Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones – Details, episodes & analysis

Ever find yourself saying “Honey, I have a headache”' more often than you'd like? You’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Rahman reveals the hidden reasons behind persistent low libido and offers practical solutions to help break the cycle and reignite intimacy.

Dr. Rahman dives deep into hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), the most common form of female sexual dysfunction, affecting up to 40% or more of women. This episode is packed with valuable insights, from the biological intricacies of libido to the innovative treatments available today.

Dr. Rahman’s thorough exploration of HSDD helps listeners understand the vast influence of factors like brain neurotransmitters, hormonal imbalances, and socioeconomic conditions on women’s sexual health. She emphasizes that understanding these elements is key to effective treatment and overall quality of life.

Dr. Rahman's episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with low libido or in search of a better understanding of women's sexual health. This episode is packed with actionable information, making it clear that acknowledging and addressing sexual dysfunction is essential for living a fulfilled life.

Highlights:

• Understanding HSDD: Discover how HSDD impacts women and why addressing it is crucial. From fluctuating libido to distressing low sexual desire, Dr. Rahman explains it all.
• Biopsychosocial Approach: Learn how Dr. Rahman assesses HSDD through a comprehensive lens, looking at biological, psychological, and social factors.
• Groundbreaking Treatments: Get familiar with innovative treatments like Flibanserin (Addyi), Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), and the off-label use of testosterone. Dr. Rahman shares her clinical experiences and patient outcomes with these medications.
• Impact of Mental Health: Understand the significant role of mental health in sexual function. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, or the side effects of medications like SSRIs, Dr. Rahman elaborates on how these factors interplay with HSDD.
• The Role of Self-Care: Dr. Rahman underscores the importance of self-care beyond the physical, emphasizing the need for mental and emotional well-being.

Remember, no one can advocate for your health better than you can. Dr. Rahman’s mission is to empower you with information so you can make informed decisions about your health.

Who else should we feature on Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs, and Hormones? Tune in, like, share, and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help more listeners discover this invaluable resource

Get in Touch with Dr. Rahman:

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Do you ever wish there were more open conversations about the complexities of sexual and pelvic pain? On our latest episode we dives deep into these crucial topics with our amazing guest, Dr. Sonia Bahlani!

Join us as we explore these critical issues that affect countless women and discuss the path to better understanding and treatment.

We discuss the often misunderstood and stigmatized conditions of vaginismus and interstitial cystitis (IC), shedding light on the interplay between cultural influences, psychological factors, and the critical importance of specialized care.

Highlights:

• Personal and Professional Journeys: Learn about Dr. Bahlani's unique career path, including her transition from general gynecology to specializing in pelvic pain, and her dedication to comprehensive patient care.
• Cultural and Psychological Insights: Dr. Bahlani delves into how cultural stigmatization, especially in South Asian communities, contributes to conditions like vaginismus. These cultural influences often prevent women from seeking the treatment they need.
• Beyond Physical Pain: We both emphasize that the absence of pain is not equivalent to experiencing pleasure and discuss the comprehensive treatments required for conditions such as vaginismus and IC, extending beyond just physical pain.
• The Spectrum of Pelvic Pain: Discover the complexities of IC, also known as painful bladder syndrome. Dr. Bahlani explains how IC is a spectrum condition with varying treatment approaches for different types of lesions, including both topical steroids and oral medications.
• The Role of Diet: We dive into the nuanced role of diet in managing IC and the conflicting data surrounding its effectiveness. Learn about how only a small percentage of patients are diet sensitive.
• Patient Empowerment:  We stress the importance of patient education and self-advocacy, encouraging listeners to be proactive in seeking specialized care and understanding their bodies.
• Navigating Online Resources: The conversation touches upon the dual-edged sword of using online resources and social media for medical information. Both doctors caution against the potential stress and misinformation that can arise.
• Healthcare System Challenges: The challenges of providing adequate care within a healthcare system constrained by high patient volumes and insurance limitations are addressed, highlighting the need for better specialized training in sexual health.

Who else would you like us to interview? This podcast exists so you can be better educated and advocate for yourself. Please share, subscribe, and give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!

Guest Bio:

Dr. Bahlani graduated magna cum laude with an undergraduate degree and then went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine degree from the Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine in Richmond, VA. She completed her residency in OB/GYN at New York Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center. After her residency, Dr. Bahlani joined the Smith Institute following a fellowship in urology under the mentorship of Dr. Robert Moldwin, a leader and innovator in the field of pelvic pain.

As the 2014 recipient of the Marinoff Career Development Award from the National Vulvodynia Association, Dr. Bahlani has been able to continue her clinical and research interests in the treatment of vulvodynia and sexual pain.

She’s been invited to present her research at multiple conferences, including the

Do you ever wish that your hormonal health and menopause journey were clearer and better understood?

On today’s episode, join me in welcoming Dr. James Simon as we dive deep into the impacts of hormone therapy on cardiovascular health, bone health, and overall well-being during menopause. 

This conversation sheds light on pivotal findings from the Women’s Health Initiative, which revealed that early use of estrogen or hormone therapy close to menopause significantly benefits cardiovascular health. 

Dr. Simon shares compelling patient cases where hormone therapy decisions were guided by coronary artery calcium scores, lipid profiles, and cardiovascular risk factors. I explore the potential of estradiol for easing perimenopausal symptoms and brings up ongoing studies, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practice.

We discuss the emerging molecule, estetrol, a naturally occurring fetal estrogen. This hormone is showing promising results in not just birth control but also in vaginal estrogen products and treatments for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Estetrol’s benefits on bones, blood vessels, and heart health make it a potential game-changer for menopausal therapy.

We also touch on the broader problem of cookie-cutter medicine and the importance of individualized treatment plans. Dr. Simon dispels the myth around hormone therapy and breast cancer risk, citing the Women's Health Initiative's findings. 

I also talk about the need for tailored treatment, especially given the high prevalence of heart disease and diabetes in specific populations, such as the South Asian community. 

Highlights:

Cardioprotective Benefits: Early hormone therapy near menopause can offer cardiovascular benefits. Delaying it may increase risks.

Breast Cancer Survivors: Shared decision-making in hormone therapy post-treatment shows emerging evidence of safety after a period.

Brain Health: Hormones might help reduce or prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia by affecting brain energy metabolism.

Testosterone Therapy: Dr. Simon advocates for the benefits and safety of testosterone therapy in menopausal women, although an FDA-approved product is still awaited.

Patient Advocacy: Dr. Simon provides tips on advocating for yourself in healthcare, finding menopause experts, and staying informed.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple! Who else would you like us to interview? This podcast exists to ensure you are educated and can advocate for yourself. 

Join us, stay informed, and continue the journey of health advocacy and empowerment with Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs and Hormones.

About our Guest:

Dr. James A. Simon is Clinical Professor of Ob/Gyn at George Washington University in Washington DC. A board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, reproductive endocrinologist, and AASECT-Certified Sexuality Counsellor, Dr. Simon’s private medical practice, IntimMedicine Specialists® (www.IntimMedicine.com), focuses on complicated gynecology,reproductive endocrinology, menopause, and sexual health. 

Dr. Simon’s extensive and pioneering experience utilizing both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies for menopausal symptoms and sexual problems (i.e., reduced sexual desire/blunted arousal, and weak or absent orgasm, pelvic and sexual pain) have resulted in his receiving numerous awards.

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Simon is an experienced clinical researcher having completed more than 400 clinical research trials, while receiving grants, contracts, and scholarships from a wide range of sponsors, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), The American Heart Association (AHA), The Heinz Foundation, and the pharmaceuticalindustry. 

Dr. Simon was Sprout Pharmaceuticals’ Chief...

Parents, have you heard about teens engaging in rough sex practices like choking? Are you concerned about the potential long-term effects on their well-being?

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Debby Herbenick, a Provost Professor. We dive headfirst into the complex dynamics of this controversial topic. From the reasons people find it compelling to the deeply important aspect of consent, we've got it all covered.

Today's discussion doesn't just skim the surface. Dr. Herbenick shares her extensive research on the diversity of reasons behind why individuals engage in choking, be it an interest in the kink and BDSM communities or influences from mainstream culture. 

But here's the catch—consent is paramount, and many people skip this crucial step. We'll explore the risks, the lack of clear communication, and how this can lead to potential misunderstandings and dangers.

As always, education is empowerment. We stress the importance of educating patients and the general public about the risks and necessity of consent in sexual practices.

Highlights:

1. Diversity of Reasons: Dr. Debby Herbenick dives deep into the various reasons people engage in choking during sex, from kink and BDSM interests to mainstream cultural influences.
2. Consent is Critical: Discover the alarming gaps in discussions about consent, the intensity, type, and duration of choking, and the risks these pose.
3. Impact of Technology: Examine how technology and social media have reshaped the way we form relationships and communicate, affecting both consent and reactions.
4. Educational Outreach: I underscore the significance of parenting and professional guidance in addressing sexual health topics with tweens and teens.
5. Research Insights: Learn about recent findings showing the potential cumulative impacts of choking during sex on brain function and health.
6. Parental Guidance: Tips for parents on communicating effectively with their children about the legal and ethical implications of sharing nude images.

Ready to dive deeper into these crucial topics? Hit subscribe and follow our podcast for more insights and expert discussions. Let's stay smart and informed about our sexual health together!

Remember, this podcast exists to educate and empower you to advocate for your own sexual health. Please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple!

We encourage you to stay informed and advocate for your sexual well-being. You can always learn more by visiting our website and following us on social media.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Debby Herbenick is a Provost Professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, and an AASECT-certified sexuality educator. Her new book is “Yes Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Today’s Teens and Sex.” 

Dr. Herbenick’s research focuses on women’s sexual health, US population-representative research, as well as trends in sexual attitudes and behaviors. She has published more than 200 peer-reviewed scientific articles related to sexual and reproductive health and serves as Principal Investigator of the award-winning National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, which has been ongoing since 2009. 

Dr. Herbenick’s research, books, and expertise have been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, Vogue, Tyra Banks Show, Discovery Health, and in thousands of others media.

Connect with Dr.Debby Herbenick:

Website 

Center for Sexual Health Promotion 

Instagram

Curious about how your reproductive health and fertility options work?

On today's episode, we dive into these important issues with the amazing Dr. Roohi Jeelani, a double-board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist who specializes in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

Dr. Jeelani is passionate about starting more open conversations about fertility and reproductive health, especially in the South Asian community. She not only shares medical advice but also talks about the social, cultural, and political factors that affect reproductive rights. Together, we explore the complexities of fertility care, the impact of legislation on treatments, and the importance of supporting policies and candidates that protect reproductive rights.

Highlights:

1. Navigating Legal Challenges: Dr. Jeelani explains how laws impact fertility treatments and abortion rights and why it's crucial to support policies that protect these healthcare services.
2. The Journey of Fertility: Learn about the transition from general gynecology to specializing in fertility, and when you should consider seeking fertility treatment based on age and fertility status.
3. Fertility Myths Debunked: Find out why home fertility tests might not be as reliable as they seem, and the importance of clinical tests for effective treatment plans.
4. Managing PCOS: Dr. Jeelani shares tips on lifestyle changes, diet, and supplements to boost fertility in PCOS patients. She also discusses medication options like Metformin and GLP-1 agonists.
5. The Real Deal on Egg Freezing: Understand the egg freezing process, what to expect, and why it's like an insurance plan for future fertility. Dr. Jeelani provides statistics on success rates based on age and the number of eggs retrieved.
6. Personal Advocacy in Healthcare: Dr. Jeelani emphasizes the importance of knowing your body, asking the right questions, and seeking second opinions. She highlights the need for a supportive and comfortable healthcare setting for effective treatment.

Remember, you don't have to walk this journey alone. Being informed, asking questions, and standing up for your reproductive health are key steps.

Who do you want to hear from next? Our podcast is here to educate so you can and advocate for yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, subscribe, and share with your friends!

Guest Bio:

Roohi Jeelani, MD, FACOG, is a double board certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist (REI). A graduate of Ross University School of Medicine, she completed both her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Wayne State University – Detroit Medical Center. During her medical training, Dr. Jeelani received numerous awards in the areas of fetal medicine and reproductive medicine. In addition, she has authored a variety of publications and book chapters in well known journals highlighting cutting-edge REI advancement and has presented at national/international conferences and symposiums focused on advancements in women’s health. Dr. Jeelani is an active member of many medical associations. A highly-skilled reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist focusing on all areas of reproductive health, Dr. Jeelani has a special interest in oncofertility, toxins’ impact on reproductive function, chemotherapy, and oocyte cryopreservation.

Dr. Jeelani serves patients from our Chicago, IL and our Detroit, MI clinics

Connect with Dr. Roohi Jeelani: 

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Do you ever wish someone would break down the complexities of joint hypermobility, sexual pain, and how they connect to your overall health? Well, that's exactly what we dived into in this episode!

We were honored to have Dr. Linda Bluestein, a former dancer-turned-physician specializing in hereditary disorders of connective tissue, join us to share her personal journey with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Her insights show how a combination of approaches, not a single solution, can lead to better health outcomes.

Highlights:

1. Multifaceted Approaches to Health:

   - Dr. Bluestein underscores that managing health issues, particularly joint hypermobility and its symptoms, often necessitates a combination of methods—ranging from medications and supplements to lifestyle changes and psychosocial support.

2. Joint Hypermobility in Dancers:

   - Did you know a stunning 90% of ballet dancers experience generalized joint hypermobility? We explore how joint hypermobility can lead to symptomatic conditions affecting dancers' performance and quality of life.

3. Sexual Pain and Pelvic Floor Disorders:

   - Learn about the prevalence and management of sexual pain and pelvic floor dysfunction, emphasizing these common issues as part of nearly every treatment plan Dr. Rahman and Dr. Bluestein encounter.

4. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS):

   - Unpack how mast cells and their potential hyperactivity cause distress and inflammation, and how managing triggers like food and exercise can significantly impact health outcomes.

5. Mind-Gut Connection:

   - Hear about the essential mind-gut connection in addressing abdominal pain and bloating, and why treatments like acupuncture are recommended based on individual preferences and experiences.

6. Empowerment and Self-Advocacy:

   - Dr. Rahman emphasizes the importance of not giving up, seeking reliable information, and making use of resources like this podcast to become your own best health advocate.

How You Can Get Involved:

Subscribe & Review: Head over to Apple or Spotify to subscribe, review, and let us know what topics you’d love to hear about next.

Go to my website and sign up for our newsletter for more insights and updates! 

Questions or Comments?We love engaging with our listeners! Drop your questions or comment on my Instagram page, and let’s keep learning and advocating for better health together.

Connect with Dr. Bluestein:

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Get in Touch with Dr. Rahman:

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While it may seem that menopause has begun to become more open to talking about, there is still a stigma and the idea that women should deal with the symptoms that come with it, including having issues with orgasms. Well, Dr. Lauren Streicher is on a mission to change that. 

Dr. Streicher is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society, and the founding Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause.

In addition to her academic appointment at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Dr. Streicher is on the faculty of Northwestern University’s Graduate Program in Reproductive Science and Medicine for students pursuing a Master of Science degree in medical research.

She is a best-selling author and has written multiple books including The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy and Sex Rx: Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever. Inside Information, a series of books about menopause launched in 2021 and includes Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina and Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist’s Guide to Turning Down the Heat. Her next book, Put the O Back into Mojo: A Post-Menopause Guide to Orgasm, is scheduled to be released in 2024.  

We discussed the critical importance of addressing hormone-related issues that impact mental health and sexual function in women. Topics ranged from the concept of "drug holidays" to the potential benefits of Viagra for conditions like sexual dysfunction, SSRI use for menopause management. Dr. Streicher provided invaluable insights into managing these challenges.

We also talked about societal taboos surrounding sexuality and the lack of emphasis on pleasure in sex education. Dr. Streicher shared insights from her collaboration with her daughter, Rachel, on their groundbreaking book about orgasms and libido. This book combines medical and psychosocial perspectives to educate and empower women on these crucial aspects of sexual health.

Highlights-

Importance of hormones in sexual health

• Impact of hormone imbalances on sexual function, 
• Hormone replacement therapy for managing sexual dysfunction.

Addressing Misconceptions about Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Common misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy,
• Benefits and risks associated with hormone replacement therapy,
• Importance of informed decision-making in hormone therapy

Gaslighting and Lack of Education in Sexual Health

• Lack of education and information on sexual health.
• Challenges in accessing comprehensive sexual health education.
• Addressing misinformation and stigma related to sexual health.

Menopause and Sexual Dysfunction

• Impact of menopause on sexual function. 
• Common sexual health issues during menopause.
• Treatment options for sexual dysfunction in menopausal women.
• Importance of addressing sexual health concerns in menopause.

Connect with...

Curious about how to nurture your bone health?

Today we're joined by the fabulous Dr. Kristi DaSapri, a national leader osteoporosis and menopause management.

We’re tackling a topic today that seriously needs more spotlight—bone health during menopause and the sneaky beast that is osteoporosis.

Did you know osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until you break a bone? Yep, it’s that silent. Today, we’re diving into why your bones are super important, how menopause can be tough on them, and what you can do about it. We’ll cover why early action is key and how estrogen loss impacts your bone density.

We’ve also got some great tips on how to keep your bones healthy with the right food, exercise, and why getting something called a DEXA scan could be a game changer for you.

Whether you’re nearing menopause, already there, or just planning ahead, understanding how to look out for your bones is crucial for keeping you active and injury-free as you age.

So, let’s break it all down in a way that makes sense and might even be a bit fun. And hey, don’t forget to hit subscribe and follow us for more insights. Ready to get smart about your bone health? Let’s go!

Connect with Dr. DeSapri:

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Do you ever wish that your sexual condition would be played out in a movie?

Well, that is exactly what our latest guests did. Welcome Bonnie Gross and Nancy Boyd to share their stories and explain why they created a feature film, Lady Parts.

Their film shines a light on crucial women's health issues, particularly focusing on the challenges and misdiagnoses often encountered in female sexual medicine.

Bonnie and Nancy’s story underscores a significant theme discussed throughout the podcast: medical gaslighting and the dire need for healthcare professionals to take women's pain seriously.

Turning frustration into action, Nancy and Bonnie faced significant challenges, including securing funding for a film centered on vaginal health—a topic often shrouded in stigma and shame.

I emphasize the importance of storytelling in medicine. By sharing real-life experiences through accessible media like film, there’s potential to transform patient care and professional understanding.

Lady Parts succeeds in doing just this, portraying not only the struggles associated with conditions like vulvodynia and vestibulectomies but also the healing processes and the vibrant communities that can arise from shared experiences.

Who else would you like me to interview? Remember, this podcast exists so that people are better educated and can advocate for themselves. Please like, share, and give us a 5-star review on Apple!

Highlights:

-Bonnie and Nancy share their personal Journey about pelvic pain and misdiagnoses. They don't hold back on their experiences.

-The Art of Advocacy and Filmmaking: Discover how Bonnie and Nancy chose to self-produce this film to maintain the narrative's authenticity and how they managed the challenges of funding and production.

- Educational Outreach: Understand the importance of spreading knowledge through cinema and education, advocating for better healthcare understanding among professionals and the public alike.

- Awareness is Empowerment: Greater knowledge about women's health issues leads to better advocacy and care.

- Community and Support Are Crucial: The journey of health is not to be walked alone. Community, professional guidance, and personal advocacy play essential roles in navigating the complexities of healthcare.

Lady Parts Links:

Official Site

Instagram

IMDb

Letterboxd

Want to donate to Lady Parts

Connect with Bonnie:

Portfolio & Blog

Instagram

TikTok

IMDb

Connect with Nancy:

Website

Instagram

IMDb

Get in Touch with me:

Practice

GynoGirl Website

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Youtube

Today we have another doctor and thriver on the show today.

Dr. Shieva Ghofrany who, brings a wealth of personal and professional experiences to her practice. Her journey, from battling ovarian cancer to navigating pregnancy and weight loss, fuels her commitment to women's health advocacy. Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Ghofrany is a sought-after media expert, and over 56k followers on Instagram.  

We delve deep into the challenges and complexities of menopause care, surgical menopause, ovarian cancer and endometriosis. 

The conversation highlights personal health struggles, including misdiagnoses, the impacts of surgical menopause, and the journey through ovarian cancer. Dr. Ghofrany stresses the importance of patient advocacy, education, and empowering women to engage proactively with their healthcare.

From shocking systemic flaws to inspiring personal anecdotes, this episode is a powerful call to action for better understanding and treatment of women's health issues.

Tune in to hear these expert voices share invaluable insights and stories about navigating the healthcare system, advocating for oneself, and the critical need for transparency and early detection in medical practice.

Remember, your health journey is uniquely yours, but you're not alone on this path. Together, let's continue learning, understanding, and advocating for better health practices.

Highlights:

- Dr. Ghofrany shares her personal battle with endometriosis and ovarian cancer, underscoring the complexities and the need for specialized surgical care.

-We discusse the nuances of diagnosing ovarian cancer and the alarming lack of early screening procedures.

- Both hosts explore the systemic issues in healthcare that affect the diagnosis and treatment processes, particularly highlighting the discrepancies in care and outcomes for Black patients.

-Early Detection is Crucial: Recognize and act on symptoms early and advocate for necessary screening to avoid late-stage diagnoses. If something feels off push to get answers. 

-Seek Specialized Care: The importance of finding experienced surgeons and being confident in your healthcare provider cannot be overstated.It’s not just about experience but do you actually like and feel comfortable with your provider?

Get in Touch with Dr. Shiva Ghofrany

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GynoGirl Website

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