Episode
A Healthy Power Portal: Taking Control of Your Vaginal Health with herbalist Kathie Bishop
- Podcast
- Herbcast
- Published
- Nov 27, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 2473
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Summary
In this episode of Herbcast, Marion Mackonochie talks with medical herbalist Kathie Bishop about vaginal health, why it’s so often overlooked, how the vaginal microbiome really works, and the herbal and holistic strategies that can make a difference. Kathie shares her personal story of recurrent thrush from childhood into her 30s, what finally helped, and why every person’s microbiome and needs are unique. In this episode: The vaginal microbiome 101 - lactobacilli, glycogen, and the powerful role of oestrogen across the cycle and life stages. Thrush vs. bacterial vaginitis (and aerobic vaginitis), why thrush often flares around ovulation/post-ovulation, why BV is more common post-menopause, and practical symptom clues (itch, discharge, odour) to tell them apart. Testing without the anxiety - when microbiome tests help (and when they don’t), plus why symptom-led care with a practitioner can be enough. Herbal care & applications Everyday choices that matter - hygiene (only water internally), breathable underwear (cotton/bamboo), managing heat and moisture, toilet paper swaps (bamboo to avoid dusty pulp irritation), and exploring personal diet triggers (e.g., sugar, alcohol, wheat) and iron status. About Kathie Kathie Bishop is a Medical Herbalist specialising in vaginal health and author of It’s Your Power Portal: Take Control of Your Vaginal Health with Herbal and Holistic Care (2022). She received the Innovation in Practice Award from the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (2021) and was a finalist in the Great British Workplace Wellbeing Awards for her contributions to women’s health. Kathie also founded Into the Wild, an award-winning natural, organic, vegan intimate lubricant brand, and continues to support women in clinical practice. Follow & Connect…