Social Isolation is a Biological Risk Factor in Recovery after Maternal Birth Injury with Dr. Lindsey Burnett

Social isolation may influence how the body recovers from pelvic floor injury after childbirth. Lindsay Burnett, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor and physician-scientist at UC San Diego, studies factors during pregnancy and postpartum that may affect pelvic floor muscle recovery, including medications, diet, exercise and social interaction. Her research grew from clinical observations connecting patients’ perceptions of traumatic births with physical outcomes such as fecal incontinence. In a preclinical model, social support was associated with improved pelvic floor muscle regeneration and distinct metabolic changes. Burnett is investigating metabolites involved in wound healing and skeletal muscle regeneration, along with possible connections between social interaction, the gut microbiome and systemic metabolism. The research offers a biological perspective on why emotional and social support may matter during postpartum recovery. Series: "Motherhood Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 41640]