Gynecologic Oncology

Sobecki presents at NRG Oncology Winter Meeting

Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented at the NRG Oncology Winter Meeting on February 16, 2024. The conference was held in Orlando, Florida. Sobecki, who is the medical director of the UW Health Women’s Integrated Sexual Health (WISH) program, presented “What We Don’t Talk About When We Don’t Talk About Sex & Cancer” duri... more

Sobecki discusses cervical cancer screenings with WBAY-TV 2

Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, discussed cervical cancer symptoms and screening with WBAY-TV 2 during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January. In the interview, Sobecki reminded viewers that cervical cancer symptoms can be subtle and emphasized the importance of timely cancer screenings. She also provided an update on HP... more

Barroilhet evaluates endometrial cancer data in Targeted Oncology

Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, discussed trials that may be of interest for patients with recurrent endometrial cancer with Targeted Oncology during a Case-Based Roundtable event. In the discussion, Barroilhet reviewed data from a few recent trials for patients with recurrent endometrial cancer. She shared patient characteristics i... more

Betancourt Ponce inducted into Bouchet Graduate Honor Society

Congratulations to Mayra Betancourt Ponce, UW School of Medicine and Public Health MD/PhD student and trainee in the labs of Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, and Manish Patankar, PhD, who was inducted into the University of Wisconsin–Madison Graduate School chapter of the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society!“The Edward Alexander Bouchet Graduate Honor Society commemorates the f... more

Spencer invited to co-chair the PROLOG 9th Edition of Gynecologic Oncology and Critical Care

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, was invited by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to co-chair the ninth edition of PROLOG: Gynecologic Oncology and Critical Care.The PROLOG (Personal Review of Learning in Obstetrics and Gynecology) books are self-directed study resources for ob-gyn physicians and trainee... more

Spencer selected for ACGME Residency Tracks in Programs Work Group

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, was invited to join the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Residency Tracks in Programs Work Group. This work group will contribute to the ACGME’s learning about different types of “track” experiences across all specialties. They will offer considerations for how best... more

Spencer joins panel on GME grants at Wisconsin Healthcare Workforce Summit

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, participated in the 2023 Wisconsin Healthcare Workforce Summit, hosted by the Wisconsin Collaborative for Rural Graduate Medical Education (WCRGME) October 29-31, 2023. During the summit, Spencer joined the GME Grant Programs panel discussion to talk about residency development and expansion i... more

Rhoades, Rose, Iruretagoyena serve as ABOG examiners

In early November, three Department of Ob-Gyn faculty served as American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology board examiners in Texas! Janine Rhoades, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine; Steve Rose, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology; and Igor Iruretagoyena, MD, MS, professor and director of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Me... more

Spencer co-authors article about rural health disparities in Quarterly Magazine

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, co-authored an article in the Fall 2023 issue of Quarterly Magazine, the UW School of Medicine and Public Health’s alumni publication, that outlines rural health disparities and highlights programs in the School of Medicine and Public Health designed to alleviate them. In “Easing Rural Health ... more

Department engages UW students during AHANA-MAPS outreach event

On November 16, 2023, several members of the Department of Ob-Gyn participated in an outreach event with the University of Wisconsin–Madison AHANA-MAPS Pre-Health Society. The event focused on showcasing obstetrics and gynecology careers and career pathways with students interested in medical and health science careers. During the event, department members led hands-on birt... more

Rose publishes invited review in Green Journal

Stephen Rose, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, authored a new invited review published in Obstetrics and Gynecology.In “When Less is More”, Rose discusses advancements in screening and ultrasounds that can reduce the need for unnecessary follow-up appointments for ovarian cysts. Rose admits diagnosing ovarian cancer is difficult, but is optimistic that ... more

Sobecki gives keynote speech at Midwest Aspiring Physicians Conference

Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, gave a keynote speech at this year’s Midwest Aspiring Physicians (MAP) Conference on November 4, 2023.Sobecki’s speech was entitled, “10 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Became a Gyn-Oncologist”.The MAP Conference provides pre-med students with a chance to connect with UW School of Medicine and Pu... more

Grand Rounds: Bailey, Patel and Wagar present “Badger Bytes: Fellow Focused Session”

On November 2, 2023, UW Department of Ob-Gyn fellows Erin Bailey, MD, Ushma Patel, MD, and Matt Wagar, MD presented the Grand Rounds lecture “Badger Bytes: Fellow Focused Session”. Erin Bailey, MD, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellow, presented “Postpartum depression pre and post development of comprehensive PAS center at a single academic institution”.Matt Wagar, MD, Gynecologic... more

Spencer receives Rural Health Day Community Hero Award

Congratulations to Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, who received a Rural Health Day Community Hero Award from the Wisconsin Office of Rural Health in November!Spencer was nominated by the Wisconsin Collaborative for Rural Graduate Medical Education (WCRGME) for his efforts to expand rural maternity care training in Wisconsin ... more

Rose, Mojdehbakhsh co-author study in Gynecologic Oncology

UW Department of Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology Fellow Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD, and Stephen Rose, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, co-authored a multi-site study recently published in Gynecologic Oncology. In “Radical hysterectomy case volume and cervical cancer treatment in the era of COVID-19: A multi-site analysis of National Cancer Institute-designated... more

Kushner publishes article in American Cancer Society Journal

David Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, co-authored a new article published in American Cancer Society Journal. Co-authors include Narjust Florez, MD, Laurent Kiel, BS, Kelly Meza, MD, Zihan Wei, MS, Emanuele Mazzola, PhD, Ana I. Velazquex, MD, MSc, Idalid Franco, MD, MPH, Mary Jo Fidlr, MD, Ivy Elkins, Jill Feldman, Lori Seaborne, PA, Christine... more

Barroilhet discusses gynecologic cancer signs and symptoms with WISN

During Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month in September, Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, joined WISN 12 News to share common gynecologic cancer signs and symptoms.In the interview, Barroilhet outlined the variety of gynecologic cancers, risk factors for developing different types of gynecologic cancers, warning signs or sy... more

Department of Ob-Gyn helps raise cancer research funds at Badger Challenge

The 2023 Badger Challenge, the annual walk, run, and bike event that raises funds for cancer research at UW–Madison, took place on September 24, 2023. Many members of the UW Department of Ob-Gyn supported the event, which raised nearly $1 million for research.Angie Sergeant, NP, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Joanne Rash, PA, Division of Gynec... more

Sobecki discusses chemical hair straighteners with CBS 58

As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reportedly considers a ban on some chemical hair straightening products, Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, talked with CBS 58 News about recent research on connections between those products and uterine cancer.“Data was collected from more than 30-000 women for 11 years and women who fre... more

Hall nominated for UW Health APP Unsung Hero Award

Congratulations to Melanie Hall, NP, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, who was recently nominated for a UW Health APP Excellence Unsung Hero Award! Hall and other members of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and the APP team celebrated her nomination at the UW Health APP Awards Ceremony on September 26, 2023.Nominees to the Unsung Hero category demonstrat... more

UW Ob-Gyn brings presentations to Association of Managers of Gynecology and Obstetrics conference

The Association of Managers of Gynecology and Obstetrics (AMGO) hosted their 47th Annual Conference in Hilton Head, South Carolina September 24-27, 2023. The UW Department of Ob-Gyn was well represented at the event. A few of our department’s accomplishments:Kara Mulligan, MHA, MBA, FACHE, UW Ob-Gyn chief administrative officer, is president of AMGO and led the conference.Do... more

Women’s Heathcast: Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning, featuring Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH

Palliative care – medical care to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for people with serious illnesses – is often a key component of cancer care and treatment. Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, joined the Women’s Healthcast during Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month to talk about palliative care, p... more

Welcome incoming Gynecologic Oncology Fellow Julia Gelissen, MD!

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology is excited to announce that Julia Gelissen, MD matched to the Gynecologic Oncology fellowship! Gelissen received her MD from Brown University and is currently completing ob-gyn residency at Yale School of Medicine. She comes highly recommended by her gynecologic oncology colleagues and we are very excited to welcome her to Madi... more

Barroilhet discusses PARP inhibitors with OncLive

Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, joined OncLive to talk about the role of PARP inhibitors for patients with ovarian cancer. In the video, Barroilhet discusses findings from two trials that seem encouraging for PARP inhibitor use: “All patients with ovarian cancer displaying somatic or germline BRCA mutations should receiv... more

Barroilhet publishes editorial in Gynecologic Oncology Reports

Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, published an editorial about the intersection of gynecologic cancer care and post-Dobbs restrictions on health care in Gynecologic Oncology Reports. In “Editorial on vaginal cancer diagnosed in pregnancy and current abortion law on cancer care in Louisiana”, Barroilhet lays out the ways abo... more

Barroilhet co-authors article in Abdominal Radiology

Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, co-authored a new study published in Abdominal Radiology. In “Distribution of prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) on PET-MRI in patients with and without ovarian cancer”, Barroilhet and co-authors outline a proof-of-concept study comparing the results of an imaging protocol in patient... more

Celebrate Advanced Practice Provider Week – September 25-29, 2023

This year, National Advanced Practice Providers Week is September 25-29, 2023. Please join us in thanking the many skilled, dedicated APPs who work in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn! National APP Week celebrates the hard work of Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Certified Nurse Midwives, and other specialists who help elevate the fields of medicine and nursing to ensur... more

Spencer presents first-ever WCRGME Rural Health Grand Rounds

On August 9, 2023, Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented the first Rural Health Grand Rounds lecture for the Wisconsin Collaborative for Rural Graduate Medical Education (WCRGME). Spencer presented an update on maternity care deserts, a growing issue in Wisconsin and other parts of the country. Incredible work, Dr. Spenc... more

In the News: Sobecki discusses cancer risk and hair straighteners

Recent research found that using chemical hair straighteners or relaxers may be linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer. Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, spoke with several media outlets during Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month to share the research and help people recognize common signs and symptoms of uterine cancer. ... more

Hartenbach joins editorial board of Gynecologic Oncology

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Department Chair Ellen Hartenbach, MD, who was invited to join the editorial board of the journal Gynecologic Oncology! Gynecologic Oncology is an international journal devoted to the publication of clinical and investigative articles that concern tumors of the female reproductive tract. Gynecologic Oncology is an official journal of the Society ... more

Leadership transition in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology

Later this fall, the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology will undergo a leadership transition: Stephen Rose, MD, who has served as Division Director of Gynecologic Oncology since 2017, will step down from that role. Dr. Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS will become the new Division Director on November 13, 2023. Please help us thank Dr. Rose for his steadfast, supportive, and i... more

Barroilhet, Wallace co-author review article in Radiology

Associate Professor Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, and Associate Professor Sumer Wallace, MD, MS, co-authored a review article in the journal Radiology. In “Adnexal Lesion Imaging: Past, Present, and Future”, Barroilhet, Wallace, and co-authors discuss ways imaging has affected treatment of adnexal lesions, current data supporting the use of ultrasound, MRI, and CT imaging to diff... more

Wagar hosts episode of International Journal of Gynecologic Cancer podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD, guest-hosted an episode of the International Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast as part of his role as an editorial fellow for the journal! In the episode, Wagar and another editorial fellow outlined the contents of the July 2023 issue of the International Journal of Gynecologic Oncology. Listen to the whole episode ... more

Sobecki presents Healthy Women Community Talk “Straight Talk: Chemical Hair Straighteners and Reducing Your Risk of Uterine Cancer”

Recent research found that using chemical hair straighteners or relaxers may be linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer. On July 13, 2023, Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented the Healthy Women Community Talk “Straight Talk: Chemical Hair Straighteners and Reducing Your Risk of Uterine Cancer” to a lively audience ... more

Barroilhet appointed co-DOT leader of Chemoprevention

Congratulations to Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology! Barroilhet was appointed co-leader of the UW Carbone Cancer Center’s Chemoprevention Disease-Oriented Team. She will lead the team alongside Howard Bailey, MD, associate dean for oncology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and director of ... more

Spencer to present WCRGME Rural Medicine Grand Rounds on August 9

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Residency Program Director, will present the first-ever Wisconsin Collaborative for Rural GME Rural Medicine Grand Rounds on August 9, 2023!Spencer will present the lecture “Maternal Deserts” via Zoom from 12-1pm.Meeting ID: 895 0272 6489Passcode: 2023

Spencer accepted into AAMC 2023-2024 GME Leadership Development Certificate Program

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology as well as UW Ob-Gyn Residency Program Director and Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship Director, was selected to participate in the 2023-24 Association of American Medical Colleges GME Leadership Development Certificate Program.The GME Leadership Development Certificate helps participants build th... more

Spencer co-authors Dean’s Corner article on rural training in Wisconsin Medical Journal

Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Residency Program Director, co-authored an editorial piece in the latest issue of the Wisconsin Medical Journal about the importance of rural physician training with UW SMPH Dean Robert Golden, MD, and Department of Family Medicine and Community Health Assistant Professor Jillian Landeck, M... more

Zhang reflects on training time, shares what’s next after Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship

After three years of intense fellowship training in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Ran (Catherine) Zhang, MD, MPH, is preparing to graduate. Zhang shares what’s next after fellowship, the important lessons she will carry forward, and messages of gratitude for people who shaped her time in fellowship.What are you looking forward to about your next career step... more

Rose helps host Ukrainian surgeon at UW

In the spring of 2023, the UW Carbone Cancer Center and UW Department of Surgery hosted a Ukrainian surgeon for trauma care training. Dr. Olena Renkas, a surgical oncologist from Kyiv, Ukraine, spent four weeks of training in American trauma care standards. Stephen Rose, MD, director of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, was instrumental in supporting Dr. Renkas... more

Congratulations to winners of the 2023 UW Ob-Gyn department awards!

On June 15, 2023, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn held its annual awards ceremony, recognizing educational, research and administrative accomplishments throughout the year.The ceremony started by celebrating service milestones:Five Years:Carol Hulland - Administrative ManagerIrene Ong, PhD - Assistant ProfessorJennifer Karnowski, MD - Clinical Assistant ProfessorLaura Cooney, MD... more

Spencer brings chemotherapy shortages to legislators’ attention at House Cancer Caucus briefing

On June 6, Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, helped organize and participated in the Society of Gynecologic Oncology’s House Cancer Caucus briefing on chemotherapy shortages. Spencer is the chair of the SGO’s Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Committee.The briefing was co-sponsored by Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Rep. Brian H... more

Grand Rounds: Badger Bytes – Industry-Sponsored Trials in Ob-Gyn

On June 1, 2023, three members of the UW Department of Ob-Gyn with expertise in clinical research presented the Grand Rounds Badger Bytes session “Industry-Sponsored Trials in Ob-Gyn.”Clinical Research Manager Kellie Baumann, MS, presented “Industry-Sponsored Clinical Trials: An Overview”, during which she shared the benefits of participating in industry-sponsored trials.Div... more

Kushner elected to UWSMPH Academic Planning Council

Congratulations to Dave Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology! Kushner was recently elected to a three-year term on the UW School of Medicine and Public Health’s Academic Planning Council (APC).The APC advises the Dean’s Office on school programs and budgetary planning, including strategic and long-range planning for the SMPH, program review, and oth... more

Mojdehbakhsh selected as BIRCWH Women’s Health Scholar

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn resident and incoming gynecologic oncology fellow Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD! Mojdehbakhsh was selected to be a Women’s Health Scholar in the UW Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women’s Health (BIRCWH) program.As a Women’s Health Scholar, Mojdehbakhsh will have access to UW BIRCWH monthly seminars and research training opportunities, ... more

Residency leadership transition: Spencer to step down, Kelly to become Residency Program Director

Later this summer, the UW Ob-Gyn Residency Program will undergo a leadership transition – current Residency Program Director Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, will step down from this role. Bridget Kelly, MD, current associate residency program director, will become Residency Program Director on September 1, 2023. Please help us thank Dr. Spencer for his many years of incredible leaders... more

Register for free community talk on chemical hair straighteners and uterine cancer on July 13

Recent research found that using chemical hair straighteners or relaxers may be linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer. If you’ve used chemical hair relaxers in the past, join the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for a free, virtual Healthy Women Community Talk about reducing your uterine cancer ris... more

Barroilhet selected as 2023-2024 Hedwig van Ameringen Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine Program fellow

Huge congratulations to Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology! Barroilhet was selected as a 2023-24 Hedwig van Ameringen Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine® (ELAM) Program fellow!The ELAM Program, offered by the Drexel University College of Medicine, is a year-long, part-time fellowship for women faculty in schools of med... more

Sobecki talks about relationships and intimacy after 50 on Doctor Radio

Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and medical director of the UW Health Women's Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) Program, joined SiriusXM Doctor Radio on Monday, May 15 to discuss sex, relationships, and intimacy after age 50!Sobecki was a guest on the Doctor Radio’s Healthy Aging program, alongside UW Health AASECT certified se... more

Sobecki becomes Gynecology Disease-Oriented Team leader

Congratulations to Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology! Sobecki became the Gynecology Disease-Oriented Team (DOT) leader on May 15, 2023. She takes over from Department Chair Ellen Hartenbach, MD, who will stay on as co-leader during a transition period. DOTs are research groups embedded in specific UW Carbone Cancer Cen... more

Sobecki named as BIRWCH Scholar

Congratulations to Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, who was recently appointed to a fully funded position in the UW Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women’s Health (BIRCWH) program!The UW BIRCWH program provides interdisciplinary career development opportunities for a diverse cohort of early career faculty to fo... more

Rose delivers Katz Memorial Lecture to University of Pittsburgh Department of Ob-Gyn

On May 9, 2023, UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology Director Stephen Rose, MD, gave the David and Lenore Brundige Katz Memorial Lecture to the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine's Department of Ob-Gyn. Rose gave the presentation “Laughing in the face of Cancer: How humor may benefit patients.”The Katz Memorial Lecture is an annual event hosted for the UPMC De... more

Grand Rounds: Department Research Day 2023

On May 4, 2023, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn hosted Department Research Day. You can watch all the research presentations given that day here. Keynote by Genevieve Neal-Perry, MD, PhD – 0:00:00-1:01:45Menopause Management: Where are we now? Graduating Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellow Brad Bosse, MD – 1:01:46-1:20:45Preeclampsia: It’s in the water?Graduating Gynecologic Oncology... more

Rose receives UW Health Physician Excellence Award

Stephen Rose, MD, professor and director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, received the 2023 UW Health Regional Services Physician Excellence Award at a ceremony on May 3! The award recognizes physicians who exemplify UW Health’s strategic priority in providing extraordinary regional services care for patients at neighboring health care facilities in Wisconsin and bey... more

Sobecki and WISH program featured by UW Health

Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, discussed the importance of attention and conversation about sexual side effects of cancer treatment with UW Health in a new article about the UW Health Women’s Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) Program.Sobecki, who is medical director of the WISH Program, offered support and advice fo... more

Spencer receives SGO Congressional Ambassador Award

Congratulations to Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, who received the Society of Gynecologic Oncology Congressional Ambassador Award! Spencer received the award during the 2023 SGO Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer in March 2023.The Congressional Ambassador Award recognizes SGO members who have worked hard to educate ... more

Barroilhet, Giles, Iruretagoyena in Texas as Board Examiners

Three UW Ob-Gyn faculty served as ABOG subspecialty board examiners in Texas this year!Dobie Giles, MD, MS, MBA, professor in the Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and Igor Iruretagoyena, MD, MS, professor and director of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine,... more

UW Ob-Gyn presentations at 2023 Society of Gynecologic Oncology conference

UW Ob-Gyn faculty, advanced practice providers, fellows, and residents prepared an impressive slate of presentations and posters, and served in key leadership roles, for the 2023 Society of Gynecologic Oncology Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer! Here are just some of their exciting contributions to the conference, which took place March 25-28, 2023 in Tampa, FL:Associate Proe... more

Hartenbach elected to CUCOG Executive Board

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Department Chair Ellen Hartenbach, MD, who was elected to serve as Member-At-Large on the Council of University Chairs of Obstetrics and Gynecology (CUCOG) Executive Board. Hartenbach’s term begins during the 2023 CUCOG Annual Meeting in Baltimore, MD on May 18, 2023 and ends during the annual meeting in 2025.CUCOG is dedicated to supporting OB-G... more

Kushner selected to serve on UW-Madison Biological Sciences Tenure Committee

Congratulations to David Kushner, MD, professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology! In this spring’s UW-Madison faculty committee elections, Kushner was selected to serve on the Biological Sciences Divisional Committee. His term on the committee begins in July 2023.The Biological Sciences Divisional Committee, the executive committee of the Faculty Division of... more

Obstetrics and Gynecology features video demonstration of fluorescein mapping for Paget’s Disease

In February, UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellows Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH and Matt Wagar, MD, published a new Procedures and Instruments piece, “Fluorescein Mapping in Vulvar Paget Disease”, in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Co-authors on the article include Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and David Kushner, MD, professor in ... more

Faculty and residents attend 2023 ACOG Congressional Leadership Conference

UW Ob-Gyn faculty and residents learned about effective engagement and visited members of the Wisconsin congressional delegation during the 2023 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Congressional Leadership Conference March 5-7 in Washington, D.C.UW Ob-Gyn Residency Director and Associate Professor Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, Clerkship Coordinator and Assistant Prof... more

Wagar published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, featured on Green Journal Editors’ Picks podcast

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD, who coauthored a new study in Obstetrics and Gynecology! Wagar also joined the latest Obstetrics and Gynecology Editors’ Picks podcast to discuss his article “Postpartum Opportunistic Salpingectomy Compared With Bilateral Tubal Ligation After Vaginal Delivery for Ovarian Cancer Risk Reduction: A Cost-Ef... more

Rose to receive UW Health Regional Services Physician Excellence Award

Our sincere congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology Director Stephen Rose, MD, who will receive the 2023 UW Health Regional Services Physician Excellence Award at a ceremony on May 3, 2023!Rose was nominated by colleagues to receive the Regional Services Physician Excellence award, which recognizes physicians who exemplify UW Health’s strategic priority... more

Hartenbach nominated to Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society

Our sincere congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Department Chair and Professor Ellen Hartenbach, MD, who was nominated to join the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society as a Class of 2023 faculty inductee!Alpha Omega Alpha is a medical honor society that recognizes individuals for their excellence in scholarship, professionalism, leadership, and teaching. Each year, faculty members are s... more

Sobecki discusses sexual health and cancer on WPR’s The Morning Show

On March 1, 2023, Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, joined Wisconsin Public Radio’s The Morning Show to discuss a recent study from the UW Health Women’s Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) Clinic team and talk about sexual health after cancer. In the interview, Sobecki answered questions about what aspects of cancer care can affe... more

UW Ob-Gyn brings presentations, posters, film to 2023 CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting

The Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics hosted their 2023 Annual Meeting in National Harbor, MD February 27-March 1. Faculty, residents, fellows, students, and staff in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn brought a variety of presentations to this education-focused conference. Just some of their in... more

Zhang, Wagar publish in Obstetrics and Gynecology

UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellows Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH and Matt Wagar, MD, published a new Procedures and Instruments piece in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Co-authors on the article include Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and David Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.In “Fluorescein Mapping ... more

Rose invited to present Grand Rounds to Weill Cornell Department of Ob-Gyn

Steve Rose, MD, professor and Director of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented Grand Rounds to the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology on Monday, January 30! The Weill Cornell Ob-Gyn residents were allowed to select a Grand Rounds speaker for the first time, and Rose was their first choice! Rose presented the lecture “A Revised Markov Mo... more

Wagar discusses ERAS on SGO podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD, joined a panel of guests on the Society of Gynecologic Oncology’s SGO On the Go podcast to discuss Enhanced Recovery After Surgery!As part of a panel of 2022-2023 SGO Opioid/ERAS Subcommittee members, Wagar and others guests provided practical tips on developing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery programs that could be appli... more

Rash, Peterson, Sobecki, Kushner publish in Supportive Care in Cancer

​The UW Women’s Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) Clinic team of Joanne Rash, PA, Megan Peterson, DNP, Janelle Sobecki, MD, and David Kushner, MD published a new article in the journal Supportive Care in Cancer.In “Patient reported improvement in sexual health outcomes following care in a sexual health clinic for women with cancer", Rash and co-authors aimed to determine the ... more

Wallace promoted to Associate Professor (CHS)

In a unanimous decision, the UW School of Medicine and Public Health CHS Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committee approved the promotion of Sumer Wallace, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, to the rank of Associate Professor (CHS)!Wallace’s promotion will be effective June 18, 2023. Congratulations, Dr. Wallace!

Wang publishes study on digital cervicography in Gynecologic Oncology Reports

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn resident Connor Wang, MD, PGY-4, who published a new study in Gynecologic Oncology Reports! The study was a cooperative effort with the UW SMPH Department of Family Medicine and Community Health.In “Digital cervicography for cervical cancer screening in low-resource settings: A scoping review”, Wang and co-authors synthesized data from past studi... more

Residency alum Carballo publishes in Scientific Reports

Erica Carballo, MD, UW Ob-Gyn residency graduate in the class of 2021, published a new article in Scientific Reports! Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, is senior author on the article.In “Surgical outcomes of adnexal masses classified by IOTA ultrasound simple rules”, Carballo and co-authors conducted a retrospective study ... more

Spencer discusses rural GME opportunities with ACGME blog

As part of an ongoing series of interviews with programs offering rural graduate medical education experiences, UW Ob-Gyn Residency Program Director Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, spoke with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) about the successes and challenges of sustaining the nation’s first-ever rural ob-gyn residency track: ACGME: What advice do you h... more

Faculty Development Funding Feature: Wallace attends AAMC Early Career Women Faculty Leadership Development Seminar

Each fiscal year, the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Faculty Development Committee​ makes available a total of $10,000 for professional development. Faculty may submit applications at any time (until funds are exhausted for the current fiscal year).Sumer Wallace, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, used a Faculty Development Gr... more

Sobecki presents Carbone Cancer Center Grand Rounds

Janelle Sobecki, MD, MA, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented a Grand rounds lecture to the UW Carbone Cancer Center on January 11, 2023.In the presentation "What We Don't Talk About When We Don't Talk About Sex & Cancer", Sobecki provided attendees with an overview of sexual health and cancer as well as strategies to improve screening for ... more

Save the date: Department Research Day, May 4, 2023

Please join us for several exciting research presentations at Department Research Day, coming up May 4, 2023 from 7:00-10:00am. The event will be held in 1335 HSLC.Department Research Day will open with a keynote presentation from Genevieve Neal-Perry, MD, PhD, Robert A. Ross Distinguished Professor and Chair in the University of North Carolina School of Medicine Department ... more

Mojdehbakhsh published in Gynecologic Oncology Reports

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn resident (and soon-to-be gynecologic oncology fellow) Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD, PGY-4, who published a new study in Gynecologic Oncology Reports!In “Efficacy and safety of a restrictive blood transfusion protocol in gynecologic surgical patients”, Mojdehbakhsh and co-authors compared postsurgical outcomes for patients before and after the hospital... more

Sobecki appointed medical director of UW Health WISH Program

Janelle Sobecki, MD, MA, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, recently stepped into the role of medical director for the UW Health Women’s Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) Program. Congratulations, Dr. Sobecki!The WISH Program provides clinical consultation, resources, education, emotional support and appropriate referrals related to sexual health con... more

Wallace and Sampene to co-lead department’s Quality and Safety program

As part of the ongoing changes to the UW Department of Ob-Gyn’s Quality and Safety platform, Sumer Wallace, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and Katie Sampene, MD, associate professor in the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, will co-lead the Department of Ob-Gyn’s Quality Improvement Review Committee!Wallace was appointed the first-e... more

Zhang to join Division of Gynecologic Oncology faculty

The UW Department of Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology is thrilled to announce that Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH will join the faculty in September 2023!Dr. Zhang attended the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. While in Iowa, she also earned a Master’s in public health from the University of Iowa College of Public Health. She completed ob-gyn residency at the U... more

Hartenbach talks about hereditary cancer risk in article from Carbone Cancer Center

A recent article published by the UW Carbone Cancer Center shares one patient’s experience with ovarian and breast cancer related to BRCA genetic mutations. In the article, UW Ob-Gyn Department Chair and Professor of Gynecologic Oncology Ellen Hartenbach, MD, discusses hereditary cancer risk:“Hartenbach said it’s important for people to know their family history with cancer,... more

Barroilhet earns GWIMS Impact Award

Congratulations to Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology! Barroilhet earned the 2022 UW School of Medicine and Public Health Group on Women in Medicine and Science Impact Award! The award was presented at a ceremony on November 29, 2022.The Impact Award recognizes significant contributions with ongoing, substantive imp... more

Barroilhet presents keynote speech at Middleton Society event

On September 30, 2022, Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented the keynote speech at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health’s Middleton Society event.Barroilhet presented “Women Need Us Now: The Science and Strategy of Cancer Prevention” to an audience of UW SMPH alumni, friends, and supporters. In her ta... more

Barroilhet joins Crossing the Line podcast to discuss Dobbs’ impact on health care

On a recent episode of the new podcast Crossing the Line, Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, discussed Wisconsin’s abortion ban and the challenges of navigating the “life of the mother” exception.In the episode “A Matter of Life or Death”, Barroilhet talks about the lack of clarity that affects the kinds of health care patie... more

Huffman presents at HAGO conference

Laura Huffman, MD, assistant professor and newest member of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented at the Heartland Association of Gynecologic Oncology Annual Meeting in September!Huffman presented during the Tumor Board session at the HAGO conference in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she gave an excellent overview of PARP inhibitor therapy in ovarian cancer.C... more

Betancourt Ponce presents poster at SACNAS Conference

Congratulations to Mayra Betancourt Ponce, UW School of Medicine and Public Health MD/PhD student, who recently presented a poster at the SACNAS National Diversity in STEM Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico!Betancourt Ponce presented the poster “Characterizing T cell exhaustion in ovarian cancer ascites” during the three-day conference in late October. In addition to being ... more

Tamkus presents at 2022 HAGO meeting

UW Ob-Gyn resident Saule Tamkus, MD, PGY-2, presented at the Heartland Association of Gynecologic Oncology Annual Meeting in Ann Arbor, Michigan on September 29, 2022!Tamkus presented the abstract “Analysis of the Initial Years of Gynecologic Oncology Standardized Letters of Evaluation (SLOE) for Fellowship Applications” at the conference. UW Ob-Gyn Residency Program Directo... more

Grand Rounds: Barroilhet presents “The Dobbs Decision: Implications for Health Care in Wisconsin”

On October 6, 2022, UW Ob-Gyn Associate Professor Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS, presented the Grand Rounds lecture “The Dobbs Decision: Implications for Health Care in Wisconsin”.In the lecture, Barroilhet explained current law surrounding abortion care in Wisconsin, outlined some clinical situations where abortion would be legal under today’s law, and discussed access to abortio... more

Sobecki presents “Sex After Cancer: A Candid Discussion” Community Talk

On September 29, 2022, Janelle Sobecki, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, presented the Healthy Women Community Talk “Sex After Cancer: A Candid Discussion” to an engaged, enthusiastic group of community members.Along with Lori Seabourne, physician assistant in the UW Health Women’s Integrative Sexual Health (WISH) clinic, Sobecki pro... more

Kushner to become Vice Chair of Faculty Development, Education and Wellness

David Kushner, MD, Professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, has accepted the appointment of Vice Chair of Faculty Development, Education and Wellness. This appointment will be effective November 1, 2022!As Vice Chair of Faculty Development, Education and Wellness, Kushner will be integrally involved with the department’s faculty mentoring program, recruitment, facu... more

Kushner published in Gynecologic Oncology

Dave Kushner, MD, professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology, is senior author on a new publication in the journal Gynecologic Oncology.In “SGO and the elephant that is still in the room: Wellness, burnout and gynecologic oncology”, Kushner and co-authors analyzes survey responses from physician and advanced practice provider members of the Society of Gyneco... more

Wang published in AJOG

UW Ob-Gyn resident Connor Wang, MD, PGY-4, is the lead author on new research in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology!In “Trends in public- and industry-funded uterine cancer clinical trials and disability-adjusted life years from 2007 to 2019”, Wang and co-authors Shannon Rush, MD, Shitanshu Uppal, MD, Laurel Rice, MD, and Ryan Spencer, MD, MS queried a databas... more

Final Sparkle of Hope Gala draws dedicated crowd for cancer research

On September 16, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn hosted the final Sparkle of Hope Gala for gynecologic cancer research. More than 240 gynecologic cancer survivors, loved ones, health care providers, and other members of the gynecologic cancer community gathered at Monona Terrace to celebrate the incredible progress we’ve made in gynecologic cancer research over 14 years of hosti... more

Wagar discusses ERAS on SGO on the Go podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD joined other members of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology’s Opioid/Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) subcommittee on the SGO on the Go podcast in September to talk about ERAS.In the episode “Key Concepts of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. ERAS–Why Do We Do It?”, Wagar and other guests talked about key concepts and ... more

Welcome incoming Gynecologic Oncology fellow Rachel Mojdehbakhsh!

The UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellowship program is thrilled to announce Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD, has matched as the incoming 2023 Gynecologic Oncology fellow!Mojdehbakhsh completed medical school at Drexel University and is currently finishing ob-gyn residency in our department. Our selection committee was impressed by Dr. Mojdehbakhsh’s passion for medical education a... more

UW Ob-Gyn presents at ACOG District VI meeting

Many people from across the UW Department of Ob-Gyn were active participants in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists District VI annual meeting in Chicago September 16-18, 2022! Just a few of their amazing contributions:Ryan McDonald, MD, associate professor in the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, served as the District VI CME Representative on ... more

Congratulations to UW Health APP Excellence award nominees!

Please help us congratulate the incredible UW Ob-Gyn advanced practice providers who were nominated for 2022 UW Health Advanced Practice Provider Excellence Awards!Ann Baggot, WHNP, Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn – nominated for the Excellence in Teaching AwardAngela Sergeant, NP, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery – nominated for the U... more

Spencer presents at AMGO meeting in Chicago

Ryan Spencer, MD, associate professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology and director of the UW Ob-Gyn Residency Program, presented at the 2022 Association of Managers of Gynecology and Obstetrics annual meeting in Chicago!Spencer presented “Rural Residency Programs” to a full, attentive room during a one-hour session on Monday, September 26. Incredible work, ... more