54. Fibroids, Hysterectomy Alternatives & the Maternal Health Crisis with Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell (Part 2)

Did you know that 80% of Black women and 70% of white women will develop fibroids by age 50 and that hysterectomy is not the only treatment option? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Anikó sits down with Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell, OBGYN, fibroid specialist, and one of the country's leading voices on maternal mortality to break down everything you've never been told about fibroid care, the U.S. maternal health crisis, and what the post-Dobbs landscape means for the future of women's healthcare.Dr. Gillispie-Bell shares the full menu of fibroid treatment options that most patients (and many physicians) don't know exist, including newly FDA-approved medications, uterine artery embolization, radio frequency ablation, and uterus-preserving myomectomy. She also discusses why the U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country.Whether you're navigating fibroids yourself, planning a pregnancy, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to understand what's happening to women's healthcare in America right now this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to take action.In This Episode:01:04 What fibroids are, how they form, and who they affect 01:34 The most common fibroid symptoms and when treatment becomes necessary.02:45 Medication options for fibroids, including newer FDA-approved treatments that significantly reduce heavy bleeding.05:03 Minimally invasive fibroid procedures that avoid major surgery and offer shorter recovery times.06:17 Surgical treatment options, including myomectomy and hysterectomy, depending on fertility goals and symptom severity.09:53 A patient story showing how a missed fibroid diagnosis was actually causing infertility.12:18 — Why MRI can detect fibroid complications that ultrasounds sometimes miss.14:09 The alarming reality of maternal mortality disparities, especially among Black women in the U.S.23:06 How post-Dobbs legislation is affecting physician shortages 29:47 Practical ways patients can improve maternal health outcomes through advocacy, support, and preconception care.Learn more about Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell:Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell is a board-certified OBGYN and one of the country's leading experts on uterine fibroids and maternal health equity. She leads the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative (LAPQC) and the state's Maternal Mortality Review Committee, where she works with birthing facilities across Louisiana to implement evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for mothers and babies. Her work has contributed to dramatic reductions in severe maternal morbidity from hemorrhage and hypertension in Louisiana.Website: https://www.drveronicamedicalmedia.com/Connect with Dr. Anikó:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.aniko/Website: https://www.draniko.com/Thank you for listening to Nourished with Dr. Anikó! It would mean the world if you would take one minute to follow, leave a 5 star review and share with those you love! Your presence is truly felt and deeply appreciated.Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views expressed are those of the host and guests and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast.