Curiosity Weekly: Women In Science & The Future of Male Contraception
Release Date: March 19, 2025
Host: Dr. Samantha Yammine
Platform: Discovery
Introduction
In the March 19, 2025, episode of Curiosity Weekly, host Dr. Samantha Yammine delves into two pivotal topics: the recognition of women in science and the innovative strides in male contraception. This comprehensive episode not only highlights the often-overlooked contributions of female scientists but also explores groundbreaking developments aimed at sharing the responsibilities of reproductive health between genders.
Preserving the Legacy of Women in Science
Acknowledging Overlooked Contributions
Dr. Yammine begins by addressing the historical bias in scientific research and recognition, highlighting a significant policy shift by the NIH in 1993 to include women and minorities in funded studies. Despite this progress, she emphasizes that many female scientists remain unacknowledged.
Dr. Samantha Ameen (00:34):
"Before that, most studies focused almost entirely on men. So for Women's History Month, we're talking about how far we've come and how much further we need to go."
Interview with Katie Haffner
The episode features Katie Haffner, founder of the Lost Women in Science podcast and platform, who discusses the importance of uncovering and preserving the legacies of female scientists whose contributions have been historically marginalized.
Katie Haffner (01:10):
"For every Marie Curie or Rosalind Franklin out there whose story we know, there are probably thousands more whose stories we don't know and who, for whatever reason, time and place and gender, were shortchanged."
(Timestamp: 01:10)
The Matilda Effect and Historical Erasure
Haffner elaborates on the Matilda Effect, a bias where women's scientific contributions are often overshadowed by their male counterparts. She recounts the story of Dorothy Anderson, a pathologist who identified and named cystic fibrosis in the 1930s but received little recognition for her work.
Katie Haffner (08:59):
"Our season on Dorothy Anderson really went a long way toward correcting the historical record."
(Timestamp: 08:59)
Lost Women in Science Initiatives
Haffner details the initiatives taken by Lost Women in Science, including their extensive database of over 530 women scientists, book series for middle schoolers, and efforts to update and correct Wikipedia pages to ensure accurate representation.
Katie Haffner (07:55):
"We have a database of about 530 women, all of whom are deceased and have done amazing science and gotten very little recognition for what they did."
(Timestamp: 07:55)
Haffner also shares listener engagement strategies, such as a hotline that allows people to report forgotten women scientists, fostering community involvement in rediscovering and honoring these figures.
Katie Haffner (15:51):
"You can also write to us on our website. But we get a lot of our stories that way."
(Timestamp: 15:51)
Advice for Aspiring Women in STEM
Haffner offers advice to young women aspiring to enter STEM fields, emphasizing curiosity and an open mind as essential traits for scientific inquiry and innovation.
Katie Haffner (17:58):
"Do what a scientist must do, which is be curious, you know, be open, have an open mind."
(Timestamp: 17:58)
The Future of Male Contraception
Transitioning from historical recognition, Dr. Yammine and producer Teresa Carey explore the emerging field of male contraception, highlighting the role of women scientists in this transformative area.
Current Developments in Male Contraceptives
Carey outlines two main developments:
-
NEST Gel (Neste Male Contraceptive Gel)
- Dr. Stephanie Page from the University of Washington is developing a hormonal gel applied daily to the shoulders, containing Nesterone to suppress sperm production and testosterone to maintain hormone balance.
Teresa Carey (20:36):
"So far, early studies suggest that the nest gel is promising, but its real world effectiveness in preventing pregnancy it's still being evaluated."
(Timestamp: 20:36) -
YCT529 Non-Hormonal Pill
- Developed by Dr. Gunda George and researchers at the University of Minnesota, this pill blocks vitamin A in the testes, preventing sperm production. It has shown 99% effectiveness in animal trials and is currently undergoing human trials for safety and efficacy.
Teresa Carey (22:20):
"They've shown to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancy in animal trials."
(Timestamp: 22:20)
Motivations Behind the Research
The discussion delves into the motivations of women scientists leading these projects, emphasizing the pursuit of reproductive equity and shared responsibility.
Dr. Stephanie Page (23:41):
"I am very interested in women continuing to have reproductive agency as a critical component of them being equal citizens in the world."
(Timestamp: 23:41)
Carey highlights how male contraceptives could shift cultural norms, promoting a balanced approach to family planning and alleviating the disproportionate burden on women.
Teresa Carey (24:50):
"Equity is about having more options, but it isn't just about having more options. It's about that shared responsibility."
(Timestamp: 24:50)
Challenges and Public Perception
The episode addresses obstacles such as regulatory approvals and societal acceptance. While early studies indicate a positive willingness among men to adopt new contraceptive methods, skeptics remain concerned about trust and consistent usage.
Katie Haffner (25:30):
"Some males are hesitant, but studies show that a significant number would consider using male contraceptives, especially if they were reversible and low risk."
(Timestamp: 25:30)
Cultural Shifts and Future Outlook
Dr. Yammine reflects on the potential cultural transformations that male contraceptives might engender, advocating for continued support and research to realize a future of shared reproductive responsibilities.
Dr. Samantha Ameen (29:12):
"That's the best part about science. I think I was undervaluing this cultural mindset, this cultural shift, and how just significant that alone can be."
(Timestamp: 29:12)
Conclusion
The episode of Curiosity Weekly bridges the past and future of women's roles in science, celebrating those who paved the way while spotlighting current efforts to redefine reproductive health responsibilities. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, Dr. Yammine underscores the importance of recognition, equity, and innovative science in shaping a more inclusive and balanced world.
Notable Takeaways:
- The Matilda Effect continues to obscure the contributions of many female scientists.
- Initiatives like Lost Women in Science are crucial for preserving the legacies of overlooked women in STEM.
- The development of male contraceptives represents a significant step towards shared reproductive responsibility and gender equity.
- Cultural acceptance and regulatory hurdles remain key challenges in the adoption of new male contraceptive methods.
By highlighting these themes, the episode serves as both a tribute to the women who have shaped science behind the scenes and a beacon for future advancements that promote equality and shared accountability in reproductive health.
Produced by Wheelhouse DNA for Warner Bros. Discovery. Special thanks to Teresa Carey, Chiara Noni, Nick Kharisimi, and Cassie Berman for their contributions.