Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me This?

Joyce Harper
Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me This?

Welcome to season 2 of the podcast - Why didn’t anyone tell me this? This podcast is about health education with an emphasis on reproductive health. We do not cover these topics enough in school or beyond. Joyce Harper and her guests want to give you the tools to empower you to live a healthy, happy and fulfilled life. And on the way, we will debunk some of the myths around our health. This podcast will include a wide range of amazing guests, discussing topics such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental health, happiness, cancer, periods, fertility, infertility, fertility treatment, preconception health, pregnancy, miscarriage, PCOS, endometriosis, menopause and much more. Joyce is a cold-water swimmer so expect some episodes about swimming! They will tell you about their work and life journey, what are the key messages they want you to know, their motivation, what makes them happy and their advice to their younger self. Joyce Harper is an award-winning author, educator, academic, and scientist with over 30 years’ experience in reproductive health. She is Professor of Reproductive Science at the Institute for Women’s Health at University College London where she heads the Reproductive Science and Society group. Her latest book, Your Fertile Years, is published by Sheldon Press, 2021. She is chair of the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration (www.eshre.eu/IRHEC) and co-chair of the UK Fertility Education Initiative. She is founder of Reproductive Health at Work. Further information at www.joyceharper.com.

  1. 5D AGO

    Season 3, #E8: Clare Mulley: The Stories of Wartime Heroines

    Clare Mulley is an award-winning public historian, author and broadcaster, primarily focused on female experience during the Second World War. Clare’s most recent book Agent Zo: The Untold Story of courageous Second World War resistance Fighter, Elżbieta Zawacka, is the critically-acclaimed biography of the only woman to parachute from Britain to Nazi German-occupied Poland. Previous titles include the award-winning The Woman Who Saved the Children, on Eglantyne Jebb, founder of Save the Children; The Spy Who Loved a biography of the first woman to serve Britain as a special agent in the Second World War and The Women Who Flew for Hitler, which tells the story of Nazi Germany’s only two female test pilots. Clare’s books are widely translated and have all been optioned for film or TV.  Clare regularly appears in the press and on TV. Clare is a brilliant storyteller, bringing to life the remarkable stories of extraordinary women who made significant contributions during the world wars—women whose legacies deserve to be known. She shares the inspiration behind her first book about Eglantyne Jebb, the founder of Save the Children, and the journey that guided her in choosing her next subjects. Clare offers insight into her meticulous research and writing process, striving to create biographies that are both historically accurate and deeply engaging. Many of these women were often judged by their appearance rather than their achievements—a bias that remains relevant in today’s society. These women were true female icons. Transcription link: www.joyceharper.com/podcasts Date of episode recording: 2025-02-27T00:00:00ZDuration: 00.54.35Language of episode: EnglishPresenter:Professor Joyce HarperGuests: Clare MulleyProducer: Joyce Harper

    55 min

  2. APR 2

    Season 3 #E7 Glenn Stout: Trudy Ederle: Young women and the sea

    Glenn Stout is a freelance writer, author, and editorial consultant, served as series editor of The Best American Sports Writing since its inception, and was Founding Editor of The Year’s Best Sports Writing. He is the author of Young Woman and the Sea, Tiger Girl and the Candy Kid, Fenway 1912, and many others. Glenn began as a free-lance career in 1986 and has been a full-time author since 1993. He has written, ghostwritten or edited one hundred books representing sales of more than three million copies. Glenn has also served as a writing coach for private clients, given presentations to groups of editors, writers and students about writing books, the writing process and the editorial process he uses for longform journalism. He also serves as Director of the Archer City Writer’s Workshops at the Larry Mac Mur try Literary Center in Archer City, Texas Glenn grew up in Ohio, graduated from Bard College in New York, and lived in and around Boston for 20 years before moving to Vermont in 2002. He is a citizen of both the United States and Canada.  Glenn has been a sportswriter for decades, and when he discovered that Gertrude (Trudy) Ederle became the first woman to swim the English Channel on August 6, 1926, he was compelled to tell her story. She is one of many remarkable female pioneers whose achievements remain largely unknown. Before trailblazers like Trudy, Annette Kellerman, and Charlotte Epstein, women’s participation in swimming was rare, partly due to societal restrictions on modesty and concerns about the sport’s safety for women. However, these women defied expectations, with Trudy proving beyond doubt that women could not only swim—but excel. In this podcast, we uncover some of the astonishing facts about swimming during this era. Date of episode recording: 2025-02-24T00:00:00ZDuration: 01.01.59Language of episode: EnglishPresenter:Professor Joyce HarperGuests: Glenn StoutProducer: Joyce Harper

    1h 2m

  3. MAR 19

    Season 3 #E6: Professor Helen O’Connell: The clitoris: The great unknown

    Professor Helen O'Connell is a leading researcher in the area of female pelvic anatomy and was the first woman to complete training as a urologist in Australia in 1994. She did her Fellowship training in the US in 1994-5 in the management, including surgery, of all problems affecting function of the lower urinary tract in men and women. In 2023 she became the President of the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand. She uses state of the art medical imaging to treat a long list of conditions. Helen was the first person to accurately describe the structure of the clitoris.  Instagram: @profhelenoconnell  It is astonishing that before Helen’s work in the 1990s, the anatomy of the clitoris was not fully understood. Through her ground-breaking research, she published two key papers in 1998 and 2005 that revealed the intricate structure of the clitoris. Her findings showed that the visible glans, rich in thousands of nerve endings, is only a small part of a much larger organ. The crura (two internal arms) wrap around the vaginal canal, while the vestibular bulbs sit on either side of the vaginal opening. Apart from the glans, the clitoris is composed of erectile tissue, designed to facilitate female orgasm. It is there for a reason – for women to have an orgasm. If achieving orgasm is difficult, seeking medical advice can be beneficial. Helen also explores the diversity of female anatomy, the misleading portrayal of sex in pornography, and the risks of labial surgery for cosmetic reasons. We discuss how female g******s change throughout life, the impact of female genital mutilation (FGM), and the controversial question—does the G-spot really exist? Transcription link: www.joyceharper.com/podcasts Date of episode recording: 2025-03-13T00:00:00ZDuration: 01.06.28Language of episode: EnglishPresenter:Professor Joyce HarperGuests: Professor Helen O'ConnellProducer: Joyce Harper

    1h 6m

  4. MAR 5

    Season 3, #E5: Dr Pippa Sangster: Understanding the penis and testicles

    Pippa is a consultant urologist at University College London Hospital (UCLH) and is the lead for the male infertility service. A urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the urinary tract and reproductive system for men, women, and children. Pippa qualified from Guy’s and St Thomas’s Medical School, London in 2001. She has further degrees in Psychology (BSc) and was awarded the gold medal in the Urology MSc. She holds an Honorary Associate Professor post within reproductive health. Her main area of expertise is Andrology. An andrologist is someone who focuses on male sexual health and the male reproductive system.  Pippa particularly works with men suffering with infertility, erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease and associated endocrine related issues. In addition to medically improving men’s sperm counts and health, she performs surgical sperm retrieval and is a world-renowned expert at MicroTESE and varicocele repair.  Instagram: @pippa_sangster  How much do you know about the anatomy and function of the penis and testicles? Does penis size matter? Pippa says the answer is no! We explored the role of testosterone in men, debunking some common myths about it. Sex for men is complicated – getting an erection, sustaining an erection, not coming too soon, or too late. Pippa explains the ladder of medical treatments that men can use to help with erections and the link between the lack of erection and heart disease, primarily due to the role of blood flow and vascular health in both conditions. If a man has any problems with getting an erection, he should see his doctor. However, ejaculation problems are often more difficult to treat. Pippa has encountered many men resorting to black market treatments to solve these issues, including injecting unregulated substances into their penis.  We also discuss what men need to consider if they want to have children. And Pippa explains testicular, penile, and prostate cancer. Men's reproductive health remains a taboo subject, and it's time to break the silence—encouraging men to talk openly, both with each other and with their doctors. Transcription link: www.joyceharper.com/podcasts Date of episode recording: 2025-02-28T00:00:00ZDuration: 01.10.22Language of episode: EnglishPresenter:Professor Joyce HarperGuests: Dr Pippa SangsterProducer: Joyce Harper

    1h 10m

  5. FEB 19

    Season 3 #E4: Dr Anita Mitra, the Gynae Geek: Understanding the womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries

    Dr Anita Mitra is a renowned Dr in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and is also known as The Gynae Geek on social media. With over 160k followers on Instagram, she is a trusted source of information, in a time rife with many self-proclaimed experts and internet gurus. Her medical journey began at the University of Leicester, where she first earned a BSc in Medical Biochemistry and then a degree in Medicine. Anita is presently a Clinical Research Fellow in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Imperial College London, alongside practising as a Subspecialty Fellow in Gynaecological Oncology at the Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. In 2019 Anita published her book The Gynae Geek, which seeks to empower women by dispelling myths and educating them about how their body works using scientific research. The book also tackles topical issues, such as menopause, contraception, and cancer. When not in the lab, or solving mysteries between someone’s legs, Anita can be found in a gym perfecting her deadlift technique, drinking overpriced coffee in various London cafes, or running around after her two year old twins. Instagram: @gynaegeek https://www.gynaegeek.com/  How much were you taught at school about the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries? In this podcast, Anita explains what these structures look like (you can find more images on her website) and how they work together. We explore how the menstrual cycle is driven by hormones affecting these organs, leading to periods and ovulation, and delve into what happens during pregnancy. Anita guides us through how these organs change throughout a woman’s life—from before puberty to post-menopause—and highlights some of the health conditions that can affect the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. She explains the warning signs we should all be aware of, when to seek help, and the tests available to identify potential issues.  While we may not have cures for many women’s health conditions, Anita discusses the treatments available to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Maintaining the health of our reproductive system starts with preventative care. Anita emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors like nutrition, sleep, exercise, and mental health, showing how interconnected these aspects are. Anita tells us about her amazing work as the Gynae Geek and shares insights from her two brilliant books and her extensive experience as a doctor treating patients. She also offers real stories from her practice that shed light on the challenges and triumphs in women’s health. This is a podcast where everyone will learn something valuable.   Date of episode recording: 2025-01-15T00:00:00Z Duration: 01.19.52 Language of episode: English Presenter:Professor Joyce Harper Guests: Dr Anita Mitra, The Gynae Geek Producer: Joyce Harper

    1h 20m

  6. FEB 5

    Season 3 #E3: Dr Tasha Gandamihardja: Understanding breasts

    Dr Tasha is a highly-respected consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon at The Holly Private Hospital and also practices for the NHS in Chelmsford. Her specialisms include breast cancer surgery, breast lumps and breast pain, alongside breast reconstruction, nipple discharge and breast surgery. Dr Tasha has an MBBS from the Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, an MEd in Surgical Education from Imperial College London and a BSc and PhD from University College London. She also has a FRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Dr Tasha shares her expert knowledge via her 'My Breast, My Health' blog and podcast. She has dedicated her life to helping people navigate through breast cancer. Instagram: @drtashag YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_6rR4QmTy8gXa5wWppxwTQ  The structure of the breast is relatively simple, with two primary functions: breastfeeding and pleasure. Dr. Tasha sheds light on why men have nipples and debunks many common myths surrounding breasts. Together, we explore why breastfeeding rates are decreasing while breast surgeries are on the rise. Dr. Tasha also explains how breasts change throughout the menstrual cycle, as well as from puberty to menopause. We dive into the topic of bras—are you one of those people who can’t wait to take your bra off the moment you get home? Dr. Tasha discusses whether you’re wearing the right bra, particularly for proper support during exercise. We also address key issues such as breast pain, breast cancer, and other common breast health concerns. Dr. Tasha provides practical advice on how often and how to perform a proper breast examination. As with many areas of health, lifestyle choices are crucial for maintaining breast health. This might make you think twice before drinking that glass of wine!   Date of episode recording: 2025-01-22T00:00:00Z Duration: 00.53.08 Language of episode: English Presenter:Professor Joyce Harper Guests: Dr Tasha Gandamihardja Producer: Joyce Harper

    53 min

  7. JAN 22

    Season 3 #E2: Dr Aziza Sesay: Understanding the vagina, vulva and cervix

    Dr. Aziza Sesay is a GP, GP educator, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer, Host, Speaker and a well-regarded health content creator. Aziza is particularly noted for her work in health education, awareness, advocacy, and empowerment through her platform, "Talks with Dr. Sesay." This platform shares evidence-based health information, with a focus on women's health, cancer awareness, mental health, and health inequity. Aziza has been a GP for the last 10 years. She is the Vice Chair and Creative Director of Black Female Doctors UK and serves as an Ambassador for multiple health charities, including The Eve Appeal, Wellbeing of Women, FSRH, Hatfield Vision and Keep it Fax. Aziza is regularly featured in the media such as on BBC News, The Guardian, and Women's Health UK. She has played a pivotal role in several national public health campaigns. Her commitment to improving health outcomes and addressing health inequities has earned her recognition and respect including receiving a Point of Light Award. Instagram: @talkswithdrsesay YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYTBJMSf_g-2h0kcmkFjCgQ  It’s no surprise that misconceptions about the vulva, vagina, and cervix are so common, given how basic and limited education on these topics is in schools. The word vulva is still frowned upon by many, treated as if it’s inappropriate or taboo. This needs to change. In this discussion, Aziza explains the anatomy of the vulva, vagina, and cervix, covering what they look like, their functions, what can go wrong, and how to keep them healthy. Did you know women actually have seven openings in the genital area? These include the urethra, vagina, anus, and four openings from glands that secrete fluids. Aziza highlights the importance of understanding the "4 Ps": protection, passageway, pleasure, and policing. And yes, let’s make full use of the 10,000 nerve endings in the vulva designed for pleasure! We also tackle the problems with porn, particularly its portrayal of unrealistic vulvas, which can distort perceptions. Aziza dives into the vaginal microbiome, the implications of genital surgery, and how these structures change throughout the menstrual cycle and across life stages, from puberty to menopause. Throughout her career, Aziza has been asked countless questions about these topics—it’s time everyone truly understands their reproductive anatomy.   Date of episode recording: 2025-01-20T00:00:00Z Duration: 01.17.39 Language of episode: English Presenter:Professor Joyce Harper Guests: Dr Aziza Sesay Producer: Joyce Harper

    1h 18m

  8. JAN 8

    S3 #E1 Professor Joyce Harper: Nurturing your good health and happiness

    In this episode, Joyce shares that her podcast is now listened to in over 90 countries. She reflects on the highlights from 2024, including the launch of a mini-series featuring episodes on Motherhood, Embracing life post menopause, and Beyond the Bleed: Exploring Menstrual Health. She has some incredible guests lined up for 2025. And thanks to Dave Krysko for creating the new podcast music. On the very first episode of Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This?, Joyce revealed that her advice to her younger self would have been to beat her sugar addiction and spend more time being still. Fast forward to today, and she shares her triumph—nearly five months without eating chocolate, cakes, biscuits, sweets, or pastries. Joyce reflects on how challenging this is in today’s society and discusses why breaking these habits is so important. She also recounts her attempts at silent days in 2024, admitting they weren’t a total success but is a work in progress for 2025. Joyce has been hard at work on her upcoming book, which she hopes will empower women to live their best lives. She provides a sneak peek into the chapters on health and happiness, including the development of her Wheel of Health and Happiness. This framework, which she has shared in her blogs, will also feature in the retreats she is organizing in Brighton and the South of France. In this episode, Joyce also delves into her ongoing projects, including the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration, the InTune menopause education and support program, and her work with the SwimHer team, focusing on cold-water swimming and women’s health. She also highlights her research into menstrual health. Now an ambassador for Wellbeing of Women, Joyce looks forward to collaborating with the WoW team in 2025. On a more personal note, Joyce opens up about her twins leaving home, how her campervan has transformed her life, navigating her financial challenges, and her journey to find love. She also shares how creating a vision board has profoundly impacted her life. Joyce has been writing blogs on many of the topics discussed in this episode, which can be found on her Global Women Connected section of her website. In 2025, she is relaunching her newsletters, which you can sign up for at www.joyceharper.com.   Date of episode recording: 2025-01-05T00:00:00Z Duration: 00.51.31 Language of episode: English Presenter: Professor Joyce Harper Guests: Professor Joyce Harper Producer: Joyce Harper

    52 min
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    About

    Welcome to season 2 of the podcast - Why didn’t anyone tell me this? This podcast is about health education with an emphasis on reproductive health. We do not cover these topics enough in school or beyond. Joyce Harper and her guests want to give you the tools to empower you to live a healthy, happy and fulfilled life. And on the way, we will debunk some of the myths around our health. This podcast will include a wide range of amazing guests, discussing topics such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental health, happiness, cancer, periods, fertility, infertility, fertility treatment, preconception health, pregnancy, miscarriage, PCOS, endometriosis, menopause and much more. Joyce is a cold-water swimmer so expect some episodes about swimming! They will tell you about their work and life journey, what are the key messages they want you to know, their motivation, what makes them happy and their advice to their younger self. Joyce Harper is an award-winning author, educator, academic, and scientist with over 30 years’ experience in reproductive health. She is Professor of Reproductive Science at the Institute for Women’s Health at University College London where she heads the Reproductive Science and Society group. Her latest book, Your Fertile Years, is published by Sheldon Press, 2021. She is chair of the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration (www.eshre.eu/IRHEC) and co-chair of the UK Fertility Education Initiative. She is founder of Reproductive Health at Work. Further information at www.joyceharper.com.

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