Understanding Menopause: Mental Health and Hormone Therapy

Podcast: Season 2 Episode 5

Join me and my Guest Co-Host Lori Corrigan, who is not only my friend but a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Lori will be sharing the mic with me for the remainder of Season 2 while Wendy takes some time off.

A podcast promo image features portraits of Lynn Voegler and guest co-host Lori Corrigan, with the title "Two Porches and a Pour" over a cozy porch background. Illustrations of two clinking wine glasses highlight the podcast's inviting vibe.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

This conversation explores the multifaceted experience of menopause, focusing on hormone replacement therapy, mental health impacts, lifestyle adjustments, and navigating changes in intimacy and libido. Lori and Lynn emphasize the importance of self-care, open communication, and seeking professional help to manage the challenges associated with menopause. They also highlight the potential for personal growth during this transitional phase of life.

Show Notes:

Takeaways:

Menopause can significantly impact mental health, leading to mood swings and anxiety.
Seeking professional help is crucial for managing menopause symptoms.
Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can alleviate some menopause symptoms.
Open communication with partners about intimacy is essential during menopause.
Self-care practices are vital and should be prioritized during this time.
Women should be proactive in seeking information and support regarding menopause.
Hormone replacement therapy options are evolving and should be discussed with healthcare providers.
Mindfulness and stress management techniques can help cope with menopause symptoms.
It’s important to recognize that menopause is a journey that varies for each woman.
Women can experience personal growth and empowerment during and after menopause.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy
05:56 Mental Health Impacts of Menopause
12:03 Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments
17:57 Exploring Libido and Intimacy During Menopause
23:22 Navigating Menopause: A Shared Journey
24:28 Understanding Changes in Intimacy
25:43 Responsive Desire: Reframing Sexual Encounters
27:38 The Importance of Communication in Relationships
29:40 Creating Safe Spaces for Open Dialogue
30:28 Addressing Physical Symptoms and Seeking Help
32:24 Empathy and Support from Partners
34:29 Personal Growth and Self-Care During Menopause
36:42 Finding Joy in New Activities
39:30 Resources and Support for Women
40:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations

Resources:

Understanding Menopause: Part 1 (holistic health remedies)
https://www.theholistichealthapproach.com/blog/understanding-
menopause-part-1
Mindfulness May Ease Menopausal Symptoms
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mindfulness-may-
ease-menopausal-symptoms/
Menopause can be rough. Psychology is here to help.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/09/easing-transition-into-
menopause
Menopause depression: Under recognized & poorly treated.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11308326/
Menopause and Sex: Navigating Changes and Embracing Intimacy
https://www.mythrivepsychology.com/thrive-blog/menopause-and-
sex-navigating-changes-and-embracing-intimacy

CONNECT WITH LORI:

Foundation 4 Life
Facebook
Lori Corrigan: lori@found4life.org

CONNECT WITH ME:

Two Porches and a Pour

Two friends of a certain age who live 2000-miles apart talking about life, love and a little design. Listen as we sip through the seasons of life.

This conversation explores the unique experiences and challenges of pregnancy in one's 40s, highlighting the humorous and serious aspects of being labeled as 'geriatric' during pregnancy. The speakers discuss the stark differences in treatment and perception between younger and older mothers, shedding light on societal and medical attitudes towards maternal age.

Takeaways: