Fueled and Free

S5 E4: The problem with birth control for PMS, PMDD, Perimenopause and what to do instead

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In this episode of the Fueled & Free Podcast, Margaret explores the reality of PMS and PMDD, especially for women in their 30s and 40s. She challenges the conventional approach of prescribing birth control as a “fix,” explaining why it fails to address the root causes of hormonal imbalance. 

Instead, she highlights the role of bioidentical progesterone in easing symptoms, supporting perimenopause, and protecting long-term health. 

This conversation sheds light on why women need real hormone support — not suppression — and how understanding progesterone’s benefits can transform mental health, sleep, and overall well-being.

Episode Recap:

• Why birth control is the default prescription for PMS, PMDD, and perimenopause symptoms {01:53}
• How medical training and pharma influence keep doctors from addressing root causes {04:59}
• Why suppressing ovulation in perimenopause makes symptoms worse, not better {06:08}
• The critical difference between synthetic progestins and natural progesterone {07:32}
• How bioidentical progesterone supports mood, sleep, metabolism, and long-term health {09:26}
• The outdated fears around hormone therapy—and why they don’t apply to progesterone {11:10}
• Best practices for progesterone use—and how to know if it’s working for you {13:26}
• Questions to ask your provider so you can advocate for better hormone care {24:04}

Links & References:

• Access hormone replacement therapy from Raena Health, a US based telehealth provider.  
• Taking Charge Of Your Fertility Book on Amazon. 
• Click here to order peptides with EllieMD, a US based telehealth provider.
• Book a peptide consult zoom call 
• Download my GLP 1 Peptide Guide
• Join The Microdose Method GLP Coaching Group 
• Learn more about working with our team by visiting fueledandfree.com
• Ep. 67 | Estrogen Dominance In Perimenopause: Why You’re Bloated, Gaining Weight, Moody, & Have Heavy Periods

Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell

**Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the guidance of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

More About the Fueled & Free Podcast:

Hosted by Margaret Powell, a Holistic Nutritionist, The Fueled & Free Podcast is a women’s health podcast that helps you cut through the noise of the wellness world, ditch diet culture & reclaim your metabolism.

Informative and relatable wisdom + guidance for the everyday woman, we cover topics on nutrition, hormones, gut health, thyroid health, nervous system regulation tools, motherhood, and more. New episodes release every Wednesday! Connect with Margaret on Instagram @margaretannpowell or email fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com. To learn more about working with Margaret, head to https://fueledandfree.com.

Lots of Love,