While you wait… podcast

with Dr. Sarah Boyles

This episode is an introduction to me and what you can expect from this podcast.  My goal is to help women get started on their bladder issues while they are waiting for an appointment with a Urogynecologist.  I talk about what led me to do a podcast and why I am so excited to get started!

In this episode, I’d like to discuss the first step, which is to figure out why you are leaking. 

There are different reasons that women leak, and different types of leaking are treated in different ways.    

In this episode, I’ll discuss the first-line treatment for urgency urinary incontinence or overactive bladder.

In this episode, Dr. Wada and I discuss how to get the most out of your doctor’s appointment.  Her mission is to “empower us to thrive in systems that at times feel like they were built to overwhelm.”

Join us for this informative conversation, and prepare for your next appointment!

You can find out more about Dr. Wada at:  https://www.drkarawada.com/

In episode 7, I discuss what you can expect during your first office visit. 

This includes The importance of paperwork, why we ask questions, and details of the visit and the exam.

I’ll also discuss how you can customize your visit to suit you and the benefits of a virtual visit (or telemedicine)

In this episode, I discuss the medical conditions that can cause symptoms of bladder leaking.  These medical conditions are rare but always need to be considered.  Most of them can be evaluated with a simple history and physical exam.

This is why it is important that you are up-to-date on your health care before you consider treating your bladder leaking on your own.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about four things you can do to get started while waiting for an appointment.

#1. Pick the right incontinence products

#2 Journal your symptoms

#3 Determine your diagnosis.

#4 Strengthen your pelvic floor.

Don’t miss all the resources in this informative episode.

In this episode, I get into the details of hormone replacement therapy for vaginal and bladder symptoms.
I start by talking about how we only have a finite number of eggs; when they are gone, we stop making estrogen. In the period before they are gone, we make estrogen in irregular amounts, which leads to menopause.
I discuss who should use estrogen (women with symptoms), why they should use it (to help with symptoms like vaginal dryness and recurrent bladder infections), when they should start it (before age 60 or within ten years of the start of menopause if using oral estrogen), and how they should use it (if the symptoms are vagina or bladder related, you should use vaginal estrogen). I talk about the “rules” around estrogen therapy- like if you have a uterus, you need progesterone. And then, I talk about common symptoms, how we describe them medically, and what I hear patients saying.

It can be hard to find and contract your pelvic floor muscles, so many women have problems doing this!

This episode is from a webinar I did with Jeanice Mitchell. She is a fabulous pelvic floor physical therapist, and she walks us through how to find the muscles and do a correct Kegel contraction.

There are a lot of incontinence products out there!
And this episode is all about incontinence pads and underwear. When thinking about pads, it’s important to use pads designed for bladder leaking- they work better.

So join me as I discuss the different types of pads, the most common ones, and which pads are designed for sensitive skin. 

Join Dr. Bethany Malone, a renowned colorectal surgeon dedicated to improving patient access to quality healthcare and restoring trust in the medical system through her influential presence on TikTok, Forbes, Insider, and Healthline.

We’ll cover:

•  the connection between bowel, rectal, and pelvic floor issues and their impact on bladder symptoms.
•  insights into conditions mislabeled as “hemorrhoids”
•  topics such as fecal smearing, leaking, and pelvic floor tightness and shed light on symptoms many women find uncomfortable discussing

In this episode, I talk to Dr. Alicia Shelly about how to lose weight. Dr. Shelly is a Board Certified Internal Medicine/Obesity Medicine physician and is the lead physician for Wellstar Douglasville Medical Center. She hosts the Back on Track: Achieving Health Weight Loss Podcast and Thrive for Life Youtube channel. She is a renowned speaker and has completed six marathons and Ironman.

Join us for this practical talk on how to lose weight.

Join me on this episode as I talk to Dr. Meredith Brezinski, a pelvic floor physical therapist who delivers PT in her client’s homes!  She’ll discuss home this works and why clients like it (think convenience!).  It works particularly well for new moms.

She is part of a company called Concierge Physical Therapists which provides this service in 20 different states for pelvic floor and orthopedic conditions.

She wants you all to know that it is never too late to try PT, even if your youngest is 40!

In this podcast, Dr. Brezinski talks about a 10-question screening tool she uses.  This is called the Cozean questionnaire.  This questionnaire is commonly used by physical therapists.

Join me for this conversation with Angela Fishman, a pelvic floor physical therapist who has a practice that is exclusively online.

 Angela is passionate about teaching women how to conquer these often embarrassing problems in the comfort of their own homes, so they can live their life to the fullest.

In this podcast, we’ll talk about the benefits and limitations of seeing a PT virtually.  We’ll also talk about why women hesitate to seek help for bladder and pelvic floor issues.  Then we’ll talk about techniques to relax the pelvic floor and how it is often harder to relax than strengthen. 

Angela will focus on breathing techniques, unlearning “bad” behaviors and replacing them with good behaviors, the benefits of stretching, scar release, and the impact of injuries.  We’ll also discuss other muscles that can impact the pelvic floor, including the hips, groin, abdomen, and back.

Most of underestimate the importance of sleep.  Sleep can dramatically impact how our bodies work.  

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Valerie Cacho, a physician who is triple boarded in internal, sleep, and integrative medicine.  She is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal sleep health.  She is also the founder of Sleephoria, an online company promoting optimal sleep habits for women.  She is also a speaker, writer, and sleep wellness consultant as well as the first sleep guide for AthletaWell.

Join us as we talk about how we become a nation of bad sleepers.  Dr. Cacho talks about how sleep impacts your:
cognitive health
heart health
immune system
ability to lose weight
and bladder health (of course!)

She is a wealth of knowledge and so good at explaining the physiology behind good sleep and improved health.  

We are all just a little bit more anxious these days.  Join me as  I talk with Dr. Priscilla Hidalgo (or “Dr.H” as her patients call her), a board-certified and fellowship-trai private practice psychiatrist serving patients in North Carolina and Florida. Her practice focuses on helping people with busy lives who are stressed and overwhelmed. She also has a special interest in women’s mental health and physician wellness.

You’ll hear us talk about whether anxiety is really worse these days and how anxiety increases with hormonal changes in the perimenopausal period.  And while you can’t impact your external stressors, you can shift your mindset and focus on what you can do internally.

We discuss a theme that comes up with many of my guests- how women put themselves last and how this can impact health.  And how to be kind and compassionate with yourself.  The importance of scheduling rest time and finding joy in the day.

She will also discuss the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder and how to find a therapist or psychiatrist.

You can find Dr. Hidalgo here:
http://https://www.luxpsychiatry.com/

In this episode, I talk to MJ Strauhal. MJ is an expert pelvic floor physical therapist, an awesome human, in charge of pelvic floor PT in the Providence Health System in Portland, OR. We’ll cover a lot of the details that women want to know before their appointment. Like:

 ~ What happens from the time of the referral? How are patients assigned a physical therapist (it is based on where they live but also their diagnosis and the complexity of their situation)

~ What paperwork do they have to complete?

 ~ The importance of making sure you and your PT are a match

~ The importance of “going global before you go local- investigating other structures and previous injuries

~ The first appointment is all discussion and no exam. Exams happen when the patient is ready and do NOT have to include internal exams.

~ What the space feels like

~ The importance of assessing posture and ergonomics

~ The importance of assessing pressure and breathing

~ Clinical visits vs. virtual visits

We also discuss a new online virtual class for Providence Health Plan patients.

 Addressing pelvic floor concerns is a journey. This episode is designed to make you more comfortable and informed before heading to PT. Come check it out!

This episode is all about the Innovo. The Innovo is a non-invasive way to strengthen the pelvic floor to help improve stress urinary incontinence. It is a pair of shorts that uses electrical stimulation to contract the pelvic floor. The shorts are designed to be worn for 30 minutes 5 times per week and should improve incontinence in 12 weeks. No prescription is needed to obtain this device.

In this episode, I talk to Ruth Maher, who helped design this device based on her work as a physical therapist. I tried the shorts before the episode and had some trouble getting them to contract my pelvic floor. Ruth helped me to troubleshoot why and get them to work. Come listen!

See more about Innovo at https://www.myinnovo.com/ 

Women with bladder leaking need incontinence products, so I’m always looking at what’s out there. Lots of women have sensitivities and need hypoallergenic products.

Discover the future of incontinence products! Join us as we chat with Alex Fennell, co-CEO of Attn: Grace, a pioneering company shaking up the industry. Unlike typical petroleum-based options, their products are eco-friendly, crafted from recycled sugar cane waste with minimal chemicals.

Get ready for less irritation and outstanding performance—Attn: Grace products outshine the rest in independent lab tests. No more worries about odor—these products wick away urine effectively.
Whether you experience mild leaks or more, they’ve got you covered with a range of pads, including hybrids, for added protection.

Enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on your first purchase -code in show notes.

Competitive pricing, eco-conscious packaging—experience the Attn: Grace difference!

Tune in for this exciting episode and stay ahead in the world of incontinence products.

Join us in this episode as we dive into the world of perimenopause with Dr. Gouri Pimputkar, a board-certified physician in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Lifestyle Medicine.

Discover valuable insights about perimenopausal symptoms and managing them. Learn to visualize your hormones like a dimmer switch—subtle yet powerful.

Understand when it’s time to seek help and who to consult for support. Explore effective methods to track and decode your symptoms.

Gain knowledge about hormone levels and when hormone therapy might be necessary.

Embrace the significance of lifestyle changes, including nutrition, sleep, social connections, and exercise.

Stay updated on emerging online platforms designed to enhance your well-being.
Dr. Gouri’s expert advice: Prioritize self-care and reduce stress for a happier, healthier you. Tune in for her soothing guidance!

In this episode of the “While You Wait…” podcast, we have a captivating conversation with Kim Vopni, also known as the Vagina Coach.

As a certified personal trainer with personal experience dealing with prolapse, Kim has developed online pelvic floor exercise programs specifically designed to assist women facing incontinence and prolapse challenges. Her dedication goes beyond fitness – she’s committed to breaking the stigma surrounding these important issues fostering open and comfortable conversations.

Discover the world of the Vagina Coach platform as we delve into all it has to offer. You won’t want to miss this insightful episode!

In this episode, Lauren Barker presents a groundbreaking incontinence solution: Uresta, an incontinence pessary revolutionizing the field.

Initially requiring a prescription in the US, Uresta now empowers women to manage incontinence from the comfort of their homes.
What sets Uresta apart is its focus on comfort. Many women find it incredibly easy to incorporate into their daily routines.

We explore its wear time and maintenance, providing answers to essential questions. We also cover pricing, from the starter kit to replacement pessaries, with special sales on Black Friday, Mother’s Day, and International Women’s Day.

Join us on “While You Wait” for an enlightening discussion that equips you with the knowledge to discreetly and comfortably manage incontinence. 

Uncover the transformative world of mindset in this enlightening episode featuring Dr. Priscilla Hidalgo, a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in both virtual and office-based practices. Dr. Hidalgo is committed to empowering women and helping them find their inner strength and unique voice to conquer their goals.

What is mindset? It’s your outlook on the world. Dr. Hidalgo explores the various mindsets that profoundly influence how you engage with the world, emphasizing impactful visualization exercises.
Dr. Hidalgo also addresses common myths about mindset. She’ll share essential advice for personal growth, emphasizing self-compassion and the power of visualization.

Your mindset shapes various aspects of your life, so don’t miss this enlightening episode. Tune in to gain the insights and tools needed to unlock the full potential of your mindset. Your journey to personal empowerment begins here!

This episode delves deep into the fascinating world of laser and radio frequency treatments for vaginal health. These therapies have been gaining significant attention, but what’s the real science behind them?

I’ve converted a recent lecture into a podcast format to provide unbiased, evidence-based information. While it might get a tad technical at times, there’s a goldmine of essential information in here.

My goal is to provide you with insights into these energy-based devices, how they work, and, most importantly, what the science says about their effectiveness. Please note that this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

So, whether you’re curious about these treatments or considering them an option, join us on this enlightening exploration. Let’s unravel the mystery together and discover what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what could truly benefit you.

In this episode, I delve into treatments for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), a common condition affecting around 50% of adult women. In the past, I’ve discussed things you can do at home, like pelvic floor strengthening, but this episode is about the full spectrum of options that are out there.

Our exploration begins with containment products, like specialized incontinence pads, and eco-friendly options, such as attn:Grace, which provides discreet and effective solutions. Specialized incontinence underwear designed for reuse conceals mild to moderate leakage while prioritizing comfort.

Pelvic floor strengthening, through physical therapy and various tools, empowers women to take control of their condition naturally. Weight loss is another powerful option. We explore pessaries, versatile devices that alleviate SUI, and urethral bulking procedures, minimally invasive yet effective. Finally, we’ll discuss sling procedures, offering transformative, long-lasting relief.

Your journey to a life free from SUI worries begins here.

Discover treatments for Urgency Urinary Incontinence (UUI) and Overactive Bladder in this essential episode of the “While You Wait…” podcast. With approximately half of adult women affected by incontinence, this knowledge is invaluable. I’ll delve into the three lines of treatment, from pelvic floor strengthening to medications and advanced interventions. Throughout this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights into managing UUI, with an overall improvement rate ranging from 60% to 80% for advanced treatments. Find the perfect solution to lead a more confident, comfortable life. Don’t miss out – tune in now and empower yourself with the knowledge you need on your journey to improved well-being and dryness!

Join me as we unravel Botox’s mysteries, delving into its origin as a neurotoxin and its remarkable role in alleviating overactive bladder symptoms.

I’ll break down the science behind Botox, explaining how it disrupts cell signaling and temporarily paralyzes muscle fibers. Explore its fascinating application in preventing dynamic facial wrinkles, offering a multifaceted solution.

Understanding the nuances of Botox, from its temporary effectiveness requiring repeat treatments to potential side effects, is key. We’ll navigate the procedure from bladder numbing to injection processes, offering insights into choosing between office and operating room settings and the role of pre-medication in managing anxiety.

Post-procedure care takes center stage, emphasizing the importance of checking for infections, prescribing antibiotics, and scheduling follow-up appointments. Anticipate changes, manage expectations, and delve into the psychological aspects of the process, highlighting the significance of trust in your medical team.
Remember that Botox may not be suitable for everyone, and I encourage the exploration of alternative treatments.

Let’s dive into the highlights from the International Continence Society convention 2023. This episode explores the global collaboration among healthcare professionals, discussing the diverse approaches to evidence-based medicine.

Join me as I go through the ten key takeaways from the conference, ranging from the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training to groundbreaking research on prolapse causes. Discover the impact of group-based physical therapy classes, both in-person and online, and how they contribute to a 75% cure rate for stress incontinence.

Delve into postmenopausal health, where pelvic floor muscle strengthening surprisingly enhances blood flow, elasticity, and overall well-being. Learn about innovative developments, such as a vaccine to prevent chronic urinary tract infections and its potential to revolutionize preventive care. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or simply curious about the latest advancements in women’s health, this episode offers valuable insights and bridges the gap between international perspectives.

Please note that the information shared is for educational purposes and does not substitute personalized medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for tailored recommendations.

Breaking from our usual educational format, we sit down with a woman, who I’ll refer to as Jane, who has firsthand experience of urgency incontinence. Jane takes us through her transformative journey, offering insights into her challenges, decisions, and the life-changing impact of the eCoin Tibial Implant.

Tune in for a Personal Perspective: Whether you’re navigating your healthcare journey or curious about innovative solutions, Jane’s candid story provides a valuable and relatable perspective. Join us for this intimate episode, delving into the human side of healthcare.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1 of “While You Wait…”! In this compelling episode, I’ll dive into a crucial aspect of women’s health—bladder leakage. Drawing from a recent talk in Portland titled “Doctor, My Bladder Leaks, How Can You Help Me?” aimed at primary care colleagues, I emphasize the significance of addressing incontinence.

Discover why bladder leakage is a prevalent and impactful issue affecting women of all ages. This episode is a detailed exploration of the talk’s key points, highlighting the societal and personal implications of this often-overlooked concern.

From the staggering statistics revealing the commonality of bladder leakage to its profound impact on quality of life, our host breaks down the reasons healthcare providers should prioritize addressing this issue. The episode also touches upon the associated risks, both medical and financial, making a compelling case for proactive intervention.

The central message? Validation matters. I talk about the importance of healthcare providers validating women’s symptoms, offering insights into why this seemingly simple step can be a game-changer. The conversation extends to the duration of time women endure symptoms in silence and the associated challenges in discussing a topic that still carries a degree of taboo.

But that’s not all. Practical solutions are provided, including knowing local resources and introducing the “Bladder Starter Series,” a valuable resource on my website, thewomensbladderdoctor.com. This series aims to empower women and guide healthcare providers in initiating conversations around bladder health.

In today’s episode, we talk about urinary incontinence. Following the initial diagnosis and treatments, then taking the mystery out of some complex medical procedures. Beginning with a thorough understanding of the body’s signals, we break down the initial steps in diagnosis—discussing the importance of identifying triggers, symptom assessment, and the overall health context. Then, transition into stress incontinence. 

We dive into personalized care and programs, coaching benefits, as well as virtual group sessions as alternatives.

Beyond the basics, we explore various solutions, from user-friendly devices to non-invasive procedures. Then, it extends to advanced treatments, like surgery, and the developments in stem cell therapies. 

We’ll address urgency incontinence through behavioral adjustments, dietary considerations, and medication.

Tune in for a comprehensive exploration of urinary incontinence, offering insights, hope, and a roadmap to empower those navigating this journey.

I recorded this episode of “While You Wait” on January 1st, 2024, where I discussed my resolution for 2024. I’ll passionately challenge the stigma around bladder symptoms, emphasizing that leaking urine is not just common but deserves attention and proactive management.

Discover courses I’ve created to help women on this journey. They range from a free video collection guiding women in understanding and addressing different types of leaking and practical steps for managing stress and urgency incontinence to my most comprehensive offering, which provides in-depth knowledge about anatomy, terminology, and factors influencing bladder health. Empower yourself to choose a treatment that aligns with your lifestyle confidently.

Whether you’re a woman seeking solutions or a healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights and resources to defy the notion of accepting bladder symptoms as an inevitable part of life. Tune in for a roadmap to improved bladder health and graceful aging.

Start the new year right by taking charge of your bladder health! In this “While You Wait…” episode, I revisit essential tips for managing bladder symptoms before your appointment.

Whether you’re dealing with leaks or constant urges, I’ll provide actionable steps to empower you on your journey to wellness. Tune in to discover expert advice and practical strategies that can make a difference in your daily life.

In this episode, we dive into three ways you can help improve your (SUI) stress urinary incontinence (urine leakage during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing). Managing your SUI can be complex,
so many women are looking for effective solutions tailored specifically to their needs. Our expert guests guide listeners through three innovative approaches to address SUI, offering insights into their unique devices, benefits, and effectiveness. From the Leva pelvic health system’s app-based exercises to the Inovo shorts’ neuromuscular electrical stimulation and the Uresta incontinence pessary’s discreet and adjustable design, each solution presents a unique path toward regaining bladder control.

In this episode, we explore advanced treatments for urgency urinary incontinence, beyond the conventional approaches. Join me as we uncover the intricacies of three distinct third-line interventions to alleviate OAB.
These three conversations were extracted from past interviews, offering a comprehensive understanding of each intervention. We begin with sacral nerve stimulation, a groundbreaking procedure targeting the intricate communication between the bladder and the brain. From there, we transition to the innovative E Coin, a tibial nerve stimulator, exploring its placement and effectiveness in managing overactive bladder symptoms.
Lastly, we explore the widely used Botox treatment, explaining its mechanism, procedure, and potential outcomes. With detailed insights and expert advice, this episode equips listeners with valuable knowledge to navigate their journey toward improved bladder health.
Whether exploring treatment options or seeking deeper insights into these innovative interventions, this episode promises valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to empower yourself with the knowledge needed to reclaim control over your bladder health!

In this episode, I’m joined by Mandy Pulliam, the CMO of Axena Health, to discuss the revolutionary Leva Pelvic Health System.

Discover the inner workings of the Leva system, a cutting-edge solution designed to address urinary incontinence through innovative technology and personalized coaching. Learn about its unique features, including its accompanying mobile app filled with educational resources and exercise programs.

Learn how the Leva system integrates into daily life, providing users with a standardized and convenient pelvic floor muscle training solution. Mandy discusses recent research findings and long-term outcomes for the Leva system’s users. And discover the future directions and ongoing research efforts at Axena Health aimed at expanding the indications and accessibility of the Leva system.

Join us for this enlightening discussion on pelvic health, urinary incontinence, and the groundbreaking Leva Pelvic Health System. Don’t miss out on valuable insights and expert perspectives!

In this episode of “while you wait…” podcast, join me for a captivating conversation with Sher Palm, a dedicated advocate and activist for women’s health empowerment. Cher shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery and advocacy in destigmatizing vaginal and intimate health concerns, mainly focusing on pelvic organ prolapse.

 From her diagnosis at 30 to founding the Association of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support (APOPS), Sher’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and determination to improve women’s healthcare.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sher Palm as we delve into the vital work of empowering women to take control of their vaginal and pelvic health.

For more information on Sher Palm APOPS, be sure to check out: https://www.pelvicorganprolapsesupport.org/

Join me for an insightful conversation with Jane as she shares her journey with stress incontinence, a condition affecting many women of all ages. From childhood to adulthood, Jane struggled with symptoms that impacted her daily life. She discusses the challenges of dealing with stress incontinence at a young age and the stigma surrounding it.

Jane’s openness and honesty shed light on the importance of breaking taboos and seeking support for women’s health issues. Learn about her decision to undergo the urethral bulking procedure and the life-changing results she experienced. Discover how Jane’s journey toward healing has empowered her and inspired others to seek solutions for their health challenges.

Feeling inspired by Jane’s journey? If you’re experiencing similar challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out for support and explore treatment options. Take the first step towards improving your health and reclaiming your confidence today!

In this episode of “while you wait,” I address the importance of taking proactive steps toward managing pelvic floor issues, even while facing delays in office visits. I discuss the challenges of increased wait times and my temporary absence due to medical leave. Despite these obstacles, I’ll discuss the significance of initiating the journey toward pelvic health.
Despite challenges, progress is attainable on the path to pelvic health. By embracing vulnerability, documenting symptoms, and exploring treatment options, patients can take meaningful steps towards improving their well-being, setting the stage for informed discussions and personalized care upon their clinic visit.