The Henpicked Podcast

Living With Adenomyosis is a Henpicked Lunch & Learn session focused on understanding a common but often misunderstood menstrual health condition that affects millions of women — yet frequently goes undiagnosed for years. In this episode, Deborah Garlick, Founder of Henpicked, is joined by Henpicked's menstrual health expert Sally Leach to explore what adenomyosis is, how it differs from endometriosis, and why so many women are told their symptoms are "normal" — when they're anything but. Adenomyosis can cause severe period pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue, brain fog, bloating, and pelvic pain, with a profound impact on quality of life, mental health, relationships, and work. Despite affecting an estimated 1 in 10 women, awareness remains low — even among those living with it. This conversation covers: What adenomyosis actually is and how it affects the uterus Common symptoms — and why they're so often normalised The emotional and practical toll of living with chronic pain Why diagnosis can take years, and how to advocate for yourself The range of treatment options, from hormonal support to surgery Practical, lived-experience tips for managing symptoms day to day Why education and workplace understanding matter so much This session is part of Henpicked's commitment to opening up honest conversations about menstrual health, helping women feel informed, believed, and supported — at work and in life. 👉 You can also read Henpicked's in-depth article on adenomyosis here: Understanding Adenomyosis – https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub/understanding-adenomyosis/    00:00 – Welcome & why this conversation matters Why adenomyosis is painful, exhausting, confusing — and still widely misunderstood 02:20 – What is adenomyosis? How it affects the uterus and how it differs from endometriosis 05:50 – How common is adenomyosis really? UK and global prevalence — and why awareness is still so low 06:20 – Symptoms explained Heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, fatigue, brain fog, bloating and pain during sex 09:30 – What counts as "heavy" bleeding? Clear signs your period may not be normal 10:45 – "This is just part of being a woman" Why symptoms are normalised — and the harm that causes 12:30 – The emotional impact of living with chronic pain Mental health, relationships, isolation and unpredictability 13:50 – Why diagnosis takes so long Dismissal, delayed referrals and being told you're "unlucky" 17:40 – Getting specialist support When and why to ask for a gynaecology referral 18:10 – Treatment options explained Hormonal treatments, pain management and surgical options 21:00 – Medically induced menopause (GnRH analogues) What they are, how they work, and key considerations 23:10 – Living with adenomyosis day to day Pain management tools, emotional support and community 25:00 – Lifestyle & self-management tips Diet, movement, stress, rest and tracking symptoms 26:50 – Advocating for yourself at medical appointments Four key questions to ask when discussing treatment 29:10 – Raising awareness & breaking the silence Why talking about adenomyosis matters — at home and at work 30:00 – Closing thoughts & next Henpicked Lunch & Learn   Follow Henpicked: Website: https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/henpickednet/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/henpicked Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/henpickedcommunity/  If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it — awareness changes lives.

How does menopause affect your mindset and how does your mindset affect your menopause? Is there a connection between the way we think and the way we experience menopause? Find out more in this session…   Prof Mary Ann Lumsden is Hon Professor of Medical Education & Gynaecology, at the University of Glasgow. She retired from active practice in Glasgow in 2021 due to commitments as CEO, International Federation Obstetrics and Gynaecology (FIGO), a global charity for improvement in women's health. She was instrumental in setting up the first Menopause Clinic in Edinburgh in 1989 and involved in the care of women with Menopausal and Menstrual Disorders since. Prof Lumsden has cared for women with menopausal and menstrual disorders (particularly those women with uterine fibroids) for over 30 years. She has particular interest in mid-life women's health including chronic disease prevention (e.g. cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis) as well as women with medical problems who need advice on management of menopausal symptoms. Also, she has advised on the care of women after cancer both young and older. Deborah Garlick is the Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, Deborah is a leading voice in raising awareness about menopause and supporting women in navigating this stage of life. She's passionate about empowering women and ensuring that menopause is understood as a natural life stage.  

Does taking the Pill affect your mental health? How do hormones change your brain through the menstrual cycle? How can you navigate change and empower yourself? This session tackles what you need to know… Meet the speakers: Kate Muir is a filmmaker and author of Everything You Need to Know About the Pill and Everything You Need to Know About the Menopause. She produced Channel 4 documentaries on menopause and the pill with Davina McCall. Read up on Everything You Need to Know About the Pill by Kate Muir for more in-depth insights. Deborah Garlick is the Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, Deborah is a leading voice in raising awareness about menopause and supporting women in navigating this stage of life. She's passionate about empowering women and ensuring that menopause is understood as a natural life stage.      

Here's Dr Imogen Shaw of Hormone Health. This session tackles one of the most frequently asked and often misunderstood topics around menopause: vaginal health. Whether it's dealing with dryness, discomfort, or changes that come with menopause, this will arm you with expert advice and practical solutions to keep you feeling confident and comfortable. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Here's two inspiring winners from the Menopause Friendly Employer Awards: Lou Furby of Specsavers and Julie Cridland of Aster Group. One of the biggest questions we still get is: How do you get your employer on board? In this session, we heard from these trailblazing menopause legends. Discussed their top tips on convincing stakeholders, getting the conversations started, and, most importantly, keeping them going. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Half of women over 50 will experience a fracture, yet bone changes start much earlier, often unnoticed. But there's so much we can do now to stay stronger for longer. In this session, we cover essential insights on bone health and practical steps you can take. Join Henpicked's Deborah Garlick and Dr Bill Robertson-Smith, a dedicated Women's Bone Health Researcherm Campaigner and Senior Surgical Care Practitioner in Sarcoma and Arthroplasty (NHS). This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Did you know that what you eat can significantly impact your menstrual cycle? Did you know your nutritional needs change throughout your cycle and during the menopause transition?  We're joined by Jackie Lynch, founder of the WellWellWell Nutrition Clinic where she specialises in women's health and the menopause. Jackie is a regular contributor of nutrition features in the media and her clinical work has inspired her to publish the following books: The Happy Menopause – Smart Nutrition to Help You Flourish (2020) Va Va Voom: The 10-Day Energy Diet (Headline, 2017) The Right Bite: Smart Food Choices for Eating on the Go (Nourish 2016) This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

What's really in the period products you use? How do they impact your health and the planet? And what are the best options available today? For years, mainstream period care has been keeping everyone in the dark, selling period care filled with hidden irritants and plastic. Mooncup believe in period care made only with ingredients that do your vagina and vulva some good. Get right up to date on vagina-friendly and eco-friendly options, ingredient transparency, and new insights. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Can natural approaches help after a menopause and cancer diagnosis? The experience can be devastating, but what steps can you take to support your recovery and get back to good health? Antonia de Gier is a registered nutritional therapist, who has trained at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION) to understand the latest research in hormone health. She has a Diploma at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION); Bachelor of Science honours degree at the Centre for Nutritional Excellence and Lifestyle Management (CNELM) affiliated with Middlesex University; Helped to set up and worked at the Food Doctor and is a tutor at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION). This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Balancing work, home life and family pressures, alongside menopause symptoms you might experience, can feel overwhelming. But what can you do about it? We'll be exploring this topic and what we can all do to feel good during our menopause journey. As part of our Lunch & Learn series of webinars, here, Deborah Garlick of Henpicked is joined by  Lavina Mehta MBE of Feel Good with Lavina, author of "The Feel Good Fix". Lavina, a Personal Trainer, Wellness Coach, mum of 3, featured on TV & RadioAbout Me. mission is to help ALL ages to FEEL GOOD physically & mentally. Her slogan is to "Exercise for Sanity not Vanity." She was awarded an MBE for her services in Health & Fitness over the covid pandemic in the Oct 2020 Queen's honours list. She's very passionate about promoting the health benefits of exercise to treat, prevent & reduce risks of chronic diseases like Diabetes & Heart Disease, so prevalent in Asian communities. Pre-COVID she launched a National press campaign to "Get UK Asians Fit!" This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

Are you aware of how prolapse and incontinence can impact your daily life and well-being? Do you know the best strategies to manage these conditions effectively, especially in a work environment? Join our FREE Lunch & Learn where Henpicked's Deborah Garlick and Dr Surya Gupta-Wright from My Menopause Centre will be discussing exactly this. Dr. Surya brings years of experience in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and holds Diplomas from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health. She is also a registered menopause specialist with the British Menopause Society. Dr. Surya's expertise is further enriched by her work in a Menopause Research Unit in London, where she addressed complex menopause cases and contributed to important research projects.

We know that around one in four women consider leaving work due to menopause symptoms, and one in ten actually do leave according to the Fawcett Society Report. But many of these women have valuable skills and talent to offer to workplaces. We're joined by Morna Ronnie of the People Portfolio as she explains more about how her returner programmes are supporting women after they're left their career due to menopausal symptoms to retrun to, and thrive at work. People Portfolio are looking to work with companies committed to being menopause friendly, or who have achieved The Menopause Friendly Accreditation to run a pilot fo their returner programme for menopausal women: Revive and Thrive. Please contact morna@thepeopleportfolio.co.uk if if you'd like to find out more, so that an initial exploratory discussion can be set up. About Morna Ronnie: Morna Ronnie is the founder of the People Portfolio. Her 30-year career to date has included supporting people in a range of ways, from recruitment to outplacement and psychometrics to training and development. In the last 5 years she has used this knowledge to design and deliver a range of Women Returner programmes, some of which were funded by The Scottish Government and specifically supported women of menopausal age.  Passionate about supporting somen to thrive at work, she is also a Menopause Workplace Trainer licensed by Henpicked, delivering their CPD accredited training. Are you interested in making your workplace menopause friendly? Visit www.menopausefriendly.co.uk to learn more.

What does HRT do? What are the benefits of HRT? Is HRT safe? Can HRT cause cancer? Your questions answered with expert information here. Henpicked Menopause in the Workplace's Deborah Garlick was joined by Dr Clare Spencer of My Menopause Centre. Dr Clare is a registered menopause specialist and an NHS GP. She qualified from Cambridge University and holds membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of General Practitioners. She initially trained in obstetrics and gynaecology where she gained a Doctor of Medicine for research in fetomaternal medicine. As well as her role of Clinical Director at My Menopause Centre, she currently runs an NHS menopause service and is a GP partner in a practice in Leeds. She is also a British Menopause Society menopause trainer and is involved in educating GPs about the menopause transition through talks, lectures and seminars. She wrote the menopause training module for doctors.net and has written for the Primary Care Women's Health forum publication, Her Life Her Health, on a variety of menopause-related topics. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub

We all may have heard the word "endometriosis". But what does it feel like to live with it? What advice might help? How can people be best supported? We're joined by Menstruation Friendly Independent Panel Member Vickie Williams to shine a light on the topic. Vickie, driven by her own experience with endometriosis, pursued a PhD in People and Organisations at The Open University UK, focusing on endometriosis in the workplace and the impact of menstrual policy. She holds a first-class honours degree in Business Management from King's College London, where her interest in gender and organisational studies began, particularly regarding women's workplace experiences. Before her PhD, Vickie spent seven years as a Digital Account Director in film and creative agencies across London. Concurrently, she trained in women's health and established her own business to support individuals with endometriosis and other gynaecological conditions. Vickie has shared her expertise on endometriosis at prominent venues, including Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, and the International Critical Management Studies conference. Her personal and professional experiences provide her with unique insights into the challenges faced by women with invisible and often debilitating gynaecological conditions. She is particularly interested in how workplace structures and practices can better accommodate these conditions, aiming to improve the work environment for affected individuals.

We frequently hear women say 'I thought I had dementia' when going through the menopause. But do you know what causes this? Do you know whether HRT helps and what the research says? Expert information here. Henpicked Menopause in the Workplace's Deborah Garlick was joined by Dr Clare Spencer of My Menopause Centre. Dr Clare is a registered menopause specialist and an NHS GP. She qualified from Cambridge University and holds membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of General Practitioners. She initially trained in obstetrics and gynaecology where she gained a Doctor of Medicine for research in fetomaternal medicine. As well as her role of Clinical Director at My Menopause Centre, she currently runs an NHS menopause service and is a GP partner in a practice in Leeds. She is also a British Menopause Society menopause trainer and is involved in educating GPs about the menopause transition through talks, lectures and seminars. She wrote the menopause training module for doctors.net and has written for the Primary Care Women's Health forum publication, Her Life Her Health, on a variety of menopause-related topics.

Do you know the impact the menopause has on your bone health? Do you know how this could affect you? Listen in to hear more and what you can do to improve your bone health for life! Henpicked Menopause in the Workplace's Deborah Garlick was joined by Kat Bright, Co-founder of The Health Boost. Kat Bright is a nutritional therapist and co-founder of The Health Boost. She firmly believes that optimal health doesn't end at 40 and with the right nutrition and exercise we can all thrive in our midlife and beyond. Kat supports women to find and support the root cause of their health and weight issues through bespoke nutrition and lifestyle programmes. Her goal is to inspire you to cultivate new habits that enhance your overall well-being, instilling a profound sense of confidence in your body. About Henpicked Menopause Hub https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating.

Do you know why it's so important to move and exercise during menopause? Or how they positively impact mental health? ally Bolton has been a health and fitness coach since 2009 and over the last 2 years she has specialised in menopause health. Since then she has delivered training to private groups of women, educating them on menopause and how to manage symptoms through their lifestyle habits. Sally is a Henpicked: Menopause Workplace Trainer and has delivered colleague and manager training in various organisations including the education sector, charities and other professional services. Her mission is to educate and support as many individuals and organisations as possible, to help raise awareness, break the taboo, and normalise the conversation around menopause.  She believes that it is important for everybody to have a level of understanding, so we can all support each other through something that is inevitable for 51% of the population. About Henpicked Menopause Hub https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating.

Struggling with hot flushes but don't want to take HRT, or can't take HRT? Do you want to know abut the latest developments and what else is available to help you? Henpicked Menopause in the Workplace's Deborah Garlick was joined by Dr Clare Spencer of My Menopause Centre. Dr Clare is a registered menopause specialist and an NHS GP. She qualified from Cambridge University and holds membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of General Practitioners. She initially trained in obstetrics and gynaecology where she gained a Doctor of Medicine for research in fetomaternal medicine. As well as her role of Clinical Director at My Menopause Centre, she currently runs an NHS menopause service and is a GP partner in a practice in Leeds. She is also a British Menopause Society menopause trainer and is involved in educating GPs about the menopause transition through talks, lectures and seminars. She wrote the menopause training module for doctors.net and has written for the Primary Care Women's Health forum publication, Her Life Her Health, on a variety of menopause-related topics. About Henpicked Menopause Hub https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating.

Menopause is part of every woman's life, yet a legacy of poor information and communication still leaves many of us wondering what's happening and what we can do to navigate this major transition in our life. We'll be exploring this topic and what we can all do to feel in control of our menopause journey with Nigel Denby of Harley Street at Home. Nigel Denby is a registered dietitian, author of ten successful nutrition books and a broadcaster across television and radio both in the UK and Europe. Dietitian of the Year 2013, Nigel is the author of The Denby Report – the leading and authoritative review of nutritional subjects. His special areas of clinical interest include: Weight Management; Women's Health and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.   Nigel is registered with the Health Professions Council and Nutrition advisor to Women's Health Concern – and as well as his areas of speciality, he also works with patients in the dietary management of chronic and acute medical conditions including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and a wide range of digestive and endocrine disorders.   About Henpicked Menopause Hub https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. Do you struggle with it? Do you want to know what you can do to manage your symptoms? Find out in this episode with Jackie Lynch of WellWellWell Nutrition Clinic. Jackie Lynch specialises in women's health and the menopause. She's a regular contributor of nutrition features in the media and her clinical work has inspired her to publish the following books: Va Va Voom: The 10-Day Energy Diet (Headline, 2017) The Right Bite: Smart Food Choices for Eating on the Go (Nourish 2016) And her amazing latest book, The Happy Menopause – smart nutrition to help you flourish (2020). She's also the host of the popular diet & lifestyle podcast, The Happy Menopause. https://henpicked.net/menopause-hub This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menstruation and menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Support this Podcast by subscribing/following its FREE and really helps us produce more content just like this episode. If you enjoy this Podcast why not leave a 5 star review or rating.