G-Chats With Giana Jarrah

What happens when one of the most isolating experiences of your life becomes the reason thousands of other women no longer have to feel alone? On this episode of G-Chats, I sat down with Brandi Twitchell, founder of the Beyond BV Facebook group and a staunch advocate for vaginal health.Beyond BV was born from Brandi’s own experience battling recurrent bacterial vaginosis during an incredibly difficult chapter of her life. She remembers feeling alone, hopeless, and desperate for answers, and ultimately decided that no other woman navigating BV should have to feel that way. So she created the community she wished she had. What started as a Facebook group has grown into a community of thousands of women talking openly about recurrent BV, vaginal health, the vaginal microbiome, and how to better advocate for themselves in a healthcare system where so many women still struggle to feel heard.In this episode, Brandi and I talk about her own BV journey, what she has learned from years of supporting women through theirs, the power of community, and why conversations like these matter so much.If you loved hearing from Brandi, you can find Beyond BV on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, explore her Beyond BV Wellness & Support community, and check out her book, "Me, A Tree, and BV," the very personal (and sometimes completely ridiculous 😂) story of how her experience with BV eventually turned into all of this.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bp4pBmg92/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_bvTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyondbvBook: https://a.co/d/01fc3l7y

Reproductive health shouldn’t only be something women are expected to understand. So this week, I sat down with my boyfriend to talk all things periods, pregnancy, birth control, hormones, and the female reproductive system, and see just how much he actually knows.Whether you have a uterus or just love someone who does, this is an episode everyone can learn something from!

TikTok has turned hygiene routines into an entire genre... but does doing more actually mean you’re cleaner?This week on G-Chats, I’m reacting to popular viral hygiene routines and breaking down what I think is actually helpful, what might be unnecessary, and where our obsession with being “clean” can start doing more harm than good.From intimate hygiene and shower routines to skincare, fragrance, hair care and everything in between, we’re talking about what hygiene actually means — and why you probably don’t need a 20-step routine to take good care of your body.Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on Spotify.

After hearing Todd Blanche's recent comments about working toward "permanent solutions" after Dobbs, I felt like this conversation needed to happen.Politics doesn't stop at the ballot box. It shapes reproductive healthcare, from abortion access and miscarriage care to IVF, contraception, medical research, and the care your OB-GYN is able to provide.In this episode, I break down what was said, what it could mean for women's healthcare, and why understanding the science behind these conversations has never been more important.

Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet it still takes many years on average for many patients to receive a diagnosis.In this week's episode, we're breaking down what endometriosis actually is, why it has historically been so difficult to diagnose, and the exciting medical advancements that are changing the future of care.We discuss:🩸 What endometriosis really is🔬 Why diagnosis has traditionally required surgery🧬 New research on noninvasive biomarkers🩻 Advances in ultrasound and MRI🧠 The roles of inflammation, hormones, nerves, and the immune system💛 Why there has never been more hope for earlier diagnosis and better treatmentsIf you've ever wondered whether your pain is "normal," this episode is for you.#endometriosis #endometriosisawareness #womenshealth #reproductivehealth #pelvicpain #gynecology #medicalresearch #biomedicalengineering #healtheducation #femalehealth

Before there was With Meraki Co., before the podcast, and before social media… there was a teenage girl watching someone she loved navigate a frightening health scare.In this episode, I'm sharing the story that shaped everything: from why I chose biomedical engineering to how that decision eventually led me to leave my career and dedicate my life to women's health education.This isn't just the story of my degree. It's the story of my purpose.#biomedicalengineering #womeninstem #founderstory #womenshealth #stem #entrepreneur #healtheducation #womeninbusiness #sciencecommunication #podcast

We teach our daughters about periods… but are we teaching our sons? In this episode, we talk about why reproductive health education shouldn't be gendered, how to explain periods, pregnancy, and anatomy to young children in age-appropriate ways, and why raising informed boys helps create more empathetic men.

Fibroids affect millions of women, yet so many of us don't know what they are until we're diagnosed. In this episode, we're breaking down the science behind uterine fibroids, why location often matters more than size, the symptoms you should never ignore, why Black women are disproportionately affected, and why this conversation deserves so much more attention. My hope is that you leave this episode feeling informed, empowered, and reminded that heavy bleeding and debilitating pelvic pain should never be dismissed as "just part of being a woman." 💛 #fibroidawareness #womenshealth #reproductivehealth #biomedicalengineer #healtheducation

Most people think the pelvic floor is only something you worry about after having a baby. The reality? Your pelvic floor is involved in bladder function, bowel movements, sexual health, posture, breathing, core stability, and even how your nervous system responds to stress.In this episode, we're connecting the dots between pelvic floor dysfunction, vaginal health, recurrent UTIs, painful sex, constipation, posture, trauma, and the nervous system. Plus, we are discussing why these systems should never be viewed in isolation.If you've ever been told "everything looks normal" while you still felt like something was wrong, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn why the pelvis is where biomechanics, microbiology, and the nervous system all intersect.

Have you ever wondered why a UTI, bacterial vaginosis, or yeast infection seems to come back, even after taking the "right" medication? One possible piece of the puzzle is something called a biofilm.In this episode, we're diving into the fascinating world of biofilms: what they are, why bacteria and yeast build them, how microbes communicate through quorum sensing, and why these protective communities have become such an important area of research in recurrent UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and even gut health.We'll also separate fact from fiction, discuss what the science actually says about disrupting biofilms, and explain why this emerging research is changing how we think about chronic and recurrent infections.If you've ever asked yourself, "Why does this keep happening?"... this episode is for you.

There are hundreds of products and home remedies marketed for vaginal and urinary health, but which ones actually deserve a spot in your routine?Today, we're playing "Yay, Nay, or It Depends?" and breaking down the science behind some of the most talked-about trends. My goal isn't to tell you what to buy, it's to help you understand the evidence so you can make informed decisions for your body.

This episode has absolutely nothing to do with who should couple up. Instead, we're discussing the questions I have about Love Island that nobody seems to be asking: How are they having their periods? Where are they pooping? Who is keeping everyone hair-free all summer? And how are they surviving those kissing challenges? Let's talk about it!

This Juneteenth, we're talking about a difficult but necessary topic: the legacy of racism in gynecology and women's healthcare.If all women experience medical misogyny, why do some women consistently experience worse outcomes than others?From the stories of Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey to modern maternal mortality disparities and Serena Williams' experience after childbirth, this episode explores how history can continue to shape healthcare long after it has passed. Because history doesn't have to be alive to leave fingerprints. #womenshealth #femalehealth

Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal conditions, yet it's still surrounded by confusion, stigma, and misinformation.In this episode, we're diving into the claim that BV is an STI, why that label isn't supported by what we currently know about the vaginal microbiome, and how sex absolutely can influence vaginal health without making BV a sexually transmitted infection.We also unpack why BV comes back so often, the limitations of how it's currently diagnosed and evaluated, and why so many people feel stuck in a cycle of treatment and recurrence. If you've ever wondered why BV can be so frustrating to manage, or why the conversation around it often feels oversimplified, this episode is for you.Because understanding the microbiology behind BV is far more helpful than attaching shame to it. 💞

In this episode, I'm reacting to viral TikTok feminine hygiene routines and discussing something I see far too often: fear of bacteria.Somewhere along the way, we've been taught that every smell, every discharge, every skin texture, and every microbe is a problem that needs to be scrubbed, disinfected, or eliminated. The result? Many people are using increasingly harsh products in pursuit of being "clean." But your skin and your microbiome aren't enemies.More often than not, loving your skin through gentle, nourishing care will reward you with less irritation, less odor, fewer breakouts, a healthier skin barrier, and a microbiome that can actually do its job. So let's talk about what these routines get right, where social media gets carried away, and why hygiene should support your body, not punish it.

This episode is probably one of the most personal episodes I’ve ever recorded. We’re talking about the REAL reason I created Barrier Bar, the science behind why the feminine hygiene industry has failed women for decades, the difference between vulvar and vaginal care, and why I believe women deserve something more nuanced than “harsh cleansing” versus “just use water.”I also talk about the emotional side of this launch, including weaving my Syrian heritage into Barrier Bar and collaborating with Syrian artist Farah Alimi to create a piece that represents womanhood, care, softness, and the story behind this product.This isn’t just about a cleanser. It’s about reframing the way women are taught to think about their bodies.Now streaming everywhere ♥️

In this episode, I break down The Guardian’s recent article on vaginal probiotics paragraph by paragraph as a biomedical engineer who studies female reproductive health and someone who actively critiques shame-based wellness marketing while ALSO recognizing that vaginal dysbiosis, recurrent BV, recurrent UTIs, and asymptomatic imbalance are very real.We discuss:• why wellness culture deserves criticism• why fear-based feminine hygiene marketing is harmful• why “self-cleaning” gets oversimplified• asymptomatic vaginal imbalance• Lactobacillus dominance and vaginal health• the lack of progress in BV/UTI treatment• emerging microbiome science• probiotics, strain specificity, and survivability• why “emerging science” ≠ “pseudoscience”• and the middle ground women actually deserveThe future of women’s health cannot continue existing in extremes.The article: https://www.theguardian.com/global/2026/apr/29/vaginal-microbiome-probiotics-marketing

The feminine hygiene aisle didn’t just appear overnight and it definitely wasn’t built around what the female body actually needs. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real history behind it, from early marketing rooted in “female weakness” and odor control to the normalization of douching and the creation of an entire category designed to make women feel like their bodies were a problem to fix. We’re talking about how fear, desirability, and even marriage were used as marketing tools, how science eventually pushed back, and why that messaging never fully went away, it just evolved.Then we connect it to today, because if you’ve ever heard phrases like “freshen up before sex,” “get rid of odor instantly,” or “make your vagina taste better,” you are seeing the modern version of the exact same shame-based marketing. It may look cleaner, more aesthetic, and more wellness-focused, but the underlying message has not changed.This episode is about understanding the difference between true hygiene and manufactured insecurity, and learning how to separate what your body actually needs from what you’ve been told it should be.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

I genuinely think vaginal microbiome testing is one of the most misunderstood areas of women’s health right now. People are opening these reports, seeing percentages and bacteria names they can’t pronounce, and immediately spiraling.So as your biomedical engineering big sister who studies female reproductive health, I made an entire episode teaching you how to actually read your microbiome test results WITHOUT fear mongering, misinformation, or oversimplifying the science.Because your microbiome is not about “good” bacteria vs “bad” bacteria. It’s about balance, dominance, patterns, and context.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

Most of what you were taught about your body wasn’t designed to empower you...it was designed to control you. From “stay fresh” to “don’t smell” to silence around discharge, pain, and infections, women’s health has been built on shame instead of science. And that doesn’t just exist culturally, it shows up in medicine too. In this episode, I’m unpacking how that conditioning starts, how it’s reinforced, and why so many women are left managing symptoms instead of understanding their bodies. This is a rant, but it’s also a reality check: your body is not the problem, the lack of education is.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

Fertility is constantly reduced to ovulation, timing sex, and tracking your cycle but that is only a small piece of what is actually happening in the body.In this episode, we break down the real biology behind your fertility journey, including the hormonal signaling that regulates ovulation, the role of the vaginal microbiome in implantation, how your gut influences estrogen metabolism, and why chronic inflammation can interfere with pregnancy even when everything looks “normal.”We also talk about something that is rarely acknowledged, which is that your nervous system, your metabolism, and your immune system are all directly involved in your ability to conceive. If those systems are dysregulated, your body will not prioritize reproduction the way you think it should.This is not about doing more or trying harder. It is about understanding your body well enough to support it. Because fertility is not a moment. It is a reflection of your overall health.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

In 2026, we finally mapped the full clitoral nerve network.An organ that exists in over half the population. An organ that is central to sensation and function. An organ that, until now, we didn’t fully understand.And the immediate response I’ve been seeing is: “well, the female body is more complex.” But that’s exactly the point.The female body is complex: hormonally, immunologically, anatomically. But instead of that complexity driving deeper research, it has historically been used as a reason to exclude women from it.For decades, women were left out of clinical trials because our bodies were seen as “confounding variables.” Instead of building better science, we simplified the data, and then applied it back to women anyway.So when we talk about this milestone, it’s not just about finally mapping a nerve network. It’s about recognizing how long we’ve been operating with incomplete information, and how that has impacted everything from surgical outcomes to symptom recognition to overall care. In this episode, I walk through what this research actually shows, what it changes, and why this moment matters far beyond anatomy.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

We were taught to call everything “the vagina”… and that’s exactly where the confusion starts. In this episode, we’re breaking down the vulva, what each part actually does, and why the skin in this area is fundamentally different from the rest of your body. Because you can’t care for something you were never properly taught to understand. Plus, we are launch something soon! Watch the full video to find out!Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

Mycoplasma is one of the most misunderstood topics in vaginal health. Not all mycoplasma are the same, and not everything that shows up on a test needs to be treated. In this episode, I break down the difference between Mycoplasma hominis and Mycoplasma genitalium, why one can show up with BV while the other is considered an STI, and how to actually think about infections versus imbalances. If you have ever been told everything looks normal but you still feel off, this episode will help you understand what might be missing and how to approach your health with more clarity and confidence. Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.comDesigned by freepik.com

Ureaplasma is one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health right now.It’s not a classic STI. It’s not always harmful. And testing positive does not automatically mean you have an infection.Ureaplasma is actually considered a commensal organism, meaning it can exist in the body without causing harm. Many people have it and never experience symptoms. But like many microbes in the vaginal microbiome, context matters. When imbalances occur, organisms that are normally quiet can start to thrive in ways that may contribute to symptoms.The challenge is that ureaplasma is not routinely tested for, difficult to culture, and even when detected through PCR, it’s not always clear whether it’s the cause of symptoms or simply present in the background.On top of that, common treatments for conditions like BV don’t effectively target ureaplasma, which can leave people feeling stuck when symptoms persist.This episode breaks down the science, the nuance, and the misinformation so you can better understand what ureaplasma is and what it is not.Because women deserve clarity, not confusion, when it comes to their health.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.com

Season 2 of G Chats with Giana is officially back. Today we’re answering your questions about recurrent infections, the vaginal microbiome, hormones, stress, gynecology education, and some of the biggest myths women are taught about their bodies. If you have a question you want covered in a future episode, leave it below.Free Stock Footage by Vecteezy.com

Season 1 Finale | The Women Who Changed Reproductive Health Behind every major breakthrough in reproductive health, there’s a woman often uncredited, overlooked, or deliberately erased. In this powerful season finale, I spotlight the forgotten pioneers, modern-day innovators, and brilliant women of color who’ve shaped our understanding of the female body against all odds.You’ll hear about:-The physician who disproved sexist myths about menstruation in the 1800s-The Puerto Rican doctor who fought back against forced sterilizations-The engineer using organ-on-a-chip tech to uncover the science of endometriosis-And the Black women today challenging systemic bias in reproductive careThis episode is a tribute to the women who demanded better for themselves, and for all of us. Because when women are shut out of research, the whole world loses. But when we reclaim our stories, we change the future of medicine.

In this episode, I’m diving into the feminine hygiene aisle to break down what these products are really doing to our bodies. From Summer’s Eve washes, deodorant sprays, and wipes to Vagisil anti-itch creams, powders, and even bloating relief pills, I’m sharing the hard truth about what’s marketed to us as “feminine care.” These products often use phrases like “pH balanced,” “gynecologist tested,” or “odor-blocking,” but behind the pretty packaging and clinical buzzwords is a whole lot of misinformation, microbiome disruption, and unnecessary shame.We’ve been told that we need to wash, wipe, spray, and powder ourselves into being “fresh,” but in reality, a lot of these products are harming the very balance they claim to protect. I talk about why douches are dangerous, how fragrances and preservatives can trigger irritation and infections, what “Lactobacillus ferment” actually is in your feminine wash, and why bloating during PMS might have nothing to do with water weight at all.If you’ve ever stood in the feminine care aisle confused, curious, or convinced something was wrong with your body, this series is for you. I’m here to unpack the science, the marketing, and the root causes so you can make informed choices and actually support your reproductive health without falling for the same tired industry myths.Subscribe to follow along as I take you through the feminine hygiene aisles of different stores, episode by episode, and shine a light on what’s really worth using and what needs to go.

📚 Cited Studies & Data SourcesMaternal Mortality Rates-Black women are 3–4x more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.Source: CDC Reproductive Health Report, 2020Hypertension and Heart Disease-Black women have the highest rates of high blood pressure among all groups in the U.S.Source: American Heart Association (Go Red for Women, 2018)Pain Bias in Medicine-Half of white medical trainees held false beliefs that Black patients feel less pain.Source: Hoffman KM et al. PNAS, 2016. PMID: 27044069Underdiagnosis in Endometriosis-Black women with endometriosis face delays in diagnosis and more advanced disease at diagnosis.Source: Bougie O et al., Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am, 2022. PMID: 35514542Fibroids Prevalence and Severity-Black women are 2–3 times more likely to develop fibroids and experience more severe symptoms.Source: Baird DD et al., Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2013. PMID: 12548202BV and Recurrent Infections-Black women have significantly higher rates of BV and are less likely to receive targeted treatment.Source: Donald J. Alcendor. Evaluation of health disparity in bacterial vaginosis and the implications for HIV-1 acquisition in African American women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2016; 76: 99–107.Clinical Research Representation-Black women are significantly underrepresented in reproductive health studies.Source: Clark LT et al., J Natl Med Assoc, 2022. PMID: 30545650🖤 Organizations to Support & FollowBlack Mamas Matter AllianceWebsite: https://blackmamasmatter.org Leading voice in advocating for Black maternal health and birth justice.SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice CollectiveWebsite: https://www.sistersong.netNational organization focused on reproductive justice through a human rights lens.The Afiya Center (Texas-based)Website: https://www.theafiyacenter.orgAdvocacy and direct support for Black women and girls impacted by reproductive oppression.National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC)Website: https://birthequity.orgWorks to optimize Black maternal and infant health outcomes.Black Women’s Health ImperativeWebsite: https://bwhi.orgThe first nonprofit created by Black women to help protect and advance the health of Black women and girls.Action Steps for Listeners✅ If you’re a Black woman:-Track your symptoms and bring written notes to every appointment.-Ask about microbiome, hormonal, and inflammatory root causes—not just quick fixes.-Consider working with a culturally competent doula, midwife, or pelvic health therapist.-Advocate for second (or third) opinions, you are not being “extra.”Check out Black-led wellness and advocacy communities (like @thevaginachronicles, @blackmamasmatter, or @balancedblackgirl).If you’re not a Black woman:-Amplify Black voices in healthcare conversations.-Donate to or volunteer with Black-led orgs.-Challenge bias when you see it whether it’s in conversation, a waiting room, or at a policy table.-Educate yourself on historical and current injustices and take that awareness offline into action.For Everyone:-Demand better research representation in clinical trials.-Support Black-founded wellness and health brands.-Call out medical misogyny and racism when you see it.-Share this episode because real change starts with real conversations.

You’ve heard of STDs. Then we started saying STIs. But what about BV? UTIs? Yeast? Are they even sexually transmitted? In this episode, we break down exactly what makes an infection sexually transmitted vs. something your body develops on its own plus why the cervix is the real target for most STIs, not the vagina.

Most people have no idea what Ureaplasma or Mycoplasma even are, let alone how they’re connected to persistent BV, chronic UTIs, infertility, and pelvic pain.Here’s the truth:🦠 These bacteria don’t have a cell wall which means most antibiotics don’t work.⚠️ They’re commensal, opportunistic and sexually transmitted.🧬 They form biofilms that make them nearly impossible to kill without the right approach.💊 And no, boric acid alone won’t cut it.In this episode, I’m breaking down how these stealth infections operate, how they tie into BV, why they’re often ignored, and what a real root-cause approach to treatment looks like including biofilm disruption, antibiotics, and rebalancing the vaginal microbiome.If you’ve ever been told “everything looks normal” while your body’s clearly telling you otherwise... this one’s for you.👉 Hit play, share it with your OB, and save it for your next “your labs are fine” moment.

Everyone’s talking about bikini bodies... I’m talking about vaginal and urinary microbiomes.Picture this: You’re on Love Island. You’re sweating 24/7, doing messy challenges, practically living in a thong bikini, sitting in chlorine, and sleeping in wet swimsuits. Sounds like paradise... until you think about your vaginal health.This week’s episode is your real summer survival guide, not the gimmicky “just drink cranberry juice” stuff. I’m breaking down exactly how I’d protect my body if I were on a tropical beach for a month, surrounded by bacteria, chlorine, and pH disruptors. From UTI prevention strategies to BV defense and yeast infection flare management, I’m sharing what actually works, backed by science, not wellness fluff.We talk probiotics (like With Clarity), D-Mannose, Uva Ursi, gut healing, topical lactic acid gels, stress regulation, and even why cotton shorts matter more than you think.If you’ve ever had a vacation ruined by a UTI or yeast infection... this one's for you. Tune in for the unfiltered truth about summer vaginal health because hot girls have healthy vaginas!

From anti–Pap smear rhetoric to AI apps creating fake doctors, the misinformation online is getting weird and it’s time we talk about it. In this episode, we break down viral TikToks and trending topics that are spreading false or misleading health claims. Some of it may be unintentional, but that’s exactly why these conversations are so important. Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow our podcast! Your support helps us keep these critical conversations going.

Let’s play “ask me anything” — vaginal health edition 💅🏽I’m answering questions from you! We will chat about:✦ Can sugar cause yeast infections?✦ Why do I get BV after sex?✦ Should I take probiotics with antibiotics?✦ Can my partner be giving it to me?✦ Is boric acid safe to use long term?✦ Do probiotics actually reach the vagina?✦ And sooo much more.Because getting recurring infections doesn’t mean you’re dirty.It means your microbiome needs help, and no, your doctor probably didn’t explain this part.Drop your questions below and I’ll keep answering 💊🦠#VaginalHealthQandA #WomensHealth #YeastInfectionHelp #BVRelief #ProbioticTalk #WithMerakiCo

For years I thought my hormones were “normal” because I had regular periods. But my labs told a different story: elevated testosterone, low estrogen, and low cortisol… and yet, no formal diagnosis, just frustration.I finally stopped waiting for someone to tell me what to do and started building a hormone-supportive routine based on what my body was actually asking for.🌿 A morning adrenal mocktail with myo-inositol, salt, and lemon🍳 A blood sugar-stabilizing breakfast with healthy fats, protein, and flax seeds💊 Targeted supplements to boost estrogen and calm androgens🌙 A bedtime probiotic that helps regulate my stress response and keep my microbiome balancedThis is what it looks like to work with your body, not against it.Hormone healing isn’t one-size-fits-all. But when you know what your labs mean, and what each food and supplement actually does, you can stop guessing and start aligning.Curious what I’m taking and why? I’ll break it down for you in this video!#HormoneHealth #CycleSyncing #WomensHealth #AdrenalSupport #PCOSAwareness #RootCauseHealing

Let’s talk about the viral vaginal health trends taking over TikTok from vabbing to koochie juice, perineum sunning, Yoni pearls, and even garlic down there (yes, really). I’m reacting in real-time, so you’ll hear exactly what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what’s flat-out dangerous. This episode is spicy, unfiltered, and backed by real evidence.⁠Let’s cut through the noise and get to the truth about your vaginal health.⁠#vaginalhealth #vabbing #yonipearls #womenshealth #TikToktrends #reproductivehealth #wellnesstrends #mythbusting

Think your gut just handles digestion? Think again.In this episode, we break down how your gut directly impacts your hormones, your immune response, and even your vaginal microbiome. From chronic infections to estrogen dominance, the gut is often the missing piece in women’s health and no one’s talking about it.⁣🎧 Tune in to learn how gut health could be the reason behind your BV, UTIs, PCOS, or a leaky gut, and what to do about it.#GutHealth #VaginalHealth #WomensHealth #HormoneBalance #PodcastForWomen

This week’s episode is proof that childbirth is not just beautiful, but can have the most unexpected and hilarious turn. We’re spilling the hilarious birth stories you didn’t know you needed!🎧 Tune in and join me in ‘The G-Spot’ for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversations every Friday!✨ Follow My Socials! ✨Stay connected and join the conversation! 💖📷 YouTube: @GChatsPodcast🍏 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🌸 Podcast Instagram: @gchatspodcast💞 Personal Instagram: @gianajarrah📱 TikTok: @gianamj💌 Website: https://www.shopwithmerakico.com/

You’ve heard “get your rest” and “drink water,” but what actually happens to your body after you give birth? In this episode, we unpack the real hormonal chaos that unfolds postpartum from the estrogen crash that tanks your serotonin, to why you feel overstimulated, disconnected, or just not like yourself. This isn’t just about baby blues or bouncing back.We dive into the unspoken science behind the “mommy body,” what your doctors probably didn’t tell you, and how to actually support your body during this massive hormonal rewiring. I’ll walk you through powerful (and not-so-obvious) ways to care for your nervous system, mood, vaginal health, and overall healing including supplements and adaptogens to nervous system tricks and ancient practices that deserve a comeback.If you’re in the thick of it or preparing for postpartum, this is your guide to rebuilding, rebalancing, and reclaiming your body on your terms.#PostpartumRecovery #PostpartumHormones #FourthTrimester #WomensHealth #HormoneHealth🎧 Tune in and join me in ‘The G-Spot’ for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversations every Friday!✨ Follow My Socials! ✨Stay connected and join the conversation! 💖📷 YouTube: @GChatsPodcast🍏 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🌸 Podcast Instagram: @gchatspodcast💞 Personal Instagram: @gianajarrah📱 TikTok: @gianamj💌 Website: https://www.shopwithmerakico.com/

For two years, I lived in fear of using the bathroom — burning, antibiotics, doctors dismissing me, and no real answers. This is my full story, what actually helped, and what I wish someone told me sooner. If you’ve ever felt alone in your UTI journey, this one’s for you!

We’ve been told infertility is about hormones, egg quality, or age but there’s an emerging critical piece that’s been left out of the conversation: your vaginal microbiome.In this episode, I break down the science behind how the vagina prepares for pregnancy during ovulation, how sperm survive the journey to the egg, and what can go terribly wrong when the vaginal ecosystem is imbalanced. We’ll talk about sperm-toxic bacteria, cervical mucus disruption, and how chronic inflammation can silently sabotage implantation, even when all your labs look “normal.”You’ll also learn:1. How estrogen shapes your vaginal microbiome2. What happens to sperm in an imbalanced vaginal environment3. The connection between hormonal disorders (like PCOS) and vaginal dysbiosis4. Why recurrent BV, endometritis, and even Ureaplasma can make conception harder5. How to support your vaginal microbiome for improved fertility outcomesIf you’ve ever been told your infertility is “unexplained,” or that everything looks “fine”... this episode is for you. It’s time we stop treating the vagina as an afterthought in fertility science. #infertility #infertilityawareness #microbiome #probiotics

From a forgotten tampon for over a MONTH to being in an ICU with sepsis... These UTI horror stories from Reddit? I’m SHOOK. 😳💀 If you’ve ever had a UTI, this episode is a MUST. Let’s talk prevention, panic, and probiotics 🧠💊"🎙️ New G-Chats with Giana episode out now!👇 Comment your own horror story — or what saved you.#UTIawareness #vaginalhealth #redditstories #UTIprevention #sepsis #probiotichealth #chronicUTI #vaginalmicrobiome #recurrentUTIs #tiktokpodcast #healthtok #womenshealthmatters

From chronic BV to cytolytic vaginosis, vaginal probiotics, and lichen sclerosus, this episode is packed with real answers to real questions submitted by our community. I’m diving into everything you’ve been dying to ask but didn’t know who to trust:🌿 Are baby wipes messing with your pH?🦠 Is lichen sclerosus caused by bacteria?💊 Can probiotics be inserted vaginally?🛁 What’s up with getting BV after sex (and could it be his soap)?🩸 Tampons, yeast infections, suppositories, and so much more.I’m giving you honest, research-backed guidance on how to care for your vagina without fear or confusion. Plus, a little insight on what it takes to get probiotics peer-reviewed and into major retailers like Target.Whether you're a longtime listener or brand new here, this is a can't-miss episode full of clarity, empowerment, and no-BS education. 💛

What actually happens in your body during a menstrual cycle when you’re not on birth control?In this episode, we’re going deep into the biology that was never properly explained because understanding your cycle is the foundation for making informed choices about birth control, fertility, and your overall health. Whether you're trying to conceive, avoid pregnancy, or just want to stop feeling confused by your own body, this is your episode.We’re breaking it all down in plain language, no fluff, no shame, just facts and empowerment.

You’ve been told endometriosis is just “uterine lining growing where it doesn’t belong.” But what if I told you… that’s completely wrong? 👀In honor of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we’re unpacking one of the most misunderstood chronic illnesses in women’s health. From the misleading name to the myths that keep people undiagnosed and untreated for years. Spoiler: the tissue isn’t even endometrium. And that’s exactly why so many treatments fail.We’ll talk about:✨ Why “endometriosis” is a name rooted in outdated science🧠 The truth about the tissue and why it behaves nothing like uterine lining🔥 The real reason your uterus isn’t the problem (and why removing it doesn’t cure anything)💥 What this disease actually is: a full-body inflammatory condition that needs a whole new approachIf you’ve ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or just confused by what endo really is—this one’s for you.#EndometriosisAwareness #TheGChatsPod #EndoEducation #WomensHealthUnfiltered

You may not know her name, but her cells have touched every corner of modern medicine. From the polio vaccine to IVF to COVID-19 research, Henrietta Lacks’ cells, taken without her consent, changed the world.In this episode, I dive into the life of the woman behind the HeLa cell line. We explore who Henrietta was, how her cells became immortal, and the ethical, racial, and human cost of scientific progress.Her story isn’t just history, it’s a reflection of the medical injustices still happening today.🎧 Listen, learn, and say her name: Henrietta Lacks.💜 To honor her legacy and support her descendants, please visit and donate to the Henrietta Lacks Foundation, which provides education and healthcare support to individuals who have been unknowingly involved in research:👉 henriettalacksfoundation.org

Get ready for a wild ride, because in this episode, I’m diving into some of the most unbelievable, jaw-dropping, and downright horrifying OBGYN stories we found on Reddit! From medical gaslighting to insane misdiagnoses and doctors who clearly skipped empathy training, these stories will have you screaming, cringing, and maybe even questioning the entire field of gynecology.I’ll be reacting in real-time, breaking down the medical madness, and giving my take on what should have happened in these situations. Because let’s be real—women’s health deserves so much better.🎧 Buckle up, hit play, and let’s rage (or laugh?) together. Don’t forget to subscribe and share with your friends who need to hear this! 🚨#OBGYNHorrors #RedditStories #WomenDeserveBetter

Your pelvic floor is more important than you think! If you’ve been struggling with recurring UTIs, BV, yeast infections, painful sex, or urinary issues, your pelvic floor might be the missing piece to your health puzzle. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Julia Smeltz, a pelvic floor therapist, to uncover what doctors don’t tell you about your pelvic health and how it impacts your vaginal microbiome, bladder health, gut function, and even fertility.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Video:✅ Signs Your Pelvic Floor Is Dysfunctional (And How to Fix It)✅ How BV, UTIs, and Yeast Infections Are Linked to Pelvic Floor Issues✅ The Truth About Kegels—Are You Doing More Harm Than Good?✅ How to Strengthen (or Relax) Your Pelvic Floor for Optimal Vaginal Health✅ The Connection Between Hormones, Stress & Your Pelvic Floor🚨 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert insights on vaginal health, pelvic floor care, and breaking the taboo around women’s health!🔎 Connect with Dr. Julia Smeltz:🌿 Website: www.core4healingandwellness.com – Book a Discovery Call if you are local to the Lehigh Valley!📚 Online Courses on Menstrual & Reproductive Health: Infradianinstitute.com📸 Instagram: @core4_healing_and_wellness📖 Her Published Works on Amazon:➡ Yoga for the Pelvic Floor: Bridging the Gap Between Physical Therapist & Yoga Instructor → https://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Pelvic-Floor-Bridging-Therapist/dp/B0BP493WXW/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30E7F4Z0HD0IS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.B0Ibd8m48qKo5jqcfEhacv2DHp7mmJB5HKQpsB3vdWU.ZYxIFu_EV0Ok8kRlTz5T7B8rStYlkUfTgUnijr7eG_8&dib_tag=se&keywords=Julia+smeltz&qid=1740763367&sprefix=julia+smeltz%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-1➡ Things Your Doctor Didn’t Tell You About C-Section Recovery & Healing → https://www.amazon.com/Things-Doctor-C-Section-Recovery-Healing/dp/B09QP2GVM6/ref=sr_1_2?crid=30E7F4Z0HD0IS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.rAE-wDLc73qOBb0y_T8395yls47zlo6y4aC2Q6tOD-c.HBVq1O11ilNLKn8lnRe8Utg2moNJzYYIuRmPE1OwinE&dib_tag=se&keywords=Julia+smeltz&qid=1740763367&sprefix=julia+smeltz%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-2#customerReviews🌎 Find a Pelvic Floor Therapist Near You:🔹 Pelvic Global Directory: pelvicglobal.com🔹 Pelvic PT Rising Directory: pelvicptrising.com/map🎧 Tune in and join me in ‘The G-Spot’ for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversations every Friday!✨ Follow My Socials! ✨Stay connected and join the conversation! 💖📷 YouTube: @GChatsPodcast🍏 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🌸 Podcast Instagram: @gchatspodcast💞 Personal Instagram: @gianajarrah📱 TikTok: @gianamj💌 Website: https://www.shopwithmerakico.com/

🎧 Tune in and join me in ‘The G-Spot’ for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversations every Friday!✨ Follow My Socials! ✨Stay connected and join the conversation! 💖📷 YouTube: @GChatsPodcast🍏 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🌸 Podcast Instagram: @gchatspodcast💞 Personal Instagram: @gianajarrah📱 TikTok: @gianamj💌 Website: https://www.shopwithmerakico.com/🔬 🚨 The UTI Truth No One Talks About 🚨If you’ve been struggling with chronic UTIs, you’ve probably been told to drink more water, pee after sex, or wipe front to back. But what if I told you your UTIs aren’t just a hygiene issue—they’re actually coming from your gut?💡 Here’s the science:🔬 Your gut acts as a reservoir for UTI-causing bacteria like E. coli, Klebsiella, and Enterococcus. When your gut is imbalanced (dysbiosis), these bacteria don’t just "hop" from the anus to the urethra—they can actually translocate through the bloodstream, lymphatic system, or migrate directly from the intestines to the bladder.🦠 This is why UTIs keep coming back! Antibiotics may clear the infection temporarily, but they wipe out good gut bacteria, allowing the bad ones to thrive—and the cycle repeats.So how do we actually stop recurring UTIs? Let's dive into it in this episode, because if you’re tired of relying on antibiotics that don’t actually fix the root cause, this episode is for you. Your gut health is the key to UTI prevention. Watch now to learn more!🔗 Listen to the full podcast episode now!

PCOS isn’t just about cysts on your ovaries—it’s a full-body endocrine disorder that affects your metabolism, hormones, and overall health. In this episode of G-Chats with Giana Jarrah, we dive deep into what’s really happening inside the body with PCOS, why so many people go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, and how to address it at the root cause. We break down the miscommunication between the brain and ovaries, insulin resistance, androgens, cortisol dysregulation, and even the thyroid connection. If you’ve been told to 'just lose weight' or 'just take birth control,' this episode will change everything. Knowledge is power—let’s take control of our health!🔍 What You’ll Learn:✅ What PCOS really is (beyond ovarian cysts)✅ The role of insulin, androgens, estrogen, and cortisol in PCOS✅ Why some people with PCOS ovulate while others don’t✅ How stress, inflammation, and thyroid dysfunction impact PCOS✅ Why conventional treatments like birth control & Metformin don’t address the root cause✅ Natural strategies for hormone balance & long-term PCOS management🎧 Tune in now for the science-backed PCOS breakdown you deserve!