Confessions of a Male Gynecologist

Latest Episodes:

130: Pap Smears: The History, The Myths and The Misinformation May 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses the importance of pap smears in women's health, addressing recent misinformation and the historical context of cervical cancer screening. He emphasizes the significance of regular screenings, the role of HPV, and the process of pap smears, while debunking myths propagated by health influencers. Dr. Tassone advocates for informed health choices and the necessity of understanding the medical procedures that can prevent cervical cancer.

Episode Highlights:

Pap smears and cervical cancer prevention
Misinformation about pap smears
How cervical cancer rates have significantly decreased due to screening
The history of the pap smear
HPV and cervical health
Why regular screenings are important
The pap smear process
Understanding results from pap smears
Health influencers and the spread of dangerous misinformation

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Purality Health!

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Visit puralityhealth.com/drshawn and use code DRSHAWN for exclusive savings.

Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

129: $HIT Shawn Says: Debunking Health Myths & The Truth About Trends May 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode Dr. Shawn Tassone and Maddie discuss various topics related to women's health, including the impact of AI on medical practices, the debunking of health myths, the rise of health tech, and the importance of understanding study validity. They also touch on the ethics of health influencers and the credibility of health products in the market.

Episode Highlights:

Why AI is likely to replace certain medical specialties.
Why misinformation in women's health is a significant concern.
How health trends often lack scientific backing.
Continuous glucose monitor trend
How online claims about health products often outpace actual results.
Why it's essential to critically evaluate health studies and their methodologies.
Reasons consumers should be informed and skeptical of health claims.
Why fear-based marketing is prevalent in health products.
Not all health influencers are credible; many promote products for profit.
Why if a health claim sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Purality Health!

The question isn't which supplements to take—it's whether your body can absorb them. Most traditional supplements fall victim to stomach acid before delivering benefits.

For perimenopausal and menopausal patients, I recommend their Vitamin D3 with K2 for bone density and mood regulation, and their exceptional magnesium formula for sleep and muscle tension.

As a physician, I value their commitment to quality: cGMP-compliant facilities, purity testing, and organic, non-GMO ingredients without unnecessary fillers.

Visit puralityhealth.com/drshawn and use code DRSHAWN for exclusive savings.

128: Casey Means, MAHA, and the Office of the Surgeon General May 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses the nomination of Casey Means as Surgeon General, exploring her background, credentials, and the implications of her appointment. He critiques the healthcare system, the role of functional medicine, and the influence of nutrition on health. Dr. Tassone emphasizes the importance of questioning the narratives presented by health influencers and the potential impact of the Surgeon General's role on public health policy.

Episode Highlights

The nomination of Casey Means
Questions about her qualification
Casey Means educational background
Thoughts on her residency
Why disillusionment in medicine is common, but quitting is controversial
Why functional medicine practices are critiqued as potentially exploitative
Reasons continuous glucose monitoring is viewed as a money-making scheme
Evaluating Casey Means' statements which may lack evidence
How the Surgeon General's role is often more symbolic than powerful

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Purality Health!

The question isn't which supplements to take—it's whether your body can absorb them. Most traditional supplements fall victim to stomach acid before delivering benefits.

For perimenopausal and menopausal patients, I recommend their Vitamin D3 with K2 for bone density and mood regulation, and their exceptional magnesium formula for sleep and muscle tension.

As a physician, I value their commitment to quality: cGMP-compliant facilities, purity testing, and organic, non-GMO ingredients without unnecessary fillers.

Visit puralityhealth.com/drshawn and use code DRSHAWN for exclusive savings.

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

After over 25 years of practicing medicine, I'll be the first to tell you that not all supplements are created equal. But when I discovered Dihydroberberine SR, by Endurance Products Company, I was genuinely impressed. It's highly bioavailable and outperforms standard berberine at significantly lower doses. You can explore their offerings at endur.com.

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As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

127: The Scam That Is Functional Medicine May 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses the complexities and controversies surrounding functional medicine and its distinction from integrative medicine. He critiques the rise of functional medicine practitioners, highlighting issues of credibility, ethical practices, and the commercialization of health services. Dr. Tassone emphasizes the importance of informed consumer choices in navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly in the context of hormone health and wellness.

Episode Highlights:

Why prevention should be emphasized as a key aspect of healthcare
How functional medicine has become as corrupt as traditional medicine
The truth about many self-proclaimed functional medicine practitioners who lack proper medical credentials
How Integrative Medicine focuses on a team approach to patient care
Functional medicine's origins are rooted in addressing chronic diseases
Why the criticism of functional medicine includes its reliance on unnecessary testing
Reasons consumers should be wary of health scams and marketing tactics
How informed consumerism is crucial in the healthcare industry

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Purality Health!

The question isn't which supplements to take—it's whether your body can absorb them. Most traditional supplements fall victim to stomach acid before delivering benefits.

For perimenopausal and menopausal patients, I recommend their Vitamin D3 with K2 for bone density and mood regulation, and their exceptional magnesium formula for sleep and muscle tension.

As a physician, I value their commitment to quality: cGMP-compliant facilities, purity testing, and organic, non-GMO ingredients without unnecessary fillers.

Visit puralityhealth.com/drshawn and use code DRSHAWN for exclusive savings.

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

126: Postmenopausal Bleeding: What Every Woman Needs To Know May 01, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses the complexities of postmenopausal bleeding, emphasizing the importance of understanding hormone health and the potential implications of bleeding in postmenopausal women. He outlines the diagnostic procedures, including ultrasounds and endometrial biopsies, and explains the significance of various results.

Dr. Tassone also addresses the management of endometrial polyps and fibroids, the common occurrence of spotting during hormone replacement therapy, and encourages women to seek medical advice when experiencing unusual symptoms. The conversation aims to educate and empower women regarding their hormonal health and the importance of early detection of potential issues.

Episode Highlights:

Postmenopausal bleeding should always be investigated.
Ultrasounds are crucial for assessing endometrial thickness.
Endometrial biopsies can be life-saving tests.
Spotting can be common when starting hormone therapy.
Polyps are usually benign but can cause bleeding.
Understanding hormone levels is key to managing symptoms.
Cancers develop over time, not suddenly.
Women should not fear hormone replacement therapy.
Early detection of uterine cancer is possible and important.
Consulting with a physician is essential for any unusual symptoms.

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

125: The Truth About Semaglutide Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

Semaglutide has become the weight management sensation of the decade, but what's the science behind the hype? In this episode, I break down how these GLP-1 agonists really work, why 85% of patients regain weight after stopping, and why I use them as just one tool in my comprehensive approach to metabolic health. From side effects to proper patient selection, get the unfiltered medical perspective you need before considering these medications.

Episode Highlights:

The meteoric rise of Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus that's causing nationwide shortages
How semaglutide actually works in your brain and digestive system to reduce appetite
Why patients regain weight after stopping and the importance of lifestyle integration
Real talk about side effects - from common digestive issues to rarer complications
The critical shift needed in how medicine approaches obesity treatment
Important differences between FDA-approved formulations and compounded alternatives
My professional recommendations for patient selection and monitoring protocols
How H.E.R. University supports comprehensive metabolic health beyond medication

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

124: Navigating PCOS: Insights from a Women's Dietitian Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Shawn Tassone, MD, PhD, speaks with Corey Ruth, a renowned dietitian specializing in PCOS. They discuss the challenges women face with PCOS, including gaslighting by healthcare providers, the importance of diet and lifestyle changes, and the psychological impact of the condition.

Corey shares her personal journey with PCOS, the significance of cooking and nutrition, and offers practical advice on managing symptoms through personalized dietary plans and supplements. The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to PCOS management, focusing on both physical and mental well-being.

In this conversation, Cory and Dr. Shawn Tassone delve into the complexities of managing PCOS, discussing dietary choices, the importance of fiber, and the role of alternative carbohydrates. They explore the PCOS Boss Academy, a program designed to help women manage their symptoms and weight. The discussion also touches on the impact of GLP-1 medications, the importance of involving partners in the journey, and common myths surrounding PCOS. Cory shares insights about her upcoming book, aimed at providing a comprehensive guide for women dealing with PCOS.

Episode Highlights:

How weight loss is often misrepresented as the sole solution for PCOS
Why women with PCOS experience gaslighting from healthcare providers
Dietary and lifestyle changes that are crucial for managing PCOS symptoms
How cooking at home can significantly improve health outcomes with PCOS
Why mindset plays a vital role in weight management and health
How supplements like inositol can be beneficial for women with PCOS
Effects of PCOS on women's confidence and self-image
Common symptoms of PCOS
A balanced diet for PCOS management
Foods beneficial for PCOS
About The PCOS Boss Academy
Why PCOS needs to be managed for life
GLP-1 medications and PCOS
Importance of involving partners in the journey of managing PCOS
Why exercise is crucial for long-term health, despite myths
Truth about gluten and dairy with PCOS
How to spot misinformation about PCOS
Cory's upcoming book aiming to fill the gap in PCOS literature.

Stay in Touch with Cory Ruth:

The Womens Dietician on Instagram | @thewomensdietician

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

123: Top 10 Biohacking Scams Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses the various scams and misleading trends in the wellness community, particularly focusing on biohacking. He critiques popular health claims, such as the benefits of hydrogen water, cold plunges, and mouth taping, while emphasizing the lack of scientific evidence supporting these practices. Dr. Tassone also highlights the dangers of certain health products, including stem cell patches and energy blocking stickers, and encourages listeners to be informed consumers in a market filled with misinformation.

Episode Highlights:

How biohacking is often a marketing ploy rather than a legitimate health practice
Why many wellness trends lack scientific backing and can be harmful
Reasons cold plunges may not provide the benefits claimed by marketers
The truth about mouth taping
Energy blocking stickers false claims
Truth about stem cell patches
Why the carnivore diet is not a one-size-fits-all solution
Reasons continuous glucose monitors may not be necessary for everyone
Scammers in the wellness industry prioritizing profit over health
Why consumers should critically evaluate health claims and products

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

122: $hit Shawn Says: Unfiltered Medicine and Navigating Women's Health in the Age of AI Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Tassone discusses various topics related to women's health, including the implications of over-the-counter birth control, the role of birth control in managing hormonal issues, the future of medical education in the age of AI, and innovations in breast cancer screening such as thermography. He also addresses the challenges posed by healthcare insurance and the importance of patient empowerment in making informed health decisions.

Episode Highlights:

Birth control access is empowering for women
Why self-medication is a concern with over-the-counter birth control
Why doctors often prescribe birth control as a quick fix for hormonal issues
Risks and benefits of long-term birth control use
How AI may change the landscape of medical specialties in the future
How thermography and QT imaging offers a new approach to breast cancer screening
Insurance practices can complicate access to necessary healthcare
Why Dr. Tassone thinks medical education is evolving, but challenges remain
Reasons patient empowerment is crucial in navigating healthcare decisions
Reasons Innovations in women's health are promising but require careful consideration

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

121: The Hormone Balance Bible, The 12 Archetypes, and The SHINES Protocol Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

"Your normal is different than everybody else's."

There's so much misinformation out there about hormones. The misunderstanding of the Women's Health Initiative findings did massive damage to women's health. It basically ruined an entire generation of physicians who now buy into the false narrative on the dangers of hormone replacement.

Today I'm doing a review episode all about my book, The Hormone Balance Bible. I wrote the book not for you to read from cover to cover but so that you can look at the relevant sections as you go through certain stages of your life. In The Hormone Balance Bible, I break down the 12 hormonal archetypes and what to do to start the healing journey for each one.

For this episode, I'm talking about how you can start figuring out which archetype you are, the characteristics of each type, symptoms you might be noticing, the kinds of women I see in my practice for each archetype, and more. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

What I'm sharing today about the Hormone Balance Bible

The concept and creation of the Hormone Balance Bible

How I came up with the twelve hormonal archetypes

Why it was important to me to include processes with which women could heal themselves

Archetype #1: The Queen - Estrogen Dominance

Archetype #2: The Unbalanced Heroine - Progesterone Deficiency

Archetype #3: The Mother - High Estrogen, Low Progesterone

Archetype #4: The Wise Woman - Menopause

Archetype #5: The Workaholic - Excess Cortisol

Archetype #6: The Saboteur - Low Cortisol

Archetype #7: The Nun - Low Testosterone

Archetype #8: The Warrior - High Testosterone

Archetype #9: The Underdog - Hypothyroidism/Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Archetype #10: The Overachiever - Hyperthyroidism

Archetype #11: The Chairwoman - Estrogen Dominance + Excess Cortisol

Archetype #12: The Philosopher

The medical system's poor treatment of menopausal women

Episode Resources:

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Practice | https://www.drshawntassone.com

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible

Dr. Shawn Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Mapping System | Hormone Archetype Quiz

Thank you to our sponsor, Endurance Products Company!

As a special offer for my audience, Endurance Products Company is providing a 10% discount on your order! Simply use the code DRT10 at checkout when you visit endur.com.

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