MedCity FemFwd ACOG's new guidelines around endometriosis
In this episode of the Med City Fem Forward Podcast, host Marissa Plescia speaks with Dr. Barbara Levy about the latest clinical guidance on endometriosis from American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
The conversation highlights a major shift in how endometriosis is diagnosed—from invasive surgical confirmation to a clinical, symptom-based approach centered on listening to patients. Dr. Levy explains the systemic nature of the disease, its widespread impact (affecting ~10% of women), and the historical challenges women have faced due to dismissal and lack of objective diagnostic tools.
The episode also explores modern, multidisciplinary treatment approaches, the importance of addressing chronic pain holistically, and the urgent need for better medical training and research into root causes. Ultimately, this discussion reframes endometriosis care as a patient-centered, whole-body experience.
Links & Resources-
Connect with Marissa Plescia
Endometriosis women's health chronic pain ACOG guidelines pelvic pain Diagnosis healthcare innovation Gynecology Inflammation Fertility patient-centered care virtual health Visana Health chronic illness medical education pain management OB-GYN holistic care
Episode Highlights-
00:00–00:28 – Introduction to new endometriosis guidelines and guest
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00:00:37–00:01:11 – Dr. Levy's background and overview of Visana Health
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00:01:50–00:02:28 – What endometriosis is: a systemic inflammatory condition
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00:02:28–00:03:26 – Key shift: diagnosis no longer requires surgery
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00:03:26–00:03:54 – Importance of validating women's symptoms
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00:04:17–00:04:49 – Prevalence: ~10% of women affected globally
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00:04:49–00:05:52 – Historical dismissal and impact on quality of life
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00:06:45–00:07:48 – Modern treatment: from diet to hormonal therapy
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00:07:48–00:08:42 – Chronic pain, muscle tension, and mind-body connection
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00:08:53–00:10:01 – Personalized care approach at Visana Health
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00:10:01–00:11:19 – Education gaps in medication usage
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00:11:37–00:12:10 – Why diagnosis has been historically difficult
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00:13:47–00:15:02 – Need for research into root causes and biomarkers
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00:15:52–00:17:28 – Gaps in physician training on chronic pain
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00:17:47–00:18:53 – Final message: listening to women is key to better care