In recent years, we have seen an increase in research focusing on women’s health, addressing various conditions, and exploring innovative solutions to improve health outcomes. This round-up article presents an overview of the latest studies and their contributions to understanding and advancing women’s health.
This round-up was created with help from our very own Femtech Bot. We welcome your feedback on content and format. If you’re interested in sponsoring this project, please get in touch at research@femtechinsider.com.
1. Double Balloon Combined with Oxytocin in Labor Induction: Analysis of Multivariate Factors Affecting the Efficacy of Cervical Ripening
Research Institution: The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IJWH.S460853
This study retrospectively analyzed 230 pregnant women who underwent cervical ripening double balloon combined with oxytocin for labor induction. Risk factors for successful application included acute chorioamnionitis, fetal distress, and placement of cervical ripening balloon catheter for >12h. Multi-gravidity was identified as a protective factor. The study concludes that multigravida women have a higher success rate, while complications like chorioamnionitis and fetal distress negatively impact success.
Conditions Addressed: Labor induction, cervical ripening
2. A critical feminist study of mothers raising a child on the autism spectrum in Iran
Research Institution: Islamic Azad University
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44294-024-00025-z
This research explores the experiences of mothers raising autistic children in Iran through a critical feminist lens, highlighting systemic issues, class, social structure, and gender dynamics. The study reveals that despite being affected by systemic issues, social institutions, patriarchy, and gender inequality, mothers actively challenge these forces to secure a better future for their children.
Conditions Addressed: Autism, maternal experiences
3. A biobehavioral observational study to understand the multilevel determinants of cardiovascular health in Black women: the BLOOM Study protocol
Research Institution: University of Texas at Arlington
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03182-0
This study protocol describes an observational study to understand cardiovascular health determinants in Black women, combining real-time assessments with lab-based physiological and biological assessments. It aims to inform the development of multilevel lifestyle interventions tailored to Black women based on their lived experiences to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
Conditions Addressed: Cardiovascular health, Black women
4. Sexual and reproductive health in young women with ADHD from the view of health care professionals
Research Institution: Linköping University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03230-9
This study aimed to understand the perceptions of healthcare professionals regarding the sexual and reproductive health of young women with ADHD, highlighting issues of sexual risk-taking, relationship struggles, and the impact of ADHD symptoms. The study concludes that self-stigmatization and hesitation to discuss sexual health may pose risks for young women with ADHD, underscoring the need for healthcare professionals to promote healthy behaviors and relationships.
Conditions Addressed: ADHD, sexual health
5. Clinical efficacy and safety of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery for benign adnexal disease: a prospective trial
Research Institution: Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03226-5
This study assessed the feasibility and safety of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) for managing ovarian cysts. It found that vNOTES is not inferior to conventional laparoscopy, offering benefits like reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and no visible incisions.
Conditions Addressed: Ovarian cysts, minimally invasive surgery
6. Establishment of Risk Nomogram Model of Postpartum Hemorrhage After Second Cesarean Section
Research Institution: Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital
Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IJWH.S459186
This study developed a nomogram model to predict the risk of postpartum hemorrhage in women undergoing a second cesarean section, identifying factors like placenta previa, operation time, prenatal anemia, placenta accreta, and uterine inertia. The model showed good accuracy and differentiation, providing a useful tool for clinicians.
Conditions Addressed: Postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean section
7. Revolutionizing Women’s health: the quest for materials for next-generation, non-hormonal intrauterine devices
Research Institution: University of Guelph, University of Ottawa, University of Toronto
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44294-024-00026-y
This perspective article discusses the development of new materials for non-hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) to alleviate side effects associated with current copper IUDs and explores potential materials like copper alloys and zinc. It highlights the need for innovative and equitable contraceptive care.
Conditions Addressed: Non-hormonal contraceptives, intrauterine devices
8. Bidirectional causality between the levels of blood lipids and endometriosis: a two-sample mendelian randomization study
Research Institution: Sun Yat-sen University, Guangxi Medical University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03213-w
This study examined the causal relationship between blood lipid levels and the risk of endometriosis, finding that high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a protective factor while triglycerides (TG) are a risk factor. The study did not find any effect of endometriosis on lipid levels, suggesting a one-way relationship.
Conditions Addressed: Blood lipids, endometriosis
9. Cohort Profile: Chongqing Pubertal Timing and Environment Study in China with 15 Follow-Ups since 2014
Research Institution: Chongqing Medical University
Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2813-2882/2/3/9
This cohort study aims to understand pubertal timing and identify environmental risk factors among adolescents in Chongqing, China, highlighting associations between environmental exposures and pubertal development. The study found that certain environmental exposures like PAHs and heavy metals are associated with delayed pubertal development.
Conditions Addressed: Puberty, environmental health
10. Quantifying physical resilience after knee or hip surgery in older Australian women based on long term physical functioning trajectories
Research Institution: Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38964288/
This study examined long-term physical functioning trajectories in older women post knee or hip surgery, identifying factors associated with higher resilience and better recovery outcomes. The study found that women with higher resilience had fewer comorbidities, were more physically active, and had better functional independence.
Conditions Addressed: Physical resilience, knee surgery, hip surgery
11. Telemedicine Follow-up After Medication Management of Early Pregnancy Loss
Research Institution: University of Pennsylvania
Link: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jwh.2023.0795
This study evaluated the feasibility of telemedicine follow-up for patients who underwent medication management of early pregnancy loss, finding it a viable alternative to in-person follow-up with similar outcomes. The study highlights that telemedicine follow-up can improve patient autonomy and access to care.
Conditions Addressed: Early pregnancy loss, telemedicine
12. Premature ovarian insufficiency: new data and updated guidance
Research Institution: ESHRE, ASRM, IMS, CRE WHiRL
Link: https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/39/Supplement_1/deae108.122/7703595
This updated guideline covers 40 clinical questions on the diagnosis, sequelae, and treatment options for premature ovarian insufficiency, emphasizing the need for clinical guidance and future research. It provides new insights into the role of AMH in diagnosis and highlights the importance of personalized hormone treatment.
Conditions Addressed: Premature ovarian insufficiency
13. A Month in Review: Longitudinal Dynamics between Daily PTSD Symptom Networks, Affect, and Drinking Behaviors in Female College Students
Research Institution: Stanford University, University of Washington
Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1388539/abstract
This study explores the short-term longitudinal stability and time-lagged predictive dynamics of PTSD symptoms, affect, and drinking behavior among female college heavy episodic drinkers. The study found that PTSD symptoms and arousal levels are stable, but negative affect and alcohol-related behaviors fluctuate, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Conditions Addressed: PTSD, drinking behavior
14. Period poverty, reuse needs, and depressive symptoms among refugee menstruators in Jordan’s camps: a cross-sectional study
Research Institution: University of Jordan, Jordan University of Science and Technology
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03193-x
This study highlights the association between period poverty and depressive symptoms among refugee menstruators in Jordan, emphasizing the need for better menstrual hygiene management. The study suggests that inadequate menstrual hygiene resources contribute to mental health issues, urging interventions to improve menstrual health.
Conditions Addressed: Period poverty, mental health
15. Development and validation of a nomogram model of depression and sleep disorders and the risk of disease progression in patients with breast cancer
Research Institution: The First People’s Hospital of Lianyungang
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03222-9
This study developed a model to predict the risk of disease progression in breast cancer patients based on depression and sleep disorder indices, aiming to facilitate precise interventions. The study found that patients with higher scores on depression and sleep disorder indices had a higher risk of disease progression.
Conditions Addressed: Depression, sleep disorders, breast cancer
16. Significant increased isolation of Escherichia coli in Iranian women with endometriosis: a case control – study
Research Institution: Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03229-2
This study found a significant association between the presence of Escherichia coli and endometriosis in Iranian women, suggesting a potential role of bacterial contamination in the disease’s progression. The study suggests that addressing bacterial infections could be a therapeutic strategy for endometriosis.
Conditions Addressed: Endometriosis, Escherichia coli
17. Primary care and abortion provider perspectives on mail-order medication abortion: a qualitative study
Research Institution: University of California, San Francisco, University of Pittsburgh, University of Rochester
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03202-z
This qualitative study assessed the perspectives of clinicians and clinic staff on mail-order pharmacy dispensing for medication abortion, highlighting benefits and logistical challenges. The study found that while mail-order services improve access, concerns about patient safety and follow-up persist.
Conditions Addressed: Medication abortion, mail-order pharmacy
18. Global, regional, and national burden of female cancers in women of child-bearing age, 1990–2021: analysis of data from the global burden of disease study 2021
Research Institution: Sichuan University, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00292-X/fulltext
This study analyzed the global burden of female cancers in women of child-bearing age from 1990 to 2021, identifying regional disparities and trends in incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The study emphasizes the need for targeted prevention and treatment strategies to address these disparities.
Conditions Addressed: Female cancers, global burden
19. A nurse-led model of care to improve access to contraception and abortion in rural general practice: co-design with consumers and providers
Research Institution: University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University
Link: https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.16299
This study describes the co-design process of a nurse-led model of care intended to improve access to early medication abortion and long-acting reversible contraception in rural Australian general practice. The study highlights the importance of collaboration with consumers and providers in developing effective healthcare models.
Conditions Addressed: Contraception, medication abortion, rural healthcare
20. Health Care Provider Willingness to Recommend Self-collected Tests for Human Papillomavirus: A Mixed Methods Examination of Associated Factors
Research Institution: Boston University, Moffitt Cancer Center, University of South Florida
Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S104938672400046X
This study examined factors influencing healthcare providers’ willingness to recommend self-collected HPV tests, highlighting perceived benefits and concerns, particularly sample adequacy and follow-up. The study found that while providers recognize the potential of self-collected tests to increase screening rates, concerns about test accuracy and patient compliance remain.
Conditions Addressed: HPV, self-collected tests, cervical cancer screening
21. Attitude and experience of obstetricians and gynecologists toward eating disorders assessment and management in Japan: a nationwide survey
Research Institution: Kyoto University, Keio University
Link: https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jog.16017
This nationwide survey investigated the attitudes and experiences of obstetricians and gynecologists in treating women with eating disorders in Japan, emphasizing the need for standardized guidelines. The study found that many clinicians feel inadequately trained to manage eating disorders, highlighting the need for better education and resources.
Conditions Addressed: Eating disorders, obstetrics and gynecology
22. Use of ultrasound imaging Omics in predicting molecular typing and assessing the risk of postoperative recurrence in breast cancer
Research Institution: Xinjiang Medical University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03231-8
This study assessed the efficacy of a multiparametric ultrasound imaging omics model in predicting molecular typing and postoperative recurrence risk in breast cancer, demonstrating strong predictive performance. The study found that ultrasound imaging omics can effectively predict molecular subtypes and recurrence risk, aiding in personalized treatment planning.
Conditions Addressed: Breast cancer, ultrasound imaging
23. Predicting risk of the subsequent early pregnancy loss in women with recurrent pregnancy loss based on preconception data
Research Institution: Lanzhou University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03206-9
This study developed a predictive model to assess the risk of subsequent early pregnancy loss in women with recurrent pregnancy loss using preconception data, providing valuable clinical implications. The study found that certain biomarkers and clinical parameters can predict the likelihood of another pregnancy loss, enabling targeted interventions.
Conditions Addressed: Recurrent pregnancy loss, early pregnancy loss
24. The mechanism and therapeutic potential of lncRNA MIR497HG/miR-16-5p axis in breast cancer
Research Institution: Central South University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03219-1
This study investigated the role of the MIR497HG/miR-16-5p axis in breast cancer, showing its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for the disease. The study suggests that targeting this axis could inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, offering new avenues for treatment.
Conditions Addressed: Breast cancer, lncRNA
25. Modulatory Effects of Vitamin D: A Possible Approach to Mitigate Air Pollution Related Pregnancy Complications
Research Institution: University of California, Berkeley
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03218-2
This study explores the role of vitamin D in mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution on pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that vitamin D supplementation could reduce the risk of complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. The study highlights the importance of addressing environmental health risks through nutritional interventions.
Conditions Addressed: Air pollution, pregnancy complications, vitamin D
26. Relevance of Infertility, Epigenetics, Nutrient, and Bioactive Components: A Review of the Literature
Research Institution: University of Auckland
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03220-8
This review discusses the role of nutrients and bioactive components in epigenetic regulation and their implications for infertility treatment. The study highlights how dietary components can influence gene expression related to reproductive health, offering insights into potential therapeutic strategies.
Conditions Addressed: Infertility, epigenetics, nutrition
27. The Value IRS-1 rs1801278G > A Polymorphism Testing in Evaluating Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case-control Study
Research Institution: Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03221-7
This study evaluates the association between IRS-1 rs1801278G > A polymorphism and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), suggesting that this genetic marker could be useful in assessing the risk and management of PCOS in infertile women. The study found that the polymorphism is significantly associated with PCOS, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic tool.
Conditions Addressed: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, genetic testing
28. A Comparison of Self-esteem, Body Image, and Depression in Hysterectomized and Non-Hysterectomized Iranian Women: A Comparative Cross-sectional Study
Research Institution: Iran University of Medical Sciences
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03211-x
This study compared self-esteem, body image, and depression levels between hysterectomized and non-hysterectomized women, finding that hysterectomy can negatively impact body image and self-esteem, leading to higher depression rates. The study underscores the importance of psychological support for women undergoing hysterectomy.
Conditions Addressed: Hysterectomy, self-esteem, depression
29. Comparing the Effect of Vagiheal Gel and Estromarin Cream on Atrophic Vaginitis in Postmenopausal Women-A Randomized Clinical Trial
Research Institution: Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03215-3
This randomized clinical trial compared the effectiveness of Vagiheal gel and Estromarin cream in treating atrophic vaginitis in postmenopausal women, finding that both treatments significantly improved symptoms, but Vagiheal gel had a better safety profile. The study suggests that Vagiheal gel could be a preferable option for managing atrophic vaginitis.
Conditions Addressed: Atrophic vaginitis, postmenopausal women, treatment comparison
30. The Clinical Effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Enhancing Recovery after Cesarean Section: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Research Institution: University of Sheffield
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03214-2
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in enhancing recovery after cesarean section, finding that TENS can significantly reduce pain and improve functional recovery. The study recommends TENS as a complementary therapy for postoperative pain management.
Conditions Addressed: Cesarean section, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, postoperative recovery
31. Risk Factors Associated with Cervical Cancer: A Matched Case-control Study
Research Institution: University of Campinas
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03217-x
This matched case-control study identified risk factors associated with cervical cancer, including HPV infection, early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, smoking, and long-term use of oral contraceptives. The study highlights the importance of targeted prevention strategies, including HPV vaccination and regular screening.
Conditions Addressed: Cervical cancer, risk factors, case-control study
32. Psychometric Properties of the Antenatal Psychosocial Stress Scale in Turkish Pregnant Women
Research Institution: Hacettepe University
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03225-y
This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Antenatal Psychosocial Stress Scale (APSS) in Turkish pregnant women, confirming its reliability and validity as a tool for assessing psychosocial stress during pregnancy. The study suggests that APSS can be effectively used in clinical practice to identify pregnant women at risk of psychosocial stress.
Conditions Addressed: Psychosocial stress, pregnancy, psychometric evaluation
33. Uterine Cancer: A Nine-year Review from a Tertiary Hospital in Tamil Nadu
Research Institution: Madras Medical College
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03227-1
This nine-year retrospective review from a tertiary hospital in Tamil Nadu analyzed the incidence, treatment outcomes, and survival rates of uterine cancer patients. The study found that early-stage diagnosis and comprehensive treatment significantly improve survival rates, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early detection programs.
Conditions Addressed: Uterine cancer, treatment outcomes, survival rates
34. Sex Differences in the Blood Metabolome During Acute Response to Ischemic Stroke
Research Institution: University of Tasmania
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03224-x
This study investigated sex differences in the blood metabolome during the acute response to ischemic stroke, finding significant differences in metabolites related to energy metabolism and inflammation. The study suggests that these differences could inform sex-specific treatment strategies for ischemic stroke.
Conditions Addressed: Ischemic stroke, blood metabolome, sex differences
35. Women’s Preferences for a Culinary Medicine Intervention to Reduce Cardiometabolic Risk During the Menopausal Transition: A Formative Study Protocol
Research Institution: University of California, Davis
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03228-4
This study protocol outlines the design of a culinary medicine intervention aimed at reducing cardiometabolic risk during the menopausal transition, based on women’s preferences. The study emphasizes the importance of culturally tailored interventions that align with participants’ culinary practices and preferences.
Conditions Addressed: Cardiometabolic risk, menopausal transition, culinary medicine
36. Women’s health at work: a qualitative study on women’s health issues in relation to work participation. Experiences and perspectives from female teachers and managers in Norwegian high schools
Research Institution: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03223-w
This qualitative study explores the health issues faced by women in relation to work participation, focusing on female teachers and managers in Norwegian high schools. The study found that work-related stress, physical health problems, and work-life balance challenges significantly impact women’s health and job satisfaction.
Conditions Addressed: Women’s health, work participation, qualitative study
37. Patient-Provider Trust as a Key Component of Prenatal Screening for Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES): A Concept Analysis
Research Institution: University of Utah
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12905-024-03232-7
This concept analysis examines the role of patient-provider trust in prenatal screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACES), emphasizing its importance for effective screening and intervention. The study highlights strategies to build trust, such as effective communication, empathy, and cultural competence, to improve prenatal care outcomes.
Conditions Addressed: Prenatal screening, adverse childhood experiences, patient-provider trust
