Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

CORE researchers publish conference abstracts in Contraception

Faculty, researchers and trainees in the UW Collaborative for Reproductive Equity brought posters and presentations to the 2022 Society of Family Planning annual meeting in Baltimore, MD in December. Three abstracts presented at the conference were published in Contraception!Characterizing physician concerns with publicly supporting abortion – AS Cutler, LT Swan, M Lands, NB... more
Reproductive and Population Health Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Research Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Laura Jacques Jenny Higgins Madison Lands

Women’s Healthcast: Robotic-Assisted Surgery, featuring Laura Hanks, MD

On a recent episode of the Women’s Healthcast, Laura Hanks, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, discussed different ways surgery can be performed, with a focus on robotic-assisted surgery.In the episode, Hanks talked about how robotic surgery works, what kinds of procedures in the ob-gyn world can and can’t be performed with t... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Outreach Podcast Jacquelyn Askins Rob Garza Laura Hanks

In the News: Cutler talks stigma and challenges in post-Dobbs Wisconsin

Abby Cutler, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, spoke with Grid News and appeared on a Wisconsin Health News panel about challenges to accessing abortion care in recent weeks.More doctors are speaking out against abortion bans ahead of the 2022 midterm elections – Grid NewsIn this article, Cutler talks about how stigma may sw... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

In the News: Jacques discusses impacts of Dobbs decision on medical education

Since the United States Supreme Court decision in June 2022 overturned Roe v. Wade, medical schools and ob-gyn residencies have struggled with the question of how abortion restrictions will affect training programs. Laura Jacques, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn and UW SMPH ob-gyn clerkship director, discussed challenges to... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Laura Jacques

Swan, Cutler, Higgins in publish study in AJOG

A new article in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology uses data from a 2019 survey of UW SMPH physicians to assess physicians’ understanding of whether contraceptive methods work by causing abortion. Laura Swan, PhD, LCSW, postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Population Health Sciences Green Inequality Lab, is first author on the study.In “Physic... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive and Population Health Publication Research Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jenny Higgins

Cutler talks about post-Dobbs impacts on ob-gyn training with WPR

A recent article published by Wisconsin Public Radio discusses the challenges facing ob-gyn and family medicine physicians after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision earlier this year, including uncertainty around how Wisconsin’s law criminalizing abortion will be enforced.In “While enforceability of 1849 abortion ban is debated, health experts worry about OB-GYN recruitm... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

Jacques discusses Dobbs’ impact on ob-gyn residency applicants with Hechinger Report

As medical students consider which residency programs to apply to this year, some may add a new consideration to the mix: whether abortion training is available in the states where they apply.In an article published by The Hechinger Report, “Overturning Roe created new barriers, not just to abortion, but to OB-GYN training”, UW Ob-Gyn Assistant Professor Laura Jacques, MD, d... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Laura Jacques

Cutler discusses Dobbs’ impact on patient autonomy with New York Times

Abby Cutler, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, spoke with the New York Times as part of an article examining the impact of abortion bans in Wisconsin, Arizona, and Texas.“Medical Impact of Roe Reversal Goes Well Beyond Abortion Clinics, Doctors Say” outlines the way abortion bans can affect pregnancy care, cancer care, emerg... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

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
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Gynecologic Oncology Education Residency Fellowship Ryan McDonald Heidi Brown Matthew Wagar

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
Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Gynecologic Oncology Joanne Rash Ann Baggot Angela Sergeant

UW Ob-Gyn celebrates National Advanced Practice Provider Week!

​National Advanced Practice Providers Week is September 26-30, 2022! Please join us in learning a little bit more about some of the incredible APPs who support the clinical, educational, and research missions in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn and thanking them for their expertise, excellence, and dedication! [image]ObGyn News Files/CNM1.png[/image] [image]ObGyn News Files/CNM... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Gynecologic Oncology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Sari Archer Ann Baggot Jasmin Barthel Krystal Boardman Cally Christenson Kira Connolly-Nelson Hannah Copp Anastasia Doherty Denise Fryzelka Emelle Holmes-Drammeh Kristina Krueger Laura Kwitek Monica Orji Megan Peterson Joanne Rash Melinda Rose Melanie Schmuhl Angela Sergeant Nicole Shapiro Jeanmarie Sharp Jodi Wagner Shelly Weisheipl Anna Yearous-Algozin

Cutler to take over as Ryan Residency Program director

Later this year, Abigail Cutler, MD, MPH, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, will become director of the Ryan Residency Program. She will take over from Associate Professor Eliza Bennett, MD, who has led the program since 2010.The Ryan Residency Program “works directly with ob-gyn residency programs to integrate training in abort... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Education Residency Eliza Bennett

Jacques publishes in AJOG

In a new article in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Laura Jacques, MD, assistant professor in the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, examines types of bacteria found at surgical site infections (SSIs) to help inform prophylactic antibiotic choices. In “Characterization of bacterial composition of surgical site infections after gynecologi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Research Laura Jacques

Cutler published in Women’s Health Issues

UW Ob-Gyn Assistant Professor Abigail Cutler, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, published a randomized trial in Women’s Health Issues.In “The Impact of First-Person Abortion Stories on Community-Level Abortion Stigma: A Randomized Trial”, Cutler and co-authors randomized participants to view either three video stories about someone’s abortion experience,... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Research

In the News: Bennett discusses post-Roe realities

Since the United States Supreme Court overturned the constitutionally protected right to abortion on June 24, 2022, UW Ob-Gyn Associate Professor Eliza Bennett, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, discussed post-Roe realities in Wisconsin with several news outlets:With abortion blocked, what happens to the health of the mother? – Wisconsin ExaminerIn an ar... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Eliza Bennett

In the News: Cutler shares insight in post-Roe reporting

Since the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization on June 24, overturning the constitutionally protected right to abortion, UW Ob-Gyn Assistant Professor Abigail Cutler, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, has spoken with many news outlets to discuss what that decision could mean for the futu... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

Jacques discusses challenges in medical education with Wisconsin State Journal

When the United States Supreme Court issued its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization and overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, clinics in Wisconsin stopped offering abortion services. That raises questions about ob-gyn resident education in the state.In “Medical residents struggle to receive training after Planned Parenthood halts abortion s... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Laura Jacques

Green, Cutler, Jacques discuss Wisconsin’s post-Roe future with Wisconsin Watch

Three UW Ob-Gyn faculty joined Wisconsin Watch in an audio interview on July 18 to discuss the current landscape of reproductive health care in Wisconsin after the United States Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Wisconsin Watch hosted the conversation on Twitter, which you can listen to here. Assistant Professor Abby Cutler, MD, of the Division of Academic ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive and Population Health Laura Jacques Tiffany Green

Cutler and Higgins discuss possible impacts of Roe decision on physician training

A recent article in the Wisconsin Examiner investigated potential difficulties for physician training programs after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.“Medical training programs teach abortion procedures. What happens if abortion is outlawed?” outlines the national standards for training set by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), whi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive and Population Health Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jenny Higgins

Brown, Williams published in AJOG

Heidi Brown, MD, MAS, interim Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Director, and Makeba Williams, MD published a new article in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Williams presented the research in this article at the annual Society of Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology conference in May, where it earned the fir... more
Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Research Brown Research Team Heidi Brown Makeba Williams

Congratulations to winners of UW Ob-Gyn 2022 department awards!

On June 23, 2022, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn held its annual awards ceremony, recognizing educational, research and administrative accomplishments throughout the year.The ceremony started by acknowledging a few momentous departures. Many people retired from the department this academic year, including:Carol Carr, CNM (Midwife in the ASOG Division)Janet Short (Medical Studen... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Gynecologic Oncology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Reproductive Sciences Education Residency Fellowship Research Connor Wang Maya Gross Matthew Wagar Ushma Patel Talya Spivak Jordan Ward Kaley Gyorfi Megan Peterson Christy Lincicum Chad Craighill Lisa Scott Ariel Sorenson Patrice Grzebielski Luther Gaston Ian Bird

Wisconsin Watch interviews UW Ob-Gyn faculty on abortion laws

Wisconsin Watch, a nonprofit news organization, recently published two articles about the complex future of abortion in Wisconsin and physician opinions on why abortion is a necessary part of health care. UW Ob-Gyn faculty shared their expertise in both articles.“Wisconsin faces a ‘tangled series’ of abortion laws dating back to 1849 as it heads into a possible post-Roe futu... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive and Population Health Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jenny Higgins

2022 Department Research Day

On May 26, 2022, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn hosted Department Research Day, which included many research presentations from across the Department.Jeffrey Peipert, MD, chair of the Indiana University School of Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, kicked off Department Research Day with the keynote presentation “The Contraceptive CHOICE Project to Path4You: Les... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Gynecologic Oncology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Reproductive and Population Health Education Fellowship Research Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jennifer Jacobson Shannon Rush Laura Jacques

UW Ob-Gyn research and presentations at 2022 ACOG Annual Meeting

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists held the Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting in San Diego May 6-8, 2022. Faculty, fellows and residents in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn brought many exciting presentations and projects to the conference. Read more about some of their awesome accomplishments:Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Wi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Gynecologic Oncology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Education Research Residency Fellowship Diversity Equity Inclusion Jacquelyn Adams Kathleen Antony Amy Godecker Maya Gross Christine Heisler Jennifer Jacobson Jennifer Janik John Poehlmann Stephen Rose Shannon Rush Katherine Sampene Matthew Wagar Makeba Williams

Williams earns 1st place oral abstract award at SASGOG conference

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD presented “BP Connect: Referring Gynecology Patients with Elevated Blood Pressure to Primary Care Follow-up” during the Society of Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology Annual Meeting in San Diego on May 5, 2022.Williams’ presentation earned the First Place Oral Presentation... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Makeba Williams

Lick and BME students earn SMPH/BME Tech Collaborative Innovation Award

Our congratulations to Jay Lick, DO, and UW-Madison biomedical engineering students Elizabeth Wacker, Nesya Graupe, Sakina Tariq, Lauren Hicks, Annika Rossebo, and UWSMPH medical student Ansley Hartney, who earned the Biomedical Engineering and UW SMPH Tech Collaborative Innovation Award!The team earned the award for their project “Elevator for the Impacted Fetal Head During... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

Faculty Development Funding Feature: Katie Sampene, MD

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).Read more about Dr. Katie Sampene’s experience with the Faculty Development Funding Program, and learn how you can apply... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Katherine Sampene

UW Ob-Gyn prepares posters, presentations for SASGOG Annual Meeting

The Society of Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology Annual Meeting, coming up in May 2022, will include exciting presentations and posters from faculty and residents in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn! Some of the great work that will be featured at the conference:Presentation:UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD,... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Research Education Residency Heidi Brown Emily Buttigieg Bridget Kelly Matthew Wagar Makeba Williams Katherine Sampene

Presentations, posters, and more at the 2022 CREOG/APGO Annual Meeting!

UW Ob-Gyn faculty, residents, and affiliated medical students with interest and expertise in medical education showcased their work at the CREOG/APGO Annual Meeting​! The conference, which was organized around the theme “Together Again, Together Forever: Med Ed Family Reunion”, took place in Orlando, Florida March 9-12. Some of the exciting highlights from our department:Rya... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Gynecologic Oncology Education Research Residency Ryan McDonald Ryan Spencer Laura Jacques Daniel Pellicer John Poehlmann Amy Godecker Kaley Gyorfi Heidi Brown Katharina Stewart

Faculty Development Feature: McDonald graduates from APGO Academic Scholars and Leaders program

Ryan McDonald, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, graduated from the American Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics Academic Scholars and Leaders Program during the 2022 APGO/CREOG annual meeting! McDonald used funding from the UW Ob-Gyn Faculty Development Committee’s Faculty Development Funding Program to support his experience in the APGO p... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Ryan McDonald

Peebles highlighted by WISC-TV, UW Health and SMPH

Jackie Peebles, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, was featured in stories and social media posts from WISC-TV Madison, the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, and UW Health during Black History Month.In “UW Health working to improve healthcare equity”, an article on WISC-TV’s website, Peebles discussed her work with the UW SMPH Building Eq... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Jacqueline Peebles

Sharp gives keynote speech at 3rd annual Butterfly Ball

On Saturday, February 26, Kristen Sharp, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn gave the keynote address at the 3rd annual Butterfly Ball, an event that raises awareness and provides hope and healing to families that have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.Hosted by the Alana Rose Foundation, the event included a virtual program, silent auction, an... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Kristen Sharp

Gaston published in Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine

Luther Gaston, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, is senior author on a new article in the most recent issue of the Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine!“Prediction of Vaginal Delivery Using Intrapartum Transperineal Ultrasound”, co-authored by Jackie Adams, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine as well as UW Ob-Gyn residency a... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Publication Luther Gaston

Wagar published in Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine

A new article in the latest issue of the Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine looks at rates of removal of fallopian tubes during postpartum sterilization procedures.“Trends in Postpartum Opportunistic Salpingectomy During Vaginal Delivery Admissions”, by UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 and co-authors Amy Godecker, PhD, Maria Landeros, Lisa Barroilhet, MD MS, and Mak... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Gynecologic Oncology Education Publication Residency Research Lisa Barroilhet Amy Godecker Makeba Williams Matthew Wagar

Heisler published in Journal of Surgical Education

What can professional introductions before Grand Rounds lectures tell us about hierarchical, gender, or descriptive bias? A new article in the Journal of Surgical Education aims to find out.“Professional Address during Obstetrics and Gynecology Grand Rounds Introductions: Setting the Stage, Setting the Standard”, by Christine Heisler, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of FPMRS, ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Publication Research Christine Heisler Emily Buttigieg

Williams’ research earns DFMCH Small Grant

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD, is a co-investigator on a study that recently earned a UW SMPH Department of Family Medicine and Community Health Small Grant!Williams is co-PI on “African American Women’s Experiences of Menopause: A Focus Group Study” with WREN Medical Director Sarina Schrager, MS, MS, WREN Associate Directo... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Makeba Williams

Williams to present special lecture at ACOG Clinical and Scientific Meeting

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD will present a special endowed lecture at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting this May! Williams will present the Morton and Diane Stenchever Lecture “The Women’s Health Initiative: Controversy, Confusion, Consensus” at the opening of t... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Makeba Williams

Women’s Healthcast: “Know Your STIs: Syphilis”, featuring Ryan Luellwitz, DO

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, rates of the sexually transmitted infection syphilis have been climbing across the country. In Wisconsin in particular, the state’s Department of Health Services recently recommended pregnant people be screened twice during pregnancy for syphilis, which can have significant affects on fetal health and development.On this epi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Outreach Podcast Jacquelyn Askins Rob Garza Ryan Luellwitz

Women’s Healthcast: Understanding Your Breast Health, with Laura Bozzuto

About one in eight U.S. women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re replaying this interview with Laura Bozzuto, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn. Bozzuto is double certified in ob-gyn and breast cancer surgery.In the episode, Bozzuto talks about breast cancer symptoms, the latest in... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Outreach Podcast Jacquelyn Askins Laura Bozzuto Rob Garza

Kwitek and Sergeant nominated for UW Health APP Excellence Awards

During National Advanced Practice Provider Week in October, UW Health recognized outstanding clinicians across the institution with the APP Excellence Awards. Two incredible APPs from the UW Department of Ob-Gyn were nominated for awards – please help us congratulate them!Laura Kwitek, DNP, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, was nominated for a Leadership Awa... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Laura Kwitek Angela Sergeant

Higgins and Jacques publish in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

A recent article published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health by UW Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Director Jenny Higgins, PhD, MPH, Laura Jacques, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, and co-authors, used anonymized data from an online forum to examine how cost-related barriers affect peoples’ ability ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive and Population Health Publication Research Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jenny Higgins Laura Jacques

Welcome Ryan Luellwitz, DO!

Please help us welcome Ryan Luellwitz, DO, to the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn! Luellwitz comes to us from SSM Health, where his work with our UW Ob-Gyn residents earned him the St. Mary’s Adjunct Faculty Educator Award in 2021. Luellwitz earned his DO from Midwestern University, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, followed by osteopathic intern... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Ryan Luellwitz

Welcome Cholene Espinoza, MD!

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn is pleased to welcome Cholene Espinoza, MD to our faculty as of October 1, 2021!Espinoza earned an MD from the St. George’s University School of Medicine, followed by an obstetrics and gynecology residency at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Espinoza recently completed a surgical critical care fellowship at ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

Brown, Williams featured at national conference on dissemination and implementation in health

Two faculty from the UW Department of Ob-Gyn were featured at the 14th Annual Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation in Health (D&I), co-hosted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and AcademyHealth. Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists Director Makeba Williams, MD and Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Residency Research Brown Research Team Heidi Brown Alexandra Andes Makeba Williams

Williams talks about hormones and menopause on Well Wisconsin Radio

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD appeared on a recent episode of Well Wisconsin Radio to address some myths about hormones.During the interview, Williams discussed the primary hormones active in women’s bodies, why hormone testing is rarely recommended, how to recognize common signs and symptoms of menopause, and more.Listen t... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Makeba Williams

Jennings promoted to Clinical Associate Professor

Please join us in congratulating Ashley Jennings, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn! The UW SMPH Clinician Teacher Track Appointments and Promotions Committee voted overwhelmingly to approve Jennings’ promotion to Clinical Associate Professor.The promotion will be effective July 1, 2022. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Dr. Jennings! more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Ashley Jennings

Jacques publishes in AJOG

A new article in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology analyzed posts on Reddit to help better document peoples’ decision-making processes regarding abortion modality. “Medication or surgical abortion? An exploratory study of patient decision making on a popular social media platform”, by Laura Jacques, MD and other researchers from the UW Collaborative for Repr... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Publication Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Laura Jacques

Brown, Williams edit book on older women’s health

What happens when two world-class experts on menopause and pelvic floor disorders work together? They literally write the book on older women’s health concerns. Heidi Brown, MD, MAS, of our Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, and Makeba Williams, MD, Director of our Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, edited the book “Challenges in Older W... more
Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Residency Education Heidi Brown Makeba Williams Laura Bozzuto

Congratulations to winners of 2021 UW Ob-Gyn department awards!

On June 24, 2021, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn held its annual awards ceremony, recognizing educational, research and administrative accomplishments throughout the year. The ceremony started by acknowledging a few momentous departures: Klaus Diem, MD is retiring after many years of service in the department. Diem is a past director of the Division of Gynecology, and served a... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship Education Kristen Sharp Sumer Wallace Ruth Yemane Jennifer Karnowski Shannon Rush Ahmed Al-Niaimi Heidi Brown Kristina Warner Amy Williamson Madeline Wetterhahn Matthew Wagar Ushma Patel Lauren Montemorano Erin Bailey

McDonald published in Neurotoxicology and Teratology

Ryan McDonald, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, co-authored a recent publication in Neurotoxicology and Teratology! “A socioecological framework for engaging substance-using pregnant persons in longitudinal research: Multi-stakeholder perspectives” sought feedback from community stakeholders, including people with lived experience of subst... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Publication Ryan McDonald

Farewell to nurse midwives Kiley Hewett and Carol Carr

The UW Ob-Gyn certified nurse midwife team has announced two upcoming departures. Please join us in thanking these wonderful nurse midwives for the exceptional care they provided during their time with our department! Kiley Hewett will join a practice in Bend, Oregon this August to be closer to extended family. She has been a wonderful member of our team for the past two an... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Kiley Hewett Carol Carr

Grand Rounds: Sampene presents “Leveraging Quality Improvement to Promote Health Equity”

Katie Sampene, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, presented the Grand Rounds lecture “Leveraging Quality Improvement to Promote Health Equity” to the department on May 27, 2021. In the lecture, Sampene described the principles of health equity and how they relate to medical practice, walked through the basic process of quality improvement, and ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Grand Rounds Diversity Equity Inclusion Katherine Sampene

Women’s Healthcast: Yemane discusses transgender health care in ob-gyn settings

Ruth Yemane, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, is one of our department’s leading experts in gender affirming surgery and gynecologic care for transgender people. On this episode, Yemane shares recommendations for safe, trust-filled patient-provider relationships, and what surgical, clinical and preventive health care can look like for trans a... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Outreach Podcast Diversity Equity Inclusion Jacquelyn Askins Rob Garza Ruth Yemane

Williams promoted to Associate Professor (CHS)

We are thrilled to announce that UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD has been promoted to Associate Professor (CHS)! The UW the School of Medicine and Public Health CHS Faculty Appointments and Promotions Committee unanimously endorsed her promotion, which will be effective July 1, 2021. Williams joined the UW Department of Ob-G... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Makeba Williams

McDonald published in Neurotoxicology and Teratology

Congratulations to Ryan McDonald, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, who recently co-authored an article published in Neurotoxicology and Teratology! The paper “Recruitment and retention of pregnant women in prospective birth cohort studies: A scoping review and content analysis of the literature” sought to review the literature for best practi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Publication Ryan McDonald

Jennings shares insights on HPV and Pap testing with Insider

In a new article from Insider, Ashley Jennings, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, helps answer some common questions about Pap and HPV testing. Jennings helps explain what people can expect during the test, what happens to samples after they’re collected, and when to expect results from the tests. The article also includes updated guidelines o... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Ashley Jennings

Women’s Healthcast: Emergency Contraception, featuring Molly Lepic

Discussions around emergency contraception often include some myths and misunderstandings. Even the nickname of the morning-after pill gives us an inaccurate sense of emergency contraception’s effective timeframe. Molly Lepic, DO, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, joined the Women’s Healthcast to help clear up some common questions about emergenc... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Podcast Outreach Molly Lepic Jacquelyn Askins Rob Garza

Women’s Healthcast: Jacques talks Vulvar Health, Care and Cleaning

On the latest episode of the UW Ob-Gyn podcast, Laura Jacques, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, discussed vulvar health, care and cleaning. She talked about how to care for vulvas and vaginas, what products are safe to use, how vulvar health can change with age, and more. Listen to Vulvar Health, Care and Cleaning now! Did you know the Women’s Healthca... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Podcast Outreach Laura Jacques Jacquelyn Askins Rob Garza

Racine published in Wisconsin Medical Journal

A new study published in the Wisconsin Medical Journal by UW Ob-Gyn maternal-fetal medicine fellow Jenna Racine, MD sought to survey birthing centers in Wisconsin to better understand barriers to disclosing their level of maternal care. The article was co-authored by UW-Madison Prevention Research Center Deputy Director Kate Gillespie, DNP, Cynthie Wautlet, MD, of the UW Ob-... more
Fellowship Education Research Publication Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Jenna Racine Kathleen Antony Kate Gillespie

Wagar published in Green Journal

In a new publication in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-3 compared operative outcomes of postpartum tubal ligation and bilateral salpingectomy. Co-authors on the article include UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists Director Makeba Williams, MD, and Amy Godecker, PhD. The retrospective study “Postpartum Salpingectomy Compar... more
Residency Education Research Publication Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Matthew Wagar Makeba Williams Amy Godecker

UW Ob-Gyn brings research, developments to 2021 SMFM Conference

Faculty, residents, fellows, researchers and more brought numerous posters and presentations to the virtual 2021 Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Annual Meeting at the end of January! Learn more about the wealth of research shared by our colleagues at the conference: PRESENTATION: Racial disparities in post-operative pain experience and treatment following cesarean birt... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Research Residency Fellowship Diversity Equity Inclusion Jacquelyn Adams Kathleen Antony Bradley Bosse Luther Gaston Amy Godecker Tiffany Green Kara Hoppe J. Igor Iruretagoyena Alexa Lowry John Poehlmann Jenna Racine Janine Rhoades Matthew Wagar

Antony’s OBLido study published in AJOG MFM

A study by Katie Antony, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, was published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology – Maternal-Fetal Medicine! Jackie Adams, MD, of the MFM Division, and Laura Jacques, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, co-authored the study. “Lidocaine patches for postcesarean pain control in obese women... more
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Research Publication Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Kathleen Antony Jacquelyn Adams Laura Jacques

Williams talks vaginal atrophy prevention with Health Central

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD spoke with Health Central for an article on preventing and lessening vaginal atrophy with menopause. In the article, Williams shares tips like talking about atrophy with health care providers (and bringing it up with patients) before it becomes a concern, being thoughtful about garment choice,... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Makeba Williams

Gaston, Hoppe, Spencer earn UW Health Excellence Awards

Three faculty from the UW Department of Ob-Gyn were honored at the UW Health Physician Excellence Awards ceremony on December 7, 2020. The virtual ceremony recognized recipients of 17 excellence awards across the health system. Recipients in our department: Luther Gaston, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, received the UW Health Physician Excellence Risi... more
Gynecologic Oncology Maternal-Fetal Medicine Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Ryan Spencer Kara Hoppe Luther Gaston

Higgins, Schmuhl, Wautlet, Rice publish in American Journal of Public Health

Findings from a UW Collaborative for Reproductive Equity study on how doctors view access to abortion has been published in the December issue of the American Journal of Public Health. In the research-based editorial “The Importance of Physician Concern and Expertise in Increasing Abortion Health Care Access in Local Contexts”, Jenny Higgins, PhD, Nicholas Schmuhl, PhD, Cynt... more
Reproductive and Population Health Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Collaborative for Reproductive Equity Jenny Higgins Nicholas Schmuhl Laurel Rice

Sampene promoted to Clinical Associate Professor

Our sincere congratulations to Katherine Sampene, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn! The SMPH Clinician Teacher Track Appointments and Promotions Committee endorsed Sampene’s promotion to the rank of Clinical Associate Professor, effective July 2021. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Katherine Sampene

Wautlet matches into UC Denver MFM fellowship!

We’re so proud to announce that Cynthie Wautlet, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, matched into the University of Colorado Denver Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship! We’re also rather sad that she’ll be leaving Madison for Colorado next summer. Wautlet’s extensive experience as an excellent physician will make her an asset to the University of... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology

Gaston earns UW Health Rising Star Clinical Educator award!

Luther Gaston, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, earned the UW Health Physician Excellence Rising Star – Clinical Educator Award! Huge congratulations on this incredible achievement, Dr. Gaston! The Physician Excellence Clinical Educator award recognizes outstanding educators, with significant emphasis on teaching residents and medical student... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Luther Gaston

Jacques publishes in Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey

In a new publication in Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey, Laura Jacques, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn reviews available evidence to compile best practices for diagnosis and treatment of genital lichen planus. “Diagnosis and Management of Vulvovaginal Lichen Planus” provides guidance for health care professionals to differentiate betwee... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Laura Jacques

Bozzuto publishes executive summary of Early-Onset Breast Cancer Evidence Review Conference, commentary

In 2018, Laura Bozzuto, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, was invited to join the ACOG Breast Cancer Evidence Review Panel to review the current evidence on how best to educate women’s healthcare providers about early onset breast cancer, publish a literature review, and serve as content experts in the development of scripts for provider educat... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Publication Laura Bozzuto

Williams shares important mammogram info with InStyle

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD spoke with InStyle about important breast health updates in September.In “Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Mammogram”, Williams helps demystify recommendations for when people should start seeking mammograms (and why opinions differ between some professional organizations), how to ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Makeba Williams

Welcome Camille Ladanyi, MD

Camille Ladanyi, MD, has joined the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn as a minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon. Her clinical interests include endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, uterine fibroids, and complex pelvic conditions.Ladanyi attended medical school at the University of Colorado, completed her ob-gyn residency in Portland, ME at the Maine Medic... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Camille Ladanyi

Jacques published in journal Contraception

Laura Jacques, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, published an article in a recent edition of the journal Contraception!In “Complication rates of dilation and evacuation and labor induction in second-trimester abortion for fetal indications: A retrospective cohort study”, Jacques compared complication rates of dilation and evacuation (D&E) to mi... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Research Publication Laura Jacques

Williams, Brown are collaborators on UW ICTR D&I Research pilot award

Huge congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD, and Heidi Brown, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery! Williams and Brown will be collaborators on a new Dissemination and Implementation Research pilot award from the UW-Madison Institute for Clinical and Translational Rese... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Brown Research Team Heidi Brown Makeba Williams

Carr reaches 30 years of service!

We would like to extend our sincere congratulations and deep gratitude to Carol Carr, CNM, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn! Carr recently passed an important career milestone – 30 years of sharing expertise and caring for patients as a certified nurse midwife with UW Health!ASOG Division Director Makeba Williams, MD, has this to say of Carr: “She ... more
Academic Specialists In Obstetrics and Gynecology Carol Carr