Living with POI: Naomi’s Story, Cultural Barriers & Why Awareness Matters

Guest: Naomi (POI Advocate, Founder of Speak Up for POI) In this powerful and deeply honest episode, we’re joined by Naomi, a passionate advocate raising awareness about premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), particularly within South Asian and marginalised communities. Diagnosed at 36, Naomi shares her personal journey—from years of missed symptoms and misdiagnosis to navigating hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and ultimately finding her voice through advocacy. Together, we explore the often-overlooked realities of hormone health, the global gaps in awareness and treatment access, and the cultural and societal pressures that can shape a woman’s experience of POI. This is a conversation about resilience, identity, and the urgent need for change in women’s healthcare worldwide. Naomi’s personal journey to a POI diagnosis and the missed opportunities along the way The profound impact of hormones on brain, bone, heart health—and overall wellbeing Why POI is so often misunderstood or misdiagnosed The realities of navigating HRT: when it works, when it doesn’t, and why persistence matters Cultural and societal pressures around fertility, marriage, and identity Barriers to healthcare access in South Asia and beyond The global gap in menopause and POI education—for both patients and clinicians The role of misinformation and the risks of unregulated “menopause” products How low hormone levels can affect motivation, mental health, and the ability to seek help The importance of awareness, advocacy, and finding community 1. Hormones Are Not Optional Hormones influence far more than reproductive health—they affect mood, cognition, energy, and identity. Yet they remain under-recognised in both clinical care and public awareness. 2. Diagnosis Delays Are Common Naomi’s experience highlights a familiar story: repeated GP visits, symptoms dismissed, and key hormone tests overlooked for years. 3. Cultural Context Matters In some communities, fertility is closely tied to a woman’s identity and social value. This can lead to silence, stigma, and delayed help-seeking. 4. Access to Treatment Is Unequal Globally, access to HRT—particularly transdermal options—varies significantly, leaving many women without appropriate care. 5. The Power of Awareness Education is the starting point for change—empowering women to advocate for themselves and improving outcomes across healthcare systems. “You are not alone. There are other women out there going through this. Reach out, find support, and don’t give up on finding the right treatment—you can feel better.” Keep a symptom diary to support conversations with your doctor Don’t be afraid to ask: “Why?” if something is dismissed Seek second opinions if needed Be aware that finding the right HRT can take time Look for trusted, evidence-based sources Prioritise connection—support groups can be life-changing Instagram: @speakup_for_poi Facebook Groups: POI Pakistan Support Group Daisy Network South Asia Community Organisation: Daisy Network This episode shines a light on the intersection of medicine, culture, and lived experience. It challenges us to rethink how we approach women’s health—and reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a story that deserves to be heard. Note correction - NIH study is not what we were meant to say in the podcast, it's actually WHI (we knew what was intended, just got the acronym wrong). Dr Nikki: @femalehealthdoc Kate: @fertility_menopause_support Dr Siobhan: @mylifeonpausepoi Nina: @soullaunndry_womenshealth Don't forget to follow us! @theprematuremenocast