In this episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma dive deep into the evolving landscape of women’s health. They open up about the challenges of balancing mental health, the nuances of evidence-based medicine, and the critical importance of rebuilding patient trust in a post-COVID world.

Radhika leads a powerful conversation on menopause, emphasizing why it’s not just about age but about understanding the full patient experience — including trauma, psychosocial needs, and communication with partners. They unpack the newest guidelines on genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), explore treatment options like vaginal estrogen, SERMs, DHEA, and pelvic floor therapy, and share why shared decision-making is the key to empowering patients.

From tackling social media myths to highlighting the value of validated tools and annual visits, this episode blends science, compassion, and honest discussion to help providers and patients alike navigate the real-life challenges of modern healthcare.

Guidelines

https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause

Vulvovaginal Symptoms Questionnaire (VSQ)

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Vulvovaginal_Symptoms_Questionnaire_(VSQ)

In this episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma open up about their unconventional path to becoming physicians, sharing the real story behind attending a Caribbean medical school. They break down eye-opening medical school admissions statistics, talk through the tough decisions that led them offshore, and reflect on the challenges they faced—including family reactions, cultural adaptation, and the grind of clinical rotations.

What makes this episode especially unique is how vulnerable and open the cohosts are—you’ll get an up-close look at the personal stories, doubts, and triumphs that shaped them both as doctors and as people. Scott and Radhika explore how these experiences strengthened their determination, sharpened their adaptability, and deepened their passion for patient care. They also discuss the importance of lifelong learning, the unexpected advantages of a nontraditional route, and the lessons they’d share with anyone navigating the journey to medicine today. Whether you’re a pre-med, a current student, or just someone fascinated by the making of a doctor, this episode delivers honesty, humor, and hard-earned insight from two physicians who learned to thrive on the less traveled road.

In this essential episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Radhika Sharma and Dr. Scott Curtis take on a topic that’s often under-discussed but deeply impactful: Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP). Affecting up to 50% of women over their lifetime, POP can lead to discomfort, pressure, and urinary changes — but too many suffer in silence.

The docs break down the most common symptoms, how to get a proper diagnosis, and what treatment options exist — from conservative management like pelvic floor therapy and pessaries to surgical procedures like sacrocolpopexy and uterosacral ligament suspension.

They also explore the real talk around recovery: what increases surgical success, how to prevent recurrence, and why post-op care and pelvic floor rehab are game-changers for long-term results.

If you’ve ever wondered what that “heaviness” feeling is or why no one warned you about pelvic floor changes after kids or menopause — this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse affects nearly 1 in 2 women at some point.

• Symptoms include vaginal pressure, bulging, incontinence, and more.

• Pessaries offer a non-surgical way to manage and support prolapse.

• Pelvic floor PT improves symptoms, prevents worsening, and boosts recovery after surgery.

• Surgical options like sacrocolpopexy have high success rates — but they’re not one-size-fits-all.

• Post-operative recovery, vaginal estrogen, and smart lifestyle habits are crucial to preventing recurrence.

• You are not alone — and you deserve to feel strong and supported.

Resources Mentioned:

• AUGS (American Urogynecologic Society): www.augs.org

• Pelvic floor PT locator: www.pelvicrehab.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Double Scrub Podcast 08:15 Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse 10:23 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Prolapse 23:20 Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse 27:59 Understanding Pessaries and Their Role in Treatment 32:29 The Importance of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy 36:34 Surgical Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse 46:01 Innovative Surgical Techniques and Their Benefits 48:23 Recurrence Rates and Post-Surgery Considerations 57:57 dive-in-abbynoise-main-version-33798-02-15.mp3 58:07 Engagement with the Audience

In this episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma welcome spring with a conversation about renewal, reflection, and letting go—both literally and emotionally. From cleaning out closets to decluttering mental space, they share how the season invites us to reprioritize what really matters: family, mental well-being, and meaningful work.

The episode also explores the often invisible load women carry in leadership—how saying yes to tasks that don’t move the needle can hold them back from real advancement. Radhika gets real about the subtle (and not-so-subtle) dynamics at play in professional settings, especially for women in medicine.

Then, the conversation shifts gears into something every parent can relate to—kids' dental health. Scott and Radhika dig into the fluoride debate: its benefits, its risks, and what parents should know when it comes to community water, dental hygiene, and long-term health.

Whether you're in spring cleaning mode or just looking for a reset, this episode brings practical insight, personal stories, and a few laughs along the way.

Alberta Fluoride Study

https://adanews.ada.org/ada-news/2021/august/community-water-fluoridation-prevents-caries/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CI%20hope%20this%20is%20sufficiently,visit%20ADA.org/fluoride%20.

Harvard Business Review Articles

https://hbr.org/2010/09/why-men-still-get-more-promotions-than-women

https://gap.hks.harvard.edu/breaking-glass-ceiling-%E2%80%9Cno%E2%80%9D-gender-differences-declining-requests-non%E2%80%90promotable-tasks

• Spring is the perfect time to re-evaluate your priorities—mentally, emotionally, and physically.

• Letting go of tasks that don’t serve your values or goals is powerful.

• Saying no doesn’t make you less committed; it makes you more aligned.

• Leadership can look different for women—and that’s worth discussing.

• The fluoride conversation is more nuanced than you think.

• Kids' dental care needs special attention—and it can impact long-term health.

• Connection, communication, and community matter—at home and at work.

In this solo episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Radhika Sharma dives into hair growth and hair loss, particularly postpartum and menopausal hair changes. Learn about the science behind hair health, what causes hair thinning, and the truth behind popular hair myths and treatments.

Top Takeaways:

• Hair growth cycles (anagen, catagen, telogen) explained simply.

• Postpartum hair shedding typically starts 2-4 months after birth and resolves within a year.

• Menopause can trigger hormonal hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).

• FDA-approved hair loss treatments like Rogaine (Minoxidil) explained.

• Supplements can help—but mainly if you have specific vitamin deficiencies.

• Stress is a major contributor to hair loss (telogen effluvium).

• Common hair loss types (traction alopecia, alopecia areata) and how to prevent them.

Listen now to separate hair fact from fiction and better understand your body's changes.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

In this empowering episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma dive deep into the often-misunderstood world of menopause and perimenopause. Celebrating Women's History Month, they shed light on the misconceptions surrounding this significant transition, emphasizing that menopause is much more than just aging. Through insightful discussion, they explore the early onset of perimenopause symptoms, the evolution and safety of hormone replacement therapy, and the importance of open, informed conversations with healthcare providers.

Packed with practical advice, this episode highlights why women should never suffer in silence, debunks harmful myths, and underscores the importance of advocating for your own health. From managing symptoms effectively with treatments like vaginal estrogen to maintaining a vibrant sexual life beyond menopause, listeners are encouraged to embrace education, communication, and empowerment during the menopausal transition.

Takeaways:

• Menopause isn't just aging—it's a unique, manageable life phase.

• Perimenopause can begin as early as the late 30s.

• Hormone replacement therapy has significantly evolved, becoming a safe choice for many.

• Clear communication with healthcare providers is vital.

• Vaginal estrogen can safely ease discomfort without raising cancer risk.

• A healthy sex life can continue beyond menopause.

• Debunking myths prevents unnecessary suffering and stigma.

• Seeking second opinions ensures comprehensive care.

​Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions around sensitive topics that some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised.​

In Episode 5, we have a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about some of the difficult moments healthcare professionals experience. We openly discuss how medical providers manage tough decisions, handle their own emotional responses, and maintain empathy while fulfilling their professional roles. This episode offers a gentle look into the human side of medicine, sharing insights and personal strategies for building resilience and compassion during challenging times.​

Statistics:

• Umbilical Cord Prolapse: This rare obstetrical emergency occurs in approximately 0.1% to 0.6% of all births. ​
• Stillbirth in the United States: Approximately 1 in 175 births result in stillbirth, equating to about 21,000 stillbirths annually. ​CDC

Star Legacy Foundation: Provides education, support, and research for stillbirth and neonatal death. ​

Postpartum Support International: Offers resources and support for families dealing with pregnancy loss and postpartum mental health challenges.

In this episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma share personal stories about family, loss, and their recent experiences in real estate investments. They explore the evolving techniques of hysterectomy, underscoring the critical role of patient-physician communication and shared decision-making in healthcare. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the significance of community engagement and highlights the joyful and humorous moments that arise within a supportive network.

This podcast episode is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for any medical decisions or concerns.

In this episode of The Double Scrub, Dr. Scott Curtis and Dr. Radhika Sharma discuss the challenges of balancing their demanding medical careers with parenthood. They share personal experiences, insights on communication, and strategies for managing working parent guilt. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation, understanding, and grace in navigating the complexities of family life while maintaining professional commitments. They also touch on the significance of staying connected with each other and their children during busy periods, and the value of seeking help when needed.