The Ovaryacting Podcast

The IUD: Part 1

IUDs are quickly becoming one of the most popular contraceptive options among women. So how do they work? And why are they popular? In this episode Chris and Heather offer some backdrop to the IUD: how does the device function, and what kind of social impact has it had? The history of women's health innovation always delivers on intrepid and terrible tales. From the history to now - how have IUDs been used for women's enactment and infringement of personal autonomy? Last, but not least, we hear from Chris about her own IUD journey this past year. Who knew that saga was in store - we certainly didn't!

The Pill Part 3b: continued- the new science on side effects

In this sPILL-over episode, we wrap-up our discussion on the side effects which are only recently being uncovered and researched. We bet you probably weren't told about all these when prescribed the pill! We discuss the very personal evaluation of pro's and con's when it comes to the pill, and the issue of informed consent when making decisions about your own health. Given how confusing the world of contraceptives can be, we try to offer some practical advice if you're thinking about going on, off or switching between pills. There's no clear-cut answers in this space, and we raise some interesting debate points with valid arguments coming in from all sides. Should the pill be made available over-the-counter? Is female-focussed contraception an unfair burden or essential to women's liberation? Is this the end of Chris and Heather's hours long discussion on this subject? Finally, yes.  But continue the discussion with us at the.ovaryacting.pod@gmail.com,  or via our instagram: @the_ovaryacting_pod

The Pill Part 3a: side effects- the good, the bad and the ones you weren't warned about

In this two sub-part portion of our series on The Pill, Heather discusses her experience with The Pill and the wide variety of side effects not included in the warning leaflet. We discuss some of the new science emerging on side effects, and why so much is still unknown after all these years since the pill's creation. In Part 3(b), we discuss the remaining side effects and wrap up this contraceptive roller-coaster. We hope this answers some of your burning questions or concerns about your personal experiences! And as always, hear anything you think might be relevant to your contraceptive experience? Definitely chat about it to your doctor.

The Pill Part 2: The pill, the state, and the church, oh my

Chris takes us through the legal underpinnings of women's right to access contraception, including The Pill. This includes explanations of seminal cases in the US, and highlights where the law is still lacking. We also look at the influence of the Church in health policy, and how it influences access to contraception. Hope you enjoy! And stay tuned for more from Heather on The Pill and its lesser-known side effects in Episode 3 Part 3.

The Pill Part 1: The History of the Pill

Get yourself a snack, settle in, and get ready for a three part special on The Pill. We're beginning with a brief history of The Pill (and all it's done for women and society), the science that brought it to life, and the social and policy evolutions that made it legal and accessible. Buckle up, Fam--we're going on a ride!