Advances in Women's Health

Endometrial cancer treatment is continuing to evolve, with surgery guiding initial decisions and new evidence showing that adding immunotherapy significantly improves outcomes in advanced disease. But key questions remain around tailoring regimens to individual patients. Dr. Ann Klopp highlights the latest advances and challenges in management, particularly in patients with pelvic recurrences. Dr. Klopp is a Professor of Radiation Oncology, the Director of Brachytherapy, and the leader of the gynecologic section at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

The recent NRG0238 trial evaluated whether adding chemotherapy to radiation improves outcomes in patients with localized endometrial cancer recurrences. Hear from Dr. Ann Klopp as she explains the findings and how they could shift practice patterns for patient care. Dr. Klopp is a Professor of Radiation Oncology, the Director of Brachytherapy, and the leader of the gynecologic section in the Department of Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

For patients with endometriosis, treatment delays can profoundly impact both quality of life and clinical outcomes. Proactive strategies that address logistical barriers—such as prior authorizations—combined with education and multidisciplinary support are essential in improving care. Join Dr. Charles Turck and Dr. Jacqueline Wong as they explore practical approaches for managing this complex condition and navigating potential hurdles. Dr. Wong is a minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon and an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the School of Medicine at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.

As GLP-1 therapies grow in popularity for weight management and diabetes, an unexpected consequence has emerged: a rise in unplanned pregnancies due to reduced oral contraceptive effectiveness. Dr. Jennifer Caudle sits down with Dr. Johanna Finkle, a weight loss specialist and OB/GYN at the University of Kansas Health System, to explore the mechanisms behind this trend and outline practical, long-acting contraceptive alternatives that maintain efficacy during GLP-1 use.

Despite advances in endometriosis treatment, bias and stigma continue to delay diagnosis and disrupt care for many patients. Informed, empathetic care is key for supporting diverse patient populations. Dr. Charles Turck sits down with Dr. Whitney Ross to unpack how historical misconceptions still influence prescribing habits and discuss actionable strategies for counseling, selecting a treatment plan, and building trust. Dr. Ross is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Washington University in St. Louis.

Endometriosis care is often delayed due to diagnostic and treatment access challenges—but early recognition and proactive strategies can change that. In this expert-led discussion, Dr. Brian McDonough sits down with Dr. Hugh Taylor to explore how we can clinically diagnose endometriosis without relying on surgery, streamline prior authorizations, and guide patients toward affordable treatment options while empowering patients through advocacy and education. Dr. Taylor is the Anita O’Keeffe Young Professor and Chair of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at Yale School of Medicine.

From delayed diagnosis to chronic pain and fertility issues, endometriosis presents a range of challenges that require individualized attention. By focusing on each patient’s unique symptoms and priorities, we can better tailor care and improve outcomes. Join Dr. Mary Katherine Cheeley as she speaks with Dr. Joseph Patruno, an OB/GYN at Lehigh Valley Jefferson Health Network, about practical strategies for delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care.

In addition to heavy menstrual bleeding, patients with uterine fibroids often deal with many other considerable effects on their physical and mental wellbeing. To provide optimal care, it’s important to recognize the full impact of fibroids, communicate carefully about treatment options, and promote equitable access to care. Dr. Charles Turck sits down with Dr. Ayman Al-Hendy to learn more about how we can address the multifaceted burden of uterine fibroids. Dr. Al-Hendy is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Director of Translational Research at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

Despite longstanding reliance on surgery, recent advancements have reshaped our approach to uterine fibroids. However, common myths and misconceptions have limited the adoption of newer therapies, leaving many patients unaware of their available options. Join Dr. Charles Turck and Dr. Ayman Al-Hendy as they explain shifting treatment paradigms and patient education strategies in uterine fibroid care. Dr. Al-Hendy is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Director of Translational Research at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

Since postpartum depression is a serious medical condition that can negatively impact mothers, infants, and partners, it is important to identify symptoms in a timely manner.1-4 Dr. Jennifer Payne and Dr. Melissa Simon are here to share their clinical experiences screening patients for postpartum depression, explore strategies to overcome common challenges in screening, and identify best practices for collaborating in the care of perinatal women.

Dr. Payne is a Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences as well as Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Virginia, and Dr. Simon is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

References

1. American Psychiatric Association. Depressive disorders. In: American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5™. 5th ed. American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013:155-188.
2. Campbell SB, Cohn JF, Meyers T. Depression in First-Time Mothers: Mother-Infant Interaction and Depression Chronicity. Dev Psychol. 1995;31:349-357.
3. Moore Simas TA, Huang MY, Patton C, et al. The humanistic burden of postpartum depression: a systematic literature review. Curr Med Res Opin. 2019;35(3):383-393.
4. Thompson KS, Fox JE. Post-partum depression: a comprehensive approach to evaluation and treatment. Ment Health Fam Med. 2010;7(4):249-257.

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