Join medical students Charlotte Thill (she/her) and Alesha Kotian (she/her) as they navigate what it means to be a woman in the medical field and in their own lives. Each episode focuses on topics in medical history, current events, various health professions, female healthcare pioneers, and more! By analyzing different areas of healthcare and history through a feminist lens, From Skirts To Scrubs hopes to create a space to explore what it means to be a woman in medicine while having some fun along the way!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/28/3/d26074f0-66fb-48b7-ae57-3e713934d4b5_ep_30_final__-_9_26_21__11.59_pm.mp3

Hyper-promiscuity, mood swings, nausea, anxiety, drowsiness, loss of appetite, aging, back pain. Those are some symptoms of hysteria to name a few. Hysteria is a word that is thrown around a lot from “Oh that was a hysterical joke” to  “that woman is hysterical don&#39;t listen to her” and even “the new album is causing mass hysteria.” But what even is hysteria? Well, in history it has meant a lot of things to many different people. Throughout time as the definition changed and each time it meant something new, hysteria’s power over women grew too. Now as we contemplate what hysteria even is, it feels like it has everything to do with women’s health and nothing at all. Join us in this episode to discuss the many different sides of hysteria throughout history as we try to answer the one simple questions: what is hysteria? Feminist Corner Questions: <ul><li>The definition of a single word changed the course of women&#39;s health throughout history, what does this say about the language we use today to describe patients, people, diseases, etc. </li><li>What was your favorite part/thing you learned in/of season 2!?</li></ul>

Ep. 30 Hysteria, (n.): Uterus (from Greek Hysterikos)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/9/14/2/5e391c61-e416-402a-a255-c424e8d7501b_ep_29.m4a

Tying tubes, hysterectomies, withholding medical care without proof of contraception use...these are just a few ways that forced sterilization has occurred in the United States. The history of forced sterilization is sewn into the fabric of US history, and has played an insidious role in this country. This episode, we learn about the eugenics movement, its impact on communities of color and how these issues continue to manifest today. Then join us in our Feminist Corner as we discuss forced sterilization in the context of abortion bans and how healthcare providers play a key role in protecting patients from experiencing this blatant violation of human and reproductive rights. ﻿Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>What roles do healthcare providers have when it comes to contraception options and the ethics around them? </li><li>The decision in Texas around their recent refusal by the Supreme Court to block the state’s ban on most abortions is devastating for reproductive rights, how can this abortion ban and forced sterilization even exist together and what factors contribute to them (similarities and difference)? What have we failed to take away from history to allow them to be practiced? </li></ul>

Ep. 29 Undesirable: The History of Forced Sterilization in the US

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/8/30/23/43fc144c-b31c-4e02-8fce-c53c7f7250c2_ep_28_final__-_8_30_21__6.35_pm.mp3

It’s the 1800s and the realm of medicine hasn’t quite adjusted to modern thought quite yet. Physicians still believe that dirty air is what is causing that rash on your arm and that when you menstruate, your brain is too exhausted and confused to hold a job. That is at least until Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi comes along. Dr. Putnam Jacobi would work most of her life advocating for biochemically based medicine and evidence-driven theories about women. Not only that, but she also worked to ensure women receive the same medical education as men and children have their own place within a hospital. Join us this week to talk about the amazing life of Dr. Putnam Jacobi and learn about how her bravery to stand up and fight for the things she cared about continues to have a positive impact on us all today.  Feminist Corner Questions: <ul><li>Mary argued that women could work while menstruating and that the pain/discomfort of periods should not stop a woman from working. But what about the women who do experience a high level of pain and discomfort? How should women in modern society face work, sick leave, etc when menstruation gets in the way of their day?</li></ul>

Ep. 28 Cells & Periods: The Adventures of Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/8/16/20/30c29a57-664c-4202-aaa4-681f11e40065_ep_27.m4a

A little poke of a needle and a moment of pain in the name of what? Beauty? Wealth? Tradition? Maybe all of the above? The history of body piercings is a long one, dating back millennia and spanning many civilizations. In this week’s episode, we dive into why Egyptian pharaohs would execute anyone with a belly button ring and how in Ancient Mesoamerica, shamans would pierce their tongues as blood sacrifice. Beyond the ancient histories of piercings, this form of body modification is now also a part of modern life--in some ways as a very accepted practice and in others, not so much. Join us as we talk about all things piercings and the ways that gender plays a role in our understanding of this age-old practice!  Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>When you think about body piercings, what do you associate them with? What comes to mind? </li><li>Why do people get piercings? What piercings are “acceptable” and why? </li></ul>

Ep. 27  From Tradition to Rebellion: The History of Body Piercings

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/8/3/3/236af803-a89e-42d1-b1bd-f4b17cc2a891_26_edit_-_8_2_21__10.59_pm.mp3

In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, killing 1 in 5. But how did we get here? Cardiology and heart disease is an extremely well-studied field, yet it still feels like women are being left behind as they die at alarming rates. Join us in this episode to talk about the history of heart disease, why there is a gaping hole in women’s heart research, and the state of women’s heart health today. We will also discuss how to take steps in your own health in working towards preventing cardiovascular disease, as well as how to advocate for yourself at the doctor. The statistics on women’s heart health are shocking, and even a little scary, so we are here to provide some more information and the who, what, why, and how behind these numbers!Check out our feminist corner questions!<ul><li>Challenge question: What are some goals we all can set in our lives to start down a path for good CVD health? </li></ul>

Ep. 26 The Not So Atypical Patient: Women's Heart Health

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/7/20/13/4c5195c3-1092-4601-8c3f-de0f5e072519_ep_25.m4a

Would you consider yourself a fiery person? Grounded? Dynamic? Maybe a combination of the three? If you looked at your health from the perspective of Ayurvedic medicine, it would probably be some combination of the three with one aspect being dominant. And this combination would be unique to you! But it would also have an impact on the way you receive medical care. Join us this week as we discuss the practice of Ayurveda, a form of medicine that originates in the Indian subcontinent and is still practiced today. Learn about its history, principles and of course, the way it impacts women. It’ll be a journey you won’t want to miss! Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>Which dosha do you think you would be dominant in?</li><li>How does ayurveda differ from other homeopathic practices and how is it similar? </li><li>How does ayurvedic medicine and the ways it was used to understand women differ from how maybe American or Western medicine understands the biologically female body?</li></ul>

Ep. 25 Women and Ayurvedic Medicine: The Lap that Cradles Civilization

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/7/6/3/b7b6ea66-b4e4-40a5-a7f4-8ce1530e5169_ep_24_.mp3

In a time when most anatomy theories were based on animals, not humans, it&#39;s not surprising that ancient physicians may have gotten a fact or two wrong. But it is truly impressive how a single theory can incorrectly span the entire female anatomy. Gotta respect the hustle I guess. In this episode we are talking about ancient theories of female anatomy from general anatomy, to the breasts, to the uterus, to a mystery vein, and more! We will discuss a number of theories involving female anatomy and ancient medicine, as well as debunk said theories. Then we will talk about how these theories have created an inherent bias in the anatomy curriculum today that can affect future provider practices and patient care. Join us in this episode to have some fun and laughs while learning these ancient theories, then stay along to discuss how to positively approach female anatomy today! Feminist Corner Questions!-- Thoughts/if you had to pick one theory, which one would be your favorite?-- What was your experience learning female anatomy in medical school? Can you describe it for us and how it applies to the story we just heard?-- Do you see in medicine today any theories that perpetuate ideas that women are inherently ‘lesser’ than men?

Ep. 24 The "Classical" Woman: Ancient Theories of Female Anatomy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/6/22/11/0bb36130-8cde-43ab-9c4a-d128a539caaf_ep_23.m4a

The issue of trans women in sports is absolutely not a new one, but has recently been in the headlines of many news stories over the last couple of years. This week, we dive into the history of trans girls in sports, looking at the background of gender divisions in sports, how gender binaries have played into the dynamics that we see today and big changes that have occurred over the years that have led us to this point. We then get into the present, talking about salient news stories and events that have brought the topic of trans girls in sports back to the forefront of discussion. Join us this week to get a historical perspective on the topic and gain information to hopefully have a discussion with someone else about it!  ALSO, for Pride month we have a CALL TO ACTION. Support the Equality Act to ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in all 50 states. Here are some ways you can!! <ul><li>Add your name to the Human Rights Campaign’s petition against anti-trans legislation: <a href="https://act.hrc.org/page/75829/petition/1?_ga=2.90768924.788472483.1624303255-1616242685.1623797449&ea.tracking.id=sm_adv_asm_transFeb21" rel="nofollow">https://act.hrc.org/page/75829/petition/1?ea.tracking.id=sm_adv_asm_transFeb21&amp;_ga=2.90768924.788472483.1624303255-1616242685.1623797449</a> </li><li>Send an email to your senator supporting the equality act: <a href="https://act.hrc.org/page/76832/action/1?chain=&ea.tracking.id=ot_adv_AC_EA2021" rel="nofollow">https://act.hrc.org/page/76832/action/1?chain&amp;ea.tracking.id=ot_adv_AC_EA2021</a> </li><li>Sign these petitions: <a href="https://www.change.org/p/support-the-equality-act" rel="nofollow">https://www.change.org/p/support-the-equality-act</a>,  <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-congress-pass-the-equality-act" rel="nofollow">https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-congress-pass-the-equality-act</a>, <a href="https://donate.glaad.org/site/Advocacy?autologin=true&cmd=display&id=147&page=UserAction&s_subsrc=2106VPSMXXXX&utm_campaign=fy21summerofequality&utm_medium=web&utm_source=2106VPSMXXXX" rel="nofollow">https://donate.glaad.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&amp;page=UserAction&amp;id=147&amp;autologin=true&amp;s_subsrc=2106VPSMXXXX&amp;utm_source=2106VPSMXXXX&amp;utm_medium=web&amp;utm_campaign=fy21summerofequality</a> </li><li>Be a community co-sponsor: <a href="https://act.hrc.org/page/76326/data/1?chain=&ea.tracking.id=or_gnr_hrc_EqActCtr" rel="nofollow">https://act.hrc.org/page/76326/data/1?chain&amp;ea.tracking.id=or_gnr_hrc_EqActCtr</a> </li><li>Donate: <a href="https://give.thetrevorproject.org/give/330001/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=pride2021&c_src2=headerDonate" rel="nofollow">https://give.thetrevorproject.org/give/330001/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=pride2021&amp;c_src2=headerDonate</a>,<a href="https://www.transjusticefundingproject.org/donate-now/" rel="nofollow"> </a><a href="https://www.transjusticefundingproject.org/donate-now/" rel="nofollow">https://www.transjusticefundingproject.org/donate-now/</a></li></ul> Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>Women’s sports are already viewed in a certain light. How do you think that has impacted the way that trans girls are viewed in sports? </li><li>There is a hyper focus on trans women in sports and there’s almost no talk about trans men. Why do you think that is? </li></ul>

Ep. 23 Too Tough & Not Enough: Trans Women in Sports

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/6/8/3/75da09ff-c22e-4c83-9266-6ee43e760301_ep_22_final__-_6_7_21__11.06_pm.mp3

When you go to the doctor with a psychiatric concern, you would expect them to hear you out and find the treatment regimen that is right for you. But in 1800s Victorian America, this wasn’t exactly the case. Neurologist Dr. Mitchell created the “Rest Cure” for his patients that required women to lay completely still for almost two straight months. A patient undergoing this treatment wasn’t allowed to move a single muscle, feed themselves, or stand up to use the bathroom. After a while, this treatment slowly starts to look a little like torture even. Join us in this episode to learn the ins and outs of the rest cure, what a patient went through during this treatment, and how it was a reflection of medical thought at the time. After discussing this cure, we speak at length about the idea of a ‘rest cure’ in modern times, and how resting can be either beneficial or dismissive in medicine today.  Check out our Feminist Corner questions below! Time and time again we see patient’s entire health attributed to their uterus and reproductive health, which is interesting because today, so many women use their OB/GYN as their primary care provider. Do you think this idea of reproductive health encompassing all (or part of) a women&#39;s health is still relevant today? Patients who face chronic illness and chronic fatigue today are often told ‘just rest, go home’ as a treatment for their condition, as if their symptoms are not real or they are just overworked. How does this concept today relate to the rest cure? Should we be rethinking how we tell patients to rest?

Ep. 22 The Rest Cure: Prescribed Torture?

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/5/25/3/552c7fac-78af-49f0-97e4-5172f7058fd5_ep_21.m4a

What’s the ideal number of kids you would have, if any? Two? Ten? Well how about adopting thousands of grown men as your “sons”. That’s essentially what Dr. Margaret Chung did and it is one of the many reasons we are sharing her story in this episode. Dr. Chung was the first Asian-American female physician in the United States and she grew up during a time not so different from our present day, where Asians in America were scapegoated and punished simply for existing. Join us as we learn about Margaret, her rise from rancher to plastic surgeon to business owner to “mother” of thousands of American military men in World War II. This is a story you won’t want to miss! Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! ﻿<ul><li>Some say that Margaret Chung was beyond her time, what time period or generation do you think you’d want to live in/were meant to be in?</li><li>How do you feel the model minority myth played into or didn’t play into Margaret’s life story?</li></ul>

Ep. 21 Dr. Margaret Chung: Certified Boss Mom

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/5/11/3/52ef5efd-df48-469d-b431-d0232a11be9b_ep_20_final_pass_-_5_10_21__11.03_pm.mp3

In today’s medical schools, half of the students are female. In surgical residencies, one-fourth of the residents are female. Of those female surgical residents, one-fourth of them will drop out from burnout. Women pursuing surgery today are faced with numerous challenges and obstacles, but yet they persist. And it was no different for the millennia of surgeons before them. From Agnodice fighting for her right to practice in Athens to Loyse Bourgeois becoming one of the best surgeons in the 17th century France to laws all but banning women from the profession, female surgeons have jumped right, left, over, and under obstacles for as long as they have served in the profession. Join us in this episode on women in surgery to learn about some of the influential women in the history of the profession and how they carried on, even when everyone was telling them not to. Then discuss with us the different disparities women face today in the profession and how our very own Alesha feels about potentially joining the specialty one day! Check out our Feminist Corner questions below to spark some thoughts as you listen!<ul><li>Did you notice a trend of what types of surgeons women were throughout history? Why do you think of this? Does this relate to typical female surgeons today? (Hint: There were 2 main types) </li><li>What does this story tell us about mentorship and how does it apply to your journey in medicine (or whatever other profession pertains to you)?</li></ul>

Ep. 20 The Hands of a Woman: Surgery Spotlight

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/4/27/4/ab041ed0-0f96-44c0-8c39-788244e0f8e5_ep_19.m4a

“On the rag” “lady business” “the red wedding.” These are just a few names we call that time of the month when the uterus sheds its lining and starts the cycle anew. Menstruation has long been a topic of mystery, intrigue, confusion, and just generally associated with a negative connotation. We discuss ideas of menstruation through the ages, ranging from Ancient Mayans believing that menstrual blood of the moon goddess became snakes, poisons and disease, to medieval Europeans believing that the blood could cure Leprosy. We also chat about menstrual products and how they have changed (and not really changed) over time. If nothing else, give this episode a lesson to hear some answers from males in our lives and what they know about periods, let’s have a learning moment together! Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>What are current feelings that western society has about periods? Do you know of how other cultures view them?</li><li>In what ways can we de-stigmatize menstruation and what are some impacts you would hope that would have on the health of individuals who get periods? </li></ul>

Ep. 19 On the Rag: Menstruation through the Ages

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/4/12/21/54812762-a974-440e-bc52-63dfaa1c8379_ep_18_finale_.mp3

When a medical system can’t provide needed care for patients who are continuously left out or ignored, what happens? What does a community do when they are aching for help? Well in the case of access to safe abortions, underground abortion networks are created. In this episode, we will be talking about the emergence of illegal but safe abortion networks within the United States over the last 60 years and what gaps they are trying to fill in the healthcare system. Through looking at abortion legislature, specific organizations, and the impact of unsafe abortions on maternal mortality, we hope to spark a conversation on why medicine is failing women and what we can do about it. No matter your abortion views, this episode will give you a new perspective on a complex women’s health issue to take with you into future conversations.  Check out our Feminist Corner questions below to spark some thoughts as you listen!<ul><li>As future physicians, what can we do to make people with uteruses feel more comfortable seeking abortion care and make abortion more accessible?</li><li>What do the emergence of underground abortion networks as alternative female healthcare systems say about the importance and need for female centered spaces in healthcare? </li></ul>

Ep. 18 Underground Abortion Networks: Filling in the Gaps

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/30/3/485b5a92-389f-4cb5-a67b-596515282af3_ep_17.m4a

The number of times we’ve turned to a medication to relieve our pain or cure our sickness is uncountable. We’ve been searching for ways to restore our health for ages, but today, modern drug development involves jumping through many hoops before a drug can come out the other end and be made available for public use. In this episode, we go from beginning to end of the process of discovering, making, testing and distributing a drug made for the market. We talk about research and development, clinical trials and pharmaceutical dispensing of a drug. Along the way, we talk about women, both the ones present and the ones we don’t see enough of, discussing the impact this has on women’s health and the success of a drug!

Ep. 17 A Girl’s Guide to Meds: Women’s Roles in Drug Development

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/19/3/a6d3595d-8002-4a9e-8851-63e84b9be276_ep_16__-_3_18_21__11.44_pm.mp3

In a time with no understanding of the womb, female anatomy, or germs, a complicated childbirth was the last thing you wanted. The options to save yourself or save your baby were slim, and there was rarely an option to save you both. The development of the C-section changed that, well kinda. As medicine evolved over a thousand years, so did this procedure as it developed with the times. However, I wouldn’t call this history a successful story as this procedure had many, MANY, setbacks. But today, one in three children are born via C sections, so something worked eventually! This increased number of procedures isn’t exactly a good thing, however, as C-sections aren’t always the best move for a woman&#39;s body. Trying to find the balance between when to cut or not is a tricky business, which involves multiple factors playing into such decisions. Join us in this episode to learn about the history of C-sections, how the procedure changed midwives&#39; and obstetricians’ roles in childbirth, and why rates have risen over the years!   Check out our Feminist Corner questions below to spark some thoughts as you listen!<ul><li>Obstetricians are often faced with the challenge of whether or not their medical practice will face lawsuits based on how they deliver a child. What do these fears say about our medical system and how it influences care?</li><li>What are your thoughts on the over-medicalization of childbirth and how a woman and their healthcare provider should approach a birth plan? </li></ul>

Ep. 16 C-Sections: One (Un)Successful History

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/3/1/20/7ac085b8-caa5-4f1c-8aa2-2cea7cf41854_ep._15.m4a

As diseases like typhoid, diphtheria and tuberculosis ran rampant through Antebellum America, it was the enslaved Black women that carried out most of the sickcare on plantations in the South. This week, we dive into plantation sickcare and the women that made it possible. From the last rung of the social totem pole in which they diligently worked, to the remarkable care and treatment they provided all of their patients, these women were true doctors of their time yet barely known for it. Learn about their incredible contributions to medicine and the art of healing, and join us for our Feminist Corner discussion about “hood feminism” and its juxtaposition to “white feminism&#34; as we analyze this topic together! Check out our Feminist Corner discussion questions after listening and send us your thoughts! <ul><li>Did you notice any similarities between enslaved women’s doctoring practices and medicine today? </li><li>What are some roles you think white female healthcare providers have now in the health of Black patients and families?</li></ul>

Ep. 15 Doctoring Women: The Healers and Resistors in Plantation Sickcare

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/2/23/4/50568a96-a5c2-4bd3-b038-279a7356add7_bonus_episode--ltr.m4a

Surprise! We are back with another bonus episode for you all! A couple of weeks ago we sat down with Mayo Clinic’s Dr. Stephanie Faubion and Peter &amp; Caleb from Leading the Rounds to talk about Dr. Faubion&#39;s research, work, and roles as a female in medicine. In this episode we discuss menopause and sexual function in aging women. We answer questions like: How are women who experience menopause affected by this life change? Is menopause becoming a dark hole in medicine? What steps do providers take to assess sexual function in women? And more! So join in the conversation this week to hear from an expert in women’s health to learn more about the changes women experience in their health across their lifetime. Also, if you want to listen to the remainder of the conversation where we talk about women as leaders in medicine, check out the other half of the episode on Leading the Rounds!

Bonus Ep. 2 Let's talk Menopause & Sexual Function ft. Stephanie Faubion M.D., M.B.A. & Leading the Rounds

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/2/16/0/170d41e0-abb7-47fb-9f57-bbb1b9452fea_episode_14_final_pass_-_2_15_21__5.46_pm.mp3

From the fall of nursing in the 1800s (reference episode 1 for more info!!) to now, the profession has done a full 180. Nurses today are some of the most respected and valued healthcare workers in the field. This shift in the profession wasn’t random or a chance of luck. It was because of Florence Nightingale, the Mother of Nursing. In this episode you will learn about an incredible woman who played a role in shaping what it means to be a nurse, public health policy development, bringing awareness to medical research, and strategies to effectively practice medicine. In a time where medicine was expanding and population demand for healthcare was growing, Florence implemented changes and developed theories in medicine that benefit us to this day. Join in the conversation to learn about how this caring, analytical, and smart nurse used her platform to create substantial change in the care of patients from the 1800s to today.

Ep. 14 Florence Nightingale: THE nurse (& statistician & researcher & advocate &...)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/2/2/4/9522ffa9-d2cc-454a-9b13-64939db07d6d_ep_13.m4a

There are some parts of medicine that have been around for so long we sometimes forget that they were new at some point, and the vaccine is one of those things. But with the COVID vaccine at the forefront of media and conversations these days, we thought it would be interesting to take a look back at the history of vaccines and of course, highlight the role of female-identifying individuals in the development, promotion and success of vaccines through the ages. We start with the earliest inoculations that took place in Ancient China and India and end here in the present, with the development of COVID vaccines. We talk about cowpox, milkmaids, polio, protests and more! Then in our Feminist Corner discussion, we dive into questions of competition in research, ways women navigate their roles in these spaces and issues of access and privilege when it comes to COVID vaccine distribution.

Ep. 13 Vaccines: The Women That Poked and Prodded

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/1/18/18/e6093f6e-9c68-4941-82bc-d5e04da58f08_ep._12_final_pass_-_1_18_21__12.43_pm.mp3

Imagine you&#39;re relaxed, music is playing, the room is warm and smells good, your qi is flowing as needles are being stuck into you… wait, what is happening? Well, a lot is actually happening but to put it simply, acupuncture! But what even is acupuncture? I mean more than the laying on the table with needles in your back. You may be surprised by how much there is to learn about acupuncture and how it applies to the medical field today. So in this episode, we are talking about the intersection between acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and women’s health. You will learn about how your qi can be manipulated with needles, the channels that lead to your uterus, and how this alternative form can help women find balance in their healthcare. Join in the conversation as we step outside our usual scope to explore a part of medicine not always at the forefront of our mind, or our medical education.

Ep. 12 Acupuncture: Finding Balance in Women's Health

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2021/1/4/5/7cc3beb8-16f7-455e-872c-703a5a7c8018_episode_11.m4a

Imagine smearing white lead poison on your skin and lips as a way to be more beautiful. Sound crazy? Well this was an actual practice in the ancient world and is not that far off from what we do to ourselves today, in many ways. Welcome back for seasons 2 of From Skirts To Scrubs! We’re starting off our second season by talking about beauty standards of the past and present, covering Ancient Egyptian makeup, foot binding practices of the Chinese Han dynasty, supermodel vibes of the ‘80s and more! We also take some time to explore the impact that beauty and beauty products have on our physical and mental health as women living in a modern world. Tune in with us to kick off 2021 together!

Ep. 11 Beauty & Poison: Not Your Typical Beauty Standards Talk

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/12/1/3/5c737a2a-e4b5-461f-9183-53135c717aeb_bonus_episode_2_-_11_30_20__10.15_pm.mp3

When you think of careers like being a teacher, firefighter, secretary or engineer, what gender do you envision those people? Many careers are associated with particular genders, and the same goes for medicine. We explore this idea in our first ever live show, where we sit down with two highly specialized female-identifying physicians and have an honest conversation about a recently published academic paper titled &#39;When a Specialty Becomes &#34;Women&#39;s Work&#34;: Trends in and Implications of Specialty Gender Segregation in Medicine.&#39; During this talk, we explore shifts in gender predominance among medical specialities and wage as well as prestige gaps that have followed. We also get some incredible insights from our guests about their personal hardships, past experiences, and advice on mentorship, advocating for yourself regardless of career, and more. This, plus the thoughtful questions from our audience, make this episode unlike any other!

Bonus Ep. Women's Work: A Candid Conversation About Speciality Prestige

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/10/6/0/2c887149-789b-4ed1-910a-25bc2fcba53f_episode_10.m4a

We’re living in a COVID world, that’s just a fact. But we’ve been here before in a way: in 1918 when a Flu virus took over the world. This week, for the final episode of our first season, we take a look at how a simple strain of the Flu killed 5% of the world’s population. Find out where the Spanish Flu got its name, why the virus seemed to affect mostly young men and the revolutionary impact it had on women at the time. Then join us as we compare it to the COVID-19 and how this pandemic continues to impact women of all backgrounds and experiences, including women in medicine.

Ep. 10 Pandemic Women: Comparing the 1918 Flu and COVID-19

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/9/22/2/3c040831-07b4-4ec3-845d-c292e48d213a_episode_9_final.mp3

The symbol of the breast is well known throughout society. Breasts symbolize sexuality, motherhood, femininity, and more. But what do breasts mean to women who lose them? In this episode, we explore the history of the surgical procedure of breast removal, the mastectomy, in the context of breast cancer. After discussing how this procedure came about, we discuss the difficult decisions that women face after this breast removal surgery. Considering all the societal pressures on what it means to have breasts, post-mastectomy patients are left with a big question: to reconstruct or to not reconstruct?? Join us in this episode as we explore some history, talk about modern mastectomies, and look at the emotional decisions women go through to reclaim their power over their post-mastectomy bodies.

Ep. 9 The Mastectomy: Reclaim Your Power

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/9/7/20/f2e729e8-f048-4aa5-bd45-ffb7ef3d6188_episode_8.m4a

Chances are you’ve probably heard of the “ little blue pill” that gives men erections almost like magic. But have you ever heard of Flibanserin? This “female Viagra” is the topic of this week’s episode, where we start with a little science and biology but of course get into some history, learning about Erectile Dysfunction, Female Sexual Dysfunction and how their histories differ so vastly. Ranging from Mesopotamian spells that men used to cast on each other to ward off virility-stealers to the DSM-V and how its use and misuse affects women’s mental and sexual health to this day. In our Feminist Corner, we discuss the concept of “normal”, especially in the context of sexual dysfunction, and what the “Charmed Circle” is as well as how it’s used to understand sex in larger circles of society. Flibanserin deserves more of a role in the spotlight, so that’s exactly what we’re giving her!

Ep. 8 Flibanserin: Viagra's Less Popular Little Sister

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/8/25/0/db60e2d3-4ede-4595-9985-e7e40835eebc_ep_7_final.mp3

Have you ever had someone take something from you without asking? Bet it was pretty annoying huh? Now, have you ever had anyone take cells from your cervix without your consent? Probably not. But Henrietta Lacks has. In 1951, Henrietta was diagnosed with cervical cancer and her cells were taken without consent to create the first immortal cell line. From these cells, numerous medical discoveries were made and various unethical practices took place. This episode will discuss the life of Henrietta, the implications of the immortal HeLa cell line, and the importance of informed consent and respecting patients and their families. Additionally, we talk about research practices involving cell lines and minorities in medicine. Through the episode we hope to open up conversations around ethical research and medical practice while also giving listeners a space to learn about Henrietta and honor both her life and cells.

Ep. 7 Henrietta Lacks and HeLa: One in the Same

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/8/10/1/6b293927-9e83-48a0-8480-073948ff637e_episode_6_final.m4a

Think about the first time you heard about a woman being a doctor? Maybe you were 4 years old and your doctor mom came home with a stethoscope around her neck or maybe you were 12 and heard about your brother’s best friend’s sister getting into medical school. Regardless, women in your life and around the world have been training to become physicians for centuries. But how has medical education for women evolved over time? In this episode, we dive into the history of women as medical students in the U.S. Along the way, we cover what 19th century medical education even involved (we’re talkin curriculum, pre-reqs, cost and more), the rise and fall of all-female medical colleges, and what social conditions finally led women to say enough is enough. Something changed to make women the majority of medical students in our country today...join us as we try to figure out what!

Ep. 6 Women as Medical Students: Time for a Takeover

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/7/25/18/0dc7177d-f5f9-4680-927b-74a2392824da_episode_5_part_2_final_.mp3

Sorry to cut you off! Hopefully everyone had a good mid-episode break and are refreshed for Part 2. To start off Part 2, we give a teeny tiny history of second wave feminism and the importance of this movement in relation to the birth control pill. Which speaking of, do you know how the pill has affected society and our culture? I promise, it will surprise you. After finishing up the history, we jump headfirst into one of our most complex Feminist Corner discussions yet! Join us as we discuss the implications of the relationship between church &amp; state and how to identify our own biases. Additionally, we talk about how to be an advocate for women’s health rights and share a personal birth control story. What’s your reason for taking birth control? Check out fromskirtstoscrubs.com under Episode 5 for resources on how to access birth control in your area. To learn more about why various women take birth control and participate in the #mybirthcontrolreason movement, check out our instagram (@fromskirtstoscrubs) for stories and posts!

Ep. 5 Birth Control Part 2: The Seventh Wonder

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/7/25/16/4d4c5a3d-bee3-47e3-8697-dc78a4762416_episode_5_part_1_final_.mp3

Before modern medicine, what lengths would you resort to in an attempt to not get pregnant? Well men and women throughout history pushed the limits on what qualified as birth control. In Part 1 of this episode we laugh and joke as we learn the methods of birth control used by people across time and civilizations. But hey if it works, it works right? Maybe not… After our world tour of birth control, we follow the timeline of the creation of the birth control pill and birth control advocacy in the United States. Do you know the amazing woman who pioneered this section of history? Well, join us this week to learn her name, some various ancient birth methods, and modern contraceptive history! After listening, be sure to listen to Part 2 to finish the full episode! Check out fromskirtstoscrubs.com under Episode 5 for resources on how to access birth control in your area. To learn more about why various women take birth control and participate in the #mybirthcontrolreason movement, check out our instagram (@fromskirtstoscrubs) for stories and posts!

Ep. 5 Birth Control Part 1: The Seventh Wonder

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/7/13/20/d57cc5fa-1f39-4f89-9fef-f89435e8d323_episode_4_final.m4a

Human experimentation has had a long, dark history in the practice of medicine, with people of color being the subjects far too often. This week, we discuss the lives of Anarcha, Betsey and Lucy, three of the ten enslaved Black women subjected to the gynecological experiments of Dr. J. Marion Sims, an Antebellum physician. Learn about why he was experimenting on these women, what these women endured and what the outcomes of his experiments mean for us today. Also be sure to stick around for our Feminist Corner discussion, where we are joined by Dr. Diana Louis a professor of Women’s Studies and American Culture at the University of Michigan, as she discusses the concept of intersectionality with us and how we can use it as a tool to better understand our own lives as women and women in healthcare.

Ep. 4 Anarcha, Betsey and Lucy: Remember Their Names

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/6/30/5/2b732503-66a4-49db-8504-c6568a8f61b6_ep_3_-_final_.mp3

If you have ever taken an introduction to psychology class or read an obscure psych article on a blog, you may have heard of Sigmund Freud. Freud is known as the Father of Psychology. His various theories have impacted society throughout the past century and his theories and ideas about women are no different. In these theories, Freud tries to solve ‘The Riddle of Femininity’ and uncover what exactly it is that makes women so mystical (wooo). And let&#39;s just say, these theories can be a little out there at some points. So join us this week to discuss what exactly these theories are, and how they have impacted the perceptions of women. Additionally, we will dip our toes into the larger discussion of what femininity means to us, as we ourselves try to understand this Riddle.

Ep. 3 Freudian Ideas of Women: The Riddle

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/6/18/21/0a99c55d-9401-4400-9504-8acbe6106c47_ep_2_lizzy_-_6_18_20__3.22_pm.m4a

Do YOU know how the first woman got into med school? Was it because of her brains? Looks? Luck? You can find out in our first biography episode, a deep dive into the life and times of Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female to graduate from medical school in the United States. But this biography doesn’t just cover the incredible accomplishments of Dr. Blackwell. Oh no, we get into the ups and downs of her life and even some little moments that really bring this woman’s personality to life. Listen to hear more about how a little British girl moved to the US, got admitted to an all-male medical school, founded her own hospital and set the stage for decades of women to carry forward her legacy.

Ep. 2 Elizabeth Blackwell M.D.: Wait, THAT girl is a doctor?

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/5/28/17/8dd5c2ed-ef37-4d7c-8d49-e980b5b61076_final.mp3

When you think of nursing, what comes to mind? Probably not Greek women working in an ancient temple or women being named saints. But hey, history is full of surprises. Join us as Charlotte teaches Alesha about the rise and fall of the incredibly important profession of nursing. We will start in 2575 BCE and will end in 1800 CE as we travel from the pyramids of Egypt to the Roman forum and back around to the churches of medieval Europe. In this journey, we will learn about the beginning of the nursing profession and seek to understand how society’s perceptions of women have affected nurses throughout history and today.

Ep. 1 Ancient Origins of Nursing: The Rise and Fall

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2020/5/19/20/e7e44803-dcb2-4b84-b9e0-055d14b53f58_trailer_-_ep_1_-_final_final_final.mp3

Welcome to From Skirts To Scrubs, a podcast about all things relating to women in medicine. We will be discussing history and sharing how those stories relate to us as future healthcare providers and as women in general! Episodes will be released every other Tuesday, so subscribe now to join the conversation. We appreciate your support!

Ep. 0 Introduction

Join two medical students as they navigate what it means to be a woman in the medical field and in their own lives!

Join medical students Charlotte Thill (she/her) and Alesha Kotian (she/her) as they navigate what it means to be a woman in the medical field and in their own lives. Each episode focuses on topics in medical history, current events, various health professions, female healthcare pioneers, and more! By analyzing different areas of healthcare and history through a feminist lens, From Skirts To Scrubs hopes to create a space to explore what it means to be a woman in medicine while having some fun along the way!

From Skirts To Scrubs

Episodes