122: Hot Take with Sonya and Johanna

Dear Menopause

A captivating conversation between Sonya and Jo explores the rapidly evolving landscape of menopause healthcare, research, and politics in Australia.

In this episode we begin by unpacking the viral podcast between Dr. Rachel Rubin and Dr. Peter Attia – a two-and-a-half hour deep dive into menopause, vaginal health and GSM that's being celebrated as "the best podcast that has been recorded to date on this topic." What makes it exceptional isn't just the content but the peer-to-peer dynamic between two medical professionals sharing both evidence-based information and clinical experience.
The conversation takes a powerful turn when journalist Jamila Rizvi's health journey is discussed. At just 31, a missed period led to the discovery of a rare brain tumour affecting her hormone production – a sobering reminder that health changes should never be dismissed without proper investigation.

This naturally leads us to a discussion of exciting new research published in Clinical Endocrinology that examines the relationship between sex hormones and dementia risk.
Politics takes centre stage as we celebrate Australia's increasingly female Parliament, with two major parties now led by women and gender equality achieved in the Labor cabinet. The shift in ministerial portfolios sees Rebecca White stepping into the Assistant Minister for Health role.

We wrap up with news of an Australian company developing the first new estrogen patch in 22 years, potentially addressing supply issues and skin irritation problems plaguing current options.
Links:

ABC Conversations with Jamila Rizvi

Dr Rachel Rubin and Dr Peter Attia Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Dr Rachel Rubin and Dr Peter Attia Podcast - YouTube

Sex Hormones and Risk of Incident Dementia in Men and Postmenopausal Women - Clinical Endocrinology Article

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Chapters

1. Welcome to Dear Menopause (00:00:00)

2. Dr. Rachel Rubin's Game-Changing Podcast (00:05:25)

3. Jamila Rizvi's Rare Diagnosis (00:15:56)

4. Sex Hormones and Dementia Research (00:21:29)

5. Post-Election Politics and Women's Health (00:25:30)