Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode, he dives deep into the powerful potential, and the necessary precautions, of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in women. He shares why this once-taboo treatment is gaining traction, how it may reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 50%, and why lab testing and clinical nuance are absolutely non-negotiable. Dr. McCarthy also addresses medical betrayal, the rise of influencer-driven misinformation, and what it means to rece...
Jun 26, 2025•23 min•Ep. 145
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this deeply personal episode, he shares why lab work—especially testing FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)—is non-negotiable in hormone replacement therapy. This is not about gatekeeping. It’s about understanding. It’s about caring. Dr. McCarthy recounts a formative memory of meeting a woman who underwent surgical menopause and was never told what would happen to her body afterward. That moment shaped his lifelong mission to treat women with c...
Jun 19, 2025•21 min•Ep. 144
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, Dr. Brendan McCarthy breaks down common misconceptions about hormone testing and treatment during perimenopause — including why many influencers and physicians get it wrong. From the misuse of expensive boutique tests like the Dutch test, to the dangers of suppressive hormone therapies without proper lab monitoring, Dr. McCarthy explains the science behind hormone fluctuations, why labs do provide valuable insights, and the importa...
Jun 12, 2025•30 min•Ep. 143
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Can you start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or bioidentical hormones without lab testing? Technically—yes. But should you? In this episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center, shares his medical perspective on why skipping labs could put your health at risk. Responding to viral videos that suggest lab work is unnecessary, Dr. McCarthy walks you through: ✅ Why objective data matters—especially for hormone care...
Jun 05, 2025•18 min•Ep. 142
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! This episode takes you deep into the real-world practice of prescribing testosterone therapy for women. This is not a high-level overview—this is a nuts and bolts breakdown: ✅ Who it's for ✅ How it's dosed ✅ What labs to run ✅ What delivery methods are safest ✅ Why it's often done wrong—and how to get it right With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. McCarthy shares the insights no seminar or textbook can offer, including the emotional and ...
May 29, 2025•27 min•Ep. 141
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood and debated topics in hormone health: testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women. You may have heard horror stories—or glowing reviews. But what’s the truth? Dr. McCarthy discusses: - Why testosterone matters for women’s health - How it affects brain chemistry, mood, bone density, and even breast tissue - Its role after estrogen-suppressing breast cancer treatments - The differ...
May 22, 2025•22 min•Ep. 140
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today’s episode is all about testosterone therapy in women—a topic that’s often misunderstood, highly debated, and rarely taught in depth. I’m sharing what I’ve learned over my years of clinical experience, how I approach testosterone use in women safely, and why the conversation around it needs to evolve. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Protea has grown and evolved into a dyn...
May 15, 2025•18 min•Ep. 139
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Explore how progesterone travels through the body depending on the method of delivery—oral, transdermal, or injection. Dr. McCarthy explains why certain forms may not be effective for all patients and discusses how the body metabolizes progesterone, influencing its therapeutic impact. This episode is essential for anyone considering or currently on hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s...
May 09, 2025•31 min•Ep. 138
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today’s episode is all about answering YOUR submitted questions — real concerns from real women — about hormone therapy, reverse responses to progesterone, MTHFR, estrogen detoxification, and more. This episode is packed with insights to help you better understand your body and your options. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Protea has grown and evolved into a dynamic medical ce...
May 01, 2025•34 min•Ep. 137
Welcome to the podcast! In this deeply personal Q&A episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy—Chief Medical Officer at Protea Medical Center—responds to your most powerful and vulnerable questions about hormone replacement therapy, including: - Why some women reverse-respond to progesterone - What to do when testosterone creams trigger migraines - How to safely navigate HRT with MTHFR or methylation issues - The emotional toll of being dismissed by doctors - Why libido and vitality matter at every age -...
Apr 24, 2025•42 min•Ep. 136
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Welcome to Part 3. In this episode, Dr. McCarthy dives deep into the complex world of reverse responders—women who experience increased anxiety or worsened symptoms from progesterone instead of the calming effects it typically provides. If you’ve felt forgotten or unsupported in your hormone journey—this episode is for you. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Protea has grown and ...
Apr 17, 2025•16 min•Ep. 135
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! While progesterone is often prescribed for its calming and hormone-balancing effects, some women experience the exact opposite—increased anxiety, depression, and emotional instability. This phenomenon, known as reverse responding, is more common than many realize. In this episode we explore: The neurological effects of progesterone and why it can backfire The role of allopregnanolone and the GABA receptor How trauma, PTSD, and adverse childhood e...
Apr 09, 2025•17 min•Ep. 134
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today he addresses a topic many women have been waiting to hear more about: why some people don't tolerate progesterone well. Often overlooked in both conventional and alternative medicine, "reverse responders" experience heightened anxiety, insomnia, or mood shifts when taking progesterone — a reaction that defies the standard approach. Dr. McCarthy explores the science behind these responses, the emotional toll of being dismissed, and why deepe...
Apr 04, 2025•18 min•Ep. 133
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we're wrapping up our migraine series by answering your most frequently asked questions. Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer at Protea Medical Center, dives deep into the science behind progesterone, its effects on the brain, and why some people experience negative reactions. He also discusses estrogen therapy, common side effects, and why personalized medicine is key. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in ...
Mar 29, 2025•31 min•Ep. 132
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode, we dive into the complexities of migraines, particularly the role of triptans in treating them. Dr. McCarthy addresses a common misconception about migraine pathophysiology, discusses the importance of lifestyle and genetic factors, and explains why understanding the root causes of migraines is crucial for effective treatment. He emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach, going beyond just using medications like tript...
Mar 21, 2025•20 min•Ep. 131
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive deep into the root causes of migraines in women, with a focus on the powerful role of progesterone and the GABA pathway. Learn why simply treating symptoms with medication isn’t enough and how understanding hormone balance can lead to long-term relief. This is part two of our migraine series, where we explore how estrogen and progesterone fluctuations impact brain chemistry and neural inflammation. If you’re tired of being...
Mar 13, 2025•21 min•Ep. 130
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we go over the connection between estrogen and migraines. He explores how hormone fluctuations can trigger migraines, the role of serotonin, and how proper medical testing can lead to better treatment options. Dr. McCarthy also addresses common failures in traditional medicine, the importance of a full neurological workup, and why balancing estrogen is key to overall health. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 20...
Mar 10, 2025•21 min•Ep. 129
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive into headaches—particularly how women suffer from them more frequently than men. If you’ve been dealing with headaches that no one seems to understand, you’re not alone. This series is designed to offer insight and actionable advice, empowering you with the information you need to address the root causes of your pain. Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Pro...
Mar 10, 2025•14 min•Ep. 128
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Tempe, Arizona. Your feedback and comments shape the discussions we have here—because your voice matters. In this episode, Dr. McCarthy addresses some of the most common questions and misconceptions about menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). He breaks down the science, clears up misunderstandings, and emphasizes the importance of personalized care—whether you choose HRT or not. This ep...
Feb 20, 2025•30 min•Ep. 127
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! We continue our menopause series as we dive into the treatment segment! Struggling with menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or sleep issues? Hormone therapy (HRT) could be the solution! In this video, we break down how hormone treatment works, its benefits, risks, and who it’s best for. Learn the facts and take control of your health during menopause! This is Part 2 of 2 for Treatment Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Cent...
Feb 14, 2025•17 min•Ep. 126
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! We continue our menopause series as we dive into the treatment segment! Struggling with menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or sleep issues? Hormone therapy (HRT) could be the solution! In this video, we break down how hormone treatment works, its benefits, risks, and who it’s best for. Learn the facts and take control of your health during menopause! This is Part 1 of 2 for Treatment Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Cent...
Feb 11, 2025•15 min•Ep. 125
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are you experiencing changes in your body and wondering if it might be menopause? I’ll guide you through the key signs and symptoms of menopause, the role of hormonal changes, lab values and how to approach an accurate diagnosis. Understanding your body is the first step to managing this transition effectively. This is Part 2 of 4 Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Protea has gro...
Jan 31, 2025•25 min•Ep. 124
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, I'm giving a brief overview of what women experience during menopause and trying to find proper treatment. From common symptoms to the changes your body goes through, this is the first step in understanding this natural phase of life. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll dive deeper into symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. - This is Part 1 of 4 - Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s bee...
Jan 29, 2025•10 min•Ep. 122
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Autoimmune diseases can be complex and unpredictable, making treatment a significant challenge. From managing symptoms to addressing root causes, we uncover the hurdles in combating these conditions. How doctors should truly be helping YOU. Join me as we shed light on this crucial topic. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below! This is a continuation to my Autoimmunity series, Part 5 of 5 Dr. Brendan McCarth...
Jan 27, 2025•6 min•Ep. 123
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Got questions about PMS? I'm here to help! In this Q&A, we’re going over the most common (and some not-so-common) questions from our viewers about premenstrual syndrome during this series. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content like this! Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief medical officer, Protea has grown and evolved into a dynamic medical center serving the Valley and...
Jan 16, 2025•28 min•Ep. 121
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! This episode brings you Part 3, the treatment segment. Hormonal imbalances might be the key to understanding and managing them effectively. In this video, we explore how hormonal treatments can help alleviate common PMS symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and fatigue. Learn about the types of hormones used, their benefits, and what to expect during treatment. Whether you're considering hormonal therapy or just curious about your options, this gu...
Jan 06, 2025•27 min•Ep. 120
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are you experiencing mood swings, bloating, fatigue, or irritability and wondering if it's PMS — or something more? In this video, I break down the symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and how to identify it accurately. As a hormone replacement specialist, I’ll explain how your hormones fluctuate during your cycle, what causes PMS, and how it can be managed effectively. Next episode we will also explore treatment options, including natural rem...
Dec 29, 2024•34 min•Ep. 119
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, we dive into everything you need to know about PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). An introduction into the a 4 part series. 1. Introduction 2. Diagnosis 3. Treatment 4. Q&A Whether you're experiencing PMS or want to better understand it, this introduction will provide helpful insights and tips. Make sure to come back to see the rest of the series! Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Medical Center in 2002. While he’s been the chief m...
Dec 28, 2024•24 min•Ep. 118
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are testosterone and prostate cancer connected? In this video, we dive into the science and myths surrounding testosterone therapy and its potential impact on prostate health. Learn what research really says about testosterone levels, prostate cancer risks, and what every man should know to make informed health decisions. Don't let misinformation guide your choices—get the facts here. 📌 Key Topics Covered: Does testosterone cause prostate cancer...
Dec 27, 2024•8 min•Ep. 117
Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. Recently i received an email regarding new available TRT here in my local area. In this video, we dive into the goal behind their email and if its worth trusting these large medical establishments. Whether you're considering TRT or just curious about the latest developments, this video provides a comprehensive overview of where the therapy stands now—...
Dec 26, 2024•12 min•Ep. 116
