In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, explores Psychological Trauma in Pregnancy, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of maternal care. We discuss the impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV), adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and perinatal PTSD on both maternal and fetal outcomes. You’ll learn how trauma can influence prenatal behaviors, increase risks for preterm birth, and complicate bonding. We also review screening tools, trauma-informed care principles, and when to involve behavioral health support.

#MaternalMentalHealth #PsychologicalTrauma #PregnancyCare #IPV #PANCEprep #WOMENSHEALTH101 #PAstudent #PerinatalHealth

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, explores Physical Trauma in Pregnancy—a vital topic as trauma is a leading cause of non-obstetric maternal death. We cover common causes such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and intimate partner violence, and how physiological changes in pregnancy impact trauma response and management. Sharon discusses the importance of the primary and secondary surveys, fetal monitoring, and when to consider Rh immunoglobulin. Special considerations for imaging, perimortem C-section, and maternal stabilization are also highlighted.

#traumainpregnancy #maternaltrauma #obemergencies #PAstudent #WOMENSHEALTH101 #PANCEprep

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, walks you through Umbilical Cord Prolapse—a true obstetric emergency that occurs when the umbilical cord slips below the presenting part after membrane rupture. This can lead to fetal bradycardia due to cord compression and compromised oxygenation. Sharon reviews the risk factors (like malpresentation and polyhydramnios), key signs on fetal monitoring, and critical management steps, including maternal positioning and immediate cesarean delivery. Recognizing and acting swiftly on this diagnosis can be lifesaving.

#umbilicalcordprolapse #obemergencies #WOMENSHEALTH101 #PANCEprep #PAstudent #womenshealth

Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency where the fetal anterior shoulder becomes impacted behind the maternal pubic symphysis after head delivery—often noted by the “turtle sign.” Risk factors include fetal macrosomia, maternal diabetes, and a prior history of shoulder dystocia. First-line management includes the McRoberts maneuver with suprapubic pressure; advanced techniques may be required if initial maneuvers fail. Timely intervention is critical to reduce risks like brachial plexus injury and postpartum hemorrhage.

#shoulderdystocia #obemergencies #PAstudents #womenshealth #propa #PANCEprep

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down the essentials of Rh incompatibility, a potentially serious condition that can affect pregnant individuals and their unborn babies. Learn what happens when an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive fetus, how maternal sensitization occurs, and why this can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn in future pregnancies.

We’ll cover:

• When and how Rh incompatibility is detected (hint: indirect Coombs test).

• The critical role of Rho(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM) administration at 28 weeks and postpartum.

• Situations that increase risk of fetal blood mixing (amniocentesis, trauma, delivery).

• Management strategies to prevent alloimmunization and protect future pregnancies.

#RhIncompatibility #RhoGAM #MaternalFetalMedicine #Obstetrics #WomensHealth #PANCEprep #PAstudent #WOMENSHEALTH101

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, walks you through Prelabor Rupture of Membranes (PROM)—when the amniotic sac breaks before the onset of labor. We clarify the difference between term PROM and preterm PROM (PPROM) and review the common causes, including infections, cervical insufficiency, and prior preterm birth. You’ll learn the classic presentation (sudden gush or steady leakage of fluid), how to confirm diagnosis using speculum exam, nitrazine, and fern tests, and how to manage based on gestational age and infection risk. We’ll also cover complications like chorioamnionitis and cord prolapse and when delivery is indicated.

#PROM #PPROM #Obstetrics #WomensHealth #PANCEprep #PAstudent #WOMENSHEALTH101

In this foundational episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, breaks down the critical components of preconception and prenatal care. We discuss the importance of optimizing maternal health before conception—addressing folic acid supplementation, chronic disease management, immunizations, and lifestyle changes. Once pregnancy is confirmed, we review the timeline of prenatal visits, routine screenings (e.g., blood type, Rh status, anemia, STIs), genetic counseling, ultrasound milestones, and key labs during each trimester. This episode prepares listeners to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care that promotes healthy pregnancy outcomes.

#PrenatalCare #PreconceptionCounseling #Obstetrics #PAEducation #WomensHealth #PANCEprep #WOMENSHEALTH101

In this milestone 300th episode, host Dr. Christina G. Gonzales, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, (Dr. G) shares a heartfelt countdown of the Top 10 truths every PA student should know—from lessons learned in PA school to the wisdom gained through nearly 20 years in medicine.

You'll hear personal stories, motivational insights, and practical advice on clinical rotations, board prep, imposter syndrome, and staying human in the chaos of medicine. Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep in the trenches, this episode is packed with the kind of real talk every future PA needs.

🎧 Don’t miss the Pro-PA Tip and special thank-you message to celebrate 300 episodes!

#PAstudent #PAschool #PAeducation #PANCEprep #ProPAPodcast #PhysicianAssociate #PrePA #Motivation #MedLife

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, highlights the spectrum of postpartum psychiatric disorders—from the common “baby blues” to more serious conditions like postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum psychosis. We explore the risk factors (e.g., prior mood disorders, lack of support), clinical presentation, screening tools (like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), and treatment approaches including therapy, medication, and hospitalization when needed. Learn how to differentiate normal adjustment from psychiatric emergencies and understand when to intervene.

#PostpartumDepression #PPD #PostpartumPsychosis #WomensMentalHealth #PAEducation #PANCEprep #WOMENSHEALTH101

In this episode of WOMENSHEALTH101, guest host Sharon Machner, MPAS, PA-C, dives into postpartum pituitary disorders, focusing on the rare but life-threatening condition known as Sheehan syndrome—postpartum hypopituitarism caused by ischemic necrosis of the pituitary following severe blood loss during or after childbirth. We break down the pathophysiology, clinical signs (like failure to lactate and amenorrhea), diagnostic workup, and long-term hormone replacement strategies.

#SheehanSyndrome #PituitaryDisorders #PostpartumCare #PANCEPrep #PAEducation #WOMENSHEALTH101