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In this sobering and important episode, we look into the history of forced sterilization in the U.S. Listen to "8. Based on a true story: The sad reality of forced sterilization in the U.S." wherever you get your podcasts.
Episode summary
A government sterilizing young girls without their consent seems like the premise of a dystopian nightmare. But author Dolen Perkins-Valdez' book on the subject isn't a glimpse into a dreaded future; it's historical fiction. She and Dr. Swapna Reddy explain the true history of forced sterilization in the U.S. that targeted minority populations.
In this episode, Dr. Millstine and her guests discuss:
- Historical fiction that's not that historical … or fictitious. "We're still living many of the issues that are being discussed in this book," Dr. Reddy says. Women and girls are still fighting for the right to control their own reproductive choices — whether that's to have, or not have, children.
- The need to feel heard. Too many women know what it's like to feel like your health care team is not taking you seriously. You may know Serena William's story of repeatedly asking doctors to take her risk of blood clots seriously after giving birth, but you probably know someone much closer to you who's experienced something similar.
- The road to hell … How could so many people allow the forced sterilization of women to happen in the U.S.? In Dolen's book (as in life) good intentions aren't a barrier to doing real harm. We talk about the need to examine our own culpability in harmful systems.
Question for discussion:
- Good healthcare requires that the patient understands and consents to their care. Do you have an example of a doctor or other health professional who took the time to fully explain your options or treatment plan? What difference did that make in your health experience?
Share your thoughts, questions and opinions below!
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