Category: Hormone Health

When Periods Pause: Understanding Hypothalamic Amenorrhea with The Period Nutritionist Cynthia Donovan (Ep. 52)

When Periods Pause: Understanding Hypothalamic Amenorrhea with The Period Nutritionist Cynthia Donovan (Ep. 52)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of The Med Edit Podcast, Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell shine a light on a condition that affects countless women — but is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed entirely: Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HA).

HA occurs when the brain senses that the body isn’t in a safe or nourished enough state to sustain a menstrual cycle. It accounts for nearly 30% of secondary amenorrhea in reproductive-age women, yet many don’t realize their missing period is a medical red flag, not an inconvenience.

To break it all down, we’re joined by Cynthia Donovan, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Health Coach, founder of Recipe for a Period, and host of The Period Recovery Podcast. Known online as The Period Nutritionist, Cynthia specializes in helping women restore their periods through nutrition, mindset, and sustainable lifestyle changes.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
1️⃣ What Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Is
How the hypothalamus controls reproduction
Why periods stop when the brain perceives stress or energy deficiency
Common misconceptions (no — this isn’t an “ovary problem”)
2️⃣ What Causes HA
Low energy availability (undereating, overtraining, or both)
Psychological stress, burnout, chronic pressure
Perfectionism and “wellness culture” influences
Why body size alone does not determine who gets HA
3️⃣ HA vs. PCOS — What’s the Difference?
Why missing periods should never be ignored
How to distinguish between two commonly confused conditions
Why identifying the root cause is essential for long-term health
4️⃣ Health Consequences of HA
Missing your period affects far more than fertility. Cynthia highlights risks like:

Bone loss and osteoporosis
Low hormone levels
Metabolic changes
Thyroid disruption
Mood and energy impacts
5️⃣ The Path to Recovery
Increasing energy intake
Reducing high-intensity exercise
Rest and nervous system regulation
Breaking perfectionistic or restrictive habits
How to “redefine health” outside of diet culture

6️⃣ What Period Recovery Looks Like
Cynthia shares:

Nutrition strategies for restoring a healthy cycle
Day-to-day adjustments clients make
What realistic timelines look like
How her programs support women through the process

7️⃣ Fact or Mis(information)
Rapid-fire myth-busting on:

“Losing your period is normal if you’re fit.”
“Only underweight women get HA.”
“Your period returns immediately once you eat more.”
“HA only impacts reproductive health.”

Resources Mentioned
Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline on HA
Cleveland Clinic: Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Guide
PMC Articles on HA & metabolic impacts
@period.nutritionist on Instagram
The Period Recovery Podcast

Continuing Medical Education (CME)
Clinicians — claim your CME credit for listening!

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

Connect with us!
https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

Are Mammograms a Scam? The Real Truth on Breast Health with Dr. Robyn Roth (Ep. 46)

Are Mammograms a Scam? The Real Truth on Breast Health with Dr. Robyn Roth (Ep. 46)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this eye-opening episode of The Med Edit Podcast, we tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health: breast cancer screening. From mammograms to MRIs, biopsies to breast density — there’s a lot of noise online right now, and we’re here to set the record straight with the help of one of the most trusted voices in breast imaging: Dr. Robyn Roth, aka @theboobiedocs.

In this episode, Dr. Roth breaks down:

  • What the current breast cancer screening guidelines really say
  • The truth about mammograms (do they hurt? can they cause cancer?)
  • Why breast MRIs and contrast mammography are gaining ground
  • How to calculate your personal breast cancer risk
  • Breast screening recommendations for women with implants
  • What to expect after an abnormal screening result
  • Why breast cancer in young women is rising—and what you can do about it

Dr. Roth also shares her personal breast health scare and how it’s impacted her approach to patient care.

Whether you’re due for a mammogram, high-risk, or simply breast health curious—this episode is your trusted, evidence-based companion.

Hosted by Dr. Jessica Gray & Dr. Cari Sorrell

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @themededitpodcast

Guest: Dr. Robyn Roth | @theboobiedocs | Host of The Girlfriends Guide to Breast Cancer Podcast

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Resources:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20there%20were%202.3,71%20women%20die%20of%20it

The Silent Burden of Menopause: Understanding Genitourinary Syndrome (GSM) (Ep. 41)

The Silent Burden of Menopause: Understanding Genitourinary Syndrome (GSM) (Ep. 41)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

50–70% of women experience genitourinary symptoms during menopause—but most don’t talk about it. In this episode of The Med Edit Podcast, Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell sit down with returning guest and urology expert, Nurse Practitioner Kristen Sharma, to shine a light on this often-overlooked issue.

They break down:

  • What GSM is and why it happens
  • How it’s diagnosed and treated (both hormonal and non-hormonal options)
  • Risk factors, including breast cancer survivorship
  • Why hormone therapy is still so misunderstood
  • Whether laser and energy-based treatments are worth the hype
  • And some myth-busting in a fun round of “Fact or Mis”

If you’re navigating menopause—or caring for someone who is—this is the episode you don’t want to miss.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Men’s Health Matters: Prostate & Testicular Cancer, Forever Chemicals, and Screening Truths | w/ Dr. Pranav Sharma (Ep.40)

Men’s Health Matters: Prostate & Testicular Cancer, Forever Chemicals, and Screening Truths | w/ Dr. Pranav Sharma (Ep.40)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

n this powerful episode of The Med Edit Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell sit down with men’s health expert and urologist Dr. Pranav Sharma to discuss two of the most common—and often misunderstood—male cancers: prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

From President Biden’s recent diagnosis to the rising awareness of PFAS “forever chemicals” and their connection to cancer, this episode breaks down:

  • The prostate: what it is, what it does, and when it becomes a concern
  • PSA screening controversies and updated guidelines
  • How to detect testicular cancer early (especially in younger men)
  • What the latest research says about PFAS exposure and cancer risk
  • Medical myths like “tight underwear causes cancer” and “prostate cancer always causes symptoms”

Dr. Sharma also shares must-hear tips for men (and those who love them) about early detection, when to screen, and how to advocate for your health.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Endo Is Real: Debunking Myths & Managing Endometriosis with Dr. Lawren Honken (Ep.39)

Endo Is Real: Debunking Myths & Managing Endometriosis with Dr. Lawren Honken (Ep.39)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this powerful episode of The Med Edit Podcast, hosts Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell are joined by board-certified OB/GYN and social media educator Dr. Lawren Honken (@yourfriendtheobgyn) for a deeply validating and evidence-based conversation on endometriosis.

From delayed diagnoses and painful periods to fertility struggles and misinformation on social media, we cover:

  • What endometriosis actually is (and isn’t)
  • Why it often takes years to diagnose
  • Surgical vs. non-surgical treatment options
  • The truth about hormonal birth control, diet, and supplements
  • Common myths like “pregnancy cures endo” (spoiler: it doesn’t)

Whether you’re living with endo, suspect you might be, or just want to understand this under-discussed condition better—this episode is for you.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Breaking Down Scleroderma & the Truth About Complementary Medicine, Featuring Dr. Taylor Warmoth (Ep 38)

Breaking Down Scleroderma & the Truth About Complementary Medicine, Featuring Dr. Taylor Warmoth (Ep 38)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of The Med Edit Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell welcome back fan-favorite rheumatologist Dr. Taylor Warmoth to honor Scleroderma Awareness Month.

Part 1: We take a deep dive into scleroderma—a rare but serious autoimmune disease that can affect nearly every organ system in the body. From symptoms to diagnosis to treatment and research breakthroughs, Dr. Warmoth explains it all.

Part 2: With the booming $1.7 trillion complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) market, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Dr. Warmoth joins us to explore:

Herbal therapies like turmeric, boswellia, and ashwagandha
Mind-body practices such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture
Diet, supplements, and anti-inflammatory approaches
What’s hype vs. what’s helpful
Whether you’re a healthcare professional or curious patient, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to navigate the growing world of integrative care.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

The Skinny on Weightloss: Part Deux (Ep. 35)

The Skinny on Weightloss: Part Deux (Ep. 35)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In Episode 35 of The Med Edit Podcast, hosts Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell welcome back Dr. Ann Bass, a board-certified expert in Obesity Medicine, to continue their insightful discussion about healthy weight management. Due to an overwhelming response from listeners, Dr. Bass returns to answer pressing questions and address popular concerns related to weight loss, body composition, and GLP-1 medications.

This episode covers:

  • Body Composition 101: Why body composition, not just weight, is crucial for overall health, and how to accurately measure yours using methods like DEXA scans, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis, and more.
  • Ideal Body Composition Ranges: Understand the healthy ranges for fat and muscle mass and why they matter.
  • Exercise Recommendations for Adults: Practical guidelines from aerobic activity to strength and flexibility training, and why physical activity is key to long-term health.
  • Muscle Loss & GLP-1 Medications: Clarifying misconceptions about GLP-1s and lean body mass loss, along with strategies to protect muscle during weight loss.

In the popular “FACT or MIS” segment, Dr. Bass debunks viral myths on meal frequency and vitamin supplements.

Tune in to separate fact from fiction and take informed steps toward reaching your health goals.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

 

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

References from today’s episode:

https://www.obesityaction.org/education-support/learn-about-obesity/common-myths/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4229150/

https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/adult-obesity-facts/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood-obesity-facts/childhood-obesity-facts.html

https://www.abom.org/history/

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235943/#:~:text=Body%20composition%2C%20in%20the%20context,be%20used%20interchangeably%20with%20LBM.

How to Get Pregnant & Stay Pregnant: Expert Fertility Insights with Dr. Jessica Ryniec (Ep. 34)

How to Get Pregnant & Stay Pregnant: Expert Fertility Insights with Dr. Jessica Ryniec (Ep. 34)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In Episode 34 of The Med Edit Podcast, Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell dive deep into the complex and personal topic of infertility. With 13.4% of women aged 15-49 experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant, fertility issues are more common than many realize—and disproportionately impact female physicians.

This week, they’re joined by fertility expert Dr. Jessica Ryniec, a double board-certified specialist in obstetrics, gynecology, reproductive endocrinology, and infertility. Together, they unpack the essentials of how to get pregnant, stay pregnant, and navigate the emotional and medical complexities of infertility.

Topics covered include:

  • The detailed science behind conception
  • Understanding fertility tests and assessments (AMH, hormonal levels, ultrasounds)
  • Common infertility causes in women (PCOS, endometriosis, ovulation issues) and men (varicocele, hormonal imbalances)
  • Treatments available (Clomid, letrozole, IUI, IVF)
  • Managing recurrent miscarriages and ensuring healthy pregnancies
  • Debunking infertility myths (from birth control myths to dietary folklore)

Tune in to separate fact from fiction in fertility, learn proactive steps to take if you’re struggling to conceive, and gain evidence-based guidance on maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Don’t miss the engaging “FACT or MIS (misinformation)” segment in the second half—where Dr. Ryniec addresses popular myths circulated by social media influencers.

Listen, subscribe, and empower yourself with knowledge to navigate your fertility journey confidently.

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell:

https://themededitpodcast.com/

Instagram: @TheMedEditPodcast: https://www.instagram.com/themededitpodcast/

Facebook: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: The Med Edit Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themededitpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Jessica Gray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Jessica-gray-md/

LinkedIn: Dr. Cari Sorrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-sorrell-42545a7b/

 

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

Continuing Medical Education Credit:

https://cmetracker.net/TTUHSC/Publisher?page=pubOpen&nc=7120399723#/myPortal

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

References from today’s episode:

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr202.pdf#:~:text=Among%20all%20women%2C%2013.4%%20of%20women%20ages,ages%2015%E2%80%9349%20in%202015%E2%80%932019%2C%207.8%%20had%20infertility.

https://www.ccrmivf.com/infertility-in-men/

https://www.ccrmivf.com/infertility-in-women/

https://www.ccrmivf.com/services/recurrent-miscarriage/

https://www.ccrmivf.com/ccrmtv/

https://www.ccrmivf.com/services/fertility-testing/

Navigating PCOS: Understanding, Managing, and Thriving (Ep. 24)

Navigating PCOS: Understanding, Managing, and Thriving (Ep. 24)

By |

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

In this episode of Navigating PCOS, we explore everything you need to know about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) — from the signs and symptoms to effective management strategies.

Join medical experts Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell as we break down how PCOS affects hormones, fertility, and overall health. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are looking for ways to better manage your condition, this episode provides essential insights and practical tips for thriving with PCOS. Tune in to take control of your health and live your best life!

Connect with Dr. Jessica Gray and Dr. Cari Sorrell: 

 

⚕️Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and The Med Edit Podcast. Texas Tech University Health Science Center is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.