”What the Forties?” with Dr. Briana Botsford - A Lifespan View of Menopause

Today’s episode with naturopathic physician, Dr. Briana Botsford, looks at Perimenopause, not as an isolated period of time - but as part of a whole human story, a lifespan approach to examining a particular phase of life.

We also discuss:
1. Why pregnancy and perimenopause look a lot alike
2.  Doctors like Dr. Bri are still really learning about how to recognize and help women who are experiencing effects of perimenopause.
3. Why there is resistance when patients are confronted with a "diagnosis" of perimenopause.
4. How the medical response to menopause is influenced by the cultural demand for more information.
5. How our understanding of menopause is changing for each generation: Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millenials, and Gen Y
6. How we can change the cultural stigma around aging for women... maybe throw a menopause party?
7.  The 9-5 work-world is not necessarily designed for human health needs -- it increases stress and may even contribute to effects like hot flashes
8. An explanation of Naturopathic medicine and how to find a good naturopathic physician
9.  Check out Bri's TikToks and Reels.
10. How doctors can help to remove the shame and stigma of perimenopause by encouraging us to talk about our vulvar and vaginal sensations.
11. Bree shares her own TMI moment about genital discomfort and cycling in Mexico.
12.  We talk about the estrogenic roller coaster and some of the effects it can have.
13. We also talk about Hormone Therapy -- including topical estrogen
14. We talk how hormones affect, not only vaginal dryness and hot flashes but also the pelvic floor and also mental health.
15. The discussion with our doctors does not end with a prescription -- our bodies are shifting and may need different approaches.
16. Identity shifts: more parallels between Motherhood and Menopause
17. The power of peri and post-menopause.  (Thank you Helen Mirren and Meryl Streep.)
18. Dr. Bri's advice for women in perimenopause/menopause: Strength Training!

Links:

 http:/instagram.com/docbribots/
http:/www.facebook.com/drbrianabotsford
www.bribotsford.com
www.flowyeg.ca 

American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (https://naturopathic.org/default.aspx)

****
ONE MORE THING!

Did you love this episode? Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or send a quick voicemail to let me know what you think! (I LOVE to hear your voice too!)

And if you'd like to work with me to maximize your moments, find greater fulfillment in your career, and clear away societal expectations to make room for YOUR dreams, visit me at www.thelovelyunbecoming.com/

Stay curious, y'all!

xoBree

P.S. All of these episodes are possible thanks to:
Codebase Coworking
as well as my dear friends over at WTJU Charlottesville!