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“This was my second conference with Symposia Medicus and it was fantastic! The speakers were very engaging and I appreciated the relevance of their information.”
– Melanie C. |
“Excellent conference, as usual!”
– Jamie G. |
“I really enjoy Symposia Medicus conferences; I always know they will be well-done, with quality speakers in wonderful locations.”
– Karen O. |

CONFERENCE DESCRIPTION
Our 31st Annual Winter Conference on Clinical Issues in OB/GYN is designed for physicians, certified nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, physician associates, nurses, and other allied healthcare professionals who manage preconception, pregnant, and postpartum patients. This educational activity aims to increase learner knowledge, improve the competence and performance of all attendees, and contribute to their ability to work together as part of a coordinated healthcare team.
Topics for this year’s conference have been selected based on the educational needs underlying identified professional practice gaps. The gaps were derived from a variety of sources including evaluations and outcomes data from past participants, clinical expert input, Symposia Medicus’ online survey, and other medical and nursing data such as current clinical guidelines, research findings, literature reviews, and patient safety considerations.
An outstanding faculty has been assembled for this conference. Each faculty member was selected based on their individual area of expertise and ability to communicate current, evidence-based, and practical information to participants.
The conference format includes didactic lectures, question and answer sessions, case studies, and small group breakouts. Following a group of lectures, the question and answer sessions allow attendees to ask the faculty critical and challenging questions about caring for patients during various OB/GYN situations.
The breakout sessions, designed to facilitate even greater interaction between faculty and participants, offer an opportunity to engage in group discussions on subjects relating to your particular area of interest. Please indicate your breakout session topic choices on the conference registration form in this brochure. Space is limited, so please reserve early.
CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES
As a result of participating in this conference, you should have increased knowledge and enhanced competence to:
• Identify patients with increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage
• Apply evidence-based treatment strategies for menopausal symptoms
• Recognize the early signs of sepsis in pregnancy
• Review the initial work-up of breast abnormalities to detect early breast cancer
• Implement evidence-based labor management strategies, including appropriate use of induction protocols, Pitocin titration, and active labor definitions
ATTENDEE REQUIREMENTS
After attending this conference, participants are entitled to a certificate of credit which will be available online. Successful completion of this activity is determined by attending the live activity, reviewing the educational session materials, and submitting the case studies test, evaluations, surveys, and verification of attendance form. Each participant should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
ACCREDITATION
This accredited continuing education activity was planned and produced in accordance with the ACCME and ANCC Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education.
Symposia Medicus is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Symposia Medicus is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. |
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT
Physicians
Symposia Medicus designates this live activity for a maximum of 18 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
This ACE activity was developed with standards to address California Assembly Bill (AB) 1195 cultural and linguistic competency (CLC) and CA AB 241 implicit bias (IB) to reduce health disparities. Please refer to the accreditation page on our website for resources.
ACOG
Application has been made with the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) for cognates, Formal Learning. Please check our website for updated credit information.
AAFP
Application for CME credit has been filed with the American Academy of Family Physicians. Determination of credit is pending. Please check our website for updated credit information.
Certified Nurse Midwives
The American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) accepts Category 1 CME approval from organizations accredited by the ACCME.
Nurse Practitioners/Nurses
The ANCC contact hours awarded for completion of this conference are 18.
Provider is also approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider #CEP2335, for 21.6 contact hours.
Physician Associates
NCCPA accepts certificates of participation for educational activities certified for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ from organizations accredited by ACCME or a recognized state medical society. Physician associates may receive a maximum of 18 hours of Category 1 credit for completing this program.
Pharmacists
The California Board of Pharmacy accepts as continuing professional education those courses that meet the standard of relevance to pharmacy practice and have been approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
Pharmacotherapeutic Credits for Nurses
This activity is designated for a maximum of 4.5 pharmacotherapeutic credits towards meeting the requirement for nursing pharmacology continuing education. Sessions awarding pharmacotherapeutic credits are denoted with an Rx in the schedule. Please contact your state’s Board of Nursing for specific educational requirements as they may vary state to state.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Each registrant will have online access to the educational session materials on our conference webpage. The educational session materials will be available for download approximately one week prior to the conference. You will receive an email with instructions.
If you are unable to attend this conference, you may purchase an electronic copy of the educational session materials one week after the conference. Please email publications@symposiamedicus.org for more information.
HEALTH & SAFETY AWARENESS
We care about the health and safety of our conference attendees. It is important to think about safety as part of your travel preparations. Visit General Travel Safety Suggestions for more information.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS / GROUND TRANSPORTATION
To receive additional information about the tours, nearby attractions, and ground transportation, please visit our website at www.symposiamedicus.org approximately two months prior to the conference. |

CONFERENCE FACULTY
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP
Conference Co-Chair
Founder & President
Laurie Birkholz, MD & Associates
Holland, Michigan
Curtis Cook, MD, FACOG
Conference Co-Chair
Associate Clinical Professor
Creighton University, Phoenix
Clinical Associate Professor
University of Arizona, Phoenix
Medical Director
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Dignity Health Medical Group
East Valley
Phoenix, Arizona
James Fiorica, MD
Chief Medical Officer
Gynecologic Oncology
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
Clerkship Faculty
Florida State University
Sarasota, Florida
Courtney Martin, DO, MHA, FACOG
OB/GYN Hospitalist
OB Critical Care
MIGS-Certified Surgeon
Maternal Quality & Safety Expert
Hoag Specialty Clinic
Newport Beach, California
Laura E. Riley, MD
Given Foundation Professor & Chair
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Weill Cornell Medicine
Obstetrician & Gynecologist-In-Chief
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
New York City, New York
DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
In accordance with ACCME and ANCC guidelines, Symposia Medicus maintains a policy to ensure balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor in all educational activities. Prior to the planning of this educational activity, all individuals in control of content disclosed all financial relationships with ineligible companies within the past 24 months. Symposia Medicus will mitigate any and all relevant financial relationships before the conference begins. Beyond disclosure and mitigation of relevant financial relationships, faculty are required to disclose when they plan to discuss pharmaceuticals and/or medical devices that are not approved by the FDA and/or medical or surgical procedures that involve an unapproved or “off-label” use of an approved device or pharmaceutical. Symposia Medicus is committed to providing learners with commercially unbiased continuing education activities. This information is intended to assist learners in forming their own judgments about the content presented. Disclosure information will be included in the educational session materials for this activity and speakers will provide a disclosure slide for each presentation, which they will also disclose verbally on site.
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CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Wednesday, February 17
| 7:00am |
Registration & Check-In |
| 8:00 |
Welcome & Introduction
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP & Curtis Cook, MD |
| 8:15 |
Viral Infections in Pregnancy: When to Stress Out About Exposure
(Rx = 30 minutes)
Laura E. Riley, MD |
| 9:00 |
Female Sexual Dysfunction: Part 1
(Rx = 20 minutes)
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP |
| 9:45 |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 10:15 |
Break |
| 10:30 |
Hemorrhage: How to Stop the Bleeding
(Rx = 15 minutes)
Curtis Cook, MD |
| 11:15 |
Evaluation of Breast Lumps & Diagnosis of Breast Cancer
(Rx = 15 minutes)
James Fiorica, MD |
| Noon |
Severe Maternal Morbidity: Turning Data Into Action
Courtney Martin, DO, MHA |
| 12:45pm |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 1:30 |
Adjourn for the Day |
| 5:30-7:00 |
Group Reception
Faculty, Participants, and Guests |
Thursday, February 18
| 8:00am |
Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy & Postpartum
(Rx = 15 minutes)
Curtis Cook, MD |
| 8:45 |
Female Sexual Dysfunction: Part 2
(Rx = 20 minutes)
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP |
| 9:30 |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 10:00 |
Break |
| 10:15 |
Optimizing Labor Management: Evidence-Based Approaches to Improving Outcomes
(Rx = 15 minutes)
Courtney Martin, DO, MHA |
| 11:00 |
Obesity: Management of Labor
(Rx = 15 minutes)
Curtis Cook, MD |
| 11:45 |
Menopause: Treatment of Common Complaints
(Rx = 30 minutes)
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP |
| 12:30pm |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 1:15 |
Adjourn for the Day |
Friday, February 19
| 3:00pm |
Smaller Group Breakouts – Session One |
| • |
• Chronic Pain: A Struggle for the Patient & Provider
Curtis Cook, MD |
| 4:30 |
• Minimally Invasive vs. Open Gynecologic Surgery: Which Is Best?
James Fiorica, MD |
| 5:15 |
• Nurse-Driven Protocols in Obstetrics
Courtney Martin, DO, MHA |
| 5:15 |
• Which Vaccines Should Pregnant Women Get? What You Need to Know
Laura E. Riley, MD |
| 4:30 |
Break |
| 4:45 |
Smaller Group Breakouts – Session Two
(Session One Topics Repeated) |
| 6:15 |
Adjourn for the Day |
Saturday, February 20
| 8:00am |
Management of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
(Rx = 15 minutes)
James Fiorica, MD |
| 8:45 |
Septic & Pregnant: A Practical Approach to Diagnosis & Treatment
(Rx = 30 minutes)
Laura E. Riley, MD |
| 9:30 |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 10:00 |
Break (hotel check-out, if applicable) |
| 10:15 |
STIs in Women: An Update on Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment
(Rx = 20 minutes)
Laurie Birkholz, MD, MSCP |
| 11:00 |
Universal Testing for Hepatitis B & C in Pregnancy: Now What?
(Rx = 15 minutes)
Laura E. Riley, MD |
| 11:45 |
New Guidelines & Management for HPV & Cervical Cancer Screening
(Rx = 15 minutes)
James Fiorica, MD |
| 12:30pm |
Questions & Answers
Group Discussion
Faculty Panel & Audience |
| 1:15 |
Conference Adjourns |
Rx = Pharmacotherapeutic CEUs for nurses
will be granted for these sessions |

CONFERENCE LOCATION
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica, a paradise renowned for its stunning biodiversity, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. From vibrant wildlife to breathtaking landscapes, this Central American gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. Explore the enchanting Arenal Volcano, stroll through the lush paths of Monteverde Cloud Forest, or unwind on the sun-kissed shores of the Pacific Coast. With its warm climate and friendly locals, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure, catering to every traveler’s dream.
Indulge in the ultimate getaway at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa, where luxury meets the beauty of nature. Nestled along the Mansita Beach in Hacienda Pinilla, this exquisite resort boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, world-class amenities, and a serene atmosphere. Guests can unwind at the lavish spa, savor gourmet cuisine at on-site restaurants, play a round on a championship golf course, enjoy the equestrian center and trot along miles of beach and countryside trails, find balance with a yoga class, or take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
With easy access to nearby attractions like local wildlife tours and within driving distance to the town of Tamarindo, the JW Marriott is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes while enjoying unparalleled comfort and service. Experience the magic of Costa Rica and create memories that will last a lifetime!
During conference breaks, you can also venture out of the resort and experience other activities such as fishing, touring national parks, river floating, canoeing, snorkeling, ATV riding, scuba diving, and zip-lining through the canopies of the rain forest. Costa Rica truly is a paradise for those who are in search of a combination of beauty, history, culture, and both land and water sports.
Whatever your pleasure, you’ll be sure to find it in Costa Rica, at our 31st Annual Winter Conference on Clinical Issues in OB/GYN.

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CONFERENCE REGISTRATION, LODGING & TRAVEL INFORMATION
Enrollment for this conference is limited in order to provide the best possible learning environment. Early registration is advised.
You can register and receive conference lodging group rates in the following ways:
• Online via our website, www.symposiamedicus.org; OR
• Call (925) 969-1789 Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm (Pacific Time), with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover; OR
• By mail; make check payable to Symposia Medicus and send along with registration form to:
399 Taylor Blvd., Suite 208, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523-2287
Please visit www.symposiamedicus.org or call (925) 969-1789 for additional questions or information.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION INFORMATION
| TUITION: |
EARLY
If postmarked by
December 9, 2026 |
REGULAR
If postmarked after
December 9, 2026 |
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| Physicians |
$990 |
$1,240 |
| Nurses, PAs, & All Others |
$890 |
$1,140 |
• Discounts are available for retired healthcare providers, active U.S. military, residents, and groups of three or more. For more information, please contact Symposia Medicus prior to registering.
• Tuition includes continuing education, online access to the educational session materials on our conference webpage, and break refreshments for conference registrants. Tuition also includes a group reception for faculty, registrants, and their guests.
• Conference registration will be confirmed via email
CONFERENCE LODGING INFORMATION
Conference group rates have been arranged at the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa. Rooms at our group rates are limited and on a first come, first served basis. PLEASE RESERVE EARLY as rooms may sell out and/or room rates may increase. If you wish to extend your stay, group rates may be available three days before and three days after the conference.
Two nights’ deposit (room rate only) must accompany your reservation. The balance of your lodging, hotel fees as stated below, and all incidental charges are due to the hotel. The hotel accepts most major credit cards.
GROUP RATES STATED BELOW INCLUDE DAILY BUFFET BREAKFAST FOR TWO PEOPLE
| Type of Room |
Group Rates (Single/Double) |
Description |
| Deluxe Garden View |
$399/night |
All rooms are 556 sq. ft. and feature either a king bed or two double beds. Guest rooms offer a closet, bathroom, high-speed internet access, 32” flat screen TV, iPod docking station, Marriott´s luxury bedding, minibar, iron & ironing board, in-room safe, work desk, hair dryer, coffee maker, voice messaging, 24-hour room service, three telephones per room, and a terrace or balcony. Rooms only differ by view and floor. |
| Deluxe Pool View |
$450/night |
| Deluxe Ocean View |
$505/night |
| Deluxe Ocean Front |
$550/night |
| By booking your lodging with Symposia Medicus, you will receive the following on a complimentary basis: in-room and resort-wide internet access, self and valet parking, use of the fitness center, nightly turndown service, complimentary access to the fitness center, volleyball, and giant chess. |
| The resort has a daily resort fee and some items are not included in our group rate. Upon check-in, you may choose to pay the resort fee to receive the additional resort amenities (subject to change). For more information regarding the resort fee, please contact the hotel. |
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Hotel Policies
• Changes to reservations, regardless of reason, made within 30 days of arrival (including changes made onsite at the conference hotel) will be charged the total original reserved stay. If changes are made before 30 days, no penalty will be assessed. Please notify Symposia Medicus of any changes.
• Above conference group rates are per room, per night and do not include the following (subject to change):
• - 13% sales tax
• - $7 mandatory housekeeping charge
• - $9 mandatory one-time bellman fee per person (13 years & older)
• Maximum guestroom occupancy is four, regardless of age (no exceptions)
• Mandatory additional occupant charge (13 years & older) is $45 per person, per night (includes daily buffet
breakfast & taxes)
• Children 12 years & under are complimentary when sharing with parents (includes daily buffet breakfast
& taxes)
• Rollaways & Cribs: Rollaway beds & cribs are both complimentary (based on availability and subject to change)
• Check-in time is 3:00pm and check-out time is noon. A late check-out can only be confirmed on the date of departure by the front desk. Late check-outs are based on availability and additional charges may apply.
• Credit/Debit Card Policy: Upon check-in, the hotel will require a credit card and will place a hold for your total room & tax charges, plus $100/day for incidental charges, for your entire stay. Please be aware that if you use a debit card instead of a credit card, the funds will be immediately deducted from your account (even if you have prepaid your stay). The amount will be based on the average length of your stay, plus an estimate of incidental charges. The length of time for which these holds remain on your credit or debit account varies from bank to bank.
• Parking: Both valet and self-parking are complimentary for all conference guests
Cancellation Policies
• All cancellations must be emailed to registrar@symposiamedicus.org by the dates stated below
• Conference cancellations must be made in writing (via email) to Symposia Medicus and a refund, less a 10% processing fee, will be given. No refunds will be made if cancellation is received after January 13, 2027; however, tuition, less a 10% processing fee, may be applied to a future Symposia Medicus conference.
• Per our hotel contract, hotel reservation cancellations must be made in writing to Symposia Medicus and you will receive a full refund if emailed by December 16, 2026. Between December 17, 2026 and January 13, 2027 one night’s deposit is forfeited. After January 13, 2027, no hotel refunds can be made.
• In the unlikely event of conference cancellation by Symposia Medicus, full tuition and, if reservation was made with Symposia Medicus, hotel deposit refunds will be made. Symposia Medicus will not be responsible for refunding travel or any other expenses.
Travel Policies
• Registrants are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against
unforeseen circumstances, including trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies, travel delays,
and other unexpected events. Symposia Medicus is not responsible for any costs incurred due to changes
in travel plans or event modifications beyond our control.
AIR TRAVEL INFORMATION
The JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa is located in Guanacaste, in the northwest area of Costa Rica. You can fly into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR - known as Liberia International Airport), which is an approximate 1.5 hour drive (dependent on traffic) to the hotel.
Symposia Medicus has arranged for discount fares with Delta and United Airlines for this conference. Reservations can be made either through your travel agency or through the airlines at the website or Convention Desk numbers listed below.
In order to receive the discounted rate, you or your travel agent must refer to the Symposia Medicus Group ID number listed below.
| Delta Airlines |
Discount code was not available at the time of printing this brochure.
Please check our website for updated information once available. |
| United Airlines |
For discounts on United Airlines, please visit www.united.com and click on Advanced Search, located on the bottom left corner of the “Book Travel” box. Once you click on this link, another page will appear. At the bottom of this page, you will insert ZSJ7339506 in the “Promotions and Certificates” box at the end of the page. For questions, please call the United Airlines Convention Desk at (800) 426-1122. |
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