Browse OB/GYN Clinical Alert Articles by Topic

Dating Pregnancy: What Is the Most Accurate Method?

The NICHD Fetal Growth Studies – Singletons investigation recently yielded a new formula for determining gestational age based on standard biometric information. When compared to an often-used formula, it appeared to be more accurate after 21 weeks of gestation.

What Do the Urinary Microbiota and Incontinence Have to Do With Each Other?

Increased diversity of the microbiota in women is associated with urgency urinary incontinence symptoms but not with stress urinary incontinence symptoms.

Update on Postpartum Hemorrhage

In the United States, postpartum hemorrhage accounts for 11.4% of maternal deaths, the fourth most common cause after cardiovascular diseases, non-cardiovascular diseases, and infection; worldwide, it is the leading cause of maternal mortality. This feature will discuss the latest treatments for managing postpartum hemorrhage.

Hormone Replacement: Have We Made Progress Since WHI?

Vaginal estrogen may improve vaginal symptoms of menopause and does not increase the risk for endometrial cancer, stroke, or cardiovascular disease.

Trends in OB/GYN Malpractice Litigation

In this review of medicolegal claims data from 2005-2014, obstetric and gynecologic surgery had the second highest average indemnity payment compared to other specialties, topped only by neurosurgery. Of the 10,915 claims identified, the majority (60%) were dropped, withdrawn, or dismissed; 31.1% of claims were paid by the defendant (90% before trial); and 7.5% were successfully defended by the physician.

New Treatment Option for Women at Risk of Fragility Fractures

A randomized trial demonstrated a reduced risk of fragility fractures in high-risk women with osteoporosis treated monthly with the monoclonal antibody romosozumab compared with weekly alendronate.

Management of Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy

Chronic hypertension complicates about 5% of pregnancies and has been associated with higher rates of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), stillbirth, and, most importantly, superimposed preeclampsia. Although the condition is far from being solved, there have been some major inroads made into its understanding through contemporary investigation.

The LNG IUS and Stress Reactivity: A Mechanism for Mood Effects or False Signal?

Users of the levonorgestrel (LNG) intrauterine system showed an exaggerated response to stress compared to women using a combined LNG pill or those with natural cycles.

Just Which Patients Are at Risk of Developing Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids occur commonly and are the most frequent reason for hysterectomy in the United States. Recognizing the risk factors for developing fibroids can help clinicians identify affected individuals and may lead to new approaches to treatment.

Subclinical Hypothyroidism: What Is It and When Should We Treat It?

The current diagnosis and treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism in women of reproductive age is controversial and may well change as new studies become available.