Meet Rachel E. Gross, science journalist and author of Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage. In this first part of a two–part conversation, Rachel shares how her personal experience with bacterial vaginosis inspired her to write a book that investigates what we know about different parts of female anatomy and how that knowledge (and lack thereof) has been developed. Vagina Obscura is Tammy’s favorite read of the year! Rachel highlights the often-overlooked clitoris and vagina, exploring how these body parts are still unfamiliar or awkward for many, including healthcare professionals. We also delve into the systemic marginalization of female and LGBTQ+ voices in science, and how this has influenced society’s understanding of the female sexual and reproductive system. Our discussion covers topics like vaginal pH balance and why it varies across different racial groups, and the use of boric acid—a common rat poison—as a treatment for bacterial vaginosis. Rachel also shares the story behind her book’s title, Vagina Obscura.

Part two of the episode with Rachel is all about the clitoris. Stay tuned!

Check out the transcript of the episode.

Guest Bio 

Rachel Gross has been a science reporter for over 10 years, determined to share educational resources and information with the public. Rachel’s work has been published in The New York Times, The Guardian, BBC Future, National Geographic, and more. Rachel is also the author of Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage, a novel dedicated to re-mapping the female body based on meticulous research and exploration. Rachel is a committed sexual health educator, having lectured at various organizations and top universities in the nation.  

Links:

• Check out Rachel Gross’s website 

• Connect with Rachel Gross on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram 

• Rachel’s book: Vagina Obscura: An Anatomical Voyage 

CAPTC related training and resources: 

• S3 E13: Centering Pleasure, Problems, and Pride in Sexual Healthcare with Jenn Rogers & Bryce Furness 

• S4 E8: Intimacy Starts with I: Women, Self-Love, and HIV with Michelle Lopez 

• Taking a Sexual Health History 

• Sexual Health Educator Training Program 

Have any questions, concerns, or love letters? Send us a message on Instagram @comingtogetherpod or email us at captc@ucsf.edu.

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