Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs &amp; Hormones

Center for Sexual Health Promotion

Dr. Debby Herbenick – Rough Sex, How to have the “Talk with your Kids”, & Understanding the Risks

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

06/14/24 • 43 min

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:

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.
Consent is Critical: Discover the alarming gaps in discussions about consent, the intensity, type, and duration of choking, and the risks these pose.
Impact of Technology: Examine how technology and social media have reshaped the way we form relationships and communicate, affecting both consent and reactions.
Educational Outreach: I underscore the significance of parenting and professional guidance in addressing sexual health topics with tweens and teens.
Research Insights: Learn about recent findings showing the potential cumulative impacts of choking during sex on brain function and health.
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.

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Practice

Dr. Jayne Morgan on Women’s Heart Health and Menopause

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

09/20/24 • 42 min

Did you know heart disease is the number one killer of women, often going undetected due to subtle symptoms? In this episode, Dr. Jayne Morgan, a leading cardiologist, shares her insights into how menopause impacts cardiovascular health and how women can advocate for themselves in a system often biased against them.

Join Dr. Rahman as she sits down with Dr. Jayne Morgan, a renowned cardiologist passionate about addressing healthcare disparities. They delve into how heart disease uniquely affects women, especially during menopause, and the importance of understanding cardiovascular risks.

Dr. Morgan sheds light on the racial disparities in healthcare, the systemic biases that impact women of color, and the importance of clinical trials that include women. This episode also explores preventive measures, the role of hormone therapy, and how women can better advocate for their health.

Highlights:

Heart Disease in Women – Why it’s the #1 killer and how symptoms are often missed.
Menopause and Heart Health – The link between menopause, estrogen, and cardiovascular disease.
Bias in Clinical Trials – How underrepresentation in trials impacts women and minorities.
Navigating Healthcare Bias – Tips for women, especially women of color, to find the right care.
The Role of Hormone Therapy – Can it prevent heart disease, and how should it be approached?

If you found this episode insightful, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how healthcare can better serve women and follow Dr. Jayne Morgan on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for more medical insights.

Guest Bio

Dr. Jayne Morgan is an accomplished Cardiologist and Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart, with a strong focus on Women’s Health. She has extensive experience in cardiovascular research and is a recognized advocate for health equity, particularly in increasing minority participation in clinical trials. Dr. Morgan has held leadership positions at Piedmont HealthCare, where she led community health education efforts and the Covid Task Force. She is also well known for her social media series, The Stairwell Chronicles, which provides accessible medical information.

Dr. Morgan has received numerous accolades, including the NAACP Award and the National Women's Empowerment Award, and is a recognized expert on CNN and Scripps News. She holds an adjunct associate professor role at Morehouse School of Medicine and serves on various advisory boards, including Pfizer and Novartis. Her pioneering work in cardiovascular research, clinical trials, and women's health has made her a respected voice in the medical community.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Morgan is also a certified Pilates enthusiast, promoting overall wellness in and out of the clinic.

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Trauma, Midlife, and Women’s Health with Heather Quaile: What Every Patient and Provider Needs to Know

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

12/06/24 • 31 min

What if trauma from your past is impacting your health today—and no one’s talking about it? Join me and Dr. Heather Quaile as we talk about the essential truths about trauma-informed care and midlife health.

Heather, a seasoned nurse practitioner and sexual medicine expert, shares her journey from traditional healthcare to creating a compassionate, patient-centered approach that addresses the real-life challenges women face, especially in midlife.

We dive into how trauma—whether it’s from childhood, medical experiences, or societal pressures—can manifest in symptoms like severe menopause and chronic pain. Heather breaks down the "big T" and "little t" traumas and explains how acknowledging these experiences can transform patient care. We also discuss the power of the ACE score (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and how it should be a part of every clinician's toolkit.

Heather shares her experience working with trafficking survivors, addressing not just the immediate medical needs but the long-term emotional recovery these patients require. Her work highlights the importance of creating safe, empowering healthcare environments that consider the whole patient—mind, body, and history.

We also discuss why finding the right provider for midlife care is crucial and how to identify clinicians who prioritize evidence-based, patient-centered treatment. From understanding the principles of trauma-informed care to advocating for your health, this episode is packed with practical advice and deep insights.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that challenges the status quo and reminds us all of the importance of compassionate, informed care.

Highlights:

The connection between trauma and worsening menopause symptoms.
What trauma-informed care means and why it’s vital in healthcare settings.
How ACE scores help identify patients at higher risk for chronic health conditions.
Heather’s work with trafficking survivors and lessons for all healthcare providers.
Tips for finding the right provider for midlife and sexual health.

Heather’s Bio:

Heather’s Bio:

Dr. Heather Quaile, (she/her) is a renowned clinical and academic leader and

entrepreneur. A double board certified, women’s and gender health nurse practitioner

and advanced forensic nurse specializing in human trafficking and female sexual health.

She is a thought leader and creator of the Just Ask podcast. Dr. Quaile is also trained

and certified as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, AASECT sex counselor and

sexual assault nurse examiner providing sexual health education, trauma-informed

care, and information to patients of all ages. She created and implemented a medical

program for emergency stabilization for commercial sexual exploitation of youth in

Georgia. Dr. Quaile has been working in all aspects of women’s healthcare for over 23

years caring for women of all ages across the health-illness continuum and recognized

the lack of sexual health awareness not just in her community but in its providers. She

founded, developed, and implemented her private practice The Sexual Health

Optimization and Wellness (SHOW) Center. Her goal is to help guide patients through

their healthcare journey and provide a range of services that address the

biopsychosocial aspects of health, wellness, optimization, and sexuality. She is

passionate about changing the systems and beliefs that have stigmatized women’s

health and female sexuality through a non-judgmental, empathic approach grounded in

evidence-based research. She is a Fellow of the International Society for the Study of

Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) and Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse

Practitioners. She is the chair of the ISSWSH scientific committee and past Treasurer

of the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. She is on the

National Menopause Foundation medical advisory committee as well as the Governor’s

Task for human trafficking and sex offenders. She is widely published in the field of

women’s health, trauma-informed care, and is a highly sought after speaker for lectures

to international and national audiences.

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Reframing Menopause: Gabriella Espinosa on Stepping into Your True Power

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

07/05/24 • 52 min

Do you ever feel like society has left middle-aged women's health issues in the dark?

On today's episode we dive deep into menopause, breast health, and sexuality with our incredible guest, Gabriella Espinosa.

Gabriella, a sexual wellness and midlife menopause coach, shares her personal and professional journey in empowering women to embrace midlife and beyond.

Gabriella’s work emphasizes educating and empowering women about sexuality, mental wellness, and menopause, helping them transition through this life stage with grace and live more fully.

Together, we highlight the importance of creating language and awareness around these critical topics to avoid trauma and promote empowerment.

In this conversation, we also explore how menopause is not just a physical change but a significant life transformation. Gabriella walks us through her approach to guiding women in making peace with their bodies, setting goals for health, purpose, and sexuality, and dismantling limiting beliefs and shame around sex and pleasure.

We also touch on the societal implications and the dire need for representation of older women in all facets of society.

We also dive into Gabriella’s retreats which are in stunning locations like the countryside of England and France to aim to empower women, build communities, and provide essential education and support.

Our discussion is packed with valuable tips on self-advocacy in healthcare settings, mindfulness practices, and the importance of taking proactive measures for midlife health. Gabriella's personal stories and professional insights provide a roadmap for women to embrace their wisdom and live their best lives during midlife and beyond.

Jump into this episode to learn how you can advocate for yourself, be proactive about your health, and break free from societal narratives that hold you back.

Have someone in mind for our next interview? We want to hear from you!

Our mission is to educate and so you can advocate for yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts!

Highlights:

Gabriella shares her personal journey through perimenopause, including a decline in libido and symptoms like fatigue and anxiety. Learn how she transformed these challenges into a new career dedicated to helping other women.
Discover the importance of educating and empowering girls and women around sexuality, breast health, and menopause, to prevent shame and promote a healthier future.
Understand the psycho-emotional aspects of menopause and the need for mindset shifts and support during this transformative phase.
Learn more about Gabriella's wellness retreats, where women engage in talks on menopause, hormones, sexual health, yoga, mindfulness, and workshops aimed at empowerment and community building.
Tune into tips on advocating for yourself in medical scenarios, such as developing a language of sensations, preparing a list of questions, and asserting priorities in health concerns.
Gabriella's role as a coach involves guiding women to adopt mindfulness-based practices related to movement, nutrition, sexual health, and mental wellness, helping them become the best versions of themselves.
Hear Gabriella's call to embrace the wisdom and value of women in society, workplaces, and communities, and the importance of their lived experiences.

About our guest:

Gabriella Espinosa is a women’s health and sexual wellness coach and host of the podcast Pleasure in the Pause which is dedicated to empowering midlife women to own their pleasure, power and purpose through menopause and beyond.

Her work lies at the intersection of embodiment, eastern traditional wisdom, female sexuality and menopausal health and is informed by 15 years of guiding women to know, trust and appreciate their bodies through 1-1 and group coaching programs, online courses and international retreats.

Learning from her own experience of perimenopause with a lack of knowledge about her body, changing hormones and what to expect, Gabriella developed a holistic, educational and coaching program incorporating yoga, breathwork, mindfulness and sex education to support other women to demystify and navigate the transition into peri-menopause/menopause.

Gabriella believes menopause is an invitation to get to know ourselves better and upgrade our physical, mental and emotional selves to the best version possible. Gabriella’s guidance takes women on a journey of self-exploration, trust and knowing. We do get to the other side wiser, stronger, sexier and more empowered!

She serves on the board of the national non-profit Lett’s Talk Menopause. As a bilingual and bicultural Latina, she is committed to breaking the cultural stigma and broadening the menopause conversation within the Latina community...

How a Young Med Student Founded a Movement in Sexual Medicine | Dr.Jen Romanello

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

02/07/25 • 39 min

Sexual health is often misunderstood and neglected in medical training. What happens when a passionate student decides to challenge the system and ignite change?

The medical field often hesitates to tackle less-explored topics, but Dr. Jen Romanello is breaking new ground as a young advocate for advancing sexual medicine.As a medical student, Jen identified a glaring gap in education on female sexual health and decided to act. She founded the Medical Student Forum on Female Sexual Medicine, an initiative that has expanded to impact students across the U.S. and beyond.

In this episode, we delve into Jen’s journey from medical student to resident, exploring her mission to tackle the stigma surrounding sexual health in medical education. From collaborating with leading experts like Dr. Rachel Rubin and Dr. Andrew Goldstein to hosting groundbreaking symposiums, Jen has made waves in an underserved area of healthcare.

We also explore the challenges of navigating medical systems that often overlook sexual medicine and how Jen’s leadership is paving the way for students, clinicians, and patients alike. Whether it’s addressing medical trauma or fostering a deeper understanding of patient care, Jen’s work highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and a patient-first approach.

Her insights go beyond the clinic, offering practical advice for medical students, residents, and professionals interested in bridging gaps in education and care.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that showcases how one person’s determination can spark systemic change and improve countless lives.

Don’t miss this eye-opening episode. If you enjoyed the conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network to spread awareness about the importance of sexual medicine. Your feedback helps us continue these critical discussions!

Dr. Romanello’s Bio:

Jen Romanello MD is an intern physician in internal medicine at NYU and attended medical school at Rush Medical College in Chicago. She is President of the Medical Student Forum on Female Sexual Medicine (The Forum), which she founded in 2020. The Forum is an independent trainee-led organization that has facilitated over 1000 trainees to connect to educational, writing, research, conference, and mentorship opportunities in the field of Female Sexual Medicine (FSM).

Her professional interests include sexual medicine and menopause, reproductive mental health, neuroplastic pain, metabolism and nutrition, and lifestyle medicine. Her clinical research and publications have focused on topics including clitoral adhesions,chronic pelvic pain, and medical education.

She is a member of the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, the Menopause Society, and the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms. She loves speaking with medical students who are deciding which specialty to pursue about how there are many great ways to approach this field.

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Medical Student Forum

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BV (Bacterial Vaginosis) Isn't Just Annoying—New Research Could Change Everything

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

03/14/25 • 25 min

We've talked before about how women’s health issues are often overlooked, but new research is challenging what we thought we knew about bacterial vaginosis (BV). What if BV is actually an STI?

For years, we've treated bacterial vaginosis as a frustrating yet common vaginal infection. But new research suggests BV may actually be sexually transmitted — and that changes everything.

In this episode, I dive into a groundbreaking study from the New England Journal of Medicine that reveals treating a woman's partner with antibiotics may reduce BV recurrence. This finding has huge implications for how we diagnose and manage this condition, especially since BV is linked to serious complications like infertility, preterm labor, and increased risk of other infections.

I also unpack why the feminine hygiene industry continues to prey on women’s insecurities — selling products that often do more harm than good. While some vaginal health products may seem promising, they can upset your vaginal microbiome, potentially increasing your risk of infections like BV.

Finally, I break down practical strategies for preventing and treating recurrent BV, from partner treatment to emerging solutions like boric acid suppositories and innovative medications designed to break down stubborn bacterial biofilms.

If you've struggled with recurring BV or want to know how to better advocate for your vaginal health, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Highlights:

New research showing BV may be sexually transmitted
Why treating male partners could reduce BV recurrence
The dangers of feminine hygiene products that disrupt vaginal health
The role of boric acid in breaking down stubborn biofilms
Why vaginal health products often target women’s insecurities — and what to watch out for

If this episode gave you a new perspective, please like, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps spread the word and empower more people with the information they need to advocate for their health.

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Menopause Myth Busting with Dr. Heather Hirsch: What You Need to Know

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

11/22/24 • 45 min

Did you know that many menopause myths could be impacting your health choices? Dr. Heather Hirsch joins us to clear the confusion and empower women with the facts.

Menopause is often clouded by myths and misinformation, leaving many women confused about their health options. In this episode, Dr. Sameena Rahman invites Dr. Heather Hirsch, a dedicated expert in women's health, to share her journey into menopause care and the profound insights she's gained over the past decade.

From the misconceptions surrounding HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) to the nuanced challenges of treating perimenopause, Dr. Hirsch discusses her unique "hormone stacking" approach and how it aids in managing side effects effectively.

This conversation goes beyond surface-level explanations, diving into the realities of balancing treatment, understanding progesterone sensitivities, and how personalized care makes a difference in women's experiences. Listen in for a blend of clinical expertise and relatable advice that champions informed choices and women's health advocacy.

Highlights

Dr. Hirsch’s Journey: From OBGYN to menopause specialist—how her path shaped her passion for women’s health.
Hormone Stacking Insight: Why introducing hormones one at a time can be transformative for treatment.
Perimenopause Realities: Breaking down misconceptions and exploring why tailored care is essential.
Progesterone Sensitivities: Understanding the third-rule approach to help patients navigate side effects.
Brain Health & HRT: The untold story of how hormone therapy impacts cognitive function and mental health.

Enjoyed this discussion? Don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a comment. Your engagement helps us bring you more expert conversations. What other guest would you like to see on the podcast. Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know!

Dr. Hirsch’s Bio :

HEATHER HIRSCH, M.D., MS, NCMP, is the founder of the Menopause & Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a former Harvard Medical School faculty member. Board certified in Internal Medicine, she completed advanced fellowship training in Women’s Health at the Cleveland Clinic. Her practice specializes in menopausal hormone therapy, perimenopause, breast cancer survivorship, sexual dysfunction, and bone health. Dr. Hirsch is an active member of the North American Menopause Society and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and serves on the medical advisory board of Midi Health. She now sees patients via her private telemedicine practice.

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Dr. Corinne Menn: Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors

Gyno Girl Presents: Sex, Drugs & Hormones

02/16/24 • 48 min

Today, we're diving deep into a critically important and often overlooked topic: the intersection of breast cancer survival and menopause management. We have Dr. Corinne Menn joining us to share her expertise and personal journey as a breast cancer survivor experiencing menopause.

In this episode, we're uncovering the impact of menopausal symptoms on cardiac health and metabolic function, the cautious yet potentially life-enhancing role of estrogen therapy in reducing heart disease risk, dementia, and osteoporosis, and how this can fit into the lives of breast cancer survivors—especially those entering menopause prematurely due to treatment.

Dr. Menn will be touching on the holistic approach to managing menopause, emphasizing the need for personalized care and advocating for the rights and health of women post-breast cancer treatment.

We'll also be discussing the groundbreaking and potentially controversial studies covered in Dr. Avrum Bluming and Dr. Carol Travis’s book "Estrogen Matters," all aimed at shifting the narrative on estrogen use.

Furthermore, we delve into the importance of self-advocacy in seeking informed care from healthcare providers and the future initiatives me and Dr. Menn are eager to tackle together to improve women's health.

Highlights:

The Curious Case of Estrogen

Dr. Menn and I tackled the fear around hormones causing breast cancer, debunking myths, and highlighting that estrogen receptors are present throughout the body. Understanding this helps in managing menopausal symptoms with minimal risks.

HRT After Breast Cancer: A Paradigm Shift

We delved into the Menopause Society's position allowing for estrogen therapy in severe cases unresponsive to other treatments. Dr. Menn, through her experience and extensive research, stressed the need for shared decision-making based on personalized risks.

Beyond Survival: Thriving Post-Treatment

The discussion also focused on the lack of conversation regarding menopausal symptom management and preventative health measures for breast cancer survivors. Dr. Menn recounted her journey, shedding light on the limited support for managing menopausal symptoms post-treatment.

Personalized Medicine & Future Collaborations

Dr. Menn and I plan to work collectively on women's health initiatives, extending our knowledge. She also shared her interest in writing a protocol for counseling breast cancer survivors, aiming to enhance sexual health and hormone therapy conversations.

Mentioned:

Book

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