Our mission at Pause Health is to empower individuals to pause, reflect, and prioritize their well-being through personalized support that blends the science and art of health and wellness.
At Pause Health, we provide expert, personalized support to help you feel and function your best. Led by a nurse practitioner with advanced training in hormone therapy and sexual health, our approach is designed to help you take an active role in your health through thoughtful, individualized care.
We support individuals navigating hormonal and sexual health changes, including experiences related to perimenopause, menopause, menstrual health, PCOS, as well as concerns such as low libido and erectile difficulties, and symptoms that may be associated with changes in hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Our philosophy focuses on optimizing the pillars of wellness—movement, sleep, nutrition, mental wellness, hormones, and sexual health—ensuring all aspects of your well-being are supported.
Whether you’re navigating life transitions or looking to optimize your health, we offer the guidance, education, and personalized planning to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. 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 recognized that many people navigating hormone-related and sexual health concerns were looking for more time, deeper conversations, and a more personalized approach to their care.
That experience led me to pursue advanced training through WorldLink Medical in Salt Lake City, along with ongoing education in hormone and sexual health.
I founded Pause Health to offer a different kind of experience—one that prioritizes education, individualized support, and a more in-depth approach to your health and well-being. 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 personalized plan that is 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 health and well-being.
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Compassion
We know that feeling truly seen and heard can be just as important as anything else. 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 alongside you.
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Holistic Wellness
You are more than a set of symptoms. We take a whole-person approach—looking at the full picture of your well-being. By supporting key pillars like movement, sleep, nutrition, mental wellness, hormones, and sexual health, 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 and supporting you with care that reflects the highest ethical standards.
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Innovation
We believe great care is both science and art. We stay up to date with the latest evidence in hormone and sexual health, while also applying clinical experience and a personalized lens to every recommendation—so your care feels both informed and tailored to you.
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Collaboration.
We believe the best outcomes come through partnership. Whether working directly with you or supporting coordination within your broader healthcare journey, we prioritize open communication and shared decision-making—so your plan remains personalized and aligned with your goals.
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Inclusivity
Everyone deserves respectful, affirming support. 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.