#11: A Short History of the Tampon: Lucy Hope on Bioactive Menstrual Care and the Power of the Vaginal Microbiome

01/09/2025 58 min
#11: A Short History of the Tampon: Lucy Hope on Bioactive Menstrual Care and the Power of the Vaginal Microbiome

Listen "#11: A Short History of the Tampon: Lucy Hope on Bioactive Menstrual Care and the Power of the Vaginal Microbiome"

Episode Synopsis

Send us a textRevolutionising Women’s Health with Lucy Hope: The Future of Vaginal Microbiome CareIn this episode, Judith hosts Lucy Hope, a FemTech founder and health tech innovator on a mission to reimagine women’s health—starting with the vaginal microbiome. Lucy shares the story of her company, Daughters of Mars, which is developing the world’s first bioactive prebiotic tampon designed to support the vaginal ecosystem.The discussion explores the vital role of the vaginal microbiome in immunity, fertility and reproductive health, and how modern life disrupts this ecosystem—leading to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV). Lucy also discusses the history and present-day shortcomings of tampon manufacturing, and introduces safer, science-backed alternatives. The episode covers the potential of lactoferrin and other supplements to enhance both gut and vaginal health.Tune in for a deep dive into women’s health biohacking and the future of menstrual care.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:21 Lucy's Mission in Women’s Health 00:55 Understanding the Vaginal Microbiome 02:43 Impact of Modern Life on Vaginal Health 03:36 Bacterial Vaginosis: Causes and Symptoms 05:39 Innovative Diagnostic Tools 09:23 History and Issues with Tampons 12:07 Tampon Safety and Industry Standards 22:29 Alternatives to Traditional Tampons 29:22 The Benefits of Lactoferrin 32:46 Bovine Lactoferrin: A Game Changer 33:40 Health Benefits of Lactoferrin 35:33 Iron Absorption and Lactoferrin 37:51 Lactoferrin and Women’s Health 41:02 PCOS and Alternative Treatments 48:06 Personal Health Journey and Biohacking 54:47 Alcohol and the Sinclair Method 58:05 Unusual Habits and Personal Interests 01:00:57 Future Projects and Closing RemarksSocial Media LInksWebsite: www.thedaughtersofmars.comInstagram: @thedaughtersofmarsResources Mentioned in This Episode💉 Vaginal Health & ScreeningBV & Vaginal Screening Test by Daye At-home test for BV, thrush, and other vaginal infections. 🔗 yourdaye.com/products/at-home-vaginal-screening📖 The Daughters of Mars A bold, truth-telling project reclaiming the symbolism of Mars through women’s lived experiences — periods, blood, and power. Sign up to the waitlist: 🔗 www.thedaughtersofmars.com🛡️ Immunity & LactoferrinImmuneShield by Virustatic A lactoferrin-based supplement supporting immunity and gut health. 🔗 virustaticshield.com/immuneshield💊 Naltrexone (The Sinclair Method) A prescription-based treatment for alcohol dependence; discussed as part of broader health empowerment. 🔗 sinclairmethoduk.comInsta/TikTok: @BiohackingEveWebsite: www.BiohackingEve.com

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