623. How to Balance Postpartum Hormones & Irregular Cycles

Gina Mundy is an attorney that specializes in childbirth cases. For over two decades, she has analyzed the mistakes that are made during labor and delivery. Drawing on this knowledge, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby.  Rather than merely getting involved after an unfortunate mistake was made, Gina has taken a proactive approach by getting involved before childbirth.   Throughout her career Gina has traveled nationwide, engaging with healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and midwives to explore all aspects of labor and delivery. These interactions have provided her with invaluable insights, enabling her to appreciate the diverse perspectives prevalent in different regions of the country. Meeting with experts from various states, she has explored and analyzed the myriad of issues that can arise during labor and delivery, impacting both mother and baby.  Gina has conducted extensive research, meticulously analyzing, and dissecting countless studies pertaining to childbirth. This rigorous process was essential in equipping her with the necessary knowledge to undertake lengthy cross-examinations of a diverse array of experts. Through these examinations, she skillfully discerns their opinions on the errors that have occurred during labor and delivery. This has sharpened her knowledge allowing her to become highly proficient in the nuances of childbirth. In her capacity as legal counsel, Gina has closely worked with delivery teams whose care has been questioned following adverse outcomes. She has spent thousands of hours meticulously scrutinizing cases, conducting interviews with delivery teams, and thoroughly examining medical records to gain an in-depth understanding of every decision made during labor and delivery. Website: www.ginamundy.com Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ Instagram: @GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/ Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329 Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/ Twitter: @ginamundy_  https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_  

Therapy isn't just about sorting through emotions; it impacts hormones and your body chemistry! I've experienced this firsthand over the past decade. Confronting the tough stuff, like stress-induced physical symptoms, led me to therapy. Through modalities like EMDR, I began rewiring my brain and addressing deep-rooted trauma, gradually regaining control over my body and mind. Years later, I'm now facing some new challenges, therapy once again became my lifeline. This time, it's about rebuilding physical strength and managing autoimmune flare-ups. As I unpacked my stress and mental challenges, I noticed a positive shift in my hormones. Therapy isn't necessarily the easy way out, but it's so often overlooked on the hormone journey. Let this be a sign to give therapy a try. I've become a bit of a therapy junkie myself - listen to the episode for all the deets!    Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected] 

Tracy, a new mom, shares her struggles with irregular menstrual cycles, low prolactin, and low progesterone levels since giving birth to her son two years ago. This conversation covers a range of topics from breastfeeding to gut health, and how new mother's can support their hormones.  Key topics:  Nutrient Depletion: We discuss how hormonal imbalances could be due to nutrient depletion postpartum Gut Health: Gut health is linked to hormone balance - I recommend focusing on reducing sugar and processed foods to support gut health. Breastfeeding and Menstruation: Tracy's irregular menstrual cycles could be related to genetics and breastfeeding. Things often don't adjust until after the baby is weaned!  Balanced Diet and Supplements: It's important to prioritize protein intake, stay hydrated, get quality sleep, and use mineral supplements like Shilajit to replenish the body.  Patience and Incremental Changes: Be patient and focus on making small, sustainable changes over time rather than expecting immediate results.  Setting Goals: We also discuss setting realistic goals and benchmarks.  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02

You’ve tried every diet out there and followed it to a “T”. But the belly fat won’t budge. And the symptoms won’t go away. That’s because your nutrition is not aligned with your hormone cycle! Yes, I’m looking at you too, ladies in menopause! Here’s what we cover in this episode:  The female hormone cycle, basal body temperature and how nutrition helps The estrogen phase and cooling foods The progesterone phase and warming foods Recommendations for getting started  By nourishing your body with the right foods at the right times, you’re laying the foundation for long term hormone balance. I've got a free guide to help you get started: Getting Started Guide

In this episode, I discuss strategies for reducing stress and avoiding panic attacks with Christianna, a grad student balancing work and life. We talk about the importance of scheduling breaks, focusing on nutrition, and using adaptogens like ashwagandha. Christianna shares her struggles with managing Hashimoto's, PCOS, and endometriosis, and the overwhelm that comes with it all. We explore ways to integrate self-care into a busy schedule and acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your own health.  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02

It’s time for a personal update! While I usually focus on health education, I wanted to share a bit more about my personal life because that’s where we all get the most support right? The lives of other women battling the same things we are.  Recently, my dad landed in the hospital. It was a serious deal - respiratory failure, sepsis, the works. Easter plans? Canceled. Instead, we visited Dad in the ICU, hooked up to all the machines - honestly, it hit me harder than I expected.  It’s been weeks of hospital visits, canceled plans, and emotional whiplash. But amidst the chaos, I've been reminded of a thing or two. Healing isn't linear, ladies. And I've had to cut myself some slack, dialing down the perfectionism.  Grab a cup of coffee and join me for the full update!  Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected]   

In this episode, I had a chat with Erika who shared her struggles dealing with postpartum health issues, like a painful fibroid and PMS. Erica has been frustrated because her doctors weren't really listening to her concerns. They kept pushing birth control and ibuprofen as a quick fix, ignoring her struggles.  I kept thinking to myself, I've been there too.  Advocating for yourself and finding a healthcare provider who really listens to you is ESSENTIAL. I talked through some practical tools like seed cycling and tinctures to help balance her hormones and reduce inflammation. We also talked about how to approach doctors who aren't being helpful. Here is your permission to be firm about what tests you need and to stand up for yourself if you are being ignored or gaslight. Click play to join the conversation!  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02

Where are my married ladies?! Really, this applies to any long term relationship...  My husband and I have been together for over 20 years and our relationship has seen some high highs and low lows. My health journey has been greatly impacted by these seasons and I am sure you can relate.  There is an extreme significance in having a supportive partner when working towards your health goals. And you better believe it applies to the opposite as well, more on that below.  I believe that a supportive partner can make a world of difference in helping a woman reach their healthiest selves. There are significant challenges women face when they have unsupportive partners, as it can create obstacles along the way.  I am talking about things like ortisol/stress issues, time management issues, sabotage and more...  In this episode, I share personal stories and examples from my clinical practice where husbands/partners either actively support their wives' health journey or hinder it. I also dive into how some women manage to push forward with their health goals despite unsupportive partners, while others may find it more difficult. This is your sign to look for potential red flags in relationships that can impede health progress, such as partners who try to use control to keep you from getting healthier.  I want women facing these challenges to know you are not alone and there are a number of ways to seek support.  This is actually something that many of my personal clients navigate during our work together. If you'd like to know more about my upcoming Hormone Solution program, join the waitlist here: https://drbethwestie.com/fhs-waitlist/ Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

In this episode, I am joined my Dr. Morgan to discuss all things related to relationships and attachment style!  Dr. Morgan Anderson is a clinical psychologist and relationship coach, host of the “Let’s Get Vulnerable” podcast and creator of the E.S.L relationship method. She helps women break the toxic dating cycle, raise their self-worth and attract the healthy relationship they’ve always wanted. She’s on Instagram @drmorgancoaching, and make sure you head over to her page to say hello!   Take the Relationship Style Quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/5e77d82d29386e001428f8f1 Find Dr. Morgan:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-get-vulnerable-relationship-and-dating-advice/id1496034764 Instagram: @drmorgancoaching

In case you didn't know, I struggled with extreme PMS symptoms and PCOS. I was on the floor in my chiropractic clinic after a cyst burst and my husband had to literally pick me up and take me home. It can be a long journey to work with hormone issues, but I'm here to tell you that it really can be done and there are thousands of women who are committing to doing the work and sharing their stories.  I wanted to share this case study with you, because I find that the journey of other women with similar symptoms can be the best encouragement and inspiration. I've been working with this individual for a YEAR and it's a big change from the 30 year old who was so desperate she was willing to remove her uterus entirely.  This episode covers her back story, the work we did together and how she feels and functions today. Click play if you need some inspiration today!  Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected]