2019 OB Challenges Conference takes a hard look at preterm birth

Despite significant time, resources and efforts dedicated to preventing prematurity, preterm births are on the rise. That’s why the 2019 OB Challenges Conference will address the core theme of Preterm Birth: Prediction, Prevention and Management. “Approximately 1 in 10 babies in the U.S. are born prematurely, and the number is climbing,” said Curtis Cook, MD, conference director.

Dr. Cook is a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Phoenix Perinatal Associates (PPA) in Arizona. The practice is a leading MFM group that supports perinatal medicine clinicians along the continuum of care for mothers, babies and families through all stages of pregnancy. 

What you’ll learn

“Of all the challenges in our field, this year’s topic is one of pressing importance,” said Dr. Cook. “The sessions will explore the history of preterm birth treatment, proven effective strategies in management and the significant racial/ethnic disparities in preterm birth rates. We will also look at recent advances and emerging therapies.”

During the three-day event, an attendee will:

1. Understand the appropriate use of progestogens in preventing preterm birth.
2. Update on current recommendations for antenatal steroid use including periviable and late preterm use.
3. Learn the appropriate identification and management of the short cervix.
4. Understand the potential role for pessaries in preterm birth prevention.
5. Discuss the unique challenges of preterm birth prevention in multiples.
6. Introduce new management approaches such as group prenatal care.
7. Discuss social contributions to preterm birth including trauma and intimate partner violence.
8. Review interventions for improving neonatal outcomes including magnesium for neuroprotection and delayed cord clamping.
9. Explore how provider/staff burnout and swamping may contribute to preterm birth rates.
10. Examine racial disparities in preterm birth rates and identify potential strategies for improvement.

Your speaker lineup

OB Challenges has a nearly 40-year history under the continued leadership of PPA. It is a premier continuing education experience at an affordable price. It also features diverse faculty, including leading MFMs from throughout the country as well as faculty from the University of Arizona College of Medicine.

 “OB Challenges faculty come from all backgrounds of perinatal care. This year’s conference is no different. You’ll learn from authorities in maternal-fetal medicine who are blazing trails in policy, education, research and practice,” said Dr. Cook. “We’re proud that this event also includes faculty who are physician leaders of tomorrow — new doctors now in the trenches, preparing to become our next generation of MFM specialists.” 

Pack your bags

OB Challenges 2019 will be hosted again at the Renaissance Glendale Hotel & Spa in Glendale, just nine miles northwest of downtown Phoenix. The special group rate at the hotel and conference center is $199 per night. Space is limited for this reserved block of rooms, so check your calendar soon and don’t delay in booking.

Rooms can be reserved by phone (1-800-931-1595) or online.

As large sections of the country are experiencing one of the coldest winters on record, it’s still warm in Arizona, and temperatures will rise even more by May. But remember Arizona is a desert climate and temperatures drop at night. Keep this in mind when you pack!

Will we see you at OB Challenges?

Questions about the event? Email us!