The Laura Dowling Experience

Send us a textThis week we’re revisiting our most popular episode from February 2024, with Dr. Deirdre Lundy, a specialist in women’s health and menopause, and author of The Menopause. Dr. Lundy shares her expertise on the physical and emotional changes of menopause, offering practical tips for managing symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, weight gain, and vaginal health.We also tackle myths about treatment options for women post-cancer or with a family history of cancer, and highlight solutions for those unable to use HRT. Whether you’re navigating menopause yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode is packed with understanding and empowering guidance. Tune in to revisit this open and honest conversation!This episode is brought to you by Viva La Vulva at the National Concert Hall. Join me and my esteemed guests on March 1st for open, honest conversations on women's health. Topics include pelvic floor health, sexual wellness, peri & menopause, and longevity, with expert advice to empower and inform. Tickets available at nch.ie!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

Send us a textThis week we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes from April 2023, with Dr. Sarah Callaghan, a GP specializing in women’s health and a true champion for women. In this episode, we dive into the big questions around perimenopause and menopause, including how to manage loneliness and anxiety, whether testosterone can boost libido, and what to do about the seemingly inevitable weight gain.This episode is for anyone going through menopause or perimenopause, as well as their partners, friends, and colleagues who want to better understand and support them. With Dr. Callaghan’s insights, you’ll feel empowered to seek help and reassured that you’re not alone on this journey. Tune in to revisit this open and honest conversation!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Dr. Clare Cromwell, a leading menopause specialist and GP based in Cork, about empowering women to take charge of their midlife health. We discuss the role of muscle strength in cognitive health, how strength training can help prevent dementia, and why estrogen is vital for bone density. Dr. Cromwell offers practical advice on navigating perimenopause, menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and pelvic floor health.We also dive into the challenges of researching estrogen, the potential for self-monitoring technologies in the future, and how fluctuating hormone levels impact women during perimenopause. Dr. Cromwell highlights the connection between muscle health and brain health, the importance of lifestyle choices, and the need for early menopause education to foster understanding and empathy from a young age.From tackling bone, muscle, and brain health to advocating for cultural shifts that prioritise strength and self-acceptance, this episode is packed with insights to help women embrace midlife with confidence. Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation!This episode is brought to you by Tena, the experts in bladder weakness. If you’re one of the many people dealing with urinary incontinence, it doesn’t have to stop you from living your life. Tena’s range of products includes discreet liners, absorbent pads, and silhouette pants to keep you protected and comfortable.Tena products quickly absorb moisture and lock in odours, so you can feel confident and fresh all day. You’ll find Tena in Tesco, Dunnes, Supervalu, and leading pharmacies. And if you’re experiencing regular leaks, don’t hesitate to speak with a healthcare professional.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

Send us a textIn this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid, to have an open and vital conversation about gender-based abuse. We discuss the harsh realities of psychological and emotional abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and coercive control. We consider the societal norms that enable these issues, and the alarming rise in abuse during the holiday season.Our discussion highlights the challenges faced by survivors, as Sarah sheds light on the complexities of post-separation abuse, including financial manipulation, and the urgent need for legislative reform to protect survivors. We also reflect on the case of Nikita Hand and the often harrowing court process for sexual abuse cases, emphasizing the need for systemic change. We explore the broader societal influences that contribute to gender-based abuse, from pornography to perceived gender roles, and the responsibility of both men and women in fostering change. This episode calls for awareness, action, and cultural shifts to create a safer, more equal society for everyone. Tune in for a thought-provoking and compassionate conversation.This episode discusses sensitive topics, including domestic and sexual abuse, which some listeners may find distressing. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, support is available. Please reach out to the Women’s Aid 24-hour National Freephone Helpline at 1800 341 900 or visit www.womensaid.ie for more resources. You are not alone.This episode is sponsored by BURST Oral Care, the brand revolutionising oral care with fresh, fun, and effective products. Just in time for the holiday season, BURST’s PAP-powered whitening products are now available in Ireland at McCauley’s, Mulligan’s, and Adrian Dunne Pharmacies. Perfect for keeping your smile bright and fresh through all the festive celebrations.Their latest innovation, Teeth Whitening Breath Strips, dissolve on your teeth to whiten up to 2.5 shades while freshening your breath with a polar mint kick. Say goodbye to red wine stains and stale breath this holiday season—these strips are your new secret weapon for a dazzling smile! Follow @burstoralcare on Instagram for updates and offers, or grab yours in-store today.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.