Why do some girls start their periods as early as eight years old? 

In this episode, Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam take us on a lifetime hormonal tour. We track the journey from the ‘magic and mayhem’ of puberty to the ‘window of chaos’ that is perimenopause, exploring how these changing hormones reshape our bodies, our brains, and our moods at every life stage.

We talk to obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Ginny Foo about why periods are starting earlier and what level of pain is actually ‘normal.’ We also speak with endocrinologist Dr Isabelle Smith about the hormone ‘dump’ after childbirth, the myth of the testosterone cure-all for libido, and why your ‘stress cup’ might be overflowing.

Plus, gynaecologist Dr Natasha Andreas joins us to unpack life over 50. We discuss the ‘second puberty’, why oestrogen is the ultimate protector of your heart and bones, and the essential health checks every woman needs to stay ahead of the game as her hormones settle into a new normal.

EPISODE RESOURCES

If this episode has raised concerns for you regarding body image, eating disorders, or chronic illness support, the following resources are available:

• Butterfly Foundation: Support for eating disorders and body image issues. Call 1800 33 4673.

• Jean Hailes for Women's Health: A leading resource for PCOS, hormones and women’s health.

• Diabetes Australia: Information on pre-diabetes management and support.

• Lifeline: If you are feeling overwhelmed and need someone to talk to, please call 13 11 14.

And, if you want to learn more about the topics discussed in today’s show, check out these helpful links:

• MOVE by Mamamia

• Health Direct - Physical Activity Guidelines

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CREDITS

Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam

Guests: Dr Jinny Foo, Dr Natasha Andreadis and Dr Isobelle Smith

Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best

Group Executive Producer: Ilaria Brophy

Audio Producer: Scott Stronach

Video Producer: Julian Rosario

Social Producer: Elly Moore

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.