In this deeply informative and compassionate episode, menopause consultant Michelle Cotallessa takes us inside the often-misunderstood world of perimenopause and menopause care. If you’ve ever felt dismissed by your doctor, confused by your body, or overwhelmed by mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, or brain fog—you are not alone and you’re not imagining it.

Michelle shares exactly what happens during a menopause consultation, from comprehensive symptom tracking to emotional support, lifestyle assessments, and personalized treatment plans. We also bust some big myths—like why you don’t need hot flashes to be in perimenopause—and explain how rocking (yes, walking with a weighted vest) can boost heart and bone health for women in midlife.

💡 This episode is a must-listen for any woman in her 30s, 40s, or 50s navigating hormonal changes—or for anyone supporting one.

What we cover:

👉🏽What a full menopause consultation includes

👉🏽Why symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, and memory loss are often overlooked

👉🏽The emotional weight of feeling “crazy”—and the relief of finally being heard

👉🏽The link between menstrual history and mood disorders

👉🏽The surprising signs of menopause besides hot flashes

👉🏽Why perimenopausal women are quitting jobs and leaving relationships

👉🏽How rocking (weighted walking) helps combat heart disease and bone loss

👉🏽The importance of screening, contraception, and lifestyle during midlife

👉🏽Tips for healthcare professionals to better support women

This episode is brought to you by RUKSAK - helping you turn every walk into a workout with weighted vests, backpacks and accessories. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rebrand.ly/ruksak_spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠ and use the code “SHAUNA15” for 15% off all purchases.

Resources:

Book a menopause appointment with Dr Shauna (Central Coast and Newcastle).

https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/menopause/

For more resources from Dr Cotellessa:

Visit the Hera Menopause website or follower her on Instagram.

https://www.heramenopause.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/drmichellecotellessa/

Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:

Podcast Website: ⁠https://www.allaboutyoupod.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts

https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgp

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247

Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.

00:00:00 – What to Expect from a Menopause Consultation

00:00:11 – Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Consultation Process

00:01:03 – How the Menopause Symptom Score Chart Works

00:02:09 – What Happens in Your First Menopause Appointment

00:02:42 – Real Symptoms Women Experience During Perimenopause

00:05:27 – How Menopause Impacts Relationships, Work & Mental Health

00:06:43 – Understanding Menopause Symptoms Through Patient Education

00:08:59 – Common Misconceptions About Menopause & Hot Flashes

00:10:37 – Can You Still Get Pregnant in Perimenopause? Contraception Explained

00:11:33 – Why Family History Matters in Menopause Care

00:12:39 – The Role of Mental Health & Medical History in Treatment Plans

00:14:24 – How Menopause Affects Bone Density and Heart Health

00:15:07 – Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Menopausal Women

00:16:04 – Diet, Iron Deficiency & Nutritional Gaps in Midlife

00:16:54 – Why Exercise is Critical for Perimenopausal Women

00:17:54 – What is Weighted Vest Walking (Rucking) for Menopause?

00:18:33 – Health Benefits of Weighted Walking for Women Over 40

00:19:05 – How to Start Weighted Walking Safely (Beginner Tips)

00:19:31 – Discount Code for Rucksack: Gear Up for Your Health

00:19:59 – Medical Disclaimer and Final Thoughts