040: A Sit- Down with Endometriosis Filmmaker Shannon Cohn

Experiencing pain is a part of life. Sadly, for millions of women, pain caused by endometriosis often goes untreated and ignored by doctors. So much so that most have not heard of the diagnosis. This incredibly common condition is underdiagnosed, under treated, and leaves women and girls feeling alone, unheard, and having to endure debilitating pain. But what if their voices could lead to change?  

In this episode, you will learn:

• The societal and medical complexities faced by individuals with endometriosis. 
• Why endometriosis advocacy is a pressing social justice issue. 
• The mother’s tale: genetics, risk, and the echoes of past health movements. 
• Early detection’s potential in school settings and the broader impact on fertility. 
• The vital coalition needed for women’s health advocacy. 
• How personal narratives and medical education reform can create waves of change.  

More about Shannon Cohn:

Shannon Cohn is a filmmaker, lawyer, and social impact producer who has worked across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, & the Americas on topics related to gender equity and combating stigma and taboo. Her films and TV series have aired on PBS, Nat Geo, Discovery Channel, Amazon and Netflix. Her new PBS documentary BELOW THE BELT, executive produced by Hillary Clinton and Rosario Dawson, approaches endometriosis as a social justice issue. The film is one element of a larger social impact plan to create meaningful change in endometriosis and women’s health including increased research funding, policy changes, medical education initiatives and widespread awareness.