Pain Alchemy

Ozempic, Mounjaro, and the viral grey-market “Reta” are everywhere in endo forums, but what do they actually do for endometriosis, PMOS, and fertility? In this episode, I cut through the hype with a clear-eyed breakdown of the science, the risks, and why some of the most exciting online claims are still running ahead of the evidence.As a clinical naturopath living with endometriosis, PMOS, interstitial cystitis, and vulvodynia, I know why these drugs can feel so tempting when you’ve spent years searching for relief. But this conversation isn’t about shame or fearmongering. It’s about giving you the facts so you can make safer choices, ask better questions, and avoid getting burned by forum advice or unregulated injections.You’ll hear me explain:What GLP-1s are and how semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide differWhy the strongest human evidence so far is in PMOS, especially around insulin resistance, ovulation, testosterone, and cycle regularityWhat researchers have found so far in endometriosis, including immune signaling, inflammation, fibrosis, and pelvic fluid studiesWhy the online buzz around “Reta” is especially risky, from illegal supply chains to contamination, incorrect doses, and adverse reactionsWhat to ask your doctor before considering a GLP-1, including questions about pregnancy, contraception, medication timing, and red-flag side effects.I also talk about why this conversation matters so much for people with endometriosis and PMOS: these conditions are often dismissed, appetite suppression can be risky for people with a history of restrictive eating, and quick fixes can distract from the deeper drivers of pain. If you’ve seen these drugs recommended as a miracle solution, I offer a grounded, evidence-based reality check.This episode is for anyone with endometriosis or PMOS, anyone considering a GLP-1, or anyone who wants to know what’s real before trusting the [email protected]:Krasnyi et al. (2022). GLP-1 and other factors decreased in peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci. doi.org/10.3390/ijms231810361Hoteit et al. (2025). The dual impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on metabolic and reproductive health in PCOS. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. doi.org/10.1177/20420188251383064Sola-Leyva et al. (2025). The hidden impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on endometrial receptivity and implantation. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. doi.org/10.1111/aogs.15010Teede et al. (2026). Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, the new name for polycystic ovary syndrome: a multistep global consensus process. The Lancet. Overview of the renameRetatrutide and safetyVictorian Health Alert: toxicity linked to products labelled retatrutideABC: unregulated peptides sold on Facebook MarketplaceABC: torn oesophagus case and TGA warning

You had the surgery. You were told they got it all. So why does it still hurt?Between a quarter and a third of women still have significant pain after endometriosis surgery. If that’s you, you’re not imagining it, and it doesn’t automatically mean your surgery failed or your endo is back.In this episode, I explain why the lesions are only one part of the pain picture. After years of pain, your nerves, organs, pelvic floor and nervous system all adapt, and surgery doesn’t automatically reset them.You’ll learn:The physical causes to rule out firstHow nerves can keep inflammation going after the lesions are goneWhy bladder, bowel and sexual pain so often show up with endoHow pelvic floor dysfunction keeps pain goingWhy surgery doesn’t retrain a sensitised nervous systemThe gaps in post-surgery care, and how to fill them yourself.Plus practical tools you can start today: a guided pelvic floor release, toilet positioning tips, simple ways to calm your nervous system, and the questions to take to your next appointment.This episode is for education only and is not medical advice. Please speak with your surgeon or GP about your individual situation.

Been offered Mirena for endometriosis and left wondering whether it’s right for you? Or already have one and still have questions?This episode unpacks what Mirena may help with, how its hormone works, potential benefits and side effects, and why pain can persist. You’ll also hear what the research says about using it after surgery, and what it cannot promise.Alongside why I personally declined Mirena, we explore the questions worth asking so you can feel more informed and confident in your own decision.Whatever you choose, you deserve to understand your options and have your choice respected.

This one’s a vulnerable share. In today’s episode, I’m unpacking why this episode took so long to come out... spoiler alert: I overdid it, flared up, and had to pause completely.However, what came to mind for me during that time was the guilt. The guilt of resting when I wasn’t in a flare, the guilt of not showing up, and the guilt of falling behind.If you’ve ever pushed through on a “good” pain day, crammed your to-do list into a tiny window of energy, or felt like rest had to be earned… This one’s for you.Inside, I chat about:Why we overdo it when we feel well (with some juicy nervous system & pain science)How survival mode, trauma patterns & dopamine influence this cycleThe boom–bust loop and how to slowly break itMy recent flare and what it taught me about pacing and self-worthAnd how we can reframe rest as a healing tool, not a punishment or a setbackLet’s talk about the messy, human side of healing because this is Pain Alchemy, and we’re not doing perfection here.Come say hi over on Instagram @bethleenaturopath or follow the podcast page @painalchemypodcast to keep the convo going.

In the first episode of Pain Alchemy, Beth shares her personal journey with chronic pain, reflecting on her experiences and the lessons learned as she transitions into her 30s. She emphasises the importance of understanding pain not just as something to endure, but as a transformative experience that can lead to personal growth and empowerment. The podcast aims to create a safe space for open discussions about the complexities of living with chronic pain, including emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. Beth invites listeners to join her on this journey of healing and self-discovery, encouraging them to explore their own pain narratives and find strength in vulnerability.

Welcome to Pain AlchemyHosted by student Naturopath Beth Lee, Pain Alchemy is a podcast for those living with chronic pain who are ready to reclaim their body, reconnect with their spirit, and rewrite the story they've been told about their symptoms.This is not your typical health podcast. Here, we blend science with soul, truth with tenderness, and raw storytelling with real education. Think nervous system chats, taboo topics, emotional honesty, and the kind of insights that make you feel seen.What you’ll hear:​Chronic pain through a personal, practical, and holistic lens​Honest conversations about grief, identity & intimacy​Bite-sized science—pain perception, neuroplasticity, hormones & more​Tools, rituals, & mindset shifts that support healingCome as you are. This space is for you.@bethleenaturopath