Taking Control of Women's Hormonal Health with Dr. Steffe D'Ornellas

My Third Bloom

Welcome to the first guest episode for the My Third Bloom podcast! Our host, Tricia Blake sits down for an insightful discussion on women's hormonal health with Dr. Steffe D'Ornellas.

Dr, Steffe is a Naturopathic Doctor and founder of The Hormone Collective. She is a women’s health expert and has a deep passion for helping women learn more about their bodies, especially how their hormones and monthly cycles are connected to their overall health. As a Naturopathic Doctor, she has the honour of blending modern science with natural therapies to look at her patients through a wholistic lens, seeing them as individuals with unique journeys and getting to the root of why they may be unwell. After her interactions with her patients, she hopes that she helps them feel empowered to take control of their health, and remind them that we all have the innate ability to heal.

00:05:27 - The Hormone Collective

The Hormone Collective is an online clinic and resource dedicated to women's health. Founded by Dr. Steffe D'Ornellas, the clinic offers one-on-one consultations, master classes, and educational resources. Dr. D'Ornellas aims to empower women by providing knowledge about their bodies and hormones, filling the information gap that often leaves women in the dark. The Hormone Collective focuses on various aspects of hormonal health, including menstrual cycles, menopause, and fertility. The main hormones discussed are estrogen and progesterone, which play crucial roles in women's overall well-being. By addressing hormonal changes and their impact on physical and emotional health, the Hormone Collective helps women make informed decisions and take control of their health.

00:08:01 - Hormone Transitions

Puberty is a significant transition in a girl's life when her body starts producing more estrogen and progesterone hormones. Dr. Steffe explains that estrogen plays a crucial role in various aspects of a woman's life, including breast growth, menstrual cycles, brain health, heart health, bone health, skin health, muscle development, and libido. Progesterone, another important hormone, acts as a natural antidepressant and antianxiety hormone, contributing to stable moods and better sleep. These hormonal changes during puberty shape a girl's physical and emotional well-being, leading to the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the onset of menstruation. In summary, puberty marks the beginning of a girl's childbearing years, characterized by the production of estrogen and progesterone, which influence various aspects of her health and well-being.

00:10:16 - Progesterone

Progesterone is a crucial hormone that plays a key role in our bodies, particularly in relation to our nervous system. It acts as a natural antidepressant and anti-anxiety hormone, helping to stabilize moods and promote well-being. While estrogen often receives more attention, progesterone is also important in the hormonal balance. It becomes especially significant during the perimenopausal phase, when its levels can fluctuate and impact emotional state. Low progesterone levels can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, and a general sense of not feeling like oneself. Seeking support from a practitioner during this transition is important to ensure a smooth and gradual decline in progesterone levels.

00:12:51 - Hormone Testing and Timing

Hormone testing and timing are crucial in understanding and addressing hormone imbalances. Dr. Steffe, a women's health specialist, explains that hormone fluctuations can cause symptoms like anxiety and depression, especially during perimenopause. To accurately assess hormone levels, it's important to consider the timing of the test. For example, progesterone should be at its peak about a week after ovulation. If it's low during this time, it indicates a need for support. However, hormone testing isn't the only factor in determining hormonal health. Symptoms and context also play a significant role. Dr. Steffe emphasizes the importance of understanding one's unique journey and seeking education and support to make informed decisions about hormone health.

00:21:32 - Sleep and Hormones

Sleep and hormones are closely connected, with sleep quality influencing hormone balance. Poor sleep can disrupt hormone production and regulation, while restorative sleep can optimize hormone function. Gut health also plays a crucial role in hormonal health by absorbing necessary nutrients and eliminating excess hormones. Maintaining good gut health through a whole foods diet can support hormonal balance. Understanding the relationship between sleep, hormones, and gut health empowers individuals to make informed decisions and improve overall well-being.

00:30:26 - Misconceptions about Menopause

Misconceptions about menopause often lead people to believe it will be a difficult experience. However, Dr. Steffe emphasizes that menopause can be a graceful transition, despite the imbalances in the body. One common misconception is that a woman's menopausal experience will mirror her mother's. Dr. Steffe explains that while it can provide insight, it's not definitive. Factors like stress and overwhelm can greatly impact the menopausal experience. Therefore, addressing these underlying issues is crucial for a smoother transition. In summary, the idea that menopause is always terrible is challenged, and the importance of understanding individual experiences and addressing imbalances is highlighted.

Find Dr. Steffe Online:

Website: https://steffed.ca/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.steffed

Find us online:

Website: https://mythirdbloom.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/MyThirdBloom/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-third-bloom/