A Healthy Power Portal: Taking Control of Your Vaginal Health with herbalist Kathie Bishop
About this episode
Marion Mackonochie interviews herbalist Kathie Bishop about vaginal health and holistic strategies for managing it.
In this episode of Herbcast, Marion Mackonochie talks with medical herbalist Kathie Bishop about vaginal health, why it’s so often overlooked, how the vaginal microbiome really works, and the herbal and holistic strategies that can make a difference. Kathie shares her personal story of recurrent thrush from childhood into her 30s, what finally helped, and why every person’s microbiome and needs are unique. In this episode: The vaginal microbiome 101 - lactobacilli, glycogen, and the powerful role of oestrogen across the cycle and life stages. Thrush vs. bacterial vaginitis (and aerobic vaginitis), why thrush often flares around ovulation/post-ovulation, why BV is more common post-menopause, and practical symptom clues (itch, discharge, odour) to tell them apart. Testing without the anxiety - when microbiome tests help (and when they don’t), plus why symptom-led care with a practitioner can be enough. Herbal care & applications Everyday choices that matter - hygiene (only water internally), breathable underwear (cotton/bamboo), managing heat and moisture, toilet paper swaps (bamboo to avoid dusty pulp irritation), and exploring personal diet triggers (e.g., sugar, alcohol…
People in this episode
Host: Marion Mackonochie
Guest: Kathie Bishop
Topics covered
- vaginal health
- vaginal microbiome
- herbal strategies
- holistic care
- symptom management
- personal health
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: National Institute of Medical Herbalists
Books & works: It’s Your Power Portal: Take Control of Your Vaginal Health with Herbal and Holistic Care
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- Endometriosis Naturally: Herbs, Healing & Hormones with Claire Goulding
- Caring for Women with Cancer: How Herbs can Help with Herbalist Nadia Brydon
- Navigating Complex Conditions in Practice with Simon Mills and Dr Christopher Etheridge
- Ancient Wisdom for Modern Fertility: Chinese Herbal Approaches with Naava Carman
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