Fempower Health: The Chronic Pelvic Pain Channel

Welcome to Fempower Health—where empowering women through every stage of life isn't just our mission; it's our passion. Fempower Health is a beacon for women navigating the complex world of healthcare, providing a supportive platform where your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed with the compassion and understanding you deserve. Our podcast, a central hub for empowering information, is dedicated to women who find themselves on an exhausting quest for answers to their health questions and perhaps experience medical gaslighting. Fempower Health is here to light the way forward for those struggling with chronic pelvic pain. Our content is meticulously designed with your needs in mind, focusing on essential women's health topics such as female reproductive health, managing menopause symptoms, autoimmune diseases, female cancers, endometriosis, and the journey of trying to conceive. We delve into often taboo topics like menstrual health, the complexities of perimenopause and menopause, and the critical balance of the gut and vaginal microbiome. Recognizing the holistic nature of health, we also cover women's mental health, pain management, pelvic health, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy and motherhood, thyroid disease, and female sexual health. At Fempower Health, you'll gain access to world-renowned healthcare experts, including doctors, researchers, patient advocates, and women who share your struggles, providing a multifaceted perspective on health issues. We discuss not only the condition itself but also what is known versus unknown, empowering you with strategies to effectively communicate with your healthcare provider and guidance on finding the right specialists for your needs. Beyond the podcast, Fempower Health extends its support through a rich array of women's health resources available on our website. Stay connected and informed through our social media channels and newsletter, where we continue to share health tips for women and the latest developments in women's healthcare. Our founder, Georgie Kovacs, is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the healthcare system, and brings a personal touch to Fempower Health. Having navigated her own health journey and advocated for her family through the intricacies of the healthcare system, she ensures that Fempower Health stands as a trustworthy and diligent advocate for women's health. This dedication is reflected in the rigorous vetting process for all guests, ensuring that you receive reliable, actionable information. Join Fempower Health, the ultimate women's health podcast, as we explore, educate, and empower you to take control of your health journey. Here, we not only discuss what matters but also provide a path forward, breaking the silence on critical health issues and offering a community where you are seen, heard, and valued. 📣 Get the latest women's health news via the weekly newsletter: https://fempower-health-chronic-pelvic-pain.beehiiv.com/subscribe 📲 Stay Connected: Follow Fempower Health for more engaging content, expert interviews, and resources on women's health and wellness on 🌐 Website: https://www.fempower-health.com 🔅 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain 🔅 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain 🔅Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/pelvic_pain_hub 🔅TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain

  1. UTI Symptoms But No Infection? What’s Really Going On with Your Bladder | Dr. Tamra Lewis - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    11/18/2025 · BONUS

    UTI Symptoms But No Infection? What’s Really Going On with Your Bladder | Dr. Tamra Lewis - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Honoring Bladder Health Month! Originally Published September 2024. In this episode of Fempower Health, Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urogynecologist, discusses bladder health, UTI misdiagnoses, and how pelvic floor dysfunction, menopause, and the microbiome impact bladder issues in women. Learn how to advocate for better care and understand your symptoms. Bladder Health Episode SummaryIn this episode of Fempower Health, we sit down with Dr. Tamra Lewis, a board-certified urologist specializing in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (also known as urogynecology). Dr. Lewis shares her expertise on common bladder health issues affecting women, many of which are frequently misdiagnosed as urinary tract infections (UTIs). We explore the importance of accurate diagnoses, the potential causes of bladder issues, and how women can better advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. This episode is essential listening for women seeking clarity on their bladder health and for clinicians looking to improve patient outcomes. Discussion Points: Why are so many women misdiagnosing themselves with UTIs?What are the common symptoms of bladder problems in women?How can women better describe bladder issues to their healthcare provider?What are the underlying causes of frequent bladder issues in women?How can you tell the difference between a UTI and other bladder problems?Why is it important to have a pelvic exam for bladder issues?How does pelvic floor dysfunction contribute to bladder symptoms?What are the most effective treatments for overactive bladder?How can you prevent recurring urinary tract infections?What role does menopause play in bladder health?What is the impact of the microbiome on bladder health and UTIs?Why should women advocate for more thorough evaluations from their doctors? "It's easier to treat a small problem than to let a small problem become a bigger problem." - Dr. Tamra LewisRelated to this Bladder Health episode:Learn more about Dr. Tamra Lewis and follow her on LinkedIn and InstagramCheck out Fempower Health resources on Pelvic Health 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** Fempower Health Guest BioDr. Tamra Lewis holds board...

    43 min
  2. Why Women’s Health Still Gets Dismissed — And How We Can Fix It - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    11/11/2025 · BONUS

    Why Women’s Health Still Gets Dismissed — And How We Can Fix It - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Episode SummaryWhy does it still feel like women aren’t being heard in the doctor’s office? Dr. Sharon Malone joins Georgie Kovacs to unpack the structural, cultural, and economic forces that have eroded trust between women and their healthcare providers. From the loss of physician autonomy to outdated reimbursement systems and the chronic undervaluation of women’s health fields, this candid conversation reveals how the system got here—and what it will take to fix it. Together, Georgie and Dr. Malone explore solutions ranging from patient empowerment to digital health and the need for systemic reform in research, policy, and payment. ResourcesMalone S. Grown Woman Talk. 2024.NIH Data Book (2022): https://report.nih.gov/funding/categorical-spendingMarch of Dimes. Nowhere to Go: Maternity Care Deserts Report, 2023.Fitzgerald J., King L. Price and Prejudice: Reimbursement of Surgical Care on Male Versus Female Anatomies 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.** **May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

    40 min
  3. AI Won’t Fix Healthcare if It Ignores Women | Dr. Nikita Patel - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    09/30/2025 · BONUS

    AI Won’t Fix Healthcare if It Ignores Women | Dr. Nikita Patel - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Episode Summary AI is everywhere — from apps on our phones to tools shaping clinical care. But what does it really mean for women’s health? Could AI finally close the health gap — or will it reinforce the same frustrations women already face in the doctor’s office? In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs sits down with Dr. Nikita Patel, a pharmacist, biomedical engineer, and healthcare innovation leader with 15 years of experience across biopharma, digital health, and AI. Nikita has held leadership roles including Director of Clinical Research & AI at Function Health, and she brings a multidisciplinary perspective on how data, diagnostics, and emerging technologies can transform health and human performance. Together, Georgie and Niki unpack what’s misunderstood about AI in healthcare, why women’s health needs its own data lens, and how clinicians and patients alike can use AI responsibly today. Discussion PointsWhat is AI in healthcare really doing behind the buzzword?Why is women’s health data missing — and how does this bias impact AI tools?How can women use AI to better advocate for themselves in doctor visits?Can AI improve clinical trials and drug development for women?What privacy risks should women and clinicians know about when using AI apps?How can healthcare providers evaluate whether an “AI-powered” tool is credible?What’s the future of personalized care — could digital twins and AI change everything?Who is responsible for setting standards for AI in women’s health? 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.** **May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

    1h 1m
  4. Pain Relief for Endometriosis | Dr. Allyson Shrikhande - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    09/23/2025 · BONUS

    Pain Relief for Endometriosis | Dr. Allyson Shrikhande - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Originally Published May 2024. Re-sharing in honor of Chronic Pain Awareness Month Are there ways to find pain relief for endometriosis? Listen as Dr. Allyson Shrikhande shares her expert insights on a whole-person approach to pain management.  Episode Summary In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs hosts Dr. Allyson Shrikhande, a specialist in pelvic rehabilitation medicine. They explore the important topic of managing pelvic pain associated with endometriosis.  Dr. Shrikhande discusses the complex symptoms and challenges of diagnosing endometriosis, which often go beyond typical menstrual discomfort and can even affect areas such as bladder function and sexual health. They discuss innovative, non-surgical approaches to pain management, incorporating targeted treatments and lifestyle modifications. Listen to gain insights into holistic, patient-centered methods that make significant relief possible for those battling chronic pelvic pain. Key Discussion Points: The diverse and often misunderstood symptoms of endometriosisEndometriosis’ impact on the menstrual cycle, bladder, bowel functions, and pain during intercourseNon-surgical methods for pelvic pain management when living with endometriosis Why detecting endometriosis early can change the course of treatment and potentially lessen the need for invasive proceduresNerve and muscle rehabilitation treatment options that provide relief without the complications associated with surgeryBenefits of a whole-person approach to managing endometriosis, which includes nutritional support, behavioral health, and physical therapyDr. Shrikhande emphasizes the need for greater awareness and education about endometriosis among both healthcare providers and patients "There are a lot of myths about pain management. It’s not just about pain relief; it’s about restoring function and managing the disease holistically." - Dr. Allyson ShrikhandeRelated to this episode: Resources on Pelvic HealthRead Beating EndoTry Your Pace YogaLearn more about Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine and follow them on Instagram.Stay in touch with Dr Allyson Shrikhande and follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn. 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join...

    30 min
  5. The Real Barriers to Women’s Health Innovation | Joanna Strober - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    09/16/2025 · BONUS

    The Real Barriers to Women’s Health Innovation | Joanna Strober - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Episode SummaryWomen’s health faces systemic challenges that too often leave women without answers — especially in midlife, when care becomes fragmented and reimbursement models make solutions hard to scale. In this episode of Fempower Health, Georgie Kovacs speaks with Joanna Strober, CEO and co-founder of Midi Health and a seasoned entrepreneur who previously founded Kurbo Health (acquired by Weight Watchers). Joanna shares her journey from personal struggles with perimenopause symptoms to building solutions that confront the structural barriers in women’s health. Together, we explore why women are left to self-navigate, how venture capital and philanthropy are shaping the field, and what it will take to close the gap between research and real-world care. If you’re a woman seeking answers about your health, or a clinician striving to better serve your patients, this episode will give you a candid look at the truth: the system isn’t designed for women — but with insight and bold action, change is possible. Discussion PointsWhy do midlife women often “fall out” of the healthcare system?How do insurance and reimbursement barriers prevent women-centered care from scaling?Why does it take an average of 17 years for clinical evidence to become standard practice?How should innovators responsibly use emerging research in women’s health?What role did Pivotal Ventures and Wellcome Trust’s $100M commitment play — and why isn’t it enough?How do venture capital investors view women’s health innovation — is it bias, or a need to show scale?What cultural factors lead women to tolerate suffering instead of pushing for better care?Where does Joanna Strober see hope for the future of women’s health innovation? 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** About Joanna StroberJoanna Strober is a visionary healthcare leader and CEO/co-founder of Midi Health,...

    41 min
  6. Why Women Need a Different Approach to Longevity - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    09/02/2025 · BONUS

    Why Women Need a Different Approach to Longevity - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Longevity isn’t just about living longer — it’s about living better. In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs sits down with Roma van der Walt, a sports scientist, women’s health strategist, and CEO of Vitelle, to unpack what longevity really means for women. Roma explains why the biohacking trend often overlooks female physiology, how wearables misinterpret women’s health data, and why prevention must go beyond annual checkups and symptom management. Together, they discuss AI’s role in women’s health, how clinicians can better support patients, and why building an integrated health intelligence infrastructure is the future of personalized care. If you’ve ever wondered: “Am I doing enough to stay healthy as I age?”“Why do wearables and trackers confuse me more than they help?”“How can I trust AI with my health data?” …this episode is for you. Discussion Points (SEO-Driven Questions)What is the difference between lifespan vs. healthspan, and why does it matter for women?How does the current longevity conversation overlook women’s unique physiology?Are wearables and fitness trackers accurate for women, or do they misinterpret the data?What are the four pillars of longevity every woman should focus on?How can AI and health intelligence infrastructure improve women’s healthcare?Why is prevention more important than biohacking for long-term women’s health?How can clinicians better support women navigating fragmented healthcare systems?What supplements and lifestyle factors can impact women’s biomarkers unexpectedly?How can women make sense of biometrics, wearables, and lab results without feeling overwhelmed?What role should personalized healthcare play in improving women’s outcomes? 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** About Roma van der Walt Roma van der Walt is pioneering a new era of women's health. As a sports scientist and the founder of Vitelle, she's working on turning complex biological data into actionable insights for female longevity and performance. Her work sits at the intersection of sports science and the power of system design to address that the field of female health has been

    59 min
  7. Banned for Talking About THIS? | Saundra Pelletier on #SayVaginaMonth - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    08/19/2025 · BONUS

    Banned for Talking About THIS? | Saundra Pelletier on #SayVaginaMonth - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    Episode OverviewTikTok banned my anatomy quiz. The reason? I showed an anatomically correct clitoris model and asked people to guess what it was. No explicit words. No graphic content. Just science. This is exactly why Saundra Pelletier, CEO of Evofem Biosciences, launched #SayVaginaMonth —a movement to fight censorship, challenge stigma, and normalize medically accurate conversations about women’s bodies. What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy female anatomy gets censored while male terms don’tHow stigma in language leads to silence in the exam roomWhy even doctors avoid sexual health—and how to change thatWhy naming body parts correctly is critical for safety, consent & careWhat you can do to join #SayVaginaMonth and push back against bans Why This MattersIf we can’t say vagina or clitoris without fear of being banned, how can we expect healthcare, policy, or research to serve women properly? Words shape awareness. Awareness shapes care. Silence keeps us in the shadows. Resources & LinksConnect with Saundra Pelletier on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.** **May contain affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

    30 min
  8. Why Are Women Still Not Told Their Options for Fibroids? - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    07/29/2025 · BONUS

    Why Are Women Still Not Told Their Options for Fibroids? - Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

    It's Fibroid Awareness Month and this is an important topic to have front and center in your listening feed! Originally Published April 2025 Uterine Fibroids: What You’re Not Being Told About Your Treatment OptionsUterine fibroids affect up to 80% of women by age 50, yet most are not given the full range of treatment options. In this episode, I speak with leading fibroid experts—including minimally invasive surgeons, interventional radiologists, and advocates—to unpack the medical, financial, and structural reasons why hysterectomy is so often pushed as the default solution. Whether you’re trying to preserve fertility, manage chronic pain, or simply want to know what questions to ask at your next appointment, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 What We Cover in This EpisodeWhat uterine fibroids are and who they affect mostThe different types of fibroid treatment (UFE, myomectomy, hormonal therapy, hysterectomy)Why UFE is still underutilized despite being a first-line treatmentHow reimbursement structures impact the care women receiveHow to prepare for your appointment and advocate for yourselfWhat a true multidisciplinary care model looks likeThe connection between fibroid care and larger women’s health equity issues 💬 Expert Guests FeaturedDr. Jessica Opoku-Anane – Minimally Invasive GYN Surgeon, ColumbiaDr. Marc Schiffman – Co-Executive Director, Weill Cornell Medicine Fibroid CenterTanika Gray Valbrun – Founder, The White Dress Project and fibroid awareness advocate 🧠 Key TakeawaysAsk about all options before agreeing to surgeryConsider seeing a center that includes interventional radiologists and minimally invasive surgeonsYour experience and symptoms are valid—even if you’ve been told “it’s normal”Tracking your symptoms before appointments helps you get better careInsurance coverage and doctor training gaps often limit what gets recommended Resources: What Your Doctor Might Not be Telling You about Fibroid Treatment: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/uterine-fibroids-treatment-options-beyond-hysterectomyHysterectomy Unveiled: What your Doctors Don't Always Tell You: https://fempowerhealth.beehiiv.com/p/hysterectomy-informed-consent-womens-health 🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action: 1. Help others discover Fempower Health: Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices. 2. Stay connected: Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, YouTube for real-time updates, expert insights, and relatable conversations. Or join our newsletter to get curated women's health content—on your terms, in your inbox. **Top 50 Health Podcast of 2024** **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but

    14 min

Ratings & Reviews

About

Welcome to Fempower Health—where empowering women through every stage of life isn't just our mission; it's our passion. Fempower Health is a beacon for women navigating the complex world of healthcare, providing a supportive platform where your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed with the compassion and understanding you deserve. Our podcast, a central hub for empowering information, is dedicated to women who find themselves on an exhausting quest for answers to their health questions and perhaps experience medical gaslighting. Fempower Health is here to light the way forward for those struggling with chronic pelvic pain. Our content is meticulously designed with your needs in mind, focusing on essential women's health topics such as female reproductive health, managing menopause symptoms, autoimmune diseases, female cancers, endometriosis, and the journey of trying to conceive. We delve into often taboo topics like menstrual health, the complexities of perimenopause and menopause, and the critical balance of the gut and vaginal microbiome. Recognizing the holistic nature of health, we also cover women's mental health, pain management, pelvic health, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy and motherhood, thyroid disease, and female sexual health. At Fempower Health, you'll gain access to world-renowned healthcare experts, including doctors, researchers, patient advocates, and women who share your struggles, providing a multifaceted perspective on health issues. We discuss not only the condition itself but also what is known versus unknown, empowering you with strategies to effectively communicate with your healthcare provider and guidance on finding the right specialists for your needs. Beyond the podcast, Fempower Health extends its support through a rich array of women's health resources available on our website. Stay connected and informed through our social media channels and newsletter, where we continue to share health tips for women and the latest developments in women's healthcare. Our founder, Georgie Kovacs, is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the healthcare system, and brings a personal touch to Fempower Health. Having navigated her own health journey and advocated for her family through the intricacies of the healthcare system, she ensures that Fempower Health stands as a trustworthy and diligent advocate for women's health. This dedication is reflected in the rigorous vetting process for all guests, ensuring that you receive reliable, actionable information. Join Fempower Health, the ultimate women's health podcast, as we explore, educate, and empower you to take control of your health journey. Here, we not only discuss what matters but also provide a path forward, breaking the silence on critical health issues and offering a community where you are seen, heard, and valued. 📣 Get the latest women's health news via the weekly newsletter: https://fempower-health-chronic-pelvic-pain.beehiiv.com/subscribe 📲 Stay Connected: Follow Fempower Health for more engaging content, expert interviews, and resources on women's health and wellness on 🌐 Website: https://www.fempower-health.com 🔅 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain 🔅 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain 🔅Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/pelvic_pain_hub 🔅TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/fempowerhealthpelvicpain

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