What are the origins of HRT and estrogen therapy? Historian Alison Li takes us back to 1930s Canada, and the ‘endocrine gold rush’, when estrogen was extracted from hogs, then human placentas, and finally horses - to create the drug Premarin (the name comes from PREgnant MAre urINE). The making and marketing of estrogen therapy would shape how we think about menopause in particular, for decades to come.

Click the 'Follow' button for more women's health stories.

More on Alison Li and her work https://alisonli.com/

A word from our sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Tell Every Amazing Lady®

Whether you've had an ovarian cancer diagnosis or have questions about general women's health, like your first visit to the OBGYN or you're going through menopause, Tell Every Amazing Lady® is here to help!

Tell Every Amazing Lady® supports ovarian cancer survivors and their families, provides ovarian cancer awareness, offers education on women’s health, and funds medical research. It is a powerful resource for every woman, offering education and support throughout the entire lifespan, from puberty through menopause, while remaining committed to ovarian cancer prevention at all ages.

The organization aims to help every woman understand her body and how to protect it. Visit the website TellEveryAmazingLady.org to explore all the resources available. Events and activities, both virtual and in-person, are held every month, and everyone is invited to join. More information about these activities can be found on the event central page of the website, or through social media at @telleveryamazinglady.

Tell Every Amazing Lady® wants to hear from you. Whether you're a survivor of ovarian cancer, have lost a loved one to ovarian cancer, or you're going through menopause and feel alone, your story is wanted. Email contact@telleveryamazinglady.org to share.

Learn more: @TellEveryAmazingLady

website: www.TellEveryAmazingLady.org

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

Follow the show, and episodes will come to you automatically.

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 origin story of estrogen therapy, with Alison Li

Overlooked: Women's Health Can't Wait

The origin story of estrogen therapy, with Alison Li