Normal Isn’t Always Optimal with Shelby Sheppard

On today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Karen Desrosiers, a distinguished ObGyn specializing in menopause. Dr. Desrosiers dispels common misconceptions about menopause, elaborates on the symptoms, and delves into various treatment options.

Dr. Karen is an expert in her field completing her ObGyn specialty at Sherbrooke University and is a member of The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC). She is also a board member of the Canadian Menopause Society, a member of the North American Menopause Society, and is a North American Menopause Society Certified Menopause Practitioner.

She’s been working through Horizon and Vitality Health Network in Moncton, NB since 2004 as well as in a private gynecology clinic. She’s currently working with BioSyent Pharmaceutical on a new treatment for PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).

Join us as Dr. Karen Desrosiers demystifies menopause, sheds light on treatment options, and imparts valuable advice for women navigating this transformative life stage.

Here are some other things we talked about in our conversation today and where you can find them in this episode.

6:28 - Dr. Karen’s Personal Story
Dr. Karen shares her personal story about how she felt pressure to be excellent and why and how she prioritized her mental health.
9:26 - Exploring the Physical and Mental Symptoms of Perimenopause
Dr. Karen outlines prevalent perimenopause symptoms she discusses with her patients.
13:26 - There is No Blood Test
We learn that there is no blood test available to determine if a woman is in perimenopause.

15:18 - Why Is This Phase Of Life Such A Mystery?
The Women’s Health Initiative was published over 20 years ago. Karen explains what has changed and why hormone therapy is a safe option for women in perimenopause.
18:10 - The Internet and Menopause
Besides This Is Perimenopause, Dr. Karen gives us her recommendations of websites that offer reliable and helpful information about perimenopause and menopause.

Menopause Foundation of Canada
Menopause Society
The Menopause Manifesto by Jen Gunter
19:42 - Talking to Doctor
Tips about how to prepare to talk to your doctor about your perimenopause symptoms and how to best advocate for yourself.
25:55 - Benefits of Estrogen
Dr. Karen elaborates on how estrogen can alleviate both physical and mental perimenopause symptoms and also has some preventative effects.

29:02 - Natural Doesn’t Equal Good
Dr. Karen explains how natural remedies lack the same rigorous standards as prescription options.

31:18 - Role of Progesterone in Hormone Therapy
32:24 - The one thing Dr. Karen wants you to know about perimenopause and menopause.

What did you think of today's episode? We want to hear from you!