Adolescent gynecology encompasses a distinct and often underserved set of clinical challenges — from menstrual disorders and congenital anomalies to reproductive health counseling and early oncofertility considerations. In this session, Dr. Leslie Appiah draws on her decades of subspecialty expertise to provide a practical framework for evaluating and managing the most common and consequential gynecologic concerns in adolescent patients. Clinicians will gain evidence-based guidance on age-appropriate evaluation, when to refer, and how to build the trust-centered, trauma-informed relationships that set the foundation for lifelong reproductive health. With a lens on equity and community-engaged care, this session is essential for any clinician who sees adolescent girls and young women in their practice.
Leslie Appiah, MD, is Professor and Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Meharry Medical College, Chief of Women’s Health Services at Nashville General Hospital, and Executive Director of the Center for Women’s Health Research. A fellowship-trained pediatric and adolescent gynecologist, she is a nationally recognized leader in fertility preservation, oncofertility, and reproductive health equity.
Previously, Dr. Appiah served as Division Chief of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of the Fertility Preservation and Reproductive Late Effects Program at the University of Colorado. She has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters, delivered over 100 invited national and international lectures. She holds leadership roles in organizations including ASRM, NASPAG, and the Oncofertility Consortium.
An alumna of the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine program, Dr. Appiah has received numerous honors, including recognition as a Denver 5280 Top Doctor, Castle Connolly Exceptional Woman in Medicine, and the AMA Women Physicians Inspiration Award. She is also the founder of Curated Well, a company focused on advancing women’s health through innovative, equity-centered strategy and solutions.
Dr. Appiah is passionate about mentoring future physicians and improving the health of girls and women through compassionate, community-engaged care.