Pelvic Pain unPacked: Real Talk About Pain, Pleasure, & Wellness

Muscle discomfort is something most of us experience, and in this episode, we take a closer look at why CBD muscle cream may offer a more effective solution than traditional topicals. We start by breaking down how common products like menthol-based creams actually work. These treatments rely on the gate control theory of discomfort, using sensations like cooling or heat to override discomfort signals traveling to the brain.  From there, we explore how CBD enhances this approach. In addition to activating similar sensory pathways, CBD works on a deeper level by reducing inflammation, calming nerve irritation, and easing muscle spasms. This makes it particularly helpful for both short-term injuries and chronic discomfort conditions that tend to flare up over time. We also discuss practical ways to maximize relief, including combining CBD topicals with heat, ice, or TENS therapy. Ultimately, this episode offers a clearer understanding of how discomfort works in the body and why a multi-layered approach can provide longer-lasting, more meaningful relief than traditional options alone. In this episode, you will hear: How the gate control theory of discomfort explains relief from traditional topicals Role of menthol-based creams in masking discomfort signals without treating inflammation CBD's dual impact on discomfort blocking and inflammation reduction Differences between short-term relief and longer-lasting discomfort management Real-world examples from athletic injuries and chronic discomfort flare-ups Importance of early intervention to prevent compensatory injuries Combining CBD with heat ice or TENS therapy for enhanced results Resources from this Episode Guest's Website: https://medroots.com/  Gate Control Theory of Pain: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Gate_Control_Theory_of_Pain  Inflammation and Muscle: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/myalgia-muscle-pain  Chronic Pain Cycle: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0901/7324/3714/files/Chronic_Pain_Cycle.pdf?v=1759175698  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

Finding effective, accessible relief for pelvic floor dysfunction can be challenging, especially when traditional medications come with unwanted side effects or barriers to access. In this episode, we take a closer look at both conventional treatments and emerging natural alternatives, focusing on the role of CBD suppositories in managing pelvic discomfort. We start by unpacking the differences between hypotonic and hypertonic pelvic floor dysfunction. From there, we explore standard care approaches, including pelvic floor physical therapy as the gold standard and commonly prescribed medications. While these options can help, we discuss key drawbacks such as sedation, potential dependence, and limited accessibility due to prescribing restrictions and insurance challenges. The conversation then shifts to CBD as a potential alternative. We share how cannabinoids may support muscle relaxation and reduce inflammation with fewer side effects, making them a compelling option for some patients. In this episode, you will hear: Common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction Pelvic floor physical therapy as the gold standard treatment Use of medications for pain relief and what they are Side effects and limitations of traditional pharmaceuticals CBD suppositories as a natural alternative for muscle relaxation and inflammation Resources from this Episode https://medroots.com/  Find a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Herman and Wallace: https://pelvicrehab.com/  APTA: https://www.aptapelvichealth.org/ptlocator  Chronic Pain Cycle: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0901/7324/3714/files/Chronic_Pain_Cycle.pdf?v=1759175698  Inflammation and Muscle: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/myalgia-muscle-pain  Hypotonic vs Hypertonic Pelvic Floor: https://www.kgoal.com/a/blog/pelvic-pain/hypertonic-vs-hypotonic-pelvic-floor?srsltid=AfmBOopUQUAVrPkH-eMzq_VK82rjZwa2-CxilMTs5Ur_PRz4RlBS7Y_A  International Pelvic Pain Society: https://www.pelvicpain.org/  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

Menopause is often treated as a phase women simply have to endure, yet the reality is far more complex. As hormonal changes begin, often during perimenopause, many women experience symptoms that affect nearly every aspect of daily life, from sleep and mood to metabolism and overall well-being. In this conversation, we speak with pharmacist, integrative women's health coach, and certified menopause educator Victoria Byrd about what is really happening in the body during midlife. With more than two decades of experience in healthcare, Victoria shares how her own experience with early symptoms like night sweats and sleep disruption pushed her to seek better answers and ultimately focus her work on helping women navigate menopause with clarity and confidence.  We explore the wide range of symptoms that can appear during perimenopause, including hot flashes, mood changes, weight gain, brain fog, and irregular cycles. Victoria explains how fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone influence many of these changes and why symptoms such as joint discomfort, sleep disturbances, and metabolic shifts are often overlooked or misunderstood. The discussion also highlights the gap many women face in traditional healthcare, where menopause education is limited, and symptoms are sometimes dismissed as simply part of aging. Ultimately, the conversation reframes menopause as a transition that deserves attention, education, and open discussion — empowering women to better understand their bodies and take an active role in their health. In this episode, you will hear: Understanding common perimenopause symptoms The role of estrogen and progesterone fluctuations in midlife health changes Silent menopause symptoms The gap in menopause education within traditional healthcare Lifestyle strategies, including stress management, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and strength training Open conversations about vaginal health, pelvic symptoms, and sexual wellness during menopause Exploring supportive options, including hormone therapy and natural tools like CBD Resources from this Episode https://medroots.com Victoria Byrd's Website - https://www.womenmasteringmidlife.com Victoria's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/msvictoriabyrd https://research.rutgers.edu/news/cbd-shows-health-benefits-estrogen-deficient-mice-model-postmenopause https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10177097/ https://leafwell.com/blog/cbd-oil-for-menopause https://www.joinmidi.com/post/cbd-for-menopause https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/are-women-turning-to-cannabis-for-menopause-symptom-relief-202210242837#:~:text=The%20survey%20found%20that:%20*%2086%25%20of,not%20improve%20as%20much%20from%20cannabis%20use Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Discomfort is rarely as simple as a single cause, and in this episode, we explore how chronic pelvic discomfort often becomes a self-sustaining cycle rather than a standalone condition. We break down a complex web of interconnected factors including nerve signaling, muscle spasms, and changes in body mechanics that reinforce and amplify one another over time. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of why discomfort can persist even after the original trigger, such as injury or surgery, has been treated, and how central sensitization keeps the body in a constant state of high alert.  We also examine how pelvic discomfort adds another layer of complexity, affecting bladder and bowel function, sexual health, and emotional well-being. These overlapping systems can intensify both the physical and psychological burden, making recovery feel overwhelming without the right approach. A key takeaway from the conversation is the importance of a comprehensive, multi-pronged treatment strategy. Rather than targeting a single symptom, effective care involves calming the nervous system, improving muscle function, and retraining the body through therapies like pelvic floor physical therapy.  Finally, we discuss how CBD may support this process by helping ease muscle tension and modulate discomfort signaling, offering a well-tolerated option within a broader treatment plan. In this episode, you will hear: Understanding the chronic discomfort cycle and how it reinforces itself Central sensitization and the brain's role in persistent discomfort Interplay between nerve irritation and muscle spasms Pelvic discomfort complexities including bladder, bowel, and sexual function Emotional impact including stress and medical trauma Importance of a comprehensive multi target treatment approach Role of CBD in reducing muscle tension and discomfort signaling Resources from this Episode Website - https://medroots.com/  https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0901/7324/3714/files/Chronic_Pain_Cycle.pdf?v=1759175698  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7023045/  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12472909/#sec9-neurolint-17-00141  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9294022/#:~:text=In%20animal%20models%2C%20CB1,2014).  https://www.ccjm.org/content/85/12/943#:~:text=A%20number%20of%20studies%20have,better%20sleep%20and%20functional%20improvement.  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7480724/#s005  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4604171/  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3371734/  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7554803/#sec6-ijms-21-06740  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

The endocannabinoid system is one of the most influential systems in the body — yet most people have never heard of it. In this episode, Tamar Hill and Dr. Charity Hill unpack what the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is, why it matters, and how CBD interacts with it, especially for people navigating ongoing discomfort and pelvic health concerns. We explain that the ECS plays a role in supporting balance, or homeostasis, throughout the body. From discomfort regulation and immune response, to mood, sleep, stress response, digestion, immune function, and reproductive health, the ECS quietly influences many of the systems that are often out of sync during chronic or persistent challenges. We walk through the legal definition of hemp, why THC percentage matters, and why visual appearance alone can't tell you what a product contains. From there, we break down the different types of CBD products available today, including CBD isolate, broad spectrum, full spectrum, nano CBD, and hemp-only products, explaining how each is made and who may find them most appropriate based on individual goals and preferences. A key takeaway from the episode is the importance of reading labels and understanding certificates of analysis (COAs). We discuss how to evaluate potency, recognize misleading marketing, and confirm that products have been tested for safety and quality. Listeners will leave with a practical understanding of the ECS, a clearer picture of how CBD products differ, and the tools to make more informed, confident choices when navigating the crowded cannabinoid marketplace. In this episode, you will hear: What the endocannabinoid system is and why it matters How the ECS supports balance, discomfort regulation, and inflammation Differences between hemp, CBD, and marijuana Legal definitions of THC and why chemical testing matters How to read CBD labels and certificates of analysis Safety, quality, and choosing the right product for individual needs Resources from this Episode https://medroots.com/ Role of the Endocannabinoid system: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569#:~:text=The%20endocannabinoid%20system%20(ECS)%20is%20a%20network,to%20control%20the%20activity%20of%20other%20neurotransmitters  Types of CBD: https://www.healthline.com/cbd/types-of-cbd#A-few-product-recommendations  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

In this episode, we dive into the reality of painful periods and why so many people are searching for alternatives to traditional pain medications. We talk openly about how common dysmenorrhea is, how it can affect work, school, and daily life, and why menstrual pain is still so often dismissed or stigmatized. We break down what's happening in the body during a painful period, explaining how inflammation and strong uterine smooth muscle contractions — sometimes compared to labor — contribute to cramping sensations that may radiate into the hips, back, legs, and pelvic floor. We also walk through the most common approaches women are offered, including hormonal birth control, over-the-counter NSAIDs, and prescription medications, discussing why these options don't work for everyone and can come with potential side effects or risks. We explore CBD suppositories as an alternative approach to menstrual pain support. We discuss research suggesting that the cervix contains a high concentration of endocannabinoid receptors and explain how placing CBD closer to the uterus may help support the body's natural response to inflammation and muscle tension. When paired with ingredients like magnesium, this localized approach is often discussed as a way to support overall comfort and daily functioning for some individuals. Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of why period pain occurs, why conventional approaches may fall short for some people, and how CBD suppositories are being explored as a practical, proactive option for navigating menstrual discomfort with greater confidence and less disruption. In this episode, you will hear: How common and disruptive painful periods really are The biology behind menstrual cramps and uterine muscle contractions Productivity loss, stigma, and emotional toll of period pain Limitations and risks of birth control, NSAIDs, and opioids Importance of cycle tracking and early pain prevention CBD suppositories and the endocannabinoid system in pelvic pain relief Resources from this Episode Guest's website - https://medroots.com/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2931545/  https://www.nature.com/articles/s44294-024-00032-0  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

In this episode, we join Tamar and Dr. Charity Hill for another conversation on pelvic pain and the growing interest in CBD suppositories as a natural, comfort-focused option. We explore how CBD suppositories differ from other forms of CBD by being applied directly to the area of concern. This localized approach allows cannabinoids to be absorbed closer to where they are used, which may support the body's natural response to inflammation and muscle tension, without some of the systemic effects some women report with oral products. We also discuss why suppositories are often considered by individuals navigating conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic floor dysfunction, painful periods, and postpartum or menopausal changes. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize education and informed decision-making. We break down what to look for in high-quality CBD products, including sourcing, formulation, and third-party lab testing, while also addressing common questions and misconceptions. Safety considerations, dosage awareness, and paying attention to individual responses are recurring themes, along with the importance of having open conversations with qualified healthcare providers. Listeners can expect to gain a clearer understanding of how CBD suppositories may fit into broader pelvic wellness conversations, why they are gaining attention as a natural option for support, and how some women are exploring alternative approaches to improve comfort and overall quality of life. The conversation aims to empower women with knowledge, validation, and practical insights into an often-overlooked area of health. In this episode, you will hear: Understanding pelvic pain and why it is often overlooked or misunderstood How CBD suppositories work for localized pelvic relief Conditions that may benefit, including endometriosis and pelvic floor tension Differences between suppositories and other forms of CBD Safety considerations and choosing high-quality CBD products Listening to the body and individual responses to treatment Resources from this Episode Guest's website - https://medroots.com/ https://nihrecord.nih.gov/2024/04/26/pelvic-floor-psa  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10121619/  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

Welcome to the first episode of Pelvic Pain unPacked, a podcast dedicated to breaking the silence around a common yet often misunderstood condition. Hosts Tamar Hill and her sister, Dr. Charity Hill, introduce the purpose of the show and share why pelvic pain deserves more awareness, compassion, and better care. Dr. Hill, a physiatrist specializing in pain management, discusses how both her medical training and personal experience with pelvic pain shaped her career focus. The conversation explores why pelvic pain is frequently underdiagnosed, how medical dismissal impacts patients, and why a multidisciplinary approach — including pelvic floor physical therapy — is essential. The episode also introduces the endocannabinoid system and the potential role of plant-based therapies like CBD as supportive tools for pain management. Listeners can expect expert insights, patient-centered discussions, and a welcoming space focused on education, validation, and hope for those navigating pelvic pain. In this episode, you will hear: Why pelvic pain is common, real, and often misunderstood Personal and clinical perspectives from a pain management physician The impact of medical dismissal and underdiagnosis What pelvic pain can include for different bodies Limits of traditional pain treatments and opioid-centered care Role of pelvic floor physical therapy in recovery Introduction to the endocannabinoid system and plant-based pain support Resources from this Episode Guest's website - https://medroots.com/  https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/women-and-pelvic-pain-what-you-should-know#:~:text=Sarah%20D  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review," then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

1 in 10 people will struggle pelvic pain and discomfort in their lifetime. Anything from dyspareunia, endometriosis, IBS, post-surgical recovery, prostatitis and more. Each episode of Pelvic Pain unPacked opens the conversation on pelvic and sexual health, and what options are out there to manage pain on the road to recovery. Designed for patients, providers, and anyone seeking education beyond the standard textbook!