Antenatal Care: A Comparative Review of Guidelines.

Importance: Antenatal care plays a crucial role in safely monitoring and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, ultimately leading to the best possible perinatal outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published guidelines on antenatal care. Evidence Acquisition: A descriptive review of guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the Public Health Agency of Canada, the World Health Organization, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists regarding antenatal care was conducted. Results: There is a consensus among the reviewed guidelines regarding the necessary appointments during the antenatal period, the proper timing for induction of labor, the number and frequency of laboratory examinations for the assessment of mother's well-being, and management strategies for common physiological problems during pregnancy, such as nausea and vomiting, heartburn, pelvic pain, leg cramps, and symptomatic vaginal discharge. In addition, special consideration should be given for mental health issues and timely referral to a specialist, reassurance of complete maternal vaccination, counseling for safe use of medical agents, and advice for cessation of substance, alcohol, and tobacco use during pregnancy. Controversy surrounds clinical evaluation during the antenatal period, particularly when it comes to the routine use of an oral glucose tolerance test and symphysis-fundal height measurement for assessing fetal growth, whereas routine cardiotocography and fetal movement counting are suggested practices only by Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Of note, recommendations on nutritional interventions and supplementation are offered only by Public Health Agency of Canada and World Health Organization, with some minor discrepancies in the optimal dosage. Conclusions: Antenatal care remains a critical factor in achieving positive outcomes, but there are variations depending on the socioeconomic status of each country. Therefore, the establishment of consistent international protocols for optimal antenatal care is of utmost importance. This can help provide safe guidance for healthcare providers and, consequently, improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.

Correction of the Tuberous Breast with Fat Grafting and Implant: Techniques, Evaluation with BREAST-Q, and Preliminary Results.

BACKGROUND: The correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting has gained popularity in recent years, but it remains unclear whether this new technique can produce patient satisfaction levels comparable to those achieved with implant-based correction. METHODS: This study aimed to compare patients' satisfaction and quality of life using the BREAST-Q questionnaire after correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting and implants. Twenty-four patients (36 breasts) were included in our study. Thirteen patients (15 breasts) had a correction with lipofilling (mean 2.67 interventions) and 11 patients (21 breasts) had an implant-based correction (mean 1 intervention). RESULTS: Both fat and implant treatments showed statistically significant improvements in breast satisfaction (p value=0.001, 0.002, respectively), psychosocial (p value=0.003, 0.003, respectively), and sexual satisfaction (p value=0.008, 0.002, respectively) between the pre-treatment and post-treatment stages. However, the only statistically significant differences between the treatments were observed in the physical condition pre-treatment (p value=0.008) and sexual condition post-treatment (p value=0.030). The outcome of both treatments was not statistically different. Furthermore, the outcome exhibited a statistically significant positive linear relationship with breast satisfaction for both treatments. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that lipofilling can achieve breast and outcome satisfaction comparable to that of implants, although this parity in results comes at the cost of more interventions. These preliminary results lend support to the notion that, as surgeons have access to two equally effective techniques, it is crucial to provide appropriate guidance to patients to ensure their satisfaction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Diagnosis and Management of Macrosomia and Shoulder Dystocia: A Comprehensive Review of Major Guidelines.

Importance: Macrosomia represents the most significant risk factor of shoulder dystocia (SD), which is a severe and emergent complication of vaginal delivery. They are both associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published influential guidelines on the diagnosis and management of fetal macrosomia and SD. Evidence Acquisition: A comparative review of guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), and the Department for Health and Wellbeing of the Government of South Australia on macrosomia and SD was conducted. Results: The ACOG and RANZCOG agree that macrosomia should be defined as birthweight above 4000-4500 g regardless of the gestational age, whereas the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence defines macrosomia as an estimated fetal weight above the 95th percentile. According to ACOG and RANZCOG, ultrasound scans and clinical estimates can be used to rule out fetal macrosomia, although lacking accuracy. Routine induction of labor before 39 weeks of gestation with the sole indication of suspected fetal macrosomia is unanimously not recommended, but an individualized counseling should be provided. Exercise, appropriate diet, and prepregnancy bariatric surgery are mentioned as preventive measures. There is also consensus among the reviewed guidelines regarding the definition and the diagnosis of SD, with the "turtle sign" being the most common sign for its recognition as well as the poor predictability of the reported risk factors. Moreover, there is an overall agreement on the algorithm of SD management with McRoberts technique suggested as first-line maneuver. In addition, appropriate staff training, thorough documentation, and time keeping are crucial aspects of SD management according to all medical societies. Elective delivery for the prevention of SD is discouraged by all the reviewed guidelines. Conclusions: Macrosomia is associated not only with SD but also with maternal and neonatal complications. Similarly, SD can lead to permanent neurologic sequalae, as well as perinatal death if managed in a suboptimal way. Therefore, it is crucial to develop consistent international practice protocols for their prompt diagnosis and effective management in order to safely guide clinical practice and improve pregnancy outcomes.

Fetal Growth Restriction: A Comprehensive Review of Major Guidelines.

Importance: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a common pregnancy complication and a significant contributor of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, mainly due to the lack of effective screening, prevention, and management policies. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published influential guidelines on the management of pregnancies complicated by FGR. Evidence Acquisition: A descriptive review of guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC), the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand, the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, the French College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (FCGO), and the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics on FGR was carried out. Results: Several discrepancies were identified regarding the definition of FGR and small-for-gestational-age fetuses, the diagnostic criteria, and the need of testing for congenital infections. On the contrary, there is an overall agreement among the reviewed guidelines regarding the importance of early universal risk stratification for FGR to accordingly modify the surveillance protocols. Low-risk pregnancies should unanimously be evaluated by serial symphysis fundal height measurement, whereas the high-risk ones warrant increased sonographic surveillance. Following FGR diagnosis, all medical societies agree that umbilical artery Doppler assessment is required to further guide management, whereas amniotic fluid volume evaluation is also recommended by the ACOG, the SOGC, the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand, the FCGO, and the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics. In case of early, severe FGR or FGR accompanied by structural abnormalities, the ACOG, the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the SOGC, and the FCGO support the performance of prenatal diagnostic testing. Consistent protocols also exist on the optimal timing and mode of delivery, the importance of continuous fetal heart rate monitoring during labor, and the need for histopathological examination of the placenta after delivery. On the other hand, guidelines concerning the frequency of fetal growth and Doppler velocimetry evaluation lack uniformity, although most of the reviewed medical societies recommend an average interval of 2 weeks, reduced to weekly or less when umbilical artery abnormalities are detected. Moreover, there is a discrepancy on the appropriate timing for corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate administration, as well as the administration of aspirin as a preventive measure. Cessation of smoking, alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use are proposed as preventive measures to reduce the incidence of FGR. Conclusions: Fetal growth restriction is a clinical entity associated with numerous adverse antenatal and postnatal events, but currently, it has no definitive cure apart from delivery. Thus, the development of uniform international protocols for the early recognition, the adequate surveillance, and the optimal management of growth-restricted fetuses seem of paramount importance to safely guide clinical practice, thereby improving perinatal outcomes of such pregnancies.

Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis: A Comprehensive Review of Guidelines.

Importance: Osteoporosis causes increased morbidity and mortality, and thus poses a significant economic burden to the health systems worldwide. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published major guidelines on diagnosis and management of this common medical entity. Evidence Acquisition: A thorough comparative review of the most influential guidelines from the RACGP (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners), the ESCEO-IOF (European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis-International Osteoporosis Foundation), the NOGG (National Osteoporosis Guideline Group), the NAMS (North American Menopause Society), the ES (Endocrine Society), and the ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) was conducted. Results: The reviewed guidelines generally agree on the definition, the criteria, and investigations used to diagnose osteoporosis. They also concur regarding the risk factors for osteoporosis and the suggested lifestyle modifications (calcium and vitamin D intake, normal body weight, reduction of alcohol consumption, and smoking cessation). However, there is lack of consensus on indications for fracture risk assessment in the general population and the exact indications for bone mineral density assessment. Referral to a bone specialist is reserved for complex cases of osteoporosis (NOGG, NAMS, and ACOG) or in case of inadequate access to care (RACGP). The use of hip protectors to reduce the risk of fractures is supported by RACGP, NOGG, and NAMS, solely for high-risk elderly patients in residential care settings. All guidelines reviewed recognize the efficacy of the pharmacologic agents (ie, bisphosphonates, denosumab, hormone therapy, and parathyroid hormone analogs). Nonetheless, recommendations regarding monitoring of pharmacotherapy differ, primarily in the case of bisphosphonates. The proposed intervals of repeat bone mineral density testing after initiation of drug therapy are set at 2 years (RACGP), 1-3 years (NAMS, ES, and ACOG), or 3-5 years (ESCEO-IOF and NOGG). All guidelines agree upon the restricted use of bone turnover markers only in bone specialist centers for treatment monitoring purposes. Finally, the definition of treatment failure varies among the reviewed guidelines. Conclusions: Osteoporosis is a distressing condition for women, mainly those of postmenopausal age. Thus, it seems of paramount importance to develop consistent international practice protocols for more cost-effective diagnostic and management techniques, in order to improve women's quality of life.

Endometrial scratching during hysteroscopy in women undergoing in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: Endometrial scratching (ES) during hysteroscopy before embryotransfer (ET) remains doubtable on whether it benefits the reproductive outcomes. The optimal technique is not clear and repeated implantation failure as a challenging field in in vitro fertilization (IVF) seems to be the springboard for clinicians to test its effectiveness. Methods: Medline, PMC, ScienceDirect, Scopus, CENTRAL, Google Scholar were searched from their inception up to April 2023 for studies to evaluate the effectiveness of adding endometrial scratching during hysteroscopy before ET. Results: The initial search yielded 959 references, while 12 eligible studies were included in the analyses, involving 2,213 patients. We found that hysteroscopy and concurrent ES before ET resulted in a statistically significant improvement in clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) [RR = 1.50, (95% CI 1.30-1.74), p < 0.0001] and live birth rate (LBR) [RR = 1.67, (95% CI 1.30-2.15), p < 0.0001] with no statistically significant difference on miscarriage rate [RR = 0.80 (95% CI 0.52-1.22), p = 0.30]. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis suggests that hysteroscopy with concurrent ES may be offered in IVF before ET as a potentially improving manipulation. Future randomized trials comparing different patient groups would also provide more precise data on that issue, to clarify specific criteria in the selection of patients. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42023414117).

Laparoscopy in Pregnancy: A Comparative Review of National Guidelines.

Gynecological and general surgical conditions requiring surgical management during pregnancy constitute a medical challenge, which often entails the collaboration of numerous medical specialties. In recent years, laparoscopy in pregnancy has been accepted as a safe alternative to open surgery. This has led gynecological societies to conduct studies and issue guidelines related to laparoscopy in pregnancy, with a view to assisting and guiding clinicians and surgeons. The aim of this study was to review and compare the recommendations from various published national guidelines on laparoscopy in pregnant women. To that end, a descriptive review of guidelines from the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE), the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOCG), and the Collège National des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens Français (CNGOF) was conducted. Regarding diagnosis, the SAGES and SOCG societies recommend ultrasound as the preferred and safe imaging technique during pregnancy. In terms of the optimal timing for laparoscopic intervention, BSGE and SAGES do not restrict the laparoscopic approach based on safety, depending on the gestation week, whereas SOCG and CNGOF propose early second trimester and first and second quarter of pregnancy respectively. There is an overall consensus regarding patient positioning, initial port placement, insufflation pressure during the operation, venous thromboembolic (VTE) prophylaxis, fetal heart monitoring, and tocolysis among the reviewed guidelines. Moreover, only the BSGE mentions the need for corticosteroids, magnesium sulfate, and anti-D prophylactic administration.

Εlectrosurgery: understanding of basic principles, safe practices and applications in gynecologic surgery.

Electrosurgery is a continuously evolving field that has nowadays become a necessity in operating theatres. The expanding use of electrosurgery has been associated with a high number of thermal injuries, thus the fundamental understanding of how each of the energy devices work and their effect on biological tissues is very important and continuing education regarding electrosurgical technology is paramount for avoiding patient complications. This review describes the basic principles and modalities of electrosurgery, their biological effects on tissues and variables that can affect them, the evolution in the field of electrosurgery, its wide use in gynecological procedures, as well as the risk and complications that are commonly seen in electrosurgery.

Investigation and Management of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: A Comprehensive Review of Guidelines.

Importance: Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is one of the most frustrating clinical entities in reproductive medicine requiring not only diagnostic investigation and therapeutic intervention, but also evaluation of the risk for recurrence. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published major guidelines on investigation and management of RPL. Evidence Acquisition: A descriptive review of guidelines from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the French College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, and the German, Austrian, and Swiss Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics on RPL was carried out. Results: There is consensus among the reviewed guidelines that the mainstays of RPL investigation are a detailed personal history and screening for antiphospholipid syndrome and anatomical abnormalities of the uterus. In contrast, inherited thrombophilias, vaginal infections, and immunological and male factors of infertility are not recommended as part of a routine RPL investigation. Several differences exist regarding the necessity of the cytogenetic analysis of the products of conception, parental peripheral blood karyotyping, ovarian reserve testing, screening for thyroid disorders, diabetes or hyperhomocysteinemia, measurement of prolactin levels, and performing endometrial biopsy. Regarding the management of RPL, low-dose aspirin plus heparin is indicated for the treatment of antiphospholipid syndrome and levothyroxine for overt hypothyroidism. Genetic counseling is required in case of abnormal parental karyotype. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, and the French College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians guidelines provide recommendations that are similar on the management of cervical insufficiency based on the previous reproductive history. However, there is no common pathway regarding the management of subclinical hypothyroidism and the surgical repair of congenital and acquired uterine anomalies. Use of heparin for inherited thrombophilias and immunotherapy and anticoagulants for unexplained RPL are not recommended, although progesterone supplementation is suggested by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the German, Austrian, and Swiss Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Conclusions: Recurrent pregnancy loss is a devastating condition for couples. Thus, it seems of paramount importance to develop consistent international practice protocols for cost-effective investigation and management of this early pregnancy complication, with the aim to improve live birth rates.

Hysteroscopic Identification of Intrauterine Pathology in Oocyte Donation Cycles: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Hysteroscopy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis and treatment of intracavitary uterine anomalies. As for recipients where oocyte donation is mandatory, accurate evaluation of previously missed intrauterine pathology may be an important step to optimize implantation process. The aim of this study was to hysteroscopically assess the incidence of unidentified intrauterine pathology prior to embryo transfer in an oocyte recipient population. METHODS: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted between 2013 and 2022 at Assisting Nature In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Centre in Thessaloniki, Greece. The study population consisted of oocyte recipient women who underwent hysteroscopy one-three months before embryo transfer. Furthermore, oocyte recipients after repeated implantation failure were investigated as a subgroup. Any identified pathology was treated accordingly. RESULTS: In total, 180 women underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy prior to embryo transfer with donor oocytes. The mean maternal age at the time of intervention was 38.9 (+5.2) years, while the mean duration of infertility was 6.03 (+1.23) years. Additionally, 21.7% (n=39) of the study population had abnormal hysteroscopic findings. In particular, congenital uterine anomalies (U1a: 1.1% {n=2}, U2a: 5.6% {n=10}, U2b: 2.2% {n=4}) and polyps (n=16) were the main findings in the sample population. Furthermore, 2.8% (n=5) had submucous fibroids and 1.1% (n=2) were diagnosed with intrauterine adhesions. Notably, in recipients after repeated implantation failure intrauterine pathology rates were even higher (39.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Oocyte recipients and especially those with repeated implantation failures probably have high rates of previously undiagnosed intrauterine pathology so, hysteroscopy would be justified in these subfertile populations.

Obesity in Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review of Influential Guidelines.

Importance: Obesity is one of the most common clinical entities complicating pregnancies and is associated with short- and long-term consequences for both the mother and the offspring. Objective: The aim of this study were to review and compare the most recently published influential guidelines on the management of maternal obesity in the preconceptional, antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum period. Evidence Acquisition: A descriptive review of guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on obesity in pregnancy was carried out. Results: There is an overall agreement among the reviewed guidelines regarding the importance of prepregnancy weight loss with behavioral modification, optimization of gestational weight gain, and screening for comorbidities in improving pregnancy outcomes of obese women. Women with previous bariatric surgery should be screened for nutritional deficiencies and have a closer antenatal surveillance, according to all guidelines. In addition, folic acid supplementation is recommended for 1 to 3 months before conception and during the first trimester, but several discrepancies were identified with regard to other vitamins, iodine, calcium, and iron supplementation. All medical societies recommend early screening for gestational diabetes mellitus and early anesthetic assessment in obese women and suggest the use of aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia when additional risk factors are present, although the optimal dosage is controversial. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists point out that specific equipment and adequate resources must be readily available in all health care facilities managing obese pregnant women. Moreover, thromboprophylaxis and prophylactic antibiotics are indicated in case of cesarean delivery, and intrapartum fetal monitoring is justified during active labor in obese patients. However, there are no consistent protocols regarding the fetal surveillance, the monitoring of multiple gestations, the timing and mode of delivery, and the postpartum follow-up, although weight loss and breastfeeding are unanimously supported. Conclusions: Obesity in pregnancy is a significant contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity with a constantly rising global prevalence among reproductive-aged women. Thus, the development of uniform international protocols for the effective management of obese women is of paramount importance to safely guide clinical practice and subsequently improve pregnancy outcomes.

Uterine Leiomyomas and Infertility: A Comparison of National and International Guidelines.

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the female genital track, causing various symptoms and problems, including a possible impact on fertility. The relationship between fibroids and infertility has long been a debate among gynecologists. Management of fibroids in women with otherwise unexplained infertility worldwide lacks standardized, evidence-based guidelines. Therefore, a review of guidelines from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, the Collège National des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens Français, and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine was conducted. There is agreement among all guidelines that the effect of fibroids on fertility is related to their position in the uterus and the alteration of the endometrial cavity. However, whether surgical intervention (laparotomy, laparoscopy, or hysteroscopy) is required varies among committees. More specifically, for submucous myomas, all guidelines agree that surgical intervention is needed. On the other hand, regarding intramural myomas, there is no consensus on what the approach may be. Novel treatments such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) and magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) should only be used in clinical trial settings. Nevertheless, all guidelines agree that medical management of fibroids further delays efforts to conceive and has no role as a stand-alone treatment of fibroids; though, the use of GnRH analogues preoperatively can be useful to improve anemia and/or reduce fibroid volume. There is a need for updated international protocols to be introduced, in order to help clinicians dealing with fibroids and infertility to better suggest the optimal treatment.

Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Testing for Aneuploidies in Singleton Pregnancies: A Comparative Review of Major Guidelines.

Sophisticated screening protocols for genetic abnormalities constitute an important component of current prenatal care, aiming to identify high-risk pregnancies and offer appropriate counseling to parents regarding their options. Definite prenatal diagnosis is only possible by invasive prenatal diagnostic testing (IPDT), mainly including amniocentesis and chorionic villous sampling (CVS). The aim of this comparative review was to summarize and compare the existing recommendations on IPDT from the most influential guidelines. All the reviewed guidelines highlight that IPDT is indicated based on a positive screening test rather than maternal age alone. Other indications arise from medical history and sonography, with significant variations identified between the guidelines. The earlier time for amniocentesis is unequivocally set at ≥15 gestational weeks, whereas for CVS, the earlier limit varies from ≥10 to ≥11 weeks. Certain technical aspects and the overall approach demonstrate significant differences. Periprocedural management regarding Rhesus alloimmunization, virologic status and use of anesthesia or antibiotics are either inconsistent or insufficiently addressed. The synthesis of an evidence-based algorithm for IPDT is of crucial importance to healthcare professionals implicated in prenatal care to avoid unnecessary interventions without compromising optimal prenatal care.

Investigation and management of abnormal uterine bleeding in reproductive-aged women: a descriptive review of national and international recommendations.

PURPOSE: To review and compare the most recently published recommendations on the investigation and management of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive review of recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) and the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) on AUB in reproductive-aged women was carried out. RESULTS: There is a consensus that detailed personal and family history along with physical examination are essential in the investigation of menstrual, intermenstrual or postcoital AUB. All the medical societies recommend transvaginal ultrasound as the first-line imaging modality to determine the AUB cause. Moreover, they agree (except for RANZCOG) that, in women with AUB, endometrial biopsy should only be performed if additional risk factors for endometrial cancer are present. Laboratory tests may be helpful in the AUB investigation; however, there are several discrepancies among the recommendations. Regarding AUB management, NICE, ACOG and SOGC agree that the administration of hormonal or non-hormonal medications should be the first-line treatment modality in bleeding disorders and absent or minor structural pelvic pathology. Surgical management should be preferred in cases of identified polyps, large fibroids or unsuccessful pharmacological treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Since AUB affects a significant proportion of reproductive-aged women, the main objective is to improve the quality of life of these patients without missing cases of malignancy.

Inguinal endometriosis: A systematic review.

Inguinal endometriosis is a very rare entity with uncertain pathophysiology, that poses several diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study aimed to summarize published literature on the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Thus, a systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and the Cochrane Library. An effort was made to numerically analyze all parameters included in case reports and retrospective analyses, as well. The typical and atypical features of this condition, investigations used, type of treatment and histopathology were recorded. More specifications about the surgical treatment, such as operations previously performed, type of surgery and treatment after surgery have been acknowledged. Other sites of endometriosis, the presence of pelvic endometriosis and the follow-up and recurrence have been also documented. Overall, the search yielded 61 eligible studies including 133 cases of inguinal endometriosis. The typical clinical presentation includes a unilateral inguinal mass, with or without catamenial pain. Transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasound was typically used as the first line method of diagnosis. Groin incision and exploratory surgery was the treatment indicated by the majority of the authors, while excision of part of the round ligament was reported in about half of the cases. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were initiated in cases of coexisting endometriosis-related neoplasia. Inguinal recurrence or malignant transformation was rarely reported. The treatment of inguinal endometriosis is surgical and a long-term follow-up is needed. More research is needed on the effectiveness of suppressive hormonal therapy, recurrence rate and its relationship with endometriosis-associated malignancies.

Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy: A Descriptive Review of Guidelines.

IMPORTANCE: Thyroid disorders represent one of the most frequent complications of pregnancy associated with adverse obstetric, fetal, and neonatal outcomes, especially in case of delayed diagnosis and suboptimal management. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review and compare the recommendations of the most recently published guidelines on the diagnosis and management of these common conditions. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A descriptive review of guidelines from the Endocrine Society, the European Thyroid Association, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Thyroid Association, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on thyroid disease in pregnancy was carried out. RESULTS: There is an overall consensus regarding the diagnosis of overt and subclinical hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism in pregnancy using the pregnancy-specific reference ranges and the definition of postpartum thyroiditis. The reviewed guidelines unanimously discourage universal screening for thyroid function abnormalities before and during pregnancy and support targeted screening of high-risk patients by measuring serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. Moreover, they all highlight the need of treating overt hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, not only during pregnancy, but also before conception, suggesting similar management policies and treatment targets. There is also agreement regarding the management of gestational transient hyperthyroidism with hyperemesis gravidarum, suspected fetal thyrotoxicosis, postpartum thyroiditis, and thyroid malignancy. Scanning or treating with radioactive iodine is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. On the other hand, there is controversy on the management of subclinical thyroid disease, thyroid function surveillance protocols, and iodine nutrition recommendations. Of note, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists makes some specific recommendations on the treatment of thyroid storm and thyrotoxic heart failure in pregnant women, whereas the American Thyroid Association makes a special reference to the management of women with thyroid cancer. CONCLUSIONS: As the disorders of the thyroid gland affect a significant proportion of pregnant women, it is of paramount importance to develop uniform international evidence-based protocols for their accurate diagnosis and optimal management, in order to safely guide clinical practice and eventually improve perinatal outcomes.

Prediction Models of Adnexal Masses: State-of-the-Art Review.

IMPORTANCE: Several predictive models and scoring systems have been developed to differentiate between benign and malignant ovarian masses, in order to guide effective management. These models use combinations of patient characteristics, ultrasound markers, and biochemical markers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe, compare, and prioritize, according to their strengths and qualities, all the adnexal prediction models. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: This was a state-of-the-art review, synthesizing the findings of the current published literature on the available prediction models of adnexal masses. RESULTS: The existing models include subjective assessment by expert sonographers, the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis models (logistic regression models 1 and 2, Simple Rules, 3-step strategy, and ADNEX [Assessment of Different NEoplasias in the adneXa] model), the Risk of Malignancy Index, the Risk of Malignancy Ovarian Algorithm, the Gynecologic Imaging Reporting and Data System, and the Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System. Overall, subjective assessment appears to be superior to all prediction models. However, the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis models are probably the best available methods for nonexpert examiners. The Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System is an international approach that incorporates both the common European and North American approaches, but still needs to be validated. CONCLUSIONS: Many prediction models exist for the assessment of adnexal masses. The adoption of a particular model is based on local guidelines, as well as sonographer's experience. The safety of expectant management of adnexal masses with benign ultrasound morphology is still under investigation.

Antenatal depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in pregnant women from routine health care contact in Greece.

OBJECTIVES: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health measures introduced to control it, on mental health, is largely unknown. Research conducted during past epidemics found that pregnant women are more vulnerable psychologically. The aim of this study was to investigate antenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms during this pandemic in Greece. METHODS: All women receiving routine antenatal care, during a three-month period, starting one week after the total lockdown in Greece, in a University department, were asked to fill in two questionnaires, the Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). RESULTS: Overall, 505 women (93.3% of the eligible population) agreed to participate. The prevalence of antenatal depression (EPDS score≥13) in the population of the study was 13.5%. Unplanned pregnancy (OR: 2.447; 95% CI: 1.235-4.846), smoking (OR: 2.268; 95% CI: 1.166-4.411) and antenatal anxiety (OR: 5.074; 95% CI: 2.898-8.883) increased the risk of antenatal depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. State (current)-anxiety affected 34.1% of the participants, whereas Trait (lifetime)-anxiety affected 15.8%. The State-anxiety score (median) was significantly higher than the Trait-anxiety (median) (41 vs. 36; p<0.001), revealing an increase in the levels of anxiety in the pandemic, while there was also a positive linear correlation between the two scales (rho=0.592; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The unprecedented situation of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased anxiety, but not depression levels of pregnant women in Greece. Population level interventions to address adverse effects on anxiety status in the initial phases of similar situations may be helpful in the future.

FIGO (international Federation of Gynecology and obstetrics) initiative on fetal growth: best practice advice for screening, diagnosis, and management of fetal growth restriction.

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as the failure of the fetus to meet its growth potential due to a pathological factor, most commonly placental dysfunction. Worldwide, FGR is a leading cause of stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and short- and long-term morbidity. Ongoing advances in clinical care, especially in definitions, diagnosis, and management of FGR, require efforts to effectively translate these changes to the wide range of obstetric care providers. This article highlights agreements based on current research in the diagnosis and management of FGR, and the areas that need more research to provide further clarification of recommendations. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of available evidence along with practical recommendations concerning the care of pregnancies at risk of or complicated by FGR, with the overall goal to decrease the risk of stillbirth and neonatal mortality and morbidity associated with this condition. To achieve these goals, FIGO (the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) brought together international experts to review and summarize current knowledge of FGR. This summary is directed at multiple stakeholders, including healthcare providers, healthcare delivery organizations and providers, FIGO member societies, and professional organizations. Recognizing the variation in the resources and expertise available for the management of FGR in different countries or regions, this article attempts to take into consideration the unique aspects of antenatal care in low-resource settings (labelled "LRS" in the recommendations). This was achieved by collaboration with authors and FIGO member societies from low-resource settings such as India, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.