Although he is a pediatric resident, his research topic is related to gynecology. He wants to enhance the quality of life of women after childbirth, and prevent postnatal complications. In January, Dr. Lőrinc Frivaldszky was named the Best First-Year PhD Student at the Centre for Translational Medicine.

Dr. Lőrinc Frivaldszky is a second-year pediatric resident at Bethesda Children's Hospital, joining the PhD program this academic year. His research topic is related to gynecology, but also has connections to pediatric care. “With my supervisor, Márton Keszthelyi, we focus on the quality of life of mothers after childbirth, which also has an impact on the children. It's a pleasure to look into another field but still connect to pediatrics. Expanding my knowledge helps my pediatric work, as it allows me to view mothers from a different perspective and develop an analytical approach.”

 

Dr. Frivaldszky received the final analysis for his first project from his statistician colleagues a few weeks ago. In this study, he is investigating the efficacy and safety of esketamine on postpartum depression. “Esketamine is a promising drug which might help prevent postpartum depression. We conducted the study on women who had a cesarean section, because they have a higher risk of postpartum depression. Esketamine can be administered during cesarean section, in the form of infusion, as a one-time occurrence.” Dr. Frivaldszky's research results confirm the preventive effect of esketamine, so hospitals can likely be recommended to use it for mothers who gave birth to their child by cesarean section. Since this treatment is very safe, it could potentially be offered to everyone. It might be a significant advancement, as postpartum depression is a severe condition with serious consequences.

 

“We have already completed the draft of our article, and we are currently working on its enhancement. Teamwork plays a significant role in the rapid progress of my research. My other topic is still in its infancy, we are still in the planning phase. In that project, we aim to clarify the efficacy and safety of immediate postpartum administration of long‐acting reversible contraception methods.” Dr. Frivaldszky intends to continue researching after obtaining his doctoral degree, he would gladly participate in the training program as a supervisor.

(Szabó Emese)