Project Proposal: Rutgers Fertility Week: A Creative Intervention Event to Increase Awareness at Rutgers University
"Rutgers Fertility Week" is a research- backed project proposal for an annual event designed to educate students on fertility and reproductive health through a series of interactive lectures and activities. The week will feature various sessions, such as "Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle" and "Food that Feeds Your Fertility," aimed at providing practical knowledge and real-life applications for students. The event will collaborate with organizations like Wellena, offering insights into hormonal balance and fertility. A budget of $15,000-17,000 will cover essential expenses, including venue bookings and refreshments. The initiative seeks to address knowledge gaps in fertility education, promote informed decision-making regarding reproductive health, and foster community engagement.
The Need for Men's Fertility Awareness in Young People (Upcoming)
​The Hormonal Podcast​ talks about the various accounts of misinterpretation, or lack of knowledge that exists in reproductive health pertaining to fertility. For far too long, hormones have remained misunderstood, unexplored, and absent when speaking about topics such as fertility, family planning, and contraception. In this podcast, Zarah Khondoker combines historical references, media representation, and personal accounts when highlighting the multitude of hormones and their role in reproductive health. No
Art Or Science? The Fertility Conversation & Baby-Making (Upcoming)
​The Hormonal Podcast​ talks about the various accounts of misinterpretation, or lack of knowledge that exists in reproductive health pertaining to fertility. For far too long, hormones have remained misunderstood, unexplored, and absent when speaking about topics such as fertility, family planning, and contraception. In this podcast, Zarah Khondoker combines historical references, media representation, and personal accounts when highlighting the multitude of hormones and their role in reproductive health. No
"Menstruation Without Representation: The Lack of Hormonal Representation in Menstruation" (Upcoming)
​The Hormonal Podcast​ talks about the various accounts of misinterpretation, or lack of knowledge that exists in reproductive health pertaining to fertility. For far too long, hormones have remained misunderstood, unexplored, and absent when speaking about topics such as fertility, family planning, and contraception. In this podcast, Zarah Khondoker combines historical references, media representation, and personal accounts when highlighting the multitude of hormones and their role in reproductive health. No
"Through Their Eyes: The Evolution of Our View of Menstruation" Featured in Go Aunt Flow's The Periodical
Throughout my upbringing, menstruation was often shrouded in silence and stigma, particularly in conversations with my father. However, during a trip to Bangladesh, a significant shift occurred when my dad openly announced my sister’s first period to our entire family, marking a pivotal moment in how we approached menstrual health. This experience highlighted the profound impact that open dialogue can have in dismantling long-standing taboos surrounding reproductive health. By fostering these conversations, we can promote a more informed and supportive environment, contributing to the broader understanding and acceptance of menstrual health across generations.
The Estrobolome: Estrogen, The Gut Microbiome, and The Impacts on Reproductive Health Disorders for RWJ Women's Health Institute
In "The Estrobolome: Estrogen, The Gut Microbiome, and The Impacts on Reproductive Health Disorders," I discuss the significant relationship between the gut microbiome and estrogen levels, particularly regarding reproductive health. The article explains how the microbiome, influenced by genetics and environment, regulates estrogen through the estrobolome, a collection of microbes that produce the enzyme β-glucuronidase. This enzyme activates estrogens, affecting various bodily functions. three types of estrogen—estrone, estradiol, and estriol—and their roles in women's health. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the microbiome, can lead to hormonal disruptions associated with reproductive disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and estrogen-related cancers. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy microbiome through dietary and lifestyle choices to support balanced estrogen levels and reduce the risk of reproductive health issues.
Never Been to the Gynecologist, Like Ever? Featured in Momotaro Apotheca
"Never Been to the Gynecologist, Like Ever?" addresses the anxieties many young individuals face regarding their first visit to the gynecologist, aiming to demystify the experience and encourage proactive health care. It begins by reassuring readers that this initial appointment is primarily focused on getting to know their medical history and establishing a rapport with the gynecologist. The visit typically includes a general physical exam, which may involve an external or internal examination, but these procedures are routine and part of overall wellness checks. It emphasizes the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, urging individuals to discuss various aspects of their lives—such as periods, sexual health, and mental well-being—to receive tailored care. Preparing for the visit is also highlighted, with recommendations to compile questions and gather family medical history to enhance the dialogue during the appointment.