Episode Highlights 🌟

🧬 The Science Behind Midlife Changes: Discover why vaginal tissue goes from 20+ layers to just 2 post-menopause—and what you can do about it

💡 Lubes vs. Moisturizers Decoded: Finally understand the difference between "lubes for love" and "moisturizers for maintenance"

🌱 From Clinician to Entrepreneur: How a pelvic health physio created FemSense Balm after struggling to find effective products for her clients

🔬 pH Balance Matters: Learn the exact pH range (3.5-5.0) your vulvar area needs to stay healthy and infection-free

🩺 Beyond Menopause: Why postpartum, post-cancer, and incontinence patients also need to know about vaginal moisturizers

🎵 Theme Song: "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey (because innovation in women's health never stops!)

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Episode Summary

In this enlightening conversation, host Kristen Parise sits down with fellow pelvic health physiotherapist Angelique Montana-Breslin to dive deep into a topic that's often overlooked but desperately needed: vaginal moisturizers. From the entrepreneurial journey of creating FemmeSense Balm to the science behind vulvar health, this episode is packed with practical insights that could be life-changing for many listeners.

Meet Our Guest

Angelique Montano-Bresolin, PT, BSc PT, HBA Kin

• Registered Physiotherapist and Clinic Director at Proactive Pelvic Health Centre in Toronto
• Adjunct Lecturer at University of Toronto
• Creator of FemmeSense Balm and founder of Pelvic Health Hub
• Treating all genders and ages for pelvic health concerns since 2009

Angelique's journey into pelvic health began through treating low back pain, where she discovered the strong correlation between pelvic floor dysfunction and spinal issues—a discovery that changed her career trajectory forever.

Key Takeaways That Will Change How You Think About Intimate Care

The Lube vs. Moisturizer Revelation

• Lubricants: "Lubes for love" - fast-acting, short-term friction relief for sexual activity
• Moisturizers: "Moisturizers for maintenance" - ongoing skin support, just like face cream for your vulva

The Midlife Reality Check One powerful visualization shared: pre-menopause vaginal tissue has approximately 20 layers of skin cells, while post-menopause may have only 2. This dramatic change explains why so many experience that "razor blade" sensation during intimacy.

Beyond Menopause: Who Else Needs to Know This

• Postpartum individuals (especially those breastfeeding)
• Post-cancer treatment patients
• Anyone with urinary incontinence
• Those with vulvar dermatological conditions like lichen sclerosus

What Makes a Good Vaginal Moisturizer?

Angelique breaks down the science-backed essentials:

1. pH Balance: 3.5-5.0 range to maintain healthy microbiome
2. Emollient Properties: Softens and lubricates skin
3. Occlusive Properties: Creates barrier to prevent moisture loss
4. Humectant Properties: Draws and retains water in skin

Chapter Breakdown

• 00:00 - Introduction to Pelvic Health and Angelique's Journey
• 02:58 - The Creation of FemmeSense Balm (From idea to market reality)
• 05:51 - Understanding Vaginal Moisturizers vs. Lubricants
• 09:03 - Key Considerations for Choosing a Vaginal Moisturizer
• 11:52 - The Importance of Moisturizers in Midlife
• 14:49 - Vulvar Vaginal Dryness Across Different Life Stages
• 18:06 - Lichen Sclerosus and Its Impact
• 20:47 - FemmeSense Balm: A Solution for Sensitive Skin
• 24:05 - Where to Find FemmeSense Balm and Closing Thoughts

Resources Mentioned

Where to Find FemmeSense Balm:

• Pelvic Health Hub (Direct from manufacturer)
• Amazon
• Well.ca (Canada)
• Blueberry Therapy and other select pelvic health clinics

Connect with Angelique:

• Instagram: @proactivepelvichealth
• Facebook: @proactivepelvichealth
• Pelvic Health Hub: @pelvichealthhub

Why This Episode Matters

This isn't just another product discussion—it's about filling a critical gap in women's healthcare knowledge. As Angelique reveals, many people suffering from vulvar discomfort have never even heard that moisturizers exist for intimate care. For some clients, discovering this solution has been "life-changing."

Whether you're approaching midlife, navigating postpartum changes, or supporting clients in your practice, this episode provides the science-backed information needed to make informed decisions about intimate skincare.

Theme Song Spotlight: Angelique's choice? "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey—perfectly capturing her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to advancing pelvic health care.

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Ready to transform your understanding of intimate wellness? Press play and discover why this conversation is resonating with healthcare professionals and patients alike.