I got a random Evite invitation--and I'm not sure how. I opened up the email to find that I have been invited to the At Your Cervix Benefit Party! It's sponsored by the Smitten Kitten, "a progressive adult sex toys and equipment retailer." First, I wondered what exactly an "at your cervix party" was; and second, if having a cervix would be important part of participating.
It turns out that At Your Cervix is a documentary showing the problematic ways that medical schools teach (or don't) how to do cervical exams. Not having a cervix, I can't speak directly to the experience of having a bad or even normal cervical exam, but I'm told they can be no picnic in the park. And yet, cervical exams are a common and key part of women's medical experiences. They are something that you want done right.
One of the things the film looks at is the way that some schools allegedly cut corners, or at least smooth the corners over, when it comes to getting consent from patients to be used as practice subjects for future doctors and nurses. I have a friend who used to volunteer for this practice. I think she got paid a small stipend, but probably nothing that made it worthwhile in itself to have strangers of unknown skill give her pelvic exams. She saw it as a way to do her part in helping women receive good care down the road. Apparently, some schools don't hire subjects, but make students be the subjects themselves.
Here's a short clip:
I don't think I'm able to go to the party, but it looks like interesting event. The film is scheduled to come out this fall.
