The Microbiome

Dr. Ian Fields completed a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery and received a Master of Clinical Research degree from Oregon Health & Sciences University. His research focuses on changes in the urinary microbiome and their association with lower urinary tract symptoms.

Dr. Fields begins the episode by describing the microbiome as “all of the things outside of our cells that make up the human body,” which includes bacteria, viruses, and fungi. He explains that the microbiome may play a role in how humans maintain states of health, in addition to having large impacts on the pathophysiology or development of disease states. Dr. Fields references the Human Microbiome Project, a United States National Institutes of Health research initiative that was aimed to improve the understanding of microbiota in relation to human health and diseases.

The physicians then transition to cover the role of the microbiome, specifically in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Fields explains that the most studied condition is bacterial vaginosis. From a urogynecology perspective, he expresses a particular interest in urinary tract disorders, such as urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, and interstitial cystitis. Dr. Fields emphasizes to listeners that urine is not sterile. In addition, he highlights how the use of vaginal estrogen increases the presence of lactobacillus within the genital microbiome, and thus is beneficial in the settings of genitourinary syndrome of menopause and recurrent menopause.

Dr. Fields concludes the episode by briefly addressing other areas of study regarding the microbiome in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. For example, studies have revealed a link between vaginal microbiota and risk of preterm birth, as well as neonatal gut microbiota and the mode of delivery. Ultimately, Dr. Fields states that the microbiome is an underfunded and understudied aspect of medicine, and he urges listeners to acknowledge the large potential the field has.