Fertility, Pregnancy & Moving Our Knowledge Forward

Fertility and reproductive health are vital aspects of a woman’s well-being. That’s why, across the country, scientists and researchers at institutes supported by Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) member Foundations are working to shed new light on complex conditions like endometriosis and pregnancy-related complications. These areas of study are crucial, as they not only impact a woman’s health and her ability to have children if she chooses, but also affect her overall quality of life. Advancements in knowledge in these areas are helping healthcare providers better understand specific conditions and deliver the high-quality care that all women deserve.

At BC Women’s Hospital, Drs. Karen Tran and Wee-Shian Chan are developing and testing new methods to detect and monitor hypertensive disorders in pregnant women. These conditions account for a significant portion of maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although our understanding of this area has expanded significantly over the past decades, more information is needed on how to most effectively measure blood pressure in pregnant women. Dr. Tran and Dr. Chan are launching a study to examine how home blood pressure tele-monitoring may provide more accurate assessments in high-risk women. With more precise and earlier detection of high blood pressure, these researchers aim to implement earlier interventions to improve health outcomes for mothers and their babies.

In Alberta, Amanda de Oliveira, a postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Sandra Davidge’s lab at the University of Alberta, is leading research to understand and prevent risks related to pre-eclampsia, a common yet serious blood pressure condition that can develop during pregnancy. In collaboration with Dr. Davidge, de Oliveira received a prestigious Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship to investigate how pre-eclampsia affects maternal blood vessels during and after pregnancy. Her research, supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, involves using pre-clinical models to study the mechanisms behind these long-term health risks and aims to develop effective prevention strategies.

In addition to supporting women’s health during and after pregnancy, it is also critical that women are supported as they navigate the journey to becoming pregnant—a journey that is unique to every woman and not without challenges. At the Women’s Health Research Institute in BC, Daniela Palombo, an Associate Professor of psychology at UBC, is studying how women and people process and remember the challenges of infertility and how these experiences impact their identity and well-being. Her work, supported by a Catalyst Grant from the BC Women’s Health Foundation, aims to enrich our collective understanding of how a woman’s fertility journey affects her mental health and psychological well-being.

As we work together to advance our knowledge in this field, the importance of education, research, and open dialogue cannot be overstated. Each aspect, whether it’s understanding fertility or managing pregnancy complications, contributes to a broader picture of women’s health.

These outstanding researchers are just a few examples of how knowledge around women’s health is being advanced at research centers supported by WHCC member Foundations across Canada. Together, with your support, we’re helping to create a healthier future for all women.

The Cost of Silence: How Shame and Stigma Impact Women’s Health

Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. We must work to break down the cultural barriers that perpetuate stigma and encourage open, honest conversations. Healthcare providers, educators, researchers, and community leaders all have roles in fostering an environment where women feel safe and supported in discussing their health concerns.

Research can play a crucial role in helping to alleviate the shame associated with sensitive health topics by contributing to better understanding and normalizing conditions. By sharing evidence-based information, research can challenge societal taboos and encourage more open discussions. This empowers individuals to seek medical help without fear of judgement, increases public awareness, and ultimately results in better health outcomes. Additionally, research findings can guide healthcare providers in offering compassionate and informed care, further reducing the stigma and shame that patients may feel.

Examples are conditions like painful periods and painful sex, which are common yet often shrouded in stigma. The stigma stretches into the realm of sexuality, where age-old taboos make it hard to discuss and address problems like STIs. Fertility issues, too, bring confusion and embarrassment, leaving many women without support that could otherwise help them. Even menopause, a universal experience, is frequently surrounded by shame, highlighting how deeply these stigmas run.

Researchers across the Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) member foundations are working to better understand stigmas can be reduced, and to foster open, evidence-based conversations about women’s health.

One example is Dr. Jane Schulz, a professor and chair of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta, and the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation Chair in Women’s Health Research. Dr. Schulz’s research focuses on urinary incontinence, a condition often accompanied by embarrassment. In an interview with the Royal Alexandra Hospital, Dr. Schulz stated, “Body fluids do not faze us. We want to see what is going on so we can help people.” Dr. Schulz works to treat patients while also researching the extent to which women may be inhibited from seeking care due to shame or stigma. Some of Dr. Schulz’s past research shows the issue is even worse for new Canadians. “Women from marginalized or minority populations simply suffer in silence,” she said. Understanding this means that strategies can be developed or adapted to meet people where they are and help them get the care they need.

In British Columbia, Dr. Lori Brotto, the executive director of the Women’s Health Research Institute and director of UBC’s Sexual Health Laboratory, works to understand how various factors impede healthy sexuality. Dr. Brotto’s compassionate and supportive approach is a great example of how open conversation around a potentially sensitive topic like sexual desire and arousal, can help mitigate shame and improve women’s lives in a tangible way.

Research in this area was also highlighted in “Between Us: An Interactive Talk on Painful Sex,” an online panel hosted by the Urogynecology Wellness Clinic at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women which featured Dr. Annick Poirier, Dr. Lana Myroniuk, Dr. Erin Kelly, and Dr. May Sanaee, who discussed painful sex and related health conditions. The panel highlighted that up to 75% of women will experience pain during sex at some point in their lives, yet this issue is often overlooked because of its taboo nature.Panels and public awareness campaigns like these are crucial in the effort to destigmatize women’s health and redefine what is “normal”.

Despite being a universal experience for women, menopause is another area where stigma and feelings of shame may inhibit women from seeking care. They may avoid seeking medical advice or exploring treatments that could significantly improve their quality of life. By perpetuating the idea that menopause is something to be hidden or endured quietly, this stigma not only impacts women’s physical well-being but also their emotional and mental health.

At Women’s College Hospital, Dr. Iliana Lega and Dr. Michelle Jacobson are exploring treatment options for menopausal women. They identify that a lack of public awareness about treatments, such as hormone therapy, coupled with the shame and stigma surrounding menopause, prevents many women from seeking care.

Across WHCC’s member foundations, groundbreaking work is underway to combat the shame and misinformation around certain topics in women’s health by moving research forward. These dedicated researchers are united in their mission, striving to create a world where every woman can access the care and support she needs without fear or shame.

The Cost of Silence: How Shame and Stigma Impact Women’s Health

In today’s world, where we have unprecedented access to information and healthcare, it’s easy to assume that women feel empowered to speak openly about their health and seek care. However, shame and stigma still cast shadows over many aspects of women’s health, particularly when it comes to conditions that may feel sensitive or embarrassing. From reproductive health issues, to mental health struggles or menopause, fear and shame can discourage women from talking about their health and seeking the care they need. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. We must work to break down the cultural barriers that perpetuate stigma and encourage open, honest conversations. Healthcare providers, educators, researchers, and community leaders all have roles in fostering an environment where women feel safe and supported in discussing their health concerns. Research can play a crucial role in helping to alleviate the shame associated with sensitive health topics by contributing to better understanding and normalizing conditions. By sharing evidence-based information, research can challenge societal taboos and encourage more open discussions. This empowers individuals to seek medical help without fear of judgement, increases public awareness, and ultimately results in better health outcomes. Additionally, research findings can guide healthcare providers in offering compassionate and informed care, further reducing the stigma and shame that patients may feel. Examples are conditions like painful periods and painful sex, which are common yet often shrouded in stigma. The stigma stretches into the realm of sexuality, where age-old taboos make it hard to discuss and address problems like STIs. Fertility issues, too, bring confusion and embarrassment, leaving many women without support that could otherwise help them. Even menopause, a universal experience, is frequently surrounded by shame, highlighting how deeply these stigmas run. Researchers across the Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) member foundations are working to better understand stigmas can be reduced, and to foster open, evidence-based conversations about women’s health. One example is Dr. Jane Schulz, a professor and chair of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta, and the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation Chair in Women’s Health Research. Dr. Schulz’s research focuses on urinary incontinence, a condition often accompanied by embarrassment. In an interview with the Royal Alexandra Hospital, Dr. Schulz stated, “Body fluids do not faze us. We want to see what is going on so we can help people.” Dr. Schulz works to treat patients while also researching the extent to which women may be inhibited from seeking care due to shame or stigma. Some of Dr. Schulz’s past research shows the issue is even worse for new Canadians. “Women from marginalized or minority populations simply suffer in silence,” she said. Understanding this means that strategies can be developed or adapted to meet people where they are and help them get the care they need. In British Columbia, Dr. Lori Brotto, the executive director of the Women’s Health Research Institute and director of UBC’s Sexual Health Laboratory, works to understand how various factors impede healthy sexuality. Dr. Brotto’s compassionate and supportive approach is a great example of how open conversation around a potentially sensitive topic like sexual desire and arousal, can help mitigate shame and improve women’s lives in a tangible way. Research in this area was also highlighted in “Between Us: An Interactive Talk on Painful Sex,” an online panel hosted by the Urogynecology Wellness Clinic at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women which featured Dr. Annick Poirier, Dr. Lana Myroniuk, Dr. Erin Kelly, and Dr. May Sanaee, who discussed painful sex and related health conditions. The panel highlighted that up to 75% of women will experience pain during sex at some point in their lives, yet this issue is often overlooked because of its taboo nature.Panels and public awareness campaigns like these are crucial in the effort to destigmatize women’s health and redefine what is “normal”. Despite being a universal experience for women, menopause is another area where stigma and feelings of shame may inhibit women from seeking care. They may avoid seeking medical advice or exploring treatments that could significantly improve their quality of life. By perpetuating the idea that menopause is something to be hidden or endured quietly, this stigma not only impacts women’s physical well-being but also their emotional and mental health. At Women’s College Hospital, Dr. Iliana Lega and Dr. Michelle Jacobson are exploring treatment options for menopausal women. They identify that a lack of public awareness about treatments, such as hormone therapy, coupled with the shame and stigma surrounding menopause, prevents many women from seeking care. Across WHCC’s member foundations, groundbreaking work is underway to combat the shame and misinformation around certain topics in women’s health by moving research forward. These dedicated researchers are united in their mission, striving to create a world where every woman can access the care and support she needs without fear or shame.

How We Can Support Women Athletes Through Research

Beyond the Olympics, pay equity movements for women athletes are making headway, and organizations like the PWHL are creating new platforms for professional women’s sports.

However, equity in sports is about more than just pay or visibility. Equity is also about dedicating resources to supporting women athletes at all stages of their development. There is still a major need to advance our understanding of the effects of sports and physical activity on women’s health and to provide women athletes with the same opportunities for excellence enjoyed by their male counterparts.

One legacy of underinvestment in this area is the alarming rate of sports injury among women athletes versus men. Women are two to eight times more likely to experience ACL tears than men. It was once believed that biological factors were purely to blame – leading to the conclusion that women’s bodies are simply less capable than men’s. According to researchers in BC and Alberta, female beauty standards, fewer training opportunities, and limited resources may also contribute to the problem. Research has evolved our understanding and improved how women athletes are supported. However, more research is still badly needed.

At this year’s Olympics, Team Canada will include several athletes who are also mothers, such as boxer Mandy Bujold and basketball player Paige Crozon. Their participation highlights how supporting women athletes increases their opportunities for achievement. Many women athletes feel they must choose between their sport and motherhood, putting them in a difficult position. Groups like MOMentum are working to support women athletes so they don’t have to choose.

Meanwhile, new research by Dr. Margie Davenport, a former national team athlete and Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, is clarifying how and when women who are pregnant or postpartum can safely exercise. Dr. Davenport’s work has shown that it is safe, and beneficial, to both mother and baby to engage in moderately intense exercise while pregnant. While this does not mean it is safe for pregnant women to compete at the Olympic level, Dr. Davenport’s work is helping international sporting bodies create policies around when athletes can safely return to high-level sports after giving birth. Her work also encourages women of all skill levels to remain physically active during pregnancy.

By dispelling assumptions and clearing up outdated science about women’s bodies and health, researchers are moving our collective knowledge forward. This research can help women athletes reach greater heights of sporting excellence. More work must still be done, but the research of Dr. Davenport and others is moving the ball forward in a big way. Go team!

How We Can Support Women Athletes Through Research

It’s an exciting moment for women’s sports. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games start this week and there is a lot to look forward to this year. Canada will send its first-ever 3×3 women’s basketball team to the competition, while Penny Oleksiak, Canada’s most decorated athlete, will return to the pool to race for gold and add to her already impressive medal count. We’re excited to cheer on these athletes and all of Team Canada! Beyond the Olympics, pay equity movements for women athletes are making headway, and organizations like the PWHL are creating new platforms for professional women’s sports. However, equity in sports is about more than just pay or visibility. Equity is also about dedicating resources to supporting women athletes at all stages of their development. There is still a major need to advance our understanding of the effects of sports and physical activity on women’s health and to provide women athletes with the same opportunities for excellence enjoyed by their male counterparts. One legacy of underinvestment in this area is the alarming rate of sports injury among women athletes versus men. Women are two to eight times more likely to experience ACL tears than men. It was once believed that biological factors were purely to blame – leading to the conclusion that women’s bodies are simply less capable than men’s. According to researchers in BC and Alberta, female beauty standards, fewer training opportunities, and limited resources may also contribute to the problem. Research has evolved our understanding and improved how women athletes are supported. However, more research is still badly needed. At this year’s Olympics, Team Canada will include several athletes who are also mothers, such as boxer Mandy Bujold and basketball player Paige Crozon. Their participation highlights how supporting women athletes increases their opportunities for achievement. Many women athletes feel they must choose between their sport and motherhood, putting them in a difficult position. Groups like MOMentum are working to support women athletes so they don’t have to choose. Meanwhile, new research by Dr. Margie Davenport, a former national team athlete and Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, is clarifying how and when women who are pregnant or postpartum can safely exercise. Dr. Davenport’s work has shown that it is safe, and beneficial, to both mother and baby to engage in moderately intense exercise while pregnant. While this does not mean it is safe for pregnant women to compete at the Olympic level, Dr. Davenport’s work is helping international sporting bodies create policies around when athletes can safely return to high-level sports after giving birth. Her work also encourages women of all skill levels to remain physically active during pregnancy. By dispelling assumptions and clearing up outdated science about women’s bodies and health, researchers are moving our collective knowledge forward. This research can help women athletes reach greater heights of sporting excellence. More work must still be done, but the research of Dr. Davenport and others is moving the ball forward in a big way. Go team!

Early Onset Breast Cancer + A Pride Month Message

This June, WHCC is highlighting the concerning rise of early-onset breast cancer, which defined as breast cancer diagnosed in women under the age of 45.

According to a new study published in April the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal (CARJ), between 1984 and 2019, there was a 45.5-per-cent increase in breast cancer incidence among women in their twenties. For women in their thirties, there was a 12.5 per-cent increase over the same period.

Research shows that both genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors contribute to a woman’s risk of having breast cancer, but further investigation is needed to fully understand the causes and risk factors behind the recent increase.

Some potential lifestyle causes have been identified and include lifestyle factors such as increased consumption of processed foods, alcohol, and less exercise, according to Dr. Shuji Ogino who was quoted in a Globe and Mail article about the trend.

Interestingly, according to the CARJ article, the fact that many women are delaying or opting out of having children may be at play, as hormone changes during and after pregnancy may lower the risk of breast cancer.

This research is critical as it informs of the risks and presentations of breast cancer among women of all ages, improves early detection and lowers mortality rates.

Another study from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) found that “nearly 7 in 10 premature cancer deaths in women could have been prevented through early detection and intervention.” This means that in Canada alone, thousands of deaths could be avoided.

Research like this, and other projects being conducted at WHCC-associated institutes such as the Allard Hereditary Breast & Ovarian Cancer Clinic at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women in Edmonton is advancing our understanding of the disease and its causes.

At the same time, programs like Every Breast Counts at Women’s College Hospital are crucial in raising awareness and promoting early detection.

Happy Pride from WHCC

This Pride Month, we celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and recognize the need for health research to expand its horizons and agendas to reflect the reality of sexual and gender diversity. WHCC is committed to inclusion and strives to create a supportive environment for all —regardless of sexual orientation or gender.

One example of how research agendas are taking an inclusive approach is Beyond the Binary Canada, a national resource launching October 16.

Beyond the Binary Canada aims to integrate gender inclusive and equitable practices into women’s health research, benefitting people across the gender spectrum by fostering partnerships, creating dialogue, and advancing knowledge.

Keep an eye out for the national launch of the program, and sign up for the October 16 launch event here.

Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women

The Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women is the largest event series in Canada dedicated to women’s mental health. With 5K and 10K run/walk events hosted in 18 Canadian communities nationwide, this event series has raised over $20 million for women’s mental health programs across the country.

A portion of proceeds from the events will be donated to WHCC member Foundations across Canada to support cutting-edge mental health research. Thank you to Shoppers Drug Mart®!

For more information on how to participate or donate, visit the Run for Women website.

Between Us: An Interactive Talk on Painful Sex

On Thursday, May 30, the Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society, in collaboration with Alberta Blue Cross, hosted an interactive session titled “Between Us: An Interactive Talk on Painful Sex”.

The May session of Between Us aimed to help women find more pleasure in their sex lives by discussing myths, mysteries, and misconceptions around painful sex and potential health-related conditions, empowering individuals to better manage their sexual experiences.

The talk featured a panel of four physicians from the Urogynecology Wellness Clinic at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women: Dr. Annick Poirier, Dr. Lana Myroniuk, Dr. Erin Kelly, and Dr. May Sanaee.

Find the full video on the Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society YouTube page.

All for A Berry Good Cause – Denny’s Canada raises over $10,000 in support of women’s health

In honour of Mother’s Day and recognizing the importance of all mother figures, Denny’s partnered with Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) earlier this month to host a special fundraiser. From May 7^th to 12^th, $2 from each Berry Stuffed French Toast Slam sold in 69 participating locations across Canada was donated to support women’s health research in Canada.

Thanks to the unwavering loyalty of their guests, Denny’s is thrilled to announce that they were able to raise over $10,000. This incredible amount of money will ensure WHCC can continue its collaborative work in creating access to better and more equal healthcare.

“We have always been active members of the communities we serve. We are honoured to partner with Women’s Health Collective Canada on our Mother’s Day fundraiser, supporting the move forward into more inclusive healthcare programs,” shares Deborah Gagnon, President & Chief Operating Officer of Denny’s Canada. “We’re so thankful to our team members and guests for participating in these meaningful events over the years.”

Founded in 2021, Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) is a strategic alliance of three of Canada’s leading women’s health and hospital foundations, the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation (AWHF), BC Women’s Health Foundation, and Women’s College Hospital Foundation. The purpose of WHCC is to raise awareness for equity in women’s health research.

Through intentional collaboration and unified advocacy, WHCC brings resources together to address the legacy of inequity through the following;

Supporting medical research that addresses the unique needs of women
Raising awareness of the gender health gap, dispelling misconceptions about women’s health, and highlighting how healthy women create a healthier Canada
Broadening the scope and reach of world-class women’s health programs to connect with every woman
Creating higher standards of care for all women

“Our Mother’s Day partnership with Denny’s demonstrates our shared commitment to support the health of Canadian women,” says Cally Wesson, President & CEO of BC Women’s Health Foundation. “At WHCC, our mission is to end the health research gap that, even today, continues to affect women. This initiative contributes to our work to close that gap. We are grateful to Denny’s and every guest for making this possible.”

For over 70 years, Denny’s has been a place where everyone is welcome to sit down and connect. The renowned restaurant brand prides itself on working and actively engaging with their guests to make a positive impact through collaboration with meaningful organizations. They believe that local businesses and communities grow together when there is partnership and support.

For more details about our fundraising efforts, please visit https://www.dennys.ca/promotions/thank-you-whcc/.

More information is available online here.

Denny’s Canada invites guests to enjoy a sweet treat in support of women’s health

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In recognition of Mother’s Day on May 12^th, Denny’s Canada is delighted to announce that they have partnered with Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) to host a special fundraiser. From May 7^th to 12^th, in participating stores across Canada, $2 from each Berry Stuffed French Toast Slam order will be donated to help shape a more inclusive future for women’s health.

Founded in 2021, Women’s Health Collective Canada (WHCC) is a strategic alliance of three of Canada’s leading women’s health and hospital foundations, the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation (AWHF), BC Women’s Health Foundation, and Women’s College Hospital Foundation. The purpose of the WHCC is to raise awareness for equity in women’s health research.

Through intentional collaboration and unified advocacy, WHCC brings resources together to address the legacy of inequity through the following;

Supporting medical research that addresses the unique needs of women
Raising awareness of the gender health gap, dispelling misconceptions about women’s health, and highlighting how healthy women create a healthier Canada
Broadening the scope and reach of world-class women’s health programs to connect with every woman
Creating higher standards of care for all women

“WHCC is pleased to partner with Denny’s for their Mother’s Day campaign, which celebrates mothers across the country and supports the work of WHCC to advance women’s health research,” says Sharlene Rutherford, President & CEO, of Alberta Women’s Health Foundation. “We are grateful for Denny’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of women, their families, and all Canadians as a result.”

For the full list of participating locations and more details about the WHCC, please visit https://www.dennys.ca/promotions/mothers-day/.

ABOUT DENNY’S CANADA

Dencan Restaurants Inc., headquartered in Vancouver and owned by Northland Properties Corporation, currently operates and franchises 74 Denny’s restaurants across Canada. Part of the highly regarded worldwide Denny’s organization, Dencan Restaurants Inc. has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality food and guest satisfaction. From fluffy pancakes to crispy bacon, to juicy burgers, to something from the Fit Fare® Menu, guests will always find delicious value and variety.

More information can be found at www.dennys.ca or on social @dennyscanada.

Breaking the Silence about Menopause and Mental Wellness + A Mother’s Day Partnership

This Mother’s Day, let’s toast to our amazing moms and mother figures! In celebration of moms and women everywhere, WHCC is proud to partner with Denny’s Canada on a campaign to support women’s health research. From May 7 – 12, $2 from every Berry Stuffed French Toast Slam ordered at participating Denny’s locations across Canada will go to WHCC. We thank Denny’s Canada for their support!

Amidst the celebration, we also recognize health challenges many women face, such as the often-overlooked mental effects of menopause and perimenopause. Did you know that, according to new research published in the Journal of Affective Disorders nearly 40% of women experience increased anxiety, depression, and mood swings during perimenopause?

Stigmas about menopause and perimenopause mean that those suffering from its symptoms may not speak openly about them.

The toll this takes on women’s mental health can be severe. Symptoms themselves are added to by the fact that 40% of women feel alone in their menopause experience, according to a report from the Menopause Foundation of Canada.

Individual physical and mental impacts are significant, but the effect doesn’t stop there. According to another report from the Menopause Foundation of Canada, “unmanaged symptoms of menopause cost the Canadian economy an estimated $3.5 billion each year.”

To address these challenges and understand the impact menopause has on women’s mental health, robust research is necessary. WHCC affiliate organizations and colleagues across Canada are working to do this research. Our partnerships with organizations like Denny’s are paramount to accomplishing our mission. Together, we can make a difference!

Why Sleep Health is So Important

Sleep can sometimes be an afterthought in the whirlwind of our lives — yet it is a critical part of our well-being and health.

One analysis of 30,000 Canadians published in Sleep Health reported that women experience “lower sleep satisfaction and efficiency compared to men,” indicating that while men and women get similar amounts of sleep, the quality often differs. This can impact a woman’s health as well as quality of life.

While adequate sleep health is important for everyone, the stakes are even higher for women. As a result of poor sleep, women experience higher levels of psychological distress and indicators of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.

Scientists and clinicians at WHCC’s member Foundations are working to learn more about gender-based differences in sleep.

The Lois Hole Hospital Women’s Society recently hosted a conversation with sleep researcher Dr. Silvia Pagliardini, of Alberta Women’s Health Foundation, and Registered Psychologist Vanessa Colombina from the Pine Integrated Health Centre called “Between Us: An Interactive Talk on Sleep and Sleep-Related Challenges.”

As part of the conversation, Dr. Pagliardini and Vanessa Colombina discuss how sleep interruptions or inconsistencies can make even simple tasks feel challenging, communication with others strained, and life seem overwhelmingly difficult. Here are a few key takeaways from that conversation:

Sleep disorders related to disturbances in the respiratory network in the brain can occur during sleep, particularly in menopause. Sometimes, conditions like sleep apnea can become a problem and affect the quality of sleep and overall well-being.
Hormones and role changes have an impact on women’s sleep. Vanessa Colombina recommends taking a multifaceted approach that includes mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural therapy. This can help manage these challenges.
Dr. Pagliardini’s research on the effects of the hormone offers insights into potential treatments for sleep-disordered breathing conditions. This research can lead to improved management of sleep disorders.
Vanessa Colombina says that by addressing both the mind and the body, individuals can improve their sleep quality and overall well-being.

The talk can be viewed in its entirety here.

Sleep Tips

If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s rest, Sleep Foundation has some tips for ensuring high quality sleep. These include:

Setting routine bed + wake times
Limiting caffeine + alcohol intake
Creating a calming bedtime routine
Exercising for at least 20 minutes a day
Reaching out to your doctor for support

To learn more, check out Sleep Foundation’s “Healthy Sleep Tips For Women.”