A study by Yale University researchers found that very few women undergo bilateral salpingectomy with ovarian conservation during hysterectomies for non-cancerous conditions. The procedure may help protect against ovarian cancer and preserve hormonal levels, but its use varies widely among hospitals across the US.
A new algorithm assesses adnexal masses with ultrasound, identifying 89-99% of patients with ovarian cancer. The approach allows for individualized patient management and potentially levels the playing field in expert interpretation.
A new study found that out-of-hospital births in Oregon were associated with a higher risk of perinatal death, while in-hospital births were linked to increased cesarean deliveries and other obstetric interventions. However, the overall risk for perinatal death was low in all settings.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that metformin decreases the production of toxins elevated in preeclampsia and helps heal injured blood vessels. The drug is considered safe during pregnancy, offering a potential new treatment option for women with preeclampsia.
New research suggests that low-dose aspirin should be given prophylactically to all women at high risk of preeclampsia, which affects 3-7% of births in the US. The approach could reduce morbidity, save lives and lower healthcare costs.
A new study finds that minimally invasive hysterectomies for early uterine cancer are less accessible to poor and minority women, despite being linked to fewer postoperative complications. The procedures occurred only 23.6% of the time in low-volume hospitals, which performed fewer than 10 hysterectomies annually.
Gynecologists argue the FDA's warning on power-morcellation is based on flawed data and may limit access to safe, effective treatment options for women. The study group suggests that better preoperative identification and new techniques could improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine discovered that genetic material from ancient viral infections is critical to human development. Blocking the production of a specific RNA molecule stops development in its tracks, they found.
A new study suggests using contingent screening could detect higher proportions of affected pregnancies, but parental choices limit its impact. Only 60% of women considered high-risk after standard first-trimester screening choose cfDNA testing, resulting in a limited effect on live births with trisomy 21.
Advanced laser surgery and echocardiography predict fetal development and survival in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies. Dr. Audibert presents results from 115 treated cases, exploring the usefulness of these techniques to improve outcomes.
The World Congress of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics has adopted recommendations from the Perinatology Research Branch at Wayne State University to prevent preterm birth. These guidelines include daily vaginal progesterone treatment for women with short cervices, which can reduce the risk by nearly half.
The American College of Physicians recommends against routine pelvic exams for asymptomatic adult women due to low diagnostic accuracy. In contrast, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology maintains that annual exams are necessary for recognizing issues like incontinence and sexual dysfunction.
Northwestern Medicine researchers aim to develop new treatments for uterine fibroids using novel targets and pathways. The NIH grant supports projects focused on progesterone effects, nuclear receptors, and AKT pathway modification.
The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics calls for increased efforts to prevent exposure to toxic chemicals, linked to reproductive issues such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and cancer. The group advocates for policies to protect patients and communities from involuntary chemical exposure.
Georgia Regents University is among 15 institutions receiving federal funding to train the next generation of physician-scientists in obstetrics and gynecology. The program will support junior faculty, residents, and fellows in research, enabling them to focus on research for at least 30 hours weekly.
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that privately insured pregnant women with 24-hour OB coverage and midwife care had lower C-section rates compared to those with traditional care. The study, which tracked data from 2011-2014, showed a significant decrease in C-sections among these patients.
A large international randomized clinical trial found that cervical pessary insertion did not reduce spontaneous preterm births or neonatal complications in women with twins. The study, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, included 1,180 twin pregnancies and showed no significant differences between groups.
Research reveals that women outnumber men in 7 medical specialties, with the highest representation in pediatrics and obstetrics/gynecology. However, significant disparities remain in black and Hispanic trainee numbers compared to the U.S. population.
A recent US study found that fetal electrocardiogram ST segment analysis does not improve outcomes during labor and delivery or decrease cesarean deliveries compared to conventional fetal heart rate monitoring. The research involved 11,108 randomized patients and found no significant differences in negative outcomes.
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada has selected Elsevier to publish its journal JOGC, a leading peer-reviewed publication on obstetrics and gynaecology. The partnership aims to improve the journal's content and services for its members and the wider medical community.
Scientists will develop an implantable drug delivery system to deliver antiretroviral drugs, providing protection against HIV infection for up to a year. The project aims to improve upon current methods of prevention, which have low adherence rates.
Researchers found that breast cancer survivors who used liquid lidocaine on the vulvar vestibule experienced reduced pain and improved sexual function. The study's results suggest that this non-invasive treatment could alleviate physical and emotional pain associated with sex, making it more enjoyable for both individuals.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that the 2011 duty hour reform did not decrease serious postoperative complications in surgical patients. The researchers evaluated outcomes in five surgical specialties, including neurosurgery, obstetrics/gynecology, and vascular surgery, and found no signi...
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified two proteins responsible for initiating the labor process, which control genes for pulmonary surfactant components that promote labor. Surfactant is essential for normal breathing outside the womb. Understanding these molecular mechanisms may help prevent preterm birth.
A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that immediate birth control implant insertion after childbirth is more cost-effective than delaying it to a 6-8 week postpartum visit. The study estimates that immediate contraception can avert 191 unintended pregnancies and save over $1 million in the first year.
Research reveals that nearly a third of low-risk pregnancies experience unexpected complications requiring non-routine obstetric or neonatal care. The study analyzed data from over 10 million birth certificates and found that women without prenatal risk factors may still face unexpected complications during delivery or postpartum.
Cerebral palsy cases can be attributed to genetic mutations in up to 45% of cases, according to a study by the Australian Cerebral Palsy Research Group. The research suggests that genetic sequencing techniques will increase the identification of genetically caused cerebral palsy cases.
A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women born preterm have a significantly higher risk of giving birth to preterm children. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,400 Quebec women born preterm and compared it to women born at term, revealing a 13% difference in preterm delivery rates.
A University of Alberta study found that prenatal exercise lowers the risk of Caesarean sections and larger-than-average babies. Women who exercised had a 31% lower risk of giving birth to an oversized baby without increasing the risk of smaller or earlier births.
A survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults found that miscarriages are common, affecting one in four pregnancies, yet many believe them to be rare. Participants also incorrectly perceived causes of miscarriage, including genetics, stress, and lifestyle choices, highlighting the need for better education about this topic.
A new analysis found no link between induction of labor at full term and rates of C section in uncomplicated pregnancies. Induction was associated with slightly less blood loss and lower risk of meconium staining, but birth weight was lower in induced babies by 136 grams.
Researchers found a significant excess of obstetrics beds in NYC hospitals, resulting in wasted resources and estimated annual costs of $26.4 million. Reducing cesarean section rates by even a small percentage could lead to large savings and improved patient access to care.
A large study found that most women, regardless of their background, experience urinary urgency and stress incontinence during menopause. The strongest associations with seeking care were worsening and persistence of symptoms, highlighting the importance of discussing treatment options with a healthcare provider.
Experts recommend using ultrasound as the first line of imaging for patients with pelvic symptoms due to its cost-effectiveness and safety. Ultrasound has evolved to be an effective tool for evaluating gynecologic patients, providing accurate results without radiation exposure.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that laparoscopic hysterectomy with morcellation is associated with fewer postoperative complications and improved quality of life compared to abdominal surgery. The study used decision-tree analysis to compare outcomes according to the probability of compli...
A large-scale study found a 0.22% incidence of uterine sarcoma in women after hysterectomy, with most cases being unexpected endometrial cancer. Researchers emphasized the need to balance minimally-invasive procedures with cautious preoperative planning.
Researchers found hormonal IUDs and contraceptive implants to be highly effective one year beyond their approved duration of use, with no pregnancies reported in the implant group. The study aims to enroll a total of 800 women to determine if these methods are effective for up to three years beyond FDA-approved duration.
The non-invasive first trimester blood test reliably detects Down syndrome in over 99% of cases, making it superior to other testing methods.
A new study published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found a link between pain during or after sexual intercourse and mode of delivery. Women who had an operative vaginal birth assisted by vacuum extraction, forceps, or caesarean section were at higher risk for persisting dyspareunia. Intimate partner a...
Healthcare workers face difficulties in differentiating between obstetric emergencies and suspected Ebola cases, while limited evidence exists on asymptomatic pregnant women. The article highlights the need for continual assessment of minimising risk to healthcare workers while providing lifesaving care.
A study of over 3,000 women in Michigan found that nearly 40% did not receive alternative treatment before their hysterectomy. Nearly two in five women under 40 had unsupportive pathology, suggesting that treatment guidelines are often not followed.
A recent FDA and EPA guideline update suggests pregnant and breastfeeding women consume at least eight ounces to 12 ounces of fish per week. Omega-3 acids EPA and DHA found in some fish support fetal brain development and maternal health, while mercury levels in other fish pose risks.
Temple University School of Medicine has received a $100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop a non-invasive maternal blood test that predicts abnormal fetal neurodevelopment. The project aims to identify biomarkers in maternal blood that can predict healthy fetal brain development and guide interventions.
A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that robotic-assisted surgery for benign ovarian surgery has more complications and is significantly more expensive than conventional laparoscopic surgery. The median total cost of robot-assisted oophorectomy was $7,426, compared to $4,922 for conventional laparoscopic oophorectomy.
The article presents a framework for future development of fetal interventions while minimizing maternal risk. Experts highlight the need to limit the number of fetal surgery centers due to high costs and rare conditions.
Research finds young multiparous women and those living in remote areas are at greatest risk of unplanned deliveries, which may increase infant mortality. The study suggests that limited access to proper medical care contributes to the increased risk.
A new commentary suggests China's high caesarean section rate is driven by factors such as provider incentives, cultural preferences, and the healthcare system's structure. The current rate of over 50% may be revised with the relaxation of the One Child Policy and an increase in repeat caesarean sections.
University of Iowa researchers have identified a biomarker that can predict preeclampsia at least 6 weeks into pregnancy, enabling early detection and potentially preventing severe health issues. The study's findings hold significant implications for obstetric care in rural and underserved communities.
A Yale University study found a 50% drop in obstetric malpractice liability claims and payments after implementing patient safety measures, including standardized care and teamwork training. The hospital's efforts reduced liability claims by 95%, saving over $47 million.
A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that iron supplements improved energy, physical function, and social function in women with heavy menstrual bleeding. After one year of treatment, anemic women showed significant increases in these areas compared to non-anemic women.
Women with shorter birth spacing have shorter pregnancy lengths, increasing the risk of preterm birth. African-American women are more likely to experience this issue, regardless of timing.
A substantial proportion of hypertensive pregnant women have obstructive sleep apnea, a sleeping disorder that can reduce blood oxygen levels during the night. Habitual snoring is often an early sign to identify this risk, which can improve health outcomes if recognized and managed.
Women who received collaborative care for depression at an obstetrics and gynecology clinic showed significant reduction in symptoms, with more than half experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder as well. The approach, called Depression Attention for Women Now, improved patient engagement, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care.
Dr. Charles Rardin suggests hospitals and physicians consider four issues to promote a balanced approach to Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), including case criteria, quality management, and support for all forms of MIS. This approach is necessary to ensure patients receive the best care and avoid 'robotic factories'.
Two studies from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine show that patients are often unaware of proper weight gain during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of improved communication. Additionally, research on prenatal testing for morbidly obese women reveals no increased risk of complications or early delivery.
A new study by Yale University and UC Davis researchers found that hysteroscopic sterilization is more than 10 times more likely to result in pregnancy over a 10-year period compared to laparoscopic sterilization. The study highlights the need for informed decision-making among women considering sterilization.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are investigating the role of genetic variations, infection, inflammation, fetal lung development, and cervical ripening in triggering preterm labor. The study aims to identify women at risk of preterm labor and develop new treatments to prevent it.
The Ohio State University has partnered with MedVax Technologies Inc. to develop a cancer peptide vaccine technology for the treatment and prevention of several types of cancer. The partnership aims to bring this groundbreaking technology into clinical trials in the near future, with the goal of improving patient outcomes.
A new theory proposes that epigenetic modification plays a key role in the development of endometriosis, a chronic disease affecting 1 in 10 women. The research suggests that alterations in the epigenetic landscape, rather than genetic mutations, contribute to the disease's progression.
Group A streptococcus (GAS) infection can be life-threatening in pregnant women, with associated mortality rates of 30-50%. Dr. Brenna Anderson provides recommendations for rapid diagnosis and treatment of GAS infections in pregnant and postpartum women.