Ep. 76 Road to Repro Rights: Buck v Bell

Ep. 76 Road to Repro Rights: Buck v Bell

From From Skirts To Scrubs by Charlotte Thill and Alesha Kotian

March 17, 2026 · 34 min

About this episode

The episode examines the Buck v. Bell ruling and its impact on reproductive rights and forced sterilization in the U.S.

In this next episode of our series, “Road to Repro Rights”, we examine Buck v. Bell, one of the most consequential and troubling rulings in the history of reproductive rights in the United States. The episode explores how the early 20th-century Eugenics Movement influenced public policy and medicine, leading to laws that allowed the forced sterilization of people labeled “unfit.” Through the story of Carrie Buck, the hosts discuss how the Supreme Court’s decision upheld these terrible practices and paved the way for widespread sterilization programs across the country. The conversation also reflects on the lasting legacy of this history and why understanding it remains essential for modern discussions about reproductive healthcare, informed consent, and patient autonomy. Join the From Skirts To Scrubs community and meet us at the intersection of feminism, medicine, and history! Follow us on socials: Instagram: @fromskirtstoscrubs Facebook: @fromskirtstoscrubs TikTok: @fromskirtstoscrubs Twitter: @FSTS_Podcast Youtube: @fromskirtstoscrubs

People in this episode

Hosts: Charlotte Thill, Alesha Kotian

Topics covered

  • reproductive rights
  • Eugenics Movement
  • forced sterilization
  • Supreme Court decisions
  • patient autonomy
  • informed consent

Keywords

  • Buck v. Bell
  • reproductive rights
  • Eugenics
  • forced sterilization
  • Supreme Court
  • patient autonomy
  • informed consent

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Supreme Court, Eugenics Movement

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