In today’s special episode, Dr. Lisa is joined by Dr. Christine Palmay, an award-winning primary care physician from Toronto and co-host of the Primary Care Conversations podcast. Together, they dive into the essential screening tests and health considerations for women in their 40s and beyond—covering everything from mammograms and HPV testing, to updated guidelines for breast and cervical cancer screening. Dr. Palmay also shares her practical prevention strategies, the importance of immunizations, and advice for navigating the wild ride that is perimenopause. Whether you’re juggling family, aging parents, or just trying to make time for your own health, this episode is packed with actionable information and relatable stories to help you put yourself back on your own to-do list. Tune in for expert tips, a few laughs, and a reminder that prevention is the best medicine!
Dr. Christine Palmay graduated from the Western University Schulich School ofMedicine in 2006 and completed her residency at the University of Toronto in 2008. Dr. Christine Palmay graduated from the Western University Schulich School of Medicine in 2006 and completed her residency at the University of Toronto in 2008. She currently manages a busy family medical practice in midtown Toronto.
She has been listed in NOW magazine’s Best of List and was honoured by the Federation of Medical Women of Canada with their 2016 National Reproductive Health Award. Dr. Palmay is a board member on the Canadian Collaborative Research Network. She also serves as a co-editor of a new primary care journal, Primary Care Today. She has a jamming Podcast with another family physician called Primary Care Conversations with Christine and Jeff. Dr. Palmay speaks and writes regularly on topics such as immunization, women’s health, and has a passion for public education.
Key topics include:
* New breast cancer screening guidelines in Ontario, now starting at age 40.
* The shift from traditional Pap tests to HPV testing for cervical cancer screening, including the exciting potential for at-home HPV tests in the near future.
* The role of ultrasounds for women with dense breasts and when these may be appropriate in addition to mammograms.
* The importance of staying updated on vaccinations, from measles to the shingles vaccine at age 50, plus the broad recommendation for the HPV vaccine at any age due to relationship changes and dormant infections.
* Addressing common oversights—Dr. Palmay reminds women not to neglect their own health while caring for kids, partners, and aging parents. She shares practical prevention steps: prioritize annual checkups, sleep, nutrition (especially adequate protein), and add weightlifting to maintain long-term strength.
* Lifestyle and self-care tips to help women thrive during the unpredictable “bronco ride” of hormonal changes.
* The benefits of building community, seeking mentorship for kids, and rethinking how we give meaningful gifts (hint: your time matters most).
Plus, listen in for funny “mess up” moments from both Dr. Lisa and Dr. Palmay, favorite recent discoveries (including sheep yogurt and a must-read book from Mel Robbins!), and encouragement to put self-care back on the list.
Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, supporting friends or family through it, or just want to stay informed about women’s health, this episode is packed with actionable advice and warm, relatable conversation.
Listen to Dr. Palmay’s podcast:
Primary Care Conversations with Christine and Jeff
See Dr.
