In this episode, I spoke with Ashley Crafton, CEO of Galena Innovations, about her journey from labor and delivery nurse to medical device innovator. Ashley shared how she developed the Hannah Cervical Cup to prevent preterm labor, inspired by her experiences caring for women losing babies. We discussed her growth as an entrepreneur, including pitching techniques and pursuing further education.

Ashley emphasized the need to address four critical areas in maternal health: mental health disorders, postpartum hemorrhage, gestational hypertension, and preterm birth. Her story exemplifies how healthcare professionals can drive change by identifying problems and developing practical solutions in the medical field.

Timestamps:

(05:30) - The Problem of Preterm Birth

(07:37) - Developing the Hannah Cervical Cup

(12:30) - Overcoming Challenges as an Entrepreneur

(19:00) - How the Cervix Works During Pregnancy

(37:14) - Education for Medical Device Entrepreneurs

(46:51) - Four Key Areas to Improve Maternal Health

Host Bio:

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years at Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords:

Maternal health, preterm labor, medical device innovation, nursing, entrepreneurship, cervical cup, collagen research, pitch competitions, grant funding, Johns Hopkins, NIH grants, mental health, postpartum care, labor and delivery, women's health, medical research, startup funding, healthcare innovation, pregnancy complications, medical education

Mia Chorney, a healthcare expert with over 30 years of experience and co-founder/CMO of The Pause Technologies, discusses women's heart health and menopause in this episode. She shares her personal journey with heart issues and how it led to her passion for women's cardiovascular health. Mia emphasizes the importance of recognizing heart disease symptoms in women, which often differ from those in men. The conversation covers various aspects of women's health during perimenopause and menopause, including hormone replacement therapy, the use of wearables for health tracking, and the importance of proper nutrition and exercise.

Timestamps:

(10:03) Less than 6% of women are on hormone replacement therapy despite many being eligible, due to misconceptions and lack of knowledge.

(20:13) The Pause App uses AI and evidence-based literature to help women navigate menopause, offering personalized guidance and a de-identified community.

(29:36) Wearable devices like the Apple Watch can provide valuable health data and motivation for improving sleep, activity levels, and overall well-being during menopause.

(38:19) Sleep is crucial for overall well-being, affecting mood, weight management, and general health, especially for women getting less than seven hours of sleep per night.

(44:31) Adequate protein intake becomes increasingly important as women age, especially during perimenopause and menopause, to maintain muscle mass, tone, and metabolism.

Host Bio:

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years at Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords:

women's health, menopause, perimenopause, heart health, cardiovascular genetics, hormone replacement therapy, wearable technology, AI, The Pause, lifestyle modifications, protein intake, sleep patterns, data-driven healthcare, cardiovascular symptoms, pelvic health

Dr. Melanie Santos, a urogynecologist specializing in pelvic floor disorders and reconstruction, delves into the often-overlooked issues surrounding pelvic organ prolapse, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infections. Dr. Santos shares insights on the importance of addressing these conditions and the stigma that often prevents women from discussing them. The conversation also highlights innovative solutions like the Cern device that uses visible light therapy to treat vaginal infections without the need for antibiotics or antifungals.

Timestamps:

(00:34) Vaginitis is the number one reason premenopausal women seek medical care and one of the most common reasons for ER visits.

(05:41) Dr. Santos explains that pelvic floor issues can occur later in life due to hormonal changes, weakening muscles, and other medical conditions that develop with age.

(13:34) Over 21 million women in the US have bacterial vaginosis, but only about 15-16% are aware they have it.

(23:05) The Cern device uses safe visible light therapy to treat vaginitis without antibiotics or antifungals, avoiding side effects and not harming good bacteria.

(34:51) Dr. Santos emphasizes the growing importance of virtual healthcare platforms to expand access to women's health services, especially in underserved areas.

Host Bio:

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years at Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords:

urogynecology, pelvic floor disorders, bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, Cern device, vaginal atrophy, telehealth, women's health, pelvic organ prolapse, recurrent vaginitis, maternal health deserts, virtual healthcare platforms

Dr. Neal Lonky, CEO of Histologics and an OBGYN, discusses his revolutionary tissue sampling method for cervical cancer screening. Dr. Lonky shared how his invention, the Kylon fabric, is making colposcopy procedures more compassionate and effective. The Kylon devices significantly reduce patient discomfort compared to traditional metal instruments, while providing high-quality tissue samples for pathologists.

Timestamps:

(00:56) Dr. Neal Lonky developed Kylon, a medical fabric for compassionate tissue sampling in colposcopy and cervical biopsies.

(16:15) Studies show Kylon devices cause less pain and provide better tissue samples than traditional biopsy methods.

(27:21) Kylon fabric contours to surfaces, removing and storing tissue samples that can be easily sent to labs.

(36:58) Clinicians can contact Histologics for free Kylon samples, with about 60 US labs now processing these samples.

(41:30) Histologics expanded Kylon technology to wound care, creating glove-like devices for gentle debridement.

Host Bio:

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years at Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords:

colposcopy, cervical cancer screening, Kylon fabric, compassionate tissue sampling, biopsy. HPV testing, wound care

Varda Messer and Rebecca Sternberg, co-founders of Aquafit, discuss their innovative approach to intimate wellness and self-care products for women. Their company offers a unique vaginal dilator system that combines hydration, pH balance, and pelvic floor muscle training. Varda and Rebecca share insights on their journey into women's health tech innovation and the challenges they've faced in bringing their products to market.

OFFER:

Go to https://aquafit-intimate.com/ and use the Code: FemTechHealth, for 15% off Aquafit products. T

ake the wellness quiz on Aquafit's website to find answers to better understand your vaginal health.

Timestamps:

(03:15) Aquafit was founded to create a better alternative to traditional vaginal dilators, addressing issues like vaginismus, postpartum recovery, and menopausal symptoms.

(11:42) The Aquafit system uses a hydrogel technology that responds to muscle pressure, releases active agents, and helps maintain vaginal pH balance.

(19:30) Varda explains how Aquafit's WhatsApp support system provides a safe space for women to discuss intimate health concerns and get personalized advice.

(27:55) Rebecca discusses the challenges of securing funding for women's health products and the importance of changing societal attitudes towards vaginal health.

(36:10) The co-founders emphasize the need for better education and open conversations about women's intimate health across all ages and life stages.

(44:20) Varda and Rebecca share their motivations for continuing their work despite obstacles, highlighting the positive impact they've seen on women's lives.

Host Bio:

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years at Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords:

Femtech, Women's Health, Pelvic Floor, Vaginal Health, Intimate Wellness, Menopause, Postpartum Care, Self-Care

Gregg Klang, Femtech founder of CERN Corporation, discusses the development of a microbiocidal light device for yeast and bacterial vaginosis treatment. The device offers an alternative to drug-based therapies, catering to those who prefer non-medication options. Greg explains the status of development, including human trials, in vitro and ex vivo testing, and animal testing for safety. Tune in to learn more about his journey into women's health tech innovation with CERN Corporation.

Timestamps

• (01:20) CERN Corporation was founded to develop a non-drug therapy for yeast and bacterial vaginosis, targeting those for whom drug-based therapies are not effective or desired.
• (10:23) The CERN device uses microbiocidal light therapy to target key pathogens associated with yeast and bacterial vaginosis, providing a non-drug treatment option.
• (16:39) The CERN device is designed to accommodate different sizes to ensure comfort and effectiveness for women with varying pelvic floor conditions, including hypertonicity.
• (32:26) Physicians are impressed by the CERN device's approach and potential benefits for patients, expressing interest in its availability and integration into their practices.
• (44:24) The founder of CERN Corporation emphasizes the importance of the team's support and expertise in driving the development and success of the non-drug therapy device.

Host Bio

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years a Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords

Femtech, Women's Health, Pelvic Floor, Breast Cancer, Prenatal & postpartum

Tune in to this episode featuring Anne Duch, owner of Physical Therapy for Women in Delaware, as she delves into her passion for women's health, particularly focusing on the autonomic nervous system in pelvic health. With 27 years of experience, Anne shares insights on the profound impact of the nervous system on pelvic health outcomes and the importance of understanding this connection in patient care. Join the conversation to explore the fascinating intersection of physical and mental well-being in women's health.

Timestamps

• (05:33) Understanding the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for patients, especially in pelvic health therapy.
• (09:28) Introducing the concept of neuroception, where the nervous system senses and responds to stimuli before conscious awareness.
• (18:29) Utilizing touch points along the vagus nerve to promote vagal tone and resilience in the autonomic nervous system.
• (26:01) Exploring various touch points and breathwork techniques to help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation.
• (33:37) Emphasizing the role of the brain in processing somatic information from the body and the importance of mobilizing the nervous system when needed.

Host Bio

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years a Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords

Femtech, Women's Health, Pelvic Floor, Breast Cancer, Prenatal & postpartum

• Suzanne Mulvehill, a clinical sexologist and executive director of the Female Orgasm Research Institute, shares her personal journey with female orgasm difficulty disorder (FOD) and how cannabis helped her overcome it. She discusses her background, the impact of cannabis on her sexuality, and her decision to study and normalize discussions around FOD. Suzanne's story highlights the power of personal experience in driving professional passion and growth.

Timestamps

• (03:15) Understanding the dichotomy between women with orgasm difficulty and those without, where pain is a common complaint for women with orgasm difficulty and low desire for those without.
• (15:51) Highlighting the significant percentage of women who fake orgasms, emphasizing the importance of open communication and normalization of discussions around sexual health.
• (22:40) Emphasizing the importance of the clitoris in female sexuality and debunking the misconception that it is solely for pleasure, highlighting its role in overall health and well-being.
• (38:51) Discussing the significance of deep breathing and relaxation in achieving orgasm, linking the process to an altered state of consciousness and the importance of surrendering to sensations.
• (45:00) Celebrating the recognition of Female Orgasm Disorder as a medical condition and the importance of policy changes to address and treat sexual health issues, promoting collaboration between policymakers and healthcare providers.

Host Bio

This podcast is hosted by Sheree Dibiase, PT ICLM. She is a nationally recognized women's health physical therapist who owns seven private clinics — one of the biggest networks in the US. She has spent 30+ years practicing in the oncology, pelvic floor, and prenatal postpartum healthcare spaces. She was also a professor for seven years a Loma Linda University where she taught kinesiology.

Brought to you by...

https://lakecitypt.com/ - Women's health physical therapy.

https://pelvicfloorpro.com/ - Pelvic floor physical therapy from home.

Keywords

Femtech, Women's Health, Pelvic Floor, Breast Cancer, Prenatal & postpartum