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August 22, 2024 • 1hr 5min
The Science of Women’s Health: Ob/Gyn Reveals 10 Truths You Need to Know
The Mel Robbins Podcast
In this episode of The Mel Robbins Podcast, Mel interviews Dr. Jen Gunter, a board-certified OB/GYN and women's health expert known as "the internet's favorite gynecologist." Dr. Gunter is on a mission to combat medical misinformation, especially when it comes to women's health. She provides evidence-based, no-nonsense facts to empower women with accurate information about their bodies.
The conversation covers a wide range of women's health topics, debunking common myths and misconceptions. Dr. Gunter emphasizes the importance of relying on scientific evidence rather than marketing claims or social media trends when it comes to health information. She aims to undo harmful messaging that makes women feel ashamed or "dirty" about normal bodily functions.
The Science of Women’s Health: Ob/Gyn Reveals 10 Truths You Need to Know
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Key Takeaways
- The v****a is self-cleaning and does not require special products or cleaning routines. Most feminine hygiene products are unnecessary and can actually be harmful.
- There is no need to "balance" vaginal pH. The v****a maintains its own pH naturally. Products claiming to balance pH are misleading.
- Discharge is normal and can vary in amount and consistency. Up to 3-4 mL per day is considered normal.
- Pain during s*x is not normal and should be evaluated by a doctor. There are many potential causes that can be treated.
- The hymen does not "break" during first intercourse. This is a myth perpetuated by the "virginity industrial complex".
- Pubic hair removal is a personal choice, not a medical necessity. There are no health benefits to removing pubic hair.
- Orgasms from penetration alone are not the norm for many women. This is a myth perpetuated by media/porn.
- Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis have overlapping symptoms and are difficult to self-diagnose. See a doctor if over-the-counter treatments don't work.
- There is no scientific evidence for "cleanses" or ways to "boost" the immune system. These are marketing gimmicks.
- The two most important things for overall health are exercise and eating 25g of fiber per day.
Introduction
In this episode of The Mel Robbins Podcast, Mel interviews Dr. Jen Gunter, a board-certified OB/GYN and women's health expert known as "the internet's favorite gynecologist." Dr. Gunter is on a mission to combat medical misinformation, especially when it comes to women's health. She provides evidence-based, no-nonsense facts to empower women with accurate information about their bodies.
The conversation covers a wide range of women's health topics, debunking common myths and misconceptions. Dr. Gunter emphasizes the importance of relying on scientific evidence rather than marketing claims or social media trends when it comes to health information. She aims to undo harmful messaging that makes women feel ashamed or "dirty" about normal bodily functions.
Topics Discussed
Vaginal Health and Hygiene (39:14)
Dr. Gunter emphasizes that the v****a is self-cleaning and does not require special products:
- The v****a maintains its own pH balance naturally. Products claiming to "balance pH" are unnecessary and misleading.
- Most feminine hygiene products are not only unnecessary, but can be harmful by disrupting the v****a's natural ecosystem.
- Normal vaginal discharge can be up to 3-4 mL per day. Discharge is the v****a's way of cleaning itself.
- "The v****a is self cleaning. Oven takes care of itself. You don't need to do anything there," states Dr. Gunter.
For external cleaning of the vulva:
- A gentle, unscented cleanser (like those used for the face) is sufficient. No special "feminine washes" are needed.
- Avoid using soap, which can be drying and disrupt pH.
Underwear and Clothing (39:40)
Dr. Gunter dispels several myths about underwear and clothing:
- There is no medical need to wear or not wear underwear. It's a personal preference.
- The v****a does not need to "breathe" at night. Sleeping without underwear is not necessary.
- Thongs and lace underwear do not cause yeast infections. The material and color of underwear does not impact vaginal health.
- Shapewear is not inherently harmful, as long as it's not uncomfortably tight.
Yeast Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis (42:23)
Dr. Gunter explains the differences between yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV):
- Symptoms can overlap, making self-diagnosis difficult.
- Yeast infections involve an overgrowth of yeast, while BV involves an imbalance of bacteria in the v****a.
- If over-the-counter yeast infection treatments don't work, see a doctor as it may be BV or another condition.
- Boric acid suppositories should only be used under medical guidance, not as a routine "pH balancer".
Sexual Health and Pleasure (26:11)
Dr. Gunter addresses several myths about female sexual pleasure:
- The idea that all women should orgasm from penetration alone is a myth. Many women require clitoral stimulation.
- There is no "normal" amount of time it should take to reach orgasm. Hollywood depictions are unrealistic.
- Pain during s*x is not normal and should be evaluated by a doctor. There are many treatable causes.
- Lubrication needs vary. Using lubricant is normal and can enhance pleasure.
"The biggest myth I undo is this idea that the p***s is the bringer of the orgasm," states Dr. Gunter.
The Hymen and Virginity Myths (33:18)
Dr. Gunter strongly debunks myths about the hymen and virginity:
- The hymen does not "break" or "pop" during first intercourse. It naturally wears away over time.
- Bleeding during first intercourse is not typical for most women.
- There is no physical way to determine if someone is a virgin. "Virginity" is a social construct, not a medical condition.
- "This whole awful industry, and there's these awful doctors offering to rebuild a hymen. It isn't even a thing. Like, it's so awful and it's so predatory," Dr. Gunter emphasizes.
Pubic Hair (09:07)
Dr. Gunter discusses pubic hair grooming:
- Pubic hair removal is a personal choice, not a medical necessity.
- There are no health benefits to removing pubic hair. It likely serves protective functions.
- Hair removal can sometimes lead to irritation or infections.
- The current obsession with pubic hair grooming is largely cultural, not based on health concerns.
Menstruation (50:18)
Dr. Gunter addresses period myths and symptoms:
- Menstrual blood does not contain "toxins" or "impurities". It's simply blood and uterine lining.
- Period diarrhea affects about 12% of menstruating people but is rarely discussed.
- Prostaglandins released during menstruation can cause cramps and gastrointestinal symptoms.
General Health and Wellness Claims (52:23)
Dr. Gunter debunks several popular health and wellness claims:
- There is no scientific evidence for "cleanses" or "detoxes". The body naturally eliminates waste.
- "Boosting" the immune system is not medically meaningful. An overactive immune system can be harmful.
- Seed oils (like canola oil) are not inherently inflammatory or unhealthy.
- There is no need to have a bowel movement every day. Normal frequency ranges from 3 times a day to every 3 days.
"When you hear the word cleanse, you should think scam," Dr. Gunter states emphatically.
Finding Reliable Health Information (1:03:00)
Dr. Gunter provides advice on researching health information:
- Google searches often prioritize popular content, not necessarily accurate medical information.
- Look for information from professional medical organizations rather than commercial websites.
- Be wary of anyone claiming you urgently need to "fix" something about your body. This is often a sales tactic.
- There is usually time to research and get second opinions, even for serious conditions (barring true emergencies).
Most Important Health Advice (54:54)
Dr. Gunter emphasizes two key factors for overall health:
- Regular exercise
- Consuming 25 grams of fiber daily
- The average American only consumes 10-12 grams
- Adequate fiber intake reduces risk of breast cancer, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes
- High-fiber cereals can be an easy way to increase intake
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, Dr. Gunter emphasizes the importance of relying on scientific evidence rather than marketing claims or social media trends when it comes to health information. She aims to empower women with accurate knowledge about their bodies and undo harmful messaging that makes women feel ashamed about normal bodily functions.
Dr. Gunter encourages listeners to be skeptical of health claims, especially those that play on insecurities or promise quick fixes. She emphasizes that most aspects of vaginal and vulvar health do not require special products or interventions. The body is generally well-equipped to maintain its own health with basic hygiene and care.
For those seeking health information, Dr. Gunter recommends looking to reputable medical organizations rather than relying solely on internet searches or social media. She encourages women to advocate for themselves in medical settings and not be afraid to seek second opinions or additional information.
Ultimately, Dr. Gunter's message is one of body positivity and empowerment through knowledge. By understanding how their bodies actually work, women can make informed decisions about their health and push back against harmful myths and marketing tactics.