In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson interviews pharmacist Tara Thompson, discussing the intersection of women's sexual health and pharmacology. They explore the role of compounding in hormone therapy, the education gaps in pharmacy regarding hormones, and the influence of media on public perception of hormone replacement therapy.

The conversation also addresses the challenges women face in obtaining testosterone prescriptions, the implications of hazardous medication labels, and the nuances between generic and brand name medications. They delve into the efficacy of different forms of progesterone and the potential benefits of extended-release formulations. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Tara Thompson delve into the complexities of pharmacology, particularly focusing on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the various delivery methods available. They discuss the innovative approaches in different countries, the importance of understanding different dosage forms like troches and buccal delivery, and the pharmacokinetics involved in hormone absorption.

The conversation also highlights the interactions between hormones, particularly estrogen and thyroid management, and the benefits of injectable estrogen. They emphasize the need for personalized treatment options and the role of compounding pharmacies in providing tailored solutions for patients. The discussion concludes with a reminder that there are always options available for patients seeking hormonal therapies.

Takeaways

Things discussed:

ISSWSH.org

Study on HRT and Lupus

Sedona in October: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

My Website

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts 2025.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

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In episode 301 of the You're Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses 15 things she wishes would change in women's health, focusing on hormonal health, the healthcare system, sexual health, and education. She emphasizes the importance of choice regarding hormone therapy after breast cancer, the need for better sex education, and the challenges posed by the current healthcare system. Dr. Casperson also shares her aspirations for future clinics and the importance of addressing orgasmic inequality and healthcare costs.

Takeaways

Hormones after breast cancer should be a choice.

There is a need for FDA-approved female-dosed testosterone products.

Healthcare costs are a significant barrier to accessing care.

Sex education in the U.S. is inadequate and needs reform.

Orgasmic inequality is prevalent, particularly in heterosexual relationships.

Vaginal estrogen is safe and should not carry a cancer warning.

Healthcare providers need better work-life balance to prevent burnout.

Education is key to improving sexual health and understanding.

The healthcare system should prioritize patient care over profits.

Future clinics are needed to support women's health and hormonal optimization.

• [M] Factor Screening in Seattle Jan 29 that Kelly is hosting a Q&A for after the documentary https://hotpausehealth.com/the-m-factor-screening/

• So Hot Right Now in Sydney, March 1: https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/talks-and-ideas/so-hot-right-now

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

My Website

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts 2025.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EPISODE THREE HUNDRED Y'ALL!!!

In this episode of the You're Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson celebrates the milestone of 300 episodes by sharing key insights on women's health, including the importance of vaginal estrogen, testosterone, and the realities of menopause. She emphasizes the need for longer patient visits and the significance of understanding the nuances of healthcare. Additionally, she discusses upcoming events and retreats focused on women's health education.

Takeaways

Vaginal estrogen is safe and effective for postmenopausal women.

Testosterone is present in both men and women, and is crucial for health.

Short medical visits hinder effective healthcare delivery.

Menopause is a natural process, and suffering through it is not necessary.

Alcohol consumption is linked to several types of cancer.

Osteoporosis can be improved with the right interventions.

Estrogen does not inherently cause cancer; it can support health.

Regular exercise is essential for overall health and well-being.

Understanding the difference between correlation and causation is vital in healthcare.

The myth of 'use it or lose it' regarding vaginal health is misleading.

• [M] Factor Screening in Seattle Jan 29 that Kelly is hosting a Q&A for after the documentary https://hotpausehealth.com/the-m-factor-screening/

• So Hot Right Now in Sydney, March 1: https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/talks-and-ideas/so-hot-right-now

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

My Website

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts 2025.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Katie Kennedy, a pathologist, discusses the intersection of aging, health, and the effects of alcohol on the body. The conversation explores how alcohol impacts various organs, particularly the liver and brain, and its connection to inflammation and cancer. The role of estrogen in women's health and the implications of aging on inflammation are also examined, providing insights into how these factors affect quality of life. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Katie Kennedy discuss various aspects of women's health, particularly focusing on postmenopausal issues such as bladder health, the importance of vaginal estrogen, and the role of pathology in understanding these conditions. They delve into the significance of bone health and osteoporosis, emphasizing the need for preventative measures against hip fractures and frailty. The discussion also highlights the connection between breathing, oral health, and overall well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health that considers the entire body.

Takeaways

Pathology is the study of diseases and their effects on tissues.

Alcohol has a significant impact on liver health, leading to conditions like fatty liver disease.

Fatty liver disease can be reversed if caught early and with proper support.

Alcohol is classified as a carcinogen, contributing to various cancers.

Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to memory loss and increase the risk of dementia.

The loss of estrogen during aging creates a synergistic effect with alcohol on brain health.

Inflammation is a common response in aging and is linked to estrogen loss.

Women metabolize alcohol differently than men, making them more susceptible to its effects.

Inflammation can be observed in various tissues, not just localized areas.

Understanding the impact of alcohol on health is crucial for making informed choices. Postmenopausal women often suffer from bladder issues that are under-discussed.

Vaginal estrogen should be a standard part of women's health care.

Thin vaginal mucosa can lead to increased infections and complications.

Preventative measures for osteoporosis should start early in life.

Hip fractures are a significant health risk for older women.

Mouth breathing can lead to various health issues, including sleep apnea.

Strengthening the tongue is crucial for preventing aspiration and improving swallowing.

Holistic health considers the entire body and its interconnected systems.

Education and awareness are key to improving women's health outcomes.

Regular health evaluations should include assessments of bone and muscle strength.

Dr. Kennedy's Website

Dr. Kennedy's IG

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts February 2025.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Midlife hair loss! way more common than you think!!

In this conversation, Dr. Omer Ibrahim discusses the complexities of hair loss, particularly in women, and the importance of understanding its causes and treatments. He emphasizes the significance of hair in women's identity and the emotional impact of hair loss. The discussion covers various aspects, including preventative measures, nutrition, the role of supplements, innovative treatments like PRP and exosomes, and the need for more research on the effects of hormones on hair health. The conversation also touches on the terminology used in the field and the stigma surrounding female hair loss.

They explore the significance of understanding androgenetic alopecia, the impact of testosterone, and the importance of monitoring hormone levels. The discussion also covers the effectiveness of minoxidil and the use of DHT blockers like spironolactone and finasteride. They highlight the frequent misdiagnosis of hair loss conditions in women and emphasize the need for specialized dermatological care.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrating Five Years of the 'You Are Not Broken' Podcast

Happy New Year! This week, as we step into 2024, I’m reflecting on the incredible journey of the podcast and the amazing guests who’ve joined me along the way. Five years ago, on January 1, 2020, I launched the very first episode of You Are Not Broken. At the time, Instagram wasn’t even part of the equation for me and now I just hit 200K, I hadn’t published a book, hadn’t done a TEDX talk and the term "menopause expert" wasn’t something that I was. Looking back, I can confidently say: that first episode was pretty good!

Thank you to all of the sponsors, prescribers, everyone who supports ISSWSH and treats women for sexual health issues. I just did a course about sexual health and prescribing testosterone with Dr. Heather Hirsch’s academy.

In honor of this milestone, let’s revisit some of the highlights and wisdom shared by the brilliant minds who’ve graced the podcast.

1.My very first episode - short, sweet and mission driven, this is how it all started.

2. Dr. Mary Claire Haver – April 2023 episode 208

Long before “the new menopause” and the buzz around medications like Ozempic, Dr. Haver was here dropping timeless advice.

3. Dr. Sari Van Anders and the Science of Desire – march 2022 – Epiosde 147

Dr. Van Anders insights reshaped how we think about desire. Her research challenged the heteronormative theory of low desire in women partnered with men, emphasizing that desire is far more complex than we often assume. She explained how sexual thoughts and behaviors can influence our hormones, showing that thinking sexy thoughts can actually increase testosterone levels. This idea—that our minds and bodies are deeply connected—has inspired so many listeners to explore what turns them on and why.

4. Dr. Avrum Bluming and the Hormone Window – Epiosde 222 July 2023

Dr. Bluming joined me to discuss the "10-year window" and the incredible "window of opportunity" when it comes to hormone therapy. We now know that the main risk associated with oral estrogen is clotting in veins, which is why transdermal (TD) estrogen is the preferred option. He reminded us of the critical role hormones play in bone health, as hip fractures kill as many people each year as breast cancer.

5. The Lancet Rebuttal: Are We Overtreating Menopause? – April 2024, #259

This powerful panel discussion featured Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan, Dr. Heather Quaile, Dr. Heidi Flagg, and Dr. Mary Claire Haver. Together, we explored whether menopause is being overtreated in 2024. Spoiler: the answer is no.

6. Dr. Marty Klein and the Complexities of Fantasy episode 169 – July 2022

Dr. Klein’s book, His Porn, Her Pain, sparked a fascinating conversation about the nature of fantasy. His insights challenged us to think deeply about what fantasy means for us as individuals and how it shapes our relationships.

As we celebrate five years, I want to thank everyone who listens, shares, and prescribes for women. Your support fuels this mission to empower and educate. Here’s to another year of breaking myths, sharing stories, and embracing the science of living our best lives.

Happy New Year,

Dr. Kelly Casperson

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson interviews Dr. Carol Tavris, a renowned social psychologist and feminist. They discuss the evolving definition of feminism, the impact of cognitive dissonance on women's health, and the collaboration between Dr. Tavris and Dr. Avrum Blooming on hormone therapy.

The conversation highlights the importance of staying curious, the role of fear in controlling women, and the challenges women face in navigating medical information. Dr. Tavris emphasizes the need for women to advocate for their health and to question outdated medical warnings. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Carol Tavris discuss the complexities surrounding hormone therapy, particularly estrogen, and the societal and medical biases that influence women's health. They explore the implications of labeling estrogen as hazardous, the challenges of mobilizing women for advocacy, and the cognitive biases that affect perceptions of hormone therapy. The discussion emphasizes the need for informed activism, understanding causation versus correlation, and the evolution of medical beliefs over time. Dr. Tavris offers insights on how to engage effectively with both the medical community and the public to foster change in women's health policies.

Takeaways

Dr. Tavris' Books:

Estrogen Matters

Mistakes Were Made (but not by me)

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private

facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,

hormones and life support!

www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson addresses a series of questions related to intimacy, sexual health, and relationships in midlife and menopause. She emphasizes the importance of sexual education, communication, and understanding one's body to enhance intimacy and sexual satisfaction. The conversation covers various topics including sexual health tips, overcoming shame, the role of hormones, and the significance of pleasure in sexual experiences. Dr. Casperson also highlights the need for professional help when dealing with sexual dysfunction and encourages listeners to prioritize their sexual health and well-being.

Takeaways

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private

facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,

hormones and life support!

www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Kelly Casperson discusses the complexities of perimenopause and its associated symptoms, particularly focusing on incontinence and the role of hormone therapy. She emphasizes the importance of vaginal estrogen as a treatment option, debunks common myths surrounding hormone therapy, and highlights the need for early intervention to prevent long-term health issues. The discussion also covers alternative treatments, the connection between hormones and pelvic floor health, and the risks and benefits of hormone therapy, ultimately advocating for patient empowerment and informed decision-making in women's health.

Takeaways

Vaginal estrogen is a safe and effective treatment for urinary issues during perimenopause.

Hormones play a crucial role in preventing diseases associated with aging.

Many women experience urinary symptoms during perimenopause, which can be alleviated with proper hormone therapy.

There is a misconception that hormone therapy is only for post-menopausal women; it can be beneficial during perimenopause as well.

Vaginal estrogen can significantly reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

Patients should advocate for their health and seek second opinions if necessary.

Hormone therapy can improve quality of life and reduce symptoms of menopause.

Education about hormone therapy is essential for both patients and healthcare providers.

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a valuable resource for managing incontinence.

The medical community needs to shift towards preventative care rather than reactive treatment.

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private

facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,

hormones and life support!

www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

293. T is a Brain Hormone - Treating the Couple for Low T and Sexual Health

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson explore various aspects of sexual health, focusing on the importance of language, the journey into understanding female sexual health, and the complexities of erectile dysfunction and libido in men. They emphasize the need to treat couples as a sexual unit and discuss the role of testosterone in overall health. In this conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson delve into the complexities of testosterone therapy, its historical context, and the stigma surrounding hormone replacement. They discuss the importance of hormones in aging and mental health, the need for responsible hormone management, and the innovations in sexual health products.

The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of rebranding hormones and addressing misconceptions to improve patient care and access. In this conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson delve into various aspects of sexual health, focusing on male sexual response, the effects of medications on sexual function, and innovative procedures for penile enhancement. They discuss the psychological factors influencing men's desire for enhancement, the importance of understanding the male sexual response, and the implications of medications like statins and finasteride on libido and testosterone levels.

Takeaways

https://testosteroneproject.com/

https://joshuagonzalezmd.com/

https://www.shoppopstar.com/

For more education about low T and getting started on possible therapy, visit Kyzatrex

Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.

Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.

https://www.joinmidi.com

Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment.

See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi

To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5.

Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"

Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed

Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:

Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private

facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health,

hormones and life support!

www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership

Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices