Melissa Gilliam

Dr. Melissa Gilliam is an expert in pediatric and adolescent gynecology, helping teens and women age 25 and younger who have complex problems or need routine care. She focuses on providing a youth-friendly atmosphere and is interested in the use of new media and technology. She was named one of the "100 Women to Watch in 2012" by Today's Chicago Woman due to her advocacy for women's health. Dr. Gilliam's research focuses on contraception, family planning, youth development, and sexually transmitted infections. Specifically, she focuses on contraceptive use among teens and women who are at risk for unintended pregnancy. She is the director of The Center for Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Innovation in Sexual and Reproductive Health (Ci3), which unites researchers across the University to examine issues surrounding reproductive health and underlying disparities in access that affect physical, emotional, social, and economic well-being.