Why Women’s Bodies Deserve More Science

In this episode, host Philippa dives into the deep-rooted gender disparities in medical research and healthcare. She explores the historical exclusion of women from clinical trials and highlights key turning points like the Women's Health Initiative and the 1993 federal mandate for including female subjects in federally funded studies. Despite progress, women still only made up 40% of clinical trial participants for major diseases in 2019—while representing over half the population. Philippa discusses the consequences of this gap, from the thalidomide tragedy to the neglect of pain management in procedures like IUD insertions, and the ongoing underrepresentation of women of color in research. She also shines a light on organizations fighting for change, including the Society for Women's Health Research. Tune in for a candid conversation about why women’s health deserves more attention—and more science.