Welcome to the wild west of perimenopause, where hot flashes meet hashtags and popular influencers suddenly have a lab test recommendation—thanks, TikTok. Hormone lab testing is “trending” and the Docs are taking a skeptical scalpel to the flood of hormone lab testing trends that have invaded exam rooms and inboxes alike.

In this episode of OvaryActive, Dr. Amy Voedisch and Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su go over which hormone tests are actually helpful and which ones are just good at emptying your wallet. Remember: just because your favorite influencer swears by a saliva test doesn’t mean your ovaries agree.

They explain why testing isn’t always the best next step, even if AI says so. This episode has everything you wanted to know about hormone testing (minus the woo, plus the wisdom).

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[0:45] Social media and AI’s influence on patient expectations

[2:45] Understanding labs

[3:37] Estrogen, progesterone, and other commonly requested tests

[11:16] Progesterone: When and why to test

[16:07] FSH and LH: Key hormones in menopause

[20:03] What you need to know about thyroid testing

[26:02] Understanding cortisol

[30:43] The Role of DHEA in hormone production

[36:28] Pitfalls of unnecessary testing

[40:04] Testing methods: blood vs. urine vs. saliva

[41:58] The Importance of symptom-based treatment

[43:37] A few things to remember

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs dive headfirst into the hot (flash) topic of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for breast cancer survivors. It’s complicated, it’s emotional, and yes, it’s got a healthy splash of perimenopause thrown in—because nothing says “fun” like navigating midlife with a side of oncology.

They talk all about the swirling myths, the clickbait headlines, and the TikTok “experts” who got their MDs from the comments section. Dr. Dunsmoor-Su even shares her own experience with breast cancer and menopause, adding a real-world lens to the science.

We’ve got real talk on estrogen’s role in cancer risk, the current scientific consensus on HRT post-diagnosis, and why early detection still matters.

You’ll walk away with a clearer sense of what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what to actually bring up with your doctor (hint: not what Becky from Instagram said).

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[0:57] The “Influencer Effect”

[1:18] Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su’s experience with breast cancer and menopause

[7:40] The Gold Standard: Mammograms

[11:25] Alternative screening methods: myths and facts

[16:48] Estrogen’s role in breast cancer

[20:43] Understanding HRT & breast cancer

[30:24[ Tamoxifen & Aromatase inhibitors: a comparison

[39:22] Women’s health needs more research

Resources:

thewisdomstudy.org

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Welcome to the magical mystery tour that is perimenopause, where your hormones throw a rave and forget to invite your metabolism.

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs tackle the ever-fun topic of weight gain during perimenopause—because just when you thought you had your fitness routine down, suddenly your jeans won’t button no matter what you do.

Dr. Amy Voedisch and Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su are here to tell us what’s really going on with our bodies during this hormonal joyride. They talk through the outdated gospel of BMI, the realities of lifestyle changes (yes, we see you, kale), and the current science of obesity treatment, fresh off the Obesity Medicine Association runway.

From GLP-1s to diabetes meds and everything in between, they cover the full pharmacy aisle of weight loss medications—along with the pros, cons, and costs. Listeners will gain clarity, a few laughs, and a better idea of what might actually work for you.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[0:31] Hot Topic: Weight loss & perimenopause

[1:35] Obesity Medicine Association Conference insights

[3:48] Body composition vs. BMI

[7:06] The role of medications in weight management

[12:31] Who’s a candidate for weight loss medications?

[18:15] Did you know there are categories?!

[22:43] GLP-1s

[27:39] How does one even choose?

[30:36] What’s the price tag?

[32:00] Wait–there are risks to losing weight during perimenopause?

[34:10] Nutrition and lifestyle are very important

[35:05] Looking into the [metaphorical] crystal ball

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Ahhhh…perimenopause: the delightful phase of life where your hormones throw a rager and forget to invite you.

If you thought contraception was a concern of your younger years, think again. In this episode, the Docs are tackling the wild world of birth control during perimenopause—because yes, you can still get pregnant, and yes, that’s as terrifying as it sounds.

Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch are talking about everything from IUDs to sterilization myths, and explaining why contraception still matters even when your cycle starts playing hide-and-seek.They break down the science behind IUDs, birth control pills, and other contraceptive options, all while dispelling common misconceptions.

Spoiler alert: IUDs do more than just prevent pregnancy—they can also help manage heavy bleeding and cramping. And birth control pills? Turns out they might just be the unsung heroes of perimenopausal symptom control.

This episode is full of information (and some laughs), including your birth control options, the latest advancements like the Nextstellis pill, and why hormones like estetrol and drospirenone are making waves in menopause management. We also cover emergency contraception (because life happens) and safe sex practices—because STIs don’t care how old you are.

So grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine and join us for a candid, insightful, and slightly irreverent conversation about contraception in your 40s and beyond.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[3:34] Understanding contraception during perimenopause

[7:09] How do you choose the right method?

[13:51] Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARS)

[16:03] IUDs and their benefits

[28:17] The pill

[34:37] Nextstellis and E4

[41:42] IUDs as hormone therapy

[46:22] Emergency contraception

[50:24] Barriers to contraception and STI prevention

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Perimenopause: it’s not just hot flashes and rage-cleaning your kitchen at 2 a.m. (although that’s part of it).

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs get into the chaos and confusion that is hormonal fluctuation with none other than Dr. Jen Gunter, the internet’s favorite OBGYN and myth-slayer-in-chief.

From PMS to PMDD to bleeding that seems to follow no known calendar system, this conversation tackles the messy, misunderstood realities of perimenopause with wit, wisdom, and zero tolerance for pseudoscience.

Dr. Gunter is a bestselling author and advocate for fact-based women’s health. She brings her signature blend of science, sass, and serious credentials to a conversation that pulls back the curtain on topics that often get ignored—or worse, wildly misrepresented. Whether you’ve read The Vagina Bible or just Googled “why does everything hurt after 40,” this is one guest you’ll want to hear from.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[0:28] Meet Dr. Jen Gunter: author & OBGYN

[3:26] Misinformation impacts women’s health

[8:04] Perimenopause myths

[11:05] A legit treatment plan is more than essential oils and good vibes

[16:34] When bleeding becomes an issue

[25:15] PMS and PMDD – two acronyms of perimenopause

[30:38] Pain is not “just part of being a woman’

[33:16] Break the silence with your vaginal health

[37:23] Caring for your vulva and vagina

[51:48] Information is power!

Connect with Dr. Jen Gunter:

drjengunter.com

@drjengunger

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Perimenopause: it’s like puberty’s older, meaner cousin who shows up uninvited and messes with your thermostat. We asked for your all-things-perimenopause questions on Instagram, and now Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su and Dr. Amy Voedisch are here to answer!

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs take listener questions in an “Ask Us Anything” session where no question is too personal, too awkward, or too hormonally charged. From postpartum to perimenopause, they unpack how these hormonal roller coasters are more connected than you think—and why your 30s and 40s feel like a chaotic sequel to adolescence.

You’ll gain clarity on spotting perimenopause symptoms, realistic expectations for hormone therapy, and the lowdown on whether those TikTok GLP-1 weight loss trends are legit—or just another expensive fad.

This episode is full of science AND the kind of real talk you wish came with your last OB-GYN appointment.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[1:33] Exploring connections between postpartum and perimenopause

[8:09] Predicting perimenopause: what signs to look for

[12:30] Heavy, heavy periods

[19:11] Low (to ‘negative-zero’) libido

[24:26] Advice on synthetic hormones/bio identical hormones

[32:12] GLP-1 medications for weight loss during perimenopause

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Let’s face it—perimenopause isn’t exactly known for its sparkling perks (unless you consider surprise hot flashes a “perk”). But what it does bring is a whole new relationship with your skincare routine.

In this episode of OvaryActive, the Docs are diving into the hormonal chaos that makes your skin suddenly act like a moody teenager again—and what you can actually do about it––without buying 47 different serums.

Joining the Docs is the fabulous Dr. Jessica Healy, who brings her expert insights and her sunscreen to explain the science (and nonsense) behind skincare. This trio of Docs is talking about everything from niacinamide to red light therapy, the truth about oral collagen, and yes, even the mysterious world of biotin and your brittle nails.

You’ll leave with practical tips, a little more science know-how, and maybe, just maybe, the willpower to finally toss that 10-step skincare routine you never really liked anyway.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[:40] Meet Dr. Jessica Healy

[2:24] I’m wandering Sephora, send help!

[8:35] What SPF do I need?

[13:49] Is retinol beneficial?

[16:38] Is Vitamin C serum worth the price tag?

[19:34] Oh no, that made me turn red!

[24:33] Exploring topical estrogens

[27:11] To collagen or not to collagen?

[31:54] What’s trending?

[34:32] The wonders of red light therapy

[37:57] Let’s breakdown your day and night routine

[42:16] Don’t forget your nails!

Links:

dermspecpa.com

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html

Strap in and grab your magnesium and chamomile tea—this week we're battling Perimenopause’s sworn nemesis: a good night’s sleep.

Joining the Docs for the third part in the Your Brain on Peri series is the brilliant Dr. Meredith Broderick—triple-board certified in neurology, sleep medicine, and behavioral sleep medicine (basically, she’s the Swiss Army knife of slumber science).

Dr. Broderick brings her expertise on why perimenopausal sleep is often so elusive, how women are uniquely impacted by sleep disorders, and why sleep medicine isn’t just about popping a pill and hoping for the best. Heads up…your smart watch might be lying to you.

Basically, if you've ever stared at the ceiling at 3 a.m. wondering if it's you or your hormones—you’re in the right place. Share this episode with a tired friend, colleague, or sister!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

[0:41] Meet Meredith Broderick, MD: Sleep Medicine Expert

[1:28] Sleep med vs. behavioral sleep medicine

[3:05] Why is my body throwing 3 AM tantrums?

[6:55] The role of sleep studies and devices

[19:51] Circadian rhythms and why shift work = body betrayal

[24:18] Sleep quality & your waistline–the sleep-weight connection

[29:42] Sleep studies

[34:40] Pros and cons of CBTI (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia)

[40:30] Modern CPAP machines

[43:02] Final Thoughts on sleep and health

Connect with Meredith Broderick, MD:
soundsleepguru.com

Instagram | @sleepdoctormer

Follow the show @OvaryActive Instagram | YouTube

Meet the Docs:

More information about Dr. Rebecca Dunsmoor-Su:

Gennev: www.gennev.com/clinician/dr-rebecca-dunsmoor-su

LinkedIn @rebecca-dunsmoor-su

More information about Dr. Amy Voedisch:

Stanford Medical Clinic: stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/v/amy-voedisch.html