In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Malcolm "Kip" McKenzie, a retired OBGYN with 35 years of experience with 20 years of focus on treatment of endometriosis, particularly complex surgical management. We discuss the complex and often misunderstood reality of living with endometriosis, which can impact many people’s ability to conceive. Reflecting on the misconceptions surrounding the condition, Kip acknowledges his own past errors in understanding and treatment, highlighting the need for better education and advocacy.

The conversation touches on the relationship between endometriosis and fertility, discussing how outdated views can hinder proper diagnosis and treatment. Kip emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of endometriosis, moving away from myths and towards a more empowering and scientifically grounded paradigm. Kip explains that endometriosis is likely a single embryologic event occurring at six weeks gestation rather than the result of "retrograde menstruation” as doctors have incorrectly hypothesized for the past century. He candidly addresses his past clinical mistakes to highlight how inadequate provider training and medical gaslighting often leave patients feeling traumatized and ignored. To combat these issues, his clinical focus in semi-retirement is on a specialized surgical fellowship designed to teach doctors effective excision techniques for removing the disease entirely.

Beyond training surgeons, Kip is working to elevate patient voices, advocating for improved care and a greater understanding of the condition as a co-founder of The Endometriosis Alliance of Massachusetts (TEAM). TEAM is currently fighting for state legislation that will create a dedicated task force to address the lack of funding, public awareness, and research surrounding this serious condition. This episode serves as both a scientific deep-dive into endometriosis and a call to action for "EndoWarriors" and providers to continue pushing for systemic change in healthcare.

Visit https://allpathsfb.org/ma-advocacy/ to learn how you can advocate for improved care and understanding and find endometriosis resources and patient stories here.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:

Endometriosis, retrograde menstruation, advocacy, The Endometriosis Alliance of Massachusetts (TEAM), endowarriors, psycho-emotional trauma, medical gaslighting, infertility, fertility, excision surgery, self-advocacy, validation, specialized surgical fellowship, patient advocacy, hysterectomy, fertility struggles, family building, women's health, reproductive health, infertility awareness, endo advocacy, chronic pain, gynecological health, emotional support, patient empowerment, surgical treatment, endometriosis education, healthcare provider training, patient experiences, advocacy tools, mental health, hormonal health, pelvic pain, endometriosis community

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