Margareta Pisarska, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist at Cedars-Sinai, investigates how genetic and epigenetic factors influence early embryo implantation. Her work as a fertility specialist aims to improve pregnancy success and outcomes. Recently, her lab published findings in Biology of Sex Differences showing that the placenta undergoes epigenetic changes during the first trimester that has far-reaching effects.

"Our research shows that lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and environmental exposures play an important role in supporting healthy pregnancies," said Pisarska.

The Object: A small sky-blue photo album titled "The Year of the Workout" that Pisarska received as a Christmas gift from her children in 2014.

Why It’s Important: The book illustrates the year Pisarska realized she’d been sidelining her health. Photos document her transition after she decided to eat healthy and exercise daily. In between patients, she sometimes looks at the album.

"Now, when I talk to patients trying to conceive, I am able to help them make healthy lifestyle changes that can have far reaching effects on them, their pregnancies and their future families," she said.