Lab Mission
1. To understand the mechanisms of endometriosis-associated pain and develop patient-centered integrative treatments to improve the quality of life people with endometriosis.
2. To understand the care experiences and symptoms of people with endometriosis, fibroids, and other benign gynecologic conditions in order to identify ways to improve clinical discussions, care delivery, and surgical outcomes.
Whitney Ross, MD
Assistant Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology
Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Primary Methods
Our team focuses on quality of life and how different interventions change quality of life. We use patient-reported outcomes (surveys) and collaborate with interdisciplinary groups of clinicians and researchers to approach problems from different perspectives.
Ongoing Studies
Peer Empowered Endometriosis Peer Support (PEEPS): The goal of this study is to provide people with endometriosis-associated pain tools to better manage symptoms. In this 8-week group care approach, we cover topics like pelvic floor physical therapy, pain psychology, sexual function, and nutrition. The study is led by a MIGS surgeon (Whitney Ross), a pain psychologist (Sarah Buday), physical therapists (Emily Yakel and Tracy Spitznagle), and a physical therapist who is also a certified yoga instructor (Kerstin Hoffman).
Fibroid Care Experiences: Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that affect 30-80% of people with a uterus. The goal of this study is to better understand patient experiences in accessing healthcare for symptomatic uterine fibroids. By performing focus groups, we seek to understand barriers to accessing healthcare and improve patient-centered treatment approaches.
Mechanisms of Endometriosis Pain: Endometriosis-associated pain is complex and treatment commonly requires a trial and error approach. In this study conducted in collaboration with Hadas Nahman-Averbuch, Rob Gereu, and Adam Dousron, we seek to determine the factors contributing to endometriosis-pain and to determine, on a molecular level, changes that occur after surgery. By identifying factors that predict clinical pain improvement after surgery we hope to provide ways to better tailor treatments to each patient.
Quality of life after benign gynecologic surgery: In this study, we seek to better understand the impact that minimally invasive surgery for endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, and other benign conditions has on a person’s quality of life. Participants in this study complete surveys before and after surgery in order to see how surgery impacts physical and emotional well-being, sexual function, and other important quality of life markers.
Why a career in research?
): I have heard the stories of so many of my patients suffering from endometriosis, fibroids, and pelvic pain. I love caring for my patients and being a part of their care journey, but the problem and clinical need are way bigger than a clinician or group of physicians can address. I chose a career in research in order to approach problems on a large scale, and hopefully identify effective solutions that can help a larger group of people.
Dr. Ross
Contact
Email – MIGSresearch@wustl.edu