Course Director
Alexandra Buffie, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science
buffieaw@upmc.edu
Course Director
Sara Sakamoto, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences
sakamotos@mail.magee.edu
Course Description
This course focuses on the basic principles underlying the typical processes of reproduction and development and their clinical correlates. The content areas in this course span fertilization thru menopause including: gametogenesis, embryogenesis, pregnancy adaptation, fetal development, childhood development, puberty, intimate partner violence, menopause and aging.
Course Learning Objectives
- Describe key female and male anatomic structures and describe how normal and atypical anatomy would impact presentation and management of reproductive issues.
- Sequence the stages of gametogenesis, embryo and fetal development, pregnancy and parturition, neonatal transition, puberty, and senescence of the reproductive system and briefly explain each stage.
- Describe the clinical presentations and manifestations of abnormal reproductive development
- Describe the basic principles underlying normal reproduction and development.
- Explain the roles of reproductive hormones in regulating physiologic processes throughout the continuum of reproductive development.
- Identify common complications and diseases of the reproductive system in females and males, their impact on patients’ lives, and considerations for treatment.
- Describe therapeutic options for management of problems encountered during embryo and fetal development, pregnancy and parturition, neonatal transition, puberty, and senescence of the reproductive system.
- Recognize how bias, social inequities, sexism, and racism undermine health and create challenges to achieving reproductive health equity.
Educational Methods
- Case-based learning
- Small group workshops
- Team-based learning
- Weekly formative assessments
- Histology, pathology, radiology & ultrasound
- Independent learning (pre-recorded lectures, web-based modules)
Assessment
Assessment for this course is based on a cumulative, graded Summative exam.
Requests for excused absences should be submitted via Elentra. Unexcused absences may result in grading penalties as outlined in the Policy on Absence and Attendance.