Bits and Bobs 2024 | The University of Sunderland

Published on 9, October, 2024

Attendee at event station looking at models

Bits and Bobs, the University of Sunderland’s annual adult-only event that explores the anatomy of sex, was back again this year.

Experts from the University of Sunderland and Newcastle University were at the Fire Station in Sunderland City Centre on Monday 7th October to demystify our pelvic and genitourinary anatomy in an open and inclusive space.

Dr Debs Patten, Professor of Anatomy at the University of Sunderland, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people at Bits and Bobs 2024.

"Our staff pulled together an excellent programme of activities, and it was genuinely lovely to see so many people learning and laughing, as they joined in all of the activities.

"We can’t wait to deliver our free World Anatomy Family Day at the Fire Station on Sunday 20^th October 2024. This one is for families and was sold out last year. Do book your tickets if you plan to attend."

This year brought new stations and activities including stations about menopause and perimenopause and the psychology behind sex.

Professor Yitka Graham and Helen McArdle Nursing and Care Research Institute PhD student Robyn Jones ran the Menopause and Menstruation Station.

Professor Graham said: "We were delighted that so many people trusted us and felt comfortable having open conversations about sexual health with us.

"We were able to provide information and where appropriate, signpost to sources of support. We were happy to participate in Bits and Bobs, and are truly looking forward to next year's event."

Robyn added: "We were non-stop from start to finish, with a great range of questions and enquiries from students, staff and the public.

"Topics ranged from pre-menstrual syndrome, contraception in the peri-menopause, what a speculum is and how it is used in vaginal examinations, and hormone replacement therapy for the menopause."

This was part of a series of events to mark World Anatomy Day (Tuesday 15^th October) which honours the work of Andreas Vesalius, who is considered the father of anatomy.

Attendees looking at models

The day celebrates the discipline of anatomy and is used to highlight across the world the importance of anatomy in the training of health care professionals.

Dr Emily Green, Lecturer in Anatomy at Newcastle University, said: “I’m really excited for the Newcastle Anatomy team to be supporting University of Sunderland anatomists with delivering Bits and Bobs again this year.

“The event, now in its third year, is a light-hearted yet educational exploration of an often taboo and mysterious topic - genitourinary and pelvic anatomy.

“Discussing this crucially important topic in a relaxed, professional and judgement-free environment, Bits and Bobs has reached hundreds of members of the public since it was first developed in 2022 by Newcastle anatomists.”

You can join us for our family-friendly World Anatomy event on Sunday 20^th October which is open to all ages and explores how the world of anatomy works. Book your place here.