Ep 95: Stress, Missing Periods & Your Long-Term Health: Understanding HA with Dr. Chrisandra Shufelt of Mayo Clinic

If you’ve ever been told to “just go back on the pill” when you lost your period, or you’ve been dismissed with a misdiagnosis like “PCOS type D,” this episode is a must-listen.Today, Lindsey sits down with Dr. Chrisandra Shufelt, Chair of General Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and a leading researcher in Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (FHA). Dr. Shufelt has spent decades studying how hormones, stress, metabolism, and lifestyle interact to influence women’s health—especially heart health.Together, they break down:What FHA actually is (spoiler: it’s not just “no period”).Why high-functioning, health-conscious women often miss the diagnosis.How low estrogen + chronic stress impacts bone density, cardiovascular function, inflammation, and brain signaling—even when you feel “fine.”Why one in every three women with FHA may already be showing early cardiovascular changes, even in their 20s.How ongoing research is working to improve diagnosis, treatment, and awareness—including two major new studies that need participant voices.This is a supportive, science-backed, empowering conversation that every active woman needs to hear.About Our GuestDr. Chrisandra Shufelt, MD, MSChair, Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic JacksonvilleInternational researcher in women’s hormonal health, cardiovascular risk, and menopausePrincipal investigator on multiple studies examining FHA and long-term health outcomesResources & Research ParticipationDr. Shufelt and her team are actively recruiting for two important research studies:1. REVEAL Registry (Virtual / Worldwide)For women with missing or irregular cycles, with or without a formal diagnosis.No clinic visit required.→ Join the REVEAL Registry: https://noperiod.info/reveal2. ARCH FHA Study – Mayo Clinic Jacksonville (Travel Stipend Provided)A 3-month research study evaluating cardiovascular + bone health in women with FHA.Travel expenses are covered.→ Apply for the ARCH Study: https://noperiod.info/archConnect with Lindsey:Instagram: @‌food.freedom.fertilityWebsite: www.foodfreedomandfertility.com/Twitter:@lindseylussonTiktok: @‌food.freedom.fertility