I’m not going to lie. I was much more prepared for puberty, pregnancy, motherhood, and even menopause than I was for aging. And you all know that’s a big deal to say because we’re largely unprepared for all the other phases of our lives, too. But the reality is, we’re aging from the day we’re born, and much of what we’ve internalized about aging - the fears, judgments, stereotypes - and even ‘symptoms’ if you will - have much more to do with the culture of ageism we’re steeped in from the...

At some point, too many of us internalized the belief that being a woman means complete self-sacrifice, not setting healthy boundaries for our well-being, and not taking care of our fundamental needs – even for sleep, quality food, and relaxation. Further, as moms, we often take on the lioness's share of the household. As partners, we plan the dates and stay in touch with old friends. At work, we pick up the slack of others without so much as a peep of protest. But here's the thing- often,...

Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of unresolved trauma and its psychological, emotional, or even physical effects from one generation to another. This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, impacting individuals' mental health, coping mechanisms, and relational patterns. The cycle of intergenerational trauma underscores the importance of acknowledging, understanding, and actively addressing inherited wounds to break free from its influence on future generations. On today’s...

Self-care - it’s both a profoundly important concept for our physical and mental well-being - a radical step in a culture that demands ever more of us, and it’s a phenomenon that has been trivialized by the wellness world - and any number of influencers and companies that suggest a bubble bath and a candle is enough for what stresses us. But real self care is so much more - it’s an inside job, as my guest Pooja Lakshmin, MD, shares with us. A-psychiatrist, author, and the founder of Gemma...

In the midst of the chaos that seems to be almost a constant in the world, it's easy to forget that individual lives and losses are still happening every day and can be deeply affecting us or those around us, as can family mental health issues. Sometimes those bigger global issues give us perspective, take us out of our own worries, and that can feel actually broadening and helpful and can put our lives into a perspective that brings some ease or inner peace even. Not that we're taking...

Like so many moms, Erica Djossa, a registered psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health, entered motherhood assuming her “maternal instinct” would guide her through any challenges she faced. Yet, like so many mothers she'd counseled, she too, found herself struggling with identity loss, the mental load of motherhood, and the pressure to be perfect. Eventually, she had a breakdown that turned out to be a breakthrough – a moment where she realized that she was suffering from...

Here's a little secret: hidden inflammation, not genetics, is the most common underlying cause of chronic illness. Hidden inflammation is a root cause of: Premenstrual syndrome Period pain Chronic aches and pains Digestive problems Allergies and eczema Trouble losing weight Trouble sleeping Depression Alzheimer’s Autoimmune diseases Heart disease, Cancer, Diabetes The problem is most doctors are not aware of hidden inflammation let alone how to identify or address it. Western...

In recent years, the term "medical gaslighting" has come to represent the phenomenon and disproportionate impact of medical dismissal of women and other marginalized groups. All too often, women leave the doctor’s office questioning themselves and their symptoms and are too often pressed into silently endure their suffering, sometimes until it's tragically too late. How can we identify when medical gaslighting is happening and protect ourselves or those we love? Join me on today's episode...

Grief and loss touch us all in ways both small and big throughout our lives, yet our culture often struggles to embrace the messy emotions that grief brings. On today’s On Health episode, I'm joined by author and cancer thriver Kris Carr to discuss her latest book, "I'm Not a Mourning Person,” which dives deep into the complexities of grief and healing. We explore how life's ruptures turn our world upside down and reshape us, the importance of acknowledging grief, and the difference between...

Considering whether to embark on the journey of freezing your eggs? Naturally, this comes with a myriad of questions and considerations. If you're pondering this path and wondering if it's the right move for you, you're not alone. Join me in today's "Let's Chat About That," where I address a vulnerable question from a listener who's navigating the idea of freezing her eggs and unpack some of the myths and mysteries of this fertility option. Tune in as I explain the ins and outs of egg...

Menopause is a transition that is so hushed, misunderstood, and often considered "taboo” in our culture. But what many fail to notice is that menopause is a beautiful new chapter in life that deserves respect, recognition, and reverence. I'm on a mission to change the conversation around menopause to one of profound power and wisdom - because at this stage in life, we have ARRIVED! Also on this mission is my guest on today's episode of On Health, the multi-Emmy Award-winning midlife...

As we transition into autumn, with to-do lists piling up and the pressure of getting back "on track," it's an important time to revisit an age-old and perenially resonant topic: Perfectionism. It's part of how we end up overwhelmed, doing it all, and never feel like we're doing enough. i know that feeling, too! Perfectionism, that relentless inner sense of 'not-enoughness; that far too many women know far too well, is a form of what's known as high-functioning anxiety, it's a sign that you...

The US, known for medical progress, is facing higher maternal mortality rates than almost any western country, and too many women don’t get the birth experience they hoped for. Enter my guest, the amazing Chanel Porchia-Albert, founder of Ancient Song Doula Services, who is here to chat with us about breaking barriers and bringing doula care to everyone. Get ready to learn about doulas' impact on birth, bridging gaps in healthcare, and making sure all birthing people have the support they...

I’m a vaginal ecologist. Say what? Yes, you heard that correctly, a vaginal ecologist. Ecology is the relationship of organisms to one another and to their environment – their ecosystem. And just like any ecosystem in nature, your vagina has its own special ecology. Your overall health affects the health of your vaginal ecology, and your vaginal ecology in turn, affects your overall health - in more ways than you might expect! Join me today as I walk you through all things related to the...

As of 2022, the supplement industry was estimated to be worth $35.6 billion. But all that glitters is not gold. Supplement companies have a history of stepping into murky waters with health claims and products that don’t provide what they say is on the bottle—or sometimes include unlisted ingredients. Further, women are grossly underrepresented in ownership and leadership roles in the supplement industry, though most purchases are made by women. My guest today is defying these odds, paving...

As if hopping onto an (almost always freezing cold) exam table butt-naked wasn't stressful enough, knowing what to do when it comes to Pap tests and pelvic examinations can be super confusing at any age. This week, I’m resharing a timeless episode from the On Health archives that will fill you in on everything you need to know about the Pap test, HPV, and pelvic exams. I cover why we can finally say bye-bye to routine annual pelvic exams (insert cheer here!) and how often a Pap test and HPV...

When the word "hypnosis" comes to mind, we often associate it with stage performances and peculiar antics, but there’s a deeper and more powerful side to this practice, particularly when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth. This is where hypnobirthing comes in—a powerful therapeutic approach that taps into the transformative power of the subconscious during the birthing process. On today’s episode of On Health, join me as I chat with Kerry Tuschhoff, the founder of Hypnobabies, a program...

Did you know researchers estimate that nearly two-thirds of those living with Alzheimer’s in the United States are women? As this data continues to emerge, conversations surrounding brain health are as important as ever before, which is why I’ve decided to share a beloved episode from the archives where I’m joined by a leading voice in Neuroscience, bestselling author, and one of the most influential scientists of our time, Dr. Lisa Mosconi. Lisa is blowing the lid off of female brain...

According to a recent survey of over 1300 women, 56% experienced dissatisfaction with their births. Unfortunately, this statistic reveals only a glimpse into a very broken system and the reality for birthing women in our country, where 30% report some form of trauma in their birth experience.  So, where do we go from here? On today’s episode of On Health, I'm joined by award-winning journalist Allison Yarrow, who is on a mission to change this. Allison's work centers on exposing how modern...

Welcome back to the second half of this two-part series, 10 Birth Control Myths and Realities You Should Really Know! In part one, I explored the Pill's connection to blood clots, cancer, depression, and cognitive changes. Through rigorous research and analysis, I shed light on the myths and truths behind these assertions and explored whether there is any validity to them.   Today, we continue our mission to separate fact from fiction as we go deeper into this topic. In part two, I uncover...

For almost sixty years, the birth control pill has been a symbol of sexual liberation for women, offering relief from symptoms and granting newfound control. For some women, it can be practically miraculous. But the Pill also has side effects and risks that are often dismissed by medical doctors yet exaggerated by the wellness world. So, is the Pill a friend or a foe?  It’s time to separate myth from reality, and I’ll be doing just that and more in this juicy two-part miniseries of On...

Female anatomy is shrouded in misconceptions and limited knowledge. Yet within us lies potential for transformation, healing, and pleasure.  On today's episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by distinguished journalist and author of the acclaimed book "Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage." Rachel E. Gross.    Rachel's groundbreaking book sheds light on untold stories and silenced narratives, shaping our understanding of female anatomy. Through her detailed research and heartfelt storytelling,...

Perfectionism, that nagging feeling of never doing enough, of never being good enough, guilt any time you practice a little self-care. Do you ever wonder where these feelings and inner voices that dog us come from?  It's a question I've given a lot of thought to and deep-dived into in today's Oh Health podcast with Elise Loehnen, author of her newest release, the NYT Bestseller, "On Our Best Behavior: The 7 Deadly Sins and the Price Women Pay to Be Good." Join me for the latest episode of...

It’s a startling and unfortunate reality that too many Americans are unable to access the medications they need for their basic healthcare, and that on top of this, billions of dollars' worth of pharmaceuticals go to waste annually, causing environmental pollution as well. Joining me today is none other than a trailblazer who needs no introduction as she embarks on a transformative mission to create a BETR way! After 19 remarkable seasons on one of the most beloved television series of our...

Are you concerned about the impact of birth control pills on your fertility? It's only natural to prioritize the well-being of your body and future fertility. And rest assured, you're not alone. A recent study of over 2,000 women who used oral contraceptives (OCs) found that most women had some worries. Fortunately, there's enough reassuring data that should allow you to breathe a major sigh of relief, all of which I'll delve into today with another special "Let’s Chat About That" episode of...