Itchy and Bitchy

Mar 29 2025 187 ep. 24 mins 128

Itchy and Bitchy Podcast artwork

Nurse practitioner Karen Nickell discusses the realities of menopause and the female midlife in a way that is both informative and fun.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Health & Fitness

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Scalp Cooling to Spare Your Hair During Chemotherapy

Mar 29 2025 18 mins

Karen shares how a friend's breast cancer diagnosis became a powerful example of self-advocacy in action. From discovering she didn’t need chemotherapy after requesting additional testing, to researching scalp cooling treatments and skin protection during radiation, this story highlights how knowledge and persistence can lead to better care. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com t

The Best Health Advocate is YOU!

Mar 15 2025 20 mins

Karen shares a powerful listener story about self-advocacy in healthcare and how trusting your instincts can be lifesaving. After experiencing persistent symptoms that were initially dismissed by a doctor, this listener took charge of her health, sought a second opinion, and ultimately discovered a serious diagnosis.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the man

Menopause and HPV (Part 2 of 2)

Mar 01 2025 15 mins

Karen continues her discussion on HPV, focusing on the types of cancers it can cause and the best prevention methods. She breaks down the staggering statistics on HPV-related cancers, explains why the virus can remain dormant for decades, and highlights the importance of screening and early detection.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have

Menopause and HPV (Part 1 of 2)

Feb 22 2025 15 mins

Karen unpacks the risks of HPV for women in their perimenopausal and menopausal years. She explains how the virus spreads, why it can re-emerge decades after initial exposure, and how hormonal and immune system changes impact its persistence.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Iodine: This Element is Elemental!

Feb 15 2025 18 mins

Karen explores the importance of iodine and how its deficiency can impact overall health. She discusses the essential role iodine plays in thyroid function, metabolism, and cognitive development, particularly in pregnant women. Karen explains why iodine deficiency is on the rise, how to test for it, and the best ways to ensure adequate intake through diet and supplements.Visit our

Not Another UTI! Help on the Horizon

Feb 01 2025 12 mins

Karen explores the potential of UTI vaccines as an alternative to antibiotics for treating recurrent urinary tract infections. She explains how UTIs develop, why traditional antibiotic treatments often fail, and how vaccines work to boost the body's immune response.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Love Your Liver? Think Twice Before Starting Kava for Anxiety

Jan 18 2025 17 mins

Karen examines the use of kava supplements, exploring their potential benefits for anxiety and their serious risks, including liver toxicity. She highlights key studies on kava's effectiveness, explains its traditional use, and warns of its interactions with medications. She also shares a list of alternative supplements that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression witho

2025 Resolutions: Karen Has One, Do You?

Jan 04 2025 13 mins

Karen kicks off 2025 by examining the science behind New Year's resolutions. She explores why we make them, who is most likely to set goals for the new year, and the reasons resolutions often fail. She also shares practical tips for improving success rates, such as setting small, meaningful goals, using habit trackers, and practicing self-compassion after setbacks.Visit our website

The Great Undies Debate

Dec 21 2024 10 mins

Karen settles the great debate: should you sleep with or without underwear? She explores the health benefits and potential drawbacks of both choices. From reducing the risk of infections to promoting vaginal health, she provides research-backed insights to help you make the best decision for your body.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we hav

Baby, It's Cold Outside: What to Know About Cold Related Illness

Dec 07 2024 26 mins

Karen discusses the dangers of cold-related illnesses and how to stay safe during the winter months. She explains the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chillblains, and trench foot. Learn practical tips for dressing warmly, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and recognizing early warning signs of these conditions to prevent