Is It Hot In Here? Midlife Podcast

❤️ Win a year's worth of Menopause Care appointments by entering our giveaway here: https://bit.ly/4t3ELhbConfused about HRT in menopause?Today Dr Naomi Potter is answering as many questions as possible about HRT – all sent in by our lovely listeners. From what to do if progesterone affects your mood or sleep, to why vaginal oestrogen is still so underused, you can expect these frequently asked questions to be addressed with clear, practical, reassuring advice. 💬 Topics include:• How to know if you need HRT• Can you take HRT in your 30s?• HRT and endometriosis• What to do if one HRT product doesn’t suit you• Bleeding on HRT• Taking HRT while still having periods• Progesterone, mood and sleep• Mirena coil and progesterone• Stopping HRT suddenly• Testosterone and PCOS• Vaginal oestrogen and recurrent UTIs• HRT alternatives and supplements• Anxiety after starting HRTFollow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/#hrt #perimenopause #menopause

Not being taken seriously about menopause or HRT?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by fellow menopause specialist Dr Liz Andrew to break down exactly how to get the most out of your GP appointment, and what to do if you’re dismissed.From knowing what to say, to understanding your options around HRT, this episode gives you the tools to advocate for yourself with confidence. If you’ve ever left an appointment feeling unheard, this is essential listening.Follow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Liz Andrew: Liz's Instagram: @drlizandrewFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/#gp #perimenopause #diagnosis

In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT gels and sprays — two of the most commonly prescribed forms of transdermal oestrogen. Whether you're interested in trying Lenzetto Spray or Estradiol gel, this episode will be massively helpful for you.If you’ve ever felt confused about HRT dosing, absorption, or which option to choose, this episode will give you clear, practical answers.💬 Topics include:• HRT gels vs sprays: key differences explained• How to apply oestrogen gel correctly (and common mistakes)• Why absorption varies between women• What to do if your HRT isn’t working• How to safely adjust your dose• The benefits of transdermal HRT (lower clot risk)• How long you can stay on HRT• Practical tips to fit HRT into your daily routineFollow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Intro: HRT Gels vs Sprays Explained00:35 – HRT Gel: How It Works & How To Use It02:43 – Where & When To Apply Gel (Key Tips)05:52 – Why Choose Gel? (Pros & Practicalities)06:39 – HRT Spray (Lenzetto): What It Is & How It Works07:32 – Spray vs Gel: Dosing & Key Differences08:49 – Spray Pros & Cons (Absorption & Ease)10:01 – When To Replace Your Spray (Important!)10:46 – How Long Can You Stay On HRT?11:32 – Switching Between Gel & Spray12:35 – Why Transdermal HRT Is Safer#hrt #menopause #perimenopause

Menopause or midlife crisis?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by comedian Zoe Lyons for a funny, raw and surprisingly moving conversation about what menopause can really do to your mind, confidence, work and relationships. Zoe opens up about the hot flushes that hit out of nowhere, the depression and rage that followed, and why she bought a sports car.Together, Naomi and Zoe talk about HRT, testosterone, brain fog, motivation, exercise, therapy and the strange grief of feeling like you’ve lost the version of yourself you used to know. If you’ve been feeling flat, overwhelmed, unlike yourself or tempted to run away from your life, this episode will make you feel very seen.💬 Topics include:• Menopause symptoms • Why menopause can feel like a midlife crisis• Menopause at work• Relationship strain during midlife • HRT for menopause symptoms• Menopause rage• Brain fog• Testosterone in women• Exercise and running for menopause • Body image and ageingFollow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Zoe Lyons below:Zoe’s Instagram: @zoelyonscomedyListen to Zoe's running & comedy podcast The Running Joke: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Hd4lR0ynIlEcSvMRNGrPv?si=fe38e79a62744a5fFollow Dr Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/0:00 – Zoe Lyons on perimenopause and comedy1:29 – Zoe’s first symptoms and starting HRT2:31 – Covid, midlife crisis and everything falling apart5:56 – How therapy helped save Zoe’s relationship9:48 – Why menopause changed her confidence and work13:42 – Depression, low mood and menopause15:07 – How running helped her mental health19:06 – Zoe’s HRT journey: tablets, gel and progesterone24:20 – Brain fog, low motivation and low testosterone32:00 – Why menopause information still feels confusing33:49 – Can you stay on HRT forever?38:05 – Menopause hair loss, skin changes and aging43:10 – Is it a midlife crisis or perimenopause?45:20 – How to reconnect with your ageing body#menopause #midlifecrisis #zoelyons

How do you know if your HRT dose is right?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter explains how to tell whether your HRT is actually working - and why finding the right dose is rarely as simple as 'more or less'.Naomi breaks down the biggest signs that your Hormone Replacement Therapy may need adjusting, why HRT is always a little bit of trial and error, and how your symptoms, lifestyle, absorption and medical history all shape what dose is right for you.💬 Topics include:• How to know if your HRT dose is right• Signs your HRT is working• When your oestrogen dose may be too low• Why some women need a higher HRT dose• How side effects can guide HRT adjustments• Why HRT is never one-size-fits-all• Poor absorption of transdermal HRT• How swimming, heat, moisturiser and routine can affect HRT• Why HRT needs can change over time in perimenopause• How to find the best HRT regime for your lifestyleFollow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterStay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterFor more information and support about menopause, you can go to: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Introduction: How to know if your HRT dose is right00:32 – How doctors decide your starting HRT dose01:30 – When you might need a different approach (medical history)02:20 – Why HRT dosing is trial and error03:25 – No “perfect dose” – how to find what works for you04:16 – Tip 1: Are your symptoms improving?04:48 – Tip 2: Feeling like yourself again05:30 – Tip 3: Finding an HRT routine that fits your life06:47 – Lifestyle factors that affect HRT (exercise, swimming, heat)07:34 – Tip 4: Choosing the right HRT regimen for your body08:48 – Tip 5: Are you a “poor absorber”?09:56 – Final sign: When symptoms quietly disappear10:42 – Why HRT needs change over time#menopause #perimenopause #hrt

Bleeding during menopause? Find out when this is normal – and when you should see a doctor.Unexpected bleeding in menopause can feel frightening, but it's actually more common than you may think and often nothing to worry about. To clear any confusion, in this episode, menopause specialist Dr Naomi Potter explains the key differences between bleeding in perimenopause, bleeding while taking HRT, and bleeding after menopause. She breaks down when bleeding is completely normal, when doctors investigate further, and why you should never ignore certain symptoms.💬 Topics include:• Why bleeding patterns change in perimenopause• What unscheduled bleeding on HRT means• When bleeding should be investigated by your doctor• The most common causes of post-menopausal bleeding• Common benign causes like fibroids and polyps• Why bleeding after menopause should be checked• Treatments that can help control heavy or disruptive bleedingStay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterFor more information and support about menopause, you can go to: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Bleeding in perimenopause explained00:32 – What bleeding changes are normal in perimenopause01:12 – When heavy periods should be investigated01:45 – Causes of heavy bleeding (fibroids, polyps, endometrial changes)02:05 – Bleeding when starting HRT02:35 – Unscheduled bleeding on HRT (first 3–6 months)03:05 – When bleeding on HRT needs investigation03:35 – Transvaginal ultrasound: what doctors look for04:15 – Treatments to control bleeding (progesterone, Mirena, dose changes)04:55 – When to contact your doctor urgently05:30 – Managing ongoing bleeding on HRT06:05 – Treatments for heavy periods (Mirena, medications, surgery)06:45 – How common abnormal bleeding investigations are07:15 – Most common cause of bleeding after menopause (GSM)07:55 – Where to find trusted menopause advice#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

Are HRT patches safe – and why do they sometimes stop working?In this week’s episode, menopause doctor Dr Naomi Potter breaks down everything you need to know about HRT patches — how they work, how to use them properly, and why so many women get confused or frightened by the information leaflet.If you’ve ever wondered whether your patch is working properly – or worried after reading the warnings inside the box – this episode will put your mind at ease.💬 Topics include:• What HRT patches contain (body identical oestradiol explained)• Estrogen-only vs combined patches (Avorel, Evorel Conti, Estradot)• How to use patches correctly (placement, timing & routine)• What to do if your patch falls off• Why swimming, baths & moisturiser affect absorption• The real risk of breast cancer, stroke & heart disease• Common side effects (bleeding, breast tenderness, nausea)• What to do if your HRT “stops working”• Patch allergies & adhesive reactions• Why switching brands can cause problemsFollow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at:https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – What Are HRT Patches? (Body-Identical Estrogen Explained)00:29 – Types of Estrogen Patches: Estradot vs Larger 100mcg Patches02:32 – Patch Doses: 50 vs 100 Micrograms (Can You Cut Them?)03:00 – Do You Need Progesterone With Estrogen Patches?03:55 – Using the Mirena Coil With HRT04:46 – Everel Sequi vs Everel Conti (Combined HRT Patches Explained)06:59 – Patch Residue, Wrinkling & Adhesive Problems07:43 – New Combined Estradot Patch (What’s Coming Next?)08:08 – HRT Patch Leaflet Warnings: Breast Cancer, Stroke & Heart Risk09:44 – HRT Patch Side Effects (What’s Normal?)10:48 – Benefits of Patches: Twice Weekly Dosing11:12 – Swimming, Baths & Sauna: Do They Affect Absorption?12:24 – What To Do If Your Patch Falls Off13:22 – “My HRT Stopped Working” – Dose & Batch Issues14:09 – Maximum HRT Patch Dose (100mcg Explained)14:26 – Are You a Good or Poor Absorber?15:14 – How To Apply Patches Properly (Avoid These Mistakes)15:38 – GP Prescribing, Brand Switching & Why It Matters16:06 – Why Not All HRT Patches Feel The Same#hrt #hrtpatch #menopause

What happens when you stop drinking in midlife – and everything starts to change?In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by acclaimed crime author, former criminal barrister and The Traitors star Harriet Tyce. Harriet opens up about the turning points that led her to quit alcohol, why it became the “bedrock” for feeling better, and the mindset shifts that helped her rebuild confidence in her 50s.They also dive into what The Traitors is really like behind the scenes – plus the simple, practical tools Harriet relies on when anxiety or rumination hits.Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Harriet Tyce on Instagram: @harriet_tyceOrder Harriet's new book Witch Trial: https://www.waterstones.com/book/witch-trial/harriet-tyce/9781035411917Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 Welcome Harriet Tyce + The Traitors intro03:02 Middle-aged women on The Traitors (strategy + being heard)06:01 Stepping into power in midlife09:03 From English degree to choosing law12:02 Criminal Bar realities + drinking culture15:04 Motherhood, leaving the Bar, and finding writing18:03 Blood Orange breakout success + why books struggle to cut through21:05 Pressure after success + writing process + audience growth24:01 Witch Trial plot, research, and the “dark imagination”27:02 Alcohol history + last drink (6 June 2022)30:01 How sobriety transformed health, routines, and self-worth33:03 Therapy, resources, and why it’s hard without support36:00 Social life shifts + what might’ve happened otherwise39:02 Midlife challenges: access, misinformation, and information overload42:04 Listener Qs: anxiety hacks + sober socialising tips49:08 Wrap + final reflections #thetraitors #traitorsuk #drnaomipotter

For years, these women were told they were depressed. Anxious. Burnt out. Even bipolar.In this powerful compilation episode of Is It Hot In Here?, we share eight moments from past celebrity guests where the penny finally dropped — the real cause of their symptoms wasn’t a psychiatric disorder, stress, or personal failure… it was perimenopause.From fears of early-onset dementia and brain tumours, to antidepressants prescribed as a quick but ineffective fix, these stories expose how often women’s hormonal transitions are misunderstood, dismissed, or missed entirely.If you’ve ever been told “it’s just anxiety”, “it’s probably stress”, or “this happens to everyone” — this episode is for you.Follow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Lorraine Candy: mistaking perimenopause for a brain tumour 00:54 – Lisa Snowdon: perimenopause being overlooked by depression01:47 – Cally Beaton: perimenopause misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder05:17 – Lavina Mehta: a fear of Alzheimer's overshadowing perimenopause diagnosis06:08 – Kate Lawler: mistaking perimenopause for heart problems07:01 – Naga Munchetty: Women's pain not being taken seriously 07:56 – Rosie Nixon: menopause symptoms being shrugged off as anxiety09:58 – Bryony Gordon: perimenopause causing OCD to flare upWatch Naomi's full conversation with:Lorraine Candy: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5oPlBmuiw0mI7yPEU3Ez6Z?si=io10fuoHT8y5zbZfWjOdLwLisa Snowdon: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WJEhycgRWgk6QqZqdhcMm?si=4gvi2yhCQ5GdAovMPxKtWQCally Beaton: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6l6DH9H9VyfR8Wz9kgvZR1?si=0evUO6oxSxqu86dKyWfkjwLavina Mehta: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UNeIYs6QhMFTjTqnSU1pk?si=cBLu6umbRFKYYljT8U7_6AKate Lawler: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1eSbAVhA0ymFYWkGWzV5QP?si=CDhKbqL3QCOmD_J0h8AmXgNaga Munchetty: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1kSIqsjmTaxELkjGiv3Ojh?si=7HYXdgmnRLeI8jWn-CdkzQRosie Nixon: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6zWwGun1xjFISmV2hI6FHY?si=SQObyoaYS-mIOR04U53fNABryony Gordon: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2HvWsF9n00VTSyRVDqutLQ?si=PRuD7GFXST26J_Ow3oeUKQ#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

Is testosterone something every menopausal woman needs, or is it being overhyped?In this highly requested episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined once again by menopause specialist Dr Liz Andrew to answer your real-life questions about testosterone in menopause. No trends, no fear-mongering – just clear, evidence-based answers to the things women are genuinely worried (and confused) about.From whether you actually need testosterone, to testing, side effects, and those persistent myths about aggression and excess hair growth, Naomi and Liz break it all down.Follow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Liz Andrew: Liz's Instagram: @drlizandrewFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Testosterone for women: why there’s still so much confusion02:32 – Testosterone side effects in women (hair, skin, aggression myths)05:12 – Do women need testosterone blood tests before menopause?07:34 – Can testosterone help urinary symptoms and vaginal health?10:01 – What “low libido” really means in menopause12:33 – Do all menopausal women need testosterone?15:02 – When doctors add testosterone to HRT (and why timing matters)17:36 – Testosterone in surgical menopause and early menopause20:04 – Can testosterone make you angry or aggressive?22:34 – Female testosterone products explained: Androfeme vs Testogel25:03 – Safe prescribing, dosing errors and monitoring testosterone27:31 – Final thoughts: personalised testosterone care for women#testosterone #drnaomipotter #menopause

What major menopause changes are coming in 2026 – and how will they affect you?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by fellow menopause specialist Dr Liz Andrew from the Menopause Care team to break down the biggest updates shaping menopause care in 2026.Together, they unpack what it really means for menopause to be included in NHS GP health checks for women over 40, how testosterone is becoming more accessible, and how increased workplace support could change daily life for millions of women. If you want to feel informed, empowered, and prepared for what’s ahead, this is an essential listen.Follow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Liz Andrew: Liz's Instagram: @drlizandrewFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – What’s changing for menopause care in 202600:53 – Menopause being added to NHS health checks01:40 – Using smear appointments to open menopause conversations03:41 – How women can prepare for NHS health checks05:15 – Breaking down barriers to talking about menopause with doctors05:42 – Easier access to testosterone for women07:07 – New testosterone options including patches08:19 – Menopause support and policy changes in the workplace09:17 – Menopause challenges faced by NHS staff10:18 – Missed opportunities to treat vaginal symptoms in primary care11:24 – Why the menopause movement will keep growing12:29 – Reaching underserved and culturally diverse communities14:35 – What effective menopause support at work really looks like16:27 – Audience question: HRT patch shortages explained19:09 – How to involve partners and husbands in menopause conversations22:56 – How and where to find trusted menopause support#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

Does Christmas feel overwhelming instead of joyful during menopause? In this festive solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks honestly about why Christmas can feel especially hard during perimenopause and menopause. We're breaking down how you can protect your energy, mood, and wellbeing during the most pressured time of year.From navigating family dynamics and emotional overload, to letting go of comparison and unrealistic expectations fuelled by social media, Naomi offers reassurance, perspective and practical advice. She also reflects on the year gone by and shares a heartfelt Christmas message with listeners.💬 Topics include:• Why Christmas stress can hit harder during menopause• Managing family expectations and emotional overwhelm• Letting go of comparison and “perfect Christmas” pressure• Simple ways to protect your energy and wellbeing• A reflective end-of-year message and Christmas wishesFollow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:04 – Coping with festive overwhelm during menopause02:10 – Alcohol, sugar and sleep: why Christmas worsens menopause symptoms03:27 – Comparing your Christmas to social media perfection04:14 – Weight gain fears and letting go of Christmas guilt05:15 – Managing HRT, prescriptions and travel over the holidays05:39 – Handling unsympathetic family members at Christmas07:08 – Menopausal rage, irritation and family tension at Christmas08:33 – Creating space, setting boundaries and protecting your wellbeing08:56 – Christmas message and reflection on the year ahead#menopause #perimenopause #christmas

Why does menopause make so many women feel anxious and overwhelmed?In this week’s solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter breaks down the science behind menopause-related anxiety – and what you can do to feel calm and in control again.From understanding why hormonal shifts can trigger anxiety, to recognising when something else might be going on, Naomi offers clear, compassionate, practical guidance. She also explains the treatments and lifestyle tools that genuinely help. If you can relate to this topic of anxiety in menopause, we hope this episode helps you to feel more grounded, supported, and you again.💬 Topics include:• Why anxiety is so common in perimenopause and menopause• How to tell if your anxiety is hormonal or something else• The surprising ways menopausal anxiety can show up• Evidence-based treatments that actually work• What you can start doing today to ease anxietyFollow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotterFollow Dr Naomi Potter:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterMore info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/00:00 – Why anxiety is so common in perimenopause00:33 – How menopause anxiety shows up physically and emotionally01:19 – Night-time anxiety and waking panic explained01:38 – Palpitations in menopause: when to worry02:13 – Situational anxiety: driving, public speaking and daily triggers02:36 – Why menopause anxiety fluctuates with no clear pattern02:56 – Can menopause anxiety be treated?03:23 – Hormonal causes of anxiety: oestrogen, progesterone and the brain03:54 – The “perfect storm” of midlife stress and hormonal change04:20 – Does past anxiety predict menopause anxiety?04:42 – Sudden anxiety in your 40s and why it’s often hormonal05:07 – Lifestyle triggers that worsen menopause anxiety05:26 – Hidden sources of caffeine that fuel anxiety05:58 – How alcohol increases menopause anxiety06:21 – How exercise helps reduce anxiety symptoms06:46 – Diet changes that support menopause anxiety07:16 – Non-medical anxiety treatments: CBT, hypnotherapy and more07:41 – Medical treatment options: HRT and non-hormonal therapies08:04 – Beta blockers for managing menopause anxiety08:31 – Antidepressants for menopause anxiety: who they help08:53 – Herbal supplements for anxiety: magnesium, vitamin D, ashwagandha09:23 – How progesterone in HRT affects anxiety10:06 – Understanding your response to oestrogen and progesterone10:29 – First steps to take if you have menopause anxiety10:59 – Listener question: does testosterone affect anxiety?11:59 – Will HRT help with anxiety in menopause?12:46 – Nutrition and the gut–brain axis in menopause anxiety13:18 – Final advice for women with menopause anxiety13:45 – Where to find more support from Dr Naomi PotterIf you liked this episode, you might also enjoy our conversation about nutritional advice in menopause with Dr Megan Rossi: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3zhZ4EoIkSbhQHPOAT5GCR?si=yZ_6UFLVRPm3y0G42F6DHQ#menopause #anxiety #perimenopause