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. 5d ago

    Know Your Power-Self Advocacy in Pregnancy & Childbirth

    Empowering Women Through Maternal Health: A Conversation with Dr. Idara Umoette In this powerful episode of A Health Hour, we sit down with Dr. Idara Umoette medical doctor and founder of Beth Safe Nigeria, to explore the urgent realities of maternal health, particularly for Black women and women of colour. Together, we unpack the alarming disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity, the importance of self-advocacy during pregnancy and childbirth, and why access to accurate information can save lives. Dr. Idara shares her personal journey into maternal health advocacy, discussing the systemic challenges within healthcare, the impact of racial and socioeconomic inequalities, and the need for empathy, accountability, and equitable maternity care. We also explore key topics including antenatal care, pregnancy complications, informed consent, fibroids, malaria in pregnancy, postpartum recovery, pregnancy loss, and the critical role of support systems in improving maternal outcomes. The conversation highlights innovative solutions such as Beth Safe Nigeria and digital health tools designed to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions throughout pregnancy and beyond. Whether you’re an expectant parent, healthcare professional, advocate, or simply passionate about women’s health, this episode offers practical advice, expert insights, and an important call to action to help create safer, more equitable maternal healthcare for all. Topics covered: • Maternal health and maternal mortality • Self-advocacy in pregnancy and childbirth • Black maternal health disparities • Antenatal and postpartum care • Pregnancy complications, fibroids, malaria and PCV • Informed consent and women’s rights • Health equity and systemic change • Technology and innovation in maternal care Join us as we discuss how informed choices, compassionate care, and collective advocacy can transform maternal health outcomes for women everywhere.

    Know Your Power-Self Advocacy in Pregnancy & Childbirth
  2. 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.

  3. 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.

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!