Infertility

Results of a UK study show that while intrauterine infection may contribute to preterm birth (PTB), a reproducible “preterm placental microbiome” does not exist. Plus: Depression in the male partner of couples being treated for infertility was linked to lower pregnancy chances, according to results of a recent study.

A first-of-its-kind epidemiologic study shows a link between exposure to organophosphate flame retardants (PFRs) and infertility.

The large body of evidence citing the effectiveness of IVF and recent advances promoting the safety of ART, including the widespread adoption of SET, have established IVF as a reasonable first-line alternative for many infertile couples rather than the treatment of last resort it was once regarded.

Recent studies suggest that a progestin-induced withdrawal bleed may reduce conception and live birth rates in women undergoing ovulation induction with clomiphene citrate.

Healthy women have higher levels of protective lactobacilli in their vaginal microbiome than women with infertility, according to a recent cross-sectional study.

A systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that in pregnancies conceived via assisted reproduction, risk of adverse perinatal outcomes may be higher with donated than with autologous oocytes. Plus: Do post-cesarean antibiotics reduce infections in obese women? Also: Researchers believe they have identified the genes associated with preterm delivery.

A CDC report looks at how effective messaging on postpartum contraception is in teenagers and the impact on repeat births. Plus: Does preeclampsia increase the risk of stroke? Also, a look at whether an old imaging technique could increase fertility.

A study looks at the impact of failed ART on the cardiovascular health of women. Plus: Does a pregnancy near the time of breast cancer lead to worse outcomes. Also, a look at how many women may have little to no access to fertility services.

Editorial director Susan C. Olmstead talks with Dr. Steven Ory about the so-called three-parent baby technique.

Fibroids are extremely common in women of reproductive age. One large study reported that 70% of Caucasian and 80% of African-American women had at least one ultrasound- or pathology-confirmed fibroid by the end of their reproductive years. While many of these women experience no negative effects of fibroids on their reproductive function, a significant number are at increased risk of infertility, miscarriage, or poor obstetric outcomes.

Following a cesarean delivery, a mother wonders why she hasn't become pregnant again and the neonate ends up in the NICU with skull fractures.

How would a male gynecologist begin to know anything about a woman's orgasm? Easy. In my pre-operative counseling for hysterectomy I discuss sexuality, orgasm, and hysterectomy. And I tell my patient that a year later I'm going to ask her about it. But this is not a controlled scientific study, so before telling you what I am hearing, let's look at some real data.

A new study questions whether the risk of infertility linked to endometriosis is as bad as previously thought.

A new study looks at whether breast density letters are too difficult for the typical woman to understand. Plus: The FDA issues a warning on fluconazole and miscarriage. Also, do irregular menses provide protection against ovarian cancer or increase risk?

Evidence on which to base management of RPL is limited, challenging ob/gyns with patients facing this stressful diagnosis.

A small Danish study examines if a link exists between asthma and infertility. Plus: Can regular exercise during pregnancy prevent maternal hypertension?

A prospective cohort study looked at a possible link.

A new study looks at whether high doses of some hormones are impeding IVF success. Plus: Do progesterone supplements help women with a history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss?

A population analysis examines if preeclampsia may serve as a warning sign for heart defects in the neonate. Also, do chlamydia antibodies mean reduced fertility? Plus: Can ovary removal help CVD risk in diabetic women?

The results of a new study on Vitamin D and pregnancy outcome. Plus, Is foam the future of nonsurgical female sterilization? And: Choosing a GnRH dose for ovarian stimulation

Experts present the two sides to this issue, basing their arguments on outcomes data and likelihood of success.

The FDA looks at the benefit/risk profile of Essure. And, what place does MRI have in breast cancer treatment? Plus: A look at ovarian stimulating agents.

News, a surgical video, and links related to infertility and fertility preservation.

Unsuccessful fertility treatment takes a toll on both partners, and knowing their mental health history can help predict depression risk.

Miscarriage unfortunately is a common part of OB/GYN, but do you ever wonder what your patients are feeling? This blog addresses one patient's experience.

Less may be more when it comes to surgical management.

Assisted reproductive technology is often thought to account for the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth, but new research finds another factor plays a role.

A new report by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology has shown a shift in women's preferences for the number of embryos transferred.

A look at the science behind 3-parent embryos and the legal complexities that may follow.