Confessions of a Male Gynecologist

Shawn Tassone MD PhD
  • 4.9 (62)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Weekly

A podcast by America's Holistic Gynecologist for women navigating reproductive and hormonal health concerns. From menstrual irregularities to menopausal symptoms, hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, endometriosis, PCOS, and the variety of conditions routinely dismissed in clinical settings. Drawing from over 50,000 patient consultations, Dr. Tassone shares evidence-based solutions and patient success stories to optimize hormonal health and overall wellbeing.

  1. 1d ago

    171: Are Your Hormones Actually Broken… or Are You Being Sold a Problem?

    Confession: Just because your doctor ignored you doesn't mean the wellness industry automatically deserves your credit card. Women are finally talking about hormones, perimenopause, menopause, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, libido, fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, and hormone replacement therapy, and that is a good thing. But now that women's hormones are trending, everyone seems to have something to sell: a test, a pellet, a peptide, a supplement stack, a detox, or a one-size-fits-all "optimization" protocol. In this episode, America's Holistic Gynecologist breaks down one of the biggest questions women are asking right now: Are Your Hormones Actually Broken… or Are You Being Sold a Problem? Dr. Tassone discusses the difference between real hormone dysfunction, normal hormonal transition, medical dismissal, non-hormonal health issues, and wellness marketing disguised as personalized care. He explains why "normal labs" do not always mean everything is fine, why symptoms matter but are not a diagnosis by themselves, and why more testing, more hormones, or more supplements do not always equal better medicine. This episode also dives into some of the most common hormone and wellness traps women are falling into, including testosterone hype, hormone pellets, "bioidentical" marketing, advanced hormone testing, peptides, NAD, supplement stacking, and fear-based wellness messaging. If you have ever been told your labs are normal but still knew something felt off, or if you have felt overwhelmed by conflicting hormone advice online, this episode will help you ask better questions, spot red flags, understand what thoughtful hormone care should actually look like, and separate real hormone care from hormone marketing.  In This Episode, Dr. Tassone Covers: Why women are being caught between medical dismissal and wellness marketing The 4 reasons women may feel "hormonal" Why symptoms matter, but symptoms alone are not always a diagnosis Why normal labs should not automatically end the conversation The difference between real hormone care and a product-based protocol Common red flags in hormone clinics, wellness programs, and online hormone advice Why testosterone can be helpful for some women, but is not a magic fix The problem with overselling hormone pellets as "natural" or universally safer Why a $700 hormone test is not the same thing as a treatment plan How peptides, NAD, longevity trends, and supplement stacks can be overmarketed What informed consent should look like in hormone care How women can tell if they are being educated, dismissed, or sold to What personalized hormone care should actually include Red Flags Dr. Tassone Wants Women to Watch For: Every woman receives the same protocol The answer is always the product, hormone, test, or supplement being sold Fear is used before physiology is explained Risks, side effects, contraindications, and alternatives are not discussed Hormone testing is used to confuse instead of clarify Symptoms are blamed on one single hormone or pathway The provider promises one thing will fix everything There is no thoughtful follow-up or dose adjustment You leave feeling broken, scared, or pressured instead of informed What Dr. Tassone Believes Good Hormone Care Should Include: A detailed medical history A clear symptom timeline Review of medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors Menstrual, perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause status Thyroid, metabolic, inflammatory, adrenal, and nutritional context Thoughtful lab testing when clinically appropriate A risk-benefit conversation Discussion of alternatives Individualized dosing Ongoing follow-up Adjustments based on symptoms, labs, and response to treatment If this episode helped you understand the difference between real hormone care and wellness marketing, share it with a woman who has been told her labs are normal but still knows something feels off. For more honest conversations about women's health, hormones, perimenopause, menopause, and medical misinformation, subscribe to the podcast and follow Dr. Tassone on social for daily updates! Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Please contact the clinic directly at (512) 956- 0296 with all scheduling inquiries. Purchase Dr. Tassone's Best-Selling Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Discover Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  2. Jul 16

    170: Why Your Gut Changes in Menopause and the Nutrition Mistakes Making It Worse with Cynthia Thurlow

    What does your gut have to do with your hormones, mood, weight, and menopause symptoms? Potentially more than you realize. In this episode of Confessions of a Male Gynecologist, Dr. Shawn Tassone sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, NP, to explore the complex relationship between gut health, hormonal changes, nutrition, and weight management during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Cynthia shares how a personal health crisis changed the direction of her work and led her to take a deeper look at the gut microbiome. Together, she and Dr. Tassone discuss why digestive symptoms often change during midlife, how chronic stress can disrupt the gut, and why weight-loss resistance is rarely caused by one single issue. They also address some of the most common nutrition mistakes women make, including under-eating protein, relying heavily on processed foods, consuming more carbohydrates than their bodies tolerate well, and overlooking the impact of alcohol on sleep, metabolism, and weight-loss goals. You'll also hear their perspectives on restrictive diets, gut testing, supplements, fermented foods, plant diversity, and the importance of choosing high-quality dietary fats. This conversation is not about following another rigid wellness protocol. It is about understanding how your gut, hormones, nutrition, stress, and lifestyle work together—and making informed choices that support your health during midlife. In this episode, you'll learn: Why gut health can change during perimenopause and menopause How the gut microbiome may influence hormones, mood, and digestion Why chronic stress can affect both digestive and metabolic health The many factors that can contribute to weight-loss resistance Why women need adequate protein to preserve muscle as they age How alcohol can interfere with sleep, metabolism, and weight management Why processed foods can make overeating easier The potential limitations of highly restrictive diets, including carnivore diets How gastrointestinal testing may uncover concerns such as H. pylori Why supplements should be selected based on individual needs The benefits of adding fermented foods to your diet Why Cynthia recommends aiming for 30 different plant varieties each week What to consider when purchasing olive oil How women can feel more empowered, not restricted, by their nutrition choices Gut symptoms, hormonal changes, and weight concerns should not automatically be dismissed as an unavoidable part of aging. By looking at the full picture, women can better understand what their bodies need and make more sustainable decisions for their long-term health. Listen now, share this episode with a woman navigating midlife, and subscribe to Confessions of a Male Gynecologist for honest, evidence-informed conversations about women's health, hormones, menopause, and wellness. About Cynthia Thurlow, NP Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, host of the Everyday Wellness podcast, author and international speaker, with over 15 million views for her second TEDx talk (Intermittent Fasting: Transformational Technique). With over 25 years of experience in health and wellness, Cynthia is a globally recognized expert in perimenopause/menopause and intermittent fasting, and has been featured on ABC, FOX5, KTLA, CW, Medium, Entrepreneur, and The Megyn Kelly Show. Her mission is to help empower women to live their most optimal lives in perimenopause and beyond. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Instagram | @cynthia_thurlow_ Listen to the Everyday Wellness Podcast Purchase The Menopause Gut by Cynthia Thurlow, NP Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  3. Jul 9

    169: Do I Really Have a Hormone Imbalance? What Every Woman Needs to Know

    For years, women were told their symptoms were "all in their head." Fatigue, brain fog, irregular periods, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, anxiety, insomnia, weight changes — dismissed, minimized, or blamed on stress. But now the pendulum has swung hard in the opposite direction. Spend five minutes on Instagram or TikTok and you'll likely be told your cortisol is too high, your estrogen is too high, your progesterone is too low, your testosterone needs optimizing, your gut is destroying your hormones, and every symptom you have is proof of a hormone imbalance. So which is it? In this episode of Confessions of a Male Gynecologist, Dr. Shawn Tassone breaks down the growing trend of "hormone marketing" and why women should be cautious when influencers, health coaches, and even providers outside their scope claim to have the answer after a 30-second reel. Dr. Tassone makes one thing clear: hormones absolutely matter. Hormone imbalance is real. Perimenopause, menopause, thyroid dysfunction, low testosterone, estrogen imbalance, and progesterone issues can deeply affect a woman's quality of life, but not every symptom is automatically hormonal — and women deserve more than fear-based marketing, supplement funnels, cortisol cocktails, and oversimplified protocols. This episode is a reminder that validation should be the beginning of a medical evaluation, not the end. In this episode, you will learn: Why women went from being told "it's all in your head" to "it's all your hormones" How hormone imbalance became one of the biggest wellness marketing buzzwords Why women are especially vulnerable to hormone misinformation online The difference between symptoms and a true diagnosis Why fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, anxiety, and weight gain can have many possible causes Red flags in social media hormone advice Why "what your doctor didn't tell you" and "Big Pharma doesn't want you to know" are often sales hooks How medical gaslighting created space for online hormone scams Why a good doctor starts with questions, not a pre-packaged answer How to think critically before buying into hormone protocols, programs, or supplements Why women deserve both validation and evidence-based care Your symptoms are real — but they deserve a real evaluation. Hormones may be part of the answer, but they are not always the entire answer. The goal is not to convince every woman she needs hormones. The goal is to help women understand their bodies with evidence, compassion, and common sense. Listen if you've ever wondered: Are my symptoms really hormonal? Can social media hormone advice be trusted? How do I know if I'm being helped or marketed to? What should I look for in a hormone expert? Why do normal labs not always tell the full story? How do I avoid scams while still advocating for myself? Work With Dr. Tassone Dr. Tassone is licensed in 48 states and works with women across the country through in-person and virtual care, with the exception of Massachusetts and Alaska. To schedule an appointment, call: 512-956-0296 Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  4. Jul 2

    168: IBS, Hashimoto's, and the Hidden Gut Triggers Women Are Often Missing with Dr. Izabella Wentz

    Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is one of the most common digestive diagnoses women receive — but what if it's not the full story? In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone sits down with Dr. Izabella Wentz to unpack the deeper root causes behind IBS, gut symptoms, food sensitivities, and the connection between digestive health and autoimmune disease. Dr. Wentz shares her own personal journey with IBS and Hashimoto's, including how conventional medicine often stops at symptom management instead of asking why the gut is struggling in the first place. Together, Dr. Tassone and Dr. Wentz explore what "normal" digestion should actually look like, why IBS is frequently diagnosed based on symptoms alone, and why many women are left searching for answers when standard treatments don't work. This conversation dives into the role of dietary triggers like gluten, dairy, and food additives, as well as nutritional deficiencies such as magnesium and zinc that may contribute to bloating, constipation, diarrhea, discomfort, and ongoing digestive issues. Dr. Wentz also explains how intestinal permeability — often referred to as "leaky gut" — may play a role in autoimmune conditions and why infections like SIBO and H. pylori are commonly found in women with IBS symptoms. You'll also hear why medications, environmental toxins, and hidden inflammatory triggers may worsen gut health, plus how functional testing can help uncover what is actually driving symptoms instead of masking them. Whether you've been diagnosed with IBS, struggle with bloating or unpredictable digestion, have Hashimoto's or another autoimmune condition, or feel like your symptoms have been dismissed as "normal," this episode offers a more empowering way to understand your gut. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why IBS is often diagnosed without strict testing criteria What healthy digestive function should actually look like The most common dietary triggers behind IBS symptoms How gluten, dairy, and food additives may impact gut health Why magnesium, zinc, and other nutritional deficiencies matter The connection between intestinal permeability and autoimmune disease How SIBO, H. pylori, and infections can worsen IBS symptoms Why some medications and environmental toxins may disrupt the gut How functional medicine testing can help identify root causes Why women are more likely to experience IBS and gut-related symptoms The role genetics and family history may play in IBS susceptibility If you've been told your gut symptoms are "just IBS" but you still don't feel better, this episode is for you. Listen now to learn what may be driving your digestive symptoms — and what questions to ask next. About Dr. Izabella Wentz, Pharm.D., FASCP Dr. Izabella Wentz, Pharm.D., FASCP, is a clinical pharmacist, functional medicine expert, and New York Times bestselling author specializing in Hashimoto's, thyroid health, adrenal health, and root-cause approaches to chronic symptoms. After being diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis in 2009, Dr. Wentz dedicated her work to helping patients uncover the lifestyle, nutritional, environmental, and functional medicine factors that contribute to autoimmune thyroid disease and related symptoms. She is the author of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Hashimoto's Protocol, Hashimoto's Food Pharmacology, and Adrenal Transformation Protocol, and the creator of the documentary series The Thyroid Secret. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Fox News, and MindBodyGreen. Connect with Dr. Wentz Support your gut health journey with the IBS Book (available now!) Get the Adrenal Transformation Protocol book Learn more about the Hashimoto's Food Pharmacology cookbook Learn more about the Hashimoto's Protocol book Learn more about the Root Cause book Take the Hashimoto's Self-Management Program Learn more about supplements Own your copy of The Thyroid Secret Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  5. Jun 25

    167: Has Menopause Become The New Wellness Industry

    In this episode of Confessions of a Male Gynecologist, Dr. Shawn Tassone takes on one of the most confusing and controversial areas in women's health: hormone therapy. From menopause myths and fear-based medicine to wellness industry scams and influencer-driven misinformation, Dr. Tassone breaks down what women need to know before blindly following advice online — or accepting outdated medical opinions that don't match their symptoms. For decades, women have been told to fear estrogen, ignore symptoms, accept "normal labs," or believe that menopause is simply something they have to suffer through. But the truth is more nuanced. Hormone therapy can be life-changing when it is personalized, monitored, and based on the individual — not just a protocol, a trend, or a sales pitch. Dr. Tassone discusses the lasting impact of the Women's Health Initiative study, the rise of bioidentical hormone marketing, the misuse of testosterone in women, and why both conventional medicine and functional medicine can fall short when they stop treating the person in front of them. This episode is a call for critical thinking in women's health — because women deserve education, not fear. Options, not shame. And care that goes deeper than "your labs are normal." In This Episode, Dr. Tassone Covers: The biggest myths about hormone therapy and menopause care Why estrogen has been unfairly blamed and misunderstood What the Women's Health Initiative got wrong — and why it still impacts care today The difference between evidence-based hormone therapy and marketing-driven hormone trends Why "bioidentical" does not automatically mean better or safer How wellness scams target women who feel ignored by conventional medicine The problem with influencer-led menopause and hormone advice Why testosterone therapy for women needs nuance, context, and proper monitoring How telehealth hormone clinics can oversimplify care Why treating labs alone is not the same as treating the patient How women can identify credible hormone health information online Hormone therapy is not one-size-fits-all. The goal is not to chase perfect lab numbers, follow a trending protocol, or fear estrogen because of outdated headlines. The goal is to treat the individual woman — her symptoms, history, risks, goals, and quality of life. Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  6. Jun 9

    166: AI, Robotics, and the Future of Gynecologic Surgery with Dr. Sanjeev Kumar

    Artificial intelligence and robotic surgery are no longer "future medicine" — they're already changing the way physicians diagnose, operate, and care for patients. In this episode of Confessions of a Male Gynecologist, Dr. Shawn Tassone sits down with Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, a gynecologic oncologist, to discuss how AI, robotics, genetic testing, and personalized medicine are transforming women's healthcare — especially in gynecologic oncology. From the evolution of robotic surgery to the growing role of AI in pathology, diagnostics, and cancer detection, this conversation breaks down what these advancements mean for both physicians and patients. Dr. Tassone and Dr. Kumar explore the benefits, limitations, and future possibilities of technology in medicine, while also asking the bigger question: how do we use innovation without losing the human side of healthcare? This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of medicine, women's health, cancer care, and how emerging technology may change the patient experience. In This Episode, We Cover: How AI is already impacting healthcare and surgical decision-making The evolution of robotic surgery in gynecology and oncology Why robotics changed the way many gynecologic surgeries are performed The role of AI in diagnostics, pathology, and cancer detection How genetic testing is shaping personalized medicine What patients should understand about technology in modern medicine The benefits and limitations of artificial intelligence in healthcare The future of gynecologic oncology and patient-centered care Why technology should support physicians — not replace them How innovation may improve outcomes, efficiency, and precision in medicine Connect with Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Media Profile | https://www.guestsonair.com/profile/dr-sanjeev-kumar LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjeev-kumar-md-34781a84/ Website | https://www.drsanjeevkumarsurgeon.com/ About Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Dr. Sanjeev Kumar is a gynecologic oncologist and robotic pelvic surgeon whose career has been defined by technical excellence, intellectual rigor, and a clear sense of purpose. Born in India, he completed medical school there, went on to train in England and Wales through the MRCS, and later continued his surgical education in the United States, ultimately building a career that placed him among the country's leading figures in robotic pelvic surgery. That path reflects a career shaped by discipline, international training, and an enduring commitment to surgical mastery. His work sits at the intersection of some of the most demanding questions in medicine: women's cancers, advanced pelvic surgery, and the evolving role of robotics and AI in the operating room. He entered robotic surgery in 2006, early enough to help shape the field rather than merely follow it, and in 2017 was reported as the eighth busiest robotic pelvic surgeon in the United States by volume. That distinction matters not as a statistic, but as evidence of depth, repetition, and mastery in one of surgery's most exacting specialties. Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  7. Jun 2

    165: Reproductive Healthcare Revolution: What Women Need to Know with Nikki Sapiro Vinckier

    In this insightful interview, Dr. Shawn Tassone is joined by OBGYN PA, Nikki Sapiro Vinckier, to discuss the broken state of reproductive healthcare, its historical roots, and how women can advocate for better care. She shares personal stories, systemic issues, and practical advice for patients and clinicians alike including information about her new book, We Deserve More. Episode Highlights: History of gynecology and systemic disparities Impact of social media on women's health information Gaps in medical training and patient care Systemic issues leading to women's healthcare neglect About Nikki Sapiro Vinckier: Nikki Sapiro Vinckier, PA-C, is an OB/GYN Physician Assistant, reproductive health advocate, and founder of Take Back Trust, a national platform helping people navigate their reproductive healthcare with clarity and confidence. After more than a decade in clinical medicine, she now works at the intersection of medicine, media, and movement, creating tools, education, and storytelling that empower patients to advocate for themselves in a changing healthcare landscape. Her work has reached millions across digital platforms, where she is known for her clear, compassionate, and deeply human approach to reproductive care. We Deserve More is her debut book. Episode Resources: Dr. Tassone's Free Women's Health Journal Club | Dr. T's Evidence Edit Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormonal Archetype Quiz Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

  8. May 19

    164: The Truth Behind The Pepcid and Zyrtec Brains Fog Claims

    Can Pepsid Really Help Menopause Brain Fog? | The Science Behind the Viral Claim Women are constantly being flooded with viral health advice online — especially when it comes to menopause symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, anxiety, and inflammation. But how much of it is actually backed by science? In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone breaks down the growing social media trend claiming that antihistamines like Pepsid may help relieve menopause brain fog and other hormonal symptoms. Dr. Tassone explores where these claims originated, the role histamines may play in the body, how estrogen can influence mast cells and histamine release, and why women are searching for alternative answers in the first place. You'll also hear an honest conversation about misinformation in women's health, the dangers of turning one case report into medical advice, and why evidence-based medicine still matters — even in the age of TikTok wellness trends. If you've ever struggled with menopause brain fog, felt dismissed by conventional healthcare, or wondered whether viral hormone "hacks" actually work, this episode is for you. In This Episode, Dr. Tassone Discusses: What menopause brain fog actually is Why antihistamines like Pepsid are trending online The connection between estrogen, mast cells, and histamines What histamines do in the body Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and hormone symptoms Why social media health claims spread so quickly The risks of misinformation in women's health The placebo effect and symptom improvement Why one study or case report is not enough evidence How to approach menopause symptoms from an evidence-based perspective Episode Resources: Dr. Tassone's Free Women's Health Journal Club | Dr. T's Evidence Edit Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormonal Archetype Quiz Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

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About

A podcast by America's Holistic Gynecologist for women navigating reproductive and hormonal health concerns. From menstrual irregularities to menopausal symptoms, hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, endometriosis, PCOS, and the variety of conditions routinely dismissed in clinical settings. Drawing from over 50,000 patient consultations, Dr. Tassone shares evidence-based solutions and patient success stories to optimize hormonal health and overall wellbeing.

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