It Can't Hurt To Ask

Queensland Health

Explore your health questions, concerns and curiosities with It Can’t Hurt To Ask, the new myth-busting podcast from Queensland Health. Featuring interviews with expert clinicians from across Queensland, this podcast takes a deep dive into your curly health questions. Season one focuses on all things blood. From bruises to blood donation, menstruation to mozzie-borne viruses, learn more about your health, inside and out. Stream the latest episodes on your favourite podcast app or watch on the Queensland Health YouTube channel. New episodes drop weekly.

  1. Ep 3 | 0-3 months old: will I ever sleep again?

    6 DAYS AGO

    Ep 3 | 0-3 months old: will I ever sleep again?

    The 'fourth trimester' is real—and it’s a rollercoaster. In Episode 3 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about the first three months of life with a newborn. From sleep deprivation and birth trauma, to bonding with your baby and adjusting to new identities, this episode unpacks why early parenting can feel beautiful, brutal, and everything in between. They’re joined by Nicki, a Lived Experience Coordinator from the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, who shares insights on the realities of the 'fourth trimester', signs of perinatal mental health challenges, and where to find support. You’ll also hear powerful personal stories from parents navigating recovery, exhaustion, shifting relationships, and the gap between expectations and reality. Because if you’ve ever wondered 'am I the only one who feels like this?'... you’re probably not. ❤️ Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available. In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000). The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free...

    42 min
  2. Ep 2 | Pregnancy: mentally preparing for parenthood

    20 OCT

    Ep 2 | Pregnancy: mentally preparing for parenthood

    Pregnancy is often associated with glowing skin and cute baby bumps—but what about when it feels more like nausea, anxiety, and endless 3am Google searches? In Episode 2 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about pregnancy and mental wellbeing. From morning sickness and mood swings to bonding with your baby before they’re born, this episode explores the emotional side of pregnancy that doesn’t always get much airtime. They’re joined by Anna, a midwife from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, who shares practical tips for managing morning sickness, preparing mentally for birth, and knowing when it’s time to seek support. You’ll also hear from Aimee, who shares her honest experience of pregnancy sickness and finding small ways to connect with her baby. Because while pregnancy can be joyful, it can also be overwhelming—and you don’t have to go through it alone. Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available. In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses...

    36 min
  3. Ep 1 | Meet your Parents' Group

    13 OCT

    Ep 1 | Meet your Parents' Group

    What if there was a parents' group you could join from anywhere... one that was honest, supportive, and always had a laugh (or a cry) when you needed it most? In Episode 1 of Parent’s Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin kick off the season by welcoming you into this virtual parent’s group. Together, they share their own parenting journeys — the highs, the challenges, and the messy middle — and set the scene for what’s to come this season. This series will explore the first 2,000 days of your child’s life, from pregnancy through to starting school, with a focus on supporting parents’ mental wellbeing. You’ll hear expert advice from Queensland Health clinicians alongside honest, real stories from parents across the state. Because no matter what stage you’re in, whether you’re soaking up the joy or counting down to bedtime, you’re not alone. Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available. In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000). The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and...

    12 min
  4. Supporting the mental wellbeing of new parents

    SEASON 7 TRAILER

    Supporting the mental wellbeing of new parents

    It Can't Hurt To Ask is back! This season, we’re diving into the different challenges each stage of parenthood presents — from pregnancy through to the preschool years.   You'll hear real stories from Queensland mums and dads navigating the ups and downs of early parenthood, alongside expert clinicians sharing practical advice, insights and answers to the questions, concerns and curiosities every parent has. Catch the first episode to meet your informal 'Parents' Group' when it drops on this feed next week. New episodes will be released weekly. We hope you'll join us. After all, it can't hurt to ask!

    1 min
  5. Ep 6 | Ageing well | How men can future-proof their mind and body and improve longevity

    18 AUG

    Ep 6 | Ageing well | How men can future-proof their mind and body and improve longevity

    This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns. In this episode we're exploring how you can say fit, strong, and resilient as you age. Whether you're 25 or 45, it's never too early to start laying the foundations for healthy ageing. Our featured expert is Dr Eric Chung, professor of surgery at the University of Queensland and a consultant urologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. He's here to share tips to unlock your best self now and into the future. You'll hear from Queensland men, Andrew and Kevin, who share their experiences and views on staying healthy at any age. Learn about the many factors affecting ageing well. Besides the more obvious ones, such as a healthy diet and exercise, you'll also hear about the effects of risky behaviours, family history, chronic conditions, substance use, mental wellbeing, social connectedness, happiness, and even your sex life, on healthy ageing. If you'd like to learn more about men's health, listen to the other men's health episodes in this brand-new season. Please leave us a review—we'd love to hear your thoughts. Episode Resources:Ageing wellEveryone deserves to live well and maintain their health and independence into the future. To learn more, visit the Australian Government's websites: Positive ageing is ageing well and Tips for healthy ageing. Many factors influence healthy ageing. Some of these, such as genetics, are not in our control. Others—such as exercise, a healthy diet, going to the doctor regularly, and taking care of our mental health—are within our reach. ExercisePhysical activity is important at any age for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. It reduces the risk of many diseases, including some cancers. Learn how much exercise you should be doing and how to fit it into your day by reading the Physical activity and exercise guidelines for all Australians and the Choose Health, Be Active booklet. DietMaking smart food choices can help protect you from certain health problems as you age and may even help improve brain function. Visit the Australian guide to healthy eating for more information. Mental health and wellbeing Mental health, or mental wellness, is essential to your overall health and quality of life. It affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others. Managing social isolation, loneliness, stress, depression, and mood through medical and self-care is key to healthy ageing. If you feel that you may be in need of mental health support and have never accessed a mental health service before, our mental health access line 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) is available 24/7. This is a confidential mental health telephone triage service and is the first point of contact to Queensland public mental health...

    36 min
  6. Ep 5 | Chronic conditions | How genes and lifestyle increase a man's risk

    11 AUG

    Ep 5 | Chronic conditions | How genes and lifestyle increase a man's risk

    This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns. This episode, we’re talking about chronic conditions—complex health conditions that can be long term or lifelong—and how genes and lifestyle can increase or decrease a man's risk. Chronic conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in Australia, where over half of our population lives with at least one. They include cancer, heart disease, diabetes, kidney and autoimmune disease, vascular, lung, neurological and mental health conditions, and more. Our featured expert is urologist and Professor of Surgery, Dr Eric Chung, who shares his deep knowledge of what affects men’s health and how many chronic conditions are preventable or manageable. You'll also hear from Queensland men, Sam and Dan, who share their life experiences with chronic conditions such as hypertension, stroke, and chronic pain. What are the effects of genetics, diet, exercise, sleep, and stress on your chances of developing a chronic condition? How can technology help to reduce your risk? Where can you seek support? Listen to find out. If you'd like to learn more about men's health, listen to other men's health episodes in our brand-new season. Also listen out for our final episode this season, where we explore how Queensland men can age well. Please leave us a review—we'd love to hear your thoughts. Episode resources:Chronic conditionsMany Australians live with chronic conditions, which can cause illness, disability and even death. Chronic conditions can lower your quality of life and may affect your independence. You can take an active role in managing and preventing chronic conditions. You can work with your GP and specialist to manage your condition, reduce your risk and improve your quality of life. To learn more, visit the Australian Government's chronic conditions website. Where to get help13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) is a confidential phone service that provides health advice to Queenslanders. You can phone and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the cost of a local call. 13 HEALTH provides qualified health advice—it is not a diagnostic service and should not replace medical consultation. In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000). Virtual emergency care is also available in Queensland. Visit our Virtual Emergency Care Service between 8am - 10pm for free specialist emergency care services, by telephone or video conferencing. You can also access the Health Direct symptom checker. If you feel that you may be in need of mental health support and have never accessed a mental health service before, our mental health access line 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) is available 24/7. This is a confidential mental health telephone triage service and is the first point of contact to Queensland public mental health services. Organisations like Beyond Blue (1300 22...

    36 min
  7. Ep 4 | Substance use | Alcohol, drugs and performance hacks for men

    4 AUG

    Ep 4 | Substance use | Alcohol, drugs and performance hacks for men

    [Content warning: This episode contains discussions about drug and alcohol use. Substance use is nuanced with many contributing factors which cannot be fully covered in this episode.] Join us for season 3 of It Can't Hurt To Ask to take a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns. This episode, we're tackling substance use—alcohol and drugs, including performance drugs. You'll hear from our expert, Advance Peer Worker, Himalaya, who'll take us through some of the science and psychological factors behind drug and alcohol use, how and when to seek help, how drugs and alcohol impact the body, and the risks associated with all drug use, including performance drugs. You'll also hear from Queensland man, Tim, about his own experiences as a young person drinking alcohol and being around friends using drugs, and from young Queenslander, Phoenix, who has a question about the risks of mixing alcohol and drugs. For anyone who recreationally uses drugs or alcohol, is struggling with alcohol and other drug use, or is worried about family or friends, this episode is for you. How do drugs and alcohol affect the body? Why do people use drugs and alcohol? How can I reduce my risk when taking drugs or drinking? Where can I get support for me or my family or friends? What risks are you taking when you use steroids? Listen to find out. If you'd like to learn more about men's health, tune in to our brand-new season. Keep your ears open for our next episode. Feel free to leave us a review too—we'd love to hear your thoughts. Episode Resources: AdisIf you're concerned about your own or someone else's alcohol and other drugs use. Call Adis 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Support on 1800 177 833. You can also visit their website for more information or to chat with a counsellor online. If you or someone you know needs urgent help call triple zero (000) or go to your nearest emergency department. Signs to look out forIf you are worried about your drug use or concerned for someone you know, there are indicators to look out for which include spending large amounts of time getting, using or recovering from the effects, using in greater amounts, needing to use more to get the same effect, difficulty stopping or cutting back, cravings, withdrawal symptoms and experiencing problems in your social life. Not sure? Take this quiz to see if your drug or alcohol use is risky. Alcohol guidelines Alcohol affects everyone in different ways and it’s important to know that drinking is never completely safe. The Australian Alcohol Guidelines recommend: healthy adults should drink no more than 10 standard drinks in a week, and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one daypeople under 18, and women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding shouldn't drink any alcohol. AlcoholIs one more worth it? You could be cracking open a splitting headache, with a hangover leaving you feeling tired and irritable. Wouldn’t you rather a deep, restorative sleep leaving you firing on all cylinders tomorrow? Cutting back has many benefits to your overall health. Learn more about how reducing your drinking will have you looking and feeling your best visiting the keep an eye on your drinking website. DrugsUnderstanding different drug types will help you to recognise the effects and potential

    40 min
  8. Ep 3 | Sexual health | Optimising male sexual health, function and fertility

    28 JUL

    Ep 3 | Sexual health | Optimising male sexual health, function and fertility

    This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns. This episode, we’re talking about men’s sexual health, function and fertility. Our featured expert is urologist and Professor of Surgery, Dr Eric Chung, who shares his deep knowledge of what affects men’s sexual and reproductive health. You'll also hear from Queensland men, Phoenix and Greg, who asks what happens to your sexual health as you age. For anyone who is sexually active, struggling with sexual performance, trying to conceive or avoid unwanted pregnancy, this episode is for you. We will explain the science and physiological factors behind libido and erectile dysfunction, sperm health, sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and more. How can men optimise sexual function? What long-term effects do STIs have on our health? Is the fact that you’ve never had a pregnancy scare actually a sign of infertility? What can we do to bio hack our sperm? Listen to find out. If you'd like to learn more about men's health, tune in to our brand-new season. Keep your ears open for our next episode, where we explore alcohol and substance use. Feel free to leave us a review too—we'd love to hear your thoughts. Episode resources:Stop the RiseSTIs are on the rise, often because of unprotected sexual activity and many infections go undetected. Stop the Rise provides free resources and information about how to prevent catching STIs (did someone say free condoms?) and what to do when you need an STI check. Some STIs can go unnoticed, but they can impact your overall and long-term health. If you’re sexually active, using a condom with water-based lube and getting regular sexual health check-ups are the best way to protect yourself and your partner/s from STIs. Struggling with erectile dysfunction or infertility?If you're having a hard time with erectile dysfunction, it's important to check in with your GP. Many things can affect impotence, so seeking professional advice can help to identify and address the root cause. When it comes to fertility challenges, both partners can be affected. It's important that both parties see the GP to determine whether specialist help is needed. Infertility can be an emotionally and mentally challenging experience. Depending on your situation, you may consider seeking support from a fertility counsellor. Emergency care in QueenslandIf you’re not sure if your medical condition requires emergency care, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). Registered nurses are available 24 hours a day. They will advise you on what to do and if you need to go to a GP, pharmacy or emergency department. In an emergency call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Virtual emergency care is also available in Queensland. Visit our Virtual Emergency Care Service between 8am - 10pm for free specialist emergency care services, by telephone or video conferencing. You can also access the Health Direct symptom checker.

    32 min
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Trailers

About

Explore your health questions, concerns and curiosities with It Can’t Hurt To Ask, the new myth-busting podcast from Queensland Health. Featuring interviews with expert clinicians from across Queensland, this podcast takes a deep dive into your curly health questions. Season one focuses on all things blood. From bruises to blood donation, menstruation to mozzie-borne viruses, learn more about your health, inside and out. Stream the latest episodes on your favourite podcast app or watch on the Queensland Health YouTube channel. New episodes drop weekly.

Information

  • Creator
    Queensland Health
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Queensland Health
  • Show Website
    It Can't Hurt To Ask

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