Her Health Hour

Balikis Abubakar and Hikmat Showole

Her Health Hour is your go-to podcast for open, honest, and empowering conversations about women’s health. From reproductive and sexual health to mental wellness and everything in between, we dive deep into the topics that too often go undiscussed. Whether you’re curious, seeking advice, or just want to listen, we’re here to break the silence and create a safe space for women to share real experiences , learn, and grow. Tune in every fortnight to hear expert insights, personal stories, and candid discussions. It’s time to start the conversation. Welcome to Her Health Hour!

  1. FEB 24

    Hormones 101: Breaking down the basics every woman should know.

    *Keywords* hormonal health, women's health, estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, insulin, wellness guide, hormonal imbalance, lifestyle choices, stress management *Summary* In this episode, Hikmat and Balikis delve into the intricate world of hormonal health, discussing the critical hormones that affect women's well-being, including estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and insulin. They explore how these hormones influence various aspects of health, from mood and energy levels to reproductive health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs of hormonal imbalance and offers practical lifestyle changes to promote hormonal balance, such as stress management, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. The hosts also highlight the impact of environmental factors on hormonal health and encourage listeners to be proactive in their wellness journey by utilizing their newly launched wellness guide. *Takeaways* - Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate bodily functions. - Estrogen and progesterone are crucial for women's reproductive health. - Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, affects overall health. - Insulin plays a significant role in energy management and metabolism. - Stress is a major disruptor of hormonal balance. - Adequate sleep is essential for hormonal health. - Lifestyle choices directly impact hormone levels. - Environmental factors can disrupt hormonal balance. - Regular check-ups can help identify hormonal imbalances. - Gentle wellness practices are key to maintaining health.

    50 min
  2. 11/02/2025

    The Journey to Birth: What to Expect in Your Final Trimesters

    In this episode of Her Health Hour, hosts Hikmat and Balikis discuss the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, focusing on symptoms, nutrition, and the importance of advocating for oneself. They cover common experiences like the 'honeymoon phase' of the second trimester, managing symptoms, and preparing for delivery. The episode emphasizes the significance of prenatal appointments and being aware of conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. The hosts also share tips for comfort during pregnancy and discuss the emotional and physical preparations for delivery. Keywords pregnancy, second trimester, third trimester, delivery, prenatal care, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, pregnancy symptoms, pregnancy nutrition, advocating for women Takeaways The second trimester is often called the 'honeymoon phase' due to increased energy and reduced nausea.It's crucial to maintain a healthy diet and not 'eat for two' during pregnancy.Gestational diabetes and preeclampsia are serious conditions that require regular monitoring.Pregnancy pillows can greatly enhance comfort during the second and third trimesters.Advocating for oneself is vital, especially for women of color who face higher risks during childbirth.Regular prenatal appointments are essential for monitoring the health of both mother and baby.Exercise, even light walking, is beneficial during pregnancy to maintain health and balance weight gain.The third trimester can bring heightened symptoms like acid reflux and frequent urination.Having a birth plan and a supportive birth partner can make the delivery process smoother.Emotional preparation, including meditation and spiritual practices, can help manage anxiety around delivery.

    42 min
  3. 04/11/2025

    Fibroids: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

    keywords: fibroids, women's health, fertility, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, pregnancy, black women, health awareness, medical advice, fibroids, pregnancy, miscarriage, treatment options, emotional health, intimacy, women's health, self-advocacy, support groups, fertility Summary: In this episode of Health Hour, host Hikmat and co-host Balikis engage with Dr. Mutmainah, a medical expert, to discuss the significant yet often overlooked issue of fibroids, particularly among women of African descent. The conversation covers the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for fibroids, as well as their impact on fertility and pregnancy. Dr. Mutmainah emphasizes the importance of understanding fibroids, their commonality, and the fact that many women live with them asymptomatically. The episode aims to raise awareness and provide valuable insights into managing fibroids effectively. This conversation delves into the complexities of fibroids, particularly their impact on pregnancy, treatment options, and emotional health. Dr. Mutmainah discusses the prevalence of fibroids, the importance of self-advocacy, and the need for accurate information. The discussion also covers the risks associated with pregnancy and fibroids, the implications of multiple pregnancies, and the emotional support necessary for women dealing with this condition. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's body and the available treatment options, as well as the need for open dialogue about women's health issues. Takeaways: Fibroids are common in women, especially black women.Symptoms of fibroids include heavy and painful periods.Asymptomatic fibroids usually do not require treatment.Diagnosis involves history taking and imaging like ultrasound.Treatment options vary based on symptoms and patient needs.Sub-mucosal fibroids have the greatest impact on fertility.Medications can help manage symptoms of fibroids.Minimally invasive procedures are available for treatment.Surgery is an option for symptomatic fibroids.Most fibroids are non-cancerous and do not pose serious risks. Most people have fibroids and live without symptoms.Self-advocacy is crucial in managing health.Pain is a common symptom of fibroids during pregnancy.Fibroids can complicate labor and delivery.Multiple pregnancies increase risks when fibroids are present.Surgical risks during cesarean delivery are heightened with fibroids.Preconception planning is important for women with fibroids.Emotional support and accurate information are vital.Intimacy can be affected by fibroids, requiring communication.Conversations about women's health should be normalized.

    52 min

About

Her Health Hour is your go-to podcast for open, honest, and empowering conversations about women’s health. From reproductive and sexual health to mental wellness and everything in between, we dive deep into the topics that too often go undiscussed. Whether you’re curious, seeking advice, or just want to listen, we’re here to break the silence and create a safe space for women to share real experiences , learn, and grow. Tune in every fortnight to hear expert insights, personal stories, and candid discussions. It’s time to start the conversation. Welcome to Her Health Hour!