Explore the evolution of childbirth practices and how they've shifted from midwife-led to hospital deliveries over the last century. Dive deep into the often-overlooked challenges of the fourth trimester, including postpartum depression and the emotional complexities of new motherhood. Tune in for personal stories that reveal the joy and difficulty surrounding childbirth, along with the impact of societal attitudes on maternal health. Discover the disparities in postpartum care and hear a call for more personalized support in maternal health.

The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of childbirth, highlighting the rise of cesarean sections and their historical transformation. Personal stories illuminate the emotional rollercoaster of labor experiences and the unexpected paths some pregnancies take. The hosts reflect on the complexities of labor, the importance of community support, and the implications of medical choices. They also explore the intricate physiology of childbirth and the emotional impact of pregnancy loss, fostering an understanding of diverse narratives within maternal care.

Explore the wonders of the placenta, a vital organ that nurtures the bond between mother and fetus. Discover the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, from increased urination to hormonal shifts. Hear personal stories of resilience in the face of pregnancy complications. Learn about the evolution of reproductive strategies and the debates surrounding placental invasiveness. This enlightening discussion blends humor with serious insights, offering a deeper appreciation of the complexities of pregnancy.

This engaging discussion kicks off a four-part series on pregnancy, beginning with a fascinating historical look at pregnancy tests. Learn how these tests evolved from ancient methods to today's home kits and their societal impact. Personal stories highlight the emotional complexities of early pregnancy, including challenges and triumphs. The biology of implantation and potential complications like ectopic pregnancies are explored, alongside the importance of understanding reproductive health. Expect heartfelt narratives and valuable insights into the pregnancy journey.

For much of history, female reproductive anatomy has been studied only in the context of or in comparison to male reproductive anatomy. This shows in clinical trial design, in healthcare disparities, in the research questions we ask (or fail to ask), it’s even apparent in our language - the word “vagina” means “sheath”, as if vaginas only exist to sheathe penises. Only recently have researchers begun to close this gap in our knowledge when it comes to half the humans on this planet. In Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage, award-winning journalist and author Rachel Gross takes readers through the origins of this information gap, examining how preconceived notions about sex and gender underlie the bias that still exists today. She then delves into the fascinating research that seeks to confront this bias and address the vast health inequities that limit care for so many. Tune in for a truly enlightening odyssey through the only recently charted world of female anatomy. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/3WwtIAuSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the wild journey of Viagra, from a heart medication to a blockbuster drug that changed how we view sexual health. Discover the intriguing physiological details behind erectile dysfunction and the surprising effects of aging on men's sexual health. Laugh along with humorous anecdotes and cocktail inspiration as the hosts explore societal shifts in attitudes towards these treatments. Plus, hear about the disparities in research for female sexual dysfunction, making it clear that sexual health issues affect everyone.

Discover the chilling tale of the death cap mushroom, a seemingly innocent fungus hiding one of the deadliest toxins known to humans. Hear about its devastating effects, including tragic stories of poisoning and the historical incidents linked to its lethal nature. The discussion dives into the biology of amatoxins, the importance of proper mushroom identification, and the dire consequences of misidentification. With a blend of cautionary tales and historical intrigue, this episode reveals why knowledge is essential in the world of foraging.

Imagine a tongue replaced by a tiny isopod! This bizarre parasite, while horrifying to think about, serves a unique ecological role in fish species. The podcast blends humor with science, exploring the life cycle and feeding behaviors of these quirky organisms. It dives into their impact on ecosystems and argues for a greater appreciation of parasites in conservation discussions. Through charming anecdotes and insightful reflections, listeners learn why keeping these creatures in our biodiversity is essential, even if they are a bit unsettling!

Dive into the terrifying world of Rift Valley Fever, a mosquito-borne virus that wreaks havoc on both livestock and humans. Hear a pathologist’s gripping recovery story, showcasing the virus's severity. Discover its historical ties to colonialism and the socio-economic ripple effects of disease outbreaks. Unravel the complexities of climate modeling in predicting future outbreaks. Learn about the urgent need for effective vaccines and the potential risks posed by environmental changes. This exploration emphasizes the intricate balance between humans, animals, and our changing planet.

In this lively session, Ian Dunican, Director of Melius Consulting and sleep expert, teams up with John Iliff, an emergency physician with firsthand experience of fatigue, to delve into the nuances of circadian rhythms. They discuss how these biological clocks influence our health and performance, particularly in high-stress jobs. The conversation highlights alarming consequences of disrupted rhythms, share practical strategies to manage fatigue, and reflect on the historical impacts of shift work. They also dissect some trendy sleep hacks and the mysteries of sleep science.