Yeah, We're Going There with Dr. Natalie

Natalie Padveen
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Self-Improvement

Welcome to Yeah, We're Going There with Dr. Natalie, the podcast that tackles pelvic health topics openly, honestly, and without shame. From menopause, incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse to post-prostate recovery, sexual wellness, and everything in between, Dr. Natalie breaks down the conversations most people avoid and turns them into clear, practical guidance you can actually use. Dr. Natalie Padveen, PT, DPT, PRPC, is a pelvic health specialist, author, and fitness creator who has spent over three decades helping women (and men) take back control of their bodies. She's the founder of Pelacore, a NASM-accredited pelvic core fitness program, and the author of Leak No More. If it involves your pelvic floor, she's not afraid to talk about it. Dr. Natalie combines both solo shows and interviews of other top industry experts, physicians, and authors, who share their knowledge and insights to ensure you get the most comprehensive informative Each episode answers real questions, cuts through misinformation, and empowers women and men to better understand their bodies and their health. Yeah, we're going there, because knowledge drives better health!

  1. Sep 13

    Your Gut, Your Brain & Your Pelvic Floor. The Connection Nobody's Talking About: It's All One System

    In this episode, Dr. Natalie Padveen, DPT, explores why gut health matters far beyond digestion and how it connects to the brain, immune system, hormones, fascia, and pelvic floor function. She explains the gut microbiome, leaky gut, and practical ways to support gut health through diet, stress management, exercise, and sleep. On this episode, Dr. Natalie shows how these systems interact as one interconnected network rather than separate parts. She also breaks down common symptoms, likely triggers, and simple lifestyle changes that can support better gut function and overall health.   Timestamps:   ·       01:20: Digestive tract basics and nutrient absorption ·       01:58: What the gut microbiome is and why it matters ·       02:28: Short-chain fatty acids and whole-body inflammation support ·       03:26: How diet can quickly shift your microbiome ·       04:22: Gut-brain communication and the blood-brain barrier ·       04:52: Serotonin, mood, and the Mediterranean diet ·       05:30: Gut diversity, inflammation, and neurodegenerative disease links ·       06:29: The vagus nerve as the gut-brain highway ·       06:59: Low vagal tone, bloating, and constipation ·       07:57: Ways to support vagal tone naturally ·       08:25: Stress, cortisol, and damage to the gut lining ·       09:27: IBD, anxiety, and two-way gut-mind influence ·       10:21: Sleep, microbiome balance, and appetite hormones ·       11:44: What “leaky gut” means ·       12:36: Gut dysbiosis explained ·       13:57: What can contribute to gut dysbiosis and permeability ·       15:35: Common symptoms associated with dysbiosis ·       16:36: Nutrients that support gut lining repair ·       17:51: Food sources for vitamin A, vitamin D, and polyphenols ·       19:58: Probiotics vs. prebiotics ·       21:22: Synbiotics and probiotic strains often discussed for leaky gut ·       22:18: Stress as a direct pipeline to leaky gut ·       24:15: Exercise as a Goldilocks factor ·       25:03: End of episode segment   Resources: Gut Health Resources: Gut Health | Johns Hopkins Medicine   Find a dietician near you: Dietitian Central - Dietitian Webinars, Nutritionist Webinars, Dietitian Jobs,Nutritionists   Kindra Vulvovaginal Health & Sexual Wellness: Vaginal Health & Sexual Wellness | Kindra. Use coupon code: DRNATALIE and save 20% of your order.   Music, Stone By Stone,  licensed through Soundstripe. Code: 4UYLDGGNDG2Y1NKT

  2. Sep 7

    Beyond the Pelvis: Rethinking Endometriosis

    What it is, why it’s missed, and what’s changing   Dr. Natalie Padveen, DPT, breaks down endometriosis in plain language, from what the condition actually is to why it can take 4 to 11 years to diagnose. She also covers symptoms, risk factors, testing, treatment options, fertility concerns, and the latest research that could change how the disease is identified and treated. This episode is built to help listeners recognize patterns, ask better questions, and understand why endometriosis is more than “bad period pain.”   Timestamps 01:17 - What endometriosis is and why most people misunderstand it 02:24 - Why diagnosis often takes 4 to 11 years 02:55 - Leading theories behind the cause 06:18 - The most common symptoms and what they look like 07:43 - Why stage does not always match pain 08:41 - Risk factors and what they do and do not mean 10:10 - Laparoscopy, biopsy, and the old diagnostic standard 11:36 - ACOG’s 2026 shift toward presumptive diagnosis 12:35 - New non-invasive tests in development 14:02 - There is no cure, only management strategies 14:31 - Pain relief and hormonal therapy options 15:51 - Surgery options: laparoscopy, laparotomy, hysterectomy, and oophorectomy 19:10 - Endometriosis as a whole-body condition, not just a gynecological one 21:32 - Fertility concerns and what the research says 23:19 - Nutrition, supplements, stress, movement, and community support 25:38 - Three myths that cause real harm   Resources: The Endometriosis Association of America:  https://www.endofound.org/   Vulvovaginal Care by Kindra: https://ourkindra.com/ Use coupon code DRNATALIE at checkout to receive 20% OFF your order   Music: Stone by Stone, licensed through Soundstripe. Code: XYMJLSMSAASFUZXH

  3. Aug 30

    Tight-Lipped: Breaking the Silence on Vaginismus

    Vaginismus: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How It’s Treated Dr. Natalie Padveen, DPT explains vaginismus in clear, practical terms and makes the case that this condition is common, misunderstood, and treatable. The episode covers what vaginismus feels like, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment approaches that help break the fear-pain cycle. In this episode, Dr. Natalie shares: What vaginismus is.Why it can show up during sex, tampon use, or pelvic exams.The emotional side of the condition, including anxiety, fear, and anticipatory tension.How common it is in sexual health settings.The difference between primary vaginismus and secondary vaginismus.How perimenopause and menopause can contribute.Why Kegels are not the answer when the pelvic floor is already overactive.How pelvic floor physical therapy, dilators, breath work, biofeedback, and graduated exposure can help.Why treatment often needs both physical and emotional support to break the cycle of fear, tension, and pain.Timestamps 1:30 — Vaginismus introduction and why it’s commonly misunderstood 1:48 — Why diagnosis is often delayed and what listeners will learn 2:24 — Definition of vaginismus and what causes the muscle spasm 2:54 — What it can interfere with: intercourse, tampons, speculum exams 3:22 — What it feels like physically and the pelvic floor dysfunction context 3:52 — “Hitting a brick wall” and the emotional layer of anxiety 4:18 — How common it is and the long diagnosis delay 4:47 — Pain, confusion, and avoidance of healthcare 5:16 — Primary vaginismus explained 5:46 — Contributing factors and the role of upbringing 6:15 — Why the cause is often unclear and still treatable 6:44 — Lamont severity grading system 7:14 — Pasik’s fifth degree and intense nervous system responses 7:44 — Secondary vaginismus and later-onset causes 8:13 — Menopause/perimenopause, estrogen decline, and tissue changes 8:43 — How the body learns to associate penetration with pain 9:12 — How diagnosis works and the need for distress + symptoms 9:43 — Ruling out other causes and the importance of desire for penetration 10:11 — Why Kegels are not the answer 10:39 — Why lengthening and releasing the pelvic floor helps 11:06 — Pelvic floor PT assessment and trigger points 11:26 — Treatment tools: manual therapy, breath work, biofeedback, dilators 11:46 — How dilators help retrain the protective reflex 12:20 — Lubrication myth and the role of arousal 12:49 — Slowing down and graduated exposure therapy 13:19 — Breaking the fear-tension-pain cycle 13:46 — Emerging options like Botox and lidocaine 14:19 — Medication may help in some cases, especially when anxiety is a factor 14:48 — Emotional research and childhood sexual interference 15:12 — History of vaginismus in medicine and why physical + emotional therapy matter   Resources: https://vwell.com. Use coupon code: DRNATALIE to get 15% OFF your next order.   Music: Stone by Stone, licensed through Soundstripe. Code: JE4YTJRLDZWA6XJS

  4. Aug 24

    Life After Hysterectomy: Recovery, Sex, Menopause & the Questions Nobody Asks

    Dr. Natalie continues the hysterectomy conversation by focusing on what recovery actually looks like after surgery. She covers healing timelines, activity restrictions, sex, menopause, cervical cancer screening, emotional recovery, and the warning signs that should prompt a call to your healthcare team. This episode matters because the hardest part of a hysterectomy often starts after the hospital discharge. What you can do, when you can do it, and what symptoms are expected versus concerning can vary a lot based on the type of surgery and what was removed. Key topics Common early recovery symptoms.When people may return to work, noting that timing depends on the procedure and job demands.Driving safety after surgery.Sex after hysterectomy.The big menopause myth, explaining that hysterectomy does not automatically cause menopause unless both ovaries are removed.When is cervical cancer screening still needed after hysterectomy.Gynecologic care may still be needed after hysterectomy.The major urgent warning signs after surgery. Timestamps 1:22–2:23: Why recovery timelines vary and what to expect after surgery2:23–3:31: Early recovery symptoms and why gentle walking matters3:31–4:31: Bleeding, discharge, and warning signs4:31–5:29: Returning to work, driving, and exercise5:29–6:58: Sex after hysterectomy and sexual function changes7:56–9:48: Menopause, surgical menopause, and hormone therapy11:47–14:05: Pap tests, screening, and ongoing gynecologic care15:04–16:19: Pregnancy, emotional recovery, and final warning signs  Resources: Kindra Vulvovaginal Products https://www.ourkindra.com. Use discount Code: DRNATALIE to receive 20% off your order. Music: Stone by Stone licensed through Soundstripe. Code: LHLQDLR1QKAB6OMG

  5. Aug 16

    Hysterectomy: What It Is, Why You Might Need One & What Actually Happens

    This episode breaks down hysterectomy in plain English, explaining what the surgery removes, when it’s used, and how different surgical approaches affect recovery and hormone changes. Dr. Natalie Padveen, DPT, walks through the most common terminology so listeners can better understand what they’re being told and ask more specific questions before surgery. Key topics What a hysterectomy is and why it permanently ends the ability to get pregnantRemoving the uterus doesn't automatically mean removing the ovariesCommon reasons for hysterectomy: fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapse, abnormal uterine bleeding, certain gynecological cancersThe main types: total, supracervical/subtotal, and radical hysterectomyTerminology around tube and ovary removal: salpingectomy, oophorectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomyHow removing both ovaries before natural menopause can trigger surgical menopauseOpportunistic salpingectomy as a risk-reduction strategySurgical approaches compared: vaginal, abdominal, laparoscopic, robotic-assistedCommon surgical risks (bleeding, infection, blood clots, anesthesia complications, wound issues, organ injury)Practical questions to ask a surgeon beforehand: alternatives, what's being removed, recovery expectations, warning signs after surgeryTimestamps 00:00 - Why this episode is covering hysterectomy now 00:33 - What a hysterectomy is and what it removes 01:31 - The organs involved and why not all are removed together 02:00 - Common medical reasons for hysterectomy 02:54 - Fibroids, endometriosis, prolapse, and abnormal bleeding explained 04:19 - Total, supracervical, and radical hysterectomy 05:17 - Why the ovaries and tubes may or may not be removed 05:45 - Salpingectomy, oophorectomy, and salpingo-oophorectomy explained 06:15 - Surgical menopause and why ovarian hormones matter 06:45 - Opportunistic salpingectomy and ovarian cancer risk reduction 08:12 - Vaginal, abdominal, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches 09:12 - How surgeons choose the best surgical approach 09:39 - Recovery advantages of minimally invasive surgery 10:09 - Common hysterectomy risks and complications 10:39 - Questions to ask before surgery 11:37 - The biggest takeaway about understanding your exact procedure 12:37 - What the next episode will cover after surgery 13:07 - General medical disclaimer and individualized care reminder   Music: Stone by Stone licensed through Soundstripe. Code: LHLQDLR1QKAB6OMG

  6. Aug 10

    Men's Sexual Health Through the Lifespan with Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

    Men's Sexual Health with Dr. Joshua Gonzalez This episode explores men's sexual health from the teens and twenties through older age. What's common, what's not normal to ignore, and when to seek help. Dr. Joshua Gonzalez, a urologist fellowship-trained in sexual medicine, explains how erections, libido, hormones, pelvic floor issues, medications, and cardiovascular health intersect. The conversation also covers misconceptions shaped by pornography and social media, plus practical steps men can take to protect sexual function over time. Key topics Men's sexual health covers more than erections and testosterone . It includes libido, orgasm, ejaculation, pain, pelvic pain, penile curvature, and medication side effects.Erectile dysfunction and low testosterone can occur in men in their 20s and 30s. Age alone should never dismiss symptoms.Causes in younger men can include low testosterone, vascular problems, medication effects, and pelvic floor tension or pain.Stress, poor sleep, alcohol, smoking, and vaping matter most in the 30s and 40s, when career and family pressures rise.Sexual dysfunction after 50 is common but not inevitable; common isn't the same as normal.Cardiovascular and sexual health are closely linked. ED can be an early warning sign of vascular disease.Testosterone therapy myths (heart attack, stroke, prostate cancer) are addressed, distinguishing monitored replacement from steroid abuse.Key lifestyle priorities: sleep, heart-healthy diet, resistance training plus cardio, reduced alcohol and nicotine. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction and background (01:57) What men's sexual health covers (03:16) Young men's biggest misconceptions (05:08) Physiologic causes in younger men (06:56) Porn, social media, and expectations (08:09) Habits for long-term sexual health (10:33) Why men need to self-advocate (11:01) Stress, sleep, and function in 30s–40s (13:54) When testosterone tends to decline (15:34) Is testosterone the answer to fatigue? (17:10) When ED is no longer "just stress" (19:15) SSRI side effects on sexual function (21:14) Treating antidepressant-related dysfunction (22:49) Common vs. "normal" changes after 50 (25:44) Cardiovascular and sexual health links (28:17) Workup: Doppler testing, pelvic floor PT (29:25) Testosterone myths on cancer and heart risk (31:16) Therapeutic testosterone vs. steroid abuse (32:30) Who benefits from testosterone therapy (34:04) Lifestyle changes that help most (36:22) Peptides, GLP-1s, and Vyleesi (41:05) Supplements: what helps, what's unproven (42:39) Warning signs to never ignore (44:11) Why annual visits should screen sexual health (46:22) No cutoff date for sexual health (47:49) Where to find reliable information Links & Resources: Joshua Gonzalez MD ISSWSH SMSNA Connect: Instagram/TikTok @joshuagonzalezmd Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: MCQ5MUER5LUTLRQ0

  7. Aug 2

    "The Gap Nobody Talks About”

    Diastasis rectus abdominis or DRA ExplainedIn this episode, I explain everything you need to know about diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA), a common condition that affects many people beyond postpartum women. Learn how to identify, understand, and address this issue to improve core stability, prevent future complications, and promote proper healing. Key topicsThe anatomy of the linea alba and how it functions as a connective zipperHow diastasis recti develops in both women and men under sustained abdominal pressureThe difference between diastasis and hernias, and potential long-term risksHormonal impacts postpartum that influence core healing, including estrogen and relaxinSafe exercises to engage deep core muscles and avoid worsen the separationSelf-check techniques to identify diastasis at homeWhen to seek professional help, including pelvic health physical therapyThe importance of patience and avoiding common mistakes like crunches during postpartum recoveryHow untreated diastasis can lead to back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and herniasSurgical options as a last resort, not a first step in postpartum recoveryTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to diastasis recti and who it affects 00:31 - Recognizing the visual signs post-pregnancy or even without pregnancy 01:01 - Understanding the anatomy: the linea alba as a zipper 01:37 - How diastasis happens when this zipper stretches and muscles pull apart 02:05 - Visible signs and what they indicate about core load transfer 02:34 - Long-term effects, including hernias and structural changes 03:04 - The role of pregnancy, hormonal stretch, and mechanical stress 03:33 - Men and non-postpartum individuals at risk due to heavy lifting and genetics 04:30 - Who gets diastasis: conditions that cause sustained outward abdominal pressure 05:00 - How diastasis affects core function and contributes to low back and pelvic issues 05:27 - Components of the core system, including transverse abdominus and pelvic floor 06:26 - How to self-assess for diastasis at home 06:55 - Interpreting your self-check results 07:24 - The postpartum hormonal window and why patience is key 07:53 - Hormonal changes postpartum that delay healing 08:58 - The effects of nursing and hormonal suppression on tissue recovery 09:28 - When core healing typically begins postpartum and the importance of patience 10:25 - What NOT to do: avoid crunches and high-pressure movements 10:54 - Engaging the deep core muscles for safe strengthening 11:22 - How to incorporate arm and leg movements into core training 11:36 - Examples of safe exercises: toe taps, heel slides, bridges/modifications 12:03 - Proper breathing and engaging the core during exercises 12:31 - Daily life habits to support recovery and prevent worsening diastasis 14:26 - Surgical options for diastasis repair and when they are appropriate 14:57 - Risks of ignoring diastasis long-term, including chronic pain and hernias 15:25 - Signs that indicate a need for professional evaluation 16:20 - Final thoughts on understanding and managing diastasis effectively Connect with Dr. Natalie Padveen:LinkedInInstagram

  8. Jul 26

    The Menopause Symptom Nobody Told You About. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).

    Are you experiencing discomfort, urinary issues, or emotional distress related to menopause? In this episode, I explain GSM. What it is, why it happens, and the treatment options available to improve your quality of life. Key topics:What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) and its impact on vaginal, vulvar, and urinary healthHow estrogen decline affects tissue health and symptomsDifferences between natural menopause, perimenopause, and surgical menopausePrevalence and risk factors, including age, surgeries, cancer treatments, smoking, and lack of childbirthCommon symptoms: vaginal dryness, burning, urinary issues, and emotional effectsThe serious risks of untreated GSM, especially recurrent UTIs and sepsisTreatment options: non-hormonal, hormonal treatments including vaginal estrogen, DHEA, and their safety profilesImportance of ongoing management and timing for treatment effectivenessQuestions to ask your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment planTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to GSM and why it’s often overlooked 00:31 - The role of estrogen in maintaining tissue health 01:29 - Effects of estrogen decline during menopause and perimenopause 02:09 - Differences between natural menopause and surgical menopause 02:47 - Prevalence of GSM and affected symptoms 03:47 - Risk factors increasing susceptibility and severity 04:46 - How GSM affects emotional well-being and intimacy 06:42 - Connection between GSM, recurrent UTIs, and serious infections 07:40 - Treatment options: non-hormonal and hormonal therapies 08:39 - Benefits and safety of vaginal estrogen and DHEA 09:36 - Long-term use and management tips 10:44 - Essential questions to discuss with your healthcare provider 11:35 - Importance of patience and consistency in treatment 12:33 - Final encouragement and how to advocate for your health Resources & Links:Vaginal Estrogen Prescription is Associated with Reduced Risk of Serious Adverse Outcomes in Women of All Age Groups with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection: An Epic Cosmos Database Analysis - ScienceDirect   Vaginal DHEA linked with decreased UTI prevalence in patients with genitourinary syndrome of menopause | Urology Times Connect with Dr. Natalie Padveen:Instagramhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliepadveen/

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About

Welcome to Yeah, We're Going There with Dr. Natalie, the podcast that tackles pelvic health topics openly, honestly, and without shame. From menopause, incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse to post-prostate recovery, sexual wellness, and everything in between, Dr. Natalie breaks down the conversations most people avoid and turns them into clear, practical guidance you can actually use. Dr. Natalie Padveen, PT, DPT, PRPC, is a pelvic health specialist, author, and fitness creator who has spent over three decades helping women (and men) take back control of their bodies. She's the founder of Pelacore, a NASM-accredited pelvic core fitness program, and the author of Leak No More. If it involves your pelvic floor, she's not afraid to talk about it. Dr. Natalie combines both solo shows and interviews of other top industry experts, physicians, and authors, who share their knowledge and insights to ensure you get the most comprehensive informative Each episode answers real questions, cuts through misinformation, and empowers women and men to better understand their bodies and their health. Yeah, we're going there, because knowledge drives better health!

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