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Hormone therapy remains the gold standard for treating menopausal symptoms—hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. When started within 10 years of menopause onset, it offers a remarkable 30% reduction in all-cause mortality. Yet this fact rarely makes headlines.

Join Speaking of Women's Health Podcast Host Dr. Holly Thacker as she reads and discusses Chapter 10: The Risks and Benefits of Hormone Therapy from her book, "The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Menopause."

The most important takeaway? Don't let fear dictate your menopause journey. Work with a knowledgeable physician to assess your individual risks and benefits. Whether you're experiencing severe symptoms, concerned about bone health, or dealing with early menopause, safe and effective options exist.

Have you been avoiding hormone therapy based on outdated information? It might be time to reconsider. 

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Are you tired of feeling like you're navigating menopause or perimenopause alone, armed only with contradictory advice and sensationalized headlines? Dr. Holly Thacker, Director of the Center for Specialized Women's Health at Cleveland Clinic, is here to change that. 

In honor of October being World Menopause Month, we are replaying this first episode of Dr. Thacker's podcast series based on her book, "The Cleveland Clinic Guide to Menopause."

In Chapter 1, Choosing and Seeing a Doctor at Midlife, Dr. Thacker addresses a fundamental truth often overlooked in women's healthcare: there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. What works perfectly for your neighbor might be completely wrong for you. This personalized approach extends to finding the right healthcare clinician who understands that women's health concerns are rarely black and white. She offers practical guidance on identifying red flags in healthcare interactions and selecting a physician who specializes in midlife women's health.

Ready to reclaim control of your midlife health journey? Join Dr. Thacker throughout World Menopause Month as she continues this series with more episodes on menopause. Remember—it's your body, your hormones, and your choices.

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Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker's column on nutrition and menopause.

Hormonal changes must be taken into account for recurrent urinary tract infections associated with menopause.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the routine issues primary care doctors see in their practices, and more often than not, they can be addressed with a single course of antibiotics.

But when UTIs become frequent enough to meet the American Urological Association's definition of recurrent—two or more infections in six months, or three or more infections in a

Dr. Holly L. Thacker discusses the connection between breast cancer and menopause in midlife women.

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In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Holly Thacker tackles the complex relationship between alcohol and health, particularly for women. Drawing from both scientific evidence and personal stories, she explains why women experience more severe effects from alcohol than men—even when drinking the same amount.

The conversation goes beyond basic facts about alcoholism to explore how alcohol uniquely impacts women's bodies. Dr. Thacker reveals that women metabolize alcohol more slowly and experience more concentrated effects due to naturally lower body water content. She shares concerning observations from her own medical practice, where she's seen women develop liver and heart damage from what many would consider "moderate" drinking—just one drink per day over many years.

Particularly alarming are the potential interactions between alcohol and medications. With over 150 medicines known to interact dangerously with alcohol—from common pain relievers to prescription medications—understanding these risks becomes crucial, especially for older adults who typically take multiple medications daily.

For pregnant or breastfeeding women, Dr. Thacker doesn't mince words: there is no safe amount of alcohol. She shares a personal experience of how quickly even a small sip of champagne transferred to her breast milk and affected her nursing infant.

Whether you're concerned about your own relationship with alcohol or worried about a loved one, this episode provides valuable insights into recognizing problematic drinking patterns, understanding treatment options, and accessing resources for help. Dr. Thacker emphasizes that alcoholism is a disease that can be treated effectively, though it requires honesty and appropriate support.

Subscribe to the Speaking of Women's Health podcast for more essential health information that empowers you to be strong, be healthy, and be in charge of your wellbeing.

For referral to drug and alcohol treatment programs in your area, call:

Assessment Center Drug and Alcohol Abuse Hotline
1.800.234.0420
National Alcohol and Drug Help Line
1.800.821.HELP (4357)

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That burning sensation creeping up your chest after a delicious meal isn't just uncomfortable—it's your body sending you an important message. Dr. Holly Thacker breaks down the crucial differences between occasional acid reflux and chronic GERD, a condition affecting one in three adults that shouldn't be ignored.

Drawing from decades of clinical experience, Dr. Thacker explains how your lower esophageal sphincter functions as the gatekeeper between your stomach and esophagus, and why factors like age, pregnancy hormones, certain medications, and lifestyle choices can compromise this important barrier. You'll learn why that burning sensation happens and how it can lead to more serious complications when left untreated.

Whether you experience occasional heartburn or struggle with chronic reflux, this comprehensive guide provides the knowledge you need to take control of your digestive health. Subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights that help you Be Strong, Be Healthy, and Be in Charge!

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What happens when your body enters perimenopause? Does hormone therapy cause cancer?

Dr. Madeline Cohn, who recently joined Cleveland Clinic's Center for Specialized Women's Health as a staff physician, brings clarity to these questions. With expertise in menopause care, sexual health, osteoporosis, and general gynecological concerns, Dr. Cohn tackles six persistent menopause myths that cause unnecessary worry.

Dr. Cohn explains how menopause affects sleep, mood, memory, skin, weight distribution, sexual function, and—most importantly—long-term health risks including cardiovascular disease and bone loss.

Dr. Cohn's compassionate approach emphasizes individualized care, acknowledging that each woman's experience with menopause is unique. Her most powerful message encourages women to advocate for themselves when symptoms arise and seek providers who take their concerns seriously.

To make an appointment with Dr. Cohn, call 216-444-8686. Or if you are looking for a menopause expert in your area, visit menopause.org.

Subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights on women's health at every stage of life.

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During perimenopause—the years leading up to your final period—your body becomes a bustling hub of hormonal change. Picture Grand Central Station, only instead of passengers racing to make their trains, baristas serving coffee and bagels, and tourists pausing to gawk at interesting architectural details, you’ve got estrogen levels zigzagging all over the place, progesterone taking the elevator down to the basement, and testosterone swinging from the chandelier. The result: An arrivals board

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Have you ever wondered why urinary issues seem to affect women differently than men? The answer lies in our unique anatomy and hormonal makeup — factors that make female urinary health both fascinating and complex.

Dr. Holly Thacker takes listeners on a comprehensive journey through the most common urologic conditions affecting women during Urology Awareness Month. From the annoying but potentially dangerous urinary tract infections to the embarrassing reality of pelvic organ prolapse that affects up to one in eight women, this episode breaks down what's happening and why.

"Everyone needs a bladder that works," Dr. Thacker emphasizes as she explores how bladder health connects to overall wellness and quality of life. She tackles taboo topics with medical precision while offering practical advice for prevention and management. You'll learn why maintaining pelvic floor strength matters even if you've never been pregnant, how hormonal changes dramatically affect urologic health, and why sexual function is inextricably linked to bladder health.

Subscribe to the Speaking of Women's Health Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and visit speakingofwomenshealth.com for more resources on taking charge of your health.

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What is Boron?

Boron might not be a household name, but this trace mineral quietly supports your bones, brain, and hormones. While it’s not officially classified as an essential mineral, its potential health benefits make it worth knowing—and most people get enough from a plant-rich diet.

The Benefits of Boron

🦴 Bone & Joint Health

Boron helps your body absorb calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus—key minerals for strong bones. It also extends the effects of estrogen

Speaking of Women's Health Executive Director Holly L. Thacker, MD provides insight into how menopause is perceived around the world. 

Despite conflicting results of previous studies, a new meta-analysis reveals an 18% higher risk of stroke for women having a hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy and a 5% higher risk for hysterectomy alone

CLEVELAND, Ohio (Sept 3, 2025) – Given the seriousness and increased frequency of strokes, many studies have been conducted to assess the relationship between hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy and the risk of stroke with varying results. A new study suggests women having

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Ovarian cancer, the second most common gynecologic malignancy, can be cured 90-95% of the time when caught early. 

Speaking of Women's Health Podcast Host talks through the risk factors like family history, BRCA gene mutations, obesity, and personal reproductive factors that are essential for early detection and prevention.

• Risk increases with age (over 50), family history, and BRCA gene mutations
• BRCA1 carriers face 35-70% lifetime risk compared to less than 2% in general population
• Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and hormonal contraceptives reduce risk by decreasing ovulation
• Tubal ligation, especially salpingectomy, dramatically lowers ovarian cancer risk
• Common symptoms include abdominal swelling, urinary changes, bloating, early satiety
• Regular pelvic exams and prompt reporting of symptoms are crucial for early detection
• Ashkenazi Jewish women have ten times higher rate of BRCA mutations
• Avoid using talcum powder near genital area as it's been linked to increased risk
• Consider genetic counseling if strong family history exists
• Prophylactic removal of tubes/ovaries after age 40 may be recommended for high-risk women

Please follow the Speaking of Women's Health podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Remember Be Strong, Be Healthy, and Be in Charge!

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Could balancing your omega-3 and omega-6 intake be the key to better health and wellness? Discover how omega fatty acids play a pivotal role in our lives as host Dr. Holly Thacker unravels everything you need to know about omega fatty acids.

Join us as we explore the remarkable benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on conditions ranging from depression to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Thacker addresses the challenges of achieving adequate omega-3 intake solely through diet and the potential necessity of supplements, especially for vegetarians.

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Purpose

Over the past few decades, our ability to diagnose, treat, and manage recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) long-term has evolved due to additional insights into the pathophysiology of rUTI, a new appreciation for the adverse effects of repetitive antimicrobial therapy (“collateral damage”), rising rates of bacterial antimicrobial resistance, and better reporting of the natural history and clinical outcomes of acute cystitis and rUTI. For the purposes of this guideline,

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Join Speaking of Women's Health Podcast Host Holly Thacker, MD, for secret skincare tips from dermatologists and other experts for younger, healthier skin. 

Did the summer sun dry out your hair and skin? This episode is filled with ways to get rid of sun spots, improve split ends and bring a glow to your skin.

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Nurse Alexandria Delasantos shares the most common menopause myths.

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The battle against cognitive decline begins long before memory problems appear. Dr. Holly Thacker delivers a fascinating deep dive into the nutrients and supplements proven to protect your brain as you age, with startling revelations about how women's brains age differently than men's.

At the heart of this episode is a treasure trove of practical knowledge about brain-protective nutrients. A newly available over-the-counter supplement called CerefolinNAC Brain Wellness (formerly prescription-only) combines active folate, methylated B12, and NAC to support brain health.

Perhaps most fascinating is the discussion of magnesium's profound impact on brain volume – particularly in women. Despite its vital role in over 300 enzymatic systems, nearly half of Americans consume insufficient amounts. 

Beyond supplements, Dr. Thacker emphasizes the critical role of physical activity, social engagement, and cognitive challenges in maintaining brain health. For anyone concerned about maintaining mental sharpness through midlife and beyond, this episode provides the roadmap you've been searching for.

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Nurse Samantha Graham joins Speaking of Women's Health Podcast Host Dr. Holly Thacker to share her expansive nursing knowledge and provide essential guidance on preparing for surgery and breastfeeding success. Sam offers both professional insights and personal experiences to help patients navigate important healthcare moments with confidence.

• Various nursing career pathways from nursing assistants to advanced practice nurses
• Flexibility of nursing careers for work-life balance
• Critical importance of following pre-operative instructions precisely
• Special considerations for patients on weight loss medications before surgery
• Why honesty about tobacco, alcohol use, and medications is crucial for surgical safety
• Pre-surgical preparation including bathing protocols and avoiding shaving\
• Importance of having support persons during hospital stays
• Differences between local and general anesthesia options
• Practical breastfeeding advice focused on baby's needs rather than social media expectations
• Realistic approach to breastfeeding challenges and support resources

Visit speakingofwomenshealth.com for additional resources on breastfeeding and preparing for surgery.

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