In this conversation, Dr Tarryn and Emma discuss the critical topic of cancer screening and genetic testing, particularly focusing on breast and ovarian cancers. They explore the importance of understanding genetic markers, who should be tested, and the implications of testing positive for certain genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2. The discussion also highlights the role of genetic counsellors, current research in cancer detection, and the need for ongoing awareness and prevention strategies. Chapters:03:57: Genetics Basics: What Is A Gene?06:24: The Science Of Cancer: Oncogenes and Tumour Suppressor Genes08:55: Who Should Opt For Genetic Screening11:25: Exploring BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes 19:44: Spotlight On Ovarian Cancer 22:24: Genetic Testing Availability in South Africa25:22: Genetic Counselling and What To Expect#BRCA #BreastCancer #OvarianCancer #GeneticScreening #Genetics #Cancer
In this stand alone episode, Dr. Tarryn Kawalsky discusses the often-taboo topic of lubrication in women's health. She explores the importance of lubrication, the science behind it, and the various types of lubricants available. Dr Tarryn emphasizes the significance of pH and osmolality in choosing the right lubricant, as well as the common ingredients to avoid. The conversation also touches on the relationship between lubricants and fertility, providing listeners with valuable insights into maintaining vaginal health and wellness.Chapters:03:30: Understanding Lubrication and Its Importance05:34: What Makes A Good Lubricant: pH and Osmolality07:20: Ingredients to Avoid in Lubricants10:30: What Is A 'Natural Lube'?11:07: Types of Lubricants: Pros and Cons12:40: Do You Need A Lubricant And Does It Affect Fertility?#Fertility #Lubes #Lubrication #SexualHealth #VaginalHealth #WomensHealth
In this episode, Dr. Tarryn and health expat Emma unpack the hype around collagen — one of the most talked-about wellness trends today. They explore what collagen actually is, its essential roles in the body, and the different forms available on the market. The discussion touches on whether collagen truly counts as a quality protein source, natural dietary ways to support collagen, and who might realistically benefit from supplementation. Throughout the conversation, they stress the importance of evidence over marketing, while acknowledging that many of the claims remain highly subjective and should be approached with caution.Chapters:03:50 Collagen: Does The Science Support Skin And Joint Health?07:36: Collagen Biochemistry: A Good Source Of Protein?10:00: Breaking Down The Science: The Current Evidence And Its Limitations 12:12 Sources Of Collagen: Dietary Considerations 15:55 Forms Of Collagen: Powders, Capsules and Gummies18:08: Topical Vs Oral Collagen: What Is More Effective?20:50: Who Should Supplement With Collagen?22:59: Final Thoughts: Best Time of Day, How To Take It & How To Know What Constitutes A Good Supplement?#Collagen #Supplements #WomensHealth #Protein #Science #Health
Join Dr. Tarryn and health expat Emma Ichai as they unpack the complexities of endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting 1 in 10 women. Together, they break down the often overlooked symptoms and the significant toll endometriosis can take on fertility. The conversation sheds light on the diagnostic delays many women face, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and timely medical support. They also explore both medical and lifestyle treatment options, highlighting the urgent need for improved awareness and stronger support systems for those living with this misunderstood condition.Chapters:03:13: Understanding Endometriosis: Causes & Symptoms09:55: The Impact Of Endometriosis On Fertility12:45: Diagnosis & Misdiagnosis17:47: Treatment Options For Endometriosis22:36: Exploring Diet, Exercise & Complementary Therapies28:40: Advocating For Better Support#Fertility #Endometriosis #WomensHealth #Science #Health
In this 11th episode, Emma and Dr. Tarryn take a deep dive into the world of creatine—unpacking what it actually does in the body, how its uses extend far beyond just building muscle, and why it’s gaining attention in broader wellness conversations. The two explore who might benefit from taking it, who should approach taking creatine with caution, and what potential side effects one should keep in mind. With their signature mix of science, curiosity, and real talk, they break down the facts and cut through the hype to help you decide: is creatine really worth it?Chapters: 02:27: What's The Deal With Creatine?04:15: The Science of Creatine05:40: Creatine and Muscle Health09:10: Creatine and Brain Health13:02: Does Creatine Make You Bulk?14:20: Adverse Effects and Contraindications15:58: Plant Based Diets and Creatine17:20: What To Look Out For In A Product?22:00: Do Women Need More Creatine and Dosing Protocols24:39: The Ultimate Debate: Is Creatine Worth The Hype?#Creatine #Supplements #TheOvarianClub #Wellness #Health #Science
In this 10th episode special, Dr Tarryn and Emma explore various wellness fads, discussing their scientific backing and effectiveness. They delve into topics such as light therapy, apple cider vinegar, sunscreen, castor oil, mouth taping, tongue scraping, matcha, gua sha, face taping and dry brushing, providing insights and debunking myths along the way.Chapters:03:56: Exploring light therapy09:58: Apple Cider Vinegar14:04: Sunscreen: Is it toxic?15: 58: Castor Oil and Navel Pulling18:15: Mouth Taping For Better Sleep20:24: Tongue Scraping and Oral Health23:10: Matcha - Worth The Hype?27:10: Face Taping and Guasha29:49: Dry Brushing To Skin32:39: Wrapping It All Up#Wellness #LightTherapy #AppleCiderVinegar #Sunscreen #CastorOil #MouthTaping #TongueScraper #Matcha #Guasha #FaceTaping #DryBrushing
In this episode, Dr Tarryn and Emma delve into the multifaceted world of sleep, discussing its importance, the science behind sleep aids, and the various factors that influence sleep quality. They explore sleep cycles, the impact of age and gender on sleep needs, the concept of sleep debt, and the identification of sleep disorders. The discussion also covers practical sleep hygiene tips to improve sleep quality, emphasizing the significance of understanding individual sleep patterns and needs. Ready for that good night's sleep? Tune in to discover what sweet dreams are made of!Chapters:03:10: The Importance of Sleep06:10: Understanding Sleep Cycles08:30: The Impact of Dreaming10:40: How Much Do We Need To Sleep?12:50: Sleep Debt: Can You Catch Up On Sleep?15:10: Break Down Of Sleep Disorders19:40: Sleep Hygiene and Tips For Better Sleep25:18: What Is Blue Light?27:28: Mouth Taping: Does It Work?29:37: Magnesium Breakdown32:13: Melatonin And Sleep34:20: Concluding Remarks#Sleep #Magnesium #Sleepcycles #Sleephygiene #Insomnia #BlueLight #Sleepdebt #WomensHealth
This conversation delves into the complexities of fertility, discussing the emotional and physical preparations for pregnancy, the importance of diet and supplements, as well as understanding ovulation tracking and ways to be in tune with your cycle. It also addresses causes of infertility, the steps to take when facing fertility challenges, and the impact of age and lifestyle on fertility. This discussion highlights the value of fertility awareness in empowering women to take charge of their fertility journey.Chapters:04:00: Steps To Consider Pre Pregnancy07:20: Diet & Supplements for Optimal Fertility13:40: Lifestyle Considerations for Fertility15:39: Ovulation Tracking & Fertility Window22:00: Understanding Infertility27:15: In Vitro Fertilization32:30: Sperm Health & Male Fertility34:29: Fertility Statistics36:00: Concluding Remarks#Fertility #Pegnancy, #Ovulation #IVF #Health #Wellness #Infertility #WomensHealth
This conversation delves into the complexities of the menstrual cycle, discussing its phases, the significance of menstruation, and the differences between normal and abnormal experiences. The hosts explore the impact of hormonal changes on physical and emotional health, including conditions like PMS, PMDD and endometriosis. They also touch on the importance of nutrition and exercise in relation to the menstrual cycle, emphasizing the need for women to understand their bodies and advocate for their health.04:55: Phases of the Menstrual Cycle09:05: Impact of the Oral Contraceptive Pill10:22: Menstruation In Other Animals11:55: Why Do We Menstruate?13:20: Normal vs Abnormal Menstruation21:06: Painful Periods and Endometriosis 24:50: PMS and PMDD30:00: Nutrition, Seed Cycling and Exercise35:02: Concluding Remarcks#menstrualhealth #menstrualcycle #PMS #PMDD #menstruation #womenshealth #hormonalbalance #cyclesyncing #reproductivehealth
In this engaging conversation, Emma Ichai and Dr. Tarryn Kawalsky delve into the complexities of hormonal acne, exploring its causes, the role of hormones, dietary impacts, and effective treatment options. They explore the connection between acne and the menstrual cycle, along with various lifestyle factors that impact skin health. The episode also touches on the distinctions between acne and rosacea, the effects of pregnancy on skin, and the latest skincare products and treatments available, from retinols and beyond!Chapters:03:30: Introduction to Skin Follicles and Acne07:10: Role of Hormones in Acne10:00: Link between Acne and the Menstrual Cycle11:15: Link between Diet and Acne15:25: Exploring Rosacea and How it Differs from Acne20:45: Effects of the Combined Contraceptive Pill and Acne22:40: Topical Treatment options and the Retinol Purge25:20: Basic Skincare Routine For Acne28:10: Non Medical Alternative Treatments32:45: Concluding Remarks#Skincare #PCOS #Skinhealth #Acne #Melasma #Rosacea #Retinols #Hormones #SkinCareRoutine
This conversation delves into the complexities of menopause, exploring its biological, psychological, and societal dimensions. Join Dr Tarryn and Emma as they discuss the intricacies of menopause; the related symptoms and complications as well as the various treatment options available including hormone replacement therapy. They also touch on cultural attitudes towards menopause and the importance of open and honest discussions about women's health.Chapters:01:30: The Evolutionary Perspective on Menopause03:30: Menopause Definition 04:32: Evolutionary Perspectives07:00: Exploring the Symptoms08:46 Menopause and the Brain09:45: Menopause and Mental Health11:30: Physical Changes and Long-term Effects of Menopause18:58: Cultural Perspectives on Menopause19:40: Menopause and Impacts on Sleep20:52: Hormone Replacement Therapy23:30: Exploring Alternative Strategies24:40: Lifestyle Interventions26:40: Concluding Remarks#Menopause #HormoneReplacementTherapy #WomensHealth #MentalHealth #MenopauseAwarenessmenopause, perimenopause, symptoms, hormone replacement therapy, women's health, evolutionary biology, cultural perspectives, mental health, lifestyle changes, aging
Tune in as Dr Tarryn Kawalsky and Emma Ichai delve into the often misunderstood topic of perimenopause. They discuss its definition, onset, symptoms, and the importance of recognizing and addressing these changes in women's health. The conversation highlights the need for better education and awareness around perimenopause, the role of hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms. Together, the two aim to empower listeners by validating their experiences and encouraging open discussions about women's health issues.Chapters03:35: Definitions08:25: Factors affecting onset10:47: Symptoms 14:30: Diagnosis 16:30: Impact of the contraceptive pill19:55: Hormone Replacement Therapy24:55: Lifestyle factors28:10: Concluding Remarks#perimenopause #menopause #womenshealth #hormonereplacementtherapy #hormones #fertility #podcast
In this episode, Emma Ichai and Dr Tarryn discuss the topic of egg freezing, exploring its definition, eligibility criteria, age considerations, and the procedure itself. They delve into the psychological and emotional aspects of the decision to freeze eggs, sharing personal reflections and insights. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the process, the potential outcomes, and the empowerment that comes with making informed reproductive choices.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Egg Freezing03:20 What is Egg Freezing06:30 Age Considerations09:56 Understanding Aneuploidy - The Genetics of the Eggs10:35 Pre-Procedure Steps for Egg Freezing13:18 The Egg Retrieval Process 18:25 Link to Stress19:55 Relative Probabilities 24:14 Post-Procedure Expectations and Mental Health13:56 The Journey of Frozen Eggs24:40 Intro to IVF27:05 PCOS and Links to Infertility30:00 Empowerment Through Egg Freezing#EggFreezing #Fertility #IVF #WomensHealth #MedicalPodcast
In this conversation, Dr Tarryn Kawalsky and Emma Ichai explore the complexities of 'mom brain' and 'pregnancy brain,' discussing the significant hormonal and cognitive changes that occur during and after pregnancy. They delve into the science behind these changes, the impact of sleep deprivation, and the distinctions between mom brain, baby blues, and postpartum depression. Ultimately, they aim to reframe the narrative around motherhood, highlighting both the challenges and the beauty of the experience. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Health Updates 02:02 Understanding Mom Brain and Pregnancy Brain 04:01 Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy and Postpartum 06:53 Sleep Deprivation and Its Effects 11:50 Differentiating Mom Brain, Baby Blues, and Postpartum Depression 13:59 Understanding Postpartum Depression 18:44 Exploring Postpartum Psychosis 23:11 The Importance of Awareness and Support 26:32 Breastfeeding: Benefits and Challenges 29:44 Resources for New Mothers 33:06 Finding Beauty in the Changes of Motherhood
In the inaugural episode of The Ovarian Club, hosts Emma Ichai and Dr Tarryn Kawalsky introduce their women's health and wellness podcast discussing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). They share personal experiences, explain the complexities of PCOS, its symptoms and the importance of lifestyle management. The conversation also covers medical interventions available for managing PCOS, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for women dealing with this condition. Medical disclaimer: This podcast does not serve to offer any personal medical advice. Always seek the advice of a health care professional for any condition or treatment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Ovarian Club 05:59 Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) 14:01 Symptoms and Diagnosis of PCOS 20:58 Lean PCOS and Insulin Resistance 25:20 PCOS complications 29:36 Lifestyle Interventions for Managing PCOS 42:14 Medical Interventions and Treatment Options for PCOS
Welcome to The Ovarian Club! A conversational podcast led by two besties across countries, South Africa and France, tackling the trendiest women's wellness topics through a scientific lens. Tune in as hosts Dr Tarryn Kawalsky and health expat Emma Ischai navigate the complex women's wellness world, discuss the latest health trends and provide top tips to optimize your life.