Welcome to Rebranding Menopause, where we're opening up the conversation about menopause in a way that's real and unfiltered. In this episode, we're thrilled to have Vera Sweeney, a popular social media influencer and founder of Lady and the Blog, joining us. Vera is known for her insightful content on lifestyle and parenting, and today, she's sharing her experiences with perimenopause.

We start by delving into the symptoms of menopause – from hot flashes and hair loss to dental issues and irregular periods. It's a chance to hear from both Vera and our hosts, Ingrid Dodd and Dana Persico, who are further along in their menopause journeys.

Next, we tackle hormone replacement therapy (HRT). What is it, how does it work, and what are the potential risks? We reference a study involving 10,000 women where 8% may have a higher risk of stroke with HRT, but for most women this is Safe - emphasizing the importance of making informed decisions about treatment! We need to research the NEW Studies!

A key focus of this episode is the role of social media in providing information about menopause. With 48% of women getting their menopause information from social media compared to only 15% from medical professionals, we explore how this shift is influencing the way women understand and manage their symptoms has drastically changed since our grandmothers went through it.

We discuss both the benefits and potential pitfalls of relying on social media for health advice.

This leads us to advocate for better education and legislation, such as the Midlife Care Act, which aims to make menopause education mandatory for healthcare providers. It's crucial that medical professionals are well-informed to provide accurate and comprehensive care.

Throughout the episode, we share personal stories and inject some humor to keep things light, because menopause can be tough, but we don't have to face it alone.

If you're navigating perimenopause or menopause and have questions about the information you've found on social media versus what your doctor has told you, this episode is a must-listen. Join us in the conversation and share your experiences.

Don't forget to follow Vera Sweeney on her social media channels for more of her insights, and check out our Instagram for links to trusted menopause specialists from Northwell.

Stay tuned for more episodes of Rebranding Menopause, where we're committed to redefining the narrative around this natural phase of life."

Get In Touch With Vera Here:

Instagram: http://Instagram.com/verasweeney

TikTok is @Vera_sweeney

YouTube: http://www.YouTube.com/verasweeney

Website: http://www.ladyandtheblog.com

Guest Background: Vera Sweeney

Vera Sweeney, social media influencer and founder of Lady and the Blog, LLC, focuses on lifestyle and parenting content. Her significant social media presence includes 55,000 TikTok followers and approximately 80,000 Instagram followers, with high engagement, mostly from women, adding a unique perspective to the episode as she discusses menopause from a non-medical, influencer standpoint, particularly relevant for her mommy blogger friends.

Hosts:

Ingrid Dodd & Dana Persico

Connect with Us:

• Website: https://www.rebrandingmenopausepodcast.com/

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OIUm5hfoPMEKSQiyrqm6L?si=601e444399fa4646

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rebranding-menopause-podcast/id1779129093

• iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-rebranding-menopause-podca-237306244/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebrandingmenopausepodcast

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Rebranding-Menopause

📺 Watch live on YouTube or catch the replay on all major podcast platforms: Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon, Pandora, and more!