In this episode, Dr Louise is joined by renowned American OB-GYN, integrative medicine specialist and globally renowned women’s health expert, Dr Felice Gersh. Together Louise and Felice delve into the science of hormones, how menopause care differs between the US and UK, and the harmful past of women’s medicine – from the vaginal mesh scandal to the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study which continues to impact access to HRT for women globally. Louise also speaks to Felice about the impact of weight loss drugs like Ozempic on women experiencing hormonal changes, and the impact of oestradiol on weight management.   With decades of experience, Felice is Medical Director of the Integrative Medical Group Irvine, which provides integrative services to support female longevity and complex disease management. Having witnessed the changes to women’s health over the years, she speaks candidly about her own concerns about the use of vaginal mesh, before its true harms came to light many years later. Felice and Louise also shed light on the infamous WHI study, which dramatically cut the number of women using HRT across the world.   To learn more about Felice, visit her Instagram here.   Available on watch on YouTube We hope you're loving the new series! Share your thoughts with us on the feedback form here and if you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a 5-star ⭐️ rating on your podcast platform.   DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group.     LET'S CONNECT    Website: Dr Louise Newson   Instagram: @drlouisenewsonpodcast   LinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn   Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast   YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube    Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk for any media enquiries.    LEARN MORE   Sign up to my Menopause Masterclass here   Sign up for my Confidence in Menopause course here   Sign up to my Upcoming Webinar for healthcare professionals here  Check out the new edition of Dr Louise Newson’s Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause   

On this week's episode, Charlotte Craig, a hugely successful content creator with nearly one million followers on TikTok joins Dr Louise Newson in the studio to share her journey to recovery from a traumatic injury – the highs, the lows, and the profound shift in perspective that followed. The pair also touch on the importance of understanding your hormone health at any stage.    In 2022, Charlotte, then a secondary school teacher, saw her life take an unexpected turn. What was meant to be a fun day of paddleboarding ended in a devastating leg injury. Forced to leave teaching behind, she found a new path in content creation, using social media to document her experiences and inspire others to embrace their authentic selves.   Now 27, Charlotte has also become more mindful of what she puts into her body, including her choices around contraception. She admits that when she first got the contraceptive implant, she didn’t fully understand how it worked – an experience many young women can relate to. The conversation delves into contraception, with a focus on the need for better education around the hormones, and the differences between synthetic and natural hormones.  This honest and empowering discussion highlights the importance of asking questions, making informed choices, and owning your decisions with confidence. As Charlotte puts it: ‘My outlook has always been, who cares? Whether it’s not wearing makeup, staying in pyjamas all day, or not shaving your legs, just do what feels right for you.’  To learn more about Charlotte, visit her Instagram here and TikTok here  Watch the episode on YouTube  Episode transcript  We hope you're loving the new series! Share your thoughts with us on the feedback form here and if you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform.    LET'S CONNECT   Website: Dr Louise Newson  Instagram: @drlouisenewsonpodcast LinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn  Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on Spotify  YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube  Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk for any media enquiries LEARN MORE  Sign up to my Menopause Masterclass Here  Sign up for my Confidence in Menopause Class Here  Sign up to my Upcoming Webinar Here  DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group. 

In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Donna Francis, an award-winning Beauty Editor with over 25 years of experience in the industry, having worked with magazines such as InStyle, Company, and Cosmo/Fabulous. Now Beauty Editor At Large at Hello! Magazine, Donna shares her personal experience with perimenopause, opening up about the profound impact it had on her life. She discusses the pressures around alcohol in midlife, how exercise became her mental health saviour, and how addressing her wellbeing helped her regain a sense of self during this challenging time. Now over six months sober, Donna is passionate about supporting women facing similar struggles and is on a mission to rebrand menopause as meno-power!    To learn more about Donna, visit her Instagram: here and check out her podcast, Smiling Gives You Wrinkles, here.  Available to watch on YouTube  We hope you're loving the new series! Share your thoughts with us on the feedback form here and if you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to leave a 5-star rating on your podcast platform.  Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk if you have any suggestions for new guests!     LET'S CONNECT   Website: Dr Louise Newson  Instagram: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast (@drlouisenewsonpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos  LinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn  Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on Spotify  YouTube: Dr Louise Newson Podcast - YouTube    LEARN MORE  Sign up to my Menopause Masterclass Here  Sign up for my Confidence in Menopause Class Here  Sign up to my Upcoming Webinar Here  DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group. 

Content advisory: This episode contains themes that some listeners may find distressing. Kicking off a brand-new series, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Gina Miller, founder of MoneyShe, co-founder of SCM Direct, who famously took the government to court over Brexit, for a powerful conversation about standing up for yourself, supporting others, and the financial struggles faced by menopausal women. Gina shares what fuels her determination, the values instilled in her from childhood, and her experiences challenging injustice – whether in politics, finance, or education. She speaks candidly about the backlash she has faced, the importance of resilience, and why she refuses to stay silent in the face of inequality. Together, Louise and Gina explore why women are often judged more harshly than men, how curiosity and questioning the status quo are essential for progress, and why empowering women is crucial for a fairer society. This inspiring discussion highlights the need for systemic change and the importance of speaking out—even when it’s difficult. To learn more about the research and insights on closing the gender investment and pension gap discussed in this episode, visit: MoneyShe.com Available to watch on YouTube   LET'S CONNECT   Website: Dr Louise Newson  Instagram: @drlouisenewsonpodcast LinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn  Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on Spotify  YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube  Email dlnpodcast@borkowski.co.uk for any media enquiries   LEARN MORE  Sign up to my Menopause Masterclass Here  Sign up for my Confidence in Menopause Class Here  Sign up to my Upcoming Webinar Here  DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Louise Newson or the Newson Health Group.   

A very exciting preview of what's to come in the new series of The Dr Louise Newson Podcast. Available to watch on YouTube  

Advisory: this episode contains themes of suicide and topics which listeners may find upsetting. In this week’s podcast Dr Louise Newson is joined by Lisa, who shares her deeply personal and challenging journey through perimenopause, mental health struggles, and the impact of her experiences on her family. Lisa discusses the devastating effects of her mental health decline, which led to a crisis point and ultimately a prison sentence for attempted murder. She also reflects on her time in prison, the realisations she had about her health, and the transformative impact of HRT on her recovery. The conversation also delves into the impact of hormonal changes on women's mental health and the often-overlooked connection between hormonal imbalances and criminal behaviour. Dr Louise and Lisa also discuss the importance of education around hormonal health, especially during perimenopause and menopause, to prevent tragic outcomes such as suicide and criminal behaviour. Click here to find out more about Newson Health. Contact the Samaritans for 24-hour, confidential support by calling 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

This week, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Professor Cassandra Szoeke, academic professor, general physician, consultant neurologist and multi-award-winning clinical researcher and author. As principal investigator of the Women’s Healthy Ageing Project, the longest study of women’s health in Australia, she authored the book Secrets of Women’s Healthy Ageing and has several hundred published articles in academic journals. This week's episode explores the topic of healthy ageing, including the connection between inflammation and chronic diseases, the importance of physical activity, mental health, and the role of nutrition and gut health in inflammation. Dr Newson and Professor Szoeke also emphasise the need for a holistic approach to healthcare and the importance of prevention. Click here to find out more about Newson Health.

Content advisory: this episode discusses themes of suicide and sexual assault. In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Christiane Gurner, who shares her story of endometriosis and PMDD, highlighting the challenges many women face in getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. Christiane also shares her experiences of IVF and menopause at the age of 42. The conversation also covers the importance of listening to patients, individualising care and access to the right treatment, as well as the impact of hormone-related conditions on mental health. Christiane has written about her IVF experiences in the Sydney Morning Herald here (subscription required) and here, and menopause at 42 here. She can be contacted via email at christianewrites@outlook.com. Click here to find out more about Newson Health.

In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson talks to Professor Mike Kirby, president of the British Society for Sexual Medicine and author of more than 450 clinical papers and 32 books. He was previously director of the Hertfordshire Primary Care Research Network, visiting professor to the Faculty of Health and Human Sciences at the University of Hertfordshire, and was attending physician to the Prostate Centre, London, where he dealt with complex medical problems until 2020. Dr Newson and Professor Kirby discuss the importance of hormone health for both men and women, including testosterone. They also explore the benefits of phosphodiesterase inhibitors – which include Viagra – in treating not only erectile dysfunction, but their potential to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, urinary symptoms, dementia, and even cancer. Professor Kirby is one of the speakers at the upcoming Newson Conference: The Hormone Blueprint, which will be held in London on 21 March. An event for healthcare professionals, the conference will delve into the far-reaching impact of hormones on the body. For more information and to book your place, click here. Click here to find out more about Newson Health.

Content advisory: this episode includes themes of mental health and suicide In this week’s podcast, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Rachel Jones to delve into the critical role hormones, particularly progesterone, play in women's mental health. They discuss the importance of understanding hormonal changes throughout a woman's life, the differences between natural and synthetic hormones, and the need for individualised treatment plans. The conversation emphasises the significance of balancing hormones and considering lifestyle factors that impact mental health. Dr Louise and Dr Rachel share insights on how natural progesterone can help with mental health symptoms, including mood and anxiety, and encourage women not to give up on finding the right hormonal balance for them. Click here to find out more about Newson Health. Find out more about Dr Rachel on Instagram @the_hormone_clinic Contact the Samaritans for 24-hour, confidential support by calling 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.

Content advisory: this episode includes themes of mental health and suicide In this episode, Dr Louise Newson speaks with Rachel Birch, a doctor who shares her personal journey of menopause, mental health and alcohol addiction. Rachel discusses the lack of training on menopause in medical education, her experiences with anxiety and depression, how she found herself using alcohol as a coping mechanism and how she is navigating her recovery. Rachel emphasises the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and self-love in recovery. The conversation also highlights the need for better awareness and understanding of menopause and its impact on mental health. Rachel also shares the following advice if you find yourself struggling with addiction: Listen to your body and trust your instinct Be your own advocate – you know your body best Prevention is better than cure: be alert to drinking habits Don't suffer alone, reach out for help. Click here to find out more about Newson Health Contact the Samaritans for 24-hour, confidential support by calling 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.

Joining Dr Louise Newson on this week’s podcast is Suzie Aries, who shares her story of menopause following treatment for a rare and aggressive ovarian cancer in her 20s. Suzie talks about her cancer diagnosis and treatment, including raising £250,000 to fund treatment not available on the NHS. She also shares the realities of menopause at a young age, how HRT has helped her menopause symptoms, and why she takes HRT for her future health. Finally, Suzie offers advice for women on how to advocate for themselves during healthcare consultations, and why being knowledgeable, confident and curious is key. You can follow Suzie on Instagram @suzieclair11 and find out more about her story via her Facebook page Suzie Aries: kicking cancer's butt.

Joining Dr Louise Newson on this week’s podcast are Jane Hajduk and Shari Dolan, the real-life friends behind Thee Third Act, a YouTube comedy series about women’s third act: menopause. Thee Third Act follows Jane and Shari’s characters, Josephine and Lauren, in their search for answers during menopause. From life coaches to hormone replacement therapy, they strive to conquer or at least ease hot flushes, sleepless nights, and astronomical mood swings. Jane and Shari discuss their own menopause experiences, their off-screen friendship, and why sisterhood, laughter and honesty are key when navigating menopause. Catch with Thee Third Act on YouTube here – the second season premieres on 27 January Click here to find out more about Newson Health

In this week's episode of the podcast, Dr Louise Newson talks to Paula, a 76-year-old woman who reached out to share her experience of being on HRT for over 30 years. Paula explains how she was prescribed HRT after a hysterectomy when she was 44, following a complicated gynaecological history, which included an ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, fibroids and endometriosis. She had been taking HRT for a decade when the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative study was released. Paula explains how she researched the study, then weighed up her personal risk and benefits in discussion with her doctor and made the decision to carry on taking HRT. Paula was happy to stay on HRT and credits it with helping her to feel better in her 70s than she did in her 30s. Click here to find out more about Newson Health

Joining Dr Louise on this week’s podcast is Matt Roberts, one of Britain’s foremost fitness experts and personal training pioneer. Matt opened Europe’s first exclusively personal training gym in 1996, is a bestselling author and is responsible for honing some of the most famous physiques in fashion, sport, film, music and politics. In this episode, Matt and Dr Louise discuss the importance of strength training, cardio and mobility exercise for health span, as well as some of the key barriers to exercise during perimenopause and menopause –  and how to overcome them. Finally, Matt offers advice on getting into good habits during menopause, whether you are already active or haven’t exercised for a while. Find out more about Matt at www.mattroberts.co.uk and follow him on Instagram @mattroberts_lifestyle Click here for more about Newson Health.

On this week’s podcast Dr Louise Newson is joined by her friend Liz Earle MBE, writer, TV presenter, award-winning entrepreneur and best-selling author of A Better Second Half: Dial Back Your Age to Live a Longer, Healthier, Happier Life. Liz is synonymous with wellbeing, and as we head into 2025, she talks about why most New Year’s resolutions fail because they are unachievable. Instead, Dr Louise and Liz together offer practical tips on making some small but meaningful changes to improve health and wellbeing in midlife and beyond, including nutrition, exercise, mental health and hormones. They also talk about the importance of prioritising yourself – and why self-care is anything but selfish. For more about Liz, visit www.lizearlewellbeing.com You can follow Liz on Instagram @lizearleme Click here for more about Newson Health.

Joining Dr Louise Newson on the podcast this week is A&E consultant Professor Rob Galloway, who talks about his career to date and pressures facing the health service. He also shares the nutrition and exercise changes he’s made in his own life that have improved his physical and mental health, as well as his top tips on living healthier for longer. You can follow Professor Galloway on X @DrRobgalloway Click here for more about Newson Health.

On this week’s episode, Dr Sumi Rampling, a GP and Menopause Specialist who works alongside Dr Louise at Newson Health, shares her personal story of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Diagnosed in early adulthood, Dr Sumi talks openly about the challenges of her ADHD diagnosis, as well as the impact that hormone changes, including perimenopause, can have on women with ADHD. She talks about the determination her condition has given her, and also offers advice for women navigating hormone changes and ADHD. Download balance’s ADHD and menopause booklet here. Click here for more about Newson Health.

In a departure from our usual format, as we reach the end of 2024, Dr Louise looks back on her highlights of this year, including her recent theatre tour, her education work and the work of the Newson Health research team. She looks at some of the key developments for menopause in 2024, and busts some myths around hormones and hormone replacement therapy. Plus, she’ll be looking forward to 2025, and sharing details of some exciting work for the year ahead. For more information on Newson Health, click here.

Joining Dr Louise this week is Louise Mulley, who shares her experience of anxiety and menopause. Louise shares the importance of speaking openly about menopause and mental health, and how a conversation with a close friend helped her recognise her symptoms and find the right support and treatment. She also shares her top three tips on helping friends or loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health during perimenopause and menopause: Help your friend unburden: ask them ‘would you like to talk to me about it?’. Make it clear they can talk to you with no judgement and in confidence. Share your own menopause story to encourage your friend to open up about what they may be going through. Keep an open mind: if you’re a woman of menopausal age and experiencing mood changes, consider that it might be your hormones. For more information on Newson Health, click here.