Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Whether you’re bendy with all the benefits or hurting in all the wrong places, you’ve come to the right place for all things hypermobility. Connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are often dismissed or overlooked by healthcare providers as a cause of chronic pain. But if you or someone you care about struggles with the life-altering symptoms of hypermobility, you should know YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At the Bendy Bodies Podcast, we understand.
Each week, join Dr. Linda Bluestein (The Hypermobility MD) as she pulls back the curtain on how to prevent injury and unnecessary suffering in “double-jointed” individuals seeking a more comfortable life in their unique, complex “bendy bodies.” When you tune in, you’re engaging in more than a podcast. Both on-air and online, you’re joining a supportive community where patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals trade insights, life hacks, and inspiring stories to embrace our Bendy Bodies journey together!

Latest Episodes:

Why Are You So Exhausted? with Dr. Brayden P. Yellman (Ep 140) Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

What if the fatigue you feel isn’t just “tiredness”—but the result of an entirely different physiological state? In this riveting episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. Brayden P. Yellman of the Bateman Horne Center to explore ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome)—a misunderstood condition that masquerades as general exhaustion but goes much deeper.

Together, they unravel the hidden markers of post-exertional malaise, explain how upright posture can quietly sabotage your day, and discuss the mysterious collapse of energy systems that no blood test can catch. With no known biomarker, diagnosis is a clinical puzzle—and one too often dismissed.

Dr. Yellman also explores emerging theories around brainstem tension, tethered cord syndrome, mast cell activation, and how some surgeries may reset the body in unexpected ways. If you've been chasing answers for fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained crashes, this episode may finally connect the dots you didn’t know existed.

Note: You may notice a few choppy moments in this video due to our guest’s frame rate, but the conversation is so valuable, we knew we had to share it with you. Thanks for your understanding!

Takeaways:

Fatigue might not be what you think—and your body may be operating in a totally different mode.
Your upright posture could be silently draining your energy every hour of the day.
A “normal” MRI doesn’t mean your nervous system is functioning normally.
Could your symptoms be the result of your brainstem being pulled—literally?
The most revealing test? It might be one you do at home... and it doesn’t involve a lab.

YouTube video mentioned in the episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00f6Yx9ab3I

Find the episode transcript here.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Brayden P. Yellman

Twitter: https://x.com/BatemanHorne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bateman_horne_center/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/batemanhornecenter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bateman-horne-center-of-excellence/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/batemanhornecenter.bsky.social

Website: https://batemanhornecenter.org/

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hidden Histamine Threats with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides (Ep 139) Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

What if the symptoms you've been chasing—brain fog, fatigue, bladder pain, even anxiety—were all connected by one overlooked cell type? In this fascinating episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein is joined by Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts on mast cells, to unravel the hidden roles they play in some of the most complex chronic illnesses.

From histamine sensitivity that mimics allergies, to lab tests that miss what’s really going on, Dr. Theoharides sheds light on why so many patients are dismissed—and what doctors are missing. The conversation takes unexpected turns into brain inflammation, food triggers, and even autism, where mast cells may hold untapped insight into neurodevelopment and behavior.

If you've ever felt like your symptoms don’t make sense—or that the medical system keeps overlooking something obvious—this episode might just connect the dots.

Takeaways:

You might be surprised to learn which test isn’t as useful for diagnosing MCAS as people think.

The brain fog you're feeling? There's a cellular player involved—and it's not just inflammation.

Some reactions you're calling “allergies” might be something very different (and trickier to detect).

The way mast cells interact with the brain could change how we think about neurodevelopment.

A few supplements could help—but only if you're asking the right questions first.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Mast Cells and Guest Introduction

02:57 Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)

10:35 Diagnostic Challenges and Lab Tests for MCAS

32:12 Mast Cells in the Brain and Neuroinflammation

44:00 Understanding Mast Cell Activation and Stress

46:06 The Role of Diet and Supplements in Managing Mast Cell Activation

55:42 Gut Health and Mast Cell Activation

01:01:51 Practical Tips and Future Directions

Find the transcript for this episode here.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Theoharis Theoharides

Website: https://www.drtheoharides.com/

Podcast Link: https://algonot.com/

Blogs: https://www.nova.edu/nim/neuroinflammation-research/index.html

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theoharis-theoharides-ms-phd-md-faaaai-67123735

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lower Your EDS Pain | Office Hours (EP 138) Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

In this solo Q&A episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein answers your biggest hypermobility questions, tackling topics like whether getting an official EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes) diagnosis is worth it, which pain medications actually help, how to improve posture, and the growing stigma around EDS. She also discusses visceroptosis (organ prolapse), posture braces, and the legalities of medical centers refusing EDS patients. Dr. Bluestein shares practical hypermobility hacks and gives insight into the challenges patients face when seeking care. If you’ve ever wondered how to advocate for yourself, manage pain, or improve daily function, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable tips.

Takeaways:

Should You Get an EDS Diagnosis? – Listen as Dr. Bluestein describes how an official diagnosis can provide validation and access to specialists, yet may also lead to insurance and medical stigma issues.

Pain Medications for EDS Are Off-Label – Dr. Bluestein explains which medications she has found most helpful for managing symptoms.

How Can Posture Be Improved – Dr. Bluestein shares which posture-support garments she prefers and how to use them in a way to avoid muscle weakening.

EDS Stigma is Getting Worse – Misinformation causes some doctors to dismiss EDS patients as exaggerating or attention-seeking. Learn how to advocate and educate your providers.

Some Medical Centers Refuse EDS Patients – While emergency rooms must treat everyone, clinics and specialists can decline to see EDS patients, making self-advocacy and persistence essential. Listen in to hear how you can avoid having this happen to you.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Find the episode transcript here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Signs of Tethered Cord You Shouldn’t Ignore with Dr. Petra Klinge (Ep 137) Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Petra Klinge, a renowned neurosurgeon specializing in tethered cord syndrome (TCS), Chiari malformation, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders. They dive deep into occult tethered cord syndrome, a condition where MRI scans appear normal, yet patients still experience neurological symptoms, chronic pain, and bladder/bowel dysfunction. Dr. Klinge explains how tethered cord affects EDS patients, the role of connective tissue disorders, and what makes someone a good candidate for surgery. Whether you’ve been struggling with undiagnosed spinal issues or are considering tethered cord release surgery, this episode is packed with valuable insights and cutting-edge research.

Takeaways:

Tethered Cord Can Be “Occult” (Hidden on MRI) – Many patients with classic tethered cord symptoms are dismissed because their MRI appears “normal.” A clinical diagnosis is key.

EDS Patients Are at Higher Risk – Changes in collagen and the extracellular matrix make individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome more prone to tethered cord syndrome, which can be congenital or acquired.

Tethered Cord Syndrome Affects the Entire Spine – While traditionally thought to impact only the lower body, new research suggests TCS can cause upper body pain, weakness, and neurological dysfunction.

Surgery Isn’t Always the First Step – Physical therapy, craniosacral therapy, and manual techniques may help some patients, but progressive neurological decline may require surgical release.

Retethering is Possible After Surgery – Around 7% of patients may need a second surgery due to scar tissue reattaching the spinal cord, but new surgical techniques are improving long-term outcomes.

Articles referenced in the episode:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38489815/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38202013/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35307588/

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Find the episode transcript here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Petra Klinge

Website: https://www.brownhealth.org/providers/petra-m-klinge-md-phd

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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Hidden Triggers of Complex Illness with Dr. David Kaufman (Ep 136) Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. David Kaufman, a specialist in complex illnesses, to discuss how infections, immune dysfunction, and connective tissue disorders intersect. They explore why many chronic illnesses are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This includes conditions like ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyeltiis/chronic fatigue syndrome), Long COVID, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia, Dr. Kaufman shares insights on the role of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Lyme Disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and other infections in triggering chronic conditions. They also dive into peptides, plasmapheresis, exosomes, and mitochondrial health as potential treatment avenues. If you've struggled to get answers about complex illness, this episode is packed with groundbreaking insights and expert advice.

Takeaways:

Complex Illness Requires a Multi-System Approach – Chronic conditions like ME/CFS, EDS, MCAS, and dysautonomia are interconnected, requiring a holistic approach rather than isolated treatments.

Infections Can Trigger or Worsen Chronic Illness – Epstein-Barr virus, Lyme disease, and other chronic infections often reactivate in immune-compromised individuals, leading to long-term symptoms.

Peptides and Exosomes Show Promise – Treatments like thymosin alpha-1, BPC-157, and exosomes may help modulate immune function and promote healing.

Pelvic Congestion & Blood Flow Issues Matter – Unrecognized vascular issues, like May-Thurner syndrome and pelvic congestion syndrome, can contribute to POTS and hemodynamic instability.

Mitochondrial Health is Key to Recovery – Addressing mitochondrial dysfunction through targeted therapies can help reduce fatigue and improve overall health in complex illness patients.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Find this episode's transcript here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. David Kaufman

Blue Sky: @kaufmanmd.bsky.social

Website: https://www.centerforcomplexdiseases.com/

Podcast Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkJiyBgDrgE5xWi3_tFsXHg

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Truth About Hormone Therapy | Office Hours (EP 135) Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein dives deep into the complex world of hormones, menopause, and connective tissue disorders. She explores how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone impact joint health, the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and why menopause can worsen EDS symptoms. Dr. Bluestein also breaks down gender-affirming hormone therapy, the role of mast cells in hormonal responses, and why some testosterone clinics may not have your best interests at heart. Whether you're considering HRT, navigating menopause with hypermobility, or wondering how hormones influence mast cells, this episode is packed with practical advice and science-backed insights.

Takeaways:

Hormones Affect Connective Tissue & Joint Stability – Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone all influence collagen production, ligament strength, and tissue elasticity, which is why hormonal changes impact pain and mobility.

Menopause Can Worsen EDS Symptoms – The decline in estrogen post-menopause contributes to joint pain, fatigue, and increased injury risk, making HRT a potential tool for symptom management.

Testosterone Therapy Has Benefits & Risks – While testosterone can improve muscle mass, bone density, and fatigue, it must be monitored carefully to avoid cardiovascular risks, clotting issues, and hormone imbalances.

Be Cautious with Hormone Clinics – Some online or walk-in testosterone clinics prioritize sales over patient health, so always ensure proper lab testing and medical oversight before starting HRT.

Mast Cells Respond to Hormonal Changes – Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can trigger mast cell activation, impacting inflammation, pain, and allergic responses—especially in conditions like MCAS and POTS.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Find the transcript for this episode here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Sjogren’s is Often Misdiagnosed with Dr. Kara Wada (Ep 134) Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy and immunology expert, to explore Sjogren’s disease and its connection to hypermobility, dysautonomia, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). They discuss why Sjogren’s is one of the most underdiagnosed autoimmune conditions, its symptoms beyond dryness, and how it intertwines with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) and EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes). Dr. Wada also dives into Sjogren’s diagnostic challenges, emerging treatments, nutrition strategies, and the role of inflammation in fatigue and pain. Whether you’re navigating autoimmune symptoms or looking for practical tools to manage them, this episode is filled with expert insights and actionable advice.

Find this episode's transcript here:

https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/sjogrens-misdiagnosis-dr-kara-wada/

Takeaways:

Sjogren’s is Massively Underdiagnosed – Up to 75% of people with Sjogren’s remain undiagnosed, in part because its symptoms extend far beyond dryness and don’t always present in a textbook way.

Autoimmune Conditions & EDS Are Connected – Sjogren’s, POTS, and MCAS frequently overlap due to their shared impact on the immune and nervous systems, making diagnosis and treatment complex.

Dryness is Just the Beginning – Sjogren’s can cause neuropathy, fatigue, dysautonomia, gastrointestinal issues, and even a higher risk of lymphoma, making it more than just an inconvenience.

Current Treatments Are Limited but Improving – There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for Sjogren’s, but promising treatments are currently in phase 3 trials, offering hope for better management

Nutrition & Lifestyle Matter – Avoiding ultra-processed foods, prioritizing hydration, and incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients can help manage symptoms and support immune function.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Past Episodes:

https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/linking-mast-cell-activation-autoimmunity-and-eds/

https://www.drkarawada.com/podcasts/becoming-immune-confident/episodes/2148563154

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Karen Wada

Twitter: @CrunchyAllergy

Instagram: @immuneconfidentmd

TikTok: @immuneconfidentmd

FB: @KaraWadaMD

YT: @drkarawada

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Internists Think About Complex Illness with Dr. Matthew Watto (Ep 133) Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with Dr. Matthew Watto, an internist and co-host of The Curbsiders podcast, about how patients can work effectively with their internist to get the best care. They discuss how internists think, why appointment times are limited, and strategies for getting the most out of every visit. Dr. Watto shares behind-the-scenes insights on primary care challenges, chronic pain management, and the medical system's limitations, while also offering practical tips for improving doctor-patient communication. If you've ever felt frustrated navigating the healthcare system, this episode provides game-changing strategies to help you get the care you need.

Takeaways:

Internists Have Limited Training in EDS & Hypermobility – Many internists receive little to no education on hypermobility-related conditions, making patient education and advocacy essential.

Appointment Time is Short—Be Prepared – Most internists have at the very most 15-20 minutes for follow-ups and 30-40 minutes for new patients, so bringing a prioritized list of concerns helps maximize the visit.

Ask for a Collaborative Approach – Internists are generalists, meaning they oversee a wide range of conditions. Patients with complex conditions should request coordination between specialists for better care.

Concierge & Academic Medicine May Offer More Time – Patients who need longer appointments or more personalized care may benefit from concierge medicine, academic medical centers, or direct primary care models.

Doctors Want to Help, But the System is Broken – Many doctors feel frustrated by short appointment times, insurance barriers, and administrative burdens. Patient-doctor teamwork is key to navigating these challenges.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Find the transcript for this episode here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Matthew Watto

YT: @TheCurbsiders

IG: @thecurbsiders

Twitter: @/thecurbsiders & @doctorwatto

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reversing Brain Fog & Inflammation with Dr. Ilene Ruhoy (Ep 132) Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, for an in-depth discussion on brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and chronic fatigue in conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia. Dr. Ruhoy shares insights on the immune system’s role in neurological symptoms, the impact of mast cell activation, and the role of treatments like peptides, IVIG (intravenous gammaglobulin), plasmapheresis, and immune modulators. They also discuss the hidden effects of histamine on the brain, how sensory sensitivity contributes to fatigue, and the role of regenerative medicine in connective tissue healing. This episode is packed with cutting-edge research and practical solutions for improving cognitive function and energy levels.

Takeaways:

Brain Fog & Fatigue Are Linked to Immune Dysfunction: Cognitive dysfunction in conditions like EDS, MCAS, and POTS is often tied to inflammatory responses and immune dysregulation rather than just histamine alone.

Plasmapheresis & IVIG Can Help Some Patients: For severe cases, plasmapheresis removes inflammatory mediators from the blood, and IVIG helps regulate immune function, leading to cognitive and fatigue improvements.

Histamine Plays a Complex Role in Brain Function: While histamine can trigger symptoms in MCAS patients, it also has neuroprotective effects, making antihistamine overuse a potential issue for some.

Sensory Sensitivity Increases Cognitive Load: Many people with EDS and related conditions experience hypersensitivity to light, noise, and smells, which can overwhelm the nervous system and worsen fatigue.

Regenerative Medicine May Support Connective Tissue Repair: Peptides, stem cell therapy, and targeted immune modulation are promising areas of research to help strengthen connective tissue and reduce systemic inflammation.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Ilene Ruhoy

Instagram: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD

TikTok: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD

Podcast (YT): @Unraveledpod

Twitter: @RuhoyMD

Bluesky: @ruhoy.bsky.social

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Testosterone is Essential for Women with Dr. Kelly Casperson (Ep 131) Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein chats with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a urologist and sexual health expert, about hormones, libido, and sexual wellness—especially for those with hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and related conditions. They dive into testosterone in women, hormone myths, bladder health, vaginal estrogen, and why pelvic floor therapy is a must. Dr. Casperson debunks common hormone fears, explains the role of mast cells and bladder issues, and shares insights on navigating intimacy with chronic illness. This episode is packed with must-know information on aging, sexual health, and proactive care for those with complex medical conditions.

Takeaways:

Testosterone is Essential for Women: Women naturally produce more testosterone than estrogen, but it's often overlooked in hormone therapy.

Vaginal Estrogen is a Game-Changer: It can reduce UTIs by 50%, improve bladder health, and prevent vaginal atrophy—yet many doctors don’t discuss it.

Pelvic Floor Therapy is a Must: A weak or overly tight pelvic floor can lead to pain, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction—physical therapy can help.

Hormone Myths Need Busting: Misinformation from past studies has caused unnecessary fear of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—many of those concerns are outdated.

Bladder Pain is Often Misdiagnosed: Many people diagnosed with interstitial cystitis may actually have pelvic floor dysfunction, hormone imbalances, or mast cell issues.

Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

My favorite books: https://bit.ly/3WHFQhq

Follow along with the episode transcript here.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Kelly Casperson

Instagram: @kellycaspersonmd

Facebook: @youarentbroken

YouTube: @kellycaspersonmd

Book: You Are Not Broken