Pediatrix & Obstetrix Clinicians in the News

In addition to the highly specialized care our clinicians provide to patients across the country every day, many also serve as go-to expert sources for top national and regional media outlets. Pediatrix® and Obstetrix® clinicians regularly contribute to news articles, sharing their expertise to help educate readers on popular and trending topics related to women's and children's health, as well as unique stories of innovative patient care. 

Several clinicians recently spoke with Parents. Here's a roundup of the articles:

Jenelle Ferry, M.D., a neonatologist, discussed how raw milk differs from breast milk. Raw milk has become increasingly popular on social media, even as leading medical organizations warn against consuming unpasteurized milk. As some influencers draw comparisons between raw milk and breast milk, the American Academy of Pediatrics is cautioning families about the potential dangers of raw milk consumption. Dr. Ferry said the most significant differences between breast milk and raw milk are their immunologic and bioactive properties. "Growth factors, immune factors, hormones, digestive enzymes and immunoglobulins are all present in human milk and necessary for how humans develop and adapt," she said. All children are vulnerable here, she pointed out. "When looking at reported raw milk outbreaks, you will find that children are disproportionately represented – this means they are way more likely to get sick," said Dr. Ferry. "They are also at a much higher risk of getting invasive diseases and developing severe complications."

Summer Okimoto, CNM, a certified nurse-midwife, discussed postpartum pelvic floor disorders. Although these conditions are common after pregnancy and childbirth, many moms view symptoms such as urinary leakage as simply part of having a baby. Okimoto explained that these symptoms are not normal, and no one should have to live with ongoing discomfort. "I always tell my patients that if something doesn't feel right, it's worth talking about," said Okimoto. Pelvic floor symptoms are treatable and can be managed. "There are treatments available, and you don't have to just 'deal with it,'" emphasized Okimoto. "You deserve to feel healthy, strong and confident after having a baby."

Fadiyla Dopwell, M.D., a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, discussed "kindergarten readiness," the academic, social-emotional and fine motor skills children are expected to have when they begin school. However, child mental health and development experts are raising concerns about how "readiness" is defined and the increasing expectations placed on kindergartners. "If a parent feels pressured to ensure their child masters all the skills, that can lead to stress for both the parent and child," said Dr. Dopwell. "This pressure can lead to anxiety, feelings of self-doubt for a child if they are told they are not 'ready' and a stressful parent-child dynamic." Dr. Dopwell emphasized that kindergarten readiness is not necessarily harmful; its impact depends on how schools, programs and families define and approach it. Experts also recommend supporting children without comparing their progress to others. "Children have different strengths, interests and areas for growth," said Dr. Dopwell. "Comparisons can often shift attention away from what a child is doing well and toward what they have not yet mastered." Dr. Dopwell suggested focusing on a child's individual accomplishments and remembering that each child brings their own unique abilities and talents.

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