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  • Navigating Perimenopause: Your Journey, Your Power

    Navigating Perimenopause: Your Journey, Your Power
    2025/07/16
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, a space dedicated to real conversations about what matters most to women. Today, we’re talking about perimenopause—a major chapter in many women’s lives that comes with a host of questions and, too often, a sense of solitude. If you’re in your 30s, 40s, or early 50s and have noticed sudden changes in your cycles, your mood, or your energy levels, you’re not alone. Perimenopause is a natural, empowering transition, and it’s time we talk about it clearly and openly.

    So, what is perimenopause? This is the period leading up to menopause, when the ovaries gradually decrease hormone production. It can last anywhere from a few months to several years. According to the Mayo Clinic, women may see their periods become unpredictable, experience hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and shifts in mood. There isn’t a single test for perimenopause—your story, your symptoms, and your experience matter most. This is about your body’s journey and owning it with knowledge.

    To shed light on perimenopause and how we can best navigate it, I’m joined by Dr. Lisa Petlow, a specialist in women’s health. Dr. Petlow, thank you for being here.

    Dr. Petlow, what are the earliest and most overlooked signs of perimenopause that women should be aware of? How do you recommend women track or document changes so they can have informed discussions with their healthcare providers?

    Many listeners want clear guidance. What are the medical and nonmedical treatments that really make a difference for the most common symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, or mood swings? According to experts at the Mayo Clinic and WebMD, treatment isn’t about stopping perimenopause—it’s about relief. There’s systemic estrogen therapy, birth control pills, and newer medications like fezolinetant, which has been approved for intense hot flashes. For women who can’t use hormones, there are effective options like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and gabapentin. Simple things like good sleep, balanced nutrition, and movement are powerful too.

    Vaginal dryness and pain with sex are especially important, but often left undiscussed. Dr. Petlow, how can women bring these concerns up with their providers, and what treatments are safe and effective? It’s encouraging to know that estrogen creams or local treatments can make a significant difference, as recommended by Planned Parenthood and Mayo Clinic.

    Let’s talk about emotional wellness. Perimenopause can bring anxiety and depression. Dr. Petlow, what supports do you suggest—both therapeutic and community-driven?

    Every journey is unique. From our conversation, here’s what I want every woman to take away: you are not powerless in perimenopause. Knowledge is your right and support is available. Track your symptoms, speak up, and ask about all treatment options, both medical and lifestyle. Seek community; don’t isolate. The more we talk—and demand answers—the better care we all receive.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women's Health Podcast. If today’s conversation resonated, please subscribe and share with the women you love. Stay empowered, stay curious, and above all, know that you are not alone. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Navigating the Change: Your Perimenopause Toolkit

    Navigating the Change: Your Perimenopause Toolkit
    2025/07/14
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast. I’m your host, and today we’re jumping right into a topic that touches nearly every woman’s life—perimenopause. For many, this transition can feel like the start of an unknown journey, but my goal is to equip us all with knowledge, confidence, and the sense that we’re not alone.

    Perimenopause is the natural lead-up to menopause, usually beginning in your forties—though it can start earlier—and marked by changes in your menstrual cycle, hot flashes, sleep issues, mood swings, and more. According to Mayo Clinic, there’s no single sign or test that signals the start. It’s a gradual transition, and the experience is as unique as each of us.

    To help us navigate this chapter, I’m thrilled to bring on Dr. Maria Evans, a board-certified OB-GYN with over two decades of experience supporting women through all stages of life. Dr. Evans, thank you for joining us.

    Let’s get right to the heart of it. First, what exactly is perimenopause, and how does it differ from menopause? Can you talk us through some of the most common symptoms—especially those early signals that listeners might overlook?

    Next, we hear so much about hot flashes and night sweats, but perimenopause is also about changes in mood and cognition. What’s going on in our brains and bodies during this time, and why do some women experience anxiety or depression?

    Another big topic is treatment options. Mayo Clinic and Planned Parenthood both note that systemic estrogen therapy—pills, patches, gels—remains the most effective medical treatment for hot flashes and night sweats. But that’s not for everyone. Can you walk us through the pros and cons of hormone therapies, and who they’re best for?

    For listeners who prefer to avoid hormones, what non-hormonal therapies do you recommend? Dr. Evans, you’ve mentioned the value of SSRIs—antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors—for mood swings and even hot flashes. There’s also gabapentin and, as Right as Rain at UW Medicine reports, a new medication called fezolinetant, recently approved for hot flash relief by the FDA. How do these options compare, and what should listeners ask their doctors about before starting any of these therapies?

    We also know lifestyle changes matter. Good nutrition, regular movement, maintaining healthy sleep habits, and reducing caffeine can all help, though not every solution works for everyone. How can women build a personalized perimenopause toolkit that fits their symptoms and lifestyle?

    Finally, how do you recommend women advocate for themselves in healthcare settings, especially if they feel dismissed or misunderstood during this transition?

    Listeners, as we wrap up, here are a few key takeaways. Perimenopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, not a problem to be fixed but a transition to be navigated with information and support. You have options—from hormone therapies to non-hormonal medications and lifestyle adjustments. Don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare providers like Dr. Evans or organizations like Planned Parenthood to find support that meets your needs. Most importantly, your experience is valid, and you deserve care that centers your voice.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe so you won’t miss what’s coming next.

    This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Thriving in Perimenopause: Empowering Women with Science-Backed Strategies

    Thriving in Perimenopause: Empowering Women with Science-Backed Strategies
    2025/07/13
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where every episode is devoted to empowering you with real, actionable information to take control of your health. Today, we’re going to talk about a stage that affects every woman, but is often shrouded in myths and misinformation—perimenopause.

    Let’s get right into it. If you’re in your 30s, 40s, or even your early 50s, you might notice changes in your body—your periods might become unpredictable, your sleep patterns shift, energy dips, and mood swings can come out of nowhere. That’s perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause. It’s not just about hot flashes—it’s a major hormonal shift that impacts your whole life. A lot of what we know about women’s health has been filtered through research done largely on men, but as Dr. Stacy Sims, author of “Roar” and “Next Level,” says, women are not small men. Our experiences in perimenopause are uniquely ours, and understanding them is the first step toward empowerment.

    That’s why I’m thrilled to have Dr. Stacy Sims joining us. She’s a world-renowned expert in female physiology and has dedicated her career to smashing the myths that keep women stuck in outdated approaches to health. Dr. Sims, thank you so much for being here.

    Dr. Sims, let’s start with the basics: What exactly is perimenopause, and how does it typically show up for women?

    Many women feel lost or frustrated during this time. Why do you think so many of us struggle to get clear answers or effective support from our healthcare providers?

    How do hormone fluctuations during perimenopause impact both our physical and mental wellbeing? Can you walk us through some of the most misunderstood symptoms?

    Let’s talk about exercise and nutrition. You often say, “Women shouldn’t train like men.” What do you mean by that, especially during perimenopause? Are there specific approaches to movement and recovery that can help women feel stronger and more energized?

    Weight gain, brain fog, and changes to libido get a lot of attention. Which lifestyle shifts do you recommend to address these concerns in a way that supports, rather than fights, our bodies?

    What about emotional health? Perimenopause can be an emotional rollercoaster for many women. What’s your advice for supporting mental health during this transition—and how can friends and family be allies?

    As we close out, what’s the single most important thing you want women to know about this time in their lives?

    Listening to Dr. Sims, it’s clear that perimenopause is not something to just “get through.” It’s a powerful period of change that deserves attention, compassion, and evidence-based care tailored to women’s real experiences—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

    Our key takeaways today: Perimenopause is normal. Your symptoms are real. You deserve science-backed support, not dismissal or shame. Move your body in ways that feel strong, eat to support your changing metabolism, and trust your intuition. You’re not alone—this stage is part of the journey of becoming more yourself.

    Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast. If you found this helpful, subscribe and share with a woman you care about. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Science & Grace

    Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Science & Grace
    2025/07/12
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome back to the Women’s Health Podcast. I’m your host, and today we’re bringing light, energy, and science to a chapter every woman deserves to understand and own—perimenopause. For too long, this natural transition has been whispered about, misdiagnosed, or simply ignored. Not today. We are stepping into the conversation, together.

    Perimenopause. Let’s say it out loud. For many women, these years—typically beginning in the 40s but sometimes even earlier—bring confusing changes. You might notice irregular periods, mood shifts that don’t feel like your usual self, sleep that eludes you, newly persistent hot flashes, or even joint pain. According to Dr. Patil at UCLA Health, these symptoms aren’t just “in your head”—they’re the real, lived effects of hormonal shifts as estrogen and progesterone decrease. But what’s empowering is that there are many ways to manage these symptoms and safeguard your long-term health.

    Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Patil, a women’s health specialist, to help us cut through the myths and talk about real solutions, from hormone therapy to lifestyle changes. Dr. Patil, thank you for joining us.

    Let’s get right into what every listener wants to know: What are the sneaky and most overlooked symptoms of perimenopause? How can women tell the difference between regular stress or aging and the actual start of the perimenopausal transition?

    So many women have heard about hormone therapy, but worry about its risks. Can you explain how hormone therapy works, and who it might be best suited for? Are there women who should absolutely avoid hormone therapy, and if so, why?

    For those who might not want or can’t use hormones, what are the best non-hormonal options? I’ve heard about medications like fezolinetant for hot flashes—how do these work, and are there potential side effects to know about?

    Beyond medication, what can women do in their daily lives to ease symptoms? For example, Dr. Patil, you’ve emphasized the importance of diet, exercise, and sleep. Could you walk us through specific habits that truly make a difference during perimenopause—say, the types of exercise that help prevent bone loss or foods that protect heart health?

    Finally, what advice do you offer women who feel dismissed or misunderstood when they bring their symptoms to a healthcare provider? How can listeners advocate for themselves, and what questions should they always ask at their next checkup?

    Thank you, Dr. Patil, for your wisdom and for empowering us with knowledge. Listeners, as you heard, you are not alone—and you have tools and options to make perimenopause a positive, healthy transition. Whether it’s speaking up with your doctor, nurturing your body through movement, or simply prioritizing sleep, every step you take matters.

    Remember: your experience is valid, and with the right information, you can navigate this chapter with confidence. Thank you for tuning in to the Women’s Health Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe, and share this episode with the women in your life—because together, we rise. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Perimenopause Power: Navigating Change, Reclaiming You

    Perimenopause Power: Navigating Change, Reclaiming You
    2025/07/11
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, where we champion every woman’s right to knowledge, self-advocacy, and whole health. I’m your host, and today, we’re getting right to one of the most transformative—and sometimes misunderstood—chapters in a woman’s life: perimenopause.

    Perimenopause isn’t just about physical changes; it’s where empowerment begins. For many women, this journey starts in their late 30s or early 40s, signaling the body’s gradual transition toward menopause. You might notice irregular periods, hot flashes, mood changes, or sleep challenges. While these changes can be disorienting, let’s make one thing clear: you are not alone, and knowledge is your power. According to Every Mother and Dr. Haleema Sheikh from the Marion Gluck Clinic, being informed about these symptoms and the available treatments is the first step to regaining control over your well-being.

    To help us navigate this maze, I’ve invited Dr. Haleema Sheikh, a renowned hormone specialist, to join us. Dr. Sheikh, thank you for being here.

    Let’s dive in. First, what are the early signs of perimenopause that every woman should look out for? Are there symptoms that often get misunderstood or dismissed by healthcare providers? Many women report not feeling heard—how can we advocate for ourselves and ensure our symptoms are taken seriously? I’d also love for you to shed light on hormone therapies, like estrogen or progesterone, and what options are truly safe and effective. How do non-hormonal treatments and holistic therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, fit into the bigger picture? Beyond physical symptoms, perimenopause brings emotional changes—what’s your advice for managing mood swings or mental health during this time?

    Empowerment isn’t just about treatments; it’s about mindset and support. Dr. Sheikh, can you speak to the importance of education, community, and finding the right healthcare provider? For those navigating perimenopause and feeling overwhelmed, what practical steps can they take—right now—to feel more confident and in control?

    To our listeners, remember: perimenopause is a natural, normal transition—an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and deeper connection with your body. Whether you choose hormone therapy, holistic approaches, or lifestyle adjustments, the most important thing is to make informed choices that suit your unique needs and values. Keep track of your symptoms, ask questions, and don’t accept dismissal from healthcare providers. As Marion Gluck Clinic and Every Mother report, seeking out information and support—whether from trusted experts, support groups, or fellow women—can make all the difference in your journey.

    Thank you for tuning in to this empowering episode. If you found value here, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation that matters. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Grit and Grace

    Perimenopause Power-Up: Navigating the Change with Grit and Grace
    2025/07/09
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where we’re rewriting the narrative on what it means to thrive as a woman, at every stage. I’m your host, and today we’re shining a bold light on perimenopause—a life-changing transition that deserves open conversation and real answers. If you’re finding yourself navigating unpredictable periods, hot flashes, or just feeling out of sync with your body, you are not alone. Perimenopause is a journey millions of women take, yet it often gets pushed aside in mainstream discussions about health.

    Let’s get right to it. Perimenopause is the natural transition leading up to menopause, usually starting for women in their 40s but sometimes as early as the mid-30s. During this time, hormone levels shift, triggering a host of symptoms—irregular cycles, mood swings, night sweats, and challenges with sleep. Our bodies are strong, but this phase can test even the most resilient among us.

    To dive deeper, I’m joined today by Dr. Kirtly Jones, a women’s health expert from University of Utah Health, who will help us demystify this important life stage. Dr. Jones, welcome! First, can you tell us what exactly is happening hormonally during perimenopause? How do fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels impact not just our bodies, but also our emotional and mental health? Listeners want to know: are sudden mood shifts and brain fog normal, or cause for concern?

    Next, let’s get practical. Dr. Jones, what evidence-based treatments are available for managing symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness? Planned Parenthood advises that menopausal hormone therapy, or MHT, which replaces estrogen and progesterone, can be helpful for severe symptoms. But we know every woman’s journey is unique. In addition to hormonal therapy, can you walk us through non-hormonal options—like low-dose antidepressants or newer medicines like fezolinetant—that address hot flashes, and topical creams for vaginal health?

    Our community often asks, when should a woman consider seeking medical guidance during perimenopause, and what are some key questions she can ask her healthcare provider to advocate for herself? Are there lifestyle changes, like specific nutrition, exercise, or self-care routines, that truly make a difference in symptom relief?

    Before we wrap, let’s address the emotional toll. According to the Jean Hailes Foundation, societal expectations and gender norms can make women feel they should just “soldier on” and put themselves last. But perimenopause is the time to reject those outdated norms and champion self-prioritization. Dr. Jones, how do you encourage women to embrace this period as an opportunity for empowerment and self-discovery?

    Key takeaways for today: perimenopause is a normal, powerful part of the female experience, not something to fear or hide. There are a variety of effective treatments—both hormonal and non-hormonal—to help with symptoms. Most importantly, you have the right to demand individualized care, seek support, and rewrite your own story.

    Thank you, listeners, for tuning in and uplifting one another through knowledge. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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  • Perimenopause Power: Reclaiming Your Health, Your Voice, Your Journey

    Perimenopause Power: Reclaiming Your Health, Your Voice, Your Journey
    2025/07/07
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women's Health Podcast, where we empower women to take charge of their bodies, their choices, and their well-being. I’m your host, and today we’re going straight to a topic that’s often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and under-discussed: perimenopause—the transition that brings transformation, power, and sometimes a fair bit of uncertainty to millions of women.

    Perimenopause typically begins in a woman’s late 30s or early 40s and brings with it a range of symptoms—from hot flashes and night sweats to mood swings, brain fog, and irregular periods. According to the experts at The Harper Clinic and Every Mother, these hormonal fluctuations are as unique as the women who experience them. For some, it’s a gentle transition; for others, it’s more like a roller coaster. Yet, the biggest hurdle many women face isn’t just the symptoms, but the invisible walls thrown up by a healthcare system that often fails to listen.

    I recently spoke with Dr. Kirtly Jones of the University of Utah, who reminds us that women’s health is intricate, shaped by physical, emotional, and even social dimensions. So, how do we reclaim this conversation? How do we ensure no one is left unheard or sidelined?

    First, we have to ask the right questions—of ourselves and our healthcare providers. Here are some I recommend bringing into your next appointment or even journaling on your own:
    - What symptoms am I experiencing, and how do they affect my daily life?
    - Are there any patterns or triggers I’ve noticed?
    - What are the latest and most effective treatment options, including HRT, non-hormonal therapies, and holistic approaches like acupuncture or yoga?
    - How do these options align with my personal health history, values, and preferences?
    - Are my moods and cognitive changes being taken seriously, or are they being brushed off as ‘just stress?’

    Many women, as reported by Blooming Leaf Counseling, experience what’s called “medical gaslighting,” where symptoms are minimized or attributed to something else entirely. It’s vital to document your journey. Track your symptoms, stand firm in your advocacy, and remember—you have the right to be heard.

    When it comes to treatment, science tells us there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, has been hugely beneficial for some women, alleviating hot flashes, sleep problems, and more. But it’s not suitable for everyone and should be discussed carefully with a provider. There are also non-hormonal medications, lifestyle changes, and complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga that have shown promise in managing everything from anxiety to chronic pain.

    And let’s talk about empowerment. According to the team at LynLake and Every Mother, embracing this phase with education and community makes all the difference. Perimenopause isn’t the end of youth or vitality—it’s a powerful reawakening, a time to center your own needs and well-being.

    Here are the key takeaways:
    - Listen to your body, trust what it’s telling you, and advocate relentlessly for your health.
    - Stay informed about all options—HRT, non-hormonal meds, and holistic therapies.
    - Track your symptoms and arm yourself with information for every medical conversation.
    - Seek support from communities, friends, and experts who respect your experience.

    Thank you for joining us on the Women’s Health Podcast today. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai


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    3 分
  • Perimenopause Unfiltered: Real Talk, Real Empowerment

    Perimenopause Unfiltered: Real Talk, Real Empowerment
    2025/07/06
    This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast.

    Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where real talk meets real empowerment. I’m your host, and today we’re diving straight into a topic that impacts millions, yet is rarely discussed openly—perimenopause. That stretch of time before menopause, when hormones can feel like they’re throwing your body and mind a bit off-balance. It can start in your late 30s or early 40s and last for several years, but no two women experience it quite the same. So why does it feel like nobody’s talking about it?

    Let’s get to the heart of it. Perimenopause is more than hot flashes or the occasional sleepless night. For many, it’s a rollercoaster of mood swings, irregular periods, brain fog, and changes in sex drive—sometimes all at once. According to the Harper Clinic, these symptoms are driven by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, and recognizing them is the first step toward taking back control. Knowledge is your superpower, and it’s time to use it.

    But here’s what’s frustrating: Women are often dismissed, told it’s just stress or “all in your head.” Blooming Leaf Counseling points out that medical gaslighting is still far too common in women’s health. That’s why self-advocacy is crucial. Track your symptoms, document your questions, and don’t be afraid to push for answers. Remember, this is your health—you deserve to be heard.

    To guide us through what helps and what you can ask your provider, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Kirtly Jones, a leading women’s health expert at University of Utah Health and host of the 7 Domains of Women’s Health show. I asked her: What are the telltale signs of perimenopause that women should watch for? She emphasized that while hot flashes and night sweats are common, women should also pay attention to subtle changes—like brain fog, mood shifts, and changes in sexual health. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re valid medical symptoms.

    Another vital question: What are the latest recommendations for managing perimenopause symptoms? Dr. Jones explained that treatment is highly individual. Hormone Replacement Therapy, now sometimes called Menopausal Hormone Therapy, can be very effective for many women but isn’t right for everyone. There are also non-hormonal medications, lifestyle strategies, and holistic approaches that can make a huge difference.

    I also asked, How can women advocate for themselves when their symptoms are dismissed? Her advice: Come prepared. Bring a detailed symptom diary. Ask specific questions about the risks and benefits of treatment options. And don’t leave the office until you feel satisfied with the information provided—it’s your right.

    Let’s break down the key takeaways. Perimenopause is a normal and significant life stage that every woman deserves to navigate with dignity and support. Your symptoms are real, and you have every right to seek help. Learn what’s happening to your body, track your health, and work in partnership with your healthcare team. With the right information and the confidence to advocate for yourself, perimenopause can be not just survived—but embraced as a time of growth and empowerment.

    Thank you for joining me today on the Women’s Health Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with everyone who could use a little extra support on their wellness journey. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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