Heather Florio joins to discuss the potential role of supplements in pelvic and sexual health.
In this episode of Pearls & Perspectives, host Amy Pearlman, MD, sits down with Heather Florio, CEO of Desert Harvest, to discuss the role of supplements in pelvic health and the importance of evaluating the evidence behind products marketed to patients.
The conversation begins with a broader discussion of the supplement industry, where Florio describes her company’s emphasis on research and clinical studies while Pearlman raises an important consideration: much of the evidence supporting supplements may be funded by the companies producing them. The pair discuss the costs and challenges of conducting clinical research on supplements, as well as differences in regulatory pathways for natural products in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Pearlman and Floria also explore the term “bioidentical,” including its use in the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) space, what the term means when applied to ingredients such as lactoferrin, and how “bioidentical” may be confusing for patients and clinicians. Florio discusses Desert Harvest’s lactoferrin and describes ongoing research examining its potential applications. The conversation then turns to the ingredients found in supplements, including capsule materials, fillers, dyes, and other additives.
The discussion also addresses sexual health and vaginal wellness, including the often-overlooked role of sexual function in the care of patients with pelvic health conditions and cancer. Florio discusses the importance of considering factors beyond pH when evaluating vaginal lubricants, including osmolality and its potential effects on the vaginal epithelial barrier. The episode highlights the broader need to address patients’ sexual health and quality-of-life concerns alongside their primary medical conditions. Throughout the conversation, Pearlman and Floria return to the importance of science and patient education when navigating the growing landscape of supplements and over-the-counter products.
