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Introduction . Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted viral diseases and the most common cause of mucous membrane ulcerations in the genital area. The number of sexually transmitted infections caused by herpes virus (HSV), especially by HSV-1, is increasing. In the Polish population, there are no precise and current epidemiological data on herpes virus infections, especially in the anogenital area. A major problem concerns HSV infections in pregnancy, which are connected with the risk of in-utero and perinatal virus transmission. Herpes simplex virus infection in pregnancy threatens the life and health of an infant. Objective . To obtain information regarding the occurrence of herpes simplex in people of reproductive age as well as the assessment of knowledge on HSV infection and transmission, especially in pregnancy. Material and methods. Two hundred people (133 women and 67 men) aged 18–35 years, attending a dermatological clinic in the first half of 2014 with typical dermatological diseases, took part in the study. The subjects filled in the questionnaire including information on age, occurrence of erosions, scabs in the facial and genital area, diagnosis of oral and genital herpes virus infection, information given by the medical staff on the herpes infection, treatment with oral antivirus drugs, danger of herpes infection in pregnancy and risk of transmission of the HSV virus to fetuses and newborns. Results . Among the 200 people who took part in the study, 27% indicated the occurrence of herpes or recurring lesions in the form of vesicles and scabs on the border of skin and mucous membranes; in 1.5% of them genital herpes was diagnosed. Only 12% of investigated persons were treated with antiviral medicines. Sixty-eight percent of subjects stated that HSV is an infectious disease, 16% claimed that it is non-infectious, and a similar number did not know if it is an infectious disease or not. Only half of the studied group answered that it is dangerous for pregnant women and newborns, and 86% had never received sufficient information on herpes virus infection from medical staff. Conclusions . Our results confirm the lack of sufficient knowledge on HSV infection, especially in pregnancy, and the necessity of educating patients.

Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted viral diseases and the most common cause of mucosal erosions and ulcerations in the genital area. According to epidemiological data, the infection caused by genital herpes virus is common in developing countries. The number of sexually transmitted infections is increasing, and infections caused by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) in the genital area are becoming more common. In Poland there are no current epidemiological data on these infections. Genital herpes infection is dangerous for pregnant women, who can transmit it to infants. There is a significant risk of primary infection in pregnant women, transmitted by their seropositive partners. The early diagnosis and treatment are of utmost importance. The effective method of prevention and treatment is aciclovir, which in numerous studies was proven to be safe in pregnancy. In the article, the course of infection, treatment and prevention, especially in pregnant women and newborns, are discussed.

Copyright of Ginekologia i Perinatologia Praktyczna is the property of VM Medica-VM Group (Via Medica) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Paediatrics & Family Medicine / Pediatria i Medycyna Rodzinna is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Paediatrics & Family Medicine / Pediatria i Medycyna Rodzinna is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Anaesthesiology & Rescue Medicine / Anestezjologia i Ratownictwo is the property of Akademia Medycyny Publishing House and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Paediatrics & Family Medicine / Pediatria i Medycyna Rodzinna is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ginekologia i Perinatologia Praktyczna is the property of VM Medica-VM Group (Via Medica) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Anaesthesiology & Rescue Medicine / Anestezjologia i Ratownictwo is the property of Akademia Medycyny Publishing House and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Genetic, endocrine and immunological disorders, anatomical defects in the reproductive tract, certain chronic diseases, toxic substances, or advanced age of the mother are most cited among the main causes of pregnancy loss at various stages. However, the cause of miscarriage or preterm labor in some cases remains unclear. Determination of the etiology about these clinical conditions may reduce the rate of reproductive failure. Similarly, the etiology of other obstetric disorders, such as preeclampsia or postpartum hemorrhage, has not been fully explained. One of the postulated and still under-researched causes of these disorders may be dysbiosis within the reproductive tract. A disturbed microbial balance is not always associated with the presence of an acute infection with clear clinical symptoms. Dysbiosis in conjunction with other pathophysiological factors may increase the risk of the mentioned clinical conditions. The aim of this paper is to show the information indicating the existence of a correlation between dysbiosis and an increase in the risk of obstetric disorders. Further analysis is also required to clarify the mechanism of the effect of dysbiosis on the disruption of metabolic and biochemical processes within the reproductive system during pregnancy.

Copyright of Current Neurology / Aktualno?ci Neurologiczne is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Current Neurology / Aktualno?ci Neurologiczne is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Paediatrics & Family Medicine / Pediatria i Medycyna Rodzinna is the property of Medical Communications Sp. z o.o. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this paper was to evaluate of the health awareness of primigravidas during pregnancy preparation. The research tool was anonymous author's questionnaire consisting of 25 questions. The group tested was diverse in respect of age. The average age was 27. The women planned their pregnancy in appropriate age. They took care of their health before pregnancy, they followed a proper diet, were physically active and underwent diagnostic examination and tests.

Pregnancy is a major life change for many women. The related biological changes, especially complications in its course and in the course of delivery, carry a risk of developing a variety of psychological problems and mental disorders. However, their treatment is challenging due to the teratogenic effects of most psychoactive drugs and specific requirements for entering different psychotherapeutic programs. Mental disorders during pregnancy are undoubtedly an important issue for both gynecology and psychiatry. There is still a discussion considering the question whether psychotherapy during pregnancy is safe, although no scientifically valid data contradicting the safety of psychotherapy during pregnancy has been published so far. Together with psychotherapy - as a treatment of choice - clinicians approve some other relatively safe treatment methods for psychiatric disorders in pregnant women. Light therapy, limited pharmacotherapy, ECT are included. The goal of this paper is to review current opinions of clinicians and researches concerning possibilities, indications and outcome of psychological treatments as a way to help pregnant women who suffer from different psychiatric conditions, and also because this subject is not yet present in Polish psychiatric journals.

Copyright of Advances in Hygiene & Experimental Medicine / Postepy Higieny i Medycyny Doswiadczalnej is the property of Sciendo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction and purpose. Preserving fertility is crucial for cancer patients, aligning with advancements in oncology. As survival rates improve, addressing treatment-related late effects gains importance. Many young patients, aware of therapy toxicity, consider future conception chances, impacting treatment decisions. With a trend toward delayed childbirth and a growing population facing unplanned family planning disruptions, the demand for fertility preservation is expected to rise. This paper provides a brief review of available methods for preserving fertility in cancer patients. State of knowledge. Freezing semen in liquid nitrogen vapor is a standard method for preserving reproductive potential in male cancer patients. Shielding during total-body radiation limits testicular volume reduction, indicating less damage to the germinal epithelium. Hormone suppression treatments are not protective in male cancer patients. Oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are considered secure methods before anticancer treatments, with oocyte cryopreservation being preferred for post-pubertal women. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation remains an alternative method without preliminary treatment, suitable when time is insufficient for ovarian stimulation. Ovarian transposition beyond the intended radiation area, performed laparoscopically, can retain ovarian function. GnRH agonist administration before and during chemotherapy aims to minimize the likelihood of premature ovarian insufficiency. Summary. Advancements in fertility preservation for cancer patients, ranging from traditional cryopreservation to innovative methods like ovarian tissue preservation, highlight a commitment to empowering individuals facing cancer diagnoses. Ongoing research expands possibilities, ensuring a diverse range of strategies that offer tangible and hopeful prospects at the intersection of cancer and reproductive health.

Several studies revealed a close functional relations between the immune, nervous and endocrine systems which communicate between each other using the common mediators and their receptors. The immune cells not only receive signals from the endocrine system but also produce numerous hormones, usually after stimulation with antigens including parasites antigens. On the other hand, parasites are able to exploit hormonal microenvironment within the host to establish an infection and avoid the eradication by evolving receptors for host hormones. Some parasites produce also steroid hormones and alter host hormones levels. Increasing numbers of prophylaxis and therapy procedures involve hormones as main or supplementary components (e.g., estrogens, dexamethasone or insulin). The aim of this paper is to present new literature data concerning the immunomodulatory effect of selected hormones in infections caused by two parasitic apicomplexans: Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium spp. In addition to sex- and pregnancy- associated hormones which determine dimorphic immune responses in females versus males, the action of other hormones of great physiological importance will also be discussed.

Based on published clinical studies, this paper reviews the influence of metabolic changes during pregnancy on intrauterine fetal growth. Data are collected concerning the metabolic aspects of both normal pregnancies and those complicated by diabetes as well as hormonal changes having significant impact on metabolism during pregnancy. The issues of gestational insulin resistance and the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and amino acids are discussed. Factors influencing birth weight and intrauterine fetal growth, including metabolic and hormonal mechanisms and the function of the placental barrier, are also considered.

The object of this paper is to highlight the importance of enzymatic diagnostics in obstetrics and gynecology. Enzymatic diagnostics through the assessment of oxytocinase allows to monitor the pregnancy and predict the delivery. Oxytocinase and its isoenzymes reflect the present state of the mother, the fetus and the placenta. The constant increase of oxytocinase in maternal blood up to the time of delivery and its appropriate level indicates the proper development of pregnancy. Low lewel and above all decrease in level instead of the normal constant increase precedes by several weeks clinical symptoms of abortions and preterm deliveries. Maternal blood levels of cystine-amino-peptidases (CAP1 and CAP2) show high correlation with the fetal and placental mass as well as fetal maturity. The levels of oxytocinase allow to objectivize the duration of pregnancy and to reduce induced and operative deliveries.

Research in developing methods for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis has focused on the following: the isolation of fetal cells from the cervix, from the blood of pregnant women and the isolation of the fetal DNA. In the paper authors review the potential clinical diagnostic applications of fetal cells and fetal DNA analysis in maternal plasma or serum and fetal cells in cervical mucus for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis and screening of fetal aneuploidy, gene mutations, preeclampsia and preterm labor.

Contemporary opinions concerning the role of placenta as well as systemic immunological response in normal pregnancy were presented in the paper. Special attention was paid to the importance of HLA-G antigens, changes of peripheral blood cellular immunological response and blocking antibodies.

Contemporary opinions concerning the function of decidual NK cells, T and B lymphocytes as well as macrophages and neutrophils in normal pregnancy were presented in the paper. Maintenance of proper Th1/Th2 balance concerning cytokines produced by trophoblast, decidua and decidual infiltrating immunological cells was also precisely described.

The paper summarizes the recommendations of the Hereditary Angioedema Section of the Polish Society of Allergology regarding the management of this disease in a view on up-to-date data. Its classification, pathomechanism, clinical picture and diagnosis were discussed. The principles of treatment and prevention of edema attacks and disease monitoring were presented. Characteristic features related to the course and management during pregnancy and in the pediatric group of patients were mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlabelled: The influence of the sounds of music on adults' organisms is well investigated. It is widely known that low rhythm music can diminish psychophysical tension acting as a relaxing and anxiolytic agent, while fast rhythm of the music may have just opposite action-excitement. Despite the big number of publications about the influence of the sounds on human organism only very few papers about fetal reactions on music have been reported. A prospective study of 38 patients with mature pregnancies was made to evaluate the changes in the chosen cardiotocographic (CTG) parameters while listening to the different kinds of the music. Only physiological pregnancies were qualified. In the procedure all the patients were performed a Non Stress Test, than continuing CTG observation were exposed to three kinds of music: low (relaxation), medium (activation), fast rhythm (excitation). Uterine contractility, fetal heart rate (FHR), fetal movements (FM), incidence of accelerations and decelerations, oscillation mid-value were noted. A proportional positive correlation between the uterine contractility, fetal movements and the increase of the rhythm of the music was observed. No influence of the music on fetal heart rate and oscillation mid value was observed. An increased incidence of accelerations while playing the music was reported comparing to the control (i.e. pregnant patients not exposed to the music). No decelerations were observed., Conclusions: 1. Music has a significant impact on fetal behaviour. 2. Various sounds of music have influence on distinct behaviour of fetus. 3. Increasing rhythm of music intensifies uterine contractility and fetal movements.

The paper focuses on the procreation plans of the women having their first and next babies, their knowledge about the conception regulation methods and their attitudes towards natural family planning methods and contraception.

Introduction and purpose: Inositol exists in the form of nine isomers, two of which are dominant - myo-inositol (MI) and D-chiro-inositol (DCI). It is a naturally occuring sugar involved in many biological pathways. Due to its insulin-sensitizing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, inositol has been suggested as a novel treatment agent in prevention and treatment of reproductive disorders. The paper presents currently available data regarding the impact of oral supplementation of inositol for fertility of women and men, reproductive outcomes among subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and its effectiveness on preventing and treating gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Material and methods of research: The search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholarship databases available to November 2023. Results: Although the evidence is still insufficient, it is suggested that inositol may be beneficial for subfertile women, also those undergoing assisted reproductive techniques and in vitro fertilization. Moreover inositol can positively influence sperm quality. Myoinositol supplementation was also effective and safe for pregnant women with GDM and their children. In these women lower HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment – Insulin Resistance) and reduction of fetal macrosomia were observed. Myoinositol also seems to be favorable for overweight or obese women in GDM prevention and treatment. Current findings indicate the positive impact for hormonal changes and restoration in menstrual cyclicity in women with PCOS, improving reproductive disorders in these patients. Conclusions: Overall, although findings are encouraging, further trials for this promising intervention are still required to support oral supplementation of inositol.

Low birth weight is still important health problem in many countries. Children's low birth weight increases mortality, injures central nervous system, somatic, interferes with intellectual and emotional development. Low birth weight is frequently occurring in Poland--between 7-9% of live births. There are many risk factors, among them behavioural and environmental. In Poland an attention was put on chemical and physical environmental factors. Behavioural factors (stress) are disregarded. In the present paper it was decided to check the relationship between stress during pregnancy (estimated by pregnant), child birth weight and frequency of low birth weight. The research was carried out by use of a questionnaire using the "case-control study". In the research were involved 450 mothers of new-born children (the group of cases: untimely, premature delivery or child birth weight below 2500 g) and 450 mothers of new-born children (control group-physiologically delivered). Mothers were asked about their relations to the pregnancy; professional and personal stress during pregnancy was estimated. The results were analysed by counting risk ratio coefficient (RR) and correlation coefficient. The research showed, that there is no relation between acceptation of pregnancy, stress and frequency of low birth weight or the average child birth weight. The researches didn't prove unfavourable influence of stress reaction caused by professional and personal stressors on intrauterine foetus development.

The computer-aided enzymatic and ultrasonographic method of pregnancy monitoring takes into account ultrasound measurements of fetal parameters (BPD, HC, AC, FL) and oxytocinase (CAP1) and isooxytocinase (CAP2) levels in maternal blood. In this paper we decided to verify which one of this values have the major influence on fetal maturity prediction. 385 pregnancies, after sterility treatment, were studied where ultrasound measurements and enzymes levels were estimated simultaneously as well as current fetal maturity were established using computer-aided method by M. Klimek. There are high sample correlations between current fetal maturity and the number of remaining days to labor (r = -0.8) as well as ultrasound measurements (BPD r = 0.87, HC r = 0.89, AC r = 0.90, FL r = 0.81). Fetal maturity correlations with enzymatic values (CAP1, CAP2) were smaller 0.55, 0.52 respectively. The partial correlation pictures this relations much stronger -0.29, 0.28, 0.22, 0.30, 0.46, -0.06, 0.13 respectively.

The paper describes the up-to-date knowledge on the essential trace element, selenium, in human nutrition, its concentration in blood during pregnancy and in milk during lactation. Changes in selenium concentration in maternal milk during various stages of lactation and selenium concentration in infant blood as well as the selenium intake by breast- and formula-fed infants is discussed.

The aim of this paper was the analysis of the clinical usefulness of the nomogram presented by Hansmann for the fetal weight prediction in normal, single fetus pregnancies of Wrocław population. The authors proved, that in the group of 36 pregnant women the least difference between fetal weight evaluated before birth and the birth weight of newborn was noted in the group of babies with birth weight 2000-4000 g. In the group with birth weight below 2000 g and over 4000 g respectively, the twice to octuple evaluation error is expected.

The aim of the paper was an attempt to perform own evaluation of the changes which in the woman's circulatory system are provoked by pregnancy, being complicated by gestation-induced arterial hypertension (gestosis H) as compared with changes occurring in physiological pregnancy. The model of the study was provided by monodimensional echography. The study covered 51 normal non-pregnant women, 43 normal pregnant women and 45 pregnant ones with arterial hypertension induced by the pregnancy (gestosis EPH). The evaluated anatomical and functional parameters permitted the estimation of the circulatory system and the direction of hemodynamic changes in the studied groups. In the group of women with physiological pregnancy I obtained the confirmation of hitherto existing viewpoints, it means, I disclosed features of the hyperkinetic circulation with the increase of the cardiac output, and the drop in peripheral resistance as well as a slight, compensatory hypertrophy of the left ventricular muscle. In women with gestosis. I revealed higher intensity with regard to the features of hyperkinetic circulation, apparent hypertrophy of the muscle of the left ventricle, its good contractility, and indirect symptoms that may evidence a defect in diastolic tendency of the left ventricle. The increment in the severity of gestosis was accompanied by a further mass increase of the left ventricular muscle.

Introduction and purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the health, life and quality of life of many people around the world. It caused huge changes in the daily functioning of entire societies. Pregnant women are a unique group of people who are particularly at risk. They are accompanied by fear for their health, but also fear of the impact of the disease on their offspring. The pandemic has also caused new challenges for mothers-to-be that have not occurred so far. In this paper, we would like to present the current state of knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the risk of developing pre-eclampsia. State of knowledge: We analyzed studies showing the impact of COVID-19 infection on the health of pregnant women, especially on the risk of developing pre-eclampsia. Data from many studies are contradictory. Some studies do not indicate a significant impact of coronavirus infection on the development of pre-eclampsia. Some of them confirm a higher incidence of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women with confirmed COVID-19 infection. Conclusions: Despite the experience gained, there are still many unknowns. Thanks to research, we have more and more knowledge about the course of COVID-19 in pregnant women and its impact on their lives. Many observations are still needed to formulate clear conclusions about the impact of COVID-19 on the risk of developing pre-eclampsia. It is also necessary to continue to educate women, encourage compliance with the recommendations of doctors and the World Health Organization to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Copyright of Polish Nursing / Pielegniarstwo Polskie is the property of Poznan University of Medical Sciences Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Erythema nodosum is the most common form of panniculitis in the paediatric population. It is manifested by painful tumours in shades of red within the subcutaneous tissue, most often within the lower legs. Mild, non-specific systemic symptoms may occur. The course of erythema nodosum is associated primarily with local pain, sometimes implying motor disorders. Erythema nodosum may be primary or secondary as a manifestation of a systemic disease, medication or pregnancy. Although the course is often self-limiting, detecting erythema nodosum requires a systematised diagnosis of potential causative diseases. A detailed medical history and physical examination are vital in this process. Treatment of erythema nodosum most often consists of administering analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Proper causal treatment of the primary disease is more important. The paper presents a case of a teenage girl with an intense course of erythema nodosum, in whom two probable causes of its occurrence were found.

Cytomegalovirus is one of the most widespread DNA viruses, with 90% of women of childbearing age in Poland infected with it. Infection poses a risk to the mother as well as the fetus, as the virus can cross the placenta and damage the fetus. The purpose of this paper is to review scientific publications from 2017-2022, which describe the course of cytomegalovirus infection in pregnant women, the risks to the mother and fetus associated with the infection, methods of diagnosing the infection in the pregnant woman and the fetus, as well as treatment of cytomegalovirus infection and directions for vaccine research. The most common complications of congenital cytomegalovirus infection include hearing loss, mental developmental delays and miscarriage. The infection can be detected in the pregnant woman by immunological testing, while polymerase chain reaction is used in the fetus and newborn. Early detection of infection in a pregnant woman allows the implementation of treatment which includes ganciclovir, valganciclovir, acyclovir and valacyclovir. A vaccine against cytomegalovirus has not been developed. Particularly important in the prevention of infection is to conduct educational activities regarding the routes of transmission of the virus and the consequences of congenital infection for the fetus. Cytomegalovirus infections among pregnant women. It is important to monitor fetal development and possibly diagnose for congenital CMV infection in case of abnormalities, and the best diagnostic method is polymerase chain reaction testing. For the treatment of congenital CMV infection, acyclovir and valacyclovir are preferred, and therapy should be implemented for specific indications. Attention should be paid to educating women about infections caused by cytomegalovirus.

Pregnancy is a major life change for many women. The related biological changes, especially complications in its course and in the course of delivery, carry a risk of developing a variety of psychological problems and mental disorders. However, their treatment is challenging due to the teratogenic effects of most psychoactive drugs and specific requirements for entering different psychotherapeutic programs. Mental disorders during pregnancy are undoubtedly an important issue for both gynecology and psychiatry. There is still a discussion considering the question whether psychotherapy during pregnancy is safe, although no scientifically valid data contradicting the safety of psychotherapy during pregnancy has been published so far. Together with psychotherapy - as a treatment of choice - clinicians approve some other relatively safe treatment methods for psychiatric disorders in pregnant women. Light therapy, limited pharmacotherapy, ECT are included. The goal of this paper is to review current opinions of clinicians and researches concerning possibilities, indications and outcome of psychological treatments as a way to help pregnant women who suffer from different psychiatric conditions, and also because this subject is not yet present in Polish psychiatric journals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with the increasing number of reported cases, multiple sclerosis, one of the main causes of disability among young adults, is nowadays an increasingly common health problem. Considering the fact that it occurs mainly between 20 and 40 years and affects women more often, the question of the impact of the disease on pregnancy becomes obvious. In view of the wide selection of drugs for various purposes and often highly individualized forms of therapy, it seems also important to determine the safety profile of these agents in relation to the health of the pregnant woman and the fetus. All of this is a significant challenge for neurologists and obstetricians and is the subject of many research and studies. The awareness of society, especially women, in the face of the growing problem seems to be equally important. This paper summarizes the current state of knowledge on these issues.

Preeklamsja, która dotyczy 2-5% ciężarnych, jest jedną z głównych przyczyn matczynej i perinatologicznej zacho-rowalności i śmiertelności. Współcześnie uznawaną teorią dotyczącą patogenezy stanu przedrzucawkowego jest hi-poteza zaburzeń w krążeniu matczyno-płodowym. W celu prognozowania wystąpienia stanu przedrzucawkowego po-szukuje się nieinwazyjnych metod diagnostycznych mogą-cych określić zwiększone ryzyko zachorowania. Badania dotyczące identyfikacji wczesnych markerów biochemicz-nych, opracowania algorytmu postępowania lub testu skri-ningowego trwają od wielu lat. Niniejsza praca przedsta-wia aktualny przegląd piśmiennictwa dotyczący osiągnięć w diagnostyce stanu przedrzucawkowego w ciąży. Preeclampsia, which affects 2-5% of pregnancies, is one of major causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Nowadays the leading hypothesis of pathogenesis of preeclampsia is the theory of dysfunction in maternal-fetal circulation. The aim of early identification of preeclampsia is to find non-invasive diagnostic methods that can determine the higher risk of morbidity rate. Research on early identification of biochemical markers, algorithm development or screening test is underway for many years. This paper presents a review of the literature on current developments in diagnostics ofpreeclampsia in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii protozoan. Toxoplasmosis is particularly dangerous for the foetus and any infection, regardless of the period of pregnancy, may cause disorders in the extra-fetal life. The paper assesses the knowledge of women about toxoplasmosis infection, basic definitions and prophylactic measures. Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the level of knowledge of women about Toxoplasma gondii infection, as well as the basic preventive actions. Material and method: The study was conducted in the period from February to June 2016 by means of a diagnostic survey. 63 women aged 20 and over took part in the survey. The tool used in the study was a questionnaire. The most numerous group were the respondents aged 20-29 years and the least aged 40-49 years. The research results were developed in Microsoft Excel and Statistica 13.1. Results: The analysis of the collected data shows that women with higher and secondary education have the greatest knowledge of both defining and basic preventive measures. Conclusions: The level of women's knowledge about Toxoplasma gondii infections varies according to the education of the respondents. The knowledge about basic preventive measures that can significantly reduce the serious consequences of Toxoplasma gondii infections for the developing fetus should be disseminated.

Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder in pregnant women. Epileptic seizures can be dangerous both for the mother and the foetus. Most pregnant women with epilepsy must use antiepileptic drugs. The aim of the treatment is to gain optimal seizure control while minimising the risk to the foetus (a potential teratogenic effect of antiepileptic drugs). The physiological changes in the pregnant woman’s body may affect the effectiveness of these agents. As pregnancy progresses, their serum concentrations decrease due to the increase in extracellular fluid volume, impaired intestinal absorption, increased renal clearance and enhanced hepatic metabolism. This is true for most antiepileptics, both old and new. Particularly significant fluctuations of serum concentrations are observed for new antiepileptics. The level of lamotrigine and levetiracetam decreases in the third trimester of pregnancy by even 50%, and the level of oxcarbazepine falls by 30–40%. The dosage of antiepileptic drugs should depend primarily on the clinical picture, and it is helpful to determine their serum levels during pregnancy. It is recommended to test the concentration of antiepileptic drugs before pregnancy, at the beginning of each trimester, during the last month of pregnancy and during the eighth week after delivery. The paper presents two cases of pregnant women who experienced a decrease in the level of new-generation antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. The knowledge about the levels of these drugs was a valuable guide for optimising treatment.

Epilepsy is one of the most frequent diseases of the central nervous system and affects about 50 million people in the world. It is a heterogeneous disease entity associated with various clinical manifestations and coexisting symptoms (such as neurodevelopmental disorders), resulting in different response to medication and different prognosis. Clinical evidence points to the existence of epilepsy and epilepsy syndromes dependent on sex. Female and male sex hormones affect the brain convulsion threshold. Catamenial epilepsy is a well-known example here, in which the neurohormonal mechanisms dependent on the menstrual cycle affect the occurrence of convulsions. Progesterone is an anticonvulsant hormone, while oestrogens can be both pro- and anticonvulsant, depending on the physiological state. Unlike in the case of progesterone, the influence of the potential convulsion threshold modulation of testosterone is complex. In animal models, but also in clinical trials, testosterone intensifies the occurrence of convulsions through its metabolism to oestrogens. The paper presents the effects of antiepileptic drugs on the offspring of mothers with epilepsy (congenital malformations, lower birth weight, and neurodevelopmental disorders). Aggregate data indicate the highest teratogenicity of the exposure to valproic acid and other antiepileptics used in polytherapy. Other factors may also influence foetal development: severity of epilepsy itself, the type of seizures, mother’s intelligence quotient and socioeconomic status as well as the exposure to toxic agents (including alcohol and other stimulants). The optimal selection of antiepileptic drugs should be sought even before the planned pregnancy in the care of women at childbearing age suffering from epilepsy.

Psoriasis is one of the most common skin disease, affecting 1.5-3% population, with chronic course and complex clinical picture. It is characterized by abnormal epidermis proliferation, immunological disturbances with predominance of Th1 response activity and complex pathogenesis. Among many factors inducing the disease development hormonal disorders are mentioned. Half of all patients with psoriasis are females diagnosed mostly within childbearing period of their life. It is stated that pregnancy, puerperium, menstruation and menopause modulate a natural course of psoriasis. Based on current literature search, we evaluated in this paper the role of sex hormones in pathogenesis of this dermatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eating disorders represent a serious and complex health and social problem which is encountered by many medical professionals in their practice, including by family doctors. An increasing number of individuals are affected by these disorders. The media, which promote slim figure as fashionable or perfect, are a contributing factor. Pregnant women are a group which is especially vulnerable to eating disorders. Their bodies are subject to dynamic changes; as a result, these are often far from the widely promoted ideal. Malnutrition in women planning to conceive a child and in pregnant women is a risk factor for abnormal course of pregnancy and poor health status of the newborn child. Therefore, it is important for women who are planning pregnancy to change their lifestyle and follow the rules of appropriate, balanced diet. The aim of the paper was to review the available publications on pregorexia, i.e. an eating disorder which involves self-starvation and/or inducing vomiting during pregnancy. The article presents the current recommendations concerning body mass of a woman during pregnancy and the consequences of pregorexia for the mother and the unborn child as well as discussing the role of medical professionals regarding this non-specific eating disorder. Based on the available sources it may be concluded that there is a need for wider education concerning diet and physical activity provided by medical professionals to higher-risk groups. Early intervention by an interdisciplinary therapeutic team contributes to better treatment results with appropriate health education being of key importance.

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Gdańska Agnieszka, Ślężyńska Marzena, Wiśniewska Danuta. Czynniki warunkujące aktywność fizyczną oraz jej oddziaływanie w okresie ciąży = Factors affecting the physical activity and its effect during pregnancy. Journal of Education, Health and Sport. 2016;6(9):699-711. eISSN 2391-8306. DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.159210 http://ojs.ukw.edu.pl/index.php/johs/article/view/3893 https://pbn.nauka.gov.pl/sedno-webapp/works/750420 The journal has had 7 points in Ministry of Science and Higher Education parametric evaluation. Part B item 755 (23.12.2015). 755 Journal of Education, Health and Sport eISSN 2391-8306 7 © The Author (s) 2016; This article is published with open access at Licensee Open Journal Systems of Kazimierz Wielki University in Bydgoszcz, Poland Open Access. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License which permits any noncommercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited. This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits unrestricted, non commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited. This is an open access article licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits unrestricted, non commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interests regarding the publication of this paper. Received: 02.09.2016. Revised 24.09.2016. Accepted: 24.09.2016. Czynniki warunkujące aktywność fizyczną oraz jej oddziaływanie w okresie ciąży Factors affecting the physical activity and its effect during pregnancy Agnieszka Gdańska Akademia Wychowania Fizycznego im. Jerzego Kukuczki w Katowicach Katedra Nauk Fizjologiczno-Medycznych, Zakład Biochemii Marzena Ślężyńska Akademia Wychowania Fizycznego im. Jerzego Kukuczki w Katowicach Zakład Rekreacji Fizycznej, Katedra Rekreacji Danuta Wiśniewska Akademia Wychowania Fizycznego im. Jerzego Kukuczki w Katowicach Katedra Teorii i Metodyki Wychowania Fizycznego, Zakład Korekcji Wad Postawy Streszczenie Aktywność fizyczna w czasie trwania ciąży korzystnie wpływa na poprawę wydolności układu krążenia, funkcje układu mięśniowo-szkieletowego, układu trawiennego oraz procesów metabolicznych [8]. Ćwiczenia fizyczne mogą powodować krótko i długotrwałe korzyści dla matki i rozwijającego się płodu. Dlatego aktualne trendy w opiece nad kobietami ciężarnymi polegają na propagowaniu aktywności fizycznej w różnym stopniu przez cały okres ciąży [10]. Cel badań. Celem badań była analiza czynników, które warunkowały na ograniczenie, rozpoczęcie lub kontynuowanie wysiłku fizycznego w czasie ciąży. Jednocześnie porównywano oddziaływanie aktywności fizycznej na przebieg ciąży, porodu oraz ogólny stan zdrowia i samopoczucia. Materiał i metody badań. Badaniami objętych zostało 50 kobiet w wieku 15-55 lat mieszkających w powiecie Wodzisław Śląski. W badaniach wykorzystano autorski kwestionariusz. Wszystkie kobiety uczestniczące w badaniach były matkami i przebyły poród. Wyniki badań. Wśród 50 ankietowanych dominowały kobiety w przedziale wieku 20-29 lat. Większość badanych (68%) deklarowała, że wykonywały ćwiczenia fizyczne w czasie ciąży, ale zaledwie 16 kobiet (32%) oświadczyło, że ciąża wyzwoliła motywację do aktywności fizycznej. Co trzecia kobieta (32%) deklarowała, że niezależnie od trymestru na aktywność fizyczną w trakcie ciąży przeznaczała tygodniowo 1-2 godz. Podobnie niemal co trzecia respondentka (30%) wyrażała opinię o korzystnym oddziaływaniu ruchu w trakcie ciąży na poród. Wnioski. Aktywność fizyczna w czasie ciąży pozwalała zachować prawidłową masę ciała, poprawiała nastrój psychiczny oraz skuteczne przeciwdziałała dolegliwościom związanym z ciążą. W związku z powyższym powinno się propagować aktywność fizyczną w okresie ciąży, szczególnie jeżeli nie ma przeciwwskazań lekarskich. Słowa kluczowe: aktywność fizyczna, ciąża, rekreacja, poród, ból, samopoczucie Abstract Physical activity during pregnancy is useful for improving cardiovascular efficiency, musculoskeletal system, digestive system and metabolic processes [8]. Exercise can bring short and long-term benefits for women and the developing fetus, therefore, the current trends in the care of pregnant women seek to promote physical activity throughout pregnancy [10]. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to analyze the factors that affect the limitation, of exercise during pregnancy. Comparing the impact of physical activity on pregnancy, childbirth, and overall health and well-being. Material and methods The study included 50 women age 15-55 years living in the district Wodzislaw Slaski. The study has been carried out with the use of the authorial questionnaire-survey. All women participating in the study were mothers and gone through childbirth. Results Among the 50 surveyed dominated women between 20-29. The majority of respondents (68%) declared that they performed physical exercise during pregnancy, but only 32% women stated that the pregnancy triggered motivation for physical activity. Every third woman (32%) declared that regardless of trimester they were exercise during pregnancy and devoted to that activity 1-2 hours per week. 30% of respondents declared positive impact of physical activity during pregnancy to childbirth. Conclusions Physical activity during pregnancy allow to maintain normal weight, improved mood, mental and effectively counteract the discomfort associated with pregnancy. Therefore physical activity should be more popularized during pregnancy especially if there is no medical contraindications. Keywords: physical activity, pregnancy, recreation, childbirth, pain, mood