All Episodes

Tara Eglington generously shares her unexpected journey through perimenopause from the age of 37, highlighting its profound impact on her mental health and daily life. By discussing the challenges she faced—including anxiety, panic attacks, night sweats and an unexpected OCD diagnosis —Tara emphasises the importance of storytelling, awareness, and seeking support in navigating this often isolating time of life. During our conversation, you will learn about: • Tara's path to advocacy • The symp...

Start the new year by joining me, Sonya Lovell, in exploring essential topics that shape our midlife journey. Dive into a curated list of must-listen episodes that promise to inspire and inform as you set your goals for 2025. I spotlight influential voices in the menopause sphere, including Dr Kelly Teagle, who empowers us to build healthy habits, and Sarah Rusbach, who challenges us to rethink our relationship with alcohol. Nutritionist Ange Clark offers her expertise on supplements for midli...

Joined by Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich, a leading clinical neuropsychologist, today we explore the fascinating world of neurodiversity, menopause, and women's mental health. Caroline opens up about her work at the HER Center, where she sheds light on how understanding brain changes and behaviour is crucial in addressing women's health issues. Gain insights into the evolving understanding of menopause and cognition, and how recognising neurodiversity's spectrum from neurotypical to neuro...

Join Johanna Wicks and me in today's Hot Take as we unravel the complicated process of getting treatments added to Australia's PBS, sparked by a recent breakthrough announcement about endometriosis medication. We explore the pivotal, yet often misunderstood, roles that pharmaceutical companies and the government play in this process and why modern menopause hormone therapy (MHT) hasn't yet made it to the PBS despite public demand. Delving deeper, we contrast MPA, a synthetic progestin, with bo...

Ever wondered how self-advocacy can transform your healthcare journey (and even your GPs), especially during pivotal life transitions like menopause? Meet Julie Dutton, affectionately dubbed by her GP as "Patient Zero," after her strong advocacy reshaped Dr Ceri Cashell's career when it came to managing her patients' midlife hormone health. Jules' tale of moving from England to Australia while pregnant, overcoming postnatal depression and then educating her own GP on the importance of understa...

In this Hot Take episode, Johanna and Sonya venture beyond the outdated "iron curtain" myth of Menopausal Hormone Therapy after age 60, revealing a new Australian research paper that could transform women's menopause care and longevity. We dive into the confusion that often surrounds vaginal estrogen because of misleading warnings on packaging. The exaggerated risks deter many from reaping the health benefits these products offer and many doctors from prescribing it. And we chat about the anti...

Dr Ceri Cashell's journey into improving the menopause care she gave patients, as a GP, was sparked by one patient's suggestion that she learn more about testosterone. This led her to explore and become a vocal champion for the essential role of sex hormones in women's overall well-being. Join us as we talk through the complexities of menopause care, especially from a GP's perspective. Ceri is passionate about the need for real-world solutions that cater to the diverse and real needs of women g...

Join me for an enlightening conversation with Senator Marielle Smith as we explore the transformative Senate Inquiry into Perimenopause and Menopause in Australia. Over the past year, this Inquiry gathered insights from over 300 submissions, culminating in 25 key recommendations supported across political lines by the Liberal Party, Labor, and the Greens. Senator Smith provides a behind-the-scenes look at how these recommendations aim to improve women's healthcare and workplace conditions duri...

How does an experienced women's health advocate struggle to recognise her own perimenopausal symptoms? Join me as I explore Johanna Wicks' journey from confusion to advocacy, sparked by Dr. Ginni Mansberg's enlightening book, "The M Word." Jo's story reveals a significant gap in women's health education and sets the stage for her influential role in the national conversation on menopause in Australia. Through powerful initiatives, Jo has reshaped the landscape of menopause awareness and policy....

The question Dr Kelly Teagle has for women is what will it cost you if you don't create healthy habits and make meaningful lifestyle changes now, while you're still young enough for it to make a big impact? In 10 to 20 years, will you be functioning well and still doing all the things that give your life meaning? In this episode, Dr Kelly, a leading GP specialising in women's health, shares her expertise on how comprehensive menopausal health education, support and bedding down healthy habits ...

As one of your guides through the ever-shifting landscape of menopause, I'm hitting pause on the podcast to recharge my batteries. But only for 3 short weeks!! Dear Menopause will be back with episode 94 on Friday 22nd March 2024. Make sure you're subscribed or following the podcast to ensure you are notified when the episode drops. While I'm off savouring the joys of travel and adventure, you can use the opportunity to head back into the episode archives to discover stories that you may hav...

Menopause can leave many women feeling dry, itchy and irritated particularly when it comes to changes in skin health. Join me as Dr Shreya Andric, a leading dermatologist who also specialises in vulvar dermatology, shares her expertise on how declining estrogen and progesterone influence our skin during perimenopause and postmenopause. Dr Andric shares tips on embracing gentle skincare routines to maintain your skin's vitality and resilience. Our chat offers a compassionate guide for women to...

In this episode, I share 3 essential tips for those days when perimenopause is really kicking your butt, that you can get started with today. The focus is on journaling to keep track of symptoms, how to find a supportive healthcare professional, and small mindful lifestyle changes. These steps are vital for taking back control of your health and choices at a time when you may feel completely out of control. Key Points Discussed: 1. Journaling for Symptom Tracking: I highlight the importance o...

Senator Marielle Smith joins Sonya to discuss the Australian Senate Inquiry into Menopause and Perimenopause. Hear how this Inquiry hopes to break the silence on a topic all too often overlooked. Marielle takes us through the Inquiry's mission to recommend both legislative and societal changes and set the stage for a new era of understanding and support for this area of women's health. We delve into the heart of the Menopause Inquiry and the mechanics behind the submission process which invit...

Have you wished that you could find a Doctor who weaves the wisdom of Eastern traditions with Western medical science? In this conversation with Dr Fatima Khan, we cover everything from hormone health to the influential role of our elders, reminding us that this phase is not just about changes but about adaptation and growth. Hormones can be a rollercoaster, and Dr Khan is no stranger to their ups and downs. Sharing experiences of her hormonal imbalances, this honest conversation with Dr. Khan...

Have you ever found yourself in that murky space where your drinking seems more habitual than social, yet not quite what you'd label as addiction? Join the conversation with Sarah Rusbatch, a distinguished coach navigating the intricacies of grey area drinking. Sarah peels back the layers of her personal narrative, from motherhood to moving abroad, and how these pivotal moments can silently shift our drinking patterns. We're cracking open the dialogue on the subtle yet undeniable signs of when...

Have you ever felt like you're on the cusp of something extraordinary, but you're held back by the invisible chains of expectations? Esther Zeledon, the visionary behind Be Act Change, joins me to unravel the threads of these limitations and together, we tackle the nuances of going after your dreams, especially for those stepping beyond midlife. Transitioning from a career or even relationship that's comfortable to one that's driven by passion is akin to crossing a tightrope with your heart as...

When Sheree Hargreaves was diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency at just 15, it reshaped her teenage years in unexpected ways. Sheree, now 22, shares her courageous story, navigating early menopause symptoms and the complexities of hormone replacement therapy—a narrative that will both inspire and educate. Her candid insights put a spotlight on the urgent need to bridge the education gaps in women's health, especially for conditions like POI that are often shrouded in silence. In the...

Who knew discussing periods could be so enlightening? You'll never see menstrual health the same way again after tuning in to this powerful conversation with Dr Talat Uppal, an obstetrician-gynecologist specialising in heavy menstrual bleeding. Dr Uppal helps us break down the wall of silence surrounding menstrual health, sharing her extensive knowledge on what constitutes heavy bleeding and how it impacts a woman's life. Opening up about periods is not just liberating—it's necessary. Talat a...

Enjoy a heartfelt conversation with Dani Binnington, the inspiring founder of the Menopause and Cancer organisation, and a breast cancer survivor. Dani gives a raw and brutally honest account of her journey through cancer and menopause, offering invaluable insights and experiences. We touch on the societal and personal pressures that women often grapple with and the liberation that comes with breaking free from stereotypes. Self-care and mental health take centre stage as we discuss these sign...

The need for better management of symptoms for women in surgically or medically induced menopause is undeniable. In this episode, we navigate through the complexities of menopause and breast cancer, with Dr Corinne Menn, a board-certified OBGYN and a breast cancer survivor, shedding light on this often overlooked and too often dismissed topic. Not only does Dr Menn share her journey with us, but she also highlights the urgent need for education in this area. Dr. Menn's unfiltered discourse on...

Ever wondered why insomnia seems to be a constant companion when you hit perimenopause? Today, we unravel the mysteries of sleep, especially as it relates to women during the menopausal transition. I am joined by the incredibly knowledgeable Tracey Martin, a seasoned sleep coach who shares her insights on achieving optimal rest. Our enlightening conversation with Tracey takes us through the intricacies of sleep stages and the pivotal role they play in achieving deep, restorative sleep. We disc...

Ever climb a mountain in high-heels? Metaphorically, that's what it feels like navigating through menopause. We've all heard about it, but few are prepared when it hits. But what's a journey without a travel buddy? Meet Grace Lam, our guest for this episode, who has transformed her menopause journey into a beacon of hope and advocacy. An icon in fashion, a Vogue insider, and now, a board member at Revelation Film Festival and the host of 'Me Not Pause', Grace has been there, done that. Liste...

Have you ever reflected on the trials and triumphs of navigating through menopause? Well, this episode is a heart-to-heart with Tania Dalton who has journeyed through this phase of life and come out stronger. Tania shares her post-menopausal journey, discussing how it led her to reappraise her lifestyle choices, prioritise sleep, manage stress, and eventually improve her overall health. Tania's story isn't just about surviving menopause; it's about thriving. She redefines societal expectations...