My name is Malika Orazymbetova, and I am writing to formally express my deep concern and…read moredisappointment regarding the care I received from Dr. Jennifer Briscoe during my recent delivery and postpartum period.
I gave birth naturally on May 12, 2025, under Dr. Briscoe's care. This was my second pregnancy, and I was determined and hopeful to have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Throughout my prenatal visits, multiple doctors reassured me that I was an excellent candidate for vaginal delivery given my age (32) and good health with no medical history. However, Dr. Briscoe was the only physician who strongly discouraged me from trying for a vaginal birth and insisted that she would not "take any risk," even though other medical professionals assessed my risks as minimal.
To be honest, I found Dr. Briscoe's attitude and communication style during my care to be discouraging and dismissive. Her demeanor made me feel uncomfortable and anxious about continuing my delivery under her supervision. Unfortunately, my labor began on a day when she was on duty, leaving me with no choice but to proceed under her care.
During labor, I experienced prolonged contractions and extended pushing, but Dr. Briscoe informed me that my delivery would be "hands-off" -- a term I did not fully understand at the time. Throughout my labor, my husband and sister-in-law were present to support me. My sister-in-law, who wears a head covering, was quietly praying for me in the delivery room, as my family was extremely worried about my prolonged labor. However, Dr. Briscoe's gestures and demeanor made us feel unwelcome and judged, which added unnecessary emotional stress during an already vulnerable moment.
Dr. Briscoe did not monitor me as frequently as expected during the delivery. As a result, I suffered a severe third-degree tear, which, based on my research and medical consultations since, might have been preventable or at least anticipatedgiven my prolonged contractions and pushing time. Had I been informed of this heightened risk, I could have chosen to proceed with a cesarean section to avoid such a traumatic outcome.
The aftermath has been devastating. I have endured intense pain and severe physical complications, including fecal and urinary incontinence, which have lasted for months. I could not sit comfortably for nearly 15 weeks postpartum. These physical challenges have been compounded by emotional distress and postpartum depression, as I struggled to care for my newborn and older twins while coping with pain and loss of dignity.
Adding to this hardship, I requested Dr. Briscoe's assistance in completing necessary medical forms for my employer to process short-term disability leave. Despite providing written authorization for the release of my medical information, Dr. Briscoe refused to include my diagnosis of a third-degree tear. I spent several exhausting weeks exchanging messages with Dr. Briscoe and her assistant, Karen, trying to obtain a properly completed form -- to no avail.
When I later requested another medical form to support a remote work accommodation, the same dismissive and negligent pattern continued. I have had to chase after them repeatedly, often feeling humiliated and ignored, while managing my health and caring for my children.
I am deeply disappointed by the lack of empathy, professionalism, and support I received from Dr. Briscoe and her team. No patient, especially a new mother in pain, should have to fight for basic medical documentation or feel disregarded by the very professionals entrusted with her care.
I kindly request that this matter be reviewed thoroughly. I also ask that appropriate actions be taken to ensure that other patients do not endure the same experience. I am available to provide any supporting documentation or to discuss my case further if needed.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and for your attention to this deeply personal and painful matter.
Sincerely,Malika Orazymbetova