The Re:pro Health Podcast (University of Alberta Medical Students)

On this episode of season 7 of the Re:Pro Health Podcast we chat about sex, guilt, and shame. What's the difference between guilt and shame and why is it so common to experience these feelings about sex? How does a conservative upbringing or religion tie into our feelings surrounding our sexuality? Join us as we welcome Tami-Lee Duncan to discuss these topics using her background as a registered psychologist who specializes in sexual therapy. Tami-Lee is the owner of Transcend Psychological Services and has extensive knowledge and experience with sex-related issues such as sexual health and education, sexual dysfunction, relationships, and more! 

Join us in conversation with Dr. Fiona Mattatal as we discuss what it meaans to be a health advocate, the ups, downs, and everything in between. Dr. Mattatal speaks on her own inspirations and shares tips for anyone looking to become an advocate too! Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hTjch582Zir60arVdWc_1iiJwZc-a2YX/view?usp=sharing 

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of contraception!

Featuring special guest Dr. Jonathan Tankel, who is an obstetrician/gynecologist practicing in Edmonton. 

For more information:

From the Sex and U website: https://www.sexandu.ca/contraception/

Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: https://www.acog.org/Patients (under the "contraception" section)

Joining us this week is Dr. Lina Roa, who focuses her practice and research on women's health through a global health lens. Listen in to learn about discrepancies in women's health across the globe, including maternal mortality and abortion access. 

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iksNCq4umO2lf99YXNWJ_rrYV9LlE20L/view?usp=sharing 

Today we are joined by Dr. May Sanaee, a Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta, who chats about chronic pelvic pain. She defines chronic pelvic pain, shares how commonplace it is, outlines symptoms to look out for and treatment options patients can pursue! Thank you Dr. Sanaee for coming on the pod! 

A brief intro to what this podcast will be about. Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of sexual and reproductive health.  

For more information:

https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services/page13737.aspx

Join us together with Brenda Kerber from The Traveling Tickle Trunk to chat about leading a happy and healthy sex life. Sexual health is an important part of everyone's wellbeing and today we chat about how it can be made safe, supportive, and fun!

Link to infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/180ftlDXBCCcX7an7P_NTb0tWMtOclWk4/view?usp=sharing 

Experiencing anxiety, or know someone who is? Learn about the signs, treatments, and misconceptions! Joining us is our special guest Dr. Helen Bondurant.

Resources:

Anxiety Canada: https://www.anxietycanada.com/ 

Stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental disorders: findings from an Australian National Survey of Mental Health Literacy and Stigma: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22023236/ 

Anxiety.org: http://anxiety.org/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad 

UptoDate Summaries: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search 

• Generalized anxiety disorder in adults: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, assessment, and diagnosis
• Approach to treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults
• Patient education: Generalized anxiety disorder (The Basics)
• Psychotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder in adults
• Pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder in adults

Link to infographic: Anxiety.html

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of miscarriage.

Featuring special guest Melanie Campbell, a registered nurse working at the Early Pregnancy Loss Program in Edmonton.

For more information:

General information: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw44090#hw44092 

Resources in Alberta: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/support-options-after-miscarriage.aspx 

Resources in Edmonton: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/Service.aspx?id=1026556&serviceAtFacilityID=1097881#contentStart    

Join us together with Dr. Phil Bach from the University of Alberta to start our new season of the podcast with a chat about male reproductive health, fertility and erectile dysfunction. Challenges with male reproductive health and fertility are widely under-recognized and we hope this episode brings this to light. 

Have you heard of the GOOP or Wellness Industry? Have you considered their practices or wanted to learn more? In this episode, we go over some myths and practices promoted by this industry.

Before you listen, let's play a game of true or false: 

1. Steaming should be used to cleanse the vagina 

2. Pineapples make vaginal discharge taste and smell better

3. Eating bread causes yeast infections

4. Jade eggs inserted in the vagina are magical 

To learn more, see our Infographic. 

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AKW1_SuZ1zJYudRg6Xujb_NUFNWSE0Oe/view?usp=sharing 

Welcome to the sixth season of The Re:Pro Health Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Meaghan Ray (they/them), a graduate student in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, as they discuss their journey as a patient navigating non-traditional family planning and assisted reproductive therapy in Canada. 

Take a look at Meaghan Ray's YouAlberta spotlight here: https://www.ualberta.ca/youalberta/2024/01/innovator-spotlight-meaghan-ray-peters.html

Painful menstruation, otherwise known as dysmenorrhea, is a very common medical issue impacting women and young girls throughout their reproductive years. Today, we will be conversing with Dr. Kostov, a family practitioner in Edmonton, about the types of dysmenorrhea that exist, as well as what can be done to reduce pain and improve quality of life for women with this condition.

We will also provide an overview of endometriosis, defined as the presence and growth of the uterine lining outside the uterus. Endometriosis can cause heavy, painful periods, as well as infertility and other medical complications. Dr. Kostov will outline how endometriosis is diagnosed, how it is managed, and special considerations to keep in mind (ex. pregnancy).

Resources:

1. My Health Alberta - Dysmenorrhea: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=stp1892&
2. My Health Alberta - Menstrual Cramps: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=mencr
3. My Health Alberta - Endometriosis: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw102998
4. Canadian Women’s Health Network - Endometriosis: http://www.cwhn.ca/en/node/40779

Summary Sheet: EndometriosisandDysmenorrheaSummarySheet.html

Join us as we explore everything to do with hormone therapy from peri- to post- menopause. We will be discussing the risks and benefits of these therapies, and who should and should not be taking them. Last, we will briefly touch on bioidentical/natural products and their current role in hormone therapy.

Featuring returning special guest Dr. Hosford, a family physician from Sherwood Park, located just outside of Edmonton.

Resources:

(1) My Health Alberta (Information on Menopause and Hormone Therapy): https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=aa114076

(2) Canadian Cancer Society (Benefits and Risks of Hormone Therapy): https://www.cancer.ca/en/prevention-and-screening/reduce-cancer-risk/make-informed-decisions/understand-hormones/benefits-and-risks-of-hrt/?region=qc

(3) Canadian Women’s Health Network (Information on Hormone Therapy): http://www.cwhn.ca/node/40788 

Summary Sheet: HormoneTherapySummarySheet.html

We are delighted to be joined by Dr. Jessica Kirkwood on this week's episode to explore inner-city reproductive health. Dr. Kirkwood, speaks on harm reduction in the inner city population. 

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of pelvic floor disorders. 

Featuring special guest Dr. Annick Poirier, who is a urogynecologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

Merck Manual: https://www.merckmanuals.com/en-ca/home/women-s-health-issues/pelvic-floor-disorders/pelvic-floor-disorders

IUGA: https://www.yourpelvicfloor.org/conditions/pelvic-organ-prolapse/

Join us as we explore healthy eating throughout pregnancy; the use of alcohol, smoking, and marijuana; and lastly, teratogens, such as Accutane, infections, and uncontrolled maternal diabetes, all factors that may affect fetal development

Featuring special guest Dr. Jennifer Hocking, an anatomy professor from the University of Alberta with an extensive background in embryology, toxicology, and developmental biology.

Resources:

1. Government of Canada (Healthy Eating and Food Safety in Pregnancy):

• https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/pregnancy/healthy-eating-pregnancy.html

• https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-safety-vulnerable-populations/food-safety-pregnant-women.html

2. My Health Alberta (Alcohol Effects on a Fetus; Learning about Pregnancy and Smoking; Substance Use: Pregnancy and Breastfeeding):

• https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tk3598

• https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abr9534
• https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Alcohol-other-drugs-smoking-and-pregnancy.aspx

3. Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (Healthy Pregnancy):

• https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/your-pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy/

4. Public Health Agency of Canada (“The Sensible Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy”):

• https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/healthy-pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy-guide.html

Summary Sheet:PrenatalNutritionandTeratogensSummarySheet.html

Today on the podcast we welcome Sarah Conrad (she/her), a physiotherapist who has been working in pelvic health for 18 years, and is now the Alberta pelvic health lead! Sarah chats about what pelvic health physio appointments can look like, does some myth-busting on kegels and shares just how common pelvic floor prolapse is (and what we can do to treat it!). This episode is a must-listen!

Have you ever wondered what happens after sexual abuse? Who are the people looking out for others when something like this happens? How does the system currently work, and how it’s being made better? Joining us is Aileen Holland, a registered ER nurse making a difference in the field of sexual assault investigation. 

For those who need to reach out, support services are available at: Assaulted Women’s Helpline 24/7 toll-free at 1.866.863.0511. Further local resources are available on your local official provincial health websites.

Infographic: What to do after Sexual Assault

Join us as we welcome back Dr. Chronopoulus to chat all things regarding LGBTQ+ sexual health with helpful tips and resources. If you are interested in revisiting our previous episode "Providing Transgender Care" with Dr. Chronopoulus where we had a conversation about providing care for gender and sexually diverse patients please us the link below.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1U2IeZcRQhuN78S4g7FXgS?si=-ovHFf5tQtK1Dq2TnUiv3Q

Join us as we discuss everything you need to know about the BRCA 1 and 2 genes. Learn what factors put you at higher risk of being a carrier and the best way to get tested. We’ll be exploring the difference between BRCA 1 and 2, what cancers besides breast these mutations puts you at risk for, and what options you have if you or a family member test positive.

Featuring returning special guest Dr. Peiris, an oncoplastic and breast cancer surgeon from Winchester, UK, now in Edmonton specialising in Breast Reconstruction and Oncoplastic Breast Conservation. 

Resources:

(1) Breast Cancer Canada https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/chronic-diseases/cancer/breast-cancer.html

(2) Canadian Task Force Guidelines https://canadiantaskforce.ca/guidelines/published-guidelines/breast-cancer-update/

(3) Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/breast/screening/?region=on

(4) Alberta Health Services - Cancer Guidelines https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/cancerguidelines.aspx

Summary Sheet: BreastCancerandBRCA_Part2_.html

Join us as we explore the importance of pap tests, what really causes cervical cancer and how you can protect yourself. We’ll be discussing the latest guidelines in Canada so you know when your pap is due, how your immune system can fight cervical cancer, what you can expect if you have an abnormal pap, and more! 

Featuring Dr. Schepansky a Gynecologic Oncologist in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta. Her practice is based at the Cross Cancer Institute and the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. She has done work as the Chair of Colposcopy Quality Improvement Committee for the Alberta Cervical Cancer Screening Program.

Resources: 

(1) Screening For Life (includes info on cervical cancer and a risk assessment tool): http://screeningforlife.ca/cervical-cancer-at-a-glance/

(2) Choosing Wisely: https://choosingwiselycanada.org/pap-tests/

(3) Canadian Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/tests-and-procedures/pap-test/?region=on

(4) My Health Alberta: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tw9600

(5) Alberta Health Services - A Patient’s Guide to Colposcopy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57EXw9oU9TA&feature=youtu.be

Summary Sheet: CervicalCancerandPapTests.html

Join us on the Re:pro Health Podcast for our second episode of season 7 where we chat about sexual health education across the lifespan. What are some special considerations when educating youth on topics in sexual health? What about our adult and senior populations? Let’s talk about it! This episode we welcome back the wonderful Heather Cobb! Heather is a trained teacher and sexuality educator with 25 years of experience in sexual health based work. She is also the current President of a non-profit, the Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual health.

Join us as we explore the history of breast cancer treatment throughout the years- from the radical mastectomies of the 20th century to the less invasive lumpectomies and personalized therapies of today. We will be learning about the warning signs of early breast cancer, the various forms that breast cancer can take and how these differ in both their initial and ongoing management as well as their long- term prognosis.

Featuring special guest Dr. Peiris, an oncoplastic and breast cancer surgeon originally from Winchester, UK, now working in Edmonton specialising in Breast Reconstruction and Oncoplastic Breast Conservation. 

Resources:

(1) Breast Cancer Canada https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/chronic-diseases/cancer/breast-cancer.html

(2) Canadian Task Force Guidelines https://canadiantaskforce.ca/guidelines/published-guidelines/breast-cancer-update/

(3) Canadian Cancer Society https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/breast/screening/?region=on

(4) Alberta Health Services - Cancer Guidelines https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/cancerguidelines.aspx

Summary Sheet: BreastCancerandBRCA_Part1_SummarySheet.html

Join us this week as we discuss the wonderful world of vaginal discharge with Dr. De Melo. When is it normal? When should you be concerned? What might you expect from your doctor? Find out in this next installment of our WAP series!

Note: In our discussion, we describe trichomoniasis as a fungal infection, however, it is actually a parasitic infection.

Infographic

Join us in discussing the support of loved ones as they experience menopause in advance of Mother's Day weekend. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Beate Sydora and Dr. Sue Ross to learn more about menopause and how it impacts women's quality of life. 

Has the thought of freezing your eggs crossed your mind? Joining us is Dr. Caitlin Dunne from UBC, a recipient of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 Award. She will discuss options to preserve fertility and in vitro fertilization.

Infographic: IVF Infographic

Welcome to Season 7 of the Re:Pro Health Podcast! 

In this episode, our guest Victoria Groves (she/her) is a Nurse Practitioner, a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and founder of the Menopause Wellness Clinic in Edmonton who is passionate about helping patients make informed decisions about their own health.  Join us as we chat about how different cultures view and experience menopause, the do’s and don'ts of treatments and remedies used in menopause, and common misinformation you may hear. Have a listen and let us know what you think! 

With this episodes we dive deeper into the menstrual cycle and how changes (e.g. discharge and temperature) can give clues into fertility. Joining us is Dr. Vanessa DeMelo, a family physician with an interest in low risk obstetrics and women's health.

Infographic.html 

In this episode, we will be exploring sex work and common myths and misconceptions surrounding it. Joining us are Lula Blue, a full service sex worker for 4 years, and Karyn Jackson, the Team Lead, Prevention & Support at HIV Community Link. Listen in to learn more and challenge your beliefs about sex work.

To learn more, see our Infographic

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of postpartum depression.

Featuring special guest Michelle Brandenburg, a registered psychiatric nurse working at the Reproductive Mental Health Program in Edmonton. 

For more information:

Health Parents Health Children: http://www.healthyparentshealthychildren.ca/postpartum-the-first-six-weeks/needs-and-feelings-of-new-parents/mood-changes-after-having-a-baby/

Canadian Mental Health Association: https://cmha.ca/documents/postpartum-depression 

Resources in Alberta: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services/page15072.aspx

General support services: http://postpartum.org or http://www.postpartum.net 

Join us as we explore some of the most common eating disorders: anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder. Learn everything from the development, management and recovery - to the physical, social and emotional impacts that an eating disorder can have on a person and their loved ones.

Featuring special guest Dr. Ostolosky, a psychiatrist and program director for the Eating Disorders Program at the University of Alberta Hospital. 

Resources:

1. National Eating Disorder Information Centre: http://nedic.ca/

2. Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta: https://edsna.ca/

3. Canadian Mental Health Association (Eating Disorders): https://cmha.ca/mental-health/understanding-mental-illness/eating-disorders

4. National Initiative for Eating Disorders: http://nied.ca/

5. Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders (F.E.A.S.T.): https://www.feast-ed.org/

6. Government of Canada (Mental Health Services): https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services.htm

Summary Sheet:EatingDisordersSummarySheet.html

Joining us for this episode is Neelam Punjani who will discuss the sexual and mental health of adolescents in conservative cultures. She draws a focus on hidden voices as well as exploring ways to improve communication with youth.

Infographic: Sex Ed.html

Resources: https://www.sexandu.ca/

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of ovarian cancer.

Featuring special guest Dr. Alexandra Schepansky, who is a gynecologic oncologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

Basic info: https://ovariancanada.org/About-Ovarian-Cancer/Disease-Basics

For more detail: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tw9687 

For more detail: http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/ovarian/ovarian-cancer/?region=on 

Join us in conversation with Dr. Shawna Stafford to discuss how important body inclusivity and body positivity are in a ObGyn practice for patients and practitioners alike. She shares her own experince as a physician with us along with more pearls of advice.

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Xa24jk_sWSwoBgsojwll0uWveeO7w9VD/view?usp=sharing 

Have you ever heard the term prolapse and wondered what that meant? I know I have.

Donna Wilson, RN (she/her) joins us today to chat about all about prolapse, including some mythbusting on prolapse hot topics (no pessaries dont cause infection and yes you can have sex with prolapse!). She also chats about the ins and outs of pessaries. Take a listen and let us know your thoughts! 

Join us as we explore some of the most common pregnancy related questions, including - weight gain, sex, safe sleeping positions, mood changes, and birth control after baby.

Featuring special Dr. Hirt-Walsh an Edmonton gynecologist/obstetrician.

Resources: 

1) Government of Canada (Resources on having a baby): https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/benefits/having-baby.html

2) Government of Canada (Nobody’s Perfect Program for Parenting): https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/childhood-adolescence/parent/nobody-perfect.html 

3) The MotHERS Program (Information before, during, and after pregnancy for women- based in Ontario): https://www.themothersprogram.ca/

4) MyHealthAlberta (Healthy Parents Healthy Children): https://www.healthyparentshealthychildren.ca/

Summary Sheet: CatchAllPregnancySummarySheet.html

Join us as we explore the fad diet and nutrition trends of the last few decades; the latest research on keto, veganism, intermittent fasting and more; and the newest changes to the Canada Food Guide.  

Featuring special guest Dr. Jin, an Edmonton gastroenterologist at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and the Medical Director of Nutrition Services for the Northern Alberta Zone. 

Resources: 

1. Canada Food Guide: https://food-guide.canada.ca/en/

2. Dietitians of Canada (Nutrition Month March 2019): https://www.dietitians.ca/Media/Nutrition-Month/Nutrition-Month.aspx

3. Alberta Health Services (Nutrition Guidelines and Resources for Healthy Eating) https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/nutrition/Page2929.aspx

4. Government of Canada (Food and Nutrition Links): https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition.html?fbclid=IwAR3px12IdbA6NRwSUUYQMpJh8DpOaAb-Shr6-5uyDVoiiUrWn_zi1EuvTpc

Summary Sheet: NutritionandFadDietsSummarySheet-6.html

Join us for this episode as we welcome back Tami-Lee Duncan to chat with us about sexual resilience! What is sexual resilience? What does empowerment through rebuilding sexual resilience look like and how is it achieved? Tami-Lee is a registered psychologist and owner of Transcend Psychological Services. On this week's episode, Tami-Lee shares her extensive experience working with survivors of sexual violence to answer these questions and more on rebuilding comfort and safety in intimacy and relationships. Please note that this episode discusses subject matter that may be triggering or uncomfortable for some listeners and listener discretion is advised. 

Learn more about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of PCOS.

Featuring special guest Dr. Tarek Motan, who is a reproductive endocrinologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

My Health Alberta: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tw9103  

Join us as we explore everything from the breast is best movement to common challenges mothers face, including simple solutions to improve breastfeeding success and why breastfeeding might not be right for you. Find out why some babies have more trouble feeding, why nipple guards may be hurting your milk supply, how infections and irritations can be avoided, and more! 

Featuring Erika Kalke, a nurse practitioner and lactation consultant working in the Edmonton area. 

Resources:

(1) My Health Alberta:

Breastfeeding: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw91687

Mastitis: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw98039

 (2) Alberta Health Services - Breastfeeding: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/Page14357.aspx

(3) Healthy Parents Healthy Children: https://www.healthyparentshealthychildren.ca/im-a-parent/feeding-your-baby/breastfeeding-basics

(4) Canada Public Health: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/childhood-adolescence/stages-childhood/infancy-birth-two-years/breastfeeding-infant-nutrition.html

(5) 10 Valuable Tips for Successful Breast Feeding: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/childhood-adolescence/stages-childhood/infancy-birth-two-years/breastfeeding-infant-nutrition/valuable-tips-successful-breastfeeding.html

Summary Sheet: BreastfeedingandMastitis.html

Join us as we recap menopause and talk to Dr. Susan Prendergast about hormone replacement therapy and what to expect from your healthcare provider to help you manage menopausal symptoms.

For more information, check out https://www.menopauseandu.ca/
To find out more about Susan Prendergast's clinic, visit https://www.ellithia.com/

Infographic

Join us as we speak to MLA and activist, Janis Irwin, about the journey of exploring and living as one's true self. Through Janis's own story, we explore the struggles our diverse youth face and how we can best support them!

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XsjNrulxQ8LBDt_bCXCAOxE-VTdv52gV/view?usp=sharing 

On today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Ariadne (Ariana) Daniel, a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. She earned her Doctor of Medicine degree and completed residency training at the University of Alberta, completing further training in Toronto. Join us today to discuss different approaches to infertility, each of their components, new emerging treatments, and common misconceptions about infertility.

Join us this week as we speak with psychologist Tami-lee Duncan about healthy sexual function and dysfunction. She gives us an excellent overview of her “sex lecture” and how the mind affects our body in sex. We also explore myths and and how to have conversations about sex!

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g_WGCJN8W8uCbHX3iEDozW8ZKy6Xyixz/view?usp=sharing 

Welcome to the 3rd season of The Re:pro Health Podcast! We're kicking off this season with Dr. Julia Chronopoulos, who discusses the intricacies of adolescent healthcare. Puberty, patient confidentiality, self acceptance...it's all covered right here!

Links and Resources: 

100 vulvas: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-sh/Why_I_Photographed_100_Vulvas
Puberty: https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/puberty.html
Tanner Stages: https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/stages-of-puberty#tanner-stage-3
Tanner stages for females: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Noel-Mueller-2/publication/258327803/figure/fig2/AS:651176785739778@1532264052767/2-Female-Tanner-stages.png
Tanner stages for males: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-illustrations-of-Tanner-stages-printed-on-flash-cards_fig1_241695423

What is perinatal mental health? Is it more than just postpartum depression? Why is accessing care for perinatal mental illness important? Join us as we embark on this journey with Dr. Lucy Barker, a psychiatrist from the University of Toronto, to explore perinatal mental health.

Infographic

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. Hotlines:
780 482 4357 (Edmonton and area)
403 266 4357 (Calgary and area)
403 327 7905 (Southern Alberta)
1 800 232 7288 (Rural Alberta)
1 833 456 4566 (Canada)

www.postpartum.net/

On today's episode, we welcome Dr. Kelycia Leimert (she/her), a senior scientist from the Olson Lab in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Dr. Leimert's research primarily seeks to improve the health outcomes of mothers and children affected by preterm birth. Join us to chat with her about what preterm birth is, potential contributors, and some possible up and coming therapeutics for preterm birth!

Our latest episode is here and we are joined by Marni Panas, LGBTQ activist as she shares her journey and takes us through the different experiences of transgender people. We also dive into various ways to support and create positive spaces for all! 

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AXD-SIPkHI-kz602or6tg_xH6KIcDBSZ/view?usp=sharing 

Today, we’re delving into a crucial topic that impacts countless lives: contraceptives. Joining us is Dr. Kaili Hoffart, a dedicated physician and an integral part of our community. Since completing residency in 2014, she serves a diverse patient base with a special focus on women’s health and prenatal care. Serving as the physician lead for the CAPE clinic in Edmonton, she is deeply involved in community outreach, collaborating with organizations like ARCH and NAIT. Furthermore, she is a passionate educator and helps shape the future of family medicine through teaching and leadership.

*Please note this episode was recorded in February 2024, and since recording the Mirena IUD is now indicated for 8 years for contraception. 

Learn more about the who, what, when, where, and whys of global reproductive health.

Featuring special guest Dr. Cathy Flood, who is a urogynecologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

WHO fact sheets: https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/en/ 

IWHP by the SOGC (to get involved): http://iwhp.sogc.org/index.php?page=about-iwhp&hl=en_US 

Review article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2492587/ 

Joining us on this episode is Dr. Jason Hamm, who shares his approach to navigating interactions with individuals who identify as non-binary and/or transgender, as well as exploring the unique challenges and barriers they often encounter. 

Infographic: Trans(cending)_Health_Infographic.html

Join us as we explore the world of childbirth, including: Braxton Hicks versus true contractions, episiotomies and epidurals, recovery from c- section, and the role of midwives and doulas in labour and delivery.

Featuring special guest Dr. Hirt- Walsh, an Edmonton Obstetrician/ Gynecologist.

Resources: 

1) Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (General Pregnancy Information): www.pregnancyinfo.ca

2) Alberta Health Services (Childbirth and Parenting Education Information): www.birthandbabies.com 

3) My Health Alberta: Health Information and Tools> Labour and Delivery: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tn9759

4) The MotHERS Program (Information before, during, and after pregnancy for women- based in Ontario): https://www.themothersprogram.ca/

Summary Sheet: LabourandDeliverySummarySheet.html

This episode will finish off the fifth season of our podcast. In this final episode, we are joined by Dr. Brotto a leading researcher and expert on mindfulness and its impact on sexual health and well-being at UBC, to discuss how mindfulness can improve sex lives post illness such as cancer or in day-to-day living. 

Thank you for supporting this season of our episode. Please leave a review for our podcast and share your thoughts and suggestions for a chance to win a $20 gift card. This giveaway is open until Friday, June 16th, 2023. 

Join us as we speak with Dr. Laura Sycuro, whose work on the vaginal microbiome has shown her the importance of female reproductive health research, barriers to its development and funding implications. We explore how advocacy plays a role in research to improve healthcare!

Link to Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12ygJd5f34jM33FmuKCH2WRQzwAay7mOl/view?usp=sharing 

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of menstruation!

Featuring special guest Dr. Lisa World, a family physician in Edmonton with a special interest in women's health.

For more information:

From the Sex and U website: https://www.yourperiod.ca

Sex and U is a website managed by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada.

Have questions about sexual violence? Where to get help? What to do when someone shares their experience of sexual violence with you? Joining us is Daniela Chavez Vega, one of the Education Programme Coordinators at the University of Alberta Sexual Assault Centre. 

For those who need to reach out, support services are available at: Assaulted Women’s Helpline 24/7 toll-free at 1.866.863.0511. Further resources are available on our infographic, as well as on your local official provincial health websites.

Infographic.html

Join us together for another episode with Dr. Ameeta Singh, a clinical professor from the University of Alberta with a special interest in sexually transmitted infections and HIV. Listen in on our conversation about the transmission of currently circulating STIs and the new Monkeypox infections. 

Join us as we explore some of the most common non- sexually transmitted infections of the genitourinary tract- learn which symptoms to look out for with both yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, what the risk factors are in developing these infections, and how to combat their recurrence. 

Featuring special guest Dr. Hosford, a family physician from Sherwood Park, located just outside of Edmonton.

Resources: 

(1) Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada: (Guidelines for Yeast Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis): https://www.jogc.com/article/S1701-2163(15)30316-9/pdf

(2) My Health Alberta: Yeast Infections https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw61044

(3) My Health Alberta: Bacterial Vaginosis  https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/pages/conditions.aspx?Hwid=hw53097

Summary Sheet: Genitourinary_YeastUTIBV_SummarySheet.html

Join us for the newest episode of season 7 of the Re:Pro Health Podcast. We are joined by Dr. Jonathan Tankel to dissect the intricacies of being a male obstetrician and gynaecologist (OBGYN). Patient comfort and preference is always a priority, so what are the options for a patient in labour who would prefer to receive care solely from female physicians? Dr. Tankel practices as an OBGYN at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. Listen in as he shares how to navigate the nuances of providing care in sexual and reproductive health spaces as a male physician.

Links to resources: 

CMPA Article:

When patients make special requests, how should you respond: https://www.cmpa-acpm.ca/en/advice-publications/browse-articles/2019/when-patients-make-special-requests-how-should-you-respond

Articles by Dr. Christa Aubrey:

Accommodating Immigrant Women's Preferences for Female Health Care Providers: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28426597/

Perspectives of Immigrant Women on the Gender of Provider During Childbirth: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29274934/

Gender of Provider-Barrier to Immigrant Women’s Obstetrical Care: A Narrative Review: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28625284/ 

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of emergency contraception!

Featuring special guest Dr. Sanja Kostov, who is a family physician in Edmonton with a special interest in women's health. 

This is our last episode for the year, but don't worry, we'll be back with more in the new year!

For more information:

From the Sex and U website: https://www.sexandu.ca/contraception/emergency-contraception/

From the My Health Alberta website: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?Hwid=tb1838

To determine what type of contraception might be best for you, try: https://www.itsaplan.ca

Any other questions about sexual health? Try: https://goaskalice.columbia.edu  

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of the HPV vaccine! 

Featuring special guest Dr. Lisa World, who is a family physician in Edmonton with a special interest in women's health.

For more information: 

The Government of Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/9-valent-hpv-vaccine-clarification-minimum-intervals-between-doses-in-hpv-immunization-schedule.html

The Sex and U website: http://hpvinfo.ca

Remember that scene in Mean Girls where Coach Carr spells out all the ways you will die if you have sex? 

Things have come a long way since then. Learn about the who, what, when, where, why and hows of sexual health education today. 

Featuring special guest Mr. Brady Sherard, a high school teacher in Edmonton with experience teaching the sexual health education curriculum.

For more information:

For students: http://www.compasscentre.ca/home/

For parents: https://teachingsexualhealth.ca   

For educators: http://sieccan.org/pdf/guidelines-eng.pdf

Our latest episode is here and we are joined by Dr. Angel Foster a leading advocate for reproductive health and abortion access to discuss how recent changes have influenced abortion access in Canada in the United States' abortion care laws. 

*This episode was recorded on November 4th, 2022. 

On today's episode, we are joined by Liam and Evan from WiseGuyz. Liam is a public educator who works with the Sexual Assault Centre in Edmonton and is currently completing his Masters in Counselling Psychology. Evan is also a public educator with the Sexual Assault Centre and is the chair of the Indigenous Inclusion Committee. We discuss what WiseGuyz is, what sexual violence is, and how we can further educate and prevent sexual violence.

Join us to explore the ins and outs of urinary tract infections, as part 2 of this series on genitourinary infections. Find out who may be more prone to developing UTIs, why this is the case, and how you can reduce your chances of developing one.

Featuring returning special guest Dr. Hosford, a family physician from Sherwood Park, located just outside of Edmonton.

Resources: 

(1) My Health Alberta: Urinary Tract Infections in Teenagers and Adults https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw57226&lang=en-ca#hw57228

(2) The Kidney Foundation of Canada: Urinary Tract Infections Guidelines/Information: https://www.kidney.ca/document.doc?id=316

Summary Sheet: GenitourinaryPart2_UTI_SummarySheet.html

Learn more about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of dyspareunia.

Featuring special guest Dr. Jonathan Tankel, who is an obstetrician/gynecologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

Sex and U: https://www.sexandu.ca/sexual-activity/concerns-sexual-problems/ 

Quick article: http://www.cmaj.ca/content/cmaj/189/24/E836.full.pdf

Join us for the 74^th Re:Pro Health Podcast episode! We’re so fortunate to have Maureen Callihoo Ligtvoet with us as we discuss the revitalization of Indigenous birthing practices and the importance of culturally safe maternity care. Maureen is a community advocate for truth and reconciliation, a human service professional, and the daughter of a residential school survivor. In this episode she shares her knowledge and experience in traditional Indigenous birthing practices as well as where the healthcare system may be falling short in meeting the needs of Indigenous patients. We’ll also discuss some of the important historical context that continues to result in numerous poor delivery experiences for members of Indigenous communities and what steps healthcare professionals can take to work towards addressing these deficits in care. It’s such a privilege to be part of this discussion and we hope you enjoy listening in!

Learn about the who, what, when, where, why and hows of HIV! 

Featuring special guest Dr. Ameeta Singh, an Infectious Disease doctor in Edmonton who specializes in HIV and STIs. 

For more information:

From the Sex and U website: https://www.sexandu.ca/stis/hiv/

For in-person resources: http://www.hivedmonton.com/get-help/testing

For more in-depth information: https://www.catie.ca/en/basics  

Join us as we continue our conversation on abortion access in Canada. In this episode, we are joined by TK Pritchard, a leading expert on access to abortion in Canada and a champion for sexual health and reproductive justice. We discuss some challenges and barriers to abortion access in Canada and more. 

Learn more about the who, what, when, where, why, and hows of menopause.

Featuring special guest Dr. Tarek Motan, who is a reproductive endocrinologist practicing in Edmonton.

For more information:

Menopause and U: https://www.menopauseandu.ca  

Join us as we explore how proper breast care and mammography is important for continued overall health throughout life. Learn more about what breast pain, nipple discharge, and other breast changes mean and discover what to expect with your first mammogram.

Featuring special guest Dr. Kelly, an Edmonton family practitioner with the Opioid Dependency Program and former Breast Expert for the Comprehensive Breast Care Program in Edmonton. 

Resources: 

1) Government of Canada (Information on Mammography):  https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-risks-safety/radiation/medical/mammography.html 

2) Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Guidelines on Breast Cancer Screening): https://canadiantaskforce.ca/guidelines/published-guidelines/breast-cancer-update/

3) Canadian Cancer Society (Information on Mammography): https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/diagnosis-and-treatment/tests-and-procedures/mammography/?region=on

4) Alberta Health Services (Comprehensive Breast Care Program): https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/service.aspx?Id=1022658

Summary Sheet: BreastCareandMammographySummarySheet.html

Join us as we learn more about the menstrual cycle from Dr. Jane Schulz, the current chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta. We will leave no stone unturned, and will explore questions about what normal periods look like, common misconceptions, PMS, bleeding, missing a period, and when to go see a physician.

Infographic.html 

What is pelvic floor health? What happens when one's pelvic floor does not work properly? What are things we can do proactively to keep it healthy? Joining us is Mary Wood, a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic health from Cura Physical Therapies. Listen in for some takeaways that you can implement immediately at any stage in your life for a healthy pelvic floor.

Infographic.html

In this episode we will be touching on a rarely discussed but common health condition affecting many women at different stages of life: urinary incontinence. 

We will delve into this topic with Dr. Annick Poirier, a urogynecologist working in Edmonton with expertise in the area of pelvic prolapse and other urogynecological concerns. She will share with us the types of urinary incontinence that people may experience, as well as what the various risk factors are and how this condition can be managed with lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and special medical support devices called pessaries. 

Resources:

1. Canadian Continence Foundation: http://www.canadiancontinence.ca
2. My Health Alberta: (Pessaries) https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=zm6192
3. My Health Alberta: (Urinary Incontinence) https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw220313
4. My Health Alberta: (Pelvic Prolapse) https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/pages/conditions.aspx?Hwid=tv1000
5. Alberta Health Services - Pelvic Floor Clinic: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/Service.aspx?id=4336&serviceAtFacilityID=1046148

Summary Sheet: IncontinenceandPessariesSummarySheet.html

In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Ina Park from the University of California, San Francisco to discuss the multifaceted history of sexually transmitted infections. We hope that this episode can build on our previous episode 56 on STIs and Monkeypox and help learn more about STIs.