Investigators in the Raquel and Jaime Gilinski Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science are conducting groundbreaking research on the intricate relationships between obesity, women's health, and cardiometabolic outcomes across the lifespan. Our work encompasses a broad spectrum, from adolescence through pregnancy and into later life, addressing critical issues in women's health care.

Our team investigates how obesity increases risks for pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and gestational diabetes, with findings showing that adolescent obesity triples the risk of pregnancy complications later in life. Beyond pregnancy, researchers are examining obesity's long-term health implications, including increased risks for diabetes, cardiac and kidney diseases, and heart failure. Our research also explores novel, highly effective treatments for obesity, including drugs that can significantly reduce body weight and decrease major cardiac events.

Recognizing the complexities of weight loss, the team is investigating methods to preserve muscle mass during weight reduction and studying how fat tissue, particularly around the heart, contributes to inflammation and cardiovascular dysfunction. We aim to develop targeted interventions for critical periods of weight gain in women's lives, such as during pregnancy and perimenopause, while also focusing on sustainable, lifelong weight management strategies that consider factors like diet, exercise, and environment.

The department's cardiometabolic health research extends beyond obesity to encompass broader aspects of maternal and women's health. Researchers are investigating the biological drivers of optimal pregnancy health, with a focus on immune function and placental diseases such as fetal growth restriction. The team employs advanced epidemiologic and statistical techniques, combined with qualitative research methods, to bridge the "know-do" gap in clinical practice and quality improvement.

A key area of study is the influence of maternal weight and body size on obstetric care experiences and outcomes, using a biopsychosocial lens. This includes developing new multidimensional classifications of weight-related health in pregnancy and designing person-centered obstetric care models. One study is investigating experiences and internalization of weight stigma in obstetric care among diverse postpartum individuals. Through this comprehensive approach, we're addressing the psychological aspects of obesity and working to promote more positive patient-provider interactions.

Researchers are conducting groundbreaking studies across various aspects of gynecological cancers, with a particular focus on ovarian cancer. Our work spans from genetic predisposition and clinical decision-making to innovative treatment approaches and quality of care. Notable areas of research include the development of remotely delivered cancer genetic testing, personalized survivorship care, and the implementation of web-based tools for cancer family history collection.

Our research also extends to translational work in endometrial cancer, exploring shared immunogenic poly-epitope frameshift mutations in microsatellite unstable tumors and investigating hormonal and growth regulation of epithelial and stromal cells. The team is dedicated to improving quality of life and survivorship for women with gynecological cancers, conducting studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients and developing tools to support shared decision-making and maximize appointment time. Additionally, our investigators are enhancing the quality and value of ovarian cancer care, contributing to national discussions on procedural ratings and investigating health care resource utilization associated with disease progression.

Researchers in our Department are conducting innovative studies focused on endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain, areas that significantly impact women's health during midlife transitions. Our research spans from advancing surgical techniques in gynecological surgery to developing novel approaches for early detection and improved access to care for endometriosis patients. A key initiative includes the development of a clinical decision support system using artificial intelligence (AI) for early endometriosis detection, which aims to bring specialty care to centers without high patient volumes and improve overall access to care.

Our research also extends to improving patient education and understanding of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, as well as enhancing quality improvement and patient safety in gynecological care. The team’s work includes studies on patient perceptions of clinical research and medical ethics, particularly in resource-limited settings. Additionally, researchers are involved in a study examining the safety and contraceptive efficacy of Relugolix Combination Therapy in women with uterine fibroids or endometriosis. Through this comprehensive approach, the department aims to advance our understanding of midlife transitions in women's health, improve surgical techniques, and enhance patient outcomes across diverse populations.

We lead groundbreaking research on high-risk pregnancies and maternal-fetal outcomes. Our work spans a wide range of topics, including the impact of obesity on fetal acidosis, the impact of maternal lipids on neonatal outcomes, and the management of placenta accreta disorders using a deep machine learning model, to name a few. We have conducted several clinical trials to improve labor induction techniques and reduce infectious morbidity in cesarean deliveries. Our research has significantly influenced national standards for obstetric care, particularly in the areas of labor induction.

The team’s research on labor induction has led to significant changes in clinical management, particularly for nulliparous women and those with premature rupture of membranes. We are currently conducting a prospective randomized trial assessing the most efficacious induction regimen for obese gravidas. We recently participated in a real-world prospective analysis regarding the use of mechanical devices to reduce peripartum hemorrhage.

Department researchers also focus on a broad range of maternal-fetal topics, including preterm delivery, preeclampsia, and gestational hypertension. Our investigators have been instrumental in improving outcomes for multiple gestations through techniques such as chorionic villus sampling and multifetal pregnancy reduction. Researchers have been involved in studying the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy on obstetric and neonatal outcomes, contributing to valuable insights to maternal care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we are studying the impact of maternal social networks as well as the impact of maternal air quality on birth outcomes.

Lastly, our work also examines the effects of environmental factors and lived experiences on pregnancy health, addressing crucial aspects of health disparities in maternal care.