Are vaginal estradiol tablets better for VVS than OTC moisturizer or placebo?
March 27th 2018Results of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) suggest that over-the-counter moisturizer may be just as effective as vaginal estrogen tablets for treatment of vulvovaginal symptoms (VVS) in postmenopausal women. Plus: Does a Mediterranean diet help protect bones in postmenopausal women? Also: Metformin, an oral diabetes medication, seems to reduce the likelihood of late miscarriage and premature birth in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to results of a multicenter study.
IVF storage tank failures spark reviews, lawsuits
March 20th 2018Failure of liquid nitrogen storage tanks at two major infertility centers has led to a review of procedures at those and other similar facilities by them and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Plus: Does MHT affect cardiovascular health? Also: Hirsutism treatment and diagnosis updated.
How to prepare for postpartum hemorrhage
March 13th 2018The aim of this paper is not to outline a specific medical-surgical algorithm for managing PPH, but rather to give an overview for system-wide preparedness that should be considered in planning to mitigate this frequent, potentially life-threatening, obstetrical emergency.
New data on vaginal ring support benefits for HIV prevention
March 13th 2018Interim data from two studies of a dapivirine vaginal ring-DREAM and HOPE-lend further credence to the potential benefits of using the device for HIV prevention. Plus: FDA authorizes direct-to-consumer BRCA1/BRCA2 test. Also: A new Zika virus test extends window for accurate diagnosis.
SERM Ospemifene Reduces Vestibular Nerve Fiber Sensitivity
March 12th 2018A newly published pilot study is the first to show that the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) ospemifene effectively normalizes vestibular innervation sensitivity, in addition to confirming that it relieves postmenopausal vestibular signs and symptoms.
Sex hormones only part of the equation in modulating HSDD
March 6th 2018According to a literature review, apart from the essential role that sex hormones play in modulating hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) through therapeutic interventions, a comprehensive understanding of the biologic mechanisms underlying the disorder is imperative.
Is waist-to-hip ratio a better predictor of MI than BMI?
March 6th 2018According to research, the size of a woman’s hips and waist may be the best indicators of her risk of a heart attack. Plus: Adverse risks of pregnancy over 40. Also: Active surveillance of CIN2 is a viable treatment, according to a study.
USPSTF: Ovarian cancer screening not recommended for low-risk women
February 20th 2018In a new statement, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is recommending against ovarian cancer screening for women who have no symptoms and no hereditary cancer syndromes. Plus: Breast MRI screening results in higher biopsy rates, according to a study.
Lower-dose estradiol vaginal cream effectively relieves postmenopausal dyspareunia
February 14th 2018A lower-dose estradiol vaginal cream than is currently available in the United States was an effective and well-tolerated treatment for dyspareunia in postmenopausal women, according to a recent phase 3, randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Cervical Cancer Survivors Have High Scores for Sexual Distress
February 14th 2018Higher levels of distress were linked to increased vaginal sexual symptoms, worry about dyspareunia, dissatisfaction with a relationship, and concerns about body image in a study looking at sexual well-being among cervical cancer survivors.
Drug used for menorrhagia may prevent postpartum hemorrhage
February 13th 2018A drug that is low cost and easy to administer may help prevent maternal deaths, according to results of a randomized clinical trial. Plus: Does air pollution affect menstrual regularity? Also: According to a statement published by the American Heart Association (AHA), breast cancer patients may be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
US initiatives to reduce maternal mortality globally
February 12th 2018To help combat maternal mortality rates globally, the US government has invested more than $15 billion since 2008 in innovative measures to accelerate reduction in deaths. These efforts are led by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).