Episode Summary

Why do so many women feel dismissed in healthcare — even when they see good doctors? The problem isn’t always the people — it’s the cultural stories we’ve told about what “matters.”

Inspired by sports journalist Kate Fagan’s TED Radio Hour insight on women’s sports, Georgie draws a powerful parallel to women’s health: when we don’t tell clear stories or define the stakes, we leave research gaps, funding gaps, and entire conditions misunderstood.

In just 10 minutes, you’ll hear:

Episode Summary

Celiac disease is often dismissed as just a gluten issue — but for millions, the reality is far more complex.

In this episode, Fempower Health breaks down two new studies showing:

If you’ve struggled with gut issues, chronic symptoms, or frustrating medical visits, this is for you.

Listen...

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, we unpack one of the most important shifts happening in gynecology that few patients know about: salpingectomy—the removal of the fallopian tubes—is replacing tubal ligation in many cases as a way to reduce ovarian cancer risk.

Research has shown that most ovarian cancers actually begin in the fallopian tubes, not the ovaries. But outdated coding, confusing consent processes, and insurance issues have made this simple, evidence-based cancer prevention tool harder for women to access—or even understand.

This 10-minute episode breaks it all do...

Episode Summary: Breast Cancer Prevention Just Took Two Big Steps Forward

In this short but powerful episode, Georgie breaks down two groundbreaking developments in breast cancer prevention that could reshape how we think about screening, menopause care, and early intervention:

1️⃣ An FDA-authorized AI tool—Clairity Breast—that predicts a woman’s five-year breast cancer risk from a standard mammogram, even when it appears normal.

2️⃣ A menopause drug, Duavee, that may help prevent invasive breast cancer in women with a history of high-risk lesions like DCIS.

These tools aren’t just high-tech—they’re practical, ac...

Episode Overview

In this episode, I take a closer look at compounded medications—what they are, when they’re used, and the important nuances behind their growing popularity.

From hormone therapy and menopause care to semaglutide and GLP-1s, compounded meds are often described as personalized solutions. But these treatments exist in a regulatory gray area, with real variability in quality, safety, and effectiveness.

This episode is about cutting through confusion—without judgment or hype—and offering context to help you better understand your options.

What You’ll Learn

What Every Patient and Clinician Should Know About the 2025 Guidelines for IUD Insertion Pain Management

For years, patients have reported severe pain during IUD insertions—only to be told it's "just a pinch." Now, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued updated guidance that changes everything.

This episode breaks down what’s in the new guidelines, why it matters, and what’s still standing in the way of better care.

What We Cover in This Episode

Episode Overview:

You’ve heard of the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system. But what about the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—the one that helps regulate all of them?

In this episode, Georgie breaks down one of the most overlooked systems in human biology. Discovered through cannabis research but far more than a cannabis issue, the ECS plays a critical role in maintaining balance across mood, metabolism, hormones, inflammation, pain, and immune response.

So why isn’t it taught in medical school? And how is that omission impacting the care we receive—e...

🎧 Episode Summary:

Over 50% of women with chronic vaginal pain considered giving up on care altogether, according to a new JAMA Network Open study co-authored by Drs. Jill Krapf and Chailee Moss. In this episode, Georgie breaks down the findings, explores why this kind of dismissal is so common in women’s health, and explains how communication—not just diagnosis—can make or break care.

If you’ve ever been told “everything looks normal” when you were in pain, this episode is for you.

🔍 What's Covered:

Episode Overview

In this episode of Fempower Health, we break down one of the most common—and misunderstood—conditions women face after menopause: Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).

Often referred to by symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful sex, burning with urination, or frequent UTIs, GSM affects nearly half of postmenopausal women. Yet many women are never told it has a name—let alone that it’s treatable.

We’re unpacking what the new 2025 GSM guidelines reveal, and why they mark a turning point in how clinicians should diagnose and treat this condition.

What You’ll...

Adenomyosis is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in women’s health. It causes heavy periods, chronic cramping, and fertility challenges—yet many women are told their pain is normal or misdiagnosed with endometriosis alone.

In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, I share key points that Dr. Ken Sinervo, Medical Director at the Center for Endometriosis Care, shared in our recent interview. The episode breaks down the science behind adenomyosis, why it’s so often missed, and what every woman deserves to know about diagnosis and treatment.

Read the article on adenomyosis in the Fem...

Uterine Fibroids: What You’re Not Being Told About Your Treatment Options

Uterine fibroids affect up to 80% of women by age 50, yet most are not given the full range of treatment options. In this episode, I speak with leading fibroid experts—including minimally invasive surgeons, interventional radiologists, and advocates—to unpack the medical, financial, and structural reasons why hysterectomy is so often pushed as the default solution.

Whether you’re trying to preserve fertility, manage chronic pain, or simply want to know what questions to ask at your next appointment, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Wh...

Did you know that many women undergo hysterectomies without fully understanding their options?

Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed on women—but too often, patients aren’t given the full picture. From what should (and shouldn’t) be removed to the long-term effects on hormone balance and pelvic health, the lack of informed consent has lifelong consequences.

In this episode, we break down:

Join Georgie in this heartfelt episode as she reflects on the evolution of Fempower Health, the trusted resource for women and clinicians navigating complex health topics. Discover how community feedback will shape the future of this empowering platform.

Episode Summary

In this special episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie shares a heartfelt update about the evolution of the podcast and her decision to take a pause. Reflecting on her journey as a problem solver and advocate for women’s health, Georgie highlights the impact of connecting listeners with hard-to-find experts and providing credible, actionable information.

Join globally recognized expert Dr. Ken Sinervo, Medical Director of the Center for Endometriosis Care, as he discusses adenomyosis, its symptoms, impact on fertility, and treatment options. With decades of experience in advanced laparoendoscopic surgery and multidisciplinary care, Dr. Sinervo offers invaluable insights for patients and clinicians. Listen now to learn how to improve diagnosis and navigate treatment effectively.

Adenomyosis Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we explore adenomyosis, a condition that affects millions of women but remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Dr. Ken Sinervo, a renowned gynecologic surgeon and the Medical Director at...

Explore ADHD's impact on family dynamics with Dr. Tamara Rosier. Discover expert insights on ADHD emotional regulation, communication, and managing family relationships. Tune in to Fempower Health for ADHD strategies tailored for women and clinicians supporting ADHD patients.

How Does ADHD Affect Family Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs welcomes back ADHD expert Dr. Tamara Rosier to delve into the often-overlooked topic of ADHD and family dynamics. Dr. Rosier, a renowned ADHD coach and author of Your Brain's Not Broken and You, Me, and Our ADHD Family: Practical Steps to Cultivate He...

Scoliosis and Pelvic Health Episode Summary

In this episode of the Fempower Health Podcast, Georgie Kovacs speaks with Katalin Kapoor, a physical therapist specializing in scoliosis, kyphosis, and pelvic floor health. With over 25 years of experience, Katalin brings unique insights into how conditions like scoliosis can have a profound effect on women’s pelvic health, often in unexpected ways. From managing pelvic floor dysfunction to understanding the importance of postural alignment, Katalin’s expertise provides much-needed clarity on issues many women face but rarely get answers to. Whether you’re dealing with pelvic pain, incontinence, or postural issues...

In this powerful episode, we unpack the critical discussion from HLTH 2024 featuring Dr. Chelsea Clinton, Jennifer Klein from the Gender Policy Council, and health equity advocate Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell. The conversation sheds light on the urgent state of reproductive justice, maternal and infant mortality rates, the impact of abortion bans, and the importance of voting at every level of government to protect and advance women's health rights.

Key Discussion Points:

Join Georgie Kovacs and physical therapist Alyson Lowrey as they discuss the link between hypermobility and chronic pelvic pain. Learn how to recognize symptoms, manage pelvic floor dysfunction, and advocate for better health care. Perfect for women looking for answers and clinicians aiming to provide better patient support.

Pelvic Pain & Hypermobility Episode Summary

In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, Georgie Kovacs sits down with Alyson Lowrey, a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with over 10 years of experience. Alyson shares her personal journey with hypermobility and chronic pelvic pain, as well as her professional expertise...

Explore the connection between chronic pelvic pain and trauma with sex therapist Rachel Zar. Learn about trauma-informed care, interdisciplinary treatments, and how women can advocate for their health in this insightful Fempower Health episode.

Chronic Pelvic Pain and Trauma Episode Summary:

In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs speaks with Rachel Zar, an AASECT certified sex therapist and Ph.D. in clinical sexology, about the complex relationship between chronic pelvic pain and trauma. Rachel shares her personal and professional insights into how trauma manifests physically and emotionally, particularly in relation to chronic...

Discover how gut health influences hormonal balance in women. In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs interviews microbiome expert Guy Daniels, who explains the connection between the gut microbiome, endometriosis, PCOS, perimenopause, and menopause, offering practical advice on improving both gut and hormonal health.

Gut Health and Women's Hormones Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode, Georgie Kovacs interviews Guy Daniels, an expert in the microbiome and founder of The Microbiome Expert. With years of experience as the Director of Medical Education at Thorne and a deep understanding of the gut microbiome, Guy shares how g...

In this episode of Fempower Health, Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urogynecologist, discusses bladder health, UTI misdiagnoses, and how pelvic floor dysfunction, menopause, and the microbiome impact bladder issues in women. Learn how to advocate for better care and understand your symptoms.

Bladder Health Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we sit down with Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urologist specializing in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (also known as urogynecology). Dr. Lewis shares her expertise on common bladder health issues affecting women, many of which are frequently misdiagnosed as urinary tract...

Discover how menopause can be a time of sexual rediscovery. Dr. Kelly Casperson shares insights on midlife sexuality, debunking myths, and how to navigate changes in desire, intimacy, and sexual health.

Reclaiming Midlife Sexuality Episode Summary

In this empowering episode of *Fempower Health*, we explore the intersection of menopause, sexuality, and personal growth with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a renowned urologist and author of *You Are Not Broken*. As women transition through perimenopause and menopause, sexual health and intimacy can feel challenging. However, Dr. Casperson provides practical insights into how midlife can be a time of...

Discover the rare-ish causes of pain during sex with expert insights from Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya. Learn about the impact of hormonal changes, birth control, vaginal cysts, lichen sclerosus, and effective treatments. Whether you're experiencing painful sex or looking to support patients, this episode offers valuable information on women’s sexual health.

Rare-ish Causes of Pain with Sex Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs is joined by Dr. Alexandra Dubinskaya, a board-certified OB-GYN and urogynecologist specializing in pelvic floor disorders and sexual health. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked causes of...

Originally Released March 1, 2022

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, endometriosis, adenomyosis, and other related conditions with Dr. Dan Martin, Medical and Scientific Director for the Endometriosis Foundation of America. We explore the complexities of diagnosing and treating pelvic pain, the importance of patient advocacy, and the societal normalization of pain in women. Dr. Martin provides valuable insights into the symptoms, challenges, and evolving treatments for conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis, aiming to empower listeners with knowledge and actionable steps for managing their health.

Discussion...

Learn how your pelvic structure, including postures and organ position, might be contributing to pelvic pain and pelvic floor conditions.

Pelvic Structure and Pelvic Pain Relief Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Angie Mueller—a doctor of physical therapy specializing in women's pelvic health—sheds light on how structural changes in the body, particularly the position of the uterus and other pelvic organs, can contribute to chronic pelvic pain. She discusses the significant role of core muscle dysfunction, the impact of diaphragm and breathing, and the benefits of a holistic approach to treatment. 

Wheth...

Originally Published October 25, 2021.

Inspired by an upcoming episode with Dr Prior about perimenopause, specifically, I thought it important to revisit the need to understand the important roles of BOTH estrogen AND progesterone.

We’ve all been told about the powerful effects of estrogen on a woman’s reproductive cycle. But more people are now learning that progesterone is equally as important. With so much research and discussion regarding hormone imbalances in women today, experts confirm that these two female sex hormones are critical to more than just sex and pregnancy— they’re vital to every woman’s he...

Are there ways to find pain relief for endometriosis? Listen as Dr. Allyson Shrikhande shares her expert insights on a whole-person approach to pain management. 

Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs hosts Dr. Allyson Shrikhande, a specialist in pelvic rehabilitation medicine. They explore the important topic of managing pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. 

Dr. Shrikhande discusses the complex symptoms and challenges of diagnosing endometriosis, which often go beyond typical menstrual discomfort and can even affect areas such as bladder function and sexual health. They discuss innovative, non-surgical approaches to pa...

Learn about the pelvic floor after hysterectomy as Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, shares her insights.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, discusses the importance of the pelvic floor in women's health. She sheds light on the pelvic floor, especially in the context of hysterectomy. 

Dr. Wallace talks about managing pelvic floor changes that can occur after a hysterectomy. She discusses the value of comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including strategies for preventing complications like pelvic org...

Listen as Dr. Zoe Rodriguez shares her medical and patient-advocating expertise about life before and after hysterectomy.

Episode Summary

Join Fempower Health as we discuss hysterectomies with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez, the Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. 

In this episode, we address the misconceptions, diverse cultural perspectives, and crucial insights surrounding hysterectomies. We talk about different hysterectomy options, recovery expectations, and the significant impact of surgical choices on women's health. Whether you are considering this procedure or seeking deeper understanding, this discussion o...

Women with pelvic congestion syndrome experience chronic pelvic pain pelvic varicose veins, and more. Learn about this underrecognized condition from Dr. Mari Tassarotti.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Fempower Health, we’re joined by Dr. Mari Tassarotti, an expert in interventional radiology from Columbia University. We discuss the complexities of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS), a condition characterized by chronic pelvic pain arising from varicose veins in the pelvis. 

We explore why Pelvic Congestion Syndrome remains underrecognized and often misdiagnosed. Dr. Tassarotti shares her insights on PCS diagnosis, innovative treatment options, and why see...

How do you know which products and ingredients are safe to use? Are nontoxic ingredients also eco-friendly? In this episode, we interview Amy Ziff, founder of MADE SAFE: the first human health and eco-friendly nontoxic certification program. Amy shares why nontoxic options are so important to health and the planet, where to find affordable chemical free products, and simple ways you can start choosing cleaner options today. 

Amy Ziff is an ingredient expert, healthy living educator, writer, and mother who helps people transform their consumer decisions. The MADE SAFE platform helps you reduce the use of harmful c...

Learn how your vaginal flora and gut microbiome contribute to your reproductive health. Dr. Caroline Mitchell shares her expertise and research on this important but overlooked topic.

Episode Summary

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome. Dr. Caroline Mitchell, distinguished reproductive health researcher and faculty member at the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology at Massachusetts General Hospital, shares her profound insight on why a healthy vaginal microbiome is crucial in women's health. 

With a background in Women’s Studies at Harvard College and groundbreaking resea...

Learn about endometriosis and pelvic health physical therapy to manage chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Caitlyn Tivy shares her experience and expertise to help women find relief.

Episode Summary

In this final episode of Fempower Health's four-part series on endometriosis, Dr. Caitlyn Tivy, a distinguished pelvic health physical therapist, shares the intricacies of managing endometriosis and pelvic pain. With a foundation in biomedical research and specialized training in pelvic floor physical therapy, Dr. Tivy emphasizes the importance of patient involvement, holistic treatment strategies, and the role of emotional health in physical well-being. She highlights innovative developments...

Dr. Shanti Mohling shares the details of endometriosis surgery, recovery, and pelvic floor therapy as important treatment options for patients with this condition.

Episode Summary

In this third episode of Fempower Health's series on endometriosis, Dr. Shanti Mohling, a minimally invasive surgeon, who devotes her clinical activity to patients with pelvic pain and endometriosis, explores the importance of excision surgery, the challenges of diagnosing and treating endometriosis, and strategies for managing its recurrence. She emphasizes the need for early detection, multidisciplinary approaches, and personalized care in improving outcomes for those affected by this complex condition.<...

Katie Boyce shares her expert insights on endometriosis care, treatment options, and the importance of patient advocacy for long-term management.

Details

Episode Summary

In this second episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, we speak with guest Katie Boyce, a Board Certified Patient Advocate with a robust background in biochemistry and astrophysics. We discuss the complexities of endometriosis care from patient and specialist perspectives. We explore the treatment options for endometriosis as well as its causes and the critical importance of specialized care. 

Through Katie's personal journey with endometriosis and...

In this first episode of Fempower Health’s four-part series on endometriosis, Margaret Melville of Lasa Health joins to discuss this underrepresented condition. Margaret transformed her decade-long struggle with endometriosis and celiac disease into a mission to improve women’s healthcare today. She talks about the alarming shortage of OB-GYNs and primary care providers who have specialized training in endometriosis and the importance of early diagnosis of endometriosis to manage this progressive disease. 

We explore common misconceptions and myths about endometriosis, the dangers of false cures, and the importance of patient advocacy and clinician education. We also cover...

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain and debilitating periods. Up to 80% of women may experience fibroids before the age of 50, but this condition remains under-researched and misunderstood. 

In this episode, Tanika Gray Valbrun joins to discuss uterine fibroid facts and share hope for women grappling with this condition. She tells her story, voicing her commitment to raising awareness through her organization, The White Dress Project. 

Tanika leads the conversation about patient-doctor communication, listening to women’s voices, and the importance of community support. We discuss the link between blac...

Listen to Melody Joy Paine discuss finding joy in the midst of pain and grief. Learn from her insights as a filmmaker and advocate for pediatric rare disease patients. 

Episode Details:

In this episode, rare disease advocate Melody Joy Paine speaks about the power of staying present, authentic storytelling, and finding joy amidst life’s deepest pain. Melody is a brilliant filmmaker who helps rare disease patients and their families share their stories. Her dedication to providing a platform that allows her subjects to express their vulnerability without outside dictation has set her apart in her...

Dr. Sarah E. Hill, PhD is a research psychologist and expert in the effects of birth control on women’s lives. She is the author of the book, "This is Your Brain on Birth Control" and has dedicated her research to uncovering the science behind hormonal birth control and its potential impacts. 

In this episode, Dr. Sarah E. Hill discusses the importance of understanding the science of birth control and its influence on choices women make, such as pursuing education, careers, and even romantic partners. She presents recent developments and research on birth control, including the approval of...

The gut microbiome has been a hot topic in science over the years. But what does science know about the vaginal microbiome and its effect on women’s health?

In this episode, Dr. Beth DuPriest joins us to share the emerging findings on the vaginal microbiome. We discuss everything from vagina probiotics to estrogen and lube to vaginal steaming. Whether you want to know what lube is best for women or you’re curious about everyday vaginal care, this episode is for you.

Dr. DuPriest is the Chief Science Officer at Vaginal Biome Science which faci...