Recurrent BV? Yeah, same. In this episode, host Valerie Elser gets real about her year-long battle with bacterial vaginosis and she’s not alone. Joined by her mum (and Gynecologist) Dr. Denise Poulos, this mother-daughter duo dives into the often-ignored world of BV: what it is, why it happens, and why so many people are dealing with it (hint: up to 80% will experience it at some point).

Together, they break down the science behind the vaginal microbiome, how an imbalance of good vs. bad bacteria can throw everything off, and what factors might be triggering these flare-ups. They also explore treatments: what works, what doesn’t, and what’s changing in the way we think about BV. Spoiler: a recent study is now linking it to STI-like transmission patterns, shifting how we approach prevention and care.

It’s informative, unfiltered, and exactly the conversation we should all be having.

In this eye-opening episode, cohost Eleny Bunn shares her personal journey with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), offering candid insights into her diagnosis and what’s been helping her manage it. Her and Val are joined by reproductive psychologist Dr. Nicole Doghor, who brings expert perspective to this complex and often misunderstood condition.

Premenstrual disorders impact 20 to 40% of women and people with cycles globally. PMDD, a more intense and debilitating form, affects approximately 5% and can seriously disrupt daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being.

Together, we explore what PMDD really is, how it differs from PMS, and the emotional, psychological, and physical toll it can take. Dr. Doghor offers expert insight into the hormonal and neurological roots of PMDD, as well as evidence-based approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Despite its profound impact, PMDD is still under-recognized. Many people struggle for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis, partly because the universally accepted diagnostic criteria are a relatively new development. Dr. Doghor helps break down why that is and what needs to change.

Whether you're living with PMDD, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand reproductive mental health more deeply, this conversation offers education, empathy, and expert-backed insight.

Topics include:

• The difference between PMS and PMDD
• How PMDD is diagnosed and misdiagnosed
• The impact on relationships, work, and daily life
• Treatment options—from therapy to medication to lifestyle changes
• The importance of self-advocacy and support networks
• Eleny’s lived experience and what’s currently helping her

Listen in for an honest, validating, and much-needed discussion on a condition that deserves far more attention.

Cool links to check out:

IAMPMDD Website & Provider Directory

Jean Hailes: What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?

Some great Period Tracking Apps

A downloadable period tracker sheet

The Women's Place

What happens when you give guys the mic and let them ask anything they've ever wondered about vaginas, periods, sex, and more?

In this candid, no-holds-barred episode, 19-year-old cohost Spencer McFarlane takes on anonymous questions submitted by men and boys -- from "Is discharge normal?" to "Why do vaginas smell different?" to "How do I make sure sex is good for both of us?" -- and gets real answers from a gynecologist (aka my mom) and me, a young woman who cares deeply about reproductive health. No shame, no judgment, just honest answers and a whole lot of learning.

P.S. Have questions about vaginas, vulvas, sexual encounters with someone with a vagina... check out OMGYES.com . We mention it in the episode. This is a website Val used in college to start to learn more about what's going on in the vagina when it comes to healthy sex and masturbation.