Episodes

  • Why Your Hair Is Thinning: Stress, Hormones, GLP-1s & More with Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd

    Why Your Hair Is Thinning: Stress, Hormones, GLP-1s & More with Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd
    Oct 29 2026
    Dermatologist Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd joins SheMD for a comprehensive conversation about why women experience hair thinning, shedding and breakage throughout different stages of life.Dr. Woolery-Lloyd explains how postpartum hormone changes, perimenopause and menopause, stress, PMOS, thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions, nutritional deficiencies and cosmetic damage can all affect hair health.She also breaks down telogen effluvium, a common form of stress-related shedding that can appear 3 to 6 months after a major life event, including childbirth, surgery, illness, divorce or another period of significant stress.We also discuss hair loss in women taking GLP-1 medications and why rapid weight loss, inadequate protein intake and nutritional deficiencies may contribute to increased shedding.Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd walk through the workup and treatment options they use with patients, including lab testing, minoxidil, spironolactone, PRP, light therapy, supplements and lifestyle changes.Plus, we answer common questions about tight hairstyles, extensions, washing, brushing, heat damage and what women should know before starting a hair supplement.If your hair has changed and you do not know why, this episode is a great place to start.SponsorsIT Cosmetics and Smile Set are featured in sponsored advertising segments during this episode.What You’ll LearnWhy hair thinning and shedding can occur at different stages of a woman's life, including postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause.How estrogen fluctuations affect the hair growth cycle and why hormonal changes can contribute to shedding, thinning, and breakage.Why stress, surgery, childbirth, and other major life events can trigger hair shedding three to six months later.The difference between telogen effluvium, female pattern hair loss, and hair breakage, including the signs that may help distinguish them.How PCOS, insulin resistance, and androgen levels can contribute to hair thinning, acne, and unwanted facial or body hair.What current evidence suggests about hair shedding during GLP-1 treatment, including the potential roles of rapid weight loss, inadequate protein intake, and nutritional deficiencies.Why thyroid conditions, iron deficiency, low vitamin D, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications may contribute to hair loss.How tight ponytails, braids, extensions, heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental exposure can damage hair or contribute to thinning.How dermatologists evaluate hair loss through medical history, physical examination, hair-pull testing, blood work, and, when needed, a scalp biopsy.Which treatment options may be considered for different types of hair loss, including minoxidil, anti-inflammatory treatments, light therapy, and PRP.What to look for when choosing a hair supplement, including clinical testing of the finished product, ingredient quality, and independent safety certifications.How protein intake, a balanced diet, and attention to nutritional deficiencies can support hair health.Why hair treatments require patience, with reduced shedding potentially taking months to appear and significant regrowth often taking six months or longer.Practical ways to reduce breakage, including choosing gentler hairstyles, minimizing tugging and pulling, and adjusting hair care to your hair type.Five key takeaways for women experiencing hair changes: seek care early, consider recent stressors, prioritize nutrition, evaluate appropriate supplementation, and give yourself grace.Key Timestamps00:00 Why your hair may be thinning months after a stressful event01:20 How pregnancy, postpartum changes, and menopause affect hair health03:51 Understanding the hair growth cycle04:45 Why hair texture and breakage can change with age05:50 How much daily hair shedding is normal?07:47 Telogen effluvium and stress-related hair loss10:10 Female pattern hair loss and a widening part12:40 Understanding postpartum shedding and recovery14:14 Hair thinning and breakage during perimenopause and menopause15:28 How PCOS and insulin resistance affect hair health17:21 GLP-1 medications, rapid weight loss, and hair shedding19:53 Protein, iron, vitamin D, and other nutritional considerations21:44 Thyroid disease and hair thinning22:21 How tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia24:21 Autoimmune hair loss and alopecia areata28:14 How heat, chemicals, and styling contribute to breakage30:13 Why chemotherapy can cause hair loss32:18 How dermatologists evaluate hair thinning and shedding35:42 Medications that may contribute to hair loss36:31 Treatment options for different types of hair loss40:28 PRP injections and hair regrowth42:14 What to look for in a science-backed hair supplement44:33 Ingredients to consider in hair supplements45:23 Hair care myths: Washing, brushing, and cutting your hair47:28 When to start treatment and how long regrowth takes48:09 Common hair growth myths and whether hats cause hair loss48:59 Dr. Heather's five ...
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    54 mins
  • Fasting for Women: Hormones, Your Cycle & Menopause with Dr. Mindy Pelz

    Fasting for Women: Hormones, Your Cycle & Menopause with Dr. Mindy Pelz
    Oct 27 2026
    Dr. Mindy Pelz joins SheMD for a wide-ranging conversation about fasting, hormones and metabolic health throughout a woman’s life.Mindy explains how her approach to fasting changed after she began seeing women experience symptoms including hair loss, thyroid issues and stalled weight loss when they fasted continuously without taking their menstrual cycle into account.She breaks down how she approaches fasting during different phases of the cycle, why she recommends easing up on fasting before a period, and how those recommendations may change during perimenopause and after menopause.Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mindy also discuss insulin resistance, PCOS, metabolic health, ketones, protein, carbohydrates and the relationship between blood sugar and hormonal symptoms.Mindy explains what she means by “metabolic switching,” how she structures an eating window, why she discourages constant snacking and what she likes women to eat when breaking a fast.Plus, she shares why she sees menopause not as a decline but as an opportunity for women to rethink their health, their brains and the next chapter of their lives.SponsorsProlon: Featured in an advertisement discussing its five-day program, which is described as supporting fat-focused weight loss while protecting lean muscle. The episode includes an offer of 15% off sitewide, plus a $40 bonus gift with a five-day program subscription, at prolonlife.com/gmd.Huel: Featured in an advertisement for Huel Black Edition powder and ready-to-drink meals, highlighting protein, convenience, and nutritional content. The ad mentions 15% off online for new customers with code CMD at huel.com/gmd.Peloton: Featured in an advertisement for the Peloton Tread Flex treadmill, highlighting its foldable design and at-home running, walking, hiking, and training options.Sequencing.com: Featured in an advertisement for whole-genome testing, including information about genetic screening and medication-response insights. The ad mentions up to 10% off a full genome test, plus free shipping, with code GMD at sequencing.com.IT Cosmetics: Featured in an advertisement for the Do-It All Sheer Tint Face Balm, highlighting its skincare ingredients and tinted coverage.What You’ll LearnHow Dr. Mindy Pelz's experience with chronic fatigue influenced her interest in nutrition, lifestyle changes, and women's health.Why she developed a cycle-based approach to fasting and what she observed when women adjusted their fasting routines around their menstrual cycles.How estrogen and progesterone differ in their metabolic roles, including why progesterone is associated with an increased need for glucose.Why the week before menstruation may call for changes to fasting and carbohydrate intake.How fasting strategies may differ for women who are menstruating, perimenopausal, or postmenopausal.What metabolic switching means, how the body uses glucose and ketones for energy, and how fasting relates to this process.How insulin resistance may contribute to metabolic changes associated with PCOS, including weight gain, acne, hair loss, and irregular periods.Why Dr. Mindy emphasizes metabolic health when discussing hormonal symptoms, brain fog, and changes in weight.What autophagy is and how Dr. Mindy describes its role in cellular maintenance and repair.Why food quality, adequate protein, healthy fats, fiber, and less frequent snacking are central to her approach to metabolic health.How to think about fasting duration and timing in relation to menstrual cycles and symptoms such as spotting, anxiety, and insomnia.Why Dr. Mindy describes menopause as an opportunity for reinvention, personal growth, and a new stage of leadership.How changes in estrogen may affect neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, memory, and emotional well-being.How novelty, storytelling, and exposure to natural daylight can support habits associated with cognitive health.What Dr. Mindy recommends considering when breaking a fast, including broth, fiber, protein, and olive oil.Why she believes lifestyle education should be a more central part of conversations about women's hormonal health.Key Timestamps00:00 Why fasting differently may change women's experiences03:13 How lifestyle changes inspired her work in women's health04:40 Why fasting needs to account for women's hormonal cycles05:05 Autophagy and the origins of Dr. Mindy's fasting approach06:30 How the menstrual cycle influenced her approach to fasting08:24 Why fasting strategies may change during perimenopause and menopause10:10 Fasting, cortisol, and changing needs during perimenopause12:58 Insulin resistance, PCOS, and hormonal symptoms14:53 Why weight changes in midlife aren't simply a matter of willpower21:22 Why some women feel better fasting than others23:40 The connection between metabolic health, mood, and PCOS symptoms25:24 How long should women fast?28:42 Why the week before your period may require a different approach30:26 Fasting strategies after menopause31:18 What...
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 6 Breast Changes You Should Never Ignore + Dr. A’s Breast Cancer Story

    6 Breast Changes You Should Never Ignore + Dr. A’s Breast Cancer Story
    Oct 20 2026
    For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi shares her own breast cancer story and the lessons she wants every woman to take from it.Dr. A explains how an abnormal breast biopsy led her to calculate her lifetime breast cancer risk, why she continued pushing for a preventative double mastectomy despite being repeatedly reassured that she was fine, and the shocking pathology result that revealed breast cancer after surgery.She also breaks down six breast changes women should take seriously, including new or persistent breast lumps, skin dimpling, nipple changes, discharge, persistent flaky or scaly skin and changes in the appearance of the breast skin.Dr. A explains the difference between traditional monthly self-exams and breast awareness, why knowing what is normal for your body matters, and when a breast change should prompt a call to your doctor.Plus, we discuss dense breasts, mammograms and ultrasounds, family history, lifetime breast cancer risk, genetic testing, polygenic risk scores and why being young or having no family history does not mean a breast change should be dismissed.This episode is about knowing your risk, noticing changes and becoming your own health advocate.SponsorsOSEA Malibu: The episode features OSEA Malibu’s Undaria Algae Body Oil, a seaweed-infused body oil designed to moisturize skin and promote a healthy-looking glow. Use code CMD for 10% off your first order.Gusto: Featured in a sponsored segment about simplifying payroll, tax filings, HR, and employee benefits for small businesses. The episode promotes three months of free payroll for eligible new customers.Peloton: Featured in a sponsored segment introducing the Tread Flex treadmill and discussing accessible running, walking, hiking, and at-home fitness.David Protein: Featured in a sponsored segment highlighting the brand's high-protein bars, including its Gold and Bronze product lines. The episode promotes a buy-four-cartons-get-the-fifth-free offer.What You’ll LearnHow Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi discovered that her lifetime breast cancer risk was significantly higher than expected, despite having no family history or known major genetic mutations.Why atypical lobular hyperplasia can increase breast cancer risk and why understanding biopsy results matters when evaluating your personal risk.How Dr. Aliabadi's experience with preventive mastectomy ultimately led to an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis.Why breast cancer concerns can be dismissed in healthcare settings and how patients can advocate for further evaluation when something does not feel right.The six breast changes that warrant medical attention: a new or persistent lump, skin dimpling or other skin changes, nipple discharge, newly inverted nipples, persistent crusting or scaling of the nipple, and unusual redness or discoloration.The difference between routine self-breast examinations and breast awareness, including why it is important to recognize what is normal for your own body.How family history, breast density, previous biopsies, hormonal history, and other factors can contribute to an individual's breast cancer risk assessment.What the Tyrer-Cuzick risk assessment tool evaluates and how a lifetime risk estimate can help inform conversations about screening.Why dense breast tissue can both increase breast cancer risk and make abnormalities more difficult to identify on a mammogram.How 3D mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI may be used in screening plans, depending on individual risk and clinical guidance.What genetic testing can reveal about inherited breast cancer risk, including mutations in genes such as BRCA.What polygenic risk scores measure and how numerous genetic variants may contribute to breast cancer risk even when a person does not have a major known genetic mutation.Why breast implants do not eliminate the need for appropriate breast awareness and screening.Why new or persistent breast changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even in younger women or those without a family history of breast cancer.Key Timestamps00:00 Why women's breast cancer concerns can be dismissed00:31 Six breast changes every woman should know01:09 Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi's personal breast cancer journey01:42 Understanding atypical lobular hyperplasia04:34 Why Dr. Aliabadi decided to take action07:55 Searching for a surgeon who would listen09:58 The complications of preventive surgery16:10 The unexpected breast cancer diagnosis18:54 Finding purpose after a life-changing diagnosis21:50 The six breast changes that warrant medical attention23:33 Understanding what is normal for your breasts24:37 Breast self-exams versus breast awareness27:04 Why every woman should understand her personal risk28:20 Using the Tyrer-Cuzick tool to estimate lifetime risk30:22 How family history influences screening recommendations34:01 Understanding average, intermediate, and high-risk categories37:04 Why dense breasts can make cancer harder to detect39:10 Why ...
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    53 mins
  • Why Women Sleep Worse in Perimenopause with Eight Sleep's Alexandra Zatarain

    Why Women Sleep Worse in Perimenopause with Eight Sleep's Alexandra Zatarain
    Oct 15 2026
    Why does sleep suddenly become so much harder for so many women in their 30s, 40s and 50s?Eight Sleep cofounder Alexandra Zatarain joins SheMD to explore how hormones, temperature and the brain’s natural circadian rhythm affect the way women sleep throughout different stages of life.Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi explains why fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause can contribute to night sweats, temperature changes, anxiety, racing thoughts and middle-of-the-night wake-ups.Alexandra shares what years of sleep research and data have taught the Eight Sleep team about deep sleep, REM sleep, temperature regulation, pregnancy, menopause and recovery.We also break down how much sleep adults actually need, why consistency matters and why alcohol, caffeine and late-night exercise may interfere with recovery even when you are technically getting enough hours.Plus, Alexandra shares five practical habits she recommends for better sleep and helps us tackle common sleep myths, including whether you can really catch up on lost sleep over the weekend and whether a nightcap actually helps you sleep.If your sleep has changed and you cannot figure out why, this episode is for you.SponsorsEight Sleep is featured in this episode through a conversation with co-founder Alexandra Zatarain about sleep science and the company’s sleep technology. No formal sponsorship or promotional offer is mentioned.What You’ll LearnHow Alexandra Zatarain's personal experiences inspired the creation of Eight Sleep and its approach to improving sleep through technology.Why perimenopause and menopause can disrupt sleep, including the roles of fluctuating estrogen, declining progesterone, night sweats, and anxiety.How body temperature and circadian rhythms influence when we fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up.Why pregnancy and postpartum hormonal changes can affect temperature regulation, snoring, and sleep quality.The differences between deep sleep and REM sleep, and why both are essential for physical recovery, memory, and emotional processing.How much sleep adults generally need, why individual sleep requirements vary, and how to recognize whether you're getting enough rest.Why alcohol may make it easier to fall asleep while negatively affecting overnight recovery.Why catching up on sleep over the weekend cannot fully compensate for consistently getting too little sleep during the week.How sleep-tracking technology can help monitor sleep patterns, recovery, temperature preferences, and potential signs of sleep apnea.Five practical ways to improve sleep, including prioritizing sufficient rest, maintaining a consistent schedule, optimizing your sleep environment, adjusting daily habits, and working with your partner.Why women experiencing persistent sleep disruptions should consider underlying factors, including hormonal changes and other health conditions, with guidance from a healthcare provider.Key TakeawaysSleep is a foundational pillar of health. Prioritizing exercise and nutrition while consistently sacrificing sleep can undermine overall well-being. Making enough time for rest is an essential part of supporting long-term health.Hormonal changes can significantly disrupt women's sleep. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause may contribute to temperature sensitivity, night sweats, anxiety, and nighttime awakenings. Persistent sleep difficulties deserve attention rather than being dismissed as an inevitable part of aging.Temperature plays an important role in sleep. Core body temperature naturally declines as we approach sleep and rises toward morning. A comfortable, cool sleeping environment can support this process, although individual temperature preferences vary.Deep sleep and REM sleep serve different but complementary functions. Deep sleep is associated with physical restoration, while REM sleep supports processes involving memory, learning, and emotional processing. Getting sufficient sleep allows the body to cycle through both.Alcohol can interfere with overnight recovery. Although alcohol may help someone fall asleep more quickly, it can affect recovery metrics, including resting heart rate and heart rate variability. Falling asleep faster does not necessarily mean sleeping well.Consistency matters as much as duration. Maintaining relatively consistent bedtimes and wake-up times can support the body's circadian rhythm. Alexandra recommends aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep for most adults while paying attention to individual needs.Sleep quality can be affected by more than personal habits. Snoring, possible sleep apnea, hormonal changes, stress, and a partner's sleep patterns can all contribute to disrupted rest. Persistent symptoms may warrant evaluation by a healthcare professional.Small, sustainable changes can improve sleep habits. Gradually extending sleep time, keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, limiting late-day caffeine and alcohol, and avoiding ...
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    43 mins
  • Naomi Watts on Menopause, Desire & Having Better Sex

    Naomi Watts on Menopause, Desire & Having Better Sex
    Oct 13 2026
    Naomi Watts joins SheMD alongside renowned sexual arousal researcher Dr. Cindy Meston for a candid conversation about sex, desire and what happens to women’s bodies during perimenopause and menopause.Naomi shares her experience learning in her 30s that she was likely entering early menopause, the shame and isolation she initially felt and how opening up about her changing body ultimately transformed her relationship with intimacy.Dr. Meston explains why female sexual desire may work differently than many women have been taught, including why arousal can sometimes come before desire. She also breaks down the physical and psychological factors that can affect sex, from hormones, blood flow and vaginal changes to stress, sleep, body image and relationships.Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi discusses treatment options for women experiencing painful sex, vaginal dryness and changes in libido, including vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, vaginal estrogen and testosterone.Plus, Naomi explains why she believes menopause can be an empowering new chapter rather than the end of pleasure, intimacy or good sex.SponsorsSarah Pharmaceuticals / The PreTRM Test: Learn more about the PreTRM test at pre-term.com and talk with your healthcare provider about whether it may be appropriate for you.Momentous: Try Momentous Signature Spec Creatine at livemomentous.com and use code GMD or CMD POD for up to 35% off your first order.David Protein: Buy four cartons and get the fifth free at davidprotein.com/cmd.Talkiatry: Visit talkiatry.com/cmd to complete a short assessment and get matched with an in-network psychiatrist.What You’ll LearnWhy Naomi Watts' personal experience with early menopause inspired her to help change the conversation around women's health.The lesser-known symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, including brain fog, sleep disruption, dry eyes, vaginal dryness, and painful sex.How hormonal changes can affect vaginal health, lubrication, and urinary symptoms.Why sexual arousal can precede desire for many women, particularly during perimenopause and menopause.How stress, exercise, relationship dynamics, and negative thoughts can influence sexual arousal and intimacy.What treatment options are available for vaginal dryness and painful sex, including moisturizers, lubricants, vaginal estrogen, and other therapies.Why open communication with your partner and a knowledgeable healthcare provider is essential to navigating changes in sexual health.How Naomi's experiences and conversations with women inspired Stripes' sexual wellness products.Why menopause can be a new chapter of confidence, self-advocacy, and sexual fulfillment rather than the end of a satisfying sex life.Key Timestamps00:00 Naomi Watts on why good sex doesn't have an age limit04:51 The overlooked symptoms of perimenopause and menopause07:32 Vaginal dryness, painful sex, and recurring UTIs12:32 How arousal, body image, and negative thoughts affect intimacy18:55 Naomi's experience navigating menopause in a new relationship22:08 The science of arousal, exercise, and blood flow31:42 Vaginal estrogen and long-term vaginal health40:31 How stress, sleep, and relationship dynamics affect desire42:00 Why women should never feel they have to tolerate painful sex45:24 The connection between psychological arousal, physical response, and communication51:16 Testosterone therapy and the Mona Lisa laser56:38 Naomi's menopause tips, favorite Stripes products, and rapid-fire questions58:05 The language around menopause that needs to change1:00:38 Dr. Meston's advice for women navigating menopause1:02:29 Reframing menopause as an empowering new chapterKey TakeawaysMenopause affects more than hot flashes. Hormonal changes can influence sleep, mood, cognition, skin, eyes, vaginal health, and sexual comfort, sometimes years before menopause itself.Female desire and arousal don't always follow a linear pattern. For many women, particularly as they age, arousal can come before desire. Understanding this can help women move away from the expectation that sexual desire must always happen spontaneously.Sexual health involves both the mind and the body. Physical changes, stress, fatigue, body image, relationship dynamics, and distracting thoughts can all influence arousal and intimacy.Painful sex should not be accepted as an inevitable part of aging. Vaginal moisturizers, lubricants, vaginal estrogen, and other treatment options may help, depending on individual needs and medical history. Women experiencing persistent pain should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.Communication can transform intimacy. Talking openly with a partner outside the bedroom about changing needs, comfort, and pleasure can help couples adapt and maintain connection throughout different stages of life.Women deserve individualized, evidence-informed care. There is no single approach to sexual health during menopause. Working with a clinician knowledgeable in menopause and sexual medicine can help ...
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • REPLAY: SZA on Her Health, Family History & Becoming Her Own Advocate

    REPLAY: SZA on Her Health, Family History & Becoming Her Own Advocate
    Oct 8 2026

    We are revisiting one of our favorite SheMD conversations with SZA.


    SZA joins her longtime physician Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney for an intimate conversation about her health, family history and the anxiety that can come with trying to understand what is happening inside your own body.


    Dr. A walks through SZA’s breast cancer risk assessment, family history, genetic testing and why a negative genetic test does not necessarily mean someone has an average lifetime risk of breast cancer.


    SZA also talks candidly about health anxiety, therapy, trauma, relationships, creativity and learning to accept the parts of herself that do not fit the traditional idea of being a “nice girl.” She reflects on the drive that helped build her career, why outside validation once mattered so much to her and what she is still learning about trusting herself.


    Plus, SZA talks about getting off the internet, motherhood, life beyond music and the people who have shaped who she is today.


    This conversation was originally recorded before SZA went on to win three Grammys following the release of SOS.


    Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.


    Sponsors

    Blueland: Get 15% off your first order at blueland.com/shemd.

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    Sequencing.com: Get up to 10% off your full genome test plus free shipping at sequencing.com with promo code SheMD.


    What You'll Learn

    • Where the name SZA comes from and what each letter represents.
    • Why every woman should know her lifetime risk of breast cancer, even without a family history.
    • How factors like height, weight, breast density, family history, and genetic testing change a lifetime risk score.
    • Why women with a lifetime risk above 20% should start breast imaging at 30 instead of 40.
    • What a fibroadenoma is and why imaging catches cancers years before a lump can be felt.
    • How a family history of cancer can create lasting health anxiety, and why being your own advocate matters.
    • The story behind SOS and SZA's journey away from trying to be a "nice girl."
    • SZA's advice for young artists on protecting their health and creativity.


    Key Takeaways

    • The average woman has a 12.5% lifetime risk of breast cancer, and every woman should have her personal risk calculated by her doctor.
    • A negative genetic test does not mean low risk, since family history, breast density, and other factors still affect a woman's lifetime risk.
    • Women with a lifetime risk above 20% should begin breast imaging at 30, not 40, and may be missed if risk is never calculated.
    • By the time a lump can be felt, it has often been there for years, which is why regular imaging is essential.
    • Watching loved ones go through cancer can create real health anxiety, and advocating for yourself is better than assuming something is nothing.
    • Integrating every part of yourself, including your edge, can be a source of strength rather than shame.


    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    55 mins
  • Diagnosed With Stage 3 Breast Cancer at 19: Miranda McKeon’s Story

    Diagnosed With Stage 3 Breast Cancer at 19: Miranda McKeon’s Story
    Oct 6 2026
    Miranda McKeon was only 19 when she noticed a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with stage three, hormone positive, HER2 negative invasive ductal carcinoma. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Miranda joins SheMD to share the full story of her diagnosis, treatment and life after breast cancer. She opens up about the breast dimpling she initially dismissed, learning she carried a CHEK2 mutation despite having no family history of cancer, freezing her eggs before chemotherapy, undergoing a double mastectomy and radiation, and entering medically induced menopause in her early 20s.Miranda also talks candidly about painful sex, vaginal dryness, low libido, dating, body image, fertility and the emotional impact of experiencing cancer during what should have been her college years.Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi explains breast changes women should pay attention to, how genetics and breast density can affect risk, and why knowing your own baseline and speaking up when something changes can matter.This conversation is a powerful reminder that breast cancer does not only affect older women and that knowing your body is an important part of advocating for your health.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.SponsorsSmileSet: Listeners get an additional 35% off clear aligners at smileset.com/shemd.Arca Wealth: Book a complimentary financial planning call with an Arca advisor at arcawealth.com/shemd. Arca Wealth is a fee-only fiduciary firm. This is a paid endorsement. See arcawealth.com for important disclosures.AG1: For a limited time, get a free immune support bundle (omega-3 fish oil and vitamin D3 K2) with your first AG1 NextGen or AG1 Pro subscription order at drinkag1.com/shemd.Gusto: Get three months free when you run your first payroll at gusto.com/shemd.Larine: Listeners get up to 50% off Larine remineralizing gum at buylarine.com/shemd.What You'll LearnWhy breast cancer rates are rising faster in women under 50, and why young women's symptoms are so often dismissed.The early signs of breast cancer beyond a lump, including skin dimpling, nipple changes, discharge, and persistent one-sided flaky skin.How CHEK2 mutations and polygenic risk scores shape breast cancer risk, even without a family history.Why a one-size-fits-all mammogram age misses individual risk, and how breast density, family history, and genetics change the picture.How to calculate your lifetime breast cancer risk with the Tyrer-Cuzick model and when high-risk screening should begin.How chemotherapy can affect fertility, and why egg freezing should come before treatment.What medically induced menopause looks like for a young woman, including hot flashes, low libido, and vaginal dryness.How vaginal estrogen and CO2 laser treatments can help with painful sex.How to cope emotionally with a young-onset diagnosis, from therapy to gratitude lists to a trusted inner circle.Key TakeawaysBreast cancer is more common after 50, but rates are rising faster in younger women, and one in six new invasive cases occurs before age 50.Skin dimpling and other changes are symptoms too. A young woman may not recognize them as warning signs, which can delay diagnosis.Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history, so a lack of family history is not a guarantee of low risk.Mammograms starting at 40 treat everyone alike. Breast density, genetics, family history, and polygenic risk can all change when screening should begin.Every woman should know her lifetime breast cancer risk by 30. A risk of 20% or more means earlier imaging, which may include mammogram, ultrasound, and MRI.Egg freezing should be part of the first conversation before chemotherapy, because chemo's effect on ovarian reserve is unpredictable.Medically induced menopause can bring severe symptoms, including painful sex, and women shouldn't feel ashamed to bring them up with their doctors.A double mastectomy leaves some residual breast tissue, so ongoing monitoring is still important.Know what's normal for your breasts and report changes promptly.Therapy, gratitude, and a trusted circle can help you get through a young-onset diagnosis.Guest Bio - Miranda McKeonMiranda McKeon is a breast cancer survivor, women’s health advocate, and content creator who was diagnosed with stage 3 hormone-positive, HER2-negative invasive ductal carcinoma at just 19 years old. After discovering a lump in her breast while home from college, Miranda underwent chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, radiation, and medically induced menopause. She later learned that she carries a CHEK2 genetic mutation associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Since her diagnosis, Miranda has become an outspoken advocate for young women navigating cancer, sexual ...
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    44 mins
  • Whitney Cummings: Freezing My Eggs, "Geriatric Pregnancy," and Becoming a Mom at 40

    Whitney Cummings: Freezing My Eggs, "Geriatric Pregnancy," and Becoming a Mom at 40
    Sep 29 2026
    This one is a full-circle moment. Our guest isn't just one of Mary Alice's oldest friends (25 years and counting), she's also one of Dr. A's real-life patients, the doctor who actually froze her eggs. Whitney Cummings, comedian, actress, and creator of 2 Broke Girls and Whitney, has built a career saying the things women usually only whisper about. Today she says them out loud, with us.Whitney was talking about freezing her eggs before it was a mainstream conversation (she did it at 33), and she is refreshingly, hilariously honest about getting pregnant at 40, being handed the term "geriatric pregnancy," the postpartum depression that came after her son, and the body image struggles she's carried for years. She and the hosts get into fertility, the real cost of waiting, why "biology is sexist," and the money advice she gives every young woman (skip the designer bag, save it for your eggs).Funny, tender, and the kind of honesty that makes you feel less alone.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.SponsorsProlon: For a limited time, get 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to the 5-day program. Visit prolonlife.com/shemd.Egglife: Find Egglife egg white wraps in the fridge at Aldi, Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, Walmart, and more. Visit egglifefoods.com to find a retailer near you.OHHO: Get 20% off your first order at ohho.co with code SheMD20.Acely: Get 20% off SAT prep today at acely.com with code SheMD.Osea: Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code SheMD at oseamalibu.com.Skylight: Get $30 off the 15-inch Skylight Calendar at myskylight.com/shemd.What You'll LearnWhy Whitney froze her eggs at 33 and how it eased her anxiety about dating and timing.Why Dr. A tells patients never to use all of their frozen eggs to make embryos with a partner.How egg quantity and quality decline with age, and what that means for miscarriage risk.The lifestyle changes Whitney made before conceiving naturally at 40.The testing and monitoring Dr. A recommends for advanced maternal age pregnancies, including preterm birth screening, low-dose aspirin, and growth ultrasounds.Why delivery at 39 weeks is recommended for women over 40.The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression, and how long the postpartum period really lasts.Whitney's approach to co-parenting, forgiveness, and choosing a partner.Key TakeawaysEgg freezing can reduce the pressure and anxiety around timing, and women should always keep some of their own eggs rather than using them all for embryos with a partner.Both egg quantity and quality decline with age, but many women still have healthy pregnancies in their 40s with the right care and awareness of their personal risk factors.Advanced maternal age pregnancies benefit from closer monitoring, including preterm birth screening, low-dose aspirin, regular growth ultrasounds, and delivery at 39 weeks.Postpartum depression affects about one in seven women, can appear up to a year after birth, and is more likely without strong support at home.Asking for help, leaning on your village, and letting motherhood change you are essential parts of postpartum recovery.Choosing a partner based on respect and integrity, and co-parenting with kindness, creates a healthier environment for your child.Guest Bio - Whitney CummingsWhitney Cummings is a comedian, actress, director, and writer. She is the co-creator of 2 Broke Girls, the creator and star of NBC's Whitney, and the host of the podcast Good for You. Known for her disarmingly honest stand-up specials, Whitney has spoken openly about egg freezing, body image, sobriety, and her recovery from an eating disorder. She became a mom at 40 to her son Henry and has been candid about her pregnancy and postpartum journey.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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    1 hr and 24 mins