Women's Healthspan Voices with Dr. Pat McShane
Pat McShane, MD 47 episodes Nov 5, 2026
Women's Healthspan Voices with Dr. Pat McShane focuses on the health and well-being of women after menopause. Dr. McShane challenges the assumption that symptoms over 50 are simply aging. She provides practical advice on heart health, bone strength, memory, and energy. The podcast features clear answers and real conversations to help women live smarter and longer.
Episodes
From PCOS to PMOS: What Women Should Know After Menopause
In this episode, I discuss why polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, formerly PCOS, remains relevant after menopause. I explain how its metabolic effects can persist beyond the reproductive years, including risks involving insulin resistance, diabetes, cardiovascular health, and the endometrium. I also cover practical ways to monitor these risks through health screening, resistance exercise, w
Pelvic Floor Therapy With the Vagina Coach: More Than Kegels and Bladder Control
In this episode, I speak with Kim Vopni, known as The Vagina Coach, about why pelvic floor health matters for mobility, confidence, sexual function, and healthy aging. We discuss urinary leakage, pelvic pain, prolapse, and genitourinary syndrome of menopause, including why symptoms deserve assessment rather than dismissal. Kim explains how pelvic floor physical therapy, individualized exercises, a
Unintentional Weight Loss in Older Women: Causes and Health Risks
I examine why unintentional weight loss in older women deserves attention. I explain how changes in appetite, digestion, taste, medication use, mobility, and social connection may contribute to anorexia of aging and loss of muscle. I also distinguish this condition from eating disorders that can persist or reappear later in life, discuss the possible roles of menopause-related changes and depressi
Stronger Bones at Every Age: A Proactive Approach to Bone Health
I speak with Margie Bissinger about protecting bone health before and after menopause. We discuss why bone health deserves attention earlier in life, how DEXA scans and additional tests can add context, and the roles of nutrition, resistance and balance training, stress, and underlying health issues. We also examine exercise safety and why osteoporosis medications may have a place for people at hi
What Your Pelvic Floor Needs as You Age
I speak with Dr. Amanda Olson about pelvic floor health after menopause and why treatment is not limited to pregnancy or postpartum care. We discuss incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, sexual health, and what a pelvic floor evaluation involves. Dr. Olson explains why symptoms may involve muscles that are weak or too tight, how treatment is individualized, and how physical activity, bladder habits
Women's Health Span: Preventing Late-Life Disability and Enhancing Longevity
In this episode, I examine disability as the gap that can develop between healthspan and lifespan, particularly for women as we age. I discuss common contributors, including musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neurological, and mental health conditions, and practical ways to protect mobility and independence through activity, bone and muscle health, fall prevention, preventive care, sleep, and social
When a UTI Isn't the Whole Story
In this episode, I discuss urinary tract infections and why recurrent urinary symptoms after menopause may not always be caused by a UTI alone. I explain how pelvic floor disorders and genitourinary syndrome of menopause can contribute to similar symptoms, why proper evaluation matters, and how treatment may include pelvic floor physical therapy, moisturizers, lubricants, or local hormone therapy
Hearing Loss, Menopause, and Healthy Aging
In this episode, I discuss how hearing changes with age and menopause, why hearing loss may affect more than communication, and when to seek testing or treatment. I explain possible links with dementia, social isolation, depression, and falls, along with common risk factors, tinnitus, noise exposure, and practical ways to communicate with someone who has hearing loss.- - - - -About the Host:Dr. Mc
Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause: Why Your Joints and Muscles May Feel Different
In this episode, I discuss musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause and why joint pain, stiffness, fatigue, muscle loss, and certain conditions may become more common across the menopause transition. I explain how declining estrogen may affect cartilage, synovial fluid, bone, and muscle, what clinicians may consider when ruling out other causes, and where hormone therapy, exercise, nutrition, weight
The Fitness Skills That Matter as We Age
In this episode, I examine what recent research suggests about physical activity and healthy aging. I discuss prolonged sitting, walking speed, bone-loading exercise, balance and agility, lower-body strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and ways to add more varied movement safely. I also explain why walking is valuable but may not provide every fitness stimulus we need as we grow older.- - - - -Abo
Beyond BMI: A Better Way to Understand Obesity
Your BMI can place you in a category. But it cannot tell you whether your weight comes from fat or muscle, where body fat is stored, or whether it is already affecting your health.In this solo episode, Dr. Pat McShane examines a newer clinical framework for understanding obesity. Two people with the same BMI can have very different body compositions, levels of organ function, and health risks. She
Are All Ultra-Processed Foods Equally Harmful? What Women Need to Know
Ultra-processed foods make up a significant part of the modern diet. But identifying them is not always as simple as checking the nutrition label, and not every food in this broad category may affect your health in the same way.In this solo episode, Dr. Pat McShane breaks down how foods are classified, what makes a product ultra-processed, and why certain options deserve greater concern than other
Burning Mouth Syndrome: The Menopause Symptom Too Many Women Don’t Know About
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Susan Sklar to explore Burning Mouth Syndrome, a painful condition that affects many women during perimenopause and menopause but often goes undiagnosed. We discuss how declining hormones, nerve health, nutrition, inflammation, thyroid function, and chronic stress may all contribute to symptoms, and why a personalized, functional medicine approach can offer hop
Ayurveda and Menopause: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Women's Health
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Shivani Gupta about how Ayurveda approaches menopause as a natural transition rather than a decline in health. We explore the role of chronic inflammation, gut health, circadian rhythms, sleep, and daily rituals in supporting women's healthspan. Dr. Gupta shares practical strategies for reducing inflammation, improving resilience, and creating greater vitality
Is It Menopause or Your Thyroid? What Women Need to Know
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Daryl Turner to explore why thyroid disorders are so often overlooked in women, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, when symptoms can overlap significantly. We discuss common signs of thyroid dysfunction, the relationship between thyroid health and other hormones, and how sleep, stress, exercise, and nutrition may influence overall hormonal balance
The Truth About Women's Brain Health After 50
In this episode, I sit down with neurologist Dr. Kenneth Sharlin to explore why women face a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease after menopause. We discuss the protective role of estrogen, the importance of hormone replacement therapy, genetic risk factors like ApoE4, and the everyday lifestyle habits—including sleep, movement, nutrition, stress management, and social connection—that may help
Pain, Dryness, and UTIs: The Truth About Menopause and Vaginal Health
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christina Enzmann to discuss Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a condition that affects far more than vaginal dryness alone. We explore how menopause impacts vaginal and urinary health, the role of vaginal estrogen, common misconceptions about hormone therapy, changes in the vaginal microbiome, pelvic floor dysfunction, and why many women are dismissed
Why a Weekend Getaway Leaves You Exhausted—and How to Fix It
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Monisha Bhanote to explore why travel often becomes more challenging as we age. We discuss how travel can reveal underlying issues in energy production, gut health, immunity, circadian rhythm, and recovery. Dr. Bhanote explains the role of mitochondria, inflammation, and the microbiome in healthy aging, while sharing practical strategies to help women build res
Rewiring the Body: Applied Neurology for Lifelong Healing
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Laurel Oliver to explore how chronic stress, nervous system dysregulation, and survival patterns can impact a woman’s ability to heal. We discuss applied neurology, neuroplasticity, vagal tone, and practical tools that may help regulate the nervous system. We also examine how menopause can become a powerful opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and creating n
Navigating the Menopause Transition: Hormones, Health, and Research History
In this episode, I speak with renowned menopause researcher and clinician Dr. Nanette Santoro about the evolving science of menopause hormone therapy. We discuss what we've learned from the SWAN study, how the Women's Health Initiative changed the conversation around hormones, and what current evidence tells us about symptom management, bone health, vaginal estrogen, and long-term risks. W
Women’s Healthspan: The Habits That Slow Biological Aging
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Laurie Marbas about the biological processes of aging and the everyday habits that can influence them. We explore why movement is one of the strongest tools for healthy aging, how plant diversity, fiber, time-restricted eating, and blood sugar stability support metabolic health, and why tiny habits can make lifestyle change feel more possible and sustainable.- - -
Why Menopause Feels Harder for High-Performing Women
In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, I speak with Dr. Hanah Polotsky about why menopause can feel especially disruptive for high-performing women balancing careers, caregiving, and constant demands. We discuss brain fog, sleep disruption, metabolic changes, stress, and why “normal” lab work does not always reflect how women actually feel. Dr. Polotsky also shares practical strategies for
Cholesterol May Not Be the Real Cause of Heart Disease: What We Need to Know
In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, I speak with Diamond Fernandes about a different way of understanding heart disease prevention. We explore why cholesterol may not be the primary driver of cardiovascular disease, how inflammation and artery health play a larger role, and why many standard heart screenings may miss underlying risk. Diamond also shares practical lifestyle strategies tha
How Women Can Reduce Fall Risk and Stay Independent Longer
In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, I discuss why falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence in older women. I walk through the biggest contributors to fall risk, including medications, poor balance, muscle loss, low bone density, hearing and vision changes, sleep problems, and home hazards. I also share practical, evidence-based ways to reduce fall risk and p
Inflammation: The Hidden Driver of Pain, Fatigue, and Irritability After Menopause
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Paula Kruppstad about how inflammation, toxins, and lifestyle factors shape women’s health after menopause. We explore common symptoms like pain, fatigue, and sleep issues, and why hormones alone are not the full answer. She shares a functional medicine approach that focuses on diet, detoxification, and personalized care to help women feel better and address root
Why Heart Disease Is the #1 Killer of Women (And Why Most Don’t See It Coming)
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Joel Kahn to explore why heart disease remains the leading cause of death in women and why it’s often missed until it’s too late. We discuss early screening, the impact of menopause and hormones, and how lifestyle choices like diet, sleep, and inflammation management can dramatically reduce risk. This conversation offers practical, science-backed steps to prote
A Chinese Medicine Perspective on Menopause, Mobility, and Longevity
In this episode, I speak with Dr. John Nieters about menopause through the lens of Chinese medicine, where it is seen as a “second spring” rather than a decline. We explore frailty, blood stasis, osteoporosis, overmedication, and why movement, protein, fiber, and social connection matter so much for women’s healthspan. It is a rich conversation about aging with more strength, clarity, and freedom.
Why Sleep Falls Apart During Menopause and What You Can Do About It
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Audrey Wells to explore why sleep becomes such a struggle during menopause. We unpack the real physiological changes behind disrupted sleep, why insomnia is often misdiagnosed, and how conditions like sleep apnea are frequently missed in women. We also talk about practical ways to improve sleep, from hormone therapy to behavioral strategies and better sleep eva
Why Bone Health Declines Faster After Menopause and What You Can Do About It
In this episode, I explore bone health with Kathy Basel and what women can do to protect their strength as they age. We discuss how bone loss accelerates after menopause, why early testing matters, and how targeted mechanical stress can help rebuild bone density. We also cover nutrition, balance, and lifestyle strategies that support long-term mobility and reduce fracture risk.- - - - - Kathy Base
Is It Really Your Fault? The Science of Weight Loss Resistance in Women
In this episode, I explore why weight gain becomes more common during menopause and why traditional dieting often fails. I talk with Dr. Carolynn Francavilla about the role of hormones, insulin resistance, and metabolic adaptation, and how these changes impact body composition. We also discuss personalized treatment options, including nutrition, exercise, medications, and when surgery may be appro
Rethinking Menopause: Hormones, Detox, and the Missing Links to Feeling Like Yourself Again
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Julia Ward to explore a functional medicine approach to menopause and midlife health. We discuss how bioidentical hormones, reducing toxic burden, and addressing root causes can transform symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and poor sleep. Dr. Ward shares how small, practical changes can help women regain energy, clarity, and a sense of vitality during this trans
Why Your Body Runs on a 24-Hour Clock—and Why It Matters to Women’s Health
In this episode, I explore the science of circadian rhythm and why it plays such a vital role in healthspan. I discuss how our internal clocks regulate hormones, metabolism, sleep, and energy—and how modern lifestyles can disrupt these rhythms. I also share simple strategies to support better circadian alignment through light exposure, consistent sleep, exercise, and meal timing.- - - - - Dr. McSh
Lifespan vs Healthspan: Why Blood Sugar Control Changes Everything
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Beverly Yates about why diabetes risk rises during menopause and how blood sugar affects everything from energy to brain health. We explore the difference between lifespan and healthspan, the role of A1C testing and CGMs, and why strength training may be the most powerful prevention strategy. This conversation is about taking control before pre-diabetes turns into
Why Your Gut May Be the Root of Your Midlife Symptoms
In this episode, I speak with Daniel Chille about how the gut microbiome influences hormones, inflammation, brain health, and aging in women. We explore leaky gut, microbial imbalances, food sensitivities, and why many menopausal symptoms may start in the gut — not the ovaries. Daniel explains how testing, personalized nutrition, and bioidentical hormone therapy can work together to support long-t
Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy: The Missing Treatment in Women’s Health?
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Bill Pawluk about pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) and how it may support women’s health after menopause. We explore its potential role in reducing inflammation, improving bone density, enhancing ATP production, and supporting cardiovascular and whole-body function. This conversation expands how we think about healthspan — moving beyond symptom manageme
Menopause to Healthspan: Building Muscle, Mind & Metabolism
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Heidi Codino about what many women experience in perimenopause and postmenopause but rarely hear explained. We discuss overlooked symptoms like anxiety and palpitations, the evolving conversation around hormone therapy, and why resistance training and protein are essential for preserving muscle, bone, and brain health, and independence as we age.Dr. Heidi Codino i
How Photobiomodulation Supports Women’s Healthspan
In this episode, I speak with Tess Peterson about photobiomodulation, commonly known as red light therapy, and how it supports healing, pain reduction, and cellular regeneration. Tess shares her personal journey from chronic pain and autoimmune disease to recovery, and we explore how red and near-infrared light stimulate mitochondrial energy, improve tissue repair, and support women navigating per
Feeling Dizzy After Standing or Eating? It Might Be Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure can cause dizziness, falls, and fainting—learn the causes, symptoms, and practical steps to manage hypotension safely.In this episode, I walk you through what low blood pressure is, why it happens, and why it matters—especially as we age. We explore common causes like medications, dehydration, standing up too quickly, and even eating meals. I explain symptoms such as dizziness,
The New Blood Pressure Numbers Every Woman Should Know
Learn why optimal blood pressure is now lower than before and how managing it after menopause reduces heart disease and dementia risk.In this episode, I focus on high blood pressure and why it matters so much for women after midlife. I explain why “normal” blood pressure is now considered lower than it used to be, how hypertension often has no symptoms, and why it dramatically increases the risk o
How Your OB History Shapes Your Health After Menopause
How pregnancy complications like hypertension and diabetes predict women’s long-term health risks—and what to do now to protect your healthspan.In this episode, I’m joined by recently retired OB-GYN Diane Ryan to explore why your reproductive history matters long after menopause. We discuss how pregnancy complications like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, PCOS, and missed periods can pre
Stroke, Dementia, and Menopause: What Every Woman Over 55 Must Know
Dr. Pat McShane explains stroke, TIA warning signs, and how viral infections may increase dementia risk in postmenopausal women.In this episode, I break down recent medical reports on stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), and dementia risk in postmenopausal women. I explain why one in five women over 55 will experience a stroke, how most strokes are preventable, and what warning signs should ne
The Effects of Long-Term Hormone Therapy for Midlife Women
Learn when and how to stop hormone therapy, the real risks and benefits, and what research shows about menopause, aging, and long-term health.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Nanette Santoro to discuss how long women can safely use hormone therapy and how to approach tapering off. We explore how age, duration, and hormone type affect risk, what the Women’s Health Initiative and SWAN studies have
The Loneliness Epidemic: A Hidden Threat to Women’s Health
Loneliness affects up to 40% of adults over 60 and increases risks for heart disease, dementia, depression, and early death—learn why connection matters.In this episode, I explore the growing epidemic of loneliness and social isolation and why it has become a serious health risk for women after midlife. We look at how loneliness impacts the brain, immune system, stress hormones, and chronic diseas
Menopause, Adrenal Burnout, and the Missing Root Cause
How adrenal depletion, gut health, and hormone imbalance shape menopause—and why root-cause care matters more than symptom control.In this episode, I speak with Dr. Joanna Maytree about menopause through a functional and integrative lens. We explore how chronic stress, adrenal depletion, gut health, and hormone metabolism shape women’s health long before symptoms appear. Dr. Maytree explains why u
The Brain Fog Fix: Sleep, Gut Health & Amino Acids for Menopause
Discover how inflammation, sleep, gut health, and amino acids impact brain fog, mood, and identity during menopause — and how to restore balance naturally.----In this episode, I talk with Laurie Hammer about the brain changes many women face during menopause — from fog and anxiety to feeling disconnected or “not themselves.” We explore how inflammation, sleep quality, gut health, movement, and ami
The Eye-Health Blueprint for Women Over 40
Discover how to protect your vision after 40 as Dr. Rani Banik shares functional and medical strategies for preventing cataracts, dry eye, glaucoma, and more.----In this episode, I talk with Dr. Rani Banik about what really happens to our eyes as we age and why women over 40 face higher risks for cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye, and vision decline. She explains how lifestyle, diet, hormones, UV expos
Why Vegetarians Face Higher Hip Fracture Risk
New research reveals why vegetarians face a higher hip fracture risk and what women can do to protect bone health with diet, exercise, and fall prevention.----In this episode, I break down new research showing that vegetarians have a higher risk of hip fracture and why nutrients like protein, calcium, and key minerals matter for bone strength. I explain the major risk factors women face as they ag
Inside Direct Primary Care: A Better Way to Practice and Receive Care
Discover how Dr. Clint Carter uses personalized medicine, hormones, and lifestyle care to transform women’s health in midlife and beyond.----In this episode, I speak with Dr. Clint Carter about his journey from ER burnout to building a direct primary care practice that gives patients time, access, and personalized support. We explore hormone therapy, thyroid health, toxins, lifestyle medicine, and
What’s Your Brain Care Magic? How to Prevent Dementia Before It Starts
Discover how Dr. Pat McShane’s 21-point Brain Score helps women reduce dementia risk through lifestyle and preventive brain health strategies.----In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, I dive into the science of dementia prevention and introduce the 21-point Brain Score—a simple test that helps you assess your brain health. We’ll explore how everyday habits like diet, exercise, and alcohol
Waist-to-Hip Ratio: The Overlooked Measure of Women’s Metabolic Health
Find out how waist-to-hip ratio reveals hidden metabolic risks and why it’s a more accurate measure of women’s health than BMI.----Dr. Pat McShane explores why BMI doesn’t tell the full story of women’s health. She reveals how waist-to-hip ratio offers a clearer picture of metabolic risk, inflammation, and internal fat distribution—especially in postmenopausal women. Learn how to measure it, what
Beyond the Kegel: Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Discover how pelvic floor therapy, pessaries, and lifestyle strength training can restore function and confidence in women with pelvic organ prolapse.----Dr. Pat McShane brings together pelvic health experts Dr. Ellie Allen and Dr. Rochelle Bernstein to demystify pelvic organ prolapse—a condition affecting millions of women. They explore what happens when the pelvic floor weakens, how physical the
From Fertility to Menopause: The Lifelong Impact of PCOS
In this episode, Dr. Pat McShane explores how polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects women long after their fertility years are over. She discusses new research showing that women with PCOS remain at greater risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease after menopause, but also enjoy some bone-strength benefits. Tune in to learn how to stay proactive and maintain long-term health.Dr
The Sunshine Vitamin: Why Vitamin D Is Key to Women’s Healthspan
In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, Dr. Pat McShane explores the essential role of vitamin D in women’s overall health. From stronger bones to sharper minds, she explains how a deficiency in this “sunshine vitamin” increases risks of heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and dementia. Drawing from new research, Dr. McShane shares practical ways to measure, maintain, and optimize your vita
Mind Your Muscle
Discover why the muscle is your most vital organ for aging well—and how protein and resistance training protect women’s healthspan.-----In this episode of Women’s Healthspan Voices, I explore why muscle is the body’s most underrated organ. You’ll learn how skeletal muscle acts as an endocrine system powerhouse—regulating metabolism, glucose, and even brain function. I’ll share practical ways to pr
Too Many Medications?
In this episode, Dr. Pat McShane explains how multiple medications can undermine women’s healthspan. She highlights the dangers of side effects, why deprescribing is often overlooked, and practical steps women can take to review medications, ask the right questions, and explore safer alternatives.-----Dr. McShane is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as reproductive endocrinology
Women’s Healthspan Voices with Dr. Pat McShane
In this first episode of The Women’s Healthspan Voices Podcast, Dr. Pat McShane explains the critical difference between lifespan and healthspan — and why quality of life matters more than just years lived. She explores the most common health challenges women face in later life and highlights proven strategies like better sleep, diet, exercise, and social connection to help extend your years of vi
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