SHE MD

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common health issues women experience, yet there's still so much confusion about what they are, why they happen, and how they're different from yeast infections and other vaginal conditions. In this episode of Ask Dr. A, Dr. Aliabadi breaks down the anatomy behind UTIs, explains the difference between bladder infections and kidney infections, and shares the symptoms every woman should know.
Dr. Aliabadi also dives into why some women seem to get recurrent UTIs while others never experience them, covering the roles of hydration, sex, genetics, hormones, menopause, and the vaginal microbiome. She explains how bacteria causes infection, why urine cultures are essential for an accurate diagnosis, and the common mistakes that can lead to repeated infections.
Plus, you'll learn evidence-based prevention strategies, including the truth about cranberry supplements, D-mannose, vaginal estrogen, probiotics, and whether peeing after sex actually helps. If you've ever wondered why UTIs keep coming back, or how to lower your risk, this episode is packed with practical information every woman should know.
Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

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What You’ll Learn
The difference between UTIs, bladder infections, kidney infections, and yeast infections
How bacteria enters the urinary tract and causes infection
Common UTI symptoms and warning signs you shouldn't ignore
Why some women are more prone to recurring infections
The role of hydration, sex, and vaginal health in UTI prevention
How menopause and declining estrogen affect urinary tract health
When a urine culture is necessary and why it matters
The truth about cranberry supplements, D-mannose, and other prevention strategies
Why recurrent UTIs may require a deeper investigation

Key Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to She MD Podcast
00:46 UTI, Yeast infection, Bladder infection, and Kidney infection
07:12 E.coli and how you get them in the urethra
13:09 How is the test called?
19:45 What can a woman do for these infections?
29:13 What kind of treatment will help with the infection?
37:15 Vaginal Estrogen Treatment
45:18 How do you address the bacteria?
50:20 How much is too much?
51:40 Let's address some myths
53:33 Final Words

Key Takeaways
UTIs and yeast infections are completely different conditions that affect different parts of the body.
Most UTIs begin as bladder infections caused by bacteria entering the urethra.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious kidney infections.
Hydration, urinating after sex, and avoiding prolonged urine retention can reduce risk.
Vaginal microbiome health plays a major role in preventing recurrent UTIs.
Menopause-related estrogen loss can increase susceptibility to urinary tract infections.
A urine culture is the best way to confirm whether symptoms are truly caused by a UTI.
Cranberry extract and D-mannose may help prevent recurrent infections but are not treatments for active UTIs.
Recurrent infections should prompt an evaluation of underlying causes rather than repeated rounds of antibiotics.
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Joint pain, hip injuries, and mobility issues are often dismissed as an inevitable part of aging, especially for women. But according to renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jason Snibbe, many of the musculoskeletal challenges women face are closely tied to hormonal changes, lifestyle habits, and the way we care for our bodies over time.
In this episode of SHE MD, Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi sit down with Dr. Snibbe to discuss the critical connection between estrogen, bone health, muscle mass, and joint function. They explore why women become more vulnerable to injuries during menopause, how to recognize early warning signs of joint degeneration, and what can be done to stay active and pain-free for decades to come.
Dr. Snibbe also shares his insights on hip replacements, the latest advances in orthopedic surgery, and the practical habits that can help women protect their mobility and maintain strength throughout every stage of life.
Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors
Snibbs: Use promo code “sheMD” for 20% off at Snibbs.co

What You’ll Learn
How menopause and declining estrogen levels affect joints, muscles, and bones
Why women face unique orthopedic challenges as they age
The early signs of joint damage and degeneration to watch for
How strength training supports long-term mobility and injury prevention
What causes hip pain and when it's time to seek medical evaluation
The truth about hip replacement surgery and who may benefit from it
How maintaining muscle mass can improve overall health and longevity
Practical strategies for protecting your joints and staying active for life

Key Timestamps
00:00 PMOS, Muscle Loss & Why This Matters
00:56 Meet The Orthopedic Surgeon Trusted By Hollywood
02:12 Why Women Need To Care About Joint Health Earlier
06:26 Why Women Start Experiencing Joint Pain In Midlife
07:14 What Actually Happens Inside Your Joints
08:48 How Estrogen Protects Your Joints
10:49 Frozen Shoulder Explained
12:30 The Growing Obsession With Peptides
18:16 Do Peptides Increase Cancer Risk?
21:13 Stem Cells, Exosomes & Regenerative Medicine
27:00 Prevention 101: Protecting Your Joints As You Age
31:37 Should Women Stop Running After 40?
32:29 EMS, Creatine & Building Muscle After 40
37:04 When Is It Actually Time For Surgery?
42:31 GLP-1s, Weight Loss & Saving Muscle Mass
45:38 Can GLP-1s Help Protect Your Brain?
47:34 Why Inflammation Makes Recovery Harder
48:47 When Joint Pain Becomes A Serious Problem
52:29 Why Orthopedic Surgeons Aren’t Just Surgeons
53:21 How Robotic Surgery Is Changing Joint Replacements
58:18 Why Some People Need Joint Replacements Earlier
01:00:17 Biggest Myths About Joint Replacement
01:04:19 Building A Hospital Designed Around Recovery

Key Takeaways
Joint health is deeply connected to hormonal health
Estrogen plays an important role in protecting bones, muscles, and connective tissue
Strength training is one of the most effective tools for preserving mobility as we age
Pain should not automatically be accepted as a normal part of aging
Early intervention can help prevent more serious orthopedic problems later in life
Maintaining muscle mass supports balance, strength, and long-term independence
Modern joint replacement procedures can dramatically improve quality of life for the right candidates
Investing in mobility today can have a lasting impact on overall health and longevity

Guest Bio: Dr. Jason Snibbe
Dr. Jason Snibbe is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, sports medicine, and advanced joint preservation techniques. Widely recognized as one of the leading orthopedic surgeons in the country, Dr. Snibbe has treated elite athletes, entertainers, and patients from around the world seeking innovative solutions for joint pain and mobility challenges. A graduate of the University of Southern California School of Medicine, Dr. Snibbe completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and has built a reputation for combining cutting-edge surgical expertise with a patient-centered approach to care.Through his practice, research, and public advocacy, he continues to help patients understand how to protect their joints and preserve quality of life for years to come.
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Addiction affects millions of people, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized medical conditions. This week on SHE MD, Mary Alice Haney sits down with Dr. Sarah Wakeman, a nationally recognized addiction medicine specialist, Harvard Medical School faculty member, and leading advocate for evidence-based addiction treatment.
Dr. Wakeman shares how her experiences treating patients revealed a troubling reality: people struggling with addiction are often treated very differently than those with other chronic illnesses. Together, they explore why addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and what needs to change in healthcare, policy, and public perception.
The conversation also dives into alcohol use, women's unique health risks, pregnancy, breast cancer, and the growing body of research on how alcohol impacts long-term health. This episode is an eye-opening discussion about stigma, recovery, compassion, and the power of treating addiction with science instead of judgment.
Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors
Ka'Chava: Treat yourself to the flavor and nutrition your body craves. Go to kachava.com and use code SKINNY for 15% off your first order. Use code SHE MD at checkout
Osea: Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code SHEMD at oseamalibu.com.
Myriad: Go to GetMyRisk.com to learn more about hereditary cancer testing and how you can use Myriad’s virtual care option for fast, at-home testing - no office visit required.
Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push and GO. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com
David: Buy 4 cartons of Protein Bars and get the 5th free when you go to davidprotein.com/SHEMD.

What You’ll Learn
Why addiction is a chronic medical condition
How stigma impacts addiction treatment
Why women experience alcohol differently
The link between alcohol and breast cancer
Alcohol's effects during pregnancy
Common myths about addiction recovery
What evidence-based addiction care looks like
Why compassion improves outcomes
The role of trauma in substance use disorders
How to support someone struggling with addiction

Key Timestamps
00:00 Why Alcohol Is More Dangerous Than Most People Think
03:02 What Alcohol Actually Does To Your Brain
06:48 Why Some People Become Addicted Faster Than Others
10:42 The Science Behind Alcohol Cravings
14:56 When Drinking Becomes A Real Problem
18:37 Why Addiction Changes Your Brain
22:14 Women & Why Alcohol Affects Them Differently
26:03 Alcohol, Anxiety & The Sleep Problem
30:21 Signs You May Need To Cut Back Drinking
37:05 The Best Treatments For Alcohol Use Disorder
41:36 New Medications That Reduce Alcohol Cravings
44:43 Why Menopause Makes Alcohol Harder To Tolerate
45:37 Teens, Alcohol & Parenting Conversations
46:42 The Biggest Protective Factors Against Addiction
53:05 Why Scare Tactics Fail Teenagers
57:39 How To Help Someone With Alcohol Problems
58:35 Why Tough Love Usually Doesn't Work
01:01:17 Supporting Loved Ones Without Enabling
01:07:58 Questions To Ask Yourself About Drinking

Key Takeaways
Addiction should be treated like any other chronic illness, with evidence-based medical care and long-term support.
Stigma and judgment often prevent people from getting the treatment they need.
Many people with addiction have histories of trauma, adversity, or significant life challenges.
Alcohol carries real health risks, including an increased risk of breast cancer, even at lower levels of consumption.
Women metabolize alcohol differently and may experience greater health impacts than men.
Recovery is possible, especially when treatment is rooted in science, compassion, and individualized care.
Language matters; how we talk about addiction can either reinforce stigma or support healing.
Understanding addiction as a medical condition is essential to improving care and saving lives.

Guest Bio
Dr. Sarah Wakeman is a nationally recognized leader in addiction medicine, a graduate of Brown University, and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. She is double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine and serves as the Program Director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Addiction Medicine Fellowship.
Throughout her career, Dr. Wakeman has been at the forefront of transforming how substance use disorders are treated, advocating for evidence-based, compassionate care that replaces stigma with science. She has helped develop innovative treatment programs, mentored the next generation of addiction medicine specialists, and worked to expand access to life-saving care for patients across the healthcare system.
As a physician, educator, and national thought leader, Dr. Wakeman is passionate about changing the conversation around addiction; helping people understand that substance use disorder is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and that recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.
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On this deeply personal episode of SHE MD, co-host Mary Alice Haney sits down with her lifelong best friend, Stacey Hunt, to share the story of how listening to the podcast led Stacey to advocate for herself, and ultimately, catch her breast cancer early enough to save her life.
After hearing the Olivia Munn episode and learning about lifetime breast cancer risk assessments, dense breast tissue, and the importance of MRIs for high-risk women, Stacey decided to take action. Despite having a recent “clear” mammogram and no symptoms, she pushed for additional testing after learning her lifetime risk score was 28%. That MRI revealed a tiny invasive lobular breast cancer hidden beneath extremely dense breast tissue; something her mammogram missed entirely.
Together, Stacey, Mary Alice, and Thais Aliabadi have an emotional and eye-opening conversation about self-advocacy, early detection, dense breasts, genetic testing, the realities of a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment decisions, reconstruction options, menopause after cancer, and the emotional toll that comes with survivorship. This episode is both a powerful reminder that early detection saves lives and a call for every woman to know her lifetime risk of breast cancer.
Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors
Myriad: Go to GetMyRisk.com to learn more about hereditary cancer testing and how you can use Myriad’s virtual care option for fast, at-home testing - no office visit required.

What You’ll Learn
Why every woman should know her lifetime breast cancer risk score
The difference between 2D and 3D mammograms
Why women with dense breasts may need ultrasounds and MRIs
What the Myriad genetic test measures
The difference between ductal and lobular breast cancer
Why invasive lobular cancer can be harder to detect
How to advocate for yourself when a doctor dismisses your concerns
The emotional reality of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis
The connection between menopause, breast cancer, and hormone replacement therapy
Non-hormonal options for managing menopause symptoms after breast cancer
Why repetition and education empower women to take control of their health

Key Timestamps
00:00 Why You’re Tired Even When You’re Doing Everything Right
01:40 The Random Phone Call That Changed Everything
02:30 This Story Honestly Scared Me
03:29 The Podcast Episode That Literally Saved Her Life
04:14 The Breast Cancer Test Nobody Told Her About
05:42 She Got Her Results Back… And Freaked Out
09:16 Her Doctor Basically Said “You’re Fine”
11:58 When Your Doctor Makes You Feel Dramatic
13:26 The MRI That Found What Everyone Missed
14:11 The Type Of Breast Cancer That Hides
16:49 The Call Nobody Ever Wants To Get
19:18 What Having Cancer Actually Feels Like
22:50 Why She Removed Both Breasts
30:44 The Hormone Question Everyone is Asking
41:58 How Cancer Completely Changed Her Perspective
43:49 The Advice Every Woman Needs To Hear

Key Takeaways
Early detection can dramatically improve breast cancer outcomes, especially for aggressive or hard-to-detect cancers.
Dense breast tissue can make mammograms less effective, which is why additional imaging may be necessary.
A normal mammogram does not always mean you are cancer-free.
Knowing your lifetime risk of breast cancer can help determine the right screening protocol for you.
Self-advocacy can save your life, even when medical professionals initially dismiss your concerns.
Invasive lobular breast cancer is often more difficult to detect than ductal breast cancer.
Every woman’s treatment journey is personal, and mental health and peace of mind matter when making decisions.
There are non-hormonal ways to manage menopause symptoms after breast cancer.
Community, education, and shared experiences can empower women to take action for their health.
The “SHE MD effect” is real: informed women help save other women’s lives.

Guest Bio
Stacey Hunt is a breast cancer survivor, mother, and longtime friend of Mary Alice Haney whose life was changed after listening to SHE MD. Inspired by the podcast’s conversations around breast cancer risk assessments and early detection, Stacey advocated for additional screening despite having a recent negative mammogram and no symptoms. Her persistence led to the discovery of an early-stage invasive lobular breast cancer hidden beneath extremely dense breast tissue; a diagnosis that may have otherwise gone undetected for years.
In this powerful episode, Stacey shares her deeply personal journey through diagnosis, self-advocacy, treatment, and recovery, offering an inspiring reminder of the importance of knowing your risk, trusting your instincts, and speaking up for your health.

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Celebrity makeup artist Ash K Holm joins Thais Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney for an emotional conversation about living with PCOS, endometriosis, fertility struggles, and finally finding answers after years of being dismissed.
Known for working with icons like Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, and the Kardashian family, Ash reveals the painful health battle happening behind the scenes of her fast-paced Hollywood career.
Ash opens up about suffering from debilitating cramps, 11-day periods, bloating, hormonal symptoms, depression, insulin resistance, and years of being told her symptoms were “normal.” She shares how her diagnosis with PCOS and endometriosis changed her life, the lifestyle and treatment changes that helped her regain her health, and the emotional journey toward pregnancy and motherhood.
Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors
Prolon: For a limited time, Prolon is offering She MD listeners 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program!
Gusto: Try Gusto today at Gusto.com/SheMD, and get three months free when you run your first payroll.
Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push and GO. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com
R+Co: Visit randco.com and use code SheMD20 for 20% off your first order.
Transcendental Meditation: Curious about Transcendental Meditation? Find a certified teacher near you and begin your journey today. Go to TM.org/SheMD

What You’ll Learn
PCOS, insulin resistance, and inflammation explained
The truth about postpartum hormone changes
Breastfeeding, pumping, and postpartum burnout
Why postpartum recovery takes longer than six weeks
How to advocate for yourself in healthcare
Breast cancer risk and genetic testing
When to start breast screenings and mammograms
How AI is changing women’s health
Ash’s rise from MAC counter to celebrity makeup artist
Ash K Holmes’ scoliosis and spinal surgery journey
Why Ash chose a planned C-section
Why consistency matters more than talent
Trusting your intuition when it comes to your health

Key Timestamps
00:00 Meet Ash K. Holmes Makeup Artist & New Mama
03:11 How She Built a Career with Zero Connections
08:59 The Moment Khloé Kardashian Called
12:40 Her PCOS & Endometriosis Journey Begins
17:05 11-Day Periods, Exhaustion & Hitting Rock Bottom
18:06 Being Dismissed by Doctor After Doctor
23:00 Finally Getting the Right Diagnosis
27:37 What Tests Every Woman Should Actually Get
34:07 The Treatment Plan That Changed Her Life
41:18 PCOS, Endometriosis & Getting Pregnant
52:30 Pregnancy with Scoliosis The Hospital Refused Her
59:32 C-Section Planning & the Epidural Risk
1:07:22 Life After Baby Hormones & Recovery
1:13:49 Family History of Breast Cancer & Genetic Testing
1:21:46 Favorite Red Carpet Moment The Met Gala
1:29:01 What She Wants Every Woman to Know

Key Takeaways
Severe scoliosis can impact lung and heart function if left untreated
PCOS increases the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm labor
Endometriosis can affect inflammation, placental health, and pregnancy outcomes
Postpartum hormone changes can affect mood, metabolism, skin, and energy for months
Recovery after pregnancy is often much longer than the standard six-week timeline
Breastfeeding and pumping can take a major toll on physical and emotional health
Genetic testing and early screenings can help detect risks before symptoms appear
AI and new imaging technology are changing the future of preventative healthcare

Guest Bio
Ash K Holm is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist, educator, and social media personality. Her ability to create glamorous looks and glowing skin have made her a favorite with clients such as Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Megan Fox, Shay Mitchell, Camila Cabello, and more.
Her work has appeared in the pages of Flaunt, Nylon France, and Vogue Latin America, as well as on Bustle, and she has collaborated with brands such as BUXOM Cosmetics, Coach, Paige Denim, Mango, Nudestix, ColourPop, Swarovski, and Wet n Wild. Holm is a Who What Wear editor in residence, and the co-founder of LA-based medspa Dripology.
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