Monica Ailawadi Mainigi

Description of Research Expertise

My laboratory focuses on examining the effects of the maternal environment on early implantation and placentation. For example, we are examining the role of ART technologies such as superovulation and frozen embryo transfer on implantation and placentation, as a model for how the maternal hormonal milieu affects early placentation. We are also interested in epigenetic changes, specifically DNA methylation, occurring following ART and how this affects placentation, fetal growth and long-term health of the offspring. In addition, we have developed novel methods to study early human embryo implantation, including a "implantation-on-a-chip" device which is being used to study cells and factors regulating early trophoblast invasion at the earliest point of pregnancy establishment. Specifically we are examining how maternal immune cell subtypes play a role in placentation and may play a role in adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Description of Clinical Expertise

Clincally I see patients with infertilty as well as gynecologic issues including endometriosis and polycystic ovary disease. Additionally I have focused a portion of my clinical practice on adolescent gynecology, focusing on surgical treatment of structural disorders of the reproductive tract and endocrine disorders of puberty and menstruation. I see adolescent patients both at my office at 3701 Market Street as well as during office hours at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Over the past 12 years I have established myself as an expert in the field of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology and am referred patients from throughout the mid-Atlantic.