7 Domains of Women's Health

Where you live—and what surrounds you—can quietly shape your family planning journey long before you ever step into a clinic. From the air you breathe to the health care systems within driving distance, your environment plays a powerful and often underestimated role in fertility, contraception, and pregnancy outcomes. In the environmental domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, explore how both biological and geographic environments influence reproductive health. Joined by urologist Kelli Gross, MD, the conversation examines male fertility, environmental toxins, air pollution, lifestyle factors, and the growing questions around sperm health. In the second half, David Turok, MD, discusses how geography, provider training, and access barriers shape contraceptive options—particularly in rural and frontier communities.

Informed family planning can influence life trajectories. Historically, children were considered economic assets: laborers, caregivers in old age, and contributors to survival in agricultural societies. But as industrialization reshaped society, survival no longer depended on large families, and financial realities shifted, making family planning a key determinant of long-term economic stability. In the financial domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, are joined by Shireen Ghorbani, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Utah, to discuss how economic factors influence reproductive choices and outcomes. The conversation highlights the critical role of education, intention, and access in ensuring that individuals can have children when—and if—they choose. Whether contraception or infertility support, financial foresight and accessible health care can empower individuals to shape their futures.

For decades, contraception and family planning have been shaped by scientific discovery—but also by misinformation, flawed research, and cultural narratives that refuse to die. In recent years, social media has amplified debunked claims about hormones, attraction, and birth control, influencing how people think about family planning despite a lack of credible evidence. In the intellectual domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, examine how we come to "know" what we believe about reproduction, contraception, and choice. Drawing on history, ethics, and Katie's own deep dive into evolutionary science, the conversation unpacks how research evolves, why bad science sometimes sticks, and how misinformation gains traction.

Decisions about family planning rarely happen in isolation. In the U.S., access to contraception, fertility care, and pregnancy-related services is shaped not only by individual choice, but by partners, families, employers, health care systems, and state policy—factors that can dramatically influence reproductive outcomes. Research consistently shows that social and structural conditions play a defining role in who can plan a pregnancy, delay one, or receive timely care. In the social domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, are joined by Jessica Sanders, PhD, assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of Research at the ASCENT Center for Reproductive Health. Together, they explore how family planning decisions are shaped by layers of influence—from intimate partner dynamics and community access to poverty, misinformation, and shifting laws. The conversation examines how social forces enter even the most private decisions, and why understanding these pressures is essential for supporting truly informed, equitable reproductive care.

Family planning may sound like a logical process—timelines, contraceptive options, fertility planning, spreadsheets of pros and cons—but for most people, the emotional weight far outweighs the math. Fear, hope, excitement, shame, relief, grief, joy, and uncertainty often coexist, shaping decisions in ways data alone cannot capture. In the emotional domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, are joined by Annabel Sheinberg, Director of The Turnaway Project, to examine the deeply human side of reproductive decision-making. Together, they explore the emotional complexity behind contraception, abortion, infertility, and adolescent reproductive choices. They discuss the emotional nuances of adolescent confidentiality, the reality that multiple conflicting feelings can be true at once, and how people navigate some of life's most personal decisions.

Nearly half of all pregnancies in the U.S. are unplanned. Physically preparing for or preventing pregnancy is a central part of family planning, but what that looks like varies widely from person to person. In the physical domain of family planning, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, open the seven-episode series by breaking down what "family planning" truly means. They explore the physical health factors that influence fertility, the medical considerations for preparing the body for pregnancy, and the full spectrum of contraceptive methods designed to prevent it. Reproductive needs shift across different phases of life; every individual's reproductive life plan is unique, and people can begin shaping a plan that reflects their goals, values, and physical health.

Strong friendships have been shown to reduce loneliness, improve emotional resilience, and even buffer the effects of grief and stress. In moments of birth, loss, illness, and major life transitions, certain friendships take on a deeper, almost sacred role—offering grounding, presence, and meaning when it is needed most. In the spiritual domain of friendships, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, are joined by Chaplain Susie Nelsen. Together, they explore the friendships that accompany us through profound transitions, the companions who help us make sense of loss and identity, and the rare “spiritual friends” with whom we can speak openly about purpose, belief, and meaning.

The spaces we live in—our neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and even digital worlds—shape not only how we live, but who we know. Environments create or constrain opportunities for connection, and over time, they influence the kinds of friendships we build. In the environmental domain of friendships, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, explore how geography, mobility, and social infrastructure influence our ability to form and sustain friendships. From the “big sort” that clusters us into like-minded communities to the loss of public spaces that once bridged divides, the conversation asks what it means to make—and maintain—connection in an era of separation.

Money can strengthen a friendship—or quietly strain it. Whether it is splitting a dinner bill, planning a trip, or navigating big differences in income, finances often bring unspoken tension into even the strongest relationships. In the financial domain of friendships, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, explore how money influences connection, power dynamics, and trust between friends. They discuss why financial transparency can feel taboo, how generational attitudes toward lending differ, and what happens when income or life stages diverge among friends.

Friendship does not just enrich our emotions—it shapes how we think. Studies show that intellectually engaging conversations with friends can improve cognitive flexibility, creativity, and even long-term brain health. Yet in an age of constant scrolling and algorithm-driven feeds, genuine intellectual exchange is becoming increasingly rare. In the intellectual domain of friendships, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, explore how true friends challenge our ideas, expand our perspectives, and make us think in new ways. From bonds formed through shared learning to the role of disagreement in deepening connection, they talk about the transformative power of intellectual curiosity between friends—and what we lose when technology replaces real dialogue.

Friendship is central to human connection. Yet, the ways we form, maintain, and redefine friendships evolve throughout life. From imaginary friends in childhood to the deep bonds of adulthood, our social connections shape who we are and how we navigate the world. But what happens when friendships drift apart—or when digital and artificial “friendships” blur the lines of real connection? In the social domain of friendship, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, explore how friendships develop, change, and endure across the lifespan. They discuss the neuroscience of social bonding, the effects of modern technology and social media, and why genuine reciprocity remains the foundation of meaningful relationships.

Friendship is one of the most powerful regulators of emotion—shaping how we love, grieve, connect, and heal. Strong social ties can reduce anxiety, strengthen emotional resilience, and even increase life expectancy. Yet the ways we express and sustain those bonds often differ across gender, life stage, and circumstance. Scot Singpiel and Mitch Sears—co-hosts of Who Cares About Men's Health—join Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, in the emotional domain of friendships for a conversation about the emotional layers of human connection. They explore how emotional openness and the courage to be vulnerable shape the friendships that sustain us.

When friends connect, the body responds in powerful ways. Research shows that close social bonds can lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, and even help regulate glucose levels. Studies also reveal that friends' brainwaves, breathing patterns, and heart rates can synchronize during shared experiences. In the physical domain of friendships, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore how our bodies react when we are with friends—from the calming effects of a hug to the contagious nature of laughter and tears. The conversation highlights the biology behind connection and the ways physical presence and touch play a vital role in human well-being.

Across the globe, families welcome newborns with sacred traditions—such as baptism, christening, naming ceremonies, or rituals of blessing—that honor both the child and the family's spiritual journey. At the same time, more than 2 million babies are stillborn each year worldwide, a heartbreaking reality that leaves lasting emotional and spiritual impacts on families. These moments of joy and grief underscore the deep role spirituality plays in the postpartum experience. Rana Jawish, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry and faculty lead for the Stillbirth Center of Excellence, joins Kirtly Jones, MD, in the spiritual domain of the fourth trimester. They discuss the role of faith and culture in welcoming newborns, and how compassionate care can provide meaning and healing for families navigating profound loss in the fourth trimester.

Only one in four infants in the U.S. is exclusively breastfed for the first six months, despite strong evidence linking breastfeeding to better health outcomes for both mother and baby. Success often depends less on individual determination and more on the environments that shape a mother's daily life—home, workplace, and community. Lactation specialist Anna Burch, RN, joins Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, in the environmental domain of the fourth trimester to explore how surroundings influence postpartum experiences. The conversation examines what makes an ideal feeding environment at home, the impact of workplace and public space accommodations, and how stressors such as noise, lighting, and privacy can affect milk production. They also discuss the social and cultural pressures that shape breastfeeding journeys, the role of family and community support, and the policies that could create more equitable environments for new parents.

Childcare for an infant in the U.S. averages over $11,000 a year—more than triple the federal benchmark for affordability. For many new parents, the financial strain of the fourth trimester starts before the baby arrives and can extend for years. In the financial domain of the fourth trimester, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, unpack the expenses of welcoming a newborn—from unpaid leave and rising childcare costs to hidden medical bills and the long-term impact on career and retirement savings. The conversation examines disparities in access to resources, the role of social safety nets, and practical ways families can prepare and adapt.

More than 80% of new mothers report changes in memory and attention during the postpartum period—often referred to as “mom brain.” On top of that, the average new parent manages over 100 daily tasks related to their baby's care, contributing to what researchers call the “maternal mental load.” In the intellectual domain of the fourth trimester, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore how new parents cognitively adapt after childbirth. Perinatal mental health specialist Jamie Hales joins the conversation to unpack the neurological and intellectual shifts that shape early parenthood. From navigating the cognitive overload of caregiving to reshaping personal identity, the discussion offers insight into how people make meaning of their birth experiences and mentally transition into their new roles.

More than half of new mothers report feeling lonely or isolated after giving birth. Research shows that strong social support during the postpartum period is one of the most protective factors against perinatal depression. Gwen Latendresse, PhD—a certified nurse midwife and perinatal mental health researcher—joins Katie Ward, DNP, in the social domain of the fourth trimester to explore how social connection shapes postpartum recovery. From family and peer support to community care and digital interventions, they examine how a person's social environment can either buffer or intensify the emotional demands of new parenthood.

Up to 80% of new mothers experience “baby blues” within the first two weeks after birth, and an estimated 15–20% go on to develop more serious conditions such as perinatal depression or anxiety. These emotional shifts stem not only from major life changes, but also from the dramatic hormonal drop that occurs after delivery—as the brain begins recalibrating for the demands of caregiving. Perinatal mental health expert Lauren Gimbel, MD, joins Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, in the emotional domain of the fourth trimester to explore how hormones, neurobiology, and human evolution shape early parenting. The conversation delves into maternal-newborn bonding, postpartum mood disorders, and why identifying emotional distress in new mothers is critical for the health of the entire family.

Pregnancy does not end at birth—the body continues to recover and readjust for at least three more months, a period that can be referred to as the "fourth trimester." While the typical pregnancy lasts about nine months, it takes roughly a full year—including postpartum recovery—for the body to reach a new state of equilibrium. In the physical domain of the fourth trimester, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore the physiologic changes that occur after childbirth. From shifting hormones to healing tissues and resetting body systems, they discuss what truly happens in the months following delivery—and why some changes may be lifelong. The fourth trimester reframes recovery as a vital part of the pregnancy timeline, not a footnote to it.

Nearly one in four women in the U.S. does not receive recommended cervical cancer screening, and for some, faith and cultural beliefs play a significant role in that decision. In communities where modesty, chastity, and the sacredness of the body are emphasized—such as among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—reproductive health care can carry added spiritual weight. Rosemary Card joins Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, in the spiritual domain of Pap smears to explore how LDS values influence women's experiences with gynecological care. From premarital exams to evolving conversations around reproductive health, they reflect on how faith traditions can both complicate and support access to care.

Roughly 90% of cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), yet not everyone exposed to the virus develops disease—why? The answer lies partly in the body's environment. From immune health to smoking habits and hormonal exposure, the internal conditions HPV encounters play a key role in whether the virus is cleared or progresses to cancer. In the environmental domain of Pap smears, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore how the body's physical environment influences HPV infection and cervical cancer risk. They break down how smoking, immune suppression, birth control use, and even early-life exposures shape the body's response to the virus.

Pap smears and HPV tests are among the most cost-effective cancer screenings available—widely covered by insurance and often offered for free through local clinics. Yet despite their low cost, follow-up care like colposcopy remains a significant financial barrier, particularly for uninsured or underserved women. In the financial domain of Pap smears, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, unpack why cost remains a concern—even when initial screening is free. The conversation also highlights resources available to help women navigate the financial side of cervical cancer prevention.

Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of cancer-related death among American women, but since the mid-1970s, mortality rates have dropped by more than half—thanks to advances in prevention and early detection. The Pap smear, first introduced in the 1940s, remains one of the most effective tools in cancer prevention, built on decades of evolving science and research. In the intellectual domain of Pap smears, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore what we know—and how we came to know it—about cervical cancer screening. They trace the history and ethics of modern guidelines, spotlight lesser-known figures behind key discoveries, and reflect on the knowledge that continues to shape patient care today.

Only about 54% of adolescents in the U.S. are up to date on the HPV vaccine—even though it protects against more than 90% of cervical cancers. Social stigma and misinformation around the vaccine, often linked to its association with sexual activity, remain key barriers to access and acceptance. Deanna Kepka, PhD, MPH—investigator at Huntsman Cancer Institute and expert in cancer prevention research—joins Katie Ward, DNP, in the social domain of Pap smears to explore how family, community, and cultural dynamics shape cervical cancer prevention. From the role of parents, peers, and health care providers to the influence of social media and gendered messaging, the conversation examines what it takes to build trust and encourage preventive care.

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable, yet screening rates remain below target—only about 70% of women in the U.S. are up to date on their Pap tests. Despite their life-saving potential, Pap exams can stir up complex and deeply personal emotions—ranging from fear and shame to anger, anxiety, and even relief. In the emotional domain of Pap smears, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, share clinical and personal experiences that highlight the emotional weight of pelvic exams. From language discomfort to patient modesty, from navigating trauma to delivering HPV results, they explore how these screenings are often shaped as much by emotion as by medical protocol.

Each year, about 14,000 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed in the U.S., but thanks to Pap smears, deaths from the disease have dropped significantly over the past few decades. The test, which screens for precancerous changes, has transformed alongside advances in technology. Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, examine the physical domain of Pap smears—from the test's evolution and its role in detecting precancerous changes to what happens during the procedure. They address common concerns, modern advancements in screening, and ways to make the process more comfortable.

Every known culture, past and present, has a spiritual tradition. From ancient burial practices to Aboriginal cave drawings, the human inclination to seek meaning beyond the tangible world has existed for tens of thousands of years. But what does it mean to be a spiritual explorer? In the spiritual domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, are joined by Rev. Lorie Nielson to examine the personal and universal nature of spiritual exploration. They discuss how spirituality evolves across a lifetime, from childhood curiosity to moments of crisis, and how different life transitions can prompt deeper reflection.

For as long as humans have explored, we have left our mark on the environment—for better or worse. From the disappearance of prehistoric animals to the mountains of trash left behind on Everest, our drive to discover new places has always had consequences. In the environmental domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, examine the complex relationship between human curiosity and the natural world, reflecting on both its unintended harms and its role in conservation. They discuss the impact of travel, the ethics of adventure, and the importance of mindful exploration. Whether journeying to remote destinations or finding wonder in familiar landscapes, this conversation considers how discovery and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Exploring new experiences can be enriching, but it often comes with a financial cost. Studies show people who invest in experiences rather than material things tend to have greater life satisfaction. However, whether traveling to a new destination, picking up a hobby, or pursuing further education, thoughtful financial planning is essential to keep these pursuits enjoyable rather than stressful. In the financial domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, are joined by Elsa Osborne, an accredited financial counselor and program coordinator at University of Utah's Financial Wellness Center. Together, they discuss the cost of pursuing new explorations, budgeting wisely, and making financially sound decisions without sacrificing a sense of adventure.

Lifelong learning is not just a hobby—it is a key predictor of cognitive health and overall well-being. Studies show intellectual exploration, whether through learning a new recipe, picking up a hobby, or diving into history and technology, keeps the brain engaged and fuels innovation, creativity, and personal renewal. But what makes someone an intellectual explorer, and how do curiosity, risk-taking, and novelty-seeking shape the way we learn? In the intellectual domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, share personal stories of intellectual discovery and discuss how embracing new ideas, skills, and experiences can enrich our lives at any stage. They explore the ways intellectual exploration shapes our personal growth and why it is never too late to embrace the joy of learning something new.

Social exploration can profoundly enrich our lives, with research showing that strong social connections contribute to improved mental health, greater happiness, and even increased longevity. For many, stepping outside their comfort zone to engage with others leads to meaningful relationships and personal growth. In the social domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, are joined by Sarah Robertson, RN, to share stories about how social exploration has shaped their lives. The conversation highlights the power of forging friendships, learning from one another, and how social exploration can serve as a remedy for isolation and loneliness.

Exploration is not just about physical adventure; it is deeply tied to our emotional well-being. Studies show that novelty-seeking behaviors, often linked with exploration, can enhance creativity, resilience, and overall life satisfaction. But what distinguishes healthy exploration from mere thrill-seeking, and how do our emotions, fears, and hesitations influence this journey? In the emotional domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, are joined by Steve Boyer, MD, to examine the emotional aspects of exploration. They discuss the unique mental benefits of embracing new experiences, how emotional barriers can hinder adventurous pursuits, and the ways emotional exploration can offer a meaningful outlet when physical exploration is no longer possible.

Travel and physical exploration can boost your health, but nearly 50% of travelers experience health issues, ranging from minor ailments to more serious complications. Preparing for new adventures—whether heading to a distant destination or trying a new activity—requires thoughtful planning to ensure a safe and enriching experience. In the physical domain of exploring, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, are joined by Terri Sofarelli, PA-C, a physician assistant specializing in infectious disease and travel medicine at University of Utah Health. Together, they discuss how to prepare your body and mind for exploration, the influence of technology and social media on our experiences, and practical tips for staying safe and healthy while embracing the joys of discovering the world and beyond.

The spiritual aspect of stress often comes to the forefront during times of uncertainty or crisis. In these moments, questions of meaning, faith, and resilience can weigh heavily on individuals and families. Spiritual stress does not just affect the mind—it can deeply impact the body and soul, especially in hospital or medical settings where the stakes are high. Rev. David Wolfer, BCC, joins this episode on the spiritual domain of stress to explore how spirituality intersects with stress in health care environments. The conversation explores the importance of finding meaning during difficult times, how faith and connection to something greater than ourselves can provide solace, and the role of spiritual care in fostering hope and emotional strength.

Environmental stress is a two-way street: we stress the environment, and the environment stresses us. Factors such as air pollution, water quality, and climate change can significantly affect our physical and mental health, contributing to chronic stress and severe illnesses. For those already facing health challenges, these environmental stressors can further impact recovery and overall well-being. Ann Deneris joins the conversation to share her personal story of how environmental factors play a key role in her fight against lung cancer. The discussion explores the complex relationship between humans and the environment, the effects of environmental stressors, and practical strategies to mitigate their harmful impact.

Financial stress is a significant and widespread issue, with profound implications for individuals and families. In the United States, nearly 4 in 10 Americans cannot cover an unexpected $400 expense without going into debt, and 1 in 5 have no emergency savings. For women, the financial picture is often even more precarious, with median savings of just $500 compared to $1,000 for men. Loans, credit card debt, and rising expenses are major contributors to this growing burden, particularly for younger generations navigating a volatile financial landscape. In the financial domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, discuss the pervasive nature of financial stress and its impact on individuals, couples, and families. They explore the unique challenges women face in achieving financial stability, how debt can spiral out of control, and share practical advice for breaking free from financial stress and avoiding future pitfalls.

Pursuing education can be both a source of stress and a pathway to reduced stress in the long run. While the demands of earning a degree—especially an advanced one—can often lead to stress and burnout, individuals with higher education typically experience less stress over time due to greater financial stability. However, intellectual stress is not limited to education; it also includes recognizing stressors unique to each person's mental and cognitive challenges. In the intellectual domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore how education impacts stress levels, the distinct intellectual stressors faced by women and men, and how overthinking stress can worsen its effect. They also discuss how to differentiate between stressors we can and cannot control and share strategies—both positive and negative—for managing intellectual stress and fostering a healthier mindset.

Stress is not just a personal experience—it is deeply influenced by our social environments and roles. From the circumstances we are born into to the ones we actively choose, social stressors shape how we navigate the world. Social media and news media further amplify these pressures, often fueling stress with a constant stream of information and societal comparisons. In the social domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore the complex relationship between social structures and stress. They discuss the collective stress faced by communities and how these shared challenges intersect with personal stress. By understanding these dynamics, we can better navigate and address the social factors that impact our well-being.

Many of us have experienced being "stressed out," but what does that really mean, and how does it impact our emotional well-being? Stress can be immediate—a response to a single challenging event—or it can be chronic, lingering over time and leading to deeper issues like anxiety and even depression. The line between stress and anxiety is often thin, with chronic stress intensifying emotional strain. When left unaddressed, this emotional burden can impact physical health, leading to symptoms like sleeplessness, overeating, or loss of appetite. In the emotional domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore the link between emotional health and stress, offering strategies to manage stressors within our control and develop healthier responses to support overall well-being.

Stress is a natural response in our bodies, but when experienced chronically, it can take a serious toll on physical health. When faced with a stressor—whether it is a challenging work situation or a sudden loud noise—our bodies release hormones that heighten alertness and prepare us for action. However, chronic stress can lead to health concerns such as headaches, muscle tension, high blood pressure, heart disease, digestive issues, and insomnia, significantly impacting well-being. In the physical domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, discuss the body's instinctual response to stressors and how we are wired to react. They share practical strategies to manage both external stressors and our internal responses to maintain a healthy mind and body.

Cultures and individuals alike often develop deep spiritual connections to certain items throughout their lives. Across various societies, these spiritual attachments to material objects reflect beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Yet, when we pass away, it is often said that none of the physical possessions we have accumulated can come with us. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom or items symbolizing a connection to the afterlife, these objects can carry significant meaning. Cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner joins the spiritual domain of stuff to discuss what we leave behind versus what we take with us spiritually.