Women's Health: Under the Mic-roscope

Prenatal Genetic Screening: Evidence, Ethics, and Informed Choice with Dr. Alison Castle

Join us for an engaging and informative episode as we dive into the important topic of prenatal genetic screening with Alison Castle, a medical genetics physician with expertise in genetics. As genetic technologies continue to advance, prenatal genetic screening plays an increasingly prominent role in pregnancy care and client-centered informed decision-making. In this episode, we break down the different types of prenatal genetic screens, discuss the potential benefits and limitations of these screens, and explore decision-making during pregnancy. We also examine the challenges healthcare providers and patients may face, the importance of clear and compassionate communication, and considerations around access, equity, and support when navigating screening options. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or someone interested in learning about genetics, this conversation offers valuable insights into understanding prenatal genetic screening and its role in present day prenatal care. Tune in to learn how evidence-based research can help support informed choices in regards to prenatal genetic screening.

Knowledge Mobilization & Accessibility: The Importance of Transforming Research into Real World Conversations

Join us in this exciting episode where we sit down and talk with Emily Anne Opala, from the Women’s Health Research Cluster, a group committed to knowledge mobilization in women’s health research. In this episode, we’ll explore the concept of knowledge mobilization in women’s health research, learn about the strategies and techniques for translating research findings into real world practice, and understand the importance of making this knowledge accessible to all. Moreover, we will discuss the challenges researchers face in bridging the gap between research evidence and in person practice, the role of community allyship in advancing women’s health, and the barriers that marginalized groups encounter in accessing quality healthcare and health-related information. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or someone interested in women’s health research, this conversation is for you. Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to combating this public health challenge!

Reproductive Health Realities: Spotlighting Congenital Syphilis with Emma Karlsen & Roisin Delaney

Join us for an exciting and informative episode as we dive deep into the critical issue of syphilis in pregnancy with experts, Roisin and Emma, from the Women's Health Research Institutes, Reproductive Infectious Disease Team. In recent years, Canada has seen a troubling rise in syphilis cases, particularly among those of reproductive age, leading to serious health implications for pregnant people and their newborns. In this episode, we’ll explore epidemiological trends, learn about the impact of untreated syphilis on fetal health, and understand the urgent need for increased awareness and testing. Further, we will discuss the challenges faced by healthcare providers, the importance of timely screening during prenatal care, and the barriers that marginalized populations encounter in accessing vital health services. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or someone interested in women’s health issues, this conversation will provide valuable insights into preventing congenital syphilis and promoting better health outcomes for mothers and their babies. Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to combating this public health challenge! Resources: Reproductive Infectious Diseases Program Page [https://ridprogram.med.ubc.ca/] Supporting a Safe and Healthy Pregnancy Syphilis Resource [https://med-fom-ridprogram.sites.olt.ubc.ca/files/2024/11/Syphilis-Resource-Nov-2024.pdf] Maternal and Congenital Syphilis Resource List [https://linktr.ee/ridprogram?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=b3a12771-511e-412d-baf7-2805d3703eed] Overview of Syphilis in Pregnancy in British Columbia [https://med-fom-ridprogram.sites.olt.ubc.ca/files/2024/11/Brief-Syphilis-Report-British-Columbia-Nov-2024.pdf]

Demystifying Birth Control: The Biological and Psychological Effects of Contraceptives

In this episode of Women’s Health: Under the Mic-roscope, co-hosts Ananyaa Prabhu and Shreyasi Dutiya delve into the multifaceted world of research on birth control, focusing on its biological and psychological impacts. The discussion begins with an exploration of hormonal contraceptives and their mechanisms, highlighting how they prevent pregnancy by halting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and altering the uterine lining. Immediate benefits, such as menstrual regulation, acne reduction, and easing PMS, are balanced against potential side effects like nausea and headaches. Long-term effects, including impacts on bone density, cardiovascular health, and cancer risks, are also examined. The conversation emphasizes how contraception effects vary across life stages, from adolescence to menopause. The hosts transition into a discussion on the psychological effects of birth control, addressing its link to mood swings, depression, and emotional changes. Studies reveal that these mental health concerns are particularly prominent in younger users, with testimonials echoing experiences of heightened emotional sensitivity. The episode underscores systemic healthcare challenges, including inadequate research and the dismissal of women’s and gender-diverse people's concerns, particularly among marginalized groups. We conclude by advocating for better education, compassionate healthcare, and more research to ensure informed choices and holistic support for those navigating contraception. Tune in for a novel and well-rounded discussion, and stay curious! Works Cited: BBC. ‘It sucked’: Eight women open up about being on the pill. 2018. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180823-women-speak-about-side-effects-of-the-birth-control-pill Fruzzetti, F., Fidecicchi, T. Hormonal Contraception and Depression: Updated Evidence and Implications in Clinical Practice. Clinical Drug Investigation 2020; 40:1097–1106. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40261-020-00966-8 Johansson T, Vinther Larsen S, Bui M, Ek WE, Karlsson T, Johansson Å. Population-based cohort study of oral contraceptive use and risk of depression. Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences. 2023;32:e39. doi:10.1017/S2045796023000525 Tello, M. Can hormonal birth control trigger depression? Harvard Health Blog, 2019 https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-hormonal-birth-control-trigger-depression-201610172517 Zettermark, S., Perez Vicente, R., Merlo, J. Hormonal contraception increases the risk of psychotropic drug use in adolescent girls but not in adults: A pharmacoepidemiological study on800,000 Swedish women. PLoS ONE 2018; 13(3): e0194773. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0194773 Cover art by Seppi Satchi.

Zooming Out: Women and the World Health Organization with Dr. Asheena Khalakdina

In the latest episode of Women’s Health: Under the Mic-roscope, co-hosts Brianna and Alessia are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Asheena Khalakdina, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative and Head of the WHO office in Uzbekistan. With an extensive background in epidemiological research and international public health advisory, Dr. Khalakdina kindly tells us more about the World Health Organization and her role in assisting governments and ministries of health in delivering effective and equitable health policy. She highlights the United Nations agency’s work towards advancing women’s and girls’ health globally, with an emphasis on universal health coverage and health promotion, reproductive and maternal-child health, gender-based violence, and access to water and sanitation. Dr. Khalakdina shares keen first-hand insights into the socioeconomic determinants of women’s and girl’s health in Global South countries such as India, Thailand and Cambodia, advocating for the transformation of societal norms and public messaging to empower women and girls to exercise agency over their health. Listen along to learn more about the international landscape of women’s and girl’s health and the World Health Organization’s role in reforming it! An insightful and ultimately inspiring episode, we hope you can join us in zooming out the microscope to see women’s health in global perspective. Stay curious! Learn more about Women's Health at WHO [https://www.who.int/health-topics/women-s-health] Cover Art by Seppi Satchi