89. What Drug Companies Don't Disclose with Allison Behringer

Side Effects

Allison Behringer shares her personal journey with hormonal birth control, highlighting the often overlooked side effects. She recounts how the pill caused her to experience painful sex, leading to a diagnosis of vulvodynia, a condition linked to hormonal changes from the pill 1. This revelation prompted her to explore the broader impact of birth control on women's health, discovering that many women suffer in silence due to a lack of awareness and research on these side effects 2.

It was crazy to me at the time because I didn't even think twice about the pill. Like, half the time on intake forms, I wouldn't even include it.

--- Allison Behringer

Her story underscores the need for more comprehensive studies and open discussions about the implications of hormonal contraceptives 3.

   

Medical Dismissal

The dismissal of women's health concerns by the medical community is a recurring theme in Allison Behringer's narrative. She describes her experience with a dismissive gynecologist who trivialized her pain, a common issue many women face when seeking medical help 2. This dismissal often stems from systemic sexism and a lack of research into women's health issues, leading to prolonged suffering and misdiagnosis 4.

I remember I went to my gynecologist, and she was just kind of like, oh, lots of women have pain with sex. Use more lube.

--- Allison Behringer

Allison's story highlights the importance of validating women's health experiences and advocating for better medical understanding and treatment 5.