143. Why So Many Midlife Women are Misdiagnosed with UTIs

Are you constantly being told you have a UTI—only to finish another round of antibiotics and still not feel better? If you’re in perimenopause or menopause and suddenly dealing with bladder pain, urinary urgency, painful sex, or recurrent infections, you are not alone.In this episode, I’m joined by women’s health advocate and Desert Harvest CEO Heather Florio to unpack the often-overlooked connection between hormones, pelvic health, bladder symptoms, and sexual wellness in midlife. We’re talking about why so many women are misdiagnosed, how menopause impacts urinary and vaginal tissue health, and what you can do to advocate for yourself and finally get the support you deserve.This conversation is empowering, practical, and full of science-backed insights that every midlife woman should hear.In this episode:[02:00] Why recurrent UTIs in menopause are often more complicated than they seem[03:42] The hidden risks of overusing antibiotics when cultures come back negative[05:00] The difference between interstitial cystitis and bladder pain syndrome[07:30] How vaginal estrogen can support both vaginal and urinary health[08:43] Why painful sex during menopause is incredibly common—and what can help[10:00] Heather explains the science behind Desert Harvest’s aloe vera products and bladder health support[13:08] How to advocate for yourself when you’re not getting answers from traditional healthcare providers[14:00] Why pelvic floor dysfunction can contribute to bladder pain, urgency, and recurrent symptoms[18:16] How bladder pain and vaginal tissue changes can impact libido and intimacy[20:27] The role of orgasms, vibration, and pelvic floor health in sexual wellness[22:26] What to know about vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, pH, and osmolality during menopause[24:25] Supportive options for painful intercourse and chronic pelvic painConnect with Heather Florio:Heather Florio is a sexpert, CEO, and outspoken advocate for women’s health and leadership. As the second-generation owner of Desert Harvest, she leads a company focused on medical-grade pelvic and sexual health products trusted worldwide. She is on a mission to break stigma, reshape conversations around sexual wellness, and position women’s health as a business and leadership priority. Heather also writes “Dear Sexpert” for Bella Magazine, offering candid, science-backed advice that empowers women to take control of their bodies and boundaries. Recognized by Authority Magazine and Forbes, she is a global voice at the intersection of entrepreneurship, healthcare, and advocacy, and has presented at the White House while serving on the board of the Northern Light Health Center for Healthy Brain Aging.Website: https://desertharvest.comInstagram: @desertharvestaloveraConnect with me, Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae/If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps more women find this space so we can all rise and thrive togetherHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!