In this episode, Mandy wraps up her conversation with Karen Bester, diving into how to get the help and support you need during perimenopause and menopause. From advocating for yourself in the doctor’s office to embracing the confidence and clarity of “menopausal zest,” this is an empowering finale to our three-part series.
Expect:
How to choose the right medical professionals for menopause and sexual health concerns
The questions to ask before starting medication or HRT and why time, adjustments, and follow-ups matter
Using a menopause diary and tracking apps to understand your symptoms
Getting your doctors to work together for whole-patient care
Why “menopausal zest” is the next chapter of life you should be aiming for
A practical, upbeat episode to help you take charge of your health and look forward to what’s next.
Subscribe for more: whatthemenopause.substack.comGet in touch: whathemenopause@gmail.com
1 Sept 2025
The Sex Series: Part 02 with Karen Bester
In this episode, Mandy continues her conversation with Medical Training Manager at Lamelle Research Laboratories, Karen Bester but this time looking at what we can do to keep intimacy alive in menopause and perimenopause. From lifestyle shifts to medical interventions, it’s about taking charge of your sexual health now to protect your future self. Karen also shares insight into Lamelle’s soon-to-launch new formulation of Lady Prelox, a clinically proven non-hormonal supplement that supports women through menopause symptoms and boosts sexual function.
Expect:
Why loss of libido can happen earlier than you think
The lifestyle basics that boost sexual health: protein, strength training, sleep, and cutting back on sugar, alcohol, and smoking
How pelvic floor exercises, vaginal oestrogen, and probiotics can help with dryness, UTIs, and comfort
The surprising connection between bladder health and sexual wellbeing
Why soap choice matters more than you realise
How to communicate openly with your partner and adapt intimacy to your changing needs
Practical advice, medical know-how, and the confidence to say “this matters” when it comes to your sexual health.
Subscribe for more: whatthemenopause.substack.comGet in touch: whathemenopause@gmail.com
12 Aug 2025
The Sex Series: Part 01 with Karen Bester
Karen Bester joins Mandy to talk about sex, sexuality, and the menopause years and why our Gen X upbringing shaped how we think about intimacy, and what’s really happening to our bodies and brains. From hormones to humour, it’s a candid look at reclaiming pleasure and connection.
20 Jul 2025
Sleep Series: Part 03 with Dr Alison Bentley
Dr Alison Bentley returns for the final part of the Sleep Series to bust the eight-hour myth and share what actually works when sleep goes sideways in perimenopause. From smart prep for your GP to surprising truths about sleeping pills, this episode is your crash course in getting real rest.
8 Jul 2025
The Sleep Series: Part 02 with Dr Alison Bentley
Dr. Alison Bentley explains how sleep disorders such as apnea and restless legs syndrome frequently go undiagnosed in women, and shares surprising treatments to reclaim sleep in this interview.
20 Jun 2025
The Sleep Series: Part 01 with Dr Alison Bentley
Dr. Alison Bentley discusses sleep disruption during midlife with Mandy and Tamsin, highlighting potential medical causes beyond hormonal changes in this interview.
17 Jun 2025
The HRT Series: Part 03 with Dr Sumayya Ebrahim
Dr. Sumayya Ebrahim discusses synthetic and bioidentical hormone replacement therapies, including creams, in this interview episode.
4 Jun 2025
The HRT Series: Part 02 with Dr Sumayya Ebrahim
Dr. Sumayya Ebrahim, a gynaecologist, discusses the facts and fears surrounding HRT with Mandy and Tamsin, unpacking a 2002 study and exploring estrogen's benefits for brain function, heart health, and diabetes prevention in this interview.
30 May 2025
The HRT Series: Part 01 with Dr Sumayya Ebrahim
Dr. Sumayya Ebrahim discusses hormone replacement therapy, hormonal changes, and unexpected menopause symptoms with Tamsin and Mandy in an interview.
22 May 2025
Sitting down with a GP: Part 02
Dr. Chrissy du Plessis explains the various symptoms of menopause, including atrophy, brain fog, and mood swings, highlighting the lack of a definitive end in this interview episode.
21 May 2025
Sitting down with a GP: Part 01 Remastered
Dr. Chrissy Dupy defines menopause, explores its early onset, and acknowledges the challenges women face during this transitional phase in an interview.
21 May 2025
Episode 02: What are perimenopause and menopause?
Hosts Mandy Collins and Tamsin Mackay explore the definitions, symptoms, and personal experiences related to perimenopause and menopause.
21 May 2025
Episode 01: What is it?
Hosts Mandy Collins and Tamsin Mackay explore the initial signs and confusions surrounding menopause, including hormonal changes and dismissive medical opinions.
Who has been a guest on What the menopause
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Dr Alison Bentley
Dr Sumayya Ebrahim
Dr Chrissy du Plessis
Dr Chrissy Dupy
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
929,621
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 44 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
51
Social presence
0
YouTube
93
Engagement
0
Contact What the menopause
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of What the menopause?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
