Our mission at Pause Health is to empower individuals to pause, reflect, and prioritize their well-being through personalized, evidence-based care.
At Pause Health, we provide expert, personalized care to help you feel and function your best. Led by a nurse practitioner with advanced training in hormone therapy and sexual health, our mission is to help you take control of your health through a comprehensive approach that addresses your unique needs. We specialize in treating conditions such as perimenopause, menopause, PCOS, menstrual irregularities, low libido, erectile dysfunction, and other hormone and sexual health-related concerns. Our philosophy focuses on optimizing the pillars of wellness: movement, sleep, nutrition, mental wellness, hormones and sexual health, ensuring that all aspects of your well-being are supported. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, or wanting to optimize your health, we offer the expertise and support to help you thrive. At Pause Health, we’re here to empower you to feel your best and achieve what is optimal for your health—because normal isn’t optimal!
About Us
Meet the Founder
Shelby Sheppard MNNP
Hi, I’m Shelby—a nurse practitioner with a passion for hormone and sexual health, and a commitment to care that meets you exactly where you are.
My journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor of Nursing from Memorial University of Newfoundland in 2015. I started my career as a labour and delivery nurse at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s before moving to Calgary in 2018 to continue that work at Rockyview General Hospital.
In 2021, I completed my Master of Nursing – Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) at the University of Saskatchewan. As I transitioned into practice, I quickly saw the gaps in care for people dealing with hormone-related and sexual health concerns. So many were feeling dismissed, unheard, or even “medically gaslit”—a term that, unfortunately, rings true for many navigating these challenges.
That experience lit a fire in me. I sought out advanced training through WorldLink Medical in Salt Lake City, as well as ongoing education in hormone and sexual health.
I founded Pause Health to do things differently—to create a space where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to take control of their health. My goal is simple: to help you feel and function your best, every step of the way.
Our Values
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Patient-Centered Care.
We believe in creating a true partnership with you—one built on mutual respect and collaboration. You are the expert in your body, and your lived experience matters. We take the time to listen, understand your goals, and work alongside you to create a care plan that’s personalized, meaningful, and aligned with what matters most to you.
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Empowerment
We believe knowledge is power—and you deserve to feel confident and in control of your health. Our role is to support and guide you, not to dictate. We’re here to provide the information, tools, and encouragement you need to make informed decisions and take an active role in your care. Your voice matters, and we’re with you every step of the way.
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Compassion
We know that feeling truly seen and heard can be just as important as the care itself. That’s why we create a safe, welcoming space where you feel supported every step of the way. With empathy, respect, and genuine connection at the heart of what we do, we’re here to walk this journey with you.
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Holistic Wellness
You are more than a set of symptoms. We take a whole-person approach to care—looking at the full picture of your well-being. By addressing key pillars like movement, sleep, nutrition, mental health, hormones, and sexual wellness, we help you build a strong foundation for long-term, sustainable health.
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Integrity
Trust is earned—and we don’t take that lightly. You can count on us to lead with honesty, professionalism, and transparency in every interaction. We’re committed to doing what’s right, always acting in your best interest with the highest ethical standards.
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Innovation
You deserve care that evolves with the science. We stay on the leading edge of hormone and sexual health advancements so you can feel confident that your treatment is grounded in the latest evidence, delivered with skill, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence.
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Collaboration.
We believe the best care happens through partnership. Whether working directly with you or as part of your broader healthcare team, we prioritize open communication and shared decision-making—so your care is always personalized, connected, and aligned with your goals.
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Inclusivity
Everyone deserves respectful, affirming care. We’re committed to creating an environment where all identities, bodies, and backgrounds are welcomed and valued. We honor your lived experience and provide care that reflects your unique needs—without assumptions or judgment.