Dr. Chapa's OBGYN No Spin Podcast

Within the last few days, there has been breaking news regarding the war on gonorrhea. (zoliflodacin) was FDA approved on December 13, 2025, and Blujepa (gepotidacin) was FDA approved on December 11, 2025.These new oral treatments are particularly important given the global rise in gonococcal drug resistance and the convenience they offer over injectable options, potentially improving patient adherence and public health outcomes. Listen in for details.

1. FDA News Release. FDA Approves Two Oral Therapies to Treat Gonorrhea. fda.gov

2. Innoviva Specialty Therapeutics. U.S. FDA Approves NUZOLVENCE® (zoliflodacin), a First-in-Class, Single-Dose Oral Antibiotic, for the Treatment of U...

It’s so interesting to see how medical evidence evolves, and changes, over time. The result of course is that clinical practice evolves and changes as well. The story of umbilical cord management at time of delivery highlights this very issue very well. The ACOG first recommended delayed cord clamping (DCC) in 2012, for preterm infants, as data showed marked improvement in neonatal outcomes in that population. In this episode, we will briefly walk through the timeline from 2012 to the latest update on DCC which came from the AAP in October 2025, just one month after the ACOG had their DCC up...

Podcast Family, we have covered PCOS on this show many times in the past; and yet- again, there is new information! A new publication from AJOG (Gray journal) describes a new meta-analysis on preconception/continued metformin use in the first trimester. Is this helpful? How does this contrast with the 2023 international guidance update on PCOS? Listen in for details.

1. ASRM: Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (2023)

2. Cheshire J, Garg A, Smith P, Devall AJ, Coomarasamy A, Dhillon-Smith RK. Preconception and first-trimester metformin on pregnancy outcomes in...

Major health organizations, including the CDC and ACOG, recommend universal Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) screening for all pregnant women during each pregnancy and at time of delivery. Ideally, pregnant women should be screened for hepatitis C virus infection at the first prenatal visit of each pregnancy. If the antibody screen result is positive, hepatitis C virus RNA polymerase chain reaction testing is done to confirm the diagnosis. The risk of perinatal transmission of HCV is up to 9%, with at least one-third of transmissions occurring antenatally. While antiviral therapy is recommended for Hepatitis B in pregnancy with a viral load...

Welcome to the no spin podcast. In today's episode, we're tackling a subject that's gaining traction but carries significant risks: the freebirth and wildbirth movement. We'll explore the rising trends of unassisted childbirth, where individuals choose to forgo professional medical care during labor and delivery- or during the prenatal period altogether, and the potential devastating outcomes associated with these practices. Join us as we unpack the motivations behind these choices, the lack of evidence supporting their safety, and the serious harms that can arise for both parent and baby. We'll be examining medical guidelines, and real-world consequences to provide...

In 2024, the ASCCP updated their guidance to include Dual Stain technology as part of primary HPV cervical cancer screening. Now, on December 4, 2025, the ACS has updated their guidance regarding patient self-collection of vaginal specimens for primary HPV screening. This is fascinating and proves medicine moves fast! Should a negative self-collection test result have a repeat screen in 1, 3 or 5 years, or later? Listen in for details.

1. Self-collected vaginal specimens for human papillomavirus testing and guidance on screening exit: An update to the American Cancer Society cervical cancer screening guideline

2. https://open.spotify.com/episode/5x4J3...

In the original Løvset maneuver (described for breech presentations), the fetus is rotated in one direction to facilitate arm delivery. For shoulder dystocia, the reverse Løvset applies rotation in the opposite direction—specifically rotating the posterior shoulder toward a "belly down" position through up to 180 degrees of rotation. These maneuvers were first described by Norwegian obstetrician Jørgen Løvset in the 1940s. Now, in the current November 2025 AJOG, this maneuver is back in the spotlight. In this episode, we will review the reverse Løvset maneuver for shoulder dystocia and review its effectiveness. Which maneuver is more li...

Misoprostol, as an E1 prostaglandin, is primarily used in obstetrics for cervical ripening (when the Bishop Score is under 6) and/or for labor INDUCTION (to begin labor). IV oxytocin is the principal agent used to augment labor, as needed, once labor has begun. In the US, misoprostol is not typically used after 4-6 cm cervical dilation. However, in a patient who requires augmentation, and who declines Pitocin while asking or oral misoprostol, can that be used? Is that evidence-based? The data may surprise you. Listen in for details.

1. SOGC Guideline No. 432c: Induction of Labour Robinson, Debbie...

Actinomyces species are considered part of the normal vaginal and urogenital tract flora. The percentage of Pap smears containing Actinomyces-like organisms varies but is most commonly reported as approximately 7% among women using IUDs. That number is supported by multiple sources, including the Infectious Diseases Society of America guideline and several clinical studies. The incidence can be higher or lower depending on the type of IUD; for example, copper IUDs have been associated with rates up to 20%, while levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs show lower rates around 2.9%. In women with an IUD, who are found to have this finding on their liquid-based Pap...

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects approximately 5% of couples and is an emotional burden on those affected. There is some evidence that vaginal progesterone supplementation may be considered in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss who are experiencing vaginal bleeding during the first trimester. But what about prophylactic low dose aspirin in the first trimester, or preconceptionally, for unexplained RPL? Is that evidence-based? A new publication from the SMFM’s journal Pregnancy has examined this. Listen in for details.

1. 22 November 2025: Low-dose aspirin in unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis (Pregnancy): https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pm...

Having data is sometimes different than having clinically applicable data. This is exactly the issue with the proposed plan to reduce surgical site infection (SSI) by changing surgical gloves after placental delivery at C-Section. Just 24 hours ago, we received the question from a PGY4 OBGYN resident asking whether the practice of changing surgical gloves at C-Section after placental delivery to reduce SSI was evidence-based. So, in this episode, we will review the data - which is timely since this was recently published on November 13, 2025 in the J Hospital Infection. This study follows a statement on this practice released by...

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of genetic diseases that affect about 16 to 25 per 100,000 people in the US, with the most common childhood form being Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and the most common adult form being myotonic dystrophy. The prevalence of DMD is estimated at around 1 in 3,500 live male births. Prenatal carrier screening for this is part of the ACMG Tier 3 expanded carrier panel. This is different from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). As we recently had a patient who was a MD carrier, with affected male children, who we cared for, we decided to do a quick review of...

Regional anesthesia, typically with a spinal or epidural, has long been favored for cesarean births due in part to concerns about the effects that general anesthesia (GA) may have on newborns at delivery. However, data has shown that up to 1 in 6 women may experience pain with a “topped-off” labor epidural, during the cesarean. A new publication in the journal Anesthesia is now being interpreted as implying that general anesthesia may be a valid alternative electively. Is that what this new study found? Has GA been linked to postpartum depression? What about later child neurodevelopmental delays? This is a fascinating topi...

The US has no shortage of lidocaine patch television commercials. Topical lidocaine has a role for local, topical, minor aches and pains. What about lidocaine patches for post-op cesarean section pain? Is there data for that? A brand-new meta-analysis in AJOG-MFM (Nov 13, 2025) looks at this option. However, there has been 3 prior reviews on the same topic from 2019, 2022, and 2023. Do they all arrive at the same result? Listen in for details!

1. Smoker J, Cohen A, Rasouli MR, Schwenk ES. Transdermal Lidocaine for Perioperative Pain: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Current Pain and Headache Reports. 2019;23(12):89. doi:10.1007...

Podcast Family, we have covered the subject of Measles previously on this show (links below). Those episodes were a preview of what has now been released ahead of print as a narrative review in the Green Journal! In this episode, we will summarize the KEY points of measles infection in pregnancy and re-state the “rule of 4” and the importance of the number 10 regarding this.

1. Feb 24, 2025: Measles 101: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4lXrpqKTJPdDcTXPxpEmcb

2. April 27, 2019: Measles!! ACOG Practice Advisory: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/dr-hector-chapa/episodes/MEASLES---ACOG-practice-advisory-e3s1p4

3. Joseph, Naima T. MD, MPH. Meas...

The term "hypnosis" was first described in 1843 by Scottish surgeon James Braid, who published the book Neurypnology. He coined the term "hypnosis" from the Greek word for sleep to describe the trance-like state induced by focusing on a bright object. Self-hypnosis has now been shown to aid in menopausal hot flash reduction! In this episode, we will review this brand new publication from JAMA Network which confirmed via a multicenter RCT that a simple daily hypnosis audio session was effective for symptom relief. The study is the first to compare self-guided hypnosis with an active control condition (i.e...

Well, from time to time we cover RANDOM tidbits of information which cover RANDOM questions and/or RANDOM patient care issues that we encounter. In this episode we will cover one OB issue related to recurrent pregnancy loss, one GYN issue related to unilateral breast swelling in a patient with SLE, and one RANDOM life perspective response from a mock interview that I participated in for a residency candidate. Listen in for details!

1. Factor V and recurrent pregnancy loss: de Assis, Viviana DO; Giugni, Claudio Schenone MD; Ros, Stephanie T. MD, MSCI. Evaluation of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss...

On August 15, 2025, we reviewed the data from an FDA expert panel calling on the FDA to remove the exiting Black Box warning on commercial HRT options for menopausal care. In a historic decision, this happened today. Listen in for details!

1. https://www.cbsnews.com/video/fda-chief-explains-changes-to-black-box-warnings-on-some-hormone-therapies-for-menopause/

2. https://www.hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-advances-womens-health-removes-misleading-fda-warnings-hormone-replacement-therapy.html

The ACOG acknowledges that maternal obesity affects labor curves and recommends allowing more time for cervical dilation before diagnosing labor arrest in obese patients. This approach aims to avoid unnecessary interventions, such as premature cesarean delivery, which may occur if standard labor curves are strictly applied to obese women. In this episode, we will review a new study from the AJOG (08 Nov 2025) which describes labor progression and duration according to maternal body mass index, validating the need (possibly) for a BMI -based labor curve. Has there been advocates of a BMI-based labor curve? Listen in for details.

1. ...

Do you routinely order prophylactic antibiotics at time of second-degree laceration repair? Is there data for that? While the use of prophylactic antibiotics “is reasonable” (per ACOG PB 198) for OASIS lacerations, what does the data look like for second degree lacs? Well, the answer is both supportive AND non-supportive of that practice! In this episode, we will cover a brand new publication (RCT) from BMJ on this very issue, and also highlight a meta-analysis from Plos One (May 2025) that also examined this question. Listen in for details!

1. ACOG PB 198

2. Armstrong H, Whitehurst J, Morris RK, Hodg...

On March 29, 2023, we released an episode titled, “The 4 PCOS Phenotypes”. That was in 2023! Now, on 29 October 2025, in the journal Nature Medicine, researchers have published, “Data-driven (FOUR) subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome and their association with clinical outcomes”. PCOS is not ONE condition: is a constellation of metabolic, endocrine, and ovulatory dysregulation. We covered these 4 phenotypes back then. Is this what the “new data” found? Or what it something else? And how does these affect IVF or pregnancy outcomes? Listen in for details!

1. Gao, X., Zhao, S., Du, Y. et al. Data-driven subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome and their associ...

Taking folic acid prior to conception and during pregnancy can help protect the unborn baby from developing abnormalities. Supplements are particularly important for women who have epilepsy, as anti-seizure medication (previously known as anti-convulsants or anti-epileptic drugs) can lead to a deficiency in folic acid. Until 2023, high doses of 4-5 mg per day were recommended. However, this has changed as the data has changed. Did you know the SMFM no longer recommends “high dose” folic acid preconceptionally for patients on seizure medications? This is also highlighted in a recently released epub from Obstetrics and Gynecology (Green Journal) on October 31, 2025. List...

Back on August 9, 2024, we released an episode (link in the show notes) reviewing the renewed interest in transfusing whole blood for PPH rather than component therapy. Now, in O&G open, authors from my Alma Mater (UT Southwestern) have published new data bolstering the use of whole blood for PPH. Listen in for details.

1. https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ZhqoIE9wMcAboDlevq9OW?si=rM32uK8ER8uuWmq4mf5dzA

2. Ambia, Anne M. MD; Burns, R. Nicholas MD; White, Alesha MD; Warncke, Kristen MD; Gorman, April MS; Duryea, Elaine MD; Nelson, David B. MD. Whole Blood...

Elinzanetant, sold under the brand name Lynkuet, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 24, 2025, for the treatment of moderate to severe hot flashes due to menopause. How is this different than Fezolinetant, which was approved in 2023? Listen in for details.

1. Menegaz de Almeida, Artur MS; Oliveira, Paloma MS; Lopes, Lucca MD; Leite, Marianna MS; Morbach, Victória MS; Alves Kelly, Francinny MD; Barros, Ítalo MS; Aquino de Moraes, Francisco Cezar MS; Prevedello, Alexandra MD. Fezolinetant and Elinzanetant Therapy for Menopausal Women Experiencing Vasomotor Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Obstetrics & Gynecology 145(3):p...

On January 18, 2020, we released an episode called “Vaginal Vit C for BV? Yep, it’s DATA”. That was 5 years ago! Now, in the Green Journal, a new systematic review and meta-analysis is examining this subject….AGAIN. Plus, this is not the only systematic review to investigate this; a similar review was published in Acta Obstétrica e Ginecológica Portuguesa earlier this year (2025) in March. So, did we get it right 5 years ago? Can vaginal Vit C help in eliminating BV? Listen in for details!

1. Khaikin, Yannay MD; Elangainesan, Praniya MD, MSc; Winkler, Eliot MD, MSc; Liu, Kuan PhD...

Here is a real-world clinical case with a tricky differential: Our team recently readmitted a patient 6 days postpartum/post C-section (which was done for ICP and fetal macrosomia at close to 4500 grams, with A2GDM). She had elevated blood pressures, a frontal headache, some midepigastric pain/RUQ discomfort. Pretty clear picture right: sounds like preeclampsia (PreE) with severe features based on BP elevation and symptoms. So, we started her on mag-sulfate per protocol. Well, her transaminases were in the 400-600s, which was significantly higher than they were at delivery. They then peaked the next day at 900! OK, it...

I was recently asked to OPINE on the labor management for a patient who was receiving IV Pitocin for augmentation, who experienced a placental abruption. One physician stated that in "his opinion", Pitocin increased the risk of placental abruption intrapartum, a point which the original treating physician refuted. So, I was asked to be the "referee" on the play. IV Pitocin can result in some maternal-fetal complications but is abruption one of them as a stand-alone complication. Was the first reviewer's opinion correct? Listen in for details.

1. Ben-Aroya Z, Yochai D, Silberstein T, Friger M, Hallak M...

Current guidelines recommend universal collection of a vaginal-rectal swab for GBS colonization at 36-37 weeks and 6 days for the identification of patients who require intrapartum IV antibiotic coverage to prevent early onset neonatal GBS infection/sepsis. Recently, we had a patient in clinic whose GBS culture at 36 weeks was negative. Good right? Well, the patient was on amoxicillin at the time for pharyngitis. Did that course of oral PCN based therapy affect the GBS culture result? Should we believe that culture or could it be a false negative, demanding rescreen after therapy completion? There is currently a GAP here...

On March 7, 2025, we released an episode summarizing key aspects of a NEJM publication regarding male partner therapy for women with recurrent BV. Although that study had limitations, the results were very surprising. Now, on 10/16/25 (7 months later), the ACOG has a new Clinical Practice Update (CPU) on this very issue. In this episode we will briefly summarize that March 2025 NEJM publication and highlight the TWO updated clinical recommendations from the ACOG regarding male partner therapy for the prevention of BV in women. PLUS, we will briefly discuss why although male partner therapy should be considered, partner EPT is “not recommended” at t...

Podcast family, as we have said on many previous occasions, we get episode suggestions from either real-world patient encounters, from things that are hot in press, and/or from podcasts family member suggestions. Recently, one of our podcast family members asked me about the utility of performing pelvic floor muscle therapy (PFMT) antepartum. Is this evidence-based? Does performing PFMT help with postpartum urinary incontinence? Not all PFMTs are kegel exercises! In this episode, we will review peripartum urinary incontinence and answer the question, “Is there value in teaching antepartum PFMT?”. We will summarize key concepts from the Oct 2025 Narrative Revi...

In the 09/1/2018 Society for Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology’s (SASGOG’s) Pearls of Exxcellence publication, “Management of Preeclampsia at Term”, it states: “If hypertension management requires acute IV treatment, it is often prudent to initiate oral labetalol or EXTENDED-release nifedipine to maintain blood pressures below the severe range. Intrapartum blood pressure management and consultation should not delay progress towards delivery. Fetal monitoring should be continuous.” In the original ACOG CO 692 from 2017, oral nifedipine was first referenced as an alternative to IV meds GIVEN INTRAPARTUM, stating, “Although relatively less information currently exists for the use of calcium channel blocke...

Fetal gastroschisis is a congenital defect of the abdominal wall, typically located to the right of a normally inserted umbilical cord, through which the fetal intestines and sometimes other abdominal organs herniate directly into the amniotic cavity. This condition is usually isolated, not associated with other major anomalies, and is reliably diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound. Does this require antenatal fetal surveillance? In this episode, we will cover the prevalence, diagnosis, classification, and management of this congenital anomaly.

1. Ferreira RG, Mendonça CR, Gonçalves Ramos LL, de Abreu Tacon FS, Naves do Amaral W, Ruano R. Gastroschisis: a...

On October 9, 2025, the ACOG released a clinical practice update (CPU) regarding Zouranolone and brexanolone. As postpartum depression is an area of continued research and need for therapeutics, any new clinical practice update on the subject is welcome. So what's new in this update?! Well…the answer will surprise you. Listen in for details on the CPU, and a mini-review of the concerns for Zuranolone.

1. ACOG CPU Oct 9, 2025: Zuranolone and Brexanolone for the Treatment of Postpartum Depression

2. ACOG PA Aug 2023: Zuranolone for the Treatment of Postpartum Depression

3. Clinical Practice Guideline No. 5, Treatment an...

Sometimes you hear something that makes you just stop and say, “What did you say?!”. Yep, in this episode we will give evidence-based answers to three questions that I heard TODAY that made me stop and ask, “What did you say?”. In this episode we will cover: 1. Umbilical cord blood collection from a monochorionic twin gestation, 2. Predictability of the mBPP compared to full BPP, and 3. Breastfeeding during postpartum cannabis use (this last one is not so intuitive as you would think, and there is new ACOG guidance on this which we will review). Listen in for details!

1. ACOG PB...

In July 2023, the ACOG released a Practice Advisory stating, “Based on data on the benefit of adjunct HPV vaccination, ACOG recommends adherence to the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for vaccinations of individuals aged 9–26 years, and to consider adjuvant HPV vaccination for immunocompetent previously unvaccinated people aged 27–45 years who are undergoing treatment for CIN 2+”. The possible beneficial effect of peri-treatment HPV vaccination goes back to the early 2010s. But science is always changing, and MEDICINE MOVES FAST. In September 2025, the Lancet’s Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health journal published the VACCIN trial to test that guidanc...

FYI

A breakthrough discovery in the 1970s was the determination of alpha-fetoprotein levels in the serum of pregnant women to detect fetuses with neural tube defects. In the case of high AFP values in maternal serum, amniocentesis was performed to determine the levels of AFP and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in the amniotic fluid to confirm the diagnosis. Currently, the ACOG states that high-quality, second-trimester fetal anatomy ultrasonography is an appropriate screening test for NTDs where routinely performed for fetal anatomic survey at 18 to 22 weeks. If optimal images of the fetal spine, intracranial anatomy, or anterior abdominal wall are not obtained (eg...

The only structure of fetal gastrointestinal tract (GIT) which is seen on routine second trimester anomaly scan is the fetal stomach. Under normal conditions, the fetal stomach "bubble" is seen on the left side of the fetal abdomen. This is a normal finding on an ultrasound and indicates the stomach's normal position. There are two functions of the fetal GIT: 1. Propulsive action by peristalsis which takes the swallowed amniotic fluid up to the small bowel; 2. Absorption – the amniotic fluid is absorbed through the fetal small bowel. When the stomach is found prenatally to be located on the right side, it...

Did you know that C-Section birth is referenced in Shakespeare’s Macbeth? Cesarean Section is the most common laparotomy in the world, and yest we are still learning surprising facts about it. This episode we will summarize 2publications which have recently been released. One is from the American Journal of Perinatology (September 2025 ) and the other is from the AJOG (August 2025 ). Does a primary C-section on a laboring uterus have a different risk of PAS in the subsequent pregnancy compared to a non-labored uterus? And what is the percentage of patients who experience “pain” at time of C-section? Listen in for th...

Just today in clinic, we had a patient, who was well into her third trimester, come to her regular scheduled appointment with new onset left-sided facial droop. Yeah, that’s concerning! A complete history and physical was performed and the diagnosis was made of Bell’s palsy. This is not a rare event and it can be extremely stressful for the affected mother to be because everybody knows facial droop is not normal! And we have recent data regarding this. In July 2025 in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, authors confirmed that Bell’s palsy can have real n...

Maternal perception of decreased fetal movement at term occurs in up to 15% of pregnancies and is a cause for maternal and provider concern. All maternal concerns of decreased fetal movement require an assessment of fetal wellbeing. But what about the patient with recurrent episodes of reduced fetal movements at term? Routine induction of labor is not supported solely for decreased fetal movement in a non-growth-restricted fetus, as increased intervention rates (including induction of labor and early term birth) have not demonstrated improved perinatal outcomes and may increase neonatal morbidity, such as respiratory distress and NICU admission. Some international sources...

In the 1960s, continuous electronic fetal monitoring was introduced as a way to better capture and document the fetal response to labor and uterine contraction pattern. Since then, it has become a fully integrated component of intrapartum care despite its limited ability to prevent neonatal long term neurological complications and fetal death. We have covered intrapartum fetal heart rate patterns several times on this show, and this episode now VALIDATES those prior episodes. In this episode, we will summarize THREE key points from the October 2025 upcoming ACOG CPG #10 on “Intrapartum Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring: Interpretation and Management”. Is there a pl...

In 2023, we released 2 episodes on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and adverse pregnancy. Now, on September 16, 2025, a new publication from JAMA Network Open adds more insights to disturbed sleep and adverse pregnancy outcomes. How does insomnia affect pregnancy? And is there any data on night shift work and its altered circadian rhythms on adverse pregnancy outcomes? Listen in for details.

1. Ross N, Baer RJ, Oltman SP, et al. Ischemic Placental Disease and Severe Morbidity in Pregnant Patients With Sleep Disorders. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(9):e2532189. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.32189

2. Cai C, Vandermeer B, Khurana R, et al. The Impact...

Brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP) levels originate from the cardiac cells in response to cardiac strain. This may come from a pulmonary embolus, an acute severe infection (sepsis), or cardiomyopathy. But what is the relationship between these 2 cardiac biomarkers and preeclampsia? Can preeclampsia with severe features result in an abnormal rise in these 2 proteins exclusive to heart failure. Listen in to this real case scenario which our on call team cared for.

1. Serum Levels of N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Gestational Hypertension, Mild Preeclampsia, and Severe Preeclampsia: A Study From a Center in Zhejiang...

Stroke (CVA) is very common in women, who have a higher risk than men over their lifetime; one in five women between the ages of 55 and 75 will experience a stroke. Stroke is a significant concern for women's health, being the third leading cause of death and causing more deaths than breast cancer. While systematic estrogen containing menopausal HT has been considered contraindicated in those with prior CVA history, is local/vaginal E2 therapy safe? A new population-based study gives us some insights. Listen in for details.

1. Recurrent Ischemic Stroke and Vaginal Estradiol in Women With Prior Ischemic...

Mastalgia is a common breast complaint in reproductive aged women. Mastalgia can be separated into three categories: 1) cyclical, 2) noncyclical, and 3) extramammary. Vitamin B6 is often cited as a homeopathic (non-prescription/pharmacological) remedy for simple mastalgia. Does the published data support its use? A newly published meta-analysis sheds light on the subject.

As stated in this message, we are delaying today's recording. We will resume as soon as possible. Remembering Charlie Kirk.

We have a wonderful podacst community! Within 24 hours of our immediate past episode release, one close friend- and fellow OBGYN, Dr. Eric Colton (OB Hospitalist Group) reached out and shared valuable words of wisdom regarding a potentially deadly complication of the CS-scar defect...the CS scar ectopic pregnancy. Listen in for Dr. Colton's cameo and details.

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Ban, Yanli MD, PhD; Shen, Jia MD; Wang, Xia MD; Zhang, Teng MD, PhD; Lu, Xuxu MD; Qu, Wenjie MD; Hao, Yiping MD; Mao, Zhonghao MD; Li, Shizhen MD; Tao, Guowei MD, PhD; Wang, Fang MD, PhD; Zhao, Ying...

On Sept 10, 2023, er released an episode titled, “CS Ut Closure: Decidua or No Decidua?”. We highlighted the importance of AVOIDING the decidua at hysterotomy closure at CS. Now, in Sept 2025, in Obstetrics and Gynecology (the Green Journal), there is a new systematic review and meta-analysis on this very topic. Does this new study CONFIRM or REFUTE what we explained 2 years ago? Listen in for details.

1. Sept 10, 2023 Chapa Clinical Pearls Podcast: CS Ut Closure: Decidua or No Decidua?

2. Lino GM, Galvão PVM, da Silva MLF, Conrado GAM. Not Closing Compared With Closing the Endometrial Layer Durin...

According to the J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. (2024), the incidence of pelvic ring injuries is 34.3 per 100,000 with trauma being the most obvious causation. Women account for approximately 69.7% of these injuries, 23% of which occur in women of childbearing age. In this specific patient population, concern is raised about one's future reproductive capability and method of delivery. The normal bony pelvic movements that occur during vaginal delivery are crucial for accommodating the passage of the fetus through the birth canal; this allows for the normal cardinal phases of labor to occur. These movements involve the widening and shifting...

Traditionally, we have learned that any imbalance in the estrogen: progesterone relationship can trigger irregular uterine bleeding. That makes sense, right? During anovulation, prolonged unopposed estrogen can result in HMB. In such a case, we give progesterone as both a therapeutic as well as diagnostic intervention. On the contrary, with progestin only contraception, we consider estrogen predominant products when progesterone breakthrough bleeding (BTB) occurs to restore endometrial stabilization. But a new RCT (AJOG) adds credence to adding MORE progesterone in cases of progesterone associated BTB. Listen in for details.

1. Zigler RE, Madden T, Ashby C, Wan L...

Routine vaginal examinations (VEs) are a standard component of intrapartum care, traditionally performed at regular intervals to monitor cervical dilation, effacement, and fetal station, which are indicators of labor progression. Yet, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that there is insufficient evidence to recommend a specific frequency for cervical examinations during labor, and examinations should be performed as clinically indicated. Now, a recently published RCT form AJOG MFM is adding additional credence to that. Can we space out clinical exams in otherwise “low-risk” laboring women to 8 hours? Listen in for details.

1. AJOG MFM: (08/18/25) Routine Vaginal Exam...

Breast cancer is an hormone responsive malignancy, meaning it may use estrogen and progesterone, reduced in high quantities during a pregnancy, for growth. However, as medical evidence evolves quickly, physicians have come to understand that breast cancer diagnosis during pregnancy doesn't always mean worse prognoses. While older studies- including meta analysis-reflected worse prognoses for pregnancy related breast cancer compared to non-pregnancy related cases, these studies either included studies from the 1960s and 70s when diagnosis and treatment were radically different, had inconsistent definitions of PABC, and/or were poorly age and staged matched. Therefore, as stated in the new...

YEP…Its another episode of You Asked, We Answered! In this episode, we will look at the data to answer 2 questions that came into the show within the last 24 hrs: 1. Is oral or topical therapy best for first treatment of uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis? (We have new data- AJOG, Sept 2025, to answer that), and 2. Is urine PCR testing for UTI diagnosis a “routine practice”? (We will look at 4 sources of information to answer that one). Listen in for details.

1. Gardella, Barbara et al. Treatment of uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis: topical or oral drugs? Single-day or multiple-day therapy? A network meta-a...

In the last 2 episodes we covered new updates in menopausal hormone therapy. However, we did not address TESTOSTERONE use. This episode idea comes from one our podcast family members and good friend, Eric. Eric is 100% correct: Testosterone replacement, when done correctly, has come along way. When is this indicated? Is this endorsed by professional medical/endocrine groups? What’s the dose? We have fun stuff to review, so listen in!

1. Davis SR, Baber R, Panay N, Bitzer J, Perez SC, Islam RM, Kaunitz AM, Kingsberg SA, Lambrinoudaki I, Liu J, Parish SJ, Pinkerton J, Rymer J, Simon JA...

This is a requested follow up to our most recent episode. Menopausal hormone therapy (HT) prescribing practices have evolved over the last few decades guided by the changing understanding of the treatment’s risks and benefits. We know that dose, route of administration, and choice of agent (estradiol versus a more synthetic option, and micronized progesterone over other progestins.) alter the risk benefit ratio. Compared to natural progesterone, synthetic progestins have 10-100- fold greater activity. Synthetic MPA is vasoconstrictive while natural progesterone and drospirenone cause vasodilation and lower blood pressure. Micronized progesterone is bioidentical to the hormone made en...

There’s a lot of fear and misinformation around HRT, and one of the biggest myths is that HT is a highly significant cause of breast cancer. That is not the case. This is a remnant concept from 2002, with MANY caveats. Calls for the removal of the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) stems primarily from the outdated and limited nature of the data from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study published in 2002. The WHI, while groundbreaking at the time, focused predominantly on a specific formulation of conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in older, po...

Well, I hate to say it, but I'm going to say it: "I Told You So". Back in 2019, we released an episode called "⁠Mycoplasma genitalium: An Overlooked STI". ⁠ Then, in Sept 2023, we released an episode called, "The Neglected STI", referring to trichomoniasis. Well, on July 22, 2025, a new commentary was released in the AJOG which is making the case why both Trich and MGen SHOULD be reportable STIs, yet they are currently not reportable. Listen in for details and a quick summary/reminder on therapy.

1. https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(25)00498-3/fulltext

2. https://www.cdc...

Thank goodness for William Morton and Horace Wells- pioneers in anesthesia. Anesthesia has come a long way since them and there is even a professional medical society for OB anesthesia called SOAP. Today, August 07, 2025, there is a new Clinical Expert Series which was just released in the Green Journal. That publication (which is ahead of print) is titled, Key Management Considerations in Obstetric Anesthesiology, is our episode focus. Can you safely have an epidural placed if the patient has platelets under 100K? Can labor epidurals cause pyrexia alone? Do labor epidurals slow labor? Listen in for details.

1. ...

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a recognized and effective treatment for postpartum PTSD, particularly when related to a traumatic birth experience. EMDR helps individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the associated distress, allowing for a more adaptive way of remembering the event. On Aug 4, 2025, a new publication was released in AJOG pertaining to this therapy. What’s this latest randomized controlled trial data saying? Listen in for details.

1. Hendrix YMGA, van Dongen KSM, de Jongh A, van Pampus MG. Postpartum Early EMDR therapy Intervention (PERCEIVE) study for women after a traumatic birth experience: study pr...

Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18) affects approximately 1 in 5,000 to 6,000 live births. Patau syndrome (also known as Trisomy 13) is even less common, occurring in about 1 in 8,000 to 12,000 live births. About 20% of cases of Patau syndrome are caused by translocation. On the other hand, approximately 10% of Edwards syndrome cases are caused by a genetic translocation. Both conditions result in a wide range of birth anomalies including the heart, kidneys, and brain as well as cognitive limitations. Both of these conditions are part of maternal cell free fetal DNA testing (NIPTs). Prenatal counseling for expectant parents whose fetus was found to have T13 or...

Delayed (AKA deferred) Cord Clamping (DCC) is extremely beneficial for both the preterm and term neonate. In September 2025, a new Clinical Practice Update (CPU) will be released by the ACOG regarding the amount of time DCC should be done for preterm newborns. This updates data from a Clinical Expert Series which was released in 2022, called “Management of Placental Transfusion to the Neonate”. Is the recommended amount of DCC 30 sec, 45 sec, or at least 60 seconds for preterm newborns? We will highlight this data in this episode. PLUS, we will very quickly summarize a separate yet related publication from JAMA Pediatrics rega...

Podcast family, in this episode we will reply to 2 questions raised by our 2 of our podcast family members. The first pertains to a real world, HORRIBLE tragedy of hepatic rupture in pregnancy (no identifiable information released). We will review how and why this happens and what is the single, 5-letter, clinical diagnosis that makes this a possibility. Secondly, we will answer this question: Can MagSo4 ALONE lead to pulmonary edema. The answer is YES. Listen in for details.

1. ACOG PB 222;2020

2. COMMONLY USED MAGNESIUM SULFATE UNCOMMONLY CAUSING PULMONARY EDEMAVYATA, VISHRUTH et al.CHEST, Volume 162...

Polyhydramnios may be due to excess urine production or impaired fetal swallowing. The ACOG CO 831 states that mild, idiopathic polyhydramnios may be delivered at 39 weeks and 0 days and thereafter, but there is no specific mention regarding moderate to severe poly. In this episode we will cover delivery of moderate to severe poly. Is that data in SMFM consult series 46 (Evaluation and management of polyhydramnios)? The answer is both YES and NO. Listen in for details.

1. ACOG CO 831

2. SMFM CS 46

3. https://med.uc.edu/docs/default-source/obstetrics-and-gynecology-docs/ob-mfm-protocols/a-d/isolatd-amniotic-fluid-disorders.pdf?sfvrsn=75dc58e4_4<...

What’s best for skin closure at C-Section? Staples or suture? This debate has raged for over 20 years. Past data has shown greater odds of wound complications with metal staples compared to suture. But new a meta-analysis from June 2025 is challenging the prior results. In this episode, we will explore the data from 2010 to present day. PLUS, we will summarize a separate meta-analysis examining if wound dressing removal is tied to any wound complication. This was just published July 15, 2025 in the “Pink” journal. Listen in for details.

1. 2010: Basha SL, Rochon ML, Quiñones JN, Coassolo KM, Rust OA, Smu...

We have covered Low Dose Aspirin (LDA) for pre-natal preeclampsia prevention MANY times before. But here's a good clinical question: Since preeclampsia can also pop-up in the first 6 weeks postpartum (pp), should we continue it in the immediate pp interval? There is a new publication, an RCT, in the AJOG that looked to answer this- and we will highlight that publication in this episode. PLUS, we will briefly summarize a separate publication from the American J Perinatology back in 2023 that also provided some clinical insights on this topic. Listen in for details.

1. The association between postpartum aspirin...

Amniotic Fluid Sludge (AFS) has been theorized to be sonographic evidence of an underlying infection/inflammation. Others have proposed it may represent an organized clot from the placental surface. At the same time, the finding of AFS may be more common as a benign finding especially at/after 40 weeks as the amniotic fluid accumulates shed skin cells, vernix, and possibly meconium past 41 weeks. What can be tell the patient when we identify AFS in the early second trimester? What do we do with this? In this episode, we will summarize the data on second trimester AFS and review the...

Podcast family, we are in process of an exciting rebrand! Dr. Chapa's Clinical Pearls will soon become our legacy show as we change names and channels to, "Dr. Chapa's OBGYN No Spin Podcast". This will allow us to better align with our mission. Listen in for details and FIND US, as Dr. Chapa's OBGYN No Spin Podcast!!

Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) has dichotomous effects: Benign for the mother (although the itching it causes may be a qualify of life issue, yet potentially devasting for the child in-utero. In 2021, SMFM released Consult series 53 on the subject. This, together with the ACOG 's CO 831 (Medically Indicated Late Preterm and early term delivery) also from 2021 provide management options for ICP. However, this month- July 2025- Dr. Cynthia Gyamfi-Bannerman et al published a new proposed ICP classification and management schema that is easy to follow. Listen in for details.

​ SMFM CS #53,2021​ ACOG CO #831, 2021​ Sarker M, Ramos GA, Ferrar...