Thinking About Ob/Gyn

Antonia Roberts and Howard Herrell review several new articles: 

• Epifoam for postpartum pain lacks evidence of effectiveness compared to simple ice packs while costing nearly $100 per unit
• AMH levels above 5.39 are associated with PCOS diagnosis, providing a specific threshold for clinical use
• External aortic compression demonstrated as a life-saving technique during severe obstetric hemorrhage
• Vaginal estrogen in breast cancer survivors shows no increased risk of cancer recurrence or mortality
• Delayed cord clamping in preterm twins reduces mortality by 30% and significantly decreases transfusion needs

Then they discuss new birth control options while questioning the value of expensive pharmaceutical products compared to established, less costly alternatives.

• New birth control options like Balcoltra ($280/month), FemLyv ($215/month), and Nextstellis ($250/month) offer minimal innovation over generic alternatives costing $10-15/month
• Marketing terms like "bioidentical" and "plant-based" are often misleading as all hormonal contraceptives are synthesized from plant precursors
• Progestin-only pills like Slynd provide only marginal DVT risk reduction (5 vs 4 per 100,000 person-years) compared to low-dose combined pills

Check our Instagram for more information and join us again in two weeks for our next episode.

00:00:00 Introduction and Epifoam Discussion

00:06:27 Financial Impact of Unnecessary Treatments

00:11:09 AMH Levels for PCOS Diagnosis

00:15:11 External Aortic Compression for Hemorrhage

00:20:22 Vaginal Estrogen and Delayed Cord Clamping

00:21:51 New Birth Control Products Overview

00:31:05 Analyzing Dissolvable Birth Control Pills

00:34:22 Slynd: Drosperinone-Only Pill Evaluation

00:42:09 Nextstellis and "Bioidentical" Estrogen Claims

00:56:37 History of Birth Control Development

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We discuss the pressing issues surrounding operative vaginal deliveries, including trends in their usage and the disparities impacting delivery outcomes. Join us as we navigate these critical insights with expert guests Jamie Perry and Howard Herrell, revealing the complexities and nuances surrounding forceps and vacuum deliveries.

• Examining the historical context of operative vaginal deliveries
• Analyzing the decline in forceps and vacuum usage since the 1990s
• Discussing the rise of cesarean deliveries as an alternative
• Revealing racial disparities adjacent to delivery practices
• Outlining effective techniques for both forceps and vacuum-assisted deliveries

Learn more about this pressing topic and gain valuable insights by listening to our episode.

00:00:00 ntroduction and Overview of the Episode

00:01:18 The Decline in Operative Vaginal Deliveries

00:05:24 Forceps

00:24:21 Vacuums

00:49:30 Advice For Trainees

00:55:38 Four Tips for Forceps and Vacuums

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This episode dives into the debate surrounding the efficacy and cost of barbed sutures in surgical practice, questioning whether their time-saving advantages are justified compared to traditional techniques, especially for uterine closure. Additionally, it explores the implications of non-invasive prenatal testing for cancer detection and recent maternal mortality statistics, while advocating for evidence-based practices in both surgical and obstetric care. 

• Analysis of barbed suture use and cost implications 

• Discussion of unexpected cancer detection via NIPS 

• Exploration of maternal mortality statistics and misconceptions 

• The relative value of baby (a discussion of the perverse economics of pediatric and obstetric care)

• Summary of recent findings on aspirin dosages for preeclampsia 

• Examination of venous thromboembolism risks with hormonal contraceptives

00:00:01 Barbed Suture in OBGYN Surgery

00:09:13 Comparing Surgical Sutures

00:17:11 NIPS Results and Maternal Cancer Detection

00:24:04 Maternal Mortality Trends and Data Analysis

00:38:50 Medical Reimbursements and Healthcare Priorities

00:47:20 Risk Factors in Birth Control Thromboembolism

00:54:37 Birth Control and Thromboembolism Risk

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Join Howard with guest host Jacqueline Vidosh as we explore the challenges of maternal cardiac arrest. This episode emphasizes the urgent need for specialized training in obstetric life support. From discussing causes of maternal mortality to sharing practical tips for first responders, the insights presented aim to enhance awareness and preparedness in critical situations.

• Discussing the alarming rise in maternal mortality rates
• Identifying common causes of maternal cardiac arrest
• The importance of OBLS training and education for healthcare providers 
• Emphasizing the need for left uterine displacement during resuscitation 
• Addressing healthcare disparities affecting Black women 
• Sharing unique physiological adaptations in pregnant patients 
• Strategies for improving outcomes in maternal cardiac arrest cases 
• Highlighting the value of simulation training for all healthcare personnel 

Every healthcare professional plays a role in improving maternal health outcomes. Listen in for tips and insights on how we can enhance readiness for maternal cardiac arrest situations.

00:00:01 Obstetric Life Support

00:03:34 Maternal Mortality and OBLS Training

00:15:23 Maternal Health Disparities and Physiologic Changes

00:27:53 Cesarean Delivery and Post-Delivery Care

00:41:15 History and Implementation of CPR

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In this episode, Howard and Antonia focuses on the evolving guidelines for HPV screening and the implications for women's health, highlighting its superior effectiveness over traditional Pap smear tests. Additionally, we explore the reliability of pregnancy apps for information and address a listener question about Group B Streptococcus screening and management.

• Discusses the transition to HPV testing as primary cervical cancer screening
• Reviews a recent study confirming HPV's effectiveness in preventing cervical cancer
• Examines the reliability and misinformation in pregnancy apps
• Answers listener questions regarding Group B Streptococcus management

00:00:01 Circumvallate Placenta

00:13:51 Evaluating Pregnancy Apps for Accuracy

00:26:56 Evaluating Risks of Pregnancy Apps

00:36:51 Gestational Diabetes Treatment Options

00:45:47 Manage GBS Risk Factors

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Discover how cesarean hysterectomy, once a procedure shrouded in fear, has evolved into a life-saving operation with contributions from pioneering figures like Eduardo Porro and Lawson Tate. In this episode, we are joined by gynecologic oncologist Stuart Winkler, who shares invaluable insights into both unplanned and planned cesarean hysterectomies. Explore the primary indications for these critical surgeries, from uncontrollable bleeding in unplanned emergencies to managing known conditions like placenta accreta in planned scenarios. You'll gain a deep understanding of the strategic decision-making required, especially in resource-limited environments, to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

Navigate the complexities of performing cesarean hysterectomies under challenging circumstances, particularly when severe hemorrhage threatens patient safety. We delve into surgical tips and techniques, emphasizing the significance of early and careful bladder dissection, effective use of energy sealing devices, and confident decision-making. Our discussion highlights innovative strategies for uterine preservation in placenta accreta spectrum disorders, offering creative solutions when complete resection isn't feasible, and exploring new protocols that balance operative blood loss and patient fertility.

Finally, take a journey through the historical evolution of cesarean hysterectomy with us, as we trace its transformation from a fearful, last-resort measure to a cornerstone of modern obstetric care. Learn about the pivotal technological advancements that have shaped current practices, such as preoperative arterial occlusion techniques, equipping today's surgeons with a wide array of tools to tackle even the most complex cases. This episode promises a comprehensive blend of historical insights and practical advice, making it an essential listen for both seasoned professionals and those new to the field.

00:00:01 Cesarean Hysterectomy
00:09:14 Surgical Tips for Cesarean Hysterectomy
00:17:42 Advanced Techniques in C-Hysterectomy
00:23:56 Surgical Tips for Planned C-Hysterectomy
00:31:36 Surgical Techniques for Hemorrhage Control
00:41:38 Uterine Preservation in Spectrum Placenta
00:53:37 Evolution of Cesarean Hysterectomy

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Challenge preconceived notions in obstetrics and gynecology with our latest episode, where we dismantle myths that have long influenced medical practices, even in the absence of scientific backing. From unraveling the misunderstood reaction between alcohol and metronidazole to examining the overlooked risks of clindamycin cream, we'll look at how these misconceptions take root in medical culture. We continue with a critical analysis of intrapartum GBS prophylaxis, correcting widespread misunderstandings around its purpose and timing during labor and how it affects labor management.

We address the rise of dubious hormone tests, like the DUTCH Test, marketed to consumers, painting a cautionary picture of how social media amplifies these unvalidated products. We highlight the importance of consulting healthcare professionals while discussing the potential paradigm shift that self-collected HPV testing could bring to cervical screening, as recommended in the coming cervical cancer screening guiudelines. This new approach might revolutionize screening rates and quality of care, especially for underserved populations, all while realigning healthcare providers' focus on more pressing medical needs.

Prepare for an engaging conclusion as we scrutinize the comparative effectiveness of postpartum hemorrhage devices Jada and Bakri, emphasizing the ethical implications of cost versus efficacy. We'll take you on a historical journey through the concept of "quickening" in pregnancy, reflecting on its cultural significance and evolution with modern science.

Plus, changes for next season!

00:00:02 Metronidazole and Alcohol
00:13:03 Intrapartum GBS Prophylaxis Guidelines Clarified
00:24:54 Hormone Testing and Cervical Screening
00:31:07HPV Self-Collect Screening Implications
00:42:54 Comparative Efficacy of Postpartum Hemorrhage Devices
00:51:29 Historical Perspectives on Fetal Development

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In this episode, we give four simple tips for performing a Pap smear. Then we dive into the complicated problem of obstetric units closing across the United States and actions we need to take to stop this dangerous trend that threatens the safety of pregnant women and newborns. Also, we highlight the important of hospital based obstetric programs and the history of why births moved into the hospitals in the beginning of the 20th Century and the 99% decline in maternal and neonatal mortality that followed.

00:00:02 Cervical Cancer Screening Tips

00:14:13 Hospital Closures Affect Obstetric Care

00:37:27 Rural Obstetric Units Closing Challenges

00:44:53 Hospital vs. Home Birth Safety

00:49:40 Healthcare Disparities for Women and Children

00:55:08 Evolving Birth Settings in America

01:02:28 Email Advocacy for Healthcare Reform

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Do patients in labor need continuous bladder drainage? We will review the literature comparing intermittent to continuous drainage.

Next, we venture into the art and science of manual rotation for persistent posterior fetal presentations, a skillful maneuver that might just hold the key to lowering cesarean rates. Drawing from comprehensive reviews and trials, including the TURN-OUT trial and studies from UCSF, we debate the efficacy and applicability of manual rotation in various clinical settings. From ultrasound-guided techniques to hands-on learning, gain a nuanced understanding of how this practice might enhance delivery outcomes and reduce interventions.

Finally, we learn about Cesarean Scar Disorder, a relatively new diagnosis with important clinical ramifications.

00:00:10 Urinary Catheterization in Labor Management

00:16:10 Manual Rotation of the OP Fetus

00:49:32 Effectiveness of Labor Positioning Techniques

00:58:03 Cesarean Scar Disorder

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In this episode, we discuss four tips for effective birth control counseling. By dissecting communication techniques, we highlight how striking a balance between relational and task-oriented approaches can maximize patient interactions and ensure comprehensive, evidence-based care regarding birth control choices.

Then we delve into several studies from the recent ABOG MOC cycle that we found interesting or curious and point out several informative nuggets.

Finally, we discuss the book "Feminine Forever" and its impact on estrogen replacement therapy perceptions.

00:00:02 Communication Strategies for Birth Control Counseling

00:11:56 Effective Communication of Birth Control Risks

00:21:08 PAS After Myomectomy

00:23:03 Risk-Reducing Surgery Adherence Discussion

00:30:33 Issues With Modern Labor Curves

00:38:49 Stopping ASA Early

00:42:17 Prophylactic Slings

00:46:01 Clinical Updates on UTIs

00:51:34 Mental Health Guidelines and Other Articles

00:55:51 Feminine Forever

Follow us on Instagram @thinkingaboutobgyn.