There has been an explosion of interest in recent years in the gut microbiome, but in contrast, the vaginal microbiome is largely undiscussed. Understanding this delicate habitat is never more essential than during perimenopause and menopause, when the microbiome can undergo significant changes, leading to a range of health conditions.

To help us learn more about how we can support our vaginal flora through this transition and optimise our vaginal health, we are joined by Dr Moira Bradfield Strydom (PhD), the founder of Intimate Ecology clinical and education services. A Naturopath, educator and researcher with over 20 years clinical experience, she has a passion for helping people experience optimal health in sustainable and sensible ways.

Clinically, she has a niche interest in recurrent vaginal infections, optimal vaginal and genitourinary health, hormones and the genitourinary microbiomes.

Moira completed a PhD through Griffith University which focused on the vaginal microbiome and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. She also holds a Bachelor of Naturopathy and a Masters degree in Acupuncture.

In addition to her role as a Naturopath, Moira has lectured extensively at a tertiary level and in the area of holistic genitourinary health, educating her fellow practitioners to offer support in an often-overlooked area.

Find out more about Moira and her services at www.intimateecology.com.au

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The mental health effects of perimenopause can be severe and swift - often arriving at a time in a woman's life when she may have no other symptoms and be completely unaware of what is happening to her.

Craig Gaunt became aware of this knowledge gap after losing his wife, Debbie, to suicide in 2019, following severe and sudden mental health issues that have since been partially attributed to the hormonal effects of perimenopause.

To honour Debbie, the Gaunt family set up the Debbie Gaunt Foundation, which works to fund projects aimed at providing a greater understanding of the mental health impacts of perimenopause and other conditions that affect women's mental health. To find out more, head to debbiegauntfoundation.com.au

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Meno belly, the accumulation of belly fat and increased weight in the mid-section that occurs during peri and menopause, can be one of the most bothersome parts of the transition for many women, especially when compounded by uncomfortable bloating. We unpack what causes both, and what steps women can take to lessen their impact.

To guide us through the subject is Dr Ceri Cashell, a GP from Sydney’s Northern Beaches who specialises in hormones and their impact on health, in particular for women during peri/menopause. She is also a co-founder of Healthy Hormones (www.healthyhormones.au), an online menopause community offering free learning and support for health professionals and all Australians.

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