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Many women begin noticing changes in their late 30s and early 40s—trouble sleeping, mood shifts, weight gain, or feeling more anxious than usual. Yet when they seek medical care, their lab tests often come back completely normal.

In this episode, Dr. Brandi Sinkfield speaks with menopause specialist Dr. Leah Millheiser about the early stages of the menopause transition and why perimenopause is often overlooked in clinical care.

Dr. Millheiser explains why hormone levels fluctuate dramatically during this phase of life, why lab testing may not always capture what’s happening in the early stages of perimenopause, and why many women feel their symptoms are treated individually rather than understood as part of a larger hormonal transition. The conversation explores common symptoms and why these changes can begin years before menopause itself.

Dr. Sinkfield also reflects on how learning more about perimenopause has changed the way she views patient care in her own clinical practice, highlighting how hormonal changes can affect metabolism, cardiovascular health, brain function, and overall well-being.

This episode is the first in a multi-episode series exploring perimenopause, menopause care, sexual wellness, and the evolving role of digital health technologies in women’s health.

Topics Discussed

• Early signs of perimenopause

• Why many women experience symptoms years before menopause

• How the Women’s Health Initiative shaped menopause care for decades

• Why hormone testing alone may not diagnose early perimenopause

• Mood changes, anxiety, and sleep disruption during the menopause transition

• Why weight gain is often the symptom that brings women to the doctor

• Emerging technologies like continuous glucose monitors in menopause research

• How to find clinicians who specialize in menopause care

Key Takeaways

Perimenopause can begin years before menopause itself. Many women experience symptoms while their menstrual cycles remain regular and lab tests appear normal.

Hormone levels fluctuate dramatically during the menopause transition. Because of this, lab tests alone may not always detect early perimenopause.

Symptoms often appear across multiple body systems. Perimenopause can affect metabolism, sleep, mood, cardiovascular health, bone health, and sexual health.

Weight gain is one of the most common reasons women seek care. Changes in metabolism during perimenopause can contribute to shifts in body composition.

Finding a menopause specialist can make a significant difference. Resources such as The Menopause Society help women locate clinicians trained in menopause care.

Guest

Dr. Leah Millhei

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

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What happens when your body forces you into menopause before you're ready?

In this episode of the Women’s Digital Health Podcast, journalist and podcast creator Golda Arthur shares her deeply personal story of navigating genetic cancer risk, surgical menopause, and the emotional fallout that followed. When her mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Golda discovered she carried a rare gene mutation—RAD51C—that increased her own risk. After years of fear and hesitation, she made the decision to undergo a preventive surgery to remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Golda describes perimenopause as chaotic and fiery—but surgical menopause? That was something else entirely. Abrupt. Flat. Emotionally deadening. Her symptoms included debilitating joint pain, insomnia, and emotional numbness—symptoms that left her questioning whether she was experiencing depression for the first time.

We also talk about the decision to start hormone therapy—a path Golda didn’t take lightly, given her genetic risks. Her story offers a nuanced look at how personalized, science-informed care can be both life-changing and life-restoring. With the support of cancer researchers at the University of British Columbia, she discovered Duavee, a form of estrogen therapy that doesn’t require progesterone—an option that helped her reclaim her vitality and movement.

This episode isn’t just about hormones—it’s about health equity. Host Dr. Brandi exposes the systemic failures that leave women scrambling for answers: the underfunding of menopause research, the near-defunding of the Women’s Health Initiative, and the shockingly low venture capital investment in women’s health beyond fertility and breast cancer. We dive into why symptom trackers and apps aren’t enough—and why women, as both patients and taxpayers, deserve connected data, evidence-based options, and funding that reflects our value.

Whether you’re in perimenopause, navigating surgical menopause, or simply trying to understand your body better—this conversation is for you.

Links & Resources:

• Check out Golda Arthur’s Podcast “Overlooked”: https://overlookedpod.com/
• Join the Women’s Digital Health WhatsApp Community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GMpuGEygaWS4gcdli0f5vR
• Wanna know more about Perimenopause and Digital Health?: Episode 23: Understanding Perimenopause: Hormone Therapy, Symptom Tracking, and the Power of FemTech
• Download the Hormone Harmony ebook: http

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

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Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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This season, we're discussing perimenopause and how technology intersects with this often overlooked phase of life.

Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Heidi Davis. She's the CEO and co-founder of Peri, a groundbreaking wearable device designed to help women track their symptoms and gain objective data to discuss with healthcare providers. With a global perspective and background in nutrition and molecular medicine, Heidi is at the forefront of a movement that’s changing the narrative around women’s health.

Layered over our conversation, you'll also hear insights from Dr. Lareessa Ferdinand, a board-certified ob-gyn and perimenopause expert.

This episode is a blend of technology, clinical expertise, and lived experiences, all aimed at empowering women to understand their bodies better. As a physician, I find these discussions not only informative but also essential for my growth as a healthcare provider.

Topics include:

• How perimenopause manifests differently for each woman, influenced by factors like race, ethnicity, and personal health history.
• The role of technology in providing real-time feedback rather than relying on memory or guesswork.
• Examples of personal stories and collective action in driving change, illustrating how women sharing their experiences can lead to systemic changes in healthcare.
• The importance of data that reflects the unique experiences of women, facilitating informed conversations with healthcare providers, and moving away from outdated guidelines and assumptions.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Check out my new e-book, Hormone Harmony, which is all about empowering women during the perimenopausal journey
• Get a copy of my Digital Health Essentials for Perimenopause
• Do you think that AI could help you get better care or not? Join the Women's Digital Health WhatsApp chat and let me know what's on your mind
• Visit Menopause Mandate
• Visit Peri
• Visit Dr. LaReesa
• Sign up for the Women's Digital Health Newsletter

Subscribe to the Women's Digital Health Podcast wherever you're listening right now, and discover more about the intersection of technology, mental health, and personal development. And please share the podcast with anyone from your

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Send us a text

This season, we're talking about perimenopause and how technology intersects with this important phase of life. I’ll be sharing my personal experiences, discussing the current technological landscape, and providing insights from my new book, Hormone Harmony, along with a companion Digital Health guide.

Many women, including myself, are navigating perimenopause without adequate preparation or information. We can discuss symptoms among friends, but there’s a lack of formal education on what to expect. It’s surprising how little we know about the changes happening in our bodies, from mood swings to sleep disturbances, and how these changes are often framed as problems rather than a natural part of life.

As we move through this season, you can expect to hear real-life stories from women experiencing perimenopause, discussions about the latest technology, and insights into the financial implications of this stage of life.

Topics include:

• Defining perimenopause and its impact on women’s lives.
• The importance of community support and sharing insights through platforms like WhatsApp.
• My personal experiences of the physical changes that come with perimenopause.
• Reflections on medical training and the need for better education about perimenopause.
• Exploring the role of technology in tracking symptoms and enhancing healthcare conversations.

Join the conversation, share your stories, and explore the resources available to navigate perimenopause with confidence. Remember, this journey is happening whether we’re ready for it or not, and together, we can take control and empower ourselves.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Check out my new e-book, Hormone Harmony, which is all about empowering women during the perimenopausal journey
• Get a copy of my Digital Health Essentials for Perimenopause
• Do you think that AI could help you get better care or not? Join the Women's Digital Health WhatsApp chat and let me know what's on your mind
• Visit The Menopause Society
• Sign up for the Women's Digital Health Newsletter

Subscribe to the Women's Digital Health Podcast wherever you're listening right now, and discover more about the intersection of technology, mental health, and personal development. And please share the podcast with anyone from your community who will benefit.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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Welcome back to the Women's Digital Health Podcast! In this bonus episode, I’m diving into how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming anesthesia and postoperative care.

First, I explain the essential roles of anesthesiologists, which go beyond just putting patients to sleep. Next, I introduce some key vocabulary terms related to AI in anesthesia. Then, we explore how AI is actively assisting anesthesiologists in real-time scenarios during surgery. Finally, I address some common myths about AI in healthcare, particularly in the field of anesthesia.

Topics include:

• Understanding the role of anesthesiologists and why we aren't just the people who put you to sleep for surgery.
• The role of AI in analyzing past data and helping anesthesiologists stay one step ahead
• Busting myths about AI in healthcare, such as the idea that AI will replace doctors.

Many people fear that AI will replace doctors, but the reality is that AI serves as a decision-support tool, enhancing the expertise of anesthesiologists rather than replacing it. It’s essential to recognize that while AI can improve patient outcomes, the human touch and judgment remain irreplaceable in the medical field.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Check out my new e-book, Hormone Harmony, which is all about empowering women during the perimenopausal journey
• Do you think that AI could help you get better care or not? Join the Women's Digital Health WhatsApp chat and let me know what's on your mind
• Listen to Episode 7 of the Women's Digital Health podcast: Artificial Intelligence in Women’s Health
• Listen to Episode 10 of the Women's Digital Health podcast: Countdown to Clarity: Breaking Down the Top 10 Myths in Women’s Tech & Health
• Listen to Episode 13 of the Women's Digital Health podcast: Exploring Artificial Intelligence’s Role in Mental Health Through Language Models
• Sign up for the Women's Digital Health Newsletter

Subscribe to the Women's Digital Health Podcast wherever you're listening right now, and discover more about the intersection of technology, mental health, and personal development. And p

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Send us a text

In the final episode of Season Two of the Women's Digital Health Podcast, I wanted to guide you through our mental health and technology journey. This season has focused on how technology can support mental health, especially in light of the current mental health crisis highlighted by the American Psychological Association.

We’ve packed this season with valuable content aimed at being a resource for our community and discussed the scarcity of mental health professionals. Technology can serve as a bridge to help those in need, but with all of the advancements in the tech health space, it can be difficult to know which option (or options) are right for you.

As we wrap up, I provide a roadmap to navigate our episodes so you can find the support that resonates with you. I share key takeaways from each episode, my personal reflections, and some exciting announcements about what’s coming in season three.

Topics include:

Understanding the mental health crisis

• The role of technology
• Episode highlights, and pointers to the topics we covered
• My personal reflections on Season Two of the Women's Digital Health Podcast
• The first step you should take before exploring digital mental health solutions
• Future directions and plans for Season Three of the Women's Digital Health Podcast

I hope that this episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to integrate technology into their mental health journey. By providing a guide to previous episodes and sharing personal insights, I hope you'll feel more confident in taking charge of your mental health with the help of innovative digital solutions.

Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know about the launch of Season Three!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Listen to Dr. Brandi's episode of the Overlooked podcast: Where do we get our health information from?
• Sign up for the Women's Digital Health Newsletter

Subscribe to the Women's Digital Health Podcast wherever you're listening right now, and discover more about the intersection of technology, mental health, and personal development. And please share the podcast with anyone from your community who will benefit.

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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I had the pleasure of speaking with Reverend Sonia Russell, the CEO behind the Blackfullness mental health app. We delved into her journey, discussing how she overcame personal challenges when she discovered mindfulness.

Sonia shared insights into the app's features, which aims to support Black individuals in managing stress and promoting mindfulness through breathing techniques. The app was developed with a grant from the National Institutes of Health and focuses on making mindfulness accessible to a diverse community.

Blackfullness provides a platform for individuals to engage in mindfulness practices tailored to their needs, with different options based on emotional states like feeling overwhelmed or needing to center oneself. By incorporating technology, the app aims to reach a wider audience and provide a relatable space for Black individuals to explore mindfulness.

Topics include:

• Sonia's story, and how mindfulness has helped her.
• The power of focusing on your breath to help center your mind and body, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being.
• Why Sonia developed a digital app that is relatable and accessible to Black individuals seeking mental health support.
• What mindfulness is and isn't, and a powerful way to begin your practice.
• Future developments for Blackfullness.

Through a blend of technology, research, and community engagement, the Blackfullness app serves as a valuable resource for promoting mental well-being and self-awareness. Sonia's dedication to creating a platform that resonates with users and fosters a sense of empowerment underscores the app's mission to make mindfulness practices accessible and impactful for all.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Listen to Episode 11 of the Women's Digital Health podcast - Navigating Digital Mental Health: Digital Apps, Digital Therapeutics and Resources
• Visit Blackfullness
• Connect with Blackfullness on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
• Sign up for the Women's Digital Health Newsletter

Subscribe to the Women's Digital Health Podcast wherever you're listening right now, and discover more about the intersection of technology, mental health, and personal development. And please share the podcast with anyone from your communit

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Send us a text

This episode contains depictions of suicide and infanticide that you may find disturbing.

Did you know that 20% of pregnant women experience emotional or mood disorders? And while we don't always want to talk about it, suicide during the perinatal period is a leading cause of death in women.

My guest today is Dr. Dhami, a specialist in perinatal mental health. She shares valuable insights and resources for women facing perinatal mental health conditions and highlights the limited availability of specialized inpatient treatment for those affected.

Topics include:

• The importance of advocating for oneself when it comes to mental health care during pregnancy and postpartum.
• The importance of specialized inpatient treatment for pregnant individuals with emotional and mood disorders, and the need for more resources and programs dedicated to perinatal mental health.
• Technology's role in improving access to mental health care for pregnant and postpartum women, particularly when combined with in-person evaluation for more severe conditions.

If you need to talk to someone:

• Reach the National Suicide Prevention Line (USA) by dialing 988 on your phone or 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).
• Contact the Trevor Project (for suicide prevention and overall mental well-being of young LGBTQ lives) at https://www.thetrevorproject.org or call 866-488-7386.
• For anyone outside the USA, see https://befrienders.org/

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Suicide and Maternal Mortality | Current Psychiatry Reports
• Postpartum resources for mental health:
  • https://www.postpartum.net/
  • https://marcesociety.com/
  • https://womensmentalhealth.org/
  • The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale
• Inpatient Perinatal Hospitals
  • Perinatal Psychiatry Inpatient Unit - Center for Women's Mood Disorders (unc.edu)
  • Perinatal psychiatry services - Obstetrics and Gynecology | Northwell Health
  • Women’s Specialty Unit | El Camino Health

Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

Visit Women's Digital Health and subscribe to our newsletter.

Connect with Women's Digital Health on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.