World-leading perinatal scientist, Professor Michele Okun, joins Unleash Health’s Scientific Council

Unleash Health proudly announces the appointment of Professor Michele Okun, an internationally respected expert in maternal sleep science and women’s health, to its esteemed Scientific Council. Professor Okun brings decades of pioneering research into the biobehavioral rhythms of pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, advancing how sleep, stress, and immune signaling shape maternal and fetal health.

As Professor of Research at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Director of the Sleep and Biobehavioral Health Research Laboratory, Professor Okun is one of the world’s foremost authorities on sleep during the perinatal period. Her research investigates how sleep disturbances, especially insomnia, alter neuroendocrine and immune function, increase the risk of postpartum depression, and affect long-term maternal wellbeing. Her work is funded by the NIH and DoD and has helped define a new field at the intersection of women’s health, psychoneuroimmunology, and behavioral medicine.

On joining Unleash Health, Professor Okun shared: “I’m honored to join the Scientific Council at Unleash Health, a platform that understands that prevention must start before illness begins—especially in women’s health. My mission has always been to help women navigate the biological and emotional transitions of motherhood with greater knowledge, confidence, and compassion. I’m thrilled to bring my research to life in ways that support women everywhere.”

Dr. Ramin Rafiei, Founder and CEO of Unleash Health, added:

“Professor Okun is a global pioneer in perinatal and postmenopausal sleep science. Her work embodies what Unleash Health stands for, translating deep science into empowering, human-centered experiences. Michele will help us bring new depth to women’s health on our platform, and we are thrilled to welcome her to our Scientific Council.”

Professor Okun’s appointment marks a powerful milestone in Unleash Health’s drive to elevate women’s health as a core pillar of the platform, in partnership with iconic brands across maternal care, supplements, skincare, and more, to support women at every life stage.