You Are Not Broken

Kelly Casperson, MD
You Are Not Broken

Empowering women (and the partners who love them) to live their best mid lives. Combining the power of mind-work, body-science and relationships, I joyously smash the societal barriers that are keeping us from living our best intimate lives. Whether you are young or past menopause, single or in a long-term relationship, it is never too late or too early to realize YOU ARE NOT BROKEN. With humor, candor and ease, I break down the stories that we have been told about being sexual beings, to help us play, and normalize our intimacy and health. Nothing in this podcast is personal medical advice, of course.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    299. Aging Under A Microscope

    In this episode, Dr. Katie Kennedy, a pathologist, discusses the intersection of aging, health, and the effects of alcohol on the body. The conversation explores how alcohol impacts various organs, particularly the liver and brain, and its connection to inflammation and cancer. The role of estrogen in women's health and the implications of aging on inflammation are also examined, providing insights into how these factors affect quality of life. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Katie Kennedy discuss various aspects of women's health, particularly focusing on postmenopausal issues such as bladder health, the importance of vaginal estrogen, and the role of pathology in understanding these conditions. They delve into the significance of bone health and osteoporosis, emphasizing the need for preventative measures against hip fractures and frailty. The discussion also highlights the connection between breathing, oral health, and overall well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health that considers the entire body. Takeaways Pathology is the study of diseases and their effects on tissues. Alcohol has a significant impact on liver health, leading to conditions like fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease can be reversed if caught early and with proper support. Alcohol is classified as a carcinogen, contributing to various cancers. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to memory loss and increase the risk of dementia. The loss of estrogen during aging creates a synergistic effect with alcohol on brain health. Inflammation is a common response in aging and is linked to estrogen loss. Women metabolize alcohol differently than men, making them more susceptible to its effects. Inflammation can be observed in various tissues, not just localized areas. Understanding the impact of alcohol on health is crucial for making informed choices. Postmenopausal women often suffer from bladder issues that are under-discussed. Vaginal estrogen should be a standard part of women's health care. Thin vaginal mucosa can lead to increased infections and complications. Preventative measures for osteoporosis should start early in life. Hip fractures are a significant health risk for older women. Mouth breathing can lead to various health issues, including sleep apnea. Strengthening the tongue is crucial for preventing aspiration and improving swallowing. Holistic health considers the entire body and its interconnected systems. Education and awareness are key to improving women's health outcomes. Regular health evaluations should include assessments of bone and muscle strength. Dr. Kennedy's Website Dr. Kennedy's IG Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts February 2025. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    51 min
  2. 5 JAN

    298. Hair Hair Hair Hair

    Midlife hair loss! way more common than you think!! In this conversation, Dr. Omer Ibrahim discusses the complexities of hair loss, particularly in women, and the importance of understanding its causes and treatments. He emphasizes the significance of hair in women's identity and the emotional impact of hair loss. The discussion covers various aspects, including preventative measures, nutrition, the role of supplements, innovative treatments like PRP and exosomes, and the need for more research on the effects of hormones on hair health. The conversation also touches on the terminology used in the field and the stigma surrounding female hair loss. They explore the significance of understanding androgenetic alopecia, the impact of testosterone, and the importance of monitoring hormone levels. The discussion also covers the effectiveness of minoxidil and the use of DHT blockers like spironolactone and finasteride. They highlight the frequent misdiagnosis of hair loss conditions in women and emphasize the need for specialized dermatological care. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min
  3. 29/12/2024

    297. HNY and 5 years of the YANB Podcast!

    Celebrating Five Years of the 'You Are Not Broken' Podcast Happy New Year! This week, as we step into 2024, I’m reflecting on the incredible journey of the podcast and the amazing guests who’ve joined me along the way. Five years ago, on January 1, 2020, I launched the very first episode of You Are Not Broken. At the time, Instagram wasn’t even part of the equation for me and now I just hit 200K, I hadn’t published a book, hadn’t done a TEDX talk and the term "menopause expert" wasn’t something that I was. Looking back, I can confidently say: that first episode was pretty good! Thank you to all of the sponsors, prescribers, everyone who supports ISSWSH and treats women for sexual health issues. I just did a course about sexual health and prescribing testosterone with Dr. Heather Hirsch’s academy. In honor of this milestone, let’s revisit some of the highlights and wisdom shared by the brilliant minds who’ve graced the podcast. 1.My very first episode - short, sweet and mission driven, this is how it all started. 2. Dr. Mary Claire Haver – April 2023 episode 208 Long before “the new menopause” and the buzz around medications like Ozempic, Dr. Haver was here dropping timeless advice. 3. Dr. Sari Van Anders and the Science of Desire – march 2022 – Epiosde 147 Dr. Van Anders insights reshaped how we think about desire. Her research challenged the heteronormative theory of low desire in women partnered with men, emphasizing that desire is far more complex than we often assume. She explained how sexual thoughts and behaviors can influence our hormones, showing that thinking sexy thoughts can actually increase testosterone levels. This idea—that our minds and bodies are deeply connected—has inspired so many listeners to explore what turns them on and why. 4. Dr. Avrum Bluming and the Hormone Window – Epiosde 222 July 2023 Dr. Bluming joined me to discuss the "10-year window" and the incredible "window of opportunity" when it comes to hormone therapy. We now know that the main risk associated with oral estrogen is clotting in veins, which is why transdermal (TD) estrogen is the preferred option. He reminded us of the critical role hormones play in bone health, as hip fractures kill as many people each year as breast cancer. 5. The Lancet Rebuttal: Are We Overtreating Menopause? – April 2024, #259 This powerful panel discussion featured Dr. Lauren Streicher, Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan, Dr. Heather Quaile, Dr. Heidi Flagg, and Dr. Mary Claire Haver. Together, we explored whether menopause is being overtreated in 2024. Spoiler: the answer is no. 6. Dr. Marty Klein and the Complexities of Fantasy episode 169 – July 2022 Dr. Klein’s book, His Porn, Her Pain, sparked a fascinating conversation about the nature of fantasy. His insights challenged us to think deeply about what fantasy means for us as individuals and how it shapes our relationships. As we celebrate five years, I want to thank everyone who listens, shares, and prescribes for women. Your support fuels this mission to empower and educate. Here’s to another year of breaking myths, sharing stories, and embracing the science of living our best lives. Happy New Year, Dr. Kelly Casperson Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    54 min
  4. 22/12/2024

    296. Staying Curious - with Carol Tavris, PhD

    In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson interviews Dr. Carol Tavris, a renowned social psychologist and feminist. They discuss the evolving definition of feminism, the impact of cognitive dissonance on women's health, and the collaboration between Dr. Tavris and Dr. Avrum Blooming on hormone therapy. The conversation highlights the importance of staying curious, the role of fear in controlling women, and the challenges women face in navigating medical information. Dr. Tavris emphasizes the need for women to advocate for their health and to question outdated medical warnings. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Carol Tavris discuss the complexities surrounding hormone therapy, particularly estrogen, and the societal and medical biases that influence women's health. They explore the implications of labeling estrogen as hazardous, the challenges of mobilizing women for advocacy, and the cognitive biases that affect perceptions of hormone therapy. The discussion emphasizes the need for informed activism, understanding causation versus correlation, and the evolution of medical beliefs over time. Dr. Tavris offers insights on how to engage effectively with both the medical community and the public to foster change in women's health policies. Takeaways Feminism is about equality and justice for all genders. Cognitive dissonance can hinder our ability to accept new information. Women have historically been misrepresented in medical research. Collaboration between psychology and medicine can improve women's health. Fear is a powerful tool used to control women's choices. Women must navigate a complex landscape of medical information. The medical community often overlooks women's health needs. Outdated medical warnings can create unnecessary fear. Women should advocate for their health and question misinformation. Understanding cognitive dissonance can help in making informed decisions. Estrogen patches are being labeled as hazardous without proper justification. Women need to mobilize and organize for advocacy efforts. Apathy among women in advocacy is a significant barrier to change. Cognitive biases can distort perceptions of hormone therapy. Correlation does not imply causation, especially in health matters. Personal anecdotes can shape beliefs about medical treatments. The evolution of medical beliefs often requires a critical mass of evidence. Activism should focus on engaging those who are open to change. Mistakes in medicine are common, and learning from them is essential. Holding beliefs lightly allows for adaptation to new evidence. Dr. Tavris' Books: Estrogen Matters Mistakes Were Made (but not by me) Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min
  5. 15/12/2024

    295. Lubrication, Libido, and Letting Go: Unlocking Intimacy After Menopause - A Q&A

    In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson addresses a series of questions related to intimacy, sexual health, and relationships in midlife and menopause. She emphasizes the importance of sexual education, communication, and understanding one's body to enhance intimacy and sexual satisfaction. The conversation covers various topics including sexual health tips, overcoming shame, the role of hormones, and the significance of pleasure in sexual experiences. Dr. Casperson also highlights the need for professional help when dealing with sexual dysfunction and encourages listeners to prioritize their sexual health and well-being. Takeaways Midlife sexual health care tips include cardiovascular fitness and lubrication. Understanding your body and prioritizing intimacy can reignite sexual drive. Sex education and communication skills are crucial for healthy relationships. Overcoming ingrained beliefs about sexuality is essential for personal growth. Testosterone can be beneficial for libido but is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Communication about sexual preferences is key to a fulfilling relationship. Painful sex can often be addressed with hormonal treatments and therapy. There are many ways to experience orgasm, and it's not a competition. Post-menopause, pleasure should be the primary focus of sexual experiences. Resources for sexual education and therapy are available and valuable. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min
  6. 08/12/2024

    294. Live Q&A: Perimenopause, Bladder leakage, Hormones and More

    In this conversation, Kelly Casperson discusses the complexities of perimenopause and its associated symptoms, particularly focusing on incontinence and the role of hormone therapy. She emphasizes the importance of vaginal estrogen as a treatment option, debunks common myths surrounding hormone therapy, and highlights the need for early intervention to prevent long-term health issues. The discussion also covers alternative treatments, the connection between hormones and pelvic floor health, and the risks and benefits of hormone therapy, ultimately advocating for patient empowerment and informed decision-making in women's health. Takeaways Vaginal estrogen is a safe and effective treatment for urinary issues during perimenopause. Hormones play a crucial role in preventing diseases associated with aging. Many women experience urinary symptoms during perimenopause, which can be alleviated with proper hormone therapy. There is a misconception that hormone therapy is only for post-menopausal women; it can be beneficial during perimenopause as well. Vaginal estrogen can significantly reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Patients should advocate for their health and seek second opinions if necessary. Hormone therapy can improve quality of life and reduce symptoms of menopause. Education about hormone therapy is essential for both patients and healthcare providers. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a valuable resource for managing incontinence. The medical community needs to shift towards preventative care rather than reactive treatment. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
  7. 01/12/2024

    293. T is a Brain Hormone - Treating the Couple for Low T and Sexual Health

    293. T is a Brain Hormone - Treating the Couple for Low T and Sexual Health In this engaging conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson explore various aspects of sexual health, focusing on the importance of language, the journey into understanding female sexual health, and the complexities of erectile dysfunction and libido in men. They emphasize the need to treat couples as a sexual unit and discuss the role of testosterone in overall health. In this conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson delve into the complexities of testosterone therapy, its historical context, and the stigma surrounding hormone replacement. They discuss the importance of hormones in aging and mental health, the need for responsible hormone management, and the innovations in sexual health products. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of rebranding hormones and addressing misconceptions to improve patient care and access. In this conversation, Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and Dr. Kelly Casperson delve into various aspects of sexual health, focusing on male sexual response, the effects of medications on sexual function, and innovative procedures for penile enhancement. They discuss the psychological factors influencing men's desire for enhancement, the importance of understanding the male sexual response, and the implications of medications like statins and finasteride on libido and testosterone levels. Takeaways Understanding female anatomy is crucial for effective treatment. Pain during sex is a common issue that needs addressing. Sex should not be limited to penetration; intimacy can take many forms. Couples should be treated as a unit in sexual health discussions. Erectile dysfunction can exist independently of libido. Do GLP1s affect desire or other aspects of intimacy? Testosterone plays a significant role in both male and female sexual health. Screening for low testosterone should be standard practice? Hormones should be treated similarly to other medications. Historical regulations on testosterone are outdated and need reform. The stigma around testosterone affects both men and women. Hormones play a crucial role in aging and cognitive function. Deregulation of testosterone could enhance patient access. Are statins affecting testosterone or libido? Penile Fillers Supplements to increase ejaculation volume https://testosteroneproject.com/ https://joshuagonzalezmd.com/ https://www.shoppopstar.com/ For more education about low T and getting started on possible therapy, visit Kyzatrex Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 11m
  8. 24/11/2024

    292. Dr. Roger Lobo

    Dr. Roger Lobo, a renowned expert in women's health, discusses the misconceptions and controversies surrounding female hormones. He highlights the lack of knowledge and understanding in areas such as PCOS, menopause, and hormone therapy. Dr. Lobo also delves into the impact of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study on hormone therapy and the importance of individualized treatment. He emphasizes the need for informed consent and personalized approaches to hormone therapy based on factors such as age, risk assessment, and transdermal delivery. The conversation also touches on the role of progesterone in protecting the uterine lining and the potential risks of bioidentical hormones. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Roger Lobo discuss the use of hormone therapy for primary prevention in women. They address the controversy surrounding hormone therapy and the lack of consensus among healthcare providers. Dr. Lobo emphasizes the importance of education and the need for providers to be knowledgeable about hormone therapy. They also discuss the role of estrogen in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Dr. Lobo mentions advancements in the field, including the use of estetrol and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Takeaways Misdiagnosis and lack of understanding are common in areas such as PCOS and menopause. The WHI study led to a generation of women being undertreated due to misconceptions about hormone therapy. Hormone therapy should be individualized based on factors such as age, risk assessment, and transdermal delivery. Progesterone is important for protecting the uterine lining in hormone therapy. Bioidentical hormones may still carry risks and should be monitored. There is controversy and lack of consensus among healthcare providers regarding the use of hormone therapy for primary prevention in women. Education is crucial to ensure that healthcare providers are knowledgeable about hormone therapy and can provide accurate information to patients. Estrogen has a role in preventing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. Advancements in the field include the use of estetrol and selective estrogen receptor modulators. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 30% off your first purchase of any product, automatically applied at checkout. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Starts January 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    51 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Empowering women (and the partners who love them) to live their best mid lives. Combining the power of mind-work, body-science and relationships, I joyously smash the societal barriers that are keeping us from living our best intimate lives. Whether you are young or past menopause, single or in a long-term relationship, it is never too late or too early to realize YOU ARE NOT BROKEN. With humor, candor and ease, I break down the stories that we have been told about being sexual beings, to help us play, and normalize our intimacy and health. Nothing in this podcast is personal medical advice, of course.

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