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Dr. Cuterus Dives Deep into STIs, Vulva, Vagina, Orgasms, and Sex Myths | What the Health! Podcast

Introduction to the podcast

00:00:00

Dr. Tanaa Narendra, an internationally trained Medical Doctor, embryologist, and author with a focus on sexual health and body awareness. She debunks myths about the female body by teaching everything nobody tells you.

Why ‘Dr. Cuterus’?

00:01:43

Dr. Cuterus was born out of a personal journey and passion for women's health, influenced by the speaker's upbringing in a family of doctors and her experience studying in the UK. The idea took shape when she started sharing information about menstrual cups on social media, leading to the creation of Dr. Cuterus as an educational platform for period and sexual health.

How much sexual education is there v/s needed?

00:04:06

There is a significant gap between the existing sexual education and the level of awareness needed. Misinformation about our bodies is widespread, leading to serious consequences. The lack of accurate knowledge has resulted in fertility issues and other health problems, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education.

What about Body Hatred?

00:07:25

The obsession with body image, including breast size, penis size, and intimate area lightening. The impact of societal standards from porn on sexual performance and mental health.

Know your body

00:09:47

Understanding the Vagina The vagina is an elastic organ, and it's a misconception that vaginas can become 'tight' or like a 'black hole' after childbirth. The external part of the female genitalia is not the vagina; it's actually called the vulva. Understanding this distinction helps in addressing issues like shaving and pimples correctly.

Body Pigmentation and Breast Sag Pigmentation variations in body parts, such as darker patches on Indian skin tones, are normal. Additionally, breast sagging is a natural occurrence due to aging. These are common aspects of diversity among women's bodies.

Nipple Variations Different nipple shapes (pointing outwards, flat, slightly inverted) are normal variations unless there’s an abrupt change overnight which may require medical attention for underlying conditions. Embracing these diverse features contributes to understanding one’s own body better.

Types of female sex organs and their location.

00:12:49

Female sex organs include the clitoris, vagina, urethra, uterus, ovaries and pelvic floor. The clitoris is key for orgasm and requires extra stimulation apart from penetration. The pelvis model illustrates the location of these organs and their functions.

Myths around Masturbation

00:16:39

Misinformation about masturbation has been prevalent for centuries, with efforts to prevent it dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Dr. Kellogg invented cornflakes as an anti-masturbatory food, believing that spicy foods would suppress desires. However, not masturbating can lead to nightfall (nocturnal emissions), which is a normal bodily function. Masturbation is a safe and healthy way of exploring one's sexuality and understanding personal preferences.

Myth-busting

00:20:45

Female Reproductive Myths Debunking myths about the female reproductive system, including the misconception that removing the uterus can make you look slimmer and clarifying that females do not have an unlimited supply of eggs.

Ovarian Cysts and Vaginal Health Exploring different types of ovarian cysts, their relation to infertility, and emphasizing the importance of paying attention to symptoms. Additionally addressing misconceptions about vaginal health such as post-birth changes in vagina elasticity.

Vagina Myths Debunked Dispelling myths related to tampons getting lost inside the vagina, odorless healthy vaginas, diversity in labia appearance, bleeding during first-time sex (virginity), tearing hymen with tampon use or losing virginity through hymen breakage. Also explaining clitoris anatomy and pubic hair hygiene.

What is Safe Sex?

00:34:45

Safe sex is more than just preventing pregnancy. It also protects from sexually transmitted infections, including HPV, which can lead to various cancers such as cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is crucial for both men and women to prevent these types of cancers. Condoms are the only contraceptive option that prevents sexually transmitted infections when used perfectly during the entire act.

What are STIs and how to prevent them?

00:39:13

STIs can be asymptomatic but still present, making regular testing important. HIV, HPV, and Hepatitis B are among the most dangerous STDs with long-lasting consequences. Testing for STIs is crucial before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner.

Bacterial and Fungal infections in the Vagina

00:41:09

The vagina is a self-cleaning organ and does not require washing. Bacterial vaginosis has a fishy smell, while fungal infections look like cottage cheese. It's important to see a doctor if experiencing these symptoms.

What if you get an STI?

00:46:08

STIs can be curable or life-threatening, depending on the type. Some are curable with antibiotics, while others may be carried lifelong but can be managed to prevent outbreaks.

Contraception and its side-effects

00:46:50

Contraception and Morning After Pill The morning after pill is different from regular contraception. It's important to remember that it works as long as ovulation has not occurred, but there are simpler ways to prevent pregnancy. Heavy doses of these pills can cause side effects, so it's best to avoid them if you don't want a pregnancy.

Choosing Contraceptive Methods The choice of contraceptive method should be made along with a doctor who can analyze family history or personal medical history. Insertable devices, internal condoms, injectable devices, and hormone options are available. Sitting down with a doctor is the ideal way to find the best contraceptive option for an individual.

Abortion in India 67% of abortions in India occur outside healthcare facilities and eight women die daily due to abortion-related complications caused by wrong techniques.

What should you know about Abortions?

00:51:42

Understanding Abortion Laws and Options Abortion laws and statistics in India and globally. The importance of safe abortions for mental, financial, and social reasons. Legal options for up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion is available with approval from more doctors if causing distress.

Empowering Fertility Education Fertility education, lifestyle measures to improve fertility including quitting smoking, age-related fertility decline, infertility as a couple's problem rather than just a woman's issue. Interventions for male factor infertility such as antioxidants and advanced procedures like IUI or IVF.

Most common issues that men and women face around sexual health

00:59:25

Common Sexual Health Issues Men and women commonly face sexual health issues that affect their overall life, such as erection problems, premature ejaculation, work-life balance challenges leading to loss of libido. Seeking help from experts is crucial for investigation and recommendations.

Women's Sexual Health Challenges Society makes it difficult for women to address sexual health issues. Many women live with low desire for sex without seeking help. A heartwarming story highlights the importance of open conversations about female sexuality and the need to seek expert advice rather than relying on ineffective products or self-medication.

Question & Answer Round

01:04:04

Sex During Periods Having sex during periods can actually help relieve cramps and make them less awful. Orgasms can deliver pain-relieving natural chemicals to the pelvis, increasing blood flow. It's safe but there is still a low likelihood of getting pregnant, so using protection is important.

Low Sex Drive and Abortion Consent Low libido in women may be due to underlying hormonal imbalances or other factors; speaking with a professional for guidance is recommended. When it comes to abortion, the only consent that matters (if over 18) is yours alone. If pregnancy occurs while not wanting it, speak with your doctor about options.

Let's play the Reverse Taboo Game!

01:10:46

The Reverse Taboo Game involves picking a word and giving clues to Google so that it says the word. The game includes terms like 'gyne ASA' (man boobs), 'dry spell,' 'asteroid,' and more, with humorous interactions.