Travel During Pregnancy: Clinical Guidance for Providers

This free webinar features Mark Allen Turrentine, MD, FACOG, a nationally recognized OB-GYN from Texas Children’s Hospital and the Baylor College of Medicine, who also serves as Chair of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee on Practice Bulletins. Dr. Turrentine has authored numerous clinical guidelines, including COVID-19 Vaccination Considerations for Obstetric-Gynecologic Care, and is widely respected for his leadership in advancing evidence-based care for pregnant individuals.

In this provider-focused session, Dr. Turrentine offers clear, practical guidance on how to counsel patients about travel during pregnancy. He reviews current evidence on maternal and fetal health considerations, risks associated with air and long-distance travel, and key factors clinicians should weigh when advising patients. The discussion also highlights special concerns, such as travel during later stages of pregnancy, access to medical care while away from home, and how underlying health conditions may influence recommendations.

Designed specifically for obstetric and gynecologic providers, this webinar equips participants with research-based insights and real-world strategies to support informed decision-making. Attendees will gain confidence in guiding patients through complex travel-related questions, ensuring advice is consistent, up-to-date, and tailored to each individual’s circumstances.


Travel During Pregnancy: Clinical Guidance for Providers

In today’s fast-paced digital environment, misinformation can spread quickly and influence critical health decisions. This free webinar features Dr. Elisabeth Marnik (@sciencewhizliz), a respected scientist and popular science communicator, who has built a strong online presence translating complex medical research into accessible, trustworthy information. Drawing on her expertise as both a researcher and social media influencer, Dr. Marnik provides healthcare professionals with tools to address misinformation and support evidence-based conversations with patients and the public.

During this session, Dr. Marnik explores the unique challenges of communicating about birth defects prevention in an age where social media platforms and online communities often amplify inaccurate or misleading claims. She shares strategies for identifying common myths, framing responses in a way that resonates with patients, and using digital platforms to effectively promote accurate, research-backed guidance.

Designed specifically for healthcare providers, this webinar highlights both the science of communication and the practical steps clinicians can take to strengthen trust with patients. Attendees will come away with actionable approaches to help families navigate online information, foster informed decision-making, and contribute to the broader effort of preventing birth defects through education and advocacy.


Travel During Pregnancy: Clinical Guidance for Providers

In this presentation, Kirstie Perrotta, MPH, from UC San Diego and MotherToBaby California, reviews the risks of respiratory viruses such as COVID-19 and flu during pregnancy, including potential impacts such as miscarriage, birth defects, and pregnancy complications. She also covers the latest data and recommendations for COVID-19, flu, Tdap, and RSV vaccines during pregnancy.

The webinar also covers the latest data and clinical guidance on vaccination during pregnancy, including COVID-19, influenza (flu), Tdap, and RSV vaccines. Attendees will learn how current recommendations are designed to protect both pregnant individuals and their infants, and how to communicate these benefits effectively to patients. Practical insights will be provided on integrating vaccine counseling into routine prenatal care, addressing patient concerns, and promoting informed decision-making.

By the end of this session, participants will leave with a better understanding of the benefits of vaccination for both mom and baby. They will also be able to clearly explain the 2024–2025 vaccine recommendations during pregnancy, supporting evidence-based clinical practice and improving maternal and infant health outcomes.

Continuing Education (CE) credits are available for ACNM members and non-members who view this session via the ACNM Online Learning Center.