Released On 22 October 2024
Meet the Expert: Dr Zoe Schaedel
In our latest Expert interview, we meet Dr Schaedel who is a GP, accredited British Menopause Society Menopause Specialist co-director of Myla Health and the clinical lead of Brighton and Hove Community NHS Menopause Clinic.
WLC: Dr Schaedel, please tell us what drew you to specialise in the menopause?
ZS: Since medical school I have had a deep interest in women’s health. Over the past 17 years as a GP, I’ve had the privilege of caring for women through all stages of life, but I became particularly passionate about menopause. What drew me in was how menopause uniquely intertwines women’s physiology with their psychology and is also influenced by factors like family life, work, and broader social contexts. This complexity fascinates me. Menopause can impact so many aspects of a woman's life, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position to support women through this transition. Helping them navigate this stage and make a meaningful difference in their lives is profoundly rewarding.
WLC: What broad questions and concerns do you hear most frequently from your patients?
ZS: Many of my patients come to me feeling like they’ve lost touch with who they are. Some are completely exhausted, while others are putting in significant effort to look after themselves but still struggle to feel better. A common theme is confusion—whether it’s due to mixed messages from the media, advice from friends, or uncertainty about which treatment options are right for them. By the time they see me, many women are already on some form of treatment but don’t fully understand it, what to expect, or if it’s truly optimised for their needs. My role is to provide clarity, answer their questions, and guide them toward solutions that are personalised and effective.
WLC: How do you look after your own wellbeing?
ZS: Spending time with family and being outdoors are essential for me to recharge. I love walking my dogs, as I can connect with nature and practice mindfulness at the same time. I prioritise good sleep and I make sure to practice what I preach when it comes to healthy sleep habits. Pilates is another important part of my routine; I try to incorporate it daily, as it helps keep me physically (and mentally) strong.
WLC: Please tell us something surprising about you?
ZS: I’m a big football fan. I love following the sport and often unwind by listening to football podcasts. I do quite a bit of driving for work and it might be surprising that I tend to do long drives in complete silence—I find it a good way to clear my mind in order to reflect and process, and it helps me to focus on the road!