Dr. Jen Gunter, an OBGYN and host of Body Stuff, discusses her impactful work on menopause, highlighting why this life stage is an evolutionary marvel. She dismantles societal myths surrounding menopause, advocating for open conversations to embrace its significance. Gunter shares insights on managing symptoms like hot flashes and defends hormone therapy as a personalized care option. She emphasizes viewing menopause as a triumphant phase, advocating for the wisdom of older women and celebrating their contributions to future generations.
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insights INSIGHT
Menopause Taboo
Menopause is often treated as taboo due to societal ageism, particularly against women.
This ageism stems from outdated views of women's worth being tied solely to reproduction.
insights INSIGHT
Menopause Misconception
A common misconception is that women didn't live to experience menopause.
This misconception erases the contributions of older women throughout history.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Early Hormone Research
Early hormone research involved extracting hormones from animal ovaries, highlighting the historical evolution of hormone therapy.
Jen Gunter expresses surprise at this historical practice in the podcast.
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Charles Pierre Louis De Gardanne was a French physician who studied menopause and coined the term in the 1820s. His work focused on 'The Critical Age of Women', though specific details about a book with this exact title are not available. De Gardanne's contributions to the understanding of menopause were significant, but his writings also led to negative societal attitudes and dangerous medical practices.
The Menopause Manifesto
Jen Gunter
The Menopause Manifesto is a book that combines medical guidance with a feminist manifesto. Dr. Jen Gunter counters widespread misinformation and myths about menopause with hard facts, real science, and expert advice. The book covers various aspects of menopause, including perimenopause, hot flashes, sleep disruption, sex and libido, depression, skin and hair issues, and more. It aims to empower women by educating them on what to expect during the menopause transition and beyond, challenging the culture of shame and misogyny surrounding women's bodies[1][3][4].
There are only two mammals who have evolved to survive after their childbearing years: toothed whales and humans. This stage of life is called menopause, and it makes humans an evolutionary wonder! Dr. Jen Gunter, host of the podcast Body Stuff, talks to Elise about her book "The Menopause Manifesto." Afterwards, listen to an excerpt from Dr. Jen's podcast, where she reviews the history of this process many of us will go through, shares tips on managing hot flashes and talks about why menopause shouldn't be viewed as the end of the race -- but rather as a victory lap. This episode is part of the TED Talks Daily summer book club, a series featuring talks, interviews and podcast episodes to inspire your next great read.
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