Period Chats - A hormone wellness podcast.

Summary:

In this conversation, Kate Morton and Fiona discuss their personal experiences with PCOS and Hashimoto's, as well as the importance of addressing gut health and trauma in these conditions. They emphasize the need for inclusive nutrition and avoiding strict dietary restrictions. They also highlight the role of circadian rhythms and sleep in managing these conditions, as well as the importance of mindful eating and chewing food properly. Overall, they advocate for a holistic approach to healing that focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for the body.

KeywordsPCOS, Hashimoto's, gut health, trauma, inclusive nutrition, circadian rhythms, sleep, mindful eating, holistic approach

Takeaways

• PCOS and Hashimoto's are conditions that often overlap and can be managed through a holistic approach.
• Addressing gut health and trauma is important in managing these conditions.
• Inclusive nutrition is key, and strict dietary restrictions may not be necessary for everyone.
• Circadian rhythms and sleep play a crucial role in managing PCOS and Hashimoto's.
• Mindful eating and chewing food properly can improve digestion and overall well-being.

• Managing PCOS and Hashimoto's: A Holistic Approach
• Mindful Eating: Improving Digestion and Well-being

Chapters

00:00 Navigating PCOS and Hashimoto's: Personal Experiences and Insights

05:42 Inclusive Nutrition and Balanced Plate-Building for PCOS and Hashimoto's

11:17 Nervous System Regulation and Circadian Rhythms in Chronic Health Management

25:32 Impact of Social Media Narratives and Mindful Eating in Health and Wellness

Connect with Fiona -- https://www.instagram.com/heal.with.fifi/

Summary:

In this episode, Kate Morton and Callie discuss the importance of keeping it real when it comes to health. They talk about the pressure to be perfect in terms of diet and exercise, and how social media can contribute to this perfectionist mindset. Callie shares her journey of finding balance and healing her relationship with wellness. They also discuss the challenges and changes that come with pregnancy, including food aversions and modifying workouts. The conversation emphasizes the need to listen to your body, start small, and let go of the all-or-nothing mindset.

Keywords: health, perfectionism, social media, balance, wellness, pregnancy, food aversions, workouts, listen to your body, start small, all-or-nothing mindset

Takeaways

• The pressure to be perfect in terms of diet and exercise can be detrimental to our mental and physical health.
• Social media can contribute to a perfectionist mindset and make us feel like we're not doing enough.
• Finding balance and healing our relationship with wellness is important for a more enjoyable and less restrictive life.
• Pregnancy can bring about changes in food preferences and the need to modify workouts, but it's important to listen to your body and let go of judgment.
• Starting small and setting realistic goals is key to building consistency and self-confidence in our health routines.

• Listening to Your Body and Letting Go of Judgment
• Finding Balance and Healing in the Wellness Journey

• "The pressure to be perfect in terms of diet and exercise"
• "Finding balance and healing our relationship with wellness"
• "Pregnancy can bring about changes in food preferences"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context

08:11 Finding Balance and Healing in the Wellness Journey

24:06 Starting Small: The Key to Consistency and Self-Confidence in Health

29:37 Conclusion and Where to Find Callie

Connect with Callie: https://www.instagram.com/calliegualy/

Connect with Kate: https://www.instagram.com/carbsandkate/

SummaryIn this episode, Kate Morton discusses the steps to prepare the body for pregnancy and improve fertility. She emphasizes the importance of caring for fertility even if not actively trying to conceive. The chapters cover topics such as getting off birth control, tracking ovulation, choosing the right prenatal, the importance of sperm health, age and fertility, and seed cycling for fertility.Takeaways

• Caring for fertility is important for overall health and vitality, even if not actively trying to conceive.
• Getting off birth control at least a year before trying to conceive allows time to understand the body's natural cycle and address any underlying issues.
• Tracking ovulation and understanding the fertile window is crucial for optimizing chances of conception.
• Choosing the right prenatal supplement involves considering factors such as folate, iron, choline, and third-party testing.
• Sperm health is equally important for fertility, and nutrition and lifestyle choices play a significant role.
• Age is a factor in fertility, but individual differences exist, and it's important to focus on overall health and have regular check-ups.
• Seed cycling can be a beneficial practice for regulating the menstrual cycle and providing essential nutrients for fertility.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:10 Getting Off Birth Control

05:26 Tracking Ovulation and Understanding Fertile Window

07:49 How Long Does It Usually Take to Conceive?

10:15 Choosing the Right Prenatal

16:01 Importance of Sperm Health

18:07 Age and Fertility

20:59 Seed Cycling for Fertility

23:19 Conclusion

Summary: In this episode, Kate Morton and Anna Grace Newell discuss the importance of tapping into intuition and how it can be used to find alignment and purpose in life. They explore the concept of the Akashic Records and how they can be accessed to gain insight and guidance. The conversation also covers the process of getting started with intuition, changing inner dialogue, and differentiating between intuition and intrusive thoughts. They highlight the connection between intuition and health, particularly in relation to cycle syncing. The episode concludes with practical tips and practices for tapping into intuition and where to find more resources on the topic.

Takeaways

• Tapping into intuition is a powerful tool for finding alignment and purpose in life.

• Changing inner dialogue and being kind to oneself is essential for connecting with intuition.
• Differentiating between intuition and intrusive thoughts can be done by observing the length, emotion, and clarity of the thoughts.
• Intuition can provide valuable guidance in relation to health and cycle syncing.
• Practices such as journaling, getting in touch with nature, and using oracle cards can help tap into intuition.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intuition and Akashic Records

05:06 Getting Started with Intuition

06:05 Finding Alignment and Purpose

09:07 Changing Inner Dialogue

11:29 Differentiating Intuition from Intrusive Thoughts

19:21 Connecting Intuition with Health

25:25 Cycle Syncing and Intuition

33:33 Practices for Tapping into Intuition

37:04 Conclusion and Where to Find Anna!

SummaryIn this episode, Kate and Caitlin discuss the different phases of the menstrual cycle and provide insights into each phase. They debunk the myth that the menstrual cycle and the period are the same thing and explain the hormonal changes that occur during each phase. They emphasize the importance of understanding the fertile window and provide tips for tracking ovulation. The hosts also address common misconceptions about the luteal phase and offer strategies for managing PMS symptoms. They conclude by highlighting the power of tracking your cycle and tailoring your life to your individual needs.Takeaways

• The menstrual cycle and the period are not the same thing. The menstrual cycle consists of different phases, each with its own hormonal changes and characteristics.
• Understanding the fertile window is crucial for both conception and contraception. Tracking cervical mucus and using ovulation tests can help identify the fertile window.
• The luteal phase is often misunderstood and associated with negative symptoms. However, it can be a time for self-reflection and setting boundaries.
• Managing stress and cortisol levels is essential for a healthy menstrual cycle. High cortisol can dampen the effects of progesterone and lead to PMS symptoms.
• Tracking your cycle can provide valuable insights into your body and help tailor your lifestyle to your individual needs.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

02:39Menstrual Phase

03:55Follicular Phase

07:34Fertile Window

09:44Ovulation

12:58Luteal Phase

16:44Understanding the Luteal Phase

21:08Managing PMS Symptoms

23:08Importance of Tracking Your Cycle24:14Conclusion

In this enlightening episode of Period Chats Podcast, join us as we delve into the world of holistic wellness with the incredible Cami Sophia. Discover the transformative power of intention in creating a wellness routine that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.

🌿 Episode Highlights:

• Meet our special guest, Cami Sophia, a seasoned wellness expert, and hear her inspiring journey towards holistic living.
• Explore the significance of intention in your wellness journey and learn how to infuse it into your daily routine.
• Cami Sophia shares practical tips and strategies for crafting a personalized wellness routine that aligns with your goals and values.
• Dive into the world of mindfulness, meditation, and self-care practices that can elevate your overall well-being.
• Gain insights into the role of nutrition, fitness, and self-compassion in maintaining a balanced and purposeful life.

Whether you're just starting your wellness journey or looking to enhance your existing routine, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration to help you thrive. Join us on this enlightening conversation with Cami Sophia and embark on your path to intentional wellness.

For more incredible insights and resources, visit Cami Sophia's + follow her on https://www.instagram.com/camisophiaaaaa/?hl=en.

🎧 Tune in now and start crafting a wellness routine that truly serves your mind, body, and soul.

Balanced hormones can have a positive impact on your overall well-being, and they can make you feel:

1. Stable Mood: Balanced hormones often result in a more stable and positive mood. You may experience fewer mood swings, reduced irritability, and a general sense of emotional well-being.

2. Energy and Vitality: Hormonal balance can lead to increased energy levels and vitality. You may feel more motivated, alert, and capable of handling daily tasks and challenges.

3. Better Sleep: Balanced hormones can improve the quality of your sleep. You may find it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling refreshed.

4. Healthy Libido: Hormonal balance is often associated with a healthy sex drive (libido). You may experience improved sexual desire and performance.

5. Healthy Skin: Hormonal balance can lead to clearer and healthier skin. Skin issues like acne may improve, and your complexion may look more radiant.

6. Stable Weight: Hormonal balance can support weight management. You may find it easier to maintain a healthy weight FOR YOU. This is so individual!

7. Regular Menstrual Cycles (for Women): In women, balanced hormones can result in regular and less painful menstrual cycles. It can also reduce the severity of premenstrual symptoms.

8. Improved Cognitive Function: Hormonal balance may enhance cognitive function, including better concentration, memory, and mental clarity.

9. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Hormones play a role in regulating stress and anxiety levels. Balanced hormones can lead to a greater sense of calm and reduced anxiety.

10. Better Muscle and Bone Health: Balanced hormones can support muscle strength and bone density, which is particularly important as you age.

NOTE: It's important to note that the specific effects of balanced hormones can vary from person to person, as individual hormone levels and needs differ. Achieving hormonal balance often requires addressing underlying health issues and may involve lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, or medical interventions. If you suspect you have a hormonal imbalance, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance. This is not medical advice.

Certainly, here are the show notes with the addition of research studies:

Review of Bovine Colostrum:

Let's begin by delving into what bovine colostrum (BC) is all about:

Bovine colostrum is the initial milk produced immediately after birth, brimming with essential macro- and micro-nutrients, immunoglobulins, and peptides boasting antimicrobial properties and growth factors.

Now, let's explore the potential advantages:

1. Immune Support: Colostrum is abundant in immunoglobulins, particularly IgG, IgM, and IgA, which can fortify the immune system. Additionally, it contains lactoferrin, lysozyme, and other immune components that might aid in enhancing immunity.

2. Gut Health: Colostrum is said to assist in maintaining a healthy gut lining. Its growth factors could contribute to the repair of damaged intestinal tissue and play a role in preserving gut permeability.

3. Nutritional Content: Bovine colostrum is replete with proteins, vitamins, and minerals that can contribute to overall nutrition.

4. Growth Factors: It encompasses various growth factors such as insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2), transforming growth factors (TGF-alpha and TGF-beta), and epithelial growth factor (EGF), potentially promoting tissue growth and healing.

5. Antimicrobial Properties: The presence of lactoferrin, lysozyme, and immunoglobulins in colostrum imparts antimicrobial properties, which may combat harmful bacteria and viruses.

6. Athletic Performance and Recovery: Some athletes turn to colostrum supplements with the belief that it aids in recovery and enhances performance, although scientific evidence in this area is still evolving.

7. Anti-inflammatory: Colostrum has been suggested to possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially benefiting conditions involving inflammation.

8. May reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections: Studies have indicated that athletes who consumed colostrum had fewer instances of upper respiratory infections compared to those who received a placebo.

So, what does the research reveal?

• Processing and Heat Treatment: Processing and heat treatment, necessary for safety, can diminish the bioactive composition and the inhibitory and immunomodulatory capabilities of colostrum.

• Rich in Bioactive Components: Bovine colostrum is notably rich in biologically active peptides, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and growth-promoting factors, distinguishing it from mature milk.

• Intestinal Permeability Study: One study involving 12 athletes vulnerable to intestinal permeability due to intense exercise found that daily consumption of 20 grams of bovine colostrum prevented 80% of the increase in intestinal permeability experienced by those who received a placebo. (Reference: Trusted Source)

• Saliva IgA Antibodies Study: In a 12-week study with 35 adult distance runners, taking a daily bovine colostrum supplement increased saliva IgA antibodies by 79% compared to baseline levels. (Reference: Trusted Source)

It's important to keep in mind that bovine colostrum supplements and powders can be relatively costly, ranging from $50 to $100 per 16 ounces (450 grams), with a typical daily dosage of half a teaspoon (1.5 grams). Additionally, the composition of bovine colostrum may vary depending on how the cows are raised, potentially containing antibiotics, pesticides, or synthetic hormones.

Welcome back to the Period Chats Podcast - today we are going to be exploring vitamins and minerals that are important for hormone balance!

• Vitamin D

• Scientific Explanation: Vitamin D can influence the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone, two primary female sex hormones. Adequate levels of vitamin D are associated with improved fertility and a reduced risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Moreover, vitamin D receptors are found in various body tissues, indicating its role in overall hormonal balance.

• Food Examples: Fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, and sardines), fortified dairy and non-dairy products, egg yolks, and beef liver.

• B Vitamins (especially B6, B9, and B12)

• Scientific Explanation: B vitamins play a pivotal role in hormone production and balance. Vitamin B6, for instance, is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can influence mood and menstrual cycle regulation. Vitamin B9 (folate) is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and vitamin B12 supports nerve function and energy production.

• Food Examples: Whole grains, legumes, eggs, meat, leafy green vegetables, bananas, and fortified cereals.

• Iron

• Scientific Explanation: Iron is essential for the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone. It also helps in the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. For menstruating women, adequate iron intake is especially important to compensate for blood loss during periods.

• Food Examples: Red meat, poultry, seafood, lentils, beans, tofu, spinach, fortified cereals, and pumpkin seeds.

• Magnesium

• Scientific Explanation: Magnesium supports the enzymatic reactions involved in hormone synthesis. It can also help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as bloating, insomnia, and mood swings, by promoting muscle relaxation and improving mood-regulating neurotransmitter function.

• Food Examples: Leafy green vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale), nuts, seeds (especially pumpkin seeds), whole grains, and dark chocolate.

• Zinc

• Scientific Explanation: Zinc plays a role in the production and release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation). It's also involved in the synthesis of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Furthermore, zinc has antioxidant properties, helping protect cells from damage.

• Food Examples: Oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, whole grains, dairy products, and fortified cereals.

In this episode, Dr. Jess is back!! Dr. Jess is a naturopathic doctor in Ontario, who is going to help us zoom in to the topic of vaginal health in warm weather from a holistic approach.

We’ll address some listener questions about reproductive and vulval/vaginal health, and chat about how the products we use and the weather outside can affect our skin and hormones. Our most-asked question was: “What does someone need to do to keep everything clean in the summer?” First, Dr. Jess helps us deep dive into the products we’re using, so we can know how to avoid toxins and pH-altering ingredients. Some common problematic ingredients in lotions, wipes and lubes are glycerin (which can cause yeast overgrowth), chemical fragrances (which may damage the vaginal mucosa), parabens, and other endocrine disruptors (which can mess with out hormone levels). “Less is more” when it comes to taking care of our vulvas. Past marketing gimmicks like douching are not helpful or necessary, and the labia minora usually only need to be washed with water. Vaginal deodorants are very, very rarely needed for anyone. Warmer weather can lead to more showers, more shaving, and more wipes, so Dr. Jess suggests that this might be one of the reasons some people see eczema, dermatitis and other irritation on their skin in sensitive areas during the hotter months. We also talk about how to be intentional around our clothing. Organic cotton underwear is usually a healthier choice than sporting spandex, lacy undies and super tight shorts non-stop. Plus, swapping out wet swimsuit bottoms for something dry as soon as you can may help reduce your change of yeast infection. Another question that came in was: “Can you get sunburnt in that area, and what should you do to avoid that?” Dr. Jess teaches us that for those of us removing hair, we do need to keep in mind that the skin is thinner there, and way more sensitive than other skin. So make sure you look for a natural sunscreen (they’re usually zinc-oxide based), and don’t over-do it with the sun exposure between 10 am and 2 pm. Finally, we look at this question: “When do I need to go to the doctor, and when is it ok to self-diagnose?” Research shows that candida albicans (a common yeast) is growing a resistance to over-the-counter anti-yeast treatments, and that around 75% of people who self-conclude they’re dealing primarily with a yeast infection are incorrect. So, Dr. Jess recommends reaching out to a practitioner that you can trust whenever that’s possible.

Connect with Dr. Jess:

IG --> @drjessnd

Website --> https://jessicanazareth.com/

Episode Summary: Learn about Katie Diasti's inspiring journey as the founder of Viv For You V, a company revolutionizing the period care industry. Discover the meticulous research and development process behind their highly absorbable organic cotton tampons. Explore Katie's commitment to continuous product improvement and raising the bar in sustainable period products. Gain insights into the lack of menstrual health education in society and how Viv is filling that gap through educational content. Dive into the shared experiences and passion of Katie and the podcast hosts, including their first periods, product confusion, and navigating social situations. Join us in celebrating the growth, learning, and community-building inherent in building something from scratch.

Keywords: period care industry, owning a company, sustainability, toxin-free products, brand building, material selection, plastic waste reduction, FDA interactions, absorbable organic cotton tampons, sustainable period products, menstrual health education, educational content, shared experiences, growth, learning, community-building.

Podcast Guest: Katie Diasti, Founder of Viv For You V

Connect with Katie:

• Instagram and TikTok: @VivforyourV
• Website: VivforyourV.com

Description: In this episode of the Period Chats podcast, Board-certified Toxicologist Dr. Yvonne Burkart shares her expertise on hazardous chemicals that may be present in period products, underwear, water, and other everyday items. Learn how to protect yourself from endocrine disruptors and toxins, and what common chemicals to avoid. Discover practical tips for lowering your exposure and buying safer products, such as applicator-free organic tampons, medical-grade silicone menstrual cups, and PFAS-free period underwear. Follow Dr. Burkart on Twitter and Instagram, sign up for her Low-Tox Tuesdays emails, and check out the undies she recommends at GetCares.com. Visit her website, thetoxicologymama.com, for more information.

Links:

Follow Dr. Burkart on Twitter and Insta: @dryvonneburkart

Sign up for her Low-Tox Tuesdays emails here: https://safeingredientacademy.com/email

Check out the undies she mentioned: GetCares.com

Learn more from her website: thetoxicologymama.com

Important Keywords: hazardous chemicals, period products, endocrine disruptors, toxins, common chemicals, avoid, lower exposure, safer products, organic tampons, menstrual cups, period underwear, PFAS-free, Twitter, Instagram, Low-Tox Tuesdays, undies, GetCares.com, website, thetoxicologymama.com

Lindley is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Nutrition Specialist, and holds a Masters in nutrition and integrative health where she trained in functional and integrative nutrition.

Lindley also volunteers with the Fibroid Foundation, an amazing resource for women’s health education.

We discuss our cyclical routines and the non-negotiable habits each of us have implemented in our daily lives to cultivate health.

We touch on: staying hydrated (especially in the late luteal phase and early days of menstruation), getting rest, switching to warmer cooked food near the cycle as opposed to eating raw foods during the other phases, proper seed cycling, utilizing magnesium baths, and using only pH-balanced lubes.

Lindley has also studied environmental policy in depth, and has a holistic understanding of the macro effects of food regulation. So, we chat about the differences between European food regulation rules and those in the U.S. and discuss how dyes, additives, warning labels and overall quality of food products differ.

On this very insightful episode, Lindley shares her personal experience with uterine fibroids. She had two fibroid surgeries after being diagnosed at age 17 through MRI. Her main symptoms before the diagnosis were periods that were too heavy and lasting too long, with clotting and then eventually having some visible shape changes in her lower abdomen.

A uterine fibroid is a benign muscular growth within or on the uterus. Some smaller fibroids (which are pretty common) can be asymptomatic. Larger fibroids, or clusters of fibroids, can cause changes in discharge, digestive complications, pain and increased bleeding.

We’ll learn what types of lifestyle changes and treatment options may help reduce symptoms and even lower recurrences of fibroids. Lindley mentions new research that suggests ECGC (an extract of green tea) may shrink fibroids, and that vitamin D deficiency is being studied as well. She also teaches us how hormonal imbalance may contribute to fibroids.

We also talk about fibroids and fertility, and when C-sections might come in to the picture.

The end of this podcast has such a hopeful tone as we touch on the myriad of informed treatment choices that are available for fibroids, give a shout out to our awesome support systems, and even hear how Kamala Harris is championing legislation that will further fibroid awareness and research.

Learn more about Lindley and Dr. Lana’s practice at:

www.DrLanaWellness.com

March is all about ovulation, fertility and hormones on the Period Chats podcast!

Today we get to hear from Women’s Health Acupuncturist Dr. Dawn Garrison, who is a wealth of knowledge about supporting the body to heal.

Fertility is a state of vitality, so even if you’re not trying to get pregnant there is plenty to glean from this episode.

My personal experience with acupuncture has been positive and healing, so I’m excited for you to hear about how it works. Dr. Dawn dispels some myths about acupuncture, including the idea that they have to use tons of needles (she usually uses 10-12 super thin ones that people mostly don’t feel).

She also explains how acupuncture is cumulative, and how her plan of care for her patients builds on itself and includes many facets.

We chat about the meridians and chi, and how these ancient concepts have helped countless people find relief from severe period pain, get rid of migraines, get pregnant and more.

Dr. Dawn explains how western and eastern medicine approach health differently, and how the approach of acupuncture looks at the “12 “rivers” of our bodies and stimulates points along the flow.

And in case you’re someone who’s skeptical, we talk about the plethora of research behind the modalities used in acupuncture, and how many pain clinics and mainstream fertility clinics now refer patients out to trusted acupuncturists, with great results.

Studies show that acupuncture supports the body’s endocrine system, releases beta endorphins, de-swells nerves that are aggravated, and can help people move from operating in the sympathetic nervous system to parasympathetic.

Dr. Dawn also shares about her in-depth experience of learning Chinese herbal medicines, and how the board tests for an acupuncture license are no joke!

I know you’ll learn a ton from this conversation about fertility, vitality and acupuncture.

Connect with Dawn on Instagram: @DrDawnGarrison

Learn more from her site: www.drdawngarrison.com

Do you ever feel like you have to push your body past what it wants to do, or ignore symptoms to get through? Do you feel burnt out, anxious or exhausted?

We all know what it’s like to wish we didn’t have limits, but today on the Period Chats podcast, we’re chatting with a coach who helps people reconcile their relationship with their bodies in order to thrive within their human capacity. I’m so excited for you to learn from all of the wisdom and insight that my guest shares on this episode.

Alison Acerra MS, RDN has been a functional and integrative registered dietician-nutritionist for almost 20 years. She founded her consulting and coaching agency, Strategic Nutrition Design, to help brands develop high quality health products and individuals balance their nutrition.

Her one-on-one consulting focuses on hormone health, gut flora and restoring energy levels, and she loves working with women in all phases of the life cycle, helping them restore balance so they can live the life they love.

We can get so busy in life that we ignore our bodies when they begin to tell us they need something. In this episode, Alison shares how she’s learned to tune in to her body and support it, practicing cyclical self-care and holistic nutrition. These practices helped her recover and rebuild after some serious health issues, so don’t be afraid to feel a little hope if you’re experiencing a health setback in this season.

Alison had to adjust her relationship to movement, food, and her schedule in order to support her body’s recovery. We talk about why that’s hard to do, how society doesn’t teach us to heal intuitively, and how to reconnect with our whole selves.

Alison also describes her use of Internal Family Systems theory to get in touch with her own needs, and the benefits of this method in her healing process.

We chat about rest, routines, lifestyle, and intuitive eating during different parts of our cycle, and Alison shares some of her more recent scheduling and eating practices now that she’s recovered.

Today’s episode of the Period Chats podcast is all about matching your pleasure with your menstrual cycle.

We’re chatting with Blaire Horton from Holistic Rendezvous, who is a certified Nutrition Educator, certified Natural Chef, and a Holistic Nutrition Consultant.

Blaire shares insights on the effects of hormone level changes on our libido and pleasure.

Many people struggle with the topic of pleasure in general, and it may be the case that we don’t take the time to explore the interplay between our moods, interest in sex, and needs in general with our menstrual cycles.

This episode will give you tips on a myriad of ways you can find pleasure in each phase of your cycle, so you can work with your natural rhythms instead of being eluded or even frustrated by them.

And, it will help shatter whatever taboos may be present for you around the topics of libido, the menstrual cycle, pleasure, and sex.

Blaire explains that the follicular phase is like spring and tends to make us more adventurous. Ovulation usually increases sex drive as well as self esteem in general, so we brainstorm how to channel that to our advantage.

The early luteal phase is sometimes known as the “romantic” phase, so we talk about what interpersonal interactions look like during that week.

Then in the later luteal phase many of us transition into nesting and organizing. Many people get more introverted, and some of us have more negative self-talk compared to other phases, so we share tips for how to get rest and good nutrition during that part of the cycle.

We also talk a lot about what self-care looks like, and how it may change throughout the menstrual cycle as well.

The main point is that pleasure is personal. It doesn’t necessarily mean sex with a partner, or anything sexual at all. It’s what feels good to you. We hope everyone can have a pleasure routine because it’s an important part of empowerment in our lives.

Connect with Blaire:

www.holisticrendezvous.com

Welcome back to the Period Chats podcast. I’m so excited about today’s guest, Talia Bennick!

Talia is the founder of Crisp and Crude, a non-alcoholic botanical mock-tails brand. Her amazing drinks are filled with mood-lifting ingredients that also taste delicious, and look chic.

Talia went to business school at Yale, where alcohol was a common part of networking and social events. But during her last semester, she began to suffer from alcohol-related migraines.

So she started experimenting mixing hemp extract with terpenes, and began to her inventive non-alcoholic drinks with friends. It proved to be a hit.

Many of her mock-tails are also CBD-infused, so instead of wreaking havoc on alcohol-intolerant or sensitive systems, these drinks can actually support better health.

Her drinks went to production this past August, and they’ve been a fun new part of my personal journey since then.

We all have different, nuanced relationships with alcohol, and this can evolve throughout our adult years. Many can mindfully consume, and we talk about what that can look like, but many others abstain for various reasons.

Personally, I’ve moved from having a party girl mentality to a greater understanding of my hormones and desire to optimize my health naturally. So I’ve been experimenting with abstaining from alcohol for the past 12 weeks, and plan to continue for the next 12 months.

I still plan to hang out with friends and go out, but alcohol causes my anxiety to spike for way too long. So we discuss how to cope with social settings when you’re planning to abstain from drinking, about the pro’s and con’s of sharing our reasons for not drinking, and share some of the reactions we’ve gotten from people over the years.

Talia also gives us some good tips on non-alcoholic drinks to order at a bar, to equip us to always feel confident that we fit in and belong.

If you want to explore syncing your life with your cycle more intentionally in this area, Talia and I geek out on how to do just that. We discuss the interaction of alcohol with our hormones and brain chemicals, and how liver function comes into play.

Talia shares her insight on the advantages of planning some of our personal goals and schedules around our cycles, as well as just our alcohol consumption.

Your body can process alcohol more efficiently during the follicular phase (after your period, before ovulation). In the menstrual and luteal phase, you may notice more symptoms after drinking alcohol. This is because estrogen also has to get processed through the liver.

People that drink socially tend to get an initial dopamine release, but later suffer a cortisol rebound effect. Talia’s drinks have different plant extracts and botanical terpene blends that can help us relax, like citrus, marigold, and broad spectrum non-TCH CBD.

I know you’ll love this conversation with the scientific, creative and very cool Talia Bennick.

Check out her drinks at: www.crispandcrude.com. Use code FUNKIT15 to save 15% off your first order! 

Welcome back to the Period Chats Podcast! Today we talk with Madeline Hollern about her experience with egg-freezing.

Madeline is the Executive Director and Brand Ambassador at Austin Monthly, and I had the privilege of meeting her at a Free People Movement event where we struck up a conversation about fertility and egg-freezing.

Madeline has known for a long time that she wants kids. After a recent break-up, she began to look in to the science behind egg-freezing.

Egg-freezing is also known as mature oocyte cryopreservation, and is a method that’s usually used to preserve a person’s ability to become pregnant in the future. Eggs are harvested from the ovaries so they can later be used in the process of in vitro fertilization as needed.

I was interested to hear the details of how Madeline’s journey was emotionally, financially (her health insurance didn’t cover any of it) and physically. She shares that in some of these ways it was taxing, but that she would absolutely do it again.

First, she was tested for her AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) levels, then given an ultrasound, and eventually given the opportunity to sign up when she was ready.

Madeline had a best friend that had just gone through the process, and some chips seemed to be falling in to place, so on 2-22-22 she felt like it was the perfect time to sign up and get started.

People born with eggs have a set amount of them for life. They usually release once a month, and things like being on birth control don’t preserve them. While we can support the health of the eggs we have by nutrition and lifestyle, we can’t add to the specific number our bodies have.

Ever the journalist, Madeline audio recorded the instructions during her visits to make sure she was doing her self-administration correctly. This included shots in the stomach area twice a day. She also went in for blood testing every 3 days and ultrasounds to check the follicles (eggs) which have to be the right size to be used in the freezing process.

Madeline ended up having to go through the preparatory stage twice, because the first time only 2 retrievable eggs were visible in the ultrasounds.

The second attempt included pre-treating with estrogen, and the day of the procedure they ended up with 8 eggs.

In this episode, we also touch on the topics of bedside manner, the importance of having community and support, and the dedication and schedule diligence it takes to keep up with having your eggs frozen.

Madeline shares that she now has more peace of mind knowing she has more options for the future.

I’m super thankful for this educational and inspiring conversation!

Make sure to follow Madeline on Instagram: @madelinehollern

Hi everyone! Welcome back to the Period Chats Podcast. Today we’re talking with Jessica Nazareth, a holistic sex coach who is also in training to become a naturopathic doctor.

Today’s topic is vaginal health, and Jess is literally the perfect expert to enlighten us about this important aspect of wellness. She started her undergrad in health sciences, and soon delved into holistic medicine.

Jess grew up familiar with nutrition and traditional Chinese medicine because her family of origin utilized its principles in their own lives.

So when she was diagnosed with PCOS, she found these practices helpful in balancing her own hormones and successfully managing the condition.

Jess has been studying biomedical sciences in Toronto, and her passion for sharing her extensive knowledge, empowering others and treating each individual from the root cause is so refreshing.

Her focus on reproductive health and vaginal and sexual wellness has led her to develop her own courses on the topics. As we all know, sex ed sucked. And on top of that, many medical and health care professionals still lack training in vaginal and sexual wellness.

Jessica and I believe that holistic and naturopathic medicine can contribute some much-needed insight and wisdom to the medical field, and all of our wellness journeys.

One thing that has slowed down awareness about - and love for - our bodies is the shame that society has historically placed on the topics of vaginal health and sexual wellness.

At one point Lysol was even recommended to people with vaginas to use in order to prevent their partner from leaving them (excuse me?!?) and, also problematically, to change natural bodily odor with its ammonium hydroxide and synthetic fragrance. Yikes.

But in the Period Chats community, we know that vaginal health includes our own natural self-cleaning eco-system, and that the vulva even changes and evolves because of time, hormones, and other factors.

In preparation for this episode, we got TONS of questions around discharge, mucous, vaginal health, appearance, cyclical changes, and bacterial balance (flora).

Jessica explains the difference between discharge and mucous, and how it all works. Plus she addresses the existence of “cross talk” with our blood stream (very cool).

We touch on allergies and immune considerations, and how chemicals can be easily absorbed through the skin in this area.

We also address questions about menstrual cups, the over-marketing of wipes, and reconsidering some habits and routines to support our bodies.

Moral of the story: our vaginas aren’t flawed, they have reasons for everything they do, and we can celebrate our awesome bodies.

I can’t wait to have Jess back on another episode soon; she is a wealth of fascinating and helpful info.

Check out Jess’s free resource about mindset and pleasure:

jessicanazareth.com/the-pleasure-mindset-guide/

Follow her on instagram: @jessicaanazareth

On today’s episode of the Period Chats Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Amanda Olson! Amanda is a dedicated physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor disorders including pelvic pain, incontinence and pregnancy related issues, as well as the cofounder of the Intimate Rose product line.

Amanda finished her doctorate degree in physical therapy and then found herself severely injured from a bad cliff jumping incident. With injuries on her pelvic floor, hips, back and more, she experienced relief from PT, and now she’s been focusing on pelvic floor PT for 14 years and counting.

One in three vagina owners will struggle with pelvic floor issues, so it’s very common. And people with penises can experience pelvic floor dysfunction as well, because certain cancers, traumas or injuries can effect the muscular structure.

So what exactly is the pelvic floor? It’s a group of muscles that support certain organs, for example someone’s bladder, uterus, vagina and rectum. These muscles form a sling at the very base of your pelvis, and also include tendons, nerves, blood vessels and fascia. When they’re functioning well, they relax at appropriate times, and close and contract at other times.

This complex group of muscles needs to be strong, but also well-coordinated and flexible. Unfortunately, life can sometimes throw this coordination off. For example: giving birth, trauma, stress, injuries, accidents, and disease processes like that of endometriosis.

And when the coordination is thrown off, occupational therapy can really help retrain this muscle group and alleviate a myriad of issues.

Amanda and I talk about common misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy, what healthy goals might look like for someone who is experiencing pelvic floor pain, what health insurance plans typically do for this type of treatment, and a pretty huge list of conditions it can help.

Amanda also gives us some examples of what sessions at her clinic often look like, which may put some of us who are considering it at ease.

I was so grateful to have this conversation with Amanda and hear about more ways that our community can take care of ourselves, and nurture health and healing in our bodies.

Make sure you give Amanda a follow on Insta: @AaolsonDPT

And check out her company here:

www.IntimateRose.com

Facebook, Instagram and TikTok: Intimate Rose

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains topics that may be triggering including sexual assault

Welcome back to the Period Chats Podcast!

Today we’re talking about all things relationships, sex, and being a cyclical person.

Our guest is my friend Catherine Drysdale, a sex and relationship coach who teaches about pleasure, intimacy, communication, and enhancing love.

Catherine explains her journey with PCOS, pain, being mis-diagnosed for years, taking progesterone-based birth control, having IUD struggles, and finally getting her hormones tested (her progesterone and testosterone were high). She’s been off birth control for 8 years and managing her symptoms successfully through diet, proper exercise for her body, and seed cycling.

We also talk about sex education reform, and how people’s views on sex are shaped by their early education. Many states don’t even require sex ed to be medically accurate, and a lot of education curriculum and videos are basically abstinence-based scare tactics. It’s so inspiring to hear how Catherine is working to change this, and her passion for implementing more emotionally intelligent and well-rounded education for kids.

We also talk about the journey of learning to be more present during sexual experiences, creating good communication with our partners, and taking the time to heal from the past.

She explains the spectrum of “consensual” and what it takes to cultivate fully consensual relationships. And, she shares where to begin to heal if you’ve had experiences that were not fully consensual.

Catherine shares about the sexual assault she experienced in her college years, how it felt to be invalidated while taking the right steps to report the crime (even with physical proof, and arrest and detainment of her abusers, her school denied the fact that it was rape), and what has helped her heal from the trauma and depression that resulted after this injustice.

I’m so inspired and amazed as I look at Catherine’s journey and how even the shitty experiences we have to work through can become part of how we help the world, use our voices, and let others know that what they feel is real and right.

Read the Vice article:

https://www.vice.com/en/article/z34gj5/sexual-tension-relationships-desire-mutual

Follow Catherine on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamcatherinedrysdale

Welcome back to the Period Chats Podcast!

Today we get to hear from Sandi Kronick, the CEO of Happy Dirt.

Based in Durham, Happy Dirt is an organic wholesale and distribution company. Ever since Sandi started it in 2004, they’ve been supporting local farmers who grow organic food. They do this by building up infrastructures like trucking and marketing, so that farmers can focus on their soil, and crops, and build a future for themselves and their families.

So many questions have come my way about organic food, so today you’ve come to the right place; we’re about to learn SO MUCH from Sandi.

The term “Organic” is legally regulated through the federal government. In the food and agriculture space, this single word means that a farm is adhering to hundred of pages of regulatory work that includes disallowing most synthetic products, as well as disallowed non-synthetic products in growing their crops (they still may use natural pesticides like garlic).

The National Organic Standards Board oversees this and shows zero tolerance for things like harmful conventional pesticides and GMO’s, so consumers can rest assured that organic food has been through the relevant inspections. They also have a commitment to wholistic practices like crop rotation.

Some people think that organic and conventional foods are the same, and that the label is kinda BS… and maybe cheaper price motivates this convenient belief! I used to be one of those people - but it turns out I felt better when I switched to organic, and it also turns out there’s science behind why.

Our bodies don’t process certain synthetic pesticides well. Plus, many of the conventional pesticides that farmers are allowed to use in the U.S. can kill our off our gut microbiomes.

We all know Preventative health is more efficient and less stressful than having to treat illnesses that could have been prevented upstream. So, as more and more data accumulates on the matter, a growing number of doctors believe that eating organic is a worthwhile preventative health measure.

We talk about how Sandi’s company contributes to the world of organics, cares about maintaining consumer trust, and ensures that the principles of organic farming stay intact.

We also talk about regenerative farming, which is a different but related thing to organic farming, and how some farms are doing both. Currently, there isn’t a certification program for regenerative farming, or a set definition yet, but that may be coming soon.

Sandi reminds us why it’s important to go to our local farmer’s markets, and how not everyone there is an organic farmer but they’re all still heroes. She suggests some questions might be helpful to ask while there. Most states have an umbrella non-profit that connects citizens to farmers and farmers markets, so make sure you check for your state’s local food finder.

I LOVED hearing about all the work that goes into organic food, and I know we’ll all feel more connected to our food and our bodies after this episode!

Learn More Happy Dirt’s https://happydirt.com/

On this episode of the Period Chats Podcast, documentary film maker Shelby Hadden joins us to talk about her wildly wonderful, impactful documentary: Tightly Wound.

Based on an essay she published in Bust Magazine, the animated short film chronicles her experiences with vaginismus and pelvic floor pain.

After a kickstarter shout-out in Cosmo, an article in Media Wire and much more, the film has 4 million views and has been all over the world.

Shelby and I talk about how sharing your story publicly can be so many different things. It can be freeing and liberating to share, super helpful to others to hear, and a powerful influence on culture - but it can simultaneously be intimidating and unpredictable to post your life’s details on the internet.

She explains that creating the film was a coming out type of experience for her, because there were many family members and friends who still didn’t know about her health journey.

Shelby shares how she couldn’t use a tampon as an adolescent, but didn’t find pelvic floor physical therapy (the treatment that has helped her the most) until age 21.

She then found herself at the forefront of a decade-long rise in awareness on the topic, in a culture that’s moving from young women like her taking 7 years plus to get an accurate diagnosis, to an internet-connected world where pelvic floor physical therapists are posting on Tik Tok and Instagram helping people learn the basics about the disorder.

Shelby tells us what the process looked like to create the film, and what her network, team and community looked like during the process.

It’s so beautiful that people with vaginismus and other pelvic floor issues can now point to this well-made film and say to their family, friends, or potential romantic partners, “This is what I have.”

Insurance doesn’t always cover pelvic floor therapy, and there are different rules in different states about referrals and the number of sessions that may get approved, but Shelby leaves us with this wise advice: don’t give up finding the great treatment that you deserve.

We talk about other treatments such as Botox, which some people have had results with for vaginismus, and of course a good therapist should be part of your team as well.

I’m thankful for this conversation and for a chance to disarm the shame and secrecy some people feel in their experiences. Whatever your hopes are with regards to pelvic floor dysfunction of any kind, they are completely valid; none of those things are wrong to want and feel, so don’t give up fighting for your desires and goals.

Read Shelby’s article:

https://bust.com/sex/18462-vaginismus-essay.html

Check out the film:

https://www.tightlywoundfilm.com