On Health

It’s a startling and unfortunate reality that too many Americans are unable to access the medications they need for their basic healthcare, and that on top of this, billions of dollars' worth of pharmaceuticals go to waste annually, causing environmental pollution as well. Joining me today is none other than a trailblazer who needs no introduction as she embarks on a transformative mission to create a BETR way! After 19 remarkable seasons on one of the most beloved television series of our time, Grey's Anatomy, Ellen Pompeo has stepped away from her on-screen scrubs to advocate for better access to healthcare.  In our conversation today, we explore:  What Ellen has learned from fans and nurses about just how broken the healthcare system is Ellen’s sense of personal social responsibility and her desire to be a role model to her own kids How she is using her recognition from playing a doctor-on-TV for good, with a focus on fixing the broken pharmaceutical industry through BETR Remedies Why health and social equity are so important to Ellen Ellen’s non-negotiable wellness habits and finding balance as a working mother Navigating menopause, blood sugar, and more The confidence and wisdom that come with getting older Join me for this insightful, candid, and thought-provoking episode and get ready to experience Ellen Pompeo like never before as we uncover her passion for healthcare, self-care, and her dedication to creating meaningful change.  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Ellen on Instagram @ellenpompeo and visit www.betrremedies.com

Are you concerned about the impact of birth control pills on your fertility? It's only natural to prioritize the well-being of your body and future fertility. And rest assured, you're not alone. A recent study of over 2,000 women who used oral contraceptives (OCs) found that most women had some worries. Fortunately, there's enough reassuring data that should allow you to breathe a major sigh of relief, all of which I'll delve into today with another special "Let’s Chat About That" episode of On Health. Listen in as I respond to a heartfelt voicemail from a listener who's worried that previous birth control pill use has ruined her fertility. In this episode we'll explore: Common myths and misconceptions about how the birth control pill works, and hint, it's not really by regulating your menstrual cycle. Women's biggest fears about how the Pill and other hormonal contraceptives might affect fertility in the long run Whether there's truth to the fear that the Pill, etc., impacts fertility, with an in-depth breakdown of the data How long does it take to get your cycle back when coming off the Pill How to plan and time conception when coming off the Pill, while avoiding unnecessary infertility workups, including what you need to know about OCs and ovarian reserve Adolescent pill use and its impact on long-term fertility Support for ovarian and hormonal health after coming off hormonal birth control Whether you should take "Pill" holidays if you're a long-term OC user And more! If you've been on the Pill and are hoping to conceive soon, are already trying, or just want answers to alleviate fears, this episode is the most comprehensive review you'll find. Want to be part of the next "Let's Chat About That?" Do it! Just ring me at (413) 889-4549 and leave a voicemail for a chance to have your question featured in the next one! Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

In a recent development, the US Preventive Services Task Force sounded the alarm about the increasing prevalence of hypertensive disorders among pregnant women. They have advised monitoring blood pressure throughout pregnancy since these disorders have doubled in the last three decades, impacting one in ten pregnancies. Unfortunately, the United States lags in maternal health, bearing a troublingly high maternal mortality rate compared to other countries. While the newly recommended guidelines are undeniably important, it is crucial to delve deeper into the root causes that contribute to this and the growing number of other chronic health problems showing up in pregnancy. On today's episode of On Health, I have the privilege of being joined once again by the remarkable Dr. Neel Shah, a forward-thinking OBGYN and the Chief Medical Officer of Maven Clinic. Together, we delve into the heart of the maternal health crisis, exploring its multifaceted origins, and discuss important new ways of thinking about critical problems. We examine the profound societal challenges that impact maternal health and emphasize the urgent need for and significance of personalized care and the promising role of emerging digital healthcare solutions in supporting pregnant individuals. Furthermore, we address the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the impact of forced isolation on maternal health. It is of utmost importance that we continue to raise awareness about maternal health and strive for comprehensive changes that prioritize the well-being of both mothers and babies in this country. By tackling the underlying factors that contribute to these challenges and ensuring access to meaningful care, we can achieve healthier outcomes for all, including the most vulnerable members of society. Dr. Neel and I discuss: COVID-19, lack of labor support, isolation, and other unforeseen obstacles for pregnant people Systemic racism and the impact of weathering on maternal mortality rates Dr. Neel’s firsthand experience as a practicing OBGYN during the pandemic The dangers of generalizing and the importance of working directly with pregnant people on their individual needs A breakdown of what pregnant or aspiring pregnant people deserve from the healthcare system The goal of the Maven Clinic app and the potential of digital maternal care options Dr. Neel’s perspective on the centering pregnancy model Why Dr. Neel feels that competence, reliability, and affirmation are required to move the needle in creating systemic change in maternal care Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Dr. Neel @neel_t_shah, check out the Maven Clinic App and more @mavenclinic

In the ever-changing landscape of trends and choices, it's important to separate the fleeting fads from the timeless practices. Today, we embark on an insightful journey, shining a light on two prominent trends that have taken center stage: Intermittent Fasting (IMF) and Time-Based Eating (TBE) and their profound impact on women's bodies. Join me as I peel back the layers, shedding light on the unique methodologies of IMF and TBE. We’ll explore the known benefits and potential risks and provide you with valuable insights to help you make informed decisions that resonate with your individual needs and aspirations, no matter what stage of life you're in. So, take a moment to settle in and let me guide you through the realms of IMF and TBE. Together, we'll navigate the path to optimal women's health and weight management, offering a nurturing and supportive perspective that honors the journey of womanhood. Get ready to embrace a balanced and empowering approach to well-being that will leave you feeling nourished, rejuvenated, and inspired for years to come.  In this episode, I talk about: The main differences between and the science behind both IMF/TBE What we know (and don’t know) about the benefits – and risks – for women, specifically Why I don’t recommend IMF as robustly as I do TBE How to avoid having a negative impact on your reproductive hormones while doing TBE, especially if you’re very physically active My advice for a moderate TBE approach that’s safe and beneficial for pretty much everyone Who should not practice TBE My personal approach to TBE and what I recommend in my practice   Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

Over the course of her twenty-year medical career, my guest today, Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, noticed a shocking dearth of information and support for women beginning and experiencing menopause. For too long, this crucial stage in women’s lives has been given perfunctory notice in medical schools and is often either a hidden secret or the punchline to a joke—denying women the information and support they need. This disregard, coupled with the unconscious misogyny and ageism that run rampant in our culture, portrays menopause as something to be afraid of, and worse, adds a patina of shame around the blessing of ageing and the beginnings of a new, normal, and enriching phase in a woman’s life.   Dr. Suzanne, as her patients call her, believes that the millions of women entering menopause each year deserve thoughtful, candid, modern, holistic information about the physical and psychological issues that arise in this transitional stage, including changes in libido, metabolism, body image, and fears over genetic age-related illnesses. She contends that menopause is a whole-life condition and deserves a wide-ranging approach that combines meditation, yoga, therapy, herbal supplements, along with the most up-to-date science with conventional medical solutions. And this is all part of her approach in her "Menopause Bootcamp" gatherings and book of that title. In this episode of On Health, Dr. Suzanne shares her insights and advice on how to not only survive menopause but also thrive and embrace this new chapter of life. From the importance of community and self-love to the use of botanicals and so much more, Dr. Suzanne's holistic approach to menopause is a game-changer for women everywhere. So sit back, relax, and join us as we explore and gain the tools necessary to take on this transformative and empowering stage of life with confidence and ease.   Suzanne and I get into: What ultimately inspired her to shift her focus on all things menopause The Menopause Bootcamp and the importance of community during this transition Taking a closer look at internalized misogyny as women Normalizing the grieving process for the loss of who we once were The link between the mental health crisis and the menopausal transition The common symptoms associated with menopause: sleep, weight gain, brain fog, and more. Botanicals, cannabis-based products, and other recommendations to minimize the mood shifts associated with menopause Mentally and physically navigating weight gain during this hormonal shift Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Suzanne at @askdrsuzanne and order her book, The Menopause Bootcamp, here!

Are you overwhelmed by the number of birth control options available and wondering which one is right for you? Are you confused about the safety of various contraceptives? Confused about whether to use the Pill or another contraceptive method for PCOS, endometriosis, acne, or another hormonal condition?   There’s no denying that it can be daunting. With so much confusing and contradictory information out there, how can we separate facts from fiction to make an informed decision? Fear not: In today’s episode, I share my 35+ years of experience and research on birth control methods from my vantage point as a midwife and MD who appreciates the range of options available to us to take control of our reproductive lives. I dive into the pros and cons of common forms of contraception, the safest, most effective, and most convenient methods, and, importantly, how to pick the method that best suits your unique, personal needs at this time in your life. No judgement, no fearmongering—just good, honest information. I jam about: The various methods of birth control available from the Pill to IUDs, condoms, fertility awareness, and more. The pros, cons, safety issues, and comparative efficacy of these various methods My thoughts on the Pill as a physician —and when I prescribe it How to choose birth control based on your current needs—and what to take into consideration Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

In this episode of On Health, I dive deep into the science and culture of our menstrual cycles with Kate Clancy, PhD, period researcher and expert in the field of reproductive biology who has dedicated her life’s work to advocating for menstrual health and wellbeing. We explore the myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation, as well as the social stigma that often accompany it. Kate sheds light on the latest research in menstrual biology, from the role of hormones to the microbiome of the uterus. We also discuss the cultural and historical factors that have shaped our attitudes towards menstruation and how these attitudes impact women's experiences today. But we don't stop there. We also delve into the controversial topic of COVID-19 vaccines and how they may affect our menstrual cycles. Kate shares her insights based on the latest research, her own personal experience, and a survey she did which received 165,000 responses. Kate and I discuss: Why she decided to study and dedicate her life’s work to menstruation Iron deficiency and periods: is there a correlation? The nuanced topic of period suppression and the implications of birth control Her infamous tweet about the COVID-19 vaccine, her findings, and her own personal experience Vaccine trials, research, and the dangerous lack of menstrual inclusion and acknowledgement Dispelling some of the myths surrounding what is considered "normal" and "abnormal" as it pertains to menstrual cycles The importance of paying attention to our bodies while also understanding that levels of variation in our cycles are to be expected Dr. Clancy's work is a reminder that menstrual health is an important and often overlooked aspect of overall health and well-being. By increasing awareness and education surrounding this topic, we can break down the societal stigma and empower individuals to better understand and care for their bodies. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Follow Kate at @clancy_kate and check out her book at www.kateclancy.com

CONTENT WARNING: Sexual assault  Did you know that it takes only 3.5 years to sail around the world but up to 10 years to get an endometriosis diagnosis? That three out of four women experience pain during intercourse at some point in their lives? Or that nearly half of all women aged 18 to 35 have trouble reaching orgasm with a partner, and most women don't score their sexual satisfaction as very high?    These statistics are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the vast spectrum of issues that women face with regards to their reproductive and sexual health.    And did you know that women, like myself, who try to talk about this -- and even things like birth and breastfeeding, on social media platforms have been censored while overtly sexual ads for male issues are overtly promoted?   Unfortunately, this pervasive culture of censorship silences crucial information from being shared among women and hinders progress towards achieving equity and wellbeing around important women's health issues.    Enter Jackie Rotman, founder and CEO of the Center for Intimacy Justice. Jackie is an inspiring activist and creative whose work on social media equity has been instrumental in changing policies so that women's voices can be heard and women's health needs can be more openly discussed on Meta (Facebook, Instagram).    Join me for this latest On Health episode where Jackie and I discuss:  The pleasure gap: what it is and why it needs to change Why women's reports of sexual satisfaction are so much different than men's How internet censorship around women's health affects our knowledge and empowerment  The personal experiences that inspired Jackie to focus her substantial intellectual power on internet censorship and sexual health bias  How stifling and censoring women's health affects the reach of business by women, for women, and favors the growth of men's businesses into the women's health space.  This is a must-listen episode for all of us trying to find health information and thrive in our modern internet world.  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Jackie @jackierotman1 and check out The Center for Intimacy Justice

As parents, it’s instinctual that our number one priority is to ensure that our daughters grow up as happy and healthy as possible. So with the very real phenomenon of early puberty on the rise, it's understandable that many of us have growing concerns about it.   On today’s episode of On Health, we'll be exploring early puberty, including the various environmental and social factors that could be contributing to this trend, what we can do starting at a young age to promote healthy hormonal and reproductive functioning, as well as how to recognize the signs of early puberty and address them in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, healthcare provider, or just want to know about this important topic, I know you'll find this episode informative and reassuring.   In this episode, I talk about: Factors causing or contributing to the rise of early puberty in our girls Why we think the COVID-19 pandemic increased the rates of early puberty around the world Early puberty as a 6th Vital Sign The signs of early puberty that parents and physicians should know and recognize Best health and life-style prevention practices De-stigmatizing puberty and practicing open communication with our girls   Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Together, we can give our girls the support and protection they need to emerge into womanhood with confidence and ease. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, body size, and other factors have a significant bearing on whether you will be diagnosed and treated correctly. And health-care bias can mean the difference not just between suffering and relief but between life and death.  On today’s episode of On Health, my guest, Angela Marshall MD, a board-certified internist, founder of Comprehensive Women's Health, Inc., and the author of the new book, Dismissed: Tackling the Biases that Undermine Our Health, shares the personal tragedy she experienced as a young mother and medical student that transformed the way she was to practice medicine, brings us front and centre into some of the core biases getting in the way of people getting good healthcare, and offers pragmatic solutions for providers to address and overcome their biases within a broken system.  Angela not only explains what so many people feel so profoundly—that the system is working against them. It also reveals what healthcare practitioners, patients, and society in general can do to make it right. For anyone who has ever felt vulnerable while navigating the healthcare system, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we delve into this vital topic and shed light on the ways in which biases impact patient care.  Angela and I discuss: How the death of a dear friend - a black woman MD, due to medical dismissal and the loss of her own infant son, also due to medical dismissal, have now galvanized her approach to being a physician. The deep-rooted indoctrination into biases that continues to exist within medical education and the healthcare system - and what needs to be done to enact real change Fat shaming and the importance of finding a provider you feel comfortable and safe with in a medical setting How we can better advocate for ourselves when we are in medical settings, and when it's time to break up with your doctor How we can find grace and compassion for ourselves when we've experienced medical dismissal.  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Angela @angelawmarshall, find her book and learn more about Premedical Explorers at www.angelamarshallmd.com

Have you wondered if you or someone you know has Long COVID? It's VERY possible! As of 2023, the CDC estimates that 1 in 5 people, as many as 1 in 3 college students, and a preponderance of menopausal women who have had COVID still experience symptoms more than 3 months—or more—after being infected. Long COVID continues to impact the everyday lives of countless "long haulers" globally.  On today’s episode, I'm joined by journalist Fiona Lowenstein, an early and prominent voice in the Long COVID patient movement, who wrote the New York Times article that first blew the lid open on Long COVID. Fiona's story sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of long haulers, highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the condition, and provides hope that healing can happen over time. We discuss: Fiona's experience as part of the first wave of people who got sick with COVID in NYC and how little the medical community knew how to help them The major gap between what COVID long-haulers are experiencing and medical testing Medical gaslighting, racism, homophobia, and how these systemic biases affect many people's abilities to get help The similarities between Long COVID and chronic fatigue syndrome and the realities of post-viral illnesses  The effects of Long COVID from mental health challenges to neurological issues, chronic fatigue, POTS, and more. How Fiona's started their online peer support group and how this group helps other COVID long-haulers What Fiona wishes people who don’t have Long COVID knew about living with the illness and the change they wish to see in the medical community If you or a loved one is dealing with Long COVID or another invisible illness, I hope that this podcast offers hope, empowerment, and support. Please send this to someone who needs reassurance that they are not alone, or a friend, to help them better understand the realities of chronic invisible disease. Thank you for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Fiona at @fi_lowenstein, check out the Mutual Aid Book Exchange, grab a copy of her book and learn more about The Body Politic at www.fionalowenstein.com

If your teen daughter is struggling with period pain and you're looking for answers - or you're a teen here for yourself - this episode is for you. Period pain, or what’s medically known as dysmenorrhea, has become such a normalized part of the menstrual experience, so much so that regularly taking ibuprofen to numb the discomfort and skipping out on important life obligations is something we’ve come to blindly accept as "normal" - which we owe ourselves more than to believe. Our periods should not be painful! So too, when it comes to our teenage daughters. But if that's the case, what level of discomfort is actually considered "normal?" And when is it time to search for possible underlying causes? On today’s episode of On Health, I’ll be addressing period pain in our teens, the key role our 'hormonal ecosystem' plays and what it means when I say that our menstrual cycle is a 6th Vital Sign. We'll explore conventional and integrative practices to help relieve menstrual pain, how to reframe the way our daughters view their periods from a monthly curse to a useful indicator of overall systemic wellness, and more. After all, given that we have about 400 periods in our lifetime, learning how we can influence and support ourselves throughout our menstrual cycles at an early age can set us up for decades of greater ease and health!  In this episode, I talk about: The menstrual cycle as the 6th vital sign and why it’s an important indicator of overall health The difference between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea Why period pain should never be dismissed, especially when it interferes with your life Proactive lifestyle and dietary approaches to address the root causes of menstrual pain How to determine when it’s appropriate to take NSAIDS like ibuprofen and other medications My herbal and supplement recommendations for menstrual discomfort, including whether there's a role for cannabis in period pain in teens Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. And remember, you can call in a question, too! Just dial (413) 889-4549 and leave your message!

Imagine opening an email that contains a revelation that rocks your world to the core, forcing you to completely rethink your origin and your identity- this is exactly what happened to my guest on today's On Health Podcast episode, Dani Shapiro. Every family has secrets. Some are buried and never spoken about, some are maturely disclosed, and others are inconveniently discovered. These discoveries have the ability to shake us to the core and shatter our entire world, especially when related to something as serious as our identity. With the most recent advancements in at-home genetic testing kits like 23andMe and Ancestry.com, these earth-shaking stories are becoming the norm, and the reality of anonymous sperm donors and shady fertility clinics of the past are finally being exposed, creating a painful realization for those coming to learn the truth about who they really are. My guest today is no stranger to this particular kind of pain. With 11 critically acclaimed books under her belt and a hit podcast, Dani Shapiro has dedicated her entire adult life to the exploration of family secrets, weaving personal experience into her work and shining a light on what's been left in the dark. After a test result from a random at-home ancestry.com kit revealed the truth about her father, her entire world was turned upside down at the age of 54, and today, she’s sharing her story. Join us as we discuss: The truth of my own family secret and how it affected me as a young girl How increased access to DNA tests and ancestry kits is unraveling some deep mysteries and secrets for many but few were even looking for The history of assisted reproductive medicine and the shame around male infertility, especially in the 60s Dani's insights on healing and forgiveness, both how they can happen and when it just seems they can’t happen Healing the mother wound - even and especially if we have a rocky relationship with our own mothers Anonymous sperm donors and how it may be essential to our health to know where we come from The ultimate question- do family secrets need to be brought to light or can they remain secrets? and so much more! Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Dani @daniwriter and grab a copy of her books at danishapiro.com

TRIGGER WARNING: Miscarriage and pregnancy loss.  Both physically and emotionally, there is very little that can prepare a woman for something 1 in 4 of us will experience in our lifetime: miscarriage. Early pregnancy loss is a complex topic that has consistently been high on the list of what many healthcare providers, journalists, and female podcasters consider to be taboo to dive deeply into - or even discuss at all, for fear of being perceived as negative. And in this post-Roe era, it’s all the more complicated as women are being denied not just abortion services - but miscarriage support - even sometimes in emergencies.  With the complexities of the current reproductive health landscape, I felt now would be a timely and appropriate moment to share an episode from 2020, where I walk you through the miscarriage process from start to finish. In today’s climate, with strict abortion laws and difficulty accessing the medications needed for at-home miscarriage, it’s all the more important that we, as women, have the knowledge about what to expect and how to safely miscarry, should we or someone we love choose or be forced to, either at home or otherwise.    Join me as I discuss:   The signs and symptoms of early pregnancy loss and the different types of miscarriage  The options for miscarriage care including watch and wait, medications, and surgical procedures   What to expect in a miscarriage  Tips and best practices for an optimal at-home miscarriage experience  Herbal recommendations for when the miscarriage begins - Find more information in the accompanying article, here!    How to determine when medical care and attention is needed  Miscarriage aftercare and when you can try again    If you are living in a state with strict abortion laws where it’s difficult to access the medications needed for a medication miscarriage approach at home, be sure to check out my podcast interview with Imani Wilson-Shabazz of Plan C, an organization dedicated to helping women easily and affordably access the medications used to manage both an abortion and a miscarriage.    I hope that this episode provides you with all you need to know to fell less alone and to know miscarriage isn't your fault, and how to make an informed decision about the miscarriage options that work best for you and your individual situation without shame, how to feel more empowered about this common experience, and how speak up for yourself if necessary to get the care you need.  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

From chronic fatigue to Lyme’s disease to COVID to autoimmune conditions, "invisible" illnesses and those who suffer from them are often disbelieved. It's often a struggle to receive a diagnosis, and more often than not, sufferers do not receive the adequate care they need. Lack of knowledge and understanding from medical providers may lead women to remain silent and hide their suffering, live with persistent symptoms, as well as facing isolation, depression, and anxiety. So where does one even start if suffering from an invisible illness and how does one begin the journey towards reclaiming your own life? Tune into today’s episode of On Health to find out My guest today, Meghan O'Rourke, is the author of the New York Times bestseller and absolute must-read, The Invisible Kingdom: Re-Imagining Chronic Illness. In her twenties, Meghan began suffering from mysterious symptoms ranging from crushing fatigue to rashes to strange neurologic symptoms. The decade long search for a diagnosis led her down a long path of discoveries about conventional, integrative alternative medicine - and herself! Her book and wisdom is a healing balm for anyone struggling with or who loves someone with chronic disease. In this episode, we discuss: What an invisible illness is, and some of the most common known conditions for which women are most commonly dismissed Meghan's journey of seeking a diagnosis and treatment for a constellation of symptoms while redefining her sense of self as someone with an invisible illness. Medical gaslighting, self-gaslighting, and gender as obstacles to women receiving proper medical care The role online groups and alternative medicine played in finally getting a diagnosis Why it's so important to deeply trust her your body and learn to discern is -- and isn'tt -- working for you from medical interactions to conventional and alternative therapies Non-negotiables for living well, and navigating work and motherhood, with a chronic condition The impact of long-COVID on raising awareness and changing the cultural and medical narrative about chronic, invisible illnesses How to advocate for yourself in conventional medicine and integrative wellness Many of you listening will find yourself in Meghan story. I hope this interview and her book give you a feeling of being less alone and remind you of the need for compassion for yourself or those in your life. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Megan @meghanor and grab a copy of her book at meghanorourke.com.

An estimated 6,000 women in the U.S. reach menopause every single day—that’s over 2 million each year! And an average of 27 million women between the ages of 45 and 64 experience menopausal symptoms. All this to say, you are not alone if you experience vaginal dryness and/or pain during sex. My goal today is to help you feel comfortable in your body and in your life by sharing what you need to know about the causes of these symptoms, what you can do to soothe and heal your vagina, and how you can make sex comfortable again.      Vaginal dryness also affects women in their 20s and 30s, so even if you're not in menopause, have a listen because you're sure to learn something about your body now—and something for your future self!     In this episode, I talk about:      What happens to our hormones leading up to and during menopause and why these changes can lead to vaginal dryness and, in turn, painful sex  How to know whether your vaginal symptoms or pain with sex are due to menopausal changes or to another condition  Effective, easy, and practical tips that you can use for vaginal dryness and painful sex  The differences between lubes, moisturizers, and oils, when and how to use each, and why hyaluronic acid may be a great option  My recommendations for herbal remedies and the pros and cons of a variety of supplements  The hormonal approaches currently available and which option may be the right choice for your treatment  The surprising and sexy tip to help heal vaginal dryness and pain during sex      I truly believe this is a phase of our lives that is meant to be filled with empowerment, self-love, and, when desired, self-pleasure.       And remember, you too, can call me at (413) 889-4549 and leave a voicemail with your women’s health-related questions, which may just get featured in a future episode!      Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

As thoughtful consumers, we try to make the best decisions for ourselves and our families. And the bottom line is that we shouldn't have to twice about the possibility that the everyday products we use, from the cookware in our homes to our cosmetics, could pose any level of danger to our health and wellbeing. We should be able to have confidence in the brands that make these products, as well as in the role of the powers that be — specifically the FDA — in ensuring their safety. However, there are unfortunate realities behind many of these everyday goods; PFAS, better known as "forever chemicals,” being one of them. In today’s episode of On Health, I address the threat of PFAS to our wellbeing as women, and to our children as I talk about the recent controversy that was brought to light from behind the shadows of some very misleading marketing by Thinx, a popular period underwear company. I dive into the long-term impact these chemicals can have on our health, the toxicity of labels like "organic" and "natural" in products that clearly contain PFAS, what products to be aware of, how to limit your exposure, and the importance of advocating for real, systemic change to keep ourselves, our families, and future generations as safe and healthy as possible. Join me as I discuss: The definition and history of PFAS and why they are classified as "forever chemicals" Where menstrual products fall under the FDA's regulatory category and what this ultimately means for their safety How much PFAS exposure we are getting from menstrual products and the health risks associated with this Tips and best practices to reduce exposure to PFAS when it comes to both menstrual products and everyday living Why the issue of these chemicals present in our products requires systemic change and what needs to be done moving forward Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Resources: For PFAS-free options for menstrual underwear, check out guides from Better Goods and Mamavation The Green Science Policy Institute has lists of PFAS-free consumer products—from rain gear to car seats. The Environmental Working Group’s database can help you to identify cosmetics and body products that do not contain PFAS. Additional Reading: Are Your Menstrual Products Hazardous To Your Health? https://avivaromm.com/menstrual-products/ Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC) Impacting Your Hormone Balance https://avivaromm.com/hormone-disruptors/ The Toxins That Could be Tanking Your Thyroid https://avivaromm.com/thyroid-toxins/ For an in-depth discussion of the role of endocrine disruptors on our reproductive health - and what you can do - get your copy of my bestselling book, Hormone Intelligence

Sensitivity to light, sounds, and sometimes smells, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes hours spent in darkened rooms. If you suffer from migraines, then you're all too familiar with these symptoms, which may affect you infrequently or as often as several times each week. Migraines are three times more common among women than men, and are worse prematurely and in menopause when women may experience them for the first time. But it's not just the numbers that are different, women are perceived and treated differently. Today I'm sharing the rich and relevant conversation I had with Dr. Joanna Kempner, an associate professor in the Department of Sociology at Rutgers, who is doing important work on gender politics and pain, specifically the striking difference between how men and women with pain are treated by doctors. In this episode, we explore the historical emergence of the 'migraine personality,' hysteria, and further disparities in pain treatment for women of color. We explore the societal factors that lead women to feel guilty for speaking up about their pain, whether it be chronic pain caused by a condition like migraine or acute pain for example, with a heart attack, and the ways that the stigma of pain affects pain research and the implications of this for the current and future treatment of women's pain. Joanna and I discuss: The historical context for the diagnosis previously called ‘hysteria’ The stigma women who have migraines might experience How people who suffer from migraines take on stereotypes What happens when a migraine is not recognized as a disability How the pharmaceutical industry plays on women’s guilt Why the medical community so often disbelieve women The patient-blaming language of medication overuse The irrationality of the opioid crisis How and why women of color remain invisible in medical research and have their pain treated differently Tune in to learn why these disparities in pain treatment still exist, how they are affecting our care, and how we can addres this in our own lives. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Check out Joanna’s incredible work and grab a copy of her book Not Tonight: Migraine and the Politics of Gender and Health at www.joannakempner.com

Motherhood is a lifelong role, during which there will be no shortage of opportunities to worry. Even before you give birth, your mama-bear radar is engaged, and you’re suddenly motivated to do all you can to protect this precious being growing inside of you. So as hard as it is to manage these worries while we're pregnant, it's also an ideal time to start developing inner practices to help us cope with these worries, both in order to protect ourselves and our little ones.   On today’s first official Let’s Chat About That episode of On Health, I’ll be addressing some of these worries head on by answering a voicemail from an expecting mama who is concerned about immunity during pregnancy, currently dealing with the very real feelings of anxiety and fear about getting sick during this time. My goal today is to ease some of these overwhelming worries by providing you with the honest facts so that you can make the most informed decisions to keep yourself and baby healthy now and for the long run.   On this episode, I discuss: The likelihood of developing respiratory illness while pregnant Non-respiratory infections to be aware of: herpes, toxoplasmosis, and Listeria What you need to know about the cold, the flu, COVID, and RSV while pregnant, including prevention and what to do about common respiratory symptoms and fever Universal symptoms that tell you it's time to get medical care How to minimize exposure and boost immunity safely in pregnancy I hope this episode brings you the peace of mind, reassurance, and ease to carry you through your pregnancy and into your journey through motherhood. I look forward to connecting with you and answering more of your women’s health-related questions in future episodes of this series! Remember, you can call me at (413) 889-4549 and leave a voicemail for a chance to be featured on the next one! Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.

Content Warning: In this episode, we will be talking about maternal mortality, infant mortality, and the impact of racism on maternal health. 60% of all maternal deaths are fully preventable, and the complications women experience are not inherent to black or brown bodies. Yet Black and Brown women have been blamed for their "bad outcomes" instead of recognizing that these deaths all too often have to do with failures in the obstetric system. In the US today, a Black woman is 12 times more likely to die of childbirth than a white woman, despite socioeconomic factors. Today on the On Health podcast, I am having a very real and much-needed discussion on the racial disparities in the business of birth, the demand for change, how we can better celebrate Black birthing people, and more, with Kimberly Seals Allers. She is an award-winning journalist, five-time author, international speaker, strategist, and advocate for maternal and infant health. A former senior editor at ESSENCE and writer at FORTUNE magazine, she is also a leading voice on the racial and socio-cultural complexities of birth, breastfeeding, and motherhood. Additionally, she is the founder of Irth, a new "Yelp-like" app for Black and Brown parents to address bias and racism in maternity and infant care. Kimberly also created Birthright, a podcast about joy and healing in Black birth that centres on positive Black birth stories. In this episode, we discuss: How weathering - the phenomenon of being exposed to ongoing racism - impacts Black pregnant and birthing women  Kimberly's journey into breastfeeding and birth activism - and how it's a family affair for her  The Irth app and how Kimberly is challenging medical bias and shining a light on much needed provider and birth space accountability  Black birthing joy and how it is possible to hold both the reality of these statistics and the celebration for Black birthing people  How we can push for change despite generations of struggle  And so much more!  Tune in for an incredibly raw conversation and a very real look into a black woman’s reality as an expecting mother and beyond. Your eyes will be further opened to the injustice that continues to exist in this country and you will feel more inspired than ever to do what you can to take action as an advocate. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Kimberly @iamksealsallers, get your copy of The Big Letdown: How Medicine, Big Business, and Feminism Undermine Breastfeeding, listen to the Birthright Podcast and check out the Irth App at www.kimberlysealsallers.com