The flaws in doing your own health research.

I love watching someone so good at their craft. Whether it’s an artist, or a great lawyer, watching someone in their element always leaves me feeling in awe of their dedication, experience and tenacity to get great at something. 

 

Nobody feels that way about their doctor. 

 

In today’s episode, I want to address the trend of “doing your own research” for your medical care. The general distrust in medicine and the lack of appreciation about what goes into making a medical decision (combined with the internet) has left people feeling like they are actually more capable than their doctor at reading research. It’s left people feeling like there are un-read articles that only they can find (and their doctor won’t) and even that their doctor wants to choose something for them that is not the best answer (on purpose). 

 

Reading research, synthesizing difficult concepts, communicating those concepts and helping people make value based and pragmatic decisions about their health care is my absolute super power. But put it in the ring with blogs, podcasts, DIY health programs and people’s overestimation in their own research capabilities and I’m left going toe to toe with an accountant over their hormone dose, or a teacher over their nutrition needs. 

 

This episode isn’t about discouraging you from being interested in your health - quite the opposite. But being informed and interested is not the same as being a good researcher. I share my top strategies for “doing your own research” if you want to try, and when to trust the information that’s being offered to you by your health care team. 

For the first time, I’ve created a DIY program for patients with endometriosis that helps you “do your own research” with guided videos, handouts and the real evidence on how to lower your pain. If you’re a person with endometriosis or menstrual cramps, you can download the Women’s Health Unplugged app and purchase this program at a low cost.