SMFM's Podcast Series

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast, Dr. Shannon Son, MFM from the University of Colorado and Local Arrangements Chair for the 2025 Pregnancy Meeting, sits down with Program Chair Dr. Blair Wylie to discuss what’s in store for this year’s Pregnancy Meeting in Denver Colorado. They cover everything from exciting new features and inclusivity initiatives to the rigorous abstract review process and sustainability efforts. Tune in to hear about standout sessions like the President’s Workshop on preterm birth, new high school and medical student engagement programs, and some unique networking opportunities, including the return of the Puppy Lounge! Don't miss the chance to prepare for a week full of cutting-edge science, education, and connection with colleagues in maternal-fetal medicine. Register Here! 

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast, Dr. Marwan Ma’ayeh discusses maternal RSV vaccination with Dr. Sarah Boudova, an expert in infectious diseases and a third-year maternal-fetal medicine fellow. They dive into the Abrysvo vaccine and explain its importance for protecting newborns from RSV-related respiratory illnesses. Dr. Boudova provides essential insights into the vaccine's components, its unique role during pregnancy, timing considerations, and co-administration with other vaccines. They also touch on current recommendations from leading health organizations and outline practical advice for healthcare providers on storing and administering the vaccine. Listen to learn how maternal RSV vaccination can safeguard infant health during the RSV season and look out for the upcoming episode, which will cover patient education, access, and cost. For more resources on RSV, visit smfm.org/rsv.  Click here for the full transcript.    Disclaimer: Sponsored by a grant from Pfizer, Inc. No content should be considered a solicitation, promotion, or advertisement for any Pfizer product.  

Show Notes:  In this episode of the SMFM podcast, Dr. Marwan Maayeh is joined by Dr. Sura Alwan, an expert in teratology and birth defects epidemiology. Together, they explore the role of teratogens—agents that can cause birth abnormalities when exposed to the developing fetus. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges MFM specialists face when counseling patients on medication use during pregnancy and the resources available for healthcare professionals and patients alike. Dr. Alwan highlights the work of OTIS (Organization of Teratology Information Specialists) and TERIS (Teratogen Information System) in providing evidence-based guidance on drug and environmental exposures in pregnancy. They also discuss the importance of research in identifying and managing teratogenic risks, the role of teratology databases, and combating misinformation in the field. Tune in for practical insights and resources on navigating these complex issues in MFM practice. Additional Resources: TERIS OTIS/MotherToBaby Teratogenesis, Perinatal, and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes After In Utero Exposure to Antiseizure Medication Practice Guideline From the AAN, AES, and SMFM smfmadvocates.org/positions Transcript: Click here for the full transcript 

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast Series, Dr. Alireza Shamshirsaz hosts a discussion with Dr. Sarah Obican about SMFM Consult Series #72, focusing on the management of Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) and Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) in monochorionic twins. Dr. Obican shares insights into the latest evidence and practice guidelines for TTTS and TAPS, discussing the importance of early sonographic determination, recommendations for TTTS screening, and the complexities of managing TAPS. The conversation also covers fetal therapy options, doppler use, and the challenges of staging TTTS. Tune in to hear how these evolving guidelines impact clinical practice and patient care. Additional Resources: SMFM Consult #72: Twin-twin transfusion syndrome and twin anemia-polycythemia sequence Click here to access the full transcript. 

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast Series, Dr. Catherine Albright interviews Dr. Jecca Steinberg on racial reporting and representation in OB/Gyn Clinical Trials.   Additional Resources:  Race and Ethnicity Reporting and Representation in Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinical Trials and Publications From 2007-2020 Special Issue on Racism in Reproductive Health: Helpful suggestions and reflective questions to support authors and reviewers in centering racial equity in science Research Letter- Obstetric Clinical Trial Diversity: Analysis of Trial Focus and Representation From 2007 to 2020

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast Series, Dr. Ashley Battarbee, a member of the SMFM Publications committee, speaks with past committee chair Dr. Jeffrey Kuller and current committee chair Dr. Judette Louis about the consult development process. In their conversation they cover how a consult goes from brainstorm to publication and who is involved along the way. Listen to learn about how to get involved with SMFM Publications. To access the full transcript, click here.  Additional Resources: ·         Publications landing page ·         Overview of the SMFM guideline development process

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Heidi Leftwich speaks with Dr. Priyanka Gaur and Dr. Maria Phillis about SMFM’s new Get Out the Vote initiative. They delve into the critical role that voting plays as a social determinant of health and its far-reaching impact on reproductive healthcare. The discussion covers the intersection of civic engagement and patient care, offering insights on how MFM specialists can advocate for their patients by encouraging voter participation. Dr. Gaur and Dr. Phillis share their personal experiences with civic engagement, the challenges and opportunities in the current political climate, and practical tips on how healthcare providers can integrate voting discussions into their practice. Learn about the resources available to help you and your patients get involved in this election season, ensuring that every voice is heard. Recorded on July 31, 2024 Click here to access the full transcript.  Additional Resources:        SMFM’s Get Out the Vote Initiative          Vot-ER

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Akila Subramaniam welcomes Dr. Alan Tita, a renowned MFM researcher and Senior Associate Dean for Global and Women's Health at UAB Heersink School of Medicine. Dr. Tita shares his inspiring journey to becoming a leading figure in maternal health research, discussing his motivations, global experiences, and influential mentors. He also provides valuable advice for aspiring researchers. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with wisdom and practical insights.  Subscribe now and visit education.smfm.org for more educational resources.   A full transcript to this episode can be found here. 

In this episode of the SMFM Podcast Series, Dr. Marwan Ma’ayeh hosts a timely discussion on preparing for the annual respiratory disease season. Our guests, Dr. Brenna Hughes and Dr. Naima Joseph share valuable insights into the latest CDC guidelines and recommendations for managing respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV, during the 2024-2025 season. They discuss the importance of vaccinations, including the RSV vaccine available for pregnant patients, and how healthcare providers can support their patients and staff through the upcoming season. Tune in for essential updates and practical advice to help navigate this respiratory disease season effectively. Additional Links: SMFM COVID-19 Clinical Guidance SMFM RSV Clinical Guidance  Patient Education Website Click here to access the full transcript.

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Amy Valent is joined by Dr. Abigail Wilpers and Dr. Ashish Premkumar to explore the critical issue of public misinformation surrounding fetal therapy and perinatal palliative care. They address the emotional challenges faced by pregnant individuals with fetal diagnoses, the benefits and limitations of fetal therapy, and the true nature of perinatal palliative care. The discussion includes ethical implications of misinformation, barriers to accessing care, and the impact of recent legislative trends. Join us as we dispel myths and advocate for informed, compassionate patient care in maternal-fetal medicine. To access the full transcript, click here. Additional Resources:  Kolder article: Court-Ordered Obstetrical Interventions | New England Journal of Medicine (nejm.org) Early pregnancy loss post-AL court decision re: embryonic death: Early Pregnancy Loss in an Era of “Wrongful Embryonic Death” | Reproductive Health | JAMA | JAMA Network Texas Policy Project (Kari White's group): Publications | Texas Policy Evaluation Project | Liberal Arts | UT - Austin (utexas.edu) ANSIRH, Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health Dr. Katrina Kimport's work on later abortion: Is third-trimester abortion exceptional? Two pathways to abortion after 24 weeks of pregnancy in the United States - PubMed (nih.gov) The Turnaway Study Dr. Ashish Premkumar study focused on parental decision-making in the setting of fetal anomalies amenable to maternal-fetal surgery: Society of Family Planning: Decision making in the setting of congenital anomalies (NATAL) study (societyfp.org) From Congress to the Vatican: The Promotion of Maternal-Fetal Surgery & Perinatal Palliative Care as Alternatives to Abortion Care (talk by Dr. Abigail Wilpers) Maternal-fetal surgery is not an alternative to abortion care by Dr. Abigail Wilpers and Kristen Gosnell Exceptions to abortion restrictions often fail people like Kate Cox whose babies are sure to die by Dr. Abigail Wilpers The legal article mentioned by Dr. Abigail Wilpers outlining the PPC notification laws and how some “triggers” for the laws make no sense (because the laws are really meant to obstruct abortion care). Fetal Health Foundation (parent-run non-profit) Society for Family Planning ACOG Clinical Guidance: Perinatal Palliative Care (SMFM Endorsed)  Care levels for fetal therapy centers  SFP Statement on Abortion Nomenclature (SMFM Endorsed)   SMFM Policy Tracker  SMFM Consult Series #59: The use of Analgesia and Anesthesia for maternal-fetal procedures NAFTNet   Study on Maternal Autonomy Nebraska Law Text    

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Janine Rhodes discusses the critical topic of managing pregnancy during extreme heat with guests Dr. Sarah Boudova and Dr. Romeo Galang. They delve into the physiological impacts of heat on pregnant individuals, potential adverse outcomes, and practical strategies for healthcare providers to support their patients. The conversation also covers the CDC's CHIL’D OUT Questionnaire, the importance of staying hydrated, and considerations for medication management in high temperatures. This episode is a must-listen for maternal-fetal medicine specialists looking to better support their patients during the summer months.  The full transcript can be found here.  Additional Resources: CDC Guidance on Heat and Health CHIL’D OUT Questionnaire Five Steps to Prepare for Hot Days for Pregnant Women Tool Kit for Pregnant Women National Weather Service CDC Heat Risk Tool Air Quality Index How to use the HeatRisk Tool and Air Quality Index Cooling Centers Information CDC Heat and Medications Articles: Extreme heat exposure in pregnancy and risk for preterm birth, low birth weight and stillbirths Analysis of Heat Exposure During Pregnancy and Severe Maternal Morbidity Temperature and preeclampsia: Epidemiological evidence that perturbation in maternal heat homeostasis affects pregnancy outcome

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Rachel Harrison welcomes Dr. Torri Metz, Vice Chair for Research at the University of Utah's Department of OBGYN, to discuss the ins and outs of publishing in maternal-fetal medicine. Dr. Metz shares her journey into research, providing invaluable advice on developing a successful research career, navigating the challenges of publishing, and integrating research into clinical practice. Whether you're an early career professional or a seasoned clinician looking to delve into research, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration. Tune in to hear Dr. Metz’s experiences and strategies for making a significant impact in maternal-fetal medicine.   Full transcript can be found here. 

In this episode, Dr. Amy Valent and guest Dr. Sarah Osmundson discuss the updated guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology on Teratogenesis, Perinatal, and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes After In Utero Exposure to Antiseizure Medication. These guidelines, developed in collaboration with the American Epilepsy Society and SMFM, provide evidence-based recommendations on anti-seizure medications, perinatal outcomes, and neurodevelopmental impacts for people with epilepsy of childbearing potential. The episode emphasizes the importance of preconception planning and appropriate medication management, addressing the complexities of epilepsy in pregnancy, including congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the latest recommendations for managing epilepsy in pregnancy. Additional Resources: Practice Guidelines from the AAN, AES, and SMFM Full transcript can be found here. 

In this episode, Dr. Ahmed Zaki Moustafa and Dr. Irene Stafford discuss the rising cases of syphilis among pregnant individuals in the United States. They cover diagnostic challenges, treatment recommendations, and the management of both maternal and congenital syphilis. They also explore the need for future research directions and emphasize the importance of early screening and partner treatment. Tune in to learn about the current state of syphilis, its impact on pregnancy, and strategies to mitigate these risks. Full transcript can be found at this link, under the handouts tab.  Links:  Syphilis Complicating Pregnancy and Congenital Syphilis  ACOG Recommends Obstetrician-Gynecologists Increase Syphilis Screening for Pregnant Individuals

In this episode, Dr. Rupesh Patel and guest Dr. Malavika Prabhu discuss SMFM Consult #69: Hepatitis B in Pregnancy: Updated Guidelines. They cover key updates, including the triple panel testing approach and the use of antiviral treatments like tenofovier to prevent perinatal transmission. Additionally, they discuss how providers can best incorporate this information into shared decision-making with patients. Tune in to understand the clinical impact of these guidelines and practical advice for implementing them in prenatal care.  Full transcript can be found at this link.  Links:  SMFM Consult #69: Hepatitis B Virus in Pregnancy: Updated Guidelines  SMFM Clinical Webinar Series: Hepatitis B Virus in Pregnancy: Updated Guidelines  Patient Education Fact Sheet on Hepatitis B Virus and Pregnancy   

In this episode of the SMFM podcast series, Dr. Rachel Harrison and guest Dr. Neil Silverman discuss the latest SMFM guidelines on managing measles in pregnancy. They address the rise in measles cases in the U.S., the importance of vaccinations, and the specific risks and complications for pregnant individuals and provide critical insights on transmission, diagnosis, and care strategies to help healthcare providers manage measles effectively during this significant outbreak. Tune in for essential guidance on protecting maternal and neonatal health during a measles outbreak.     Links: Measles and Pregnancy: What Maternal-Fetal Medicine Subspecialists Need to Know ACOG Practice Advisory CDC guidelines for pregnancy and vaccination the CDC healthcare providers measles page Photos of Measles and People with Measles | CDC

In this episode of the SFM Podcast Series, Dr. Stephanie Ros welcomes Dr. Cynthia Gyamfi-Bannerman, the new SMFM President, to discuss her path to maternal-fetal medicine, her research on preterm birth, and her goals for the society, including increasing member engagement and focusing on preterm birth solutions. Dr. Gyamfi-Bannerman shares inspiring advice for early-career MFMs and highlights opportunities for members to contribute to SMFM's mission. For those interested in maternal-fetal medicine developments and contributing to the field, this conversation offers valuable insights and ways to get involved. See links below for involvement opportunities or contact SMFM via SMFM@smfm.org. ·        SMFM Committees | SMFM.org - The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine ·       SMFM Committees: General Abstract Reviewer Application | SMFM.org - The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine ·       SMFM Committees: Diversity & Inclusion in the Workforce Committee | SMFM.org - The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine ·        State Liaison Network — SMFM Advocacy Hub (smfmadvocates.org)  Full transcipt can be found at this link. 

Dr. Rachael Overcash interviews Dr. Ebony Carter and Dr. Emily Miller about the 2024 President’s Workshop. This workshop, led by Dr. Tony Sciscione, focused on Maternal Mental Health. You can find the resources mentioned in the podcast linked below.  Postpartum support international State Perinatal Psychiatry Access Programs ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline: Screening and Diagnosis of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline: Treatment and Management of Mental Health Conditions During Pregnancy and Postpartum National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) EleVATE Women Collaborative Shades of Blue Project AIMS Center at the University of Washington

In this episode, Dr. Janine Rhoads interviews Dr. Mara Greenberg, an author of SMFM Consult Series #68 Sickle Cell Disease in Pregnancy. They delve into the challenges and opportunities for managing pregnant individuals with sickle cell disease. From pre-conception counseling to the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach, the discussion sheds light on optimizing outcomes for both mothers and newborns. Dr. Greenberg provides valuable insights into pain management and reproductive autonomy while emphasizing the importance of an equity-based approach in care delivery. Subscribe to the SMFM podcast series for more insightful discussions on maternal-fetal medicine. Click here to access the SMFM Consult Series #68 Sickle Cell Disease in Pregnancy.  For the full transcript click here. The 2024 U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (U.S. MEC) provides updated recommendations for the use of specific contraceptive methods by persons who have certain medical conditions, including sickle cell disease. This page summarizes notable updates to the 2024 U.S. MEC and links to tools for providers.

Dr. Rachael Overcash discusses the Pregnancy Meeting from a fellow’s perspective with Dr. Sami Backley, Dr. Helen Gomez Slagle, and Dr. Gina Milone. Tune in to learn how these fellows plan to optimize their Pregnancy Meeting experience. Learn more and register today at smfm.org/2024 Register here: https://bit.ly/SMFM24_Reg Reserve your hotel here: https://bit.ly/GaylordSMFM24