57: America is Failing Women's Health

Confessions of a Male Gynecologist

Culture, politics, medical practices, and scientific understandings of the female body all influence our knowledge of women's health.

In today’s episode, I’m doing something different and talking about how the medical field is failing women in the United States. The reality of women’s health in this country leaves much to be desired, from exclusion from biomedical research to gaslighting by providers and everything in between.

It’s a controversial topic, and we need to increase awareness because definite improvements need to be made. I’m discussing the social factors that influence the state of women’s health, the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation and menopause, the far-reaching impact of racism on health outcomes, and more. This is my plea for us to do more to promote women’s health. Enjoy the episode.

Highlights

The historical exclusion and marginalization of women and the impact it’s had on women’s health

Denial of bodily autonomy and the experience of Henrietta Lacks

The lack of biomedical research on women and ongoing challenges in collecting research data

Why the Office of Research on Women's Health was established

The current state of women’s health in the US

Differences in women's health outcomes

Limited medical attention given to menstruation and menopause despite the social significance

Racial disparities and leading causes of maternal mortality

Cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine

Poor treatment of women with pelvic pain and the misdiagnosis of endometriosis

The high rates of violence against women in the US

Opportunities to improve women’s experiences in the medical system and health outcomes

The need to promote equity in women’s health and research

Mentioned in this episode

Rebecca Skloot’s Book | The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks https://www.amazon.com/Immortal-Life-Henrietta-Lacks/dp/1400052181

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Resources

Dr. Tassone's Practice https://www.drshawntassone.com/

The Hormone Balance Bible https://tassonemd.com/hormone-balance-bible/

Hormone Archetype Quiz https://tassonemd.lpages.co/hormonearchetypequiz/

Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.