Dr. Liz Wayne, host of the Office Hours podcast, is joined by Dr. Michelle Oyen, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Wayne State University, for an in-depth discussion on pregnancy through an engineering lens. Oyen shares how biomechanics, materials science, and data analysis are transforming our understanding of pregnancy, from placental development to preterm birth—the leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. Together, they explore the mechanical properties of the amniotic sac, how environmental factors like atmospheric pressure can influence birth outcomes, and why pregnancy remains one of the most understudied areas in medicine. The conversation highlights both the challenges of researching pregnancy and the powerful role biomedical engineering can play in advancing women’s and maternal health.

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Follow Dr. Michelle Oyen's:
Linkedin: @Michelle Oyen

Links to Michelle Oyen's Work:

Engineering is Pregnant with Possibilities

Virtual Pregnancies: Predicting and Preventing Pregnancy Complications with Digital Twins

FDA Modernization Act 2.0 and Reproductive Research

As Mentioned on the Episode:
America’s Stillbirth Crisis: Before a Breath | FULL DOCUMENTARY

Music Credit: “Vlog Music Beat Trailer Showreel Promo Background Intro Theme” by Coma-Media via Pixabay
https://pixabay.com/music/beats-vlog-music-beat-trailer-showreel-promo-background-intro-theme-274290/

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