MDA Women in Dentistry - Thriving Through Change: Women's Health, Hormones, and Life in Dentistry

Speaker: Kirsten A. Phillips, MD

Course Description:
Women's health needs evolve throughout life, yet many women are left wondering whether changes in energy, mood, stress tolerance, sleep, concentration, weight, fertility, or overall well-being are simply part of a busy life or signs that something deserves more attention.

In this engaging and practical discussion, Board-certified OB/GYN Kirsten Phillips, MD, will explore how hormones influence health and performance across different life stages, from family-building years through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of common symptoms and changes women experience, current approaches to managing them, including the benefits and risks of hormone therapy, and strategies for knowing when to seek professional guidance.

This session will connect the science of women's health with the realities of modern professional life, helping participants better navigate the competing demands of career, family, leadership, and personal well-being. Ample time will be reserved for audience questions and discussion.

Be sure to stay on the meeting for follow-up conversation and connection with your fellow women in dentistry colleagues!

Learning Objectives:
Through participation in this course, attendees will:

• Explain the physiologic hormonal changes that occur during key stages of a woman’s life, including reproductive years, perimenopause, and menopause.
• Identify common signs and symptoms associated with hormonal transitions and distinguish between expected changes and symptoms warranting medical evaluation.
• Evaluate evidence-based management options for hormonal symptoms, including hormone therapy, non-hormonal treatment approaches, and lifestyle interventions.
• Discuss the impact of women's health and hormonal changes on cognitive performance, stress management, and professional functioning.

CE Credit:
This course offers 1.5 credits under AGD Code 770 (Self-Improvement)

Event Sponsor:
This course is generously sponsored by the MDA Health Plan. To learn more about specific women's health benefits offered by the MDA Health Plan exclusively for Michigan Dental Association members, click here.