Episoder

  • 'Haemorrhoids is one of those embarrassing problems that a lot of people suffer from. There's a lot of taboos surrounding it, because people don't want to own up that they've got haemorrhoids. A lot of people listening or watching this probably have haemorrhoids, they're probably sitting on them right now. That video is not a sexy topic, but it got over 2 million views... that is a huge amount of people that I could see across 100 clinics, and still not get to that number.'

    In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Dr Karan Rajan, a doctor, health educator, and host of the Dr Karan Explores podcast. With millions of followers across his social media platforms, Dr Karan showcases the power of social media to ‘de-taboo the taboo’, tackling topics including menopause, women’s health, and bowel issues. He stresses the harm caused by shame and silence, reminding us that ‘taboo should not be associated with any disease or condition’.

    A passionate advocate for accessible, jargon-free medical education, Dr Karan believes that everyone deserves to feel confident in understanding and managing their own health. Together, he and Dr Louise challenge persistent myths, like the notion that testosterone is a male-only hormone – exploring how such misconceptions reinforce outdated ideas that negatively impact patient care.

    They also address how misinformation, stigma and a one size fits approach to medicine creates barriers to care, particularly in women’s health such as menopause and endometriosis. This episode explores the evolving role of medical educators, and is a call for more open, informed conversations – because great medicine should never settle for ‘good enough’.

    Watch on YouTube

    We hope you love 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 [email protected].uk with suggestions for new guests!

    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: 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 - YouTube

    CONNECT WITH DR KARAN

    Website: Dr Karan Rajan

    Instagram: Dr Karan Rajan (MRCS MBBS BSc) (@drkaranrajan) • Instagram photos and videos

    LinkedIn: Dr Karan Rajan | LinkedIn

    Spotify: Dr Karan Explores | Podcast on Spotify

    YouTube: Dr Karan - YouTube

  • In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by Ferne McCann, TV personality, reality star, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the wellness app Shoorah. Ferne first rose to fame on The Only Way Is Essex and has since appeared on shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and Dancing on Ice.

    Ferne talks candidly about the hormonal changes she experienced during and after pregnancy, and how breathwork learned through hypnobirthing helped her stay calm and manage stress during childbirth. She also opens up about how pushing herself beyond her comfort zone - whether learning to skate for Dancing on Ice or taking part in Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, has strengthened her resilience and confidence. She reflects on the value of embracing challenges and aims to inspire curiosity and courage in her daughters while continuing to embrace these qualities herself.

    Their conversation then turns to perimenopause, with Louise explaining how fluctuating hormones after pregnancy can affect mood and wellbeing. The episode closes with Ferne sharing her three take-home tips, plans for an exciting new podcast, Every Cloud, and other upcoming projects.

    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.

    This episode is also available to watch on YouTube here

    Email [email protected].uk with suggestions for new guests!

    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 NewsonInstagram: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast (@drlouisenewsonpodcast) • Instagram photos and videosLinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedInSpotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on SpotifyYouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube

    CONNECT WITH FERNE MCCANN

    TikTok: Ferne McCannInstagram: Ferne McCannLinkedIn: Ferne McCann
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  • Award-winning content creator, comedian, and author Fats Timbo joins Dr Louise Newson for a powerful conversation on self-worth, confidence, and hormones.

    Fats, who has achondroplasia, shares how she turned adversity into empowerment—from childhood challenges and societal bias to becoming a viral creator and published author of Main Character Energy.

    In this warm, funny, and honest discussion, Fats opens up about:

    Growing up with limited representation Navigating bullying, ignorance, and social media Building confidence and self-love on her own terms

    The episode also delves into hormonal health, as Fats describes how PMS (premenstrual syndrome) affects her mood, confidence, and relationships. Dr Louise Newson explains the science behind PMS and PMDD, highlighting how hormones like oestrogen and progesterone can impact our mental wellbeing.

    Together, they call for greater understanding and compassion, from affirmations and goal setting, to simply allowing yourself small acts of kindness. Fats’ infectious positivity is a powerful reminder that confidence and mental wellbeing are not only essential but possible for everyone at every stage of life.

    This episode is also available to watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/l_j9nTHEUro

    Follow Fats, on TikTok & Instagram

    Order Main Character Energy here

    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 [email protected].uk with suggestions for new guests!

    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: 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 - YouTube

  • In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by broadcaster and journalist Naga Munchetty, known for her role on BBC Breakfast. Naga discusses her new book, It’s Probably Nothing, where she explores how women’s health concerns are often dismissed, left undiagnosed, or told their pain was normal’. Drawing on her own personal experiences, she examines the harmful impact of medical misogyny and stresses the urgent need for change in how women’s health issues are treated.

    Naga reflects on the pressure she felt in sharing her personal experiences publicly, balancing her role as a journalist with the vulnerability of becoming the story. Yet by speaking out, she realised how many others had experienced similar struggles. Her diagnosis of adenomyosis took over three decades, a delay that mirrors the experiences of many women conditioned to minimise their symptoms.

    The conversation highlights the emotional toll of being dismissed in the healthcare system and the barriers that prevent women from advocating for themselves. Both Naga and Louise emphasise the importance of genuine listening and collaboration in medical care, calling for greater support systems, second opinions, and the vital role of self-advocacy. They also highlight the need for better care for marginalised communities, particularly in regions where the word “menopause” doesn’t even exist and women struggle to receive the support they need. This episode is a powerful call for more compassionate, inclusive, and informed healthcare for women everywhere.

    This episode serves as a powerful call for better treatment, increased awareness, and stronger support systems for women in healthcare.

    Available to watch on YouTube

    To find out more about Naga, follow her on X here & Instagram here.

    Check out Naga's book, It's Probably Nothing: Critical Conversations on the Women's Health Crisis (and How to Thrive Despite it) here

    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 [email protected].uk with suggestions for new guests!

    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: 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 - YouTube

  • In this week’s episode, Dr Louise Newson is joined by her good friend Dr Rupy Aujla, a medical doctor, nutritionist, and founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen for a deep dive into his new book, Healthy High Protein.

    Together, they explore how our relationship with food evolves over time, and why protein and fibre play a far more essential role in our health than many of us realise. Dr Rupy shares how inflammation acts like your body’s ‘internal campfire’, providing warmth and protection when in balance, but becoming harmful if it burns too intensely.

    Whilst working as a newly qualified junior doctor, Dr Rupy faced a life-changing health scare when he was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that prompted him to reassess his lifestyle and approach to nutrition.

    Although diet is not a standalone treatment, the conversation between the experts emphasises the meaningful role diet can play in supporting overall health and restoring balance. Additionally, Dr Rupy shares practical tips on becoming a “good guesstimator” of your protein needs at each meal, along with three simple questions to ask yourself daily to support overall wellbeing.

    Available to watch on YouTube

    To learn more about Dr Rupy, visit his Instagram: here and check out The Doctor’s Kitchen Podcast, here and to listen to his previous conversation with Dr Louise in 2022, click here.

    His Doctor’s Kitchen app has lots of science backed recipes, all designed with the latest research in nutrition, and you can even choose specific health goals to focus on, such as to supporting gut health, brain health and lower inflammation. Dr Rupy has kindly offered all of my listeners £5 off if you follow this link: https://tdk.link/louise*

    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 [email protected].uk with 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 - YouTube

    CONNECT WITH DR RUPY

    Website: The Doctor’s Kitchen

    Instagram: Dr Rupy Aujla (@doctors_kitchen) • Instagram photos and videos

    LinkedIn: Dr Rupy Aujla | LinkedIn

    Spotify: The Doctor’s Kitchen Podcast | Podcast on Spotify

    YouTube: The Doctor’s Kitchen - Youtube

    *This is an affiliate link, which means I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up — at no extra cost to you. This is an app I genuinely love and use!

  • "I remember saying to you, do people actually go to work like this? Do they just carry on with normal life? Surely you take two days off and just lie in bed. I just couldn’t comprehend that this was normal, and that women are expected to just live like this."

    This week, Dr. Louise Newson is joined by her daughter, Sophie Anderson, a student at King’s College London, for an honest and insightful conversation about contraception, hormones, and the significant gaps in sex education.

    Sophie shares both her own experiences and those of her peers, highlighting how many young women use birth control not just to prevent pregnancy but also to manage symptoms of PMS, heavy periods, and acne. Dr Newson discusses the lack of education around the differences between natural and synthetic hormones, explaining how this knowledge gap leaves many young people feeling frustrated and unsupported.

    Together, they examine how PMS is so widely normalised that many young women come to expect low moods, fatigue, and pain as simply part of life. This candid mother-daughter conversation calls for a more personalised and informed approach to hormonal health.

    If sex education only teaches how to avoid pregnancy but fails to explain how hormones actually work, are we truly preparing young people to make informed choices?

    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.

    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 [email protected].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

  • 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 [email protected].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: @drlouisenewsonpodcastLinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on Spotify YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube

    Email [email protected].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 [email protected].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: @drlouisenewsonpodcastLinkedIn: Louise Newson | LinkedIn Spotify: The Dr Louise Newson Podcast | Podcast on Spotify YouTube: Dr Louise Newson - YouTube

    Email [email protected].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.

  • 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 [email protected]

  • 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 [email protected].

    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 [email protected].

  • 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 [email protected].

  • 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 ÂŁ250,000 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