may have just been newly diagnosed.

With thanks to Fatima.

You can read the episode transcript here

Reach out for support:
MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional. 

“I do think it's being talked about more now, and I think it's really important for people to be seeing that there's no shame in having a trauma response to pain, and it's very treatable, trauma is very treatable. But the first step to treating it, of course, is to recognise like, ‘Oh, I think I'm having a traumatic response to my illness, my diagnosis etcetera.’ ”

In this episode of the MS Boost, psychotherapist Katie Willard Virant discusses the impact of a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and how it can be a source of trauma for some people . We discuss how the shock of receiving a chronic illness diagnosis can cause long-lasting trauma, affecting peoples’ perceptions of themselves and their interactions with the healthcare system. Katie emphasises the importance of recognizing these trauma responses, such as fear, dissociation, and anxiety, as legitimate and treatable conditions.

We also touch on the significance of healthcare professionals validating people' experiences, the role of social support and trust, and the potential for post-traumatic growth. Katie offers insights into therapy as a tool for processing trauma and strategies to help people who may feel stuck in the trauma of diagnosis.  

This episode provides a deep dive into the emotional complexities of receiving a diagnosis of a chronic condition, and tips to help you move forward.  

With thanks to Katie Willard Varant.

You can read the episode transcript here. 

For more support, reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 or online at, www.lifeline.org.au, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or access free, confidential support online, www.beyondblue.org.au

Reach out for support:

MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected]  

Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]

Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  

MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.