This Time of the Month

Hormone Therapy, Sexual Health & More: Q&A w/ Dr. Alida | TTOM S2E8

Recently, we received many questions from the TTOM community through text messages, email and comments across our social media handles.
In this episode, we're answering a few of those questions with our special guest Dr. Alida Pokoradi. She is an expert in OBGYN, GYN Oncology, and GYN Surgery, with a PhD focused on menopause.
Watch previous episodes (S2E3) with Dr. Alida for more in depth conversations.
Her academic journey, from the University of Toronto to the University of Aberdeen, has armed her with key insights into menopause's impact on health.
Now a gynecologic oncologist, her rich experience and extensive research make this episode an essential listen for those seeking a deeper understanding of menopause from a distinguished voice in women's health.
Timestamp:
0:00 Intro
1:35 If I had breast cancer, what can I do about hot flashes and vaginal symptoms
2:49 Is there a cut off age for hormone therapy?
3:29 I'm 61-62 years old, is it too late for hormone therapy?
5:14 Do I have to be 12 months without a period to get hormone therapy?
6:58 "Help! My coochie is so itchy, it wakes me up during night..."
11:30 What's Vulvodynia? How to recognize it? Differentiating it from other conditions
13:29 “I had my labs done, Dr says I'm not in menopause…”
14:51 “I started bleeding after menopause.” Dangerous?
17:54 If you are on systemic Hormone therapy...
18:44 Most common questions: Sexual health
22:44 The Proust Questionnaire
24:15 Product Review (Stuff I like)

3 Midlife Stories: Beauty, Aging & Empowerment | TTOM S2E7

Join Dr. Beatrice Seguin in 'This Time of the Month' for conversations with Stephanie, Helen, and Laurie on embracing beauty, confidence, and empowerment amidst life's challenges.
Stephanie Adams: Redefining Beauty in your 40s
Self-Care: Elevating personal well-being as a paramount priority.
Unity: Encouraging open sharing and mutual support among women.
Proactivity: Highlighting the importance of regular health screenings.
Style: Advocating for personal expression beyond societal age expectations.
Dialogue: Promoting transparent communication with healthcare providers.
 
Helen Tansey: Embrace True Beauty Essence: Valuing people beyond looks.
Narratives: Challenging society's aging and beauty standards.
Unity: Encouraging women to uplift, not judge.
Aging: Seeing aging as natural and positive.
Joy: Finding beauty in laughter, meditation, and connections.
 
Laurie Hunt: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Choosing Self.
Movement: Overcoming limits to unlock potential.
Growth Mindset: Embracing possibilities beyond age.
Daily Practices: Balancing mood, movement, and mental growth.
Small Shifts: Setting achievable goals to break barriers.
Self-Care: Prioritizing oneself for growth and service.
 
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:48: what's in episode 7?
2:41 Part 1: Stephanie - Beauty Standards
4:08 Can we own our standard of beauty past our 40s?
6:12 women judge each other a lot
7:58 I think women need to share beyond Instagram
8:30 affordable tips that gives you that sense of uplift
10:27 what turns you on in your 40s compared to 20s or 30s?
12:03 when they say, "Dress your age!"
14:36 "suffering in silence"
15:44 Part 2: Helen - how we changed narrative about beauty and aging
16:08 - how you see essence of a person? how do you do that?
17:00 how do you define beauty?
18:51 - Internal struggle
21:21 stop judging each other
23:46 my brother believed in me
24:44 what would you tell your younger self
27:56 Three things you want TTOM audience to know
30:09 I wish celeb would be more transparent
32:00 what makes you feel beautiful?
33:31 part 3 - Laurie - overcoming limiting beliefs
34:35 what’s the small shift to overcome limiting beliefs
36:10 "I'm too old to do this"
37:45 transformation is achievable for everyone?"
39:14 what you would want TTOM audience to leave with?
43:27 SIL – Sh!t I Like
Green dress worn with Stephanie was kindly styled by @jordananoelle.styling
Additional Links:
Helen Tansey https://www.sundariphotography.com
Laurie Hunt https://www.lauriehunt.com/blog/the-more-in-me-movement-story-part-1-what-is-it
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Feminine leadership and the burden of health advocacy| TTOM S2E6

In Episode 6 of TTOM Season 2, we dive into the often-unspoken world of perimenopause, with a focus on the experiences of women navigating this transformative phase of life. Our guest, Charity Kabango, co-founder and director of entrepreneurial solutions partners (ESP), shares her personal insights, underscoring the importance of open discussions and the need for accessible information and support. The episode covers topics such as the early signs of perimenopause, how it affects daily life, and the challenges women face in seeking understanding and care from healthcare professionals. It also emphasizes the power of community and shared experiences in navigating this significant life stage. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten and empower women in their journey through perimenopause.
Topic Covered:
Awareness and Accessibility: Discussing the gap in open conversations about perimenopause
Healthcare Challenges: Addressing the need for respectful healthcare, especially for women of colour
Community Support: Emphasizing the importance of advice from friends and family in understanding health concerns like perimenopause
Identifying Symptoms: Exploring signs like menstrual changes and sleep issue
Feminine Leadership: Charity highlights the strengths of feminine leadership, emphasizing empathy and a nuanced understanding of one's environment as key leadership traits.
Brain Fog Struggles: Highlighting brain fog as a potential, yet overlooked, symptoms.
Seeking Clarity: Charity's quest for answers about her symptoms
00:00 Introduction 
00:31 What is TTOM and what's in it for you?
00:55 Before we talked, did you know the word "perimenopause"?
03:07 Have you been proactively approached by Primary Caregiver?
06:12 Is there any symptom that you most associate with perimenopause?
07:37 This can be 1/3rd to half of your entire life.
09:47 Experience with Primary Caregiver on menopause
13:25 "Busy professional woman, is it fair to ask you to figure it out?"
14:37 Trust in the healthcare system
18:31 Feminine Leadership for 14 years
23:00 Having pads in the office: vision for better workplaces
27:03 you can't access pain care as a black woman 33:11 Is there #1 takeaway from this episode?
34:00 What makes you feel beautiful?
35:44 What's next? To learn more about Perimenopause Watch ep 1
Additional Resources:
'Menopause Manifesto' by Dr Jen Gunter (book review): https://youtube.com/shorts/fX6nCj4lCpw
Episode 1 with Dr Jessica Green:
https://youtu.be/mnRdqakL_2E
Socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttomcommunity/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTOMcommunity/
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Reclaiming intimacy, midlife edition| TTOM S2E5

After 40, women may experience a slowdown in the frequency of sex. Result? It can impact relationships to a significant extent. In this episode 5 of Season 2, I continued my candid conversation with returning guest Monique Voorn, social worker and sexual health and wellness counsellor to unravel the intricacies of sexual wellness and intimacy in midlife. Monique shared the challenges couples face as they navigate changes in their bodies and desires. From understanding the importance of non-verbal cues to expanding the definition of intimacy beyond sex, Monique and I talked about it all.
Topics Covered:
The broadening concept of intimacy and sexual wellness in midlife. Strategies for maintaining connection without traditional forms of sex, including the exploration of "Venus" (Very Erotic Non-Insertive Sex).
The importance of non-verbal communication and the sensate focus exercise for enhancing intimacy. Navigating the challenges of erectile dysfunction and dryness with openness and creativity.
Overcoming guilt and redefining roles within sexual relationships.
Practical tips for expressing needs and desires to strengthen the partnership.
Additional Resources:
10 Tips for Low Sexual Desire from Alberta Health Services: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-low-sexual-desire.pdf
Better Sex Through Mindfulness workbook by Dr. Lori Brotto be found on her website:
https://www.loribrotto.com/
Come as You Are Come Together by Emily Nagoski: https://www.emilynagoski.com/home
OHNUT rings: https://ohnut.co/en-ca?gad_source=1&rfsn=6780991.9bb7a1e&utm_campaign=theOnlyReviews&utm_content=theOnlyReviews&utm_id=theOnlyReviews&utm_medium=theOnlyReviews&utm_source=theOnlyReviews&utm_term=theOnlyReviews
Dr. Rosemary Basson's work:
https://thischangedmypractice.com/author/robasson/
Socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttomcommunity/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTOMcommunity/
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

What causes lack of midlife sexual desire in women? | TTOM S2E4

Welcome to Episode 4 of TTOM Season 2, where we're joined by Monique Voorn, a Master's level social worker who specializes in sexual health and wellness counselling. In this episode, Monique shares her insights on crucial aspects of sexual health. We talked about practical solutions for vaginal dryness, exploring the role of lubricants in enhancing sexual activity. Monique addresses the often-sensitive topic of low sexual desire, discussing its causes and effective solutions. We also tackle the misconceptions around sexual intimacy and how it differs from portrayals on platforms like Netflix or Hollywood movies. From understanding the dynamics of stress and intimacy to exploring the concept of receptive desire, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to improve their sexual well-being and debunk common myths about sexual health.
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction: Welcome to  TTOM
2:59 what causes vaginal dryness?
5:01 how to support women so she can discuss low sexual desire 6:31 effective tools for addressing low sexual desire
10:37 women’s sexual desire is different
11:05 why is stress bad for intimacy? 13:25 what is receptive (sex) desire?
16:01 Most unromantic thing to increase intimacy with your partner 20.00 types of lubricants
23:00 insufficient arousal: who’s to blame? You or your partner? 28:25 when woman is completely aroused…?
36:38 debunking the most common myths about sexual health
 
Additional Resources:
10 Tips for Low Sexual Desire from Alberta Health Services: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-low-sexual-desire.pdf
Better Sex Through Mindfulness workbook by Dr. Lori Brotto be found on her website: https://www.loribrotto.com/
Come as You Are Come Together by Emily Nagoski: https://www.emilynagoski.com/home OHNUT rings: https://ohnut.co/en-ca?gad_source=1&rfsn=6780991.9bb7a1e&utm_campaign=theOnlyReviews&utm_content=theOnlyReviews&utm_id=theOnlyReviews&utm_medium=theOnlyReviews&utm_source=theOnlyReviews&utm_term=theOnlyReviews
Dr. Rosemary Basson's work: https://thischangedmypractice.com/author/robasson/
Social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttomcommunity/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTOMcommunity/
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Top 3 Tips for Navigating Menopause: A Prevention Perspective w/ Dr. Alida Pokoradi | TTOM S2E3

Join me for a compelling episode with Dr. Alida Pokoradi, an esteemed expert in OBGYN, GYN Oncology, and GYN Surgery, with a PhD focused on menopause.
Dr. Pokoradi's illustrious academic journey, from the University of Toronto to the University of Aberdeen, has armed her with groundbreaking insights into menopause's impact on health. Now a gynecologic oncologist, her rich experience and extensive research make this episode an essential listen for those seeking a deeper understanding of menopause from a distinguished voice in women's health.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to enrich your knowledge and perspective.
Timestamp:
0:00 - Intro: Welcome to TTOM
1:04 - Dr. Alida's Personal Story
4:35 - Why women fear menopause hormone therapy?
6:00 - New research findings on menopause hormone therapy
8:25 - Menopause Management: Is there proactive screening?
10:23 - types of hormone therapy based on menopause stages 15:50 Message to primary caregivers on menopause support
19:34 On behalf of breast cancer survivor...
22:36 - How do we create awareness around menopause?
25:20 - Top 3 Tips for Navigating Menopause: A Prevention Perspective
27:49 - Why Menopause Matters: Educating Women in Their 30s
30:03 - The Three Key Takeaways About Menopause You Shouldn't Forget 31:40 What makes you feel beautiful?
32:38 Outro – S#!t I Like Product Review (not sponsored, just obsessed)
Key Highlights:
- Understanding Hormone Therapy: What do we know now? Get up-to-date information on hormone therapy and its impact on health during menopause.
- Proactive Screening & Questionnaires: Discover the importance of early detection and the role of proactive screening in managing menopause symptoms.
- The Science of Perimenopause: Why recognizing the science of perimenopause is crucial for women's health.
- Hormone Therapy Variations: Learn about different types of hormone therapy based on your stage of menopause.
- Advice for Primary Caregivers: Essential takeaways for primary caregivers to better support those going through menopause.
- Menopause Management: From a prevention perspective, get expert recommendations on navigating through menopause optimally.
- Why Menopause Matters to All: Understanding why women not going through menopause should still be aware and informed.
- Top 3 Menopause Tips: Don't miss these three vital points to remember about menopause.
Social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttomcommunity/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTOMcommunity/
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Unspoken loss, anger & grief in midlife? Resolve w/ Kirsten F, Grief Recovery Specialist | TTOM S2E2

In this TTOM episode 2 of Season 2. Dr. Béatrice welcomes Kirsten Frey, a Grief Recovery Specialist, navigating the complex emotions of midlife. Together, they uncover the often unspoken aspects of loss, anger, and grief that many experience during this transformative period.
Introduction to Grief Recovery: Kirsten Frey shares her journey to becoming a grief recovery specialist and how grief recovery differs from traditional therapy and counselling.
Topics covered include:
- Emotional Rollercoaster at 48: Personal story of discovering she was adopted and how it impacted her life, emphasizing the emotional complexities involved.
- Intellectualizing Loss is Not Enough: Intellectualizing loss helps, but it's a form of adapting. Kirsten recommends that one needs both adapting and healing to fully recover from a loss.
- What's Grief Recovery Process: An evidence-based educational program that provides tools to process and move through grief, differing from traditional therapy or counseling. Learn additional details in the episode.
- Recognizing and Dealing with Grief: The episode emphasizes recognizing grief through emotions like anger, which often masks deeper unresolved grief related to disrespect, boundary violations, or hurts.
- Exploring Midlife Changes: The conversation addresses various losses experienced during midlife, including menopause, with insights on the emotional impact and the sense of loss regarding femininity and life transitions.
Timestamp:
0:0 Intro 1:24 "I felt a lot of loss"
1:55 I didn't know grief recovery specialist existed
3:20 What is Grief and Loss? Definition and examples…
7:40 how do we recognize grief?
8:10 anger is your bodyguard… move through unresolved feelings
11:05 do you cry when you’re alone?
12:36 Grief recovery program
13:56 What led you to become a grief recovery specialist?
18:27 Grief recovery method vs therapy/counseling
20:28 Intellectualizing loss… Put it in a box and move on
23:03 acute loss is exhausting
27:00 what makes you feel beautiful?
Social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ttomcommunity/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TTOMcommunity/
Note: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.
RESOURCES:
Kirsten Frey www.tlclifecoaching.com
IG: tlclifecoaching
Grief Recovery method https://www.griefrecoverymethod.com/sites/default/files/cgrs-support-files/the_major_myths_about_grief_ebook.pdf

Workouts For Women Over 40 That Are Easy, Simple & Effective w/ Amanda Thebe| TTOM S2E1

Welcome to the Season 2 of “this time of the month (TTOM).”
Thank you for amazing support through Season 1. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss new episodes. 
 
Your feedback fuels our passion. Let’s get ready for another great season! In this first episode of Season 2, Dr. Beatrice invites menopause expert Amanda Thebe to dive deep into the transformative power of fitness during midlife.
Topics covered: - Introducing MMR Workout: Menopause Metabolic Resistance Training (MMR) is a concept coined by Amanda, strength training for menopausal women, focusing on metabolic improvement and muscle tone enhancement. - Strength Training Myths: Amanda debunks common misconceptions and encourages women to start working out regularly, even if it’s as little as 20 mins at home. - Squat for beginner women: Amanda explains how to get started with squat, specific techniques, and benefits for women. She provides detailed nuances such as, "Your knees slightly press out... you engage the glute at the side." Learn how small adjustments can lead to massive gains in strength and overall fitness. - The Push-Up Challenge: Amanda emphasizes, "Every single woman has a push-up in her." She guides through the progression from wall push-ups to full planks, illustrating each woman's untapped potential for strength. She goes on to simplify push for beginners. - Walking: the highly underestimated fitness giant. In her own words, "Don't underestimate the power of just moving. Like going for a walk, go for a brisk walk."
Timestamp: 0:00
Intro 1:22 what is Menopause Metabolic Resistance Training?
2:19 “I can’t do strength training, it seems daunting.”
3:43 what is strength training?
5:35 how to workout at home or a hotel room in short period of time
7:01 How to do perfect squat after 40?
7:23 Squats demo
11:00 I love fitness snacking
11:53 Busy as F***? Try Fitness snacking on the run
13:00 It’s the lack of movement that’s the issue.
15:44 Every single woman has a pushup in her
17:00 Push up demo
20:00 women are stronger than they think: Just start doing something
20:40 Outro – Non sponsored product review "S#!t I Like" (Protein bar with 16gm of protein)
Socials:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/amanda.thebe
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandathebex
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandathebex
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-thebe/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AmandaThebex Podcast: www.amandathebe.com/podcast
 
 
Disclaimer: Content in this episode is meant for educational and awareness purposes. It does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Purpose-driven wealth creation and well-being

On our final episode 23 of season 1, we're here to explore the true meaning of wealth – it's not just about dollars and cents, but about well-being.
 
Join us as we talk about building wealth on purpose, especially through midlife. Our guest is Hadriana Leo, a financial and wealth strategist, owner of Money Navigator Coaching Services, and author. Hadriana brings a fresh perspective, encouraging us to connect wealth to our purpose and redefine success on our terms.
 
In this episode, Hadriana shares her insights on the importance of going beyond financial metrics and incorporating a value system into your money decisions. She emphasizes the need for women to understand the connection between their identity and money, challenging the conventional notions of success.
 
Get ready for an inspiring conversation that explores the intersectionality of wealth, wellness, and purpose. Hadriana shares practical tips on how to build wealth intentionally, even in midlife. Discover the magic formula of becoming a wealthy woman on purpose, unapologetically defining success for yourself.
 
Our host, Beatrice, also delves into personal experiences and challenges the societal norms that dictate women's worth based on financial status. The conversation gets real, touching on the struggles women face at midlife, the power of visioning, and the importance of supporting each other's unique journeys.
 
So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfortable, and join us on this empowering journey to redefine wealth and success. Welcome to TTOMcommunity – where purposeful wealth meets unapologetic living. Thank you for being here.
Resources:
BOOK: Becoming a Wealthy Woman on Purpose: Your Guide to Creating Wealth Confidently and Unapologetically by Hadriana Leo
Hadriana's Socials:
website: https://www.moneynavigator.ca
IG: @moneynavigator
Linkedin: Hadriana Leo

Insider fashion tips for holiday wear

Welcome to episode 22, where we dive into the world of holiday fashion with Sagit Vyner.
From office parties to festive gatherings, building the perfect evening capsule can be a challenge.
Explore unique options like a halter one-piece outfit for a fun look and get insights on handling tricky undergarments. Sagit shares tips on adapting outfits for various events, whether it's a cocktail party or a cozy gathering at a friend's home.
Tune in for practical advice, style inspiration, and a touch of holiday tradition. Whether you're navigating work events or festive celebrations, this episode has you covered. So grab your favorite festive beverage and join us for a fashionable and insightful conversation!