Understanding Severe Maternal Morbidity with Dr. Giulia Muraca

The Hole Shebang

In this conversation, Dr. Giulia Muraca discusses her journey into perinatal epidemiology, focusing on the rising rates of cesarean deliveries and the implications of severe maternal morbidity. She highlights the importance of understanding obstetric trauma, the risks associated with various delivery interventions, and the need for informed discussions between healthcare providers and expectant mothers. Dr. Muraca emphasizes the significance of addressing postpartum mental health and the role of pelvic floor health in maternal care. takeaways

• Dr. Muraca was inspired by a perinatal epidemiologist during her studies.
• The cesarean delivery rate has been increasing globally.
• Severe maternal morbidity is a composite outcome of various complications.
• Obstetric trauma is often not included in severe maternal morbidity definitions.
• One in four first-time mothers may require an intervention during delivery.
• The risk of obstetric trauma is significantly high with forceps and vacuum deliveries.
• Episiotomy should not be routinely performed in spontaneous vaginal deliveries.
• Informed conversations about delivery options are crucial for first-time moms.
• Postpartum mental health is significantly impacted by obstetric injuries.
• Preventative care and pelvic floor health are essential for maternal well-being.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Giulia Muraca 04:15 Rising Cesarean Delivery Rates 08:43 Understanding Severe Maternal Morbidity 12:01 Defining Obstetric Trauma 14:07 Interventions in Labor: Forceps and Vacuum Deliveries 20:15 The Risks of Multiple Interventions 22:27 Informed Conversations for First-Time Moms 27:02 The Importance of Discussing Obstetric Trauma 32:16 Episiotomy Practices and Their Implications 39:41 Comparing International Guidelines 44:27 Future Research Directions 52:37 Connecting with Dr. Muraca For more information about this podcast please check out The Hole Shebang Podcast