Can your birth control really shrink your clitoris by 20%? Why do surgeons need to tilt you like a Cirque du Soleil performer during a hysterectomy? And is sleeping on your left side actually better for your heart and digestion?
In this episode, we talk about the latest news surrounding the hormonal birth control pill. In local updates, the Victorian government’s decision to allow pharmacists to prescribe the pill is sparking a massive debate among doctors. Dr Mariam explains the risks of removing clinical oversight, why the pill isn't a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. And in fake news, the viral ‘clit-bait’ headlines claiming hormonal contraception reduces the size of your most pleasurable body part. We look at why these scary claims are often based on flawed science and why they fit into a broader, more dangerous political agenda aimed at eroding reproductive autonomy.
Plus in Med School, Claire shares what she learned from watching a laparoscopic hysterectomy, revealing why internal organs look less like a neat textbook diagram and more like a ‘meat tray’.
And in our Quick Consult, Dr Mariam answers Lorraine’s question about sleep positions. We break down the guidelines for side-sleeping during pregnancy, why heart patients might prefer the right side, and why the best position is ultimately whichever one lets you get some rest.
This episode discusses recent changes to pharmacy access for some contraceptive options in Victoria. These changes form part of evolving state-based healthcare access models and have been the subject of discussion among clinicians, pharmacists and policymakers.
GET IN TOUCH
SUBSCRIPTION GIVEAWAY:Win a $2,000 Bed Threads voucher. Subscribe to Mamamia here before April 30 to be automatically entered. Current subscriber? You're already in the draw. T&Cs apply.
Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon.
Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here, email here or leave us a voice note here.
Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room.
Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok.
Support independent women’s media by becoming a Mamamia subscriber
Read The Vagenda by Dr Jen Gunter
CREDITS
Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam
Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best
Executive Producer: Grace Rouvray
Group Executive Producer: Ilaria Brophy
Audio Producer: Scott Stronach
Video Producer: Julian Rosario
Social Producer: Elly Moore
Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.