In this essential episode of The Healing Catalyst, Dr. Avanti Kumar Singh is joined by OB-GYN and menopause expert Dr. Jila Senemar to break down the myths, science, and emotional realities of perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

Together, they discuss why so many women feel unprepared—and often misdiagnosed—during this time of life, and why hormonal changes are frequently mistaken for mental health issues or stress. Dr. Jila provides clear, clinical definitions of perimenopause and menopause, walks us through what’s happening with hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and shares why symptoms such as anxiety, memory lapses, weight gain, and even autoimmune flare-ups are part of a much bigger picture.

The conversation dives into the myths around hot flashes, the surprising symptoms no one talks about, and why menopause is a health milestone that affects your heart, bones, brain, and long-term vitality. Dr. Jila also shares actionable tips around movement, nutrition, mindset, and hormone therapy, making this a compassionate and science-informed guide to thriving in midlife.

Whether you're just starting to notice changes, feeling overwhelmed by symptoms, or want to better support someone you love, this episode is the clear, grounded starting point we all need.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

(06:15) Why hormone therapy (HRT) was misunderstood for years—and what we now know
(10:54) Clear definitions of perimenopause, menopause, and the timeline in between
(27:20) How subtle symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and brain fog are hormonal—and often missed
(29:30) Understanding the hormonal shifts of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone
(32:32) The surprising link between postpartum depression and menopause
(33:11) How menopause affects mental health—and what you can do about it
(35:17) Ayurvedic insights into the hormonal transition of menopause
(37:20) Why weight gain in midlife is tied to insulin resistance and hormonal fluctuation
(42:56) The role of HRT and GLP-1s in managing metabolic changes during menopause
(45:57) Longevity and menopause: how this transition impacts heart, brain, bone, and metabolic health
(48:46) How menopause can trigger or worsen autoimmune symptoms
(50:41) Sleep disruption: what causes it and how to improve it during perimenopause

This episode is your guide to understanding the stages of menopause, recognizing overlooked symptoms, and making informed choices about hormones, mood, weight, and long-term health.

About Dr. Jila Senemar:

Dr. Jila Senemar, M.D., FACOG is the founder of JilaMD, a concierge women’s health practice focusing on perimenopause, menopause, hormone therapy, metabolic optimization, and longevity science. She is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with over 20 years of clinical experience dedicated to advancing women's health. She earned her M.D. at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed her residency and chief residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

Dr. Jila has held academic roles at the University of Miami and Florida International University, and served as Associate Medical Director of OB-GYN Triage at Jackson Memorial Hospital. She is also the founder of The Miami Menopause Collective and EmpowHer Miami, two initiatives focused on education and empowerment during midlife.

An active member of the North American Menopause Society, the Florida Obstetrics and Gynecology Society, and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Jila blends clinical excellence with a deeply compassionate, patient-centered approach. Her work is grounded in the latest research, personalized care, and a mission to help women embrace vitality through all phases of life.

Connect with Dr. Jila Senemar:

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Resources:

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The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Podcast episode production by Dante32.

Menopause 101: The Symptoms, Myths and Solutions Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Jila Senemar