A Candid Conversation on Perimenopause

In this insightful episode of Midlife Repurposed, host Michelle Rayburn sits down with Dr. Mikala Albertson, a board-certified family practice doctor and author of "Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife: A Woman's Guide to Health in the Body You Actually Have." Together, they unpack a wealth of practical health advice tailored for midlife women navigating the complexities of perimenopause and beyond.Dr. Albertson shares down-to-earth tips for maintaining the health of the body you have, underscoring realistic and sustainable goals over unattainable ideals. The conversation addresses the often-overlooked health effects on intimacy, stressing the importance of open dialogue with your healthcare provider and your partner.Michelle and Mikala also delve into traditionally taboo topics such as urinary incontinence and the profound impact of perimenopause symptoms on daily life. From the need for individualized healthcare consultations to the benefits of preventive health exams, this episode is a treasure trove of information for enhancing well-being in midlife.Links:Book: Everything I Wish I Could Tell You About Midlife: A Woman’s Guide to Health in the Body You Actually HaveClaim your preorder bonuses (through October 8)Connect with Mikala on Facebook and InstagramMikala’s websiteListen to Mikala tell her story on the podcast before (Life Repurposed episode 160)About Mikala:Dr. Mikala Albertson is a board-certified family practice doctor, author, and well-being advocate who is passionate about women’s health and healing in the imperfect bodies we actually have. She’s the author the book Ordinary on Purpose and inspires readers every day to stop striving for “perfect” lives or some unattainable cultural ideal of “beauty and wellness” and instead aim for wholehearted living through a gentle, achievable, sustainable approach.Key Takeaways:* Realistic Health GoalsMikala debunks the myth of chasing unrealistic fitness ideals and encourages setting sustainable, grounded health targets that fit your lifestyle.* Limited AgencyThe conversation explores the balance of control we have over our health and acknowledges what we can't change, a crucial mindset for managing stress and anxiety.* Impact on IntimacyHealth changes can affect intimacy, a topic often neglected by doctors. Albertson discusses how to bring up these sensitive issues during medical appointments and highlights the role of sex therapists.* Perimenopause InsightsFrom hot flashes to irregular cycles, this episode covers the A to Z of perimenopause symptoms and effective strategies for managing them.* SupplementsLearn about the safe and beneficial supplements you should consider, and why caution is necessary with the supplement industry’s less regulated offerings.Main Ideas:* Health AwarenessPractical tips for embracing the body you have and why realistic health goals lead to better long-term success and emotional well-being.* Open ConversationsEncouragement for open discussions about traditionally taboo topics like intimacy, urinary incontinence, and mental health.* Medical CollaborationTips on finding the right healthcare providers and the importance of a collaborative approach to your health.This content does not replace consulting your doctor for advice. This interview is for discussion purposes and for learning. We are each responsible to evaluate the information and discuss with our doctors. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michellerayburn.substack.com