Join me, Tara, on Talk with Tara, as I welcome the incredible Dr. Lizellen La Follette—a globally recognized, board-certified OB/GYN who’s transforming women’s health from every angle. In this episode, we dive deep into: Dr. La Follette’s candid insights on perimenopause and menopause—how symptoms like anxiety, dryness, and pain extend far beyond hot flashes, and why it’s critical to ask, “Could this be hormonal?” She breaks down safe and effective hormone options (like body-identical estradiol and vaginal estrogen) and shares when and why to consider HRT. We also explore the often-overlooked role of testosterone, compounded vs. non‑compounded bioidentical hormones, and the best strategies for maintaining sexual health, libido, and vaginal comfort—including modern techniques like the Mona Lisa Touch CO₂ laser and targeted vaginal estrogen. Dr. La Follette walks us through managing common issues like UTIs, urinary incontinence, and labial laxity with aesthetic—and often minimally invasive—solutions such as radiofrequency tightening. Plus, we talk proactive health measures: bone density testing before age 50, vaccination for HPV up to age 50 to reduce cervical and throat cancer risk, and cutting-edge early cancer detection with tests like GALLERI. Every segment reflects her compassionate, patient-first approach—encouraging women to prepare beforehand, ask smart questions, and advocate for their health across midlife and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for women navigating hormonal shifts, sexual wellness, preventive care, and the full spectrum of midlife health. Hit follow on Talk with Tara and tune in—you won’t want to miss this inspiring and empowering discussion! In this episode, we cover: The lesser-known symptoms women face in midlife, plus anxiety, mood and the rippling effects of hormonal changes Bio-identical hormone therapy, vaginal estrogen, progesterone, testosterone  Solutions for painful sex, dryness, libido loss, UTIs and vaginal/vulva changes—from vaginal laser to RF treatments Tips for bone health, heart disease prevention, and addressing “healthspan” versus lifespan What Dr. La Follette recommends for cancer screening—falling under the radar: HPV vaccine, Galleri testing, calcium heart scan and carotid ultrasound Why sleep, cognition, community—and even sparkling female entrepreneurship—factor into long-term well-being Dr. La Follette says: “If you are really having a tough time, you should have that conversation…women deserve to be given the risks and benefits and then to make their own decisions.” That’s the heart of this episode: giving you the knowledge and confidence to become your own biggest health advocate—especially in midlife. Want to connect directly with Dr. La Follette?Office: Marin County (open 6 days/week; Saturday mornings available)Website: www.drlafollette.com If you loved today’s episode, follow the show and share it with a friend. And if you have questions or wince-free sex tips of your own, DM me—there’s so much more to talk about. Talk soon.