Modern IUDs - intrauterine devices - are a safe form of contraception for most women. But this wasn’t always the case. Author Chikako Takeshita traces the history and development of these devices, originally created for population control in 1960s, and talks about one IUD in particular, the Dalkon Shield, which would cause widespread harm to the women who used it, and in some cases, had lethal consequences.

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The Global Biopolitics of the IUD: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262547840/the-global-biopolitics-of-the-iud/

Chikako Takeshita: Associate Professor at the University of California Riverside - https://profiles.ucr.edu/app/home/profile/chikakot

More information about IUDs: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24441-intrauterine-device-iud

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ABOUT THE SHOW: Overlooked tells powerful stories about women's health conditions that don't get enough attention. The show is hosted by Golda Arthur, an audio journalist and producer. Learn more about the show here: https://bit.ly/TheOverlookedNewsletter

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DISCLAIMER What you hear and read on ‘Overlooked’ is for general information purposes only and represents the opinions of the host and guests. The content on the podcast and website should not be taken as medical advice. Every person’s body is unique, so please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions that may arise.

The dark history of the Dalkon Shield IUD, with Chikako Takeshita

Overlooked: Women's Health Can't Wait

The dark history of the Dalkon Shield IUD, with Chikako Takeshita