It's Not Hysteria: Everything You Need to Know About Women's Health
Sep 30, 2024
auto_awesome
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Karen Tang, a board-certified gynecologist and advocate for reproductive health, sheds light on the often-dismissed issues like endometriosis and PMDD. She reveals the shocking delays in diagnosis and emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding women’s health concerns. The conversation dives into the cultural barriers that lead to neglect, the need for proactive health management, and the critical role of research in improving women's healthcare experiences. It's a call to action for better understanding and advocacy.
The podcast highlights the significant stigma surrounding women's health issues like endometriosis and PCOS, leading to misdiagnoses and prolonged suffering.
Social media is leveraged by healthcare professionals to educate and empower women about reproductive health issues, fostering community and awareness.
There is an urgent need for increased research funding for women's health conditions, as current investments remain disproportionately low compared to other medical fields.
Deep dives
The Importance of Evidence-Based Supplements
The podcast emphasizes the necessity of utilizing evidence-based supplements to support health, particularly when dietary needs aren't fully met. A specific focus is placed on vitamin D, for which the speaker has created formulations like a children's vitamin D drop and an adult spray that exclude unnecessary additives. This highlights an overarching principle that while supplements can be beneficial, they should not replace dietary sources of nutrition. The message reinforces that individuals should prioritize getting nutrients from whole foods whenever possible, yet recognizes that sometimes supplementation is essential.
Addressing Women’s Health Stigma
The discussion brings to light the widespread stigma surrounding women's health, particularly when it comes to conditions such as endometriosis and PCOS. Many women report struggling to receive proper diagnoses, often feeling their concerns dismissed by healthcare providers, thus causing unnecessary suffering. The speaker discusses how societal norms contribute to this stigma, leading many to suffer in silence due to embarrassment. It is emphasized that open conversations and increased awareness are crucial for empowering women to seek the care they deserve.
The Role of Social Media in Health Education
The podcast highlights how social media serves as a powerful platform for health education regarding reproductive health issues that are frequently misunderstood. The guest, a gynecologist, successfully uses platforms like TikTok and Instagram to reach and inform millions about topics such as pelvic pain and menstrual health. This engagement helps demystify topics that many find uncomfortable to discuss, fostering a sense of community among those experiencing similar issues. By leveraging social media, medical professionals can help bridge the gap in knowledge and awareness, ultimately prompting individuals to seek care.
The Need for Increased Research Funding
The need for more research focused on women's health is underscored, particularly concerning conditions like endometriosis and fibroids, which affect a significant portion of the female population. Despite the prevalence and debilitating effects of these issues, funding for women's health research remains disproportionate compared to other medical fields. This lack of investment results in a dearth of treatment options and diagnostic tools, highlighting a systemic issue within healthcare. The podcast stresses that enhancing research efforts could lead to improved outcomes and resources for women suffering from these common conditions.
The Complexity of Menopause Management
The conversation delves into menopause, addressing the importance of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its often misunderstood risks and benefits. The speaker illustrates how historical studies may have exaggerated the dangers of HRT, particularly affecting perceptions of younger women. By clarifying that many of the risks are associated with aging rather than HRT itself, a more nuanced perspective is offered. This highlights the need for continued public education on menopause to dispel myths and encourage women to seek appropriate treatment that enhances their quality of life.
Did you know that women's health concerns like endometriosis and PMDD are often dismissed by healthcare professionals? Shockingly, it can take up to 8 years to get an endometriosis diagnosis in the UK—longer than in the US! In our latest Food for Thought episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Karen Tang (@karentangmd), a leading gynaecologist and reproductive health advocate. We dive deep into the barriers women face in getting proper care and how to break the stigma surrounding reproductive health. Remember, if you’re struggling with menstrual symptoms, it’s not something you should endure alone. Book a consultation at our Rhitrition Clinic to speak to a specialist today.