Menstrual pain, heavy periods, absent periods—what’s normal and what’s not? In today’s episode, we tackle the many types of menstrual disorders that impact millions but often get dismissed.From painful periods (dysmenorrhea) and heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) to absent periods (amenorrhea) and emergency situations like ovarian torsion, we break down symptoms, causes, and when to seek help. Plus, we bust common myths and offer practical advice for navigating menstrual health with confidence.If you or someone you love struggles with their period, this episode is for you.In this episode, we cover:What’s considered a normal period—and what isn’tDysmenorrhea (painful periods): causes, treatments, and when to worryEndometriosis: why it’s so misunderstood and how it’s managedMenorrhagia (heavy bleeding): how much is too muchFibroids and adenomyosis: hidden causes of pelvic pain and heavy periodsAmenorrhea (absent periods): common reasons and why it shouldn’t be ignoredOvarian cysts and torsion: recognizing true emergenciesDebunking common period mythsTips for advocating for yourself in the healthcare systemBottom line: whether it’s pain, bleeding, or irregular cycles—don't ignore it. Seek medical care early to get the support and treatment you deserve.Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Always Discreet — your dependable solution for bladder leaks. Learn more and grab a coupon at: https://www.checkout51.com/offer/Always-Discreet-Underwear-and-Pads-coupon69862Disclaimer:The Doc Talk Podcast is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for questions related to your health needs.Connect with us:Follow us on Instagram @thedoctalkpod!Send us your questions—we love hearing from you!
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11. How Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life
In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, Dr. Shazma Mithani, an ER doctor, and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe, a family doctor, tackle an important listener question: How can I stay up to date with cancer screening to reduce my risk?Cancer screening is not about finding something wrong—it’s about catching potential issues early, sometimes before symptoms even appear. This episode covers what you need to know about cancer screening, including when to start, how often to screen, and why early detection can save lives.What we cover in this episodeBreast Cancer Screening: Why there’s a push to lower the starting age from 50 to 40, plus screening guidelines based on personal and family history.Cervical Cancer Screening: The shift toward HPV testing from Pap tests, and why regular screenings are crucial even if you feel fine. https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/tests-and-procedures/human-papillomavirus-hpv-testColorectal Cancer Screening: Why younger adults are seeing higher rates of colorectal cancer and what you can do to detect it early. Prostate Cancer Screening: The PSA debate—why routine testing isn’t always recommended in Canada and what men should know. Lung Cancer Screening: Who qualifies for low-dose CT scans, and why chest X-rays often miss lung cancer. True or False Rapid Round! Debunking common myths about cancer screening. When to See Your Doctor vs. the ER: If you have symptoms like unexplained bleeding, pain, or weight loss—don’t delay seeking medical attention.Taking ActionKnow your age and eligibility for screening. Ask about family history—it matters. Don’t skip tests just because you feel fine. Get back on track if life got in the way.If this episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it—it could literally save a life. Episode Sponsored by Always Discreet: Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://www.checkout51.com/offer/Always-Discreet-Underwear-and-Pads-coupon69862Follow us on Instagram @thedoctalkpod!Have a question for our docs? Send us a message—we might feature it in an upcoming episode!Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare provider for recommendations specific to your health.
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10. Think It’s Not Your Heart? Think Again.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in Canada.In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, we dive into what heart disease can look like in women, how it’s too often overlooked, and what you can do to protect yourself and those you love.We kick off with a listener question from Kellie, who asks:“What does the research say about how heart disease shows up differently in women—and how can we advocate for ourselves when screenings don’t tell the whole story?”It’s a crucial question—because heart disease often does look different in women, and the healthcare system isn’t always set up to recognize that. In this episode, we break down how to recognize symptoms, what tests can (and can’t) show, and the steps you can take to protect your heart.In this episode, we cover:What heart disease really is and why women are underdiagnosedHow the symptoms of heart attacks and strokes differ in womenWhy perimenopause and menopause increase risk—and what to do about itThe gender gap in medical research and its impact on heart healthAdvocacy tips for navigating the ER and pushing for follow-up careWhat “knowing your numbers” actually means (and when to start checking them) Dr. Shaz and Dr. Sheila share personal insights, ER stories, and a practical “Prescription for Heart Health” that’s rooted in prevention and empowerment.Key Takeaways:Symptoms of heart attack in women can be subtle: nausea, fatigue, dizzinessMany risk factors—like high blood pressure, smoking, or inactivity—are preventableMenopause plays a key role in heart risk due to hormonal changesSpeak up in healthcare settings—your story mattersScreening starts at 40, earlier if you have risk factors or family history If this episode helped you see heart health in a new light, please share it—it might just save a life. Missed our perimenopause episode? Go back and check out Episode 2 for more on how hormonal changes affect heart and brain health.Episode Sponsored by Always Discreet: Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://www.checkout51.com/offer/Always-Discreet-Underwear-and-Pads-coupon69862Follow us on Instagram @thedoctalkpod!Have a question for our docs? Send us a message—we might feature it in an upcoming episode!Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare provider for recommendations specific to your health.
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9. Why the Bladder Matters
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, Drs. Shazma and Sheila tackle the critical and often under-discussed topic of bladder health. From the nuances of urinary tract infections (UTIs) to the dangers of kidney infections and urosepsis, the doctors break it all down. Plus, they shine a spotlight on incontinence, exploring its causes, social impact, and treatment options. Join us as we answer listener questions, debunk myths, and offer a practical prescription for maintaining bladder health.Listener Question of the Week: Rachel asks about recurrent UTIs and when to worry about something more serious. Drs. Shazma and Sheila provide thoughtful insights and evidence-based advice to help Rachel and others struggling with this common issue.Key Topics Covered:Understanding UTIs: Symptoms, myths, and when antibiotics are (or aren’t) needed.Recurrent UTIs: Risk factors, including sexual activity, menopause, and medical conditions.When a UTI Gets Serious: Recognizing signs of kidney infections and life-threatening urosepsis.Incontinence Unpacked: Types of incontinence, its widespread impact, and treatment options.Listener Q&A: Advice for Rachel, who’s struggling with recurrent UTIs.Actionable Health Tips: From hydration to pelvic floor physiotherapy, practical ways to maintain bladder health.Doc Talk Prescription for Health:Stay hydrated—it’s key to flushing out bacteria.Don’t ignore UTI symptoms; treat infections early.Understand your risk factors and seek help if incontinence affects your quality of life.Consider local vaginal estrogen for menopause-related bladder issues.Explore pelvic floor physiotherapy—it’s underused and effective.Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Doc Talk Podcast for more expert advice on health topics that matter. And don’t forget to share it with someone who could benefit from this discussion! Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://checkout51.app.link/e/K3yAUdFCUKbDon’t forget to subscribe to the DocTalk Podcast and share this episode with others who might benefit.Medical Disclaimer:The Doc Talk Podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. While we are doctors, we are not your doctors. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any personal health concerns.
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8.5. Measles is Back…Again!
In this quick mini-episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, Drs. Sheila and Shazma break down the basics of measles, why outbreaks are back, and how to stay protected with vaccinations. They highlight the serious risks associated with measles, share who should get the MMR vaccine, and address rare cases where vaccination might not be suitable. If you’re unsure about your immunity, this episode provides essential tips to ensure you’re safeguarded against this highly contagious virus.Key Points Discussed:What makes measles a big deal:Highly contagious; lingers in the air up to two hours after exposure.Serious complications include hospitalization, brain swelling, and long-term immune suppression.Who needs the MMR vaccine:Kids Adults born after 1970 (check if you need a second dose).Travelers and high-risk groups like healthcare workers.Exceptions for people born before 1970.Important reminders:Vaccination exceptions include pregnant people, those with severe immune suppression, and those with severe allergies to vaccine components.The best protection is two doses of the MMR vaccine.The Bottom Line: Measles is making a comeback due to low vaccination rates, but you can protect yourself and others. Check your vaccination records, and if in doubt, consult your doctor or get tested for immunity.Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for any questions about your personal health.Follow Us: Be sure to follow The Doc Talk Podcast (@thedoctalkpod) on social media for updates and to send in your questions!
Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe have spent years navigating the health care system. Not just as doctors for their patients, but as moms for their kids, and patients themselves. And they know it's not always straightforward. Every two weeks they'll take a real question from a real patient, and provide in-depth answers with a clear path to action, with help from other trusted experts. No jargon. No time wasted. Just real talk about real issues from two doctors who've seen it all. And they'll give you the inside scoop on how to navigate the health care system like a pro. This is The Doc Talk. Disclaimer: The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.
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