Amy Poehler's Shoulder & The Pregnancy Myth That Won't Die

This episode debunks common perimenopause myths, including the dangerous idea that pregnancy isn't possible during perimenopause. Nykki explores new research on bloating as a legitimate hormonal symptom and examines the connection between frozen shoulder and hormonal changes. Key Takeaways: • Bloating during perimenopause is a documented hormonal symptom, not just "normal aging" • You can still get pregnant during perimenopause despite irregular periods • Social media misinformation about perimenopause is leading to unplanned pregnancies and unnecessary treatments • Frozen shoulder may be connected to estrogen fluctuations during perimenopause • Healthcare providers need to consider perimenopause when treating seemingly unrelated conditions in midlife women Sources & References: • Bloating During the Menopause Transition: Seattle Midlife Women's Health Study (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42200334/) - PubMed • Misinformation about perimenopause on social media 'putting women at risk' (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/may/25/misinformation-about-perimenopause-on-social-media-putting-women-at-risk) - The Guardian • Amy Poehler and Naomi Watts Both Have Frozen Shoulder. Is Perimenopause to Blame? (https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxNWVZqT2NjVFRnZlVpMWRibUxzcmVwRm1OLUlEQWZYV0ZDWjhnMUZ2bXdiOU1XRENvQXV3S2Q3cGQ3T2ZqbVRHVDNKczlueVY1WjB5aVA0MmdtWDNoUEltbUNLNE1mMDJvck5KYnFCNUxfRGVDUzJaN08zQXdJRFBlOG5QdGZrVVhxZnZhby1DZEVzM1NJREpsTkJ1TEp5cGhBY1R5cG4yNE9Wdw?oc=5) - ELLE Listen with full show notes: https://hotflasher.com/episodes/2026-05-27-myth-busting Have a menopause story to share? We'd love to hear it: https://hotflasher.com/share --- Hot Flasher provides informational content only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns.