Researchers from UNC School of Medicine, MAHEC, and community partners will address racial disparities in maternal care by improving data accountability and providing community-based doula support. The study aims to decrease pregnancy complications for Black women and improve outcomes in maternal care.
Researchers determined that a woman's 'vascular age' is a better indicator for cardiovascular disease risk than her chronological age or years since menopause. Hormone therapy brings increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but 'vascular age' provides a clearer answer for physicians making decisions about hormone therapy.
Researchers found that Veillonellaceae family members contribute to disease by altering inflammation and metabolism in the cervicovaginal region. The study also identified three specific bacteria species - V. atypica, V. montpellierensis, and M. micronuciformis - that increase inflammation and promote cell death.
A study found that nearly half of patients with gynecologic cancer experience financial toxicity, which can lead to worsening health outcomes. Younger patients are at a higher risk due to limited financial safety nets and ability to work.
A recent study found that tens of thousands of women visited the emergency room for fibroid symptoms, with only 1 in 10 leading to hospital admission. The study suggests that many cases could have been managed in an alternative non-urgent health setting.
A Swedish study found a link between HPV infection and increased risk of preterm birth, even in women without previous abnormal cell changes. The study included over 1 million births and suggested that vaccination against HPV may be beneficial for pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers found that the proportion of non-white residents increased among obstetrics and gynecology, surgical, and nonsurgical training programs. The study suggests improvements in diversity and inclusion efforts are needed to address racial and ethnic disparities in medical education.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics examined the association between paternal drinking before pregnancy and the risk of birth defects in Chinese children. The research found a significant correlation, suggesting that fathers' consumption of alcohol prior to conception may pose a potential threat to fetal development.
Decision theory enhances treatment choices by considering multiple possibilities in contradictory diagnostic findings, as shown in a study of 3753 breast cancer patients. The approach outperformed conventional statistics, providing more accurate results and improving patient outcomes.
Vaccines against diseases like influenza and whooping cough have shown to be lifesaving when administered during pregnancy. Pregnant women are at increased risk of preterm birth or pregnancy loss if they develop severe COVID-19, highlighting the need for guidance on vaccine administration.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new experimental therapy that prevents premature birth using nanosized particles of drugs. The treatment decreases contractions in uterine muscles and could be a clinical option for preventing preterm labor.
A retrospective study of patients with ovarian torsion found that older age, larger ovarian size, and gynecologic oncologist performance were linked to increased oophorectomy rates. The study suggests that surgeon ability to diagnose necrosis is poor, and patient race does not impact the likelihood of oophorectomy.
A study of 193 NYC hospital patients found that 71.6% of Black patients required hospitalization for COVID-19, compared to 46.0% of non-Blacks. Disparities were driven by a higher prevalence of comorbidities among Black patients, not cancer or treatment.
The Penn Center for Multi-Scale Molecular Mapping of the Female Reproductive System will create a comprehensive resource for women's health by documenting the molecular characteristics of individual cells in the female reproductive system.
A study published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology examined the effect of the Growth Assessment Protocol (GAP) on stillbirth rates. The findings suggest that other public health measures are responsible for the decline in stillbirth rate in Scotland, not the GAP program.
A recent Rutgers-led study tracked ob-gyn article citation rates, finding substantial differences between articles published in non-specialty and specialty journals. Top-cited ob-gyn articles from non-specialty journals showed higher levels of evidence, broader appeal, and more frequent citations.
A systematic review from George Washington University finds that telehealth interventions can lead to improved health outcomes in low-risk obstetrics, family planning, and gynecologic conditions. Text messaging and remote monitoring are identified as key components of effective telehealth interventions.
A retrospective study found that participating in childbirth education classes nearly tripled the likelihood of a successful normal vaginal delivery. The study controlled for socioeconomic factors and other differences, suggesting that these classes lead to lower intervention needs and less instrumental deliveries.
SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateJan 8, 2020
A Swedish study of 2,760 women found that induction of labor after 41 full gestational weeks resulted in no deaths, whereas six cases of perinatal death were recorded when labor was waited for until 42 weeks. The study suggests a safer alternative for mothers and babies.
A study of over 50,000 pregnancies reveals that late third trimester ultrasounds can identify previously undetected fetal abnormalities in 0.5% of cases. This benefit highlights the importance of these scans for detecting abnormalities that were missed in earlier first and/or second trimester exams.
A recent study estimated that 6.5% of US women between 18-44 had a forced first sexual intercourse experience, equivalent to over 3.3 million women. Women who experienced forced sex were more likely to have unwanted pregnancies or abortions, and other health problems.
A large international study published in EClinicalMedicine journal reveals that home births have no increased risk of baby's perinatal or neonatal death compared to hospital births. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 intended home births and similar numbers of hospital births in eight countries.
Researchers have identified a combination of gene mutations that are frequently found together in endometrial cancer and endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer. The ARID1A and PIK3CA genes' mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, increasing the risk of cancer.
Researchers found that patients undergoing combined breast and gynecologic surgeries had significantly longer hospital stays and higher complication rates compared to those with single-site surgery. The study highlights the importance of separating these procedures for better patient outcomes.
A multidisciplinary approach called enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is being reviewed for its benefits in speeding up patient recovery from surgery. ERAS involves a holistic approach by involving various healthcare professionals before, during, and after surgery to improve outcomes.
Researchers found women with a history of sexual trauma have unique preferences regarding communication and treatment during pregnancy and childbirth. They recommend improved communication, sensitive language, and control over their care team and examination procedures.
A new oral drug significantly reduced menstrual bleeding in over 90% of premenopausal women with fibroid tumors. Elagolix also prevented estrogen-deficiency induced side effects like hot flashes and bone loss when prescribed with hormone therapy.
Research found that hospitals with teaching status, system affiliation, and higher volume had better TOLAC use and success rates. In contrast, low-volume and rural hospitals struggled with TOLAC use, suggesting opportunities for improvement in these regions.
A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that age-related increases in estrogen levels can weaken abdominal walls and cause inguinal hernias. The researchers discovered that a hormone inhibitor could strengthen muscles and prevent hernias, offering potential treatment for at-risk patients.
A Northwestern Medicine study found that medical schools have a median shortfall of nearly $27,500 per year, adding up to $110,000 for veterans, despite receiving the GI bill. This means that only 45% of medical school tuition is covered by aid compared to 85% for law and 100% for MBA programs.
A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that delayed childbearing is a significant contributor to the increase in multiple births in the US. Older women are more likely to have twins, triplets, and quadruplets, with risks increasing by three to six times depending on age and ethnicity.
A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) has led to an earlier diagnosis of gynecologic cancers in young women, resulting in improved health outcomes and increased survival rates. The study analyzed data from the National Cancer Database and found a significant dec...
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found that mothers who have an episiotomy during their first delivery are more likely to require the procedure in subsequent deliveries. The study of over 43,000 deliveries found a higher likelihood of perineal tissue tears and repeat procedures among women who had an episiotomy.
A recent study published in the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology found that high volume gynecologic surgeons have significantly lower complication rates compared to low volume surgeons. This is especially concerning for women undergoing complex surgeries such as hysterectomies and gynecologic cancer treatments.
A study by UC San Francisco found that one in six women who underwent elective egg freezing experienced regret, despite being empowered by the procedure. Women with lower egg yields and inadequate information about the process were more likely to express regret.
Researchers have developed a more accurate way to screen for preeclampsia, a condition affecting 2-3% of pregnancies, which can lead to serious health effects for both mother and child. The new screening method uses biomarkers to identify high-risk women, resulting in increased detection rates for preterm-PE by up to 82%.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine provides a long-awaited baseline measure of the rate of progression of pelvic organ prolapse. The research found that pelvic organ prolapse progresses slowly, with women who gave birth vaginally being about five years ahead in progression compared to those who delivered by Caesarean section.
A study comparing hysteroscopic and laparoscopic sterilization methods found that hysteroscopic sterilization was associated with a higher risk of gynecological complications, but not with an increased risk of medical outcomes. The study followed 105,357 women in France for one to three years after sterilization.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg suggests that higher education and income are key factors determining whether women participate in cervical screening. The study, which analyzed data from over 581,000 women, found that country of birth was not a significant factor in participation rates.
The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has developed a roadmap for improving the quality of ultrasound imaging in obstetrics and gynecology. A consensus curriculum and competency assessment tools have been established to standardize ultrasound training in residency programs, aiming to enhance patient safety and quality...
The Constance A. Howes Women's Health Innovation Research Fund has awarded $75,000 in grants to three Researchers from Women & Infants Hospital are advancing knowledge and care models related to women's health and gender-based research.
The American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) has published a Best Practice Statement on pelvic organ prolapse, emphasizing the importance of proper evaluation and counseling for women. The statement outlines treatment options, including physical therapy, pessaries, and surgery, tailored to individual patient needs.
Experts recommend quality measures for preterm birth, preeclampsia, cesarean birth, and other high-risk pregnancy complications. The measures aim to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and improve healthcare outcomes.
A new study by University of Utah Health and University of New Mexico School of Medicine found that hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not negatively impact lactation or breastfeeding. Women who received IUDs immediately after birth were able to breastfeed just as well as those who waited several weeks.
Physician burnout rates are alarmingly high, affecting up to 75% of younger clinicians. Simple approaches like taking breaks, exercising, and practicing relaxation techniques can reduce stress and fatigue. The key is early diagnosis and intervention, with awareness of symptoms and the use of stress reduction techniques.
A new study found that home-based HPV self-sampling is an acceptable way to participate in cervical cancer screening programs. Most women chose self-sampling due to its convenience, privacy, and reduced embarrassment.
SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateJun 7, 2017
A new study found that most rape victims experience tonic immobility, a state of involuntary paralysis, during the assault. This condition is associated with an increased risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and severe depression.
SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateJun 7, 2017
The COBRE for Reproductive Health aims to develop research infrastructure for a center supporting interdisciplinary research in women's reproductive health. Four investigators will focus on understanding mechanisms of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and prematurity using pre-clinical models and computational approaches.
The US Preventive Services Task Force found inadequate evidence on screening pelvic examinations for gynecologic conditions, including ovarian cancer and other benign conditions. The examination's accuracy, benefits, and potential harms were not well-established.
Researchers found that glucose supplementation shortens total labor duration by 76 minutes without increasing complication rates. This low-cost and safe intervention is recommended for women experiencing induced labor.
A new review highlights effective interventions for managing health complications from female genital mutilation, sparking further research on addressing the needs of millions affected worldwide. The World Health Organization's guidelines provide a crucial starting point, but more work remains to determine the most effective treatments.
SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·DateFeb 6, 2017
A study published in American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology evaluated treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse, comparing surgery and pessary. The research found that women undergoing surgery experienced greater improvements in physical, social, emotional, and sexual functioning compared to those using a pessary.
Despite full standard investigation, the cause remains unknown in most stillbirth cases. The study highlights the need for further research to improve post mortem techniques to better detect a cause of death. New techniques may help support families and reduce the impact of identifying small babies as a risk factor.
A new smartphone application was found to be an effective tool for teaching comprehensive sexual health to adolescent girls. The study, published in the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, shows a significant increase in participants' knowledge and practical use of contraception after using the app.
A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that nicotine patches and Zyban are effective in helping pregnant women quit smoking, with success rates of 80% and 60%, respectively. The use of these products also reduces the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
A new study shows that removing fallopian tubes during hysterectomies can help prevent ovarian cancer without compromising surgical outcomes. The procedure has been widely adopted in Kaiser Permanente's Northern California system, with no increase in complications or length of stay.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant breakthroughs in the treatment of endometrial and ovarian cancers. A Phase II trial combining everolimus, letrozole, and metformin shows a 67 percent clinical benefit rate for patients with recurrent endometrioid endometrial cancer. Additionally, hormonal maintenance therap...
A study from Northwestern University found that some FDA-approved high-risk medical devices used in obstetrics and gynecology were not effective in clinical trials. The authors recommend increasing the burden of proof required for device approval and relying on higher quality studies.
A study reveals that text messaging is an effective way to monitor postpartum women for life-threatening complications of preeclampsia. The remote blood pressure monitoring system allowed physicians to identify advanced cases and intervene before hospital readmission was necessary.
A study found that traumatic childhood experiences have a profound impact on the mental health of healthcare professionals, causing them to think more deeply about life's meaning. The findings highlight the need for adequate support for clinicians in the aftermath of traumatic childbirth.