Mary Jane Minkin, MD

Mary Jane Minkin, MD, is a gynecologist with a special interest in menopause and addressing the sexual health needs of cancer survivors.

Dr. Minkin is also co-director of the Sexuality, Intimacy, and Menopause Program for cancer survivors at Smilow Cancer Hospital, one of the first programs in the United States to provide sexual health services for patients who have lived with cancer. Dr. Minkin emphasizes that a fulfilling sexual life is possible post-cancer. “These are patients who have had their needs ignored for such a long time, and it’s just really gratifying to work with them,” she says.

“I have been incredibly fortunate to have been in medicine for the past 50 years: a time of major advances in women’s health particularly in the fields of menopause and sexual health,” Dr. Minkin says. “Menopause can pose challenges, even for women who are in basically amazingly good health—but we now can offer relief to just about everyone.”

Through her online blog, "Madame Ovary," Dr. Minkin provides insights on menopause and women's health, aiming to dispel myths surrounding sexual health and encourage open dialogue, particularly for cancer survivors. “Please visit MadameOvary.org and press the podcast button. I hope you’ll find some information to help,” she says.

Dr. Minkin has been a clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale School of Medicine for more than four decades. She has been a pioneer in advocating for women's health, especially in the realm of sexual and gynecological health. Her work has challenged outdated perceptions within the field, contributing to its evolving reputation. A Yale School of Medicine graduate, she completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Yale New Haven Hospital.