Penn State Health - Family Matters: Women’s Health 2026

Penn State Health presents Family Matters: Women’s Health, a special program focused on family planning, pregnancy, postpartum care, preventive health, and lifelong wellness. Learn how the team of women’s health experts partners with pediatric specialists at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital to provide coordinated care for mothers and babies, from routine pregnancies to the most complex medical challenges. You'll also meet a family whose journey through four high-risk pregnancies showcases the expertise, teamwork, and compassionate care that helped guide them every step of the way. CHAPTERS 0:00 – Introduction 01:35 – Dr. Vanessa McDonald shares key steps women can take when planning a family and discusses why feeling heard and supported by their healthcare team matters at every stage, from preconception through pregnancy, delivery, and beyond. 5:54 – Dr. Raliat Bashua answers viewer questions about annual wellness exams and explains how Penn State Health tailors care to meet each woman’s individual needs. 8:57 – Patient Alicia Shipkowski reflects on her journey through four high-risk pregnancies and how the maternal fetal medicine team, Complex Fetal Care Center, pediatric specialists, and NICU at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital helped guide her family through complex medical challenges. 15:45 – Dr. John Breinholt discusses the collaborative approach between pediatric cardiology, maternal fetal medicine, and the Complex Fetal Care Center that helps families navigate heart conditions identified before birth. 16:42 – Dr. Jaimey Pauli explains how maternal fetal medicine specialists provide comprehensive care and support for women throughout high-risk pregnancies, delivery, and the postpartum period. 17:36 – Dr. Raliat Bashua talks about recognizing the signs of postpartum emotional challenges and when women should seek guidance and support from a healthcare professional. 21:30 – Dr. Jaimey Pauli and Dr. Vanessa McDonald encourage women to prioritize their own health through preventive care, including annual exams and routine mammograms