The Green Room: A Podcast from Obstetrics & Gynecology

In this engaging discussion, Antoinette Allen, a second-year clinical research fellow at UCSF, shares her insights on improving healthcare for women with fibroids. She unpacks recent findings on pregnancy outcomes after laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation compared to myomectomy. The conversation also sheds light on the complexities of pregnancy management post-ablation and the importance of patient education regarding risks and safety. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on advancements in fibroid treatment and a better understanding of miscarriage reporting in these contexts.

In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Anna Powell, a reproductive infectious disease specialist, delves into groundbreaking developments in gynecological diagnostics. She highlights advancements in vaginal infection testing, contrasting traditional methods with innovative molecular approaches for greater accuracy. The conversation also touches on the implications of COVID vaccinations on menstrual cycles and the importance of clear communication regarding vaginal microbiome test results. Dr. Powell’s insights aim to enhance patient care and empower women in managing their reproductive health.

Dr. Richard M. Burwick, an associate professor and maternal-fetal medicine expert, discusses the latest advancements in preeclampsia research. He highlights the importance of angiogenic biomarkers and their role in maternal health, including the newly FDA-approved S-FLIT ratio test. The conversation also dives into the implications of antenatal steroids for late preterm deliveries and the impact of low-dose aspirin on neurodevelopment. Burwick emphasizes the need for equitable access to testing and the balance between biomarker data and clinical judgment.

Dr. Margaret G. Mueller, an associate professor specializing in urogynecology at the University of Chicago, joins the discussion to share her expertise. She dives into groundbreaking research on using MRI and machine learning to analyze leiomyomas. The talk covers the importance of updating activity restrictions post-surgery, challenging traditional practices surrounding recovery after procedures like hysterectomies. Dr. Mueller emphasizes the need for evidence-based guidance that enhances recovery while maintaining quality of life for women.

Dr. Melissa Bauer, an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at Duke University, discusses vital research aimed at reducing maternal mortality from sepsis. She delves into innovative prediction tools for sepsis screening during pregnancy and the postpartum period, emphasizing their potential for early detection. The conversation also covers the need for adaptable screening strategies in low-resource settings. Additionally, they evaluate antibiotic use in maternal care and the nuances of diagnosing infections, revealing critical insights for healthcare providers.

Dr. Emily H. Adhikari, author of “Vaginal Compared With Oral Misoprostol Induction at Term: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial,” discusses the findings of a study comparing vaginal and oral misoprostol protocols for inducing labor, including differences in oxytocin use and fetal heart rate changes.

Dr. Amy L. Askew, author of “Patient Removal of Urinary Catheters After Urogynecologic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial,” discusses the study comparing home and office voiding trials for catheter removal after neurodynamic surgery. The results show that home removal is non-inferior to standard practice, resulting in less pain and higher patient satisfaction.

Dr. Jessica R. Ansari, a fellowship-trained obstetric anesthesiologist from Stanford, dives into the significant findings of her research on using intravenous calcium to reduce blood loss during cesarean deliveries. She discusses the impact of medical debt and public policy on maternal health, alongside innovations in obstetric care. The conversation also highlights the safety protocols in clinical trials for high-risk patients and the importance of addressing uterine atony to improve outcomes. Tune in for enlightening insights on advancing maternal healthcare!

Dr. Jessica Y. Shim, author of “Evaluation and Management of Endometriosis in the Adolescent,” discusses the evaluation and management of endometriosis in adolescents, highlighting the impact it has on patients' daily lives and the barriers to diagnosis. The podcast also introduces the launch of an Open Access Companion Journal called ONG Open and discusses the controversial practice of routine pelvic examinations in gynecology.

In this engaging discussion, Siwen Wang, a Harvard researcher, shares insights on how lifestyle choices can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes. The conversation highlights critical factors like body mass index, exercise, and alcohol consumption. The duo also examines the role of diversity in ovarian cyst research, emphasizing patient experiences and innovative management strategies. Additionally, they tackle the complexities of interpreting obstetric ultrasounds and managing hypertension during pregnancy, revealing the vital need for national guidelines and improved care protocols.