The Silent Struggles of Living with Endometriosis
March is Endometriosis Awareness month, and in today’s episode Dr Shauna is joined by Dr Naomi Whittaker - a board-certified OB-GYN and Endo-fertility surgeon based in the US.
A dedicated educator, Dr Naomi Whittaker is passionate about raising awareness of Endometriosis and empowering women with knowledge about their reproductive health. With a commitment to treating the root causes of reproductive health issues, she integrates advanced medical techniques with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
In this episode, Dr Shauna and Dr Naomi Whittaker talk about the silent struggles of living with Endometriosis - how does it typically present? Why is it so tricky to diagnose? What are the common misconceptions?
Endo is often cited in fertility struggles, and Dr Whittaker explains how it impacts fertility and what you can do to improve fertility outcomes.
While you might not have Endometriosis yourself, around 1 in 7 women in Australia do. This episode covers how you can support a loved one with Endo, especially through the pain and symptoms that aren't always visible.
For more resources:
Follow Dr Naomi Whittaker on Instagram.
Visit https://endometriosisaustralia.org/.
Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:
Podcast Website: www.allaboutyoupod.com.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts
https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgp
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247
00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Presentation
00:00:00 - Why Endometriosis is Tricky to Diagnose
00:01:18 - Understanding Endometriosis
00:02:01 - Dr. Whitaker's Journey into Endometriosis Specialization
00:03:46 - Theories on the Origin of Endometriosis
00:06:27 - Symptoms and Pain Levels of Endometriosis
00:11:09 - Impact of Endometriosis on Quality of Life
00:13:37 - Endometriosis and Infertility
00:15:15 - Reframing Silent Endometriosis and its Symptoms
00:16:21 - Screening and Testing for Endometriosis
00:18:23 - Surgical Intervention for Endometriosis
00:18:58 - Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Endometriosis
00:21:18 - The Struggle for Diagnosis and Advocacy
00:24:04 - The Importance of Early Intervention and Surgery
00:25:42 - Surgical Techniques for Endometriosis
00:27:52 - Understanding Adenomyosis
00:29:23 - Treatment Options for Adenomyosis
00:30:22 - Misconceptions about Endometriosis and Infertility
00:31:53 - Endometriosis and PCOS: Understanding the Connection
00:34:07 - Endometriosis and Ovarian Reserve
00:35:38 - Endometriosis and Menopause
00:37:00 - Contraceptives for Managing Endometriosis
00:37:47 - Endometriosis and Urinary Symptoms
00:39:25 - Endometriosis and Painful Intercourse
00:40:18 - Supporting a Loved One with Endometriosis
00:40:57 - Pain Relief for Endometriosis
00:41:29 - Natural Procreative Technology (NAPRO) Approach to Surgery
00:42:05 - Post-Surgery Recovery and Symptom Management
00:43:50 - Supplements and Lifestyle Changes for Managing Endometriosis
00:45:16 - Recurrence of Endometriosis Post-Surgery
00:45:25 - Recurrence of Endometriosis and Adhesion Prevention
00:46:25 - Understanding Adhesion Prevention
00:47:32 - The Use of Gore-Tex Membrane Implant
00:49:15 - The Decision to Perform a Hysterectomy
00:49:54 - Endometriosis in Post-Menopausal Women
00:52:39 - The Incidence and Awareness of Endometriosis
00:53:36 - Improving Medical Approach Towards Endometriosis
00:54:54 - The Impact of Stress on Endometriosis
00:55:23 - Hope for the Future of Endometriosis Treatment
00:56:21 - Final Thoughts on Endometriosis
Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.
