Coping styles for sexual dysfunction and stress among married women of reproductive age: a cross-sectional study from Turkiye.

Objectives: To identify sexual dysfunction in married women of reproductive age, and to examine its relationship with stress coping styles. METHODS: The cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted between February and June 2019 at the obstetrics and gynaecology outpatient clinic of Gulhane Training and Research Hospital in Ankara, Turkiye. The sample comprised married women aged 18-49 years who had an active sexual life over the preceding month, and were neither pregnant nor in the postpartum phase. Data was collected using the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Stress Coping Styles Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 22. RESULTS: There were 216 women with mean age 33.58±6.77 years. The mean Female Sexual Function Index score was 22.29±6.08. The mean Stress Coping Styles Scale subscale scores were: self-confident 20.71±3.53, helpless 18.07±4.27, submissive 12.13±3.00, optimistic 13.70±2.35, and seeking social support 11.89±2.01. The total Female Sexual Function Index score had a positive, significant correlation with self-confidence (r=0.15; p=0.03) and seeking social support subscales (r=0.18; p=0.01) and a negative, significant correlation with submissive subscale (r=-0.17; p=0.02) of the Stress Coping Styles Scale. CONCLUSIONS: Establishing awareness among women about sexual dysfunction and improving effective coping styles may contribute to improved sexual health among women.

Effect of education and counselling on reducing pain and anxiety in women undergoing hysterosalpingography: A randomised controlled trial.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of education and counselling on anxiety and pain in women undergoing hysterosalpingography (HSG) as part of infertility treatment. BACKGROUND: The hysterosalpingography has an important diagnostic role in finding the cause of infertility and making a decision on management of treatment. In addition, it is considered a feared procedure in the infertility process and the one about which very little is known. Women often experience anxiety and pain during the HSG procedure. DESIGN: A randomised controlled trial. METHODS: The CONSORT guidelines have been used to describe the methods. Women who were diagnosed with infertility between February-October 2016 were included in the study. The participants were randomised and divided into intervention (52) and control (53) groups. The sociodemographic and obstetric data collection form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and a visual analogue scale were used before the procedure. After the questionnaires were applied to the intervention group, individual learning and counselling sessions were given about the hysterosalpingography process. Brochures were also distributed to the patients for their reference after the learning session. The control group received standard care. RESULTS: When the intervention and control groups were compared, it was found that the education and counselling given before the HSG procedure significantly decreased the level of pain and anxiety felt by women. In addition, a significant positive correlation was found between pain and anxiety after the training in the intervention group. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that the education and counselling given to women before the HSG procedure are effective interventions for reducing pain and anxiety in women undergoing HSG. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: With the application of HSG education and counselling, and the distribution of brochures to each patient, pain and anxiety can be reduced during the HSG procedure.

Unicornuate uterus with a rudimentary horn diagnosed at scheduled third Cesarean Section.

A unicornuate uterus with a rudimentary horn is an anomaly caused by defective fusion of the Müllerian duct, estimated to occur in one in 76,000 pregnancies. Life threateningly heavy bleeding is a highly expected clinical consequence of such pregnancies. According to the known literature, only two living twins and few living singleton pregnancies have been reported up to now. Here we report on an incidentally diagnosed unicornuate uterus with a communicating rudimentary horn, found during a cesarean section of a gravida 3, parity 2 (G3 P2) patient. This case is rather unique since the patient has had three full term pregnancies and three cesarean sections without significant fetal compromise. This delivery and the existing literature showed us that extensive uterine correction surgeries need not be automatically proposed when a unicornuate uterus is diagnosed in the preconception period. Such deliveries indicate that women with this uterine anomaly may have the potential to carry pregnancies to full term.

Cytohistological discrepancies of cervico-vaginal smears and HPV status.

OBJECTIVES: Discrepancies between abnormal cervical cytology or high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) status (cytolo-gy negative/HPV positive) and subsequent histological findings are a common occurrence. After using co-testing, the dis-crepancies between the HR-HPV status and cervical cytology have become an issue. In this study, we aimed to determine the characteristics of women with a discrepancy between histology and cytology/HR-HPV status, in terms of diagnosis, review and identification. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 52 women, patients of the University Hospital between 2013-2015, with cytohistologi-cal or HR-HPV status discrepancy were recruited for the study and retrospectively analyzed. The cytological samples were liquid-based Pap smears, classified according to the 2001 Bethesda system. The HR-HPV status was identified using the Hybrid Capture 2 HR-HPV DNA assay. The histological samples were obtained by cervical biopsy as well as large loop exci-sion of the transformation zone (LLETZ). RESULTS: A cytohistological discrepancy was demonstrated in patients with (-)cytology/HR-HPV(+), ASCUS, LSIL, ASC-H, HSIL, AGC-NOS: 17.3%, 23.07%, 26.9%, 9.5%, 17.3% and 5.7%, respectively. When the degree of atypia in cytology increases, the concurrency of cervical cytology with biopsy also increases. A positive HR-HPV co-test result (19/24, 79.1%) was observed in nearly all CIN2 ≥ (+) cases. Our study emphasizes the significance of HR-HPV testing to determine CIN2 ≥ (+) cases, even in the presence of a normal cytological result. CONCLUSIONS: In case of cytohistological or HR-HPV discrepancies, a careful review of the HR-HPV status and the degree of cytological atypia should be performed before further intervention.

Prenatal diagnosis of the acute meconium peritonitis secondary to ileum volvulus perforation: a case report.

This is an unusual case in comparison to other sonographically described prenatal cases due to very early diagnosis and surgical intervention following prompt delivery. A 40-year-old pregnant, ultrasonography showed presence of cystic structure in the fetal abdomen that was consistent with intestinal dilatation. At 32 weeks' of gestation, repeat ultrasound showed collapse of the bowel dilatation along with the presence of hyperechogenic fluid in the fetal abdominal cavity. Cesarean section was performed. The clinical utility of this report is the recognition that meconium peritonitis (MP) may be diagnosed in the acute phase with typical ultrasound features, and should be considered in the differential diagnoses of cases presented with reduced fetal movements. Although it appears that morbidity and mortality in MP cases depend upon gestational age, this case report may help to manage similar cases for defining the appropriate delivery time and treatment modality after prenatal identification of the problem.

Neopterin: a promising marker for the inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Several markers of low-grade chronic inflammation are altered in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Neopterin (NEO) is a marker of celullar immunity, and oxidative stress, mainly produced by activated macrophages. We aimed to evaluate the NEO levels in PCOS patients and correlate them with antropometric and biochemical parameters. METHODS: The study groups consisted of 69 women with PCOS and 46 healthy controls. Both groups were divided into two subgroups according to their body mass index (BMI): <25 = normoweight, >25 = overweight. The clinical and biochemical parameters and serum NEO levels were analyzed. RESULTS: Circulating levels of NEO were significantly (p < 0.001) higher in women with PCOS (normoweight: 15.9 ± 4.7 nmol/l; overweight 13.3 ± 8.1 nmol/l) compared to controls (normoweight: 8.6 ± 2.0 nmol/l; overweight 9.2 ± 1.8 nmol/l) regardless of their weight classes. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (p < 0.05), free and total testosterone (p < 0.001) were significantly elevated in women with PCOS compared to controls after controlling for the effect of obesity. CONCLUSION: Circulating NEO level s are elevated in PCOS independent of body mass index supporting the suggestion of PCOS is a low-grade chronic inflammatory state.

Chitotriosidase, interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor alpha levels in mild preeclampsia.

OBJECTIVE: Chitotriosidase (ChT) is an activated macrophage marker. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1ß) are mainly produced macrophages. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between serum ChT activity, levels of TNF-α and IL-1ß in patients with mild preeclampsia and normal pregnancy. METHODS: An overall 64 cases, 32 healthy pregnant control women (control group) and 32 women with mild preeclamptic patients (study group), were enrolled in this study. At the beginning of the study, all study participants were matched for age and gestational age. Serum ChT activity was measured by fluorometer; TNF-α and IL-1ß levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: The mean age, gestational week, parity and gravida were similar in the two groups (p > 0.05). Serum ChT activity was significantly higher in the preeclampsia group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Levels of TNF-α and IL-1ß in patients with mild preeclampsia were similar compared to the control group (p > 0.05). In the PE group, serum ChT activity was not correlated with TNF-α and IL-1ß. CONCLUSION: Mild preeclampsia is found associated with higher ChT activity. This result suggests that activated macrophages play a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. This suggestion needs to be confirmed in future studies with larger populations.

Combined approach in a large placental chorioangioma case with intratumoral alcohol injection, cordocentesis, IU transfusion, and amnioreduction.

Large placental chorioangiomas (LPCs) are rare complications of pregnancy and these tumors are associated with increased risk of pregnancy complications. We presented a LPC case at 25th week of gestation, complicated by polyhydramnios and preterm labor in which intratumoral alcohol injection was performed succesfully. Cordocentesis, fetal intrauterine transfusion, and amnioreduction were performed at the same session, as a combined approach. The safety of the procedure was shown by the lack of alcohol in the fetal cord blood sample. Intratumoral alcohol injection is a reliable and effective treatment modality in the management of LPCs and may be combined with other invasive procedures.

Reliability and Validity of a Turkish Version of Multi-Factor Attitude Toward Condoms Scale: A Methodological Study.

ABSTRACT: This study tested the validity and reliability of the Turkish translation of the Multi-Factor Attitude toward Condoms Scale in a sample of Turkish outpatient clients ( N = 336). Internal consistency reliability was demonstrated by a Cronbach α of .82, and test-retest reliability was supported by a positive correlation between initial and retest scores ( p < .05). Construct validity was supported by results of an exploratory factor analysis that yielded a three-factor solution, explaining 71.0% of the variance. The Turkish version of the scale was found to be valid and reliable.

Intrauterine pregnancy after laparoscopic tubal sterilization with bipolar electrocoagulation: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Although ectopic pregnancies, nonviable missed abortions or blighted ova may occur subsequent to female sterilization, intrauterine pregnancy has not been reported. The sterilization failure risk persists for years after the procedure and varies by operator technique, method of tubal occlusion and female age. CASE: A viable, 8-week intrauterine pregnancy developed in a 36-year-old woman, gravidity 3, parity 2, five years after laparoscopic tubal sterilization. CONCLUSION: The possible mechanisms for a pregnancy after tubal sterilization may be spontaneous reanastomosis or fistula formation or a viable endosalpinx caused by the failure of electrocoagulation. Operator failure may occur when the occluding device is placed on the round ligaments. In this case study, the pregnancy was most likely related to a possible fistula formation which could have developed over the years following surgery.

Comparison of different preoperative sublingual misoprostol regimens for surgical termination of first trimester pregnancies: a prospective randomized trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the appropriate dose of sublingual misoprostol administration before dilation and curettage (D&C) of the uterus in first trimester pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN: Ninety nulliparous women who underwent surgical termination of first trimester pregnancy were analyzed prospectively. The first group (n = 30) received a single 200-microg dose, and the second (n = 30) and third (n = 30) groups were administered 2x 200 microg (400 microg) and 3 x 200 microg (600 microg) doses of misoprostol sublingually, respectively, with 1-hour intervals. The main outcomes evaluated were the degree of difficulty of cervical dilation, adverse effects of misoprostol according to dose administered, and participant satisfaction rate with the procedure. RESULTS: The improvement in cervical dilation and the ease of the D&C procedure were more significant in the 600-microg misoprostol arm (p = 0.008). Because the prevalence and severity of the side effects of misoprostol were increased in a dose-dependent manner, the 400-microg arm was found to be the most efficient dose of the study with its high satisfaction rate (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Premedication with misoprostol makes the D&C procedure easier by leading to cervical ripening. By sublingual route 400 microg of misoprostol regimen seems to be appropriate for planned first trimester surgical pregnancy termination under local anesthesia. Misoprostol should be administered only to select and hospitalized patients.

Narrow band imaging hysteroscopy: a new diagnostic technique in recurrent IVF failure?

Narrow band imaging (NBI) is an optical filter technology that improves the visibility of capillaries, veins and other subtle tissue structures, by narrowing the bandwidth of spectral transmittance using optical filters. In this short communication, we want to share our preliminary experience in assisted reproductive technology patients where we had used NBI hysteroscopy for the evaluation of uterine cavity abnormalities who had previous IVF failure.

The Effect of an Education and Counseling Program on Maternal/Neonatal Outcomes in Pregnant Women at Risk of Preeclampsia.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate, in pregnant women at risk for preeclampsia, the effect of an education and counseling program on healthy lifestyle behaviors, self-efficacy, and maternal/neonatal outcomes. METHODS: This study had a randomized controlled trial design and was conducted with 132 pregnant women at risk of preeclampsia and attending an antenatal clinic for routine care. The intervention group received education and counseling focused on preventing preeclampsia and were given a preeclampsia booklet; the control group received standard prenatal care. The members of the 2 groups were seen 4 times during their pregnancies, and once after giving birth. Data were gathered with the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II, the Self-Efficacy Scale (SES), pregnant woman and fetal follow-up forms, and a postpartum data collection form. Permission from the ethics committee was obtained for the study. RESULTS: Education and counseling about preeclampsia had a statistically significant effect on healthy lifestyle behaviors (P < .008). However, we found no statistically significant differences in the total SES scores (P > .0125), systolic and diastolic blood pressure averages, edema status, or feeling the baby move (P > .05). We found differences in terms of physical activity in the first and third follow-ups, and in terms of breathing exercises in the first, second, and third follow-ups (P < .05). Preeclampsia developed in 4 of the pregnant women (7.6%) in the control group but not at all in the intervention group. CONCLUSION: A preeclampsia education and counseling program could help to develop healthy lifestyle behaviors in pregnant women at risk of preeclampsia.

Successful twin pregnancy achieved by assisted reproductive technology in a patient with polycystic ovary syndrome with complex atypical endometrial hyperplasia treated with levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common reproductive endocrinopathy and a major cause of infertility. PCOS may be associated with chronic anovulation and endometrial hyperplasia. Conservative treatment should be considered in young women wishing to preserve their fertility. Standard treatment for complex endometrial hyperplasia is the use of high-dose progesterone, whereas we preferred levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) as a last resort in our patient who was resistant to oral gestagens. We present a case with complex atypical endometrial hyperplasia treated conservatively in a long-term period first by oral gestagens, then by LNG-IUS. In our case, LNG-IUS was more effective than oral systemic progestins, not only for reducing the menstrual blood loss but also for improving the pathological findings. After extraction of LNG-IUS rapid achievement of pregnancy was carried out by intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo transfer and she took home twin babies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first successful twin pregnancy case with ICSI and ET in a patient with oral gestagen resistant endometrial complex/atypical hyperplasia achieved after application of LNG-IUS. In complex atypical hyperplasia, LNG-IUS should be kept in mind as an effective alternative treatment modality before assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Antimullerian hormone levels after laparoscopic endometrioma stripping surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether a change takes place in antimullerian hormone (AMH) levels reflecting the ovarian reserve after laparoscopic endometrioma stripping surgery and to demonstrate if there is any correlation between AMH levels and the sizes of endometriomas. METHOD: Fourty-seven women participated as the study group in this prospective controlled trial, 33 of whom (70.2%) had unilateral and 14 (29.7%) of whom had bilateral endometriomas. Pre- and post-operative serum AMH levels were measured and compared with 17 normo-ovulatory control cases and also correlated with endometrioma sizes. RESULT(S): Mean pre-operative AMH levels of the study group and the normo-ovulatory control cases did not reveal a statistically significant difference (1.62 +/- 1.09 ng/ml and 2.06 +/- 0.51 ng/ml, P > 0.05). Mean level of post-operative serum AMH of the study group decreased from 1.62 +/- 1.09 to 1.39 +/- 1.16. However, this reduction was not statistically significant. (P > 0.05). Pre- and post-operative AMH levels do not reveal a correlation with the size of endometrioma in both group of patients with either unilateral or bilateral endometrioma. CONCLUSION(S): The presence of the endometrioma does not impair the AMH levels. Laparoscopic endometrioma stripping surgery do not appear to cause a damage in the AMH secreting healthy ovarian tissue, in the short-term follow-up. Laparoscopic stripping surgery of endometriomas in experienced hands is currently a valid approach.