Think it’s anxiety, stress or depression? It could be perimenopause.

In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by Jane James, menopause mentor at Menopause Care, to talk about the symptoms women often miss, what to do if your GP isn’t helping, and how to know when HRT might be right for you.

Jane also shares her own story of being dismissed and misdiagnosed before realising she was perimenopausal – and explains how lived experience can help women feel less alone and more confident in getting support.

💬 Topics include:

• Early signs of perimenopause

• Anxiety, low mood and feeling “not yourself”

• Why perimenopause is often mistaken for depression

• What to do if your GP dismisses your symptoms

• Jane’s HRT journey

• What to do when HRT stops working

• Why symptom tracking helps

• The value of menopause support groups

• Why you shouldn’t buy HRT online

• How to find the right menopause specialist

Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Jane James below:

Jane’s Instagram: @janemhdg

Join Jane's Facebook Group MHDG (Menopause & HRT Discussion Group) https://www.facebook.com/groups/702855629805990/?locale=en_GB

Follow Dr Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

More info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/

0:00 – Jane James’ perimenopause story

3:05 – One ovary removed and the first menopause symptoms

6:40 – Misdiagnosed with depression instead of perimenopause

10:20 – How Jane realised it was perimenopause

14:05 – Menopause support groups and where to find help

18:00 – How to research menopause and HRT properly

22:05 – What a menopause mentor actually does

26:10 – Can you get NHS prescriptions after a private menopause appointment?

30:20 – Why so many women feel dismissed by doctors

34:10 – Jane’s HRT journey: tablets, patches, gel and progesterone

40:50 – What to do when HRT stops working

45:00 – Testosterone in menopause: benefits and side effects

48:30 – Lifestyle changes that can help menopause symptoms

52:10 – Early signs of perimenopause and symptom tracking

56:10 – How journaling can help anxiety, relationships and menopause appointments

1:00:25 – Why menopause training for GPs must improve

1:04:05 – Can you buy HRT online safely?

1:08:10 – Anxiety in perimenopause: should you try HRT or therapy?

#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

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 lifestyle

Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter

Stay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

For 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

Can weight loss injections help with menopause weight gain?In this week’s episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by menopause specialist Dr Kari Nightingale to unpack one of the biggest topics in women’s health right now: GLP-1 weight loss medications. They discuss why weight can become so much harder to manage in perimenopause and menopause, how these injections actually work, who they may be suitable for, and what women need to know about side effects, safety and long-term use.If you’ve ever felt like your body has changed overnight, your cravings have ramped up, and the old ways of managing your weight suddenly no longer work, this episode will help make sense of it all.💬 Topics include:• Why weight gain often accelerates in perimenopause and menopause• What GLP-1 medications are and how they work• Who weight loss injections may be suitable for• The most common side effects and risks• What happens when you stop taking them• Why lifestyle, muscle mass and nutrition still matter• Whether GLP-1s can be used safely alongside HRT• The truth about appetite, cravings and insulin resistance in menopauseFollow 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/#weightloss #weightlossmptivation #glp1

Bleeding during menopause? Find out wehn 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 bleeding

Stay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

For more information and support about menopause, you can go to: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/

00:00 – Bleeding in perimenopause explained

00:32 – What bleeding changes are normal in perimenopause

01:12 – When heavy periods should be investigated

01:45 – Causes of heavy bleeding (fibroids, polyps, endometrial changes)

02:05 – Bleeding when starting HRT

02:35 – Unscheduled bleeding on HRT (first 3–6 months)

03:05 – When bleeding on HRT needs investigation

03:35 – Transvaginal ultrasound: what doctors look for

04:15 – Treatments to control bleeding (progesterone, Mirena, dose changes)

04:55 – When to contact your doctor urgently

05:30 – Managing ongoing bleeding on HRT

06:05 – Treatments for heavy periods (Mirena, medications, surgery)

06:45 – How common abnormal bleeding investigations are

07:15 – Most common cause of bleeding after menopause (GSM)

07:55 – Where to find trusted menopause advice

#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

Today we're revealing the ultimate skincare routine for menopausal women.

And the good news? It's super simple!

If your skin has become dry, extra sensitive, or you're suffering from acne during midlife, this could be down to menopause. But there are things that can help – and for this week's episode, we're joined by THE skincare expert to reveal all...

Dr Naomi Potter is joined by skincare expert and bestselling author Caroline Hirons (aka the “Queen of skincare”) for a funny, no-fluff conversation about menopause skin changes. From perimenopause breakouts and pigmentation to dryness, sagging and sensitivity. Caroline opens up about her own menopause experience, why HRT helped massively, and what actually works when you want results without a 10-step routine.

Stay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Caroline Hirons below:

Caroline's Instagram: ‪@carolinehirons

Caroline's TikTok: ‪@carolinehirons

Caroline's YouTube: @CarolineHirons

Caroline's skincare brand Skin Rocks: https://skinrocks.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooih8b25vzzeLOpU4-KNkHkHqW9J-aN7JvkYQ1eGPdiskK2vJRe

Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

For more information and support about menopause, you can go to: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/

00:00 – Caroline Hirons’ skincare career

03:11 – Perimenopause skin changes explained

07:33 – Caroline’s perimenopause experience

10:25 – Post-menopause skin & dryness

11:41 – Early perimenopause skin signs

13:13 – Retinoids: benefits for ageing skin

18:32 – Lifestyle factors affecting skin

19:11 – Why washing your face matters

23:41 – Preventing skin damage early

26:05 – SPF, wrinkles & pigmentation

29:22 – SPF myths and vitamin D

32:56 – Simple daily skincare routine

38:13 – Life after perimenopause

40:08 – Perimenopause overwhelm & skin

44:20 – Caroline’s top menopause advice

49:00 – Skincare routine: morning vs night

#carolinehirons #menopause #skincare

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 problems

Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Dr Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

More 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 Patches

02:32 – 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 HRT

04:46 – Everel Sequi vs Everel Conti (Combined HRT Patches Explained)

06:59 – Patch Residue, Wrinkling & Adhesive Problems

07:43 – New Combined Estradot Patch (What’s Coming Next?)

08:08 – HRT Patch Leaflet Warnings: Breast Cancer, Stroke & Heart Risk

09:44 – HRT Patch Side Effects (What’s Normal?)

10:48 – Benefits of Patches: Twice Weekly Dosing

11:12 – Swimming, Baths & Sauna: Do They Affect Absorption?

12:24 – What To Do If Your Patch Falls Off

13:22 – “My HRT Stopped Working” – Dose & Batch Issues

14:09 – 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 Matters

16:06 – Why Not All HRT Patches Feel The Same

#hrt #hrtpatch #menopause

Brain fog in menopause – who else can relate?

In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by comedian, voice actor and presenter Desiree Burch. You might know Desiree from competing on the gameshow Taskmaster, the narrator for Netflix's dating show Too Hot to Handle, or from her current standup comedy tour The Golden Wrath.

Desiree opens up about what perimenopause really felt like behind the scenes: the sudden shift from “fine” to not fine, the shock of losing mental sharpness as a professional performer, and the very real trial-and-error of getting HRT right when your body won’t absorb it.

She shares the moment she realised this wasn’t “just stress” – including the mental health side that so many women are quietly battling – and why perimenopause can feel like a full-body initiation, not just a list of symptoms.

They also discuss what to do when treatment stops working, why follow-up matters, and how midlife can become a turning point for boundaries, self-trust, and giving fewer f***s (in the best way).

There are still tickets available for Desiree's tour! Get yours here: https://www.desireeburch.com/the-golden-wrath-tour/

Follow Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter

Follow Desiree Burch below:

Desiree's Instagram: @destheray

Desiree's website: https://www.desireeburch.com/

Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

More info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/

00:00 – Intro + meet Desiree Burch

00:33 – Performing nerves: “pure panic” + adrenaline

02:58 – Brain fog hits midlife (and comedy suffers)

03:38 – Testosterone + mental acuity when words vanish

06:06 – Identity, misogyny & being misunderstood

07:26 – “Witch initiation” — perimenopause as inner overhaul

08:21 – The HRT train: progesterone first + Mirena

09:00 – Ectopic pregnancy + suicidal thoughts: “Add estrogen”

10:44 – Menopause in silence + not asking your mum

11:55 – Hearing other women’s stories brings relief

13:23 – Hormones vs antidepressants in midlife

14:39 – Penny-drop moment: bleeding, polyps & heavy periods

17:40 – The sudden “flip” + fear of how bad it gets

18:22 – HRT helped — and forced healthier habits

19:59 – Absorption chaos: gels, patches & lozenges

21:50 – What works: regulated options explained

29:39 – When symptoms return: troubleshooting HRT

34:09 – Why menopause care still feels like guesswork

37:46 – Can perimenopause derail careers?

46:08 – The Golden Wrath: show, dementia & women’s stories

52:49 – Listener Qs: partners + “giving fewer f**ks”

#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

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_naomipotter

Follow Harriet Tyce on Instagram: @harriet_tyce

Order Harriet's new book Witch Trial: https://www.waterstones.com/book/witch-trial/harriet-tyce/9781035411917

Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter

More info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/

00:00 Welcome Harriet Tyce + The Traitors intro
03:02 Middle-aged women on The Traitors (strategy + being heard)
06:01 Stepping into power in midlife
09:03 From English degree to choosing law
12:02 Criminal Bar realities + drinking culture
15:04 Motherhood, leaving the Bar, and finding writing
18:03 Blood Orange breakout success + why books struggle to cut through
21:05 Pressure after success + writing process + audience growth
24:01 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-worth
33:03 Therapy, resources, and why it’s hard without support
36:00 Social life shifts + what might’ve happened otherwise
39:02 Midlife challenges: access, misinformation, and information overload
42:04 Listener Qs: anxiety hacks + sober socialising tips
49:08 Wrap + final reflections

#thetraitors #traitorsuk #drnaomipotter