Spicy Vaginas, Real Vulvas & The "Lazy Girl" Guide to Exercise

Is it really possible to have an “acidic vagina” from taking too many probiotics? Why are we often sold a “Barbie doll” version of what our anatomy “should” look like? And, how do you actually start exercising as a self-proclaimed “lazy girl”? In this episode, Claire and Dr Mariam speak to Dr Mandy Hagstrom, an accredited exercise scientist and Associate Professor at UNSW, to find out how to get the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to exercise. They discuss the “weekend warrior” approach, why women might need less exercise than men to see the same longevity benefits and they explore cardio vs weight training.  They also talk about why your exercise timing doesn't actually matter, debunking the social media myth that fasted morning workouts are the magic pill for fat loss. Plus, in Med School, we dive into the world of "spicy" vaginas. We look at the viral claim of "acidic vagina" syndrome, whether you can actually overdose on probiotics and why your lady parts are essentially a self-cleaning oven that doesn't need micromanaging. And, in our Quick Consult, Dr Mariam answers Amelia’s question about whether it’s normal for her vulva to be wrinkly or discoloured. We strip away the expectations and celebrate the "50 shades of beige, pink and purple" that make up real, healthy anatomy. EPISODE RESOURCES If you want to learn more about the topics discussed in today’s show, check out these helpful links: The Vulva Gallery: An educational platform and community celebrating vulva diversity. MOVE by Mamamia Health Direct - Physical Activity Guidelines NSFW: Here's what a vagina actually looks like Flip Through My Flaps GET IN TOUCH Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon. Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here, email here or leave us a voice note here. Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room. Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok. Support independent women’s media by becoming a Mamamia subscriber CREDITS Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam Guest: Dr Mandy Hagstrom  Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best Group Executive Producer: Ilaria Brophy Audio Producer: Scott Stronach Video Producer: Julian Rosario Social Producer: Elly Moore Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.Support the show: https://www.mamamia.com.au/mplus/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.