Vaginal Health and Sexual Vitality with Dr. Betsy Greenleaf

In this groundbreaking episode of the Menopause Disruptor Podcast, host Mary Lee welcomes Dr. Betsy Greenleaf—the first woman in the United States to become board certified in urogynecology. Triple board certified in obstetrics and gynecology, female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, and procedural medicine and aesthetics, Dr. Greenleaf is a true pioneer challenging outdated narratives in women's health.

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Greenleaf shares her journey from studying the sports page alongside surgery textbooks to founding the International Pause Institute and the Pelvic Floor Store. This conversation dives deep into the gut-vagina-bladder connection, the commercialization of menopause (yes, menopause toothpaste exists), and why 90% of medical conditions are caused or worsened by poor gut microbiome health.

From the vaginal mesh crisis to her "find your bikini moment" philosophy, Dr. Greenleaf delivers practical wisdom on pelvic prolapse, GSM (genitourinary syndrome of menopause), why KY Jelly is terrible for vaginal health, and how one dose of Cipro can disrupt your gut microbiome for an entire year. She also reveals her secret hack: testosterone cream around the eyes for dry eye relief.

Key Takeaways

• 90% of medical conditions caused or worsened by poor gut microbiome
• 50% of women experience pelvic prolapse (bladder, uterus, rectum dropping)
• 90% of serotonin made in the gut—mood issues may be microbiome-related and 80% of immune system made in the gut
• UTI-antibiotic-UTI cycle disrupts gut and perpetuates infections
• Vaginal mesh crisis parallels current menopause commercialization fears
• Sexual stimulation maintains pelvic blood flow

Resources:

• GSM Fact Sheet
• Women’s Pelvic Meditation: https://femversity.com/pelvicmediation-sign-up

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