Leading expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, explains the critical role of lifestyle in reproductive health and details her specialized work in PCOS diagnosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, and advanced fertility treatments at a top academic medical center.
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Advanced Fertility and Reproductive Endocrinology: Diagnosis and Treatment Insights
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- Expertise and Background
- Reproductive Endocrinology Focus
- Lifestyle Impact on Fertility
- PCOS Research and Clinic
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
- Uterine Factor Infertility
- Academic and Professional Affiliations
Expertise and Background
Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, is a highly specialized physician in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. She holds a prestigious academic appointment as a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Her educational background is from leading institutions, having earned her undergraduate degree from Yale University and her medical degree from Harvard Medical School.
Reproductive Endocrinology Focus
The clinical practice of Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, centers on complex fertility challenges. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology followed by a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at Harvard Medical School's teaching hospitals, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. This extensive training provides the foundation for her expertise in diagnosing and treating the most difficult cases of infertility.
Lifestyle Impact on Fertility
A significant area of Dr. Huddleston's research and clinical interest is the profound impact of lifestyle factors on reproductive performance. She investigates how nutrition, exercise, stress, and environmental factors can influence fertility outcomes for both women and men. This holistic approach is integral to the comprehensive care she provides to her patients.
PCOS Research and Clinic
Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, is the Director of the UCSF PCOS Clinic and research program. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder and a leading cause of infertility. Dr. Huddleston leads pioneering research focused on improving the diagnosis and treatment strategies for PCOS, aiming to provide more effective and personalized care for patients with this condition.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Dr. Huddleston possesses deep expertise in evaluating and managing recurrent pregnancy loss. This involves conducting a thorough diagnostic workup to identify potential causes, which can include genetic, anatomical, immunological, and endocrine factors. Her research aims to develop better treatment approaches to help patients achieve a successful pregnancy.
Uterine Factor Infertility
Another key focus for Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, is uterine factor infertility. This refers to abnormalities of the uterus—such as fibroids, adhesions (Asherman's syndrome), or congenital malformations—that can interfere with embryo implantation and the ability to carry a pregnancy. She investigates advanced treatment modalities to address these structural issues.
Academic and Professional Affiliations
In his interview with Dr. Huddleston, Dr. Anton Titov, MD highlights her leadership role as the Director of the Egg Donor Program at UCSF. Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD, is an active member of major professional societies, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These affiliations keep her at the forefront of the latest advancements in reproductive medicine, ensuring her patients receive care based on the most current evidence and techniques.
Full Transcript
Dr. Anton Titov, MD: Good day from San Francisco, California. I am Dr. Anton Titov, MD. Today we are with Dr. Heather Huddleston, MD. She is a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of the Egg Donor Program at the University of California, San Francisco.
Dr. Huddleston received her undergraduate degree from Yale University and her MD from Harvard Medical School. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, both Harvard Medical School teaching hospitals.
Dr. Heather Huddleston is the director of the UCSF PCOS Clinic and research program. Her clinical and research interests are in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and the impact of lifestyle on reproductive performance.
Dr. Huddleston leads research on improving the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. She also investigates recurrent pregnancy loss and treatment approaches for uterine factor infertility, which are abnormalities of the uterus that interfere with pregnancy.
Dr. Huddleston is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Huddleston, thank you and welcome!