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We aimed to determine whether intraovarian injection of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) improves response to ovarian stimulation and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome in women with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). Women (N=311; age 24-40) diagnosed with POI based on ESHRE criteria underwent intraovarian PRP injection. Markers of ovarian reserve, and IVF outcome parameters were followed. PRP treatment resulted in increased antral follicle count (AFC) and serum antimullerian hormone (AMH), while serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) did not change significantly. After PRP injection, 23 women (7.4%) conceived spontaneously, 201 (64.8%) developed antral follicle(s) and attempted IVF, and 87 (27.8%) had no antral follicles and therefore did not receive additional treatment. Among the 201 women who attempted IVF, 82 (26.4% of total) developed embryos; 25 of these women preferred to cryopreserve embryos for transfer at a later stage, while 57 underwent embryo transfer resulting in 13 pregnancies (22.8% per transfer, 4% of total). In total, of the 311 women treated with PRP, 25 (8.0%) achieved livebirth/sustained implantation (spontaneously or after IVF), while another 25 (8.0%) cryopreserved embryos. Our findings suggest that in women with POI, intraovarian injection of autologous PRP might be considered as an alternative experimental treatment option.

Purpose of review Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) refers to the absence of implantation after repeated transfer of good embryos into a normal uterus. This review discusses the diagnostic criteria and cause of RIF. Recent findings Regardless of the advancements in IVF practice, RIF is still a challenge that has to be solved. Exact definition of RIF is lacking today. For the initial evaluation, a rigorous algorithmic evaluation should be compromised with an individualized principle. Factors that might affect the number and quality of the oocyte and sperm cells should be investigated in order to obtain a good-quality embryo. Embryo assessment should be performed under ideal laboratory circumstances. The uterine environment should be carefully evaluated and the embryo should be transferred into the uterus at the most receptive time. Some of the newly introduced diseases and empirical treatment strategies, such as chronic endometritis, vaginal microbiota, immunologic profile and immunomodulator treatments, can be discussed with the couple under the light of adequate evidence-based information. Summary New diagnostic and treatment modalities are needed to be introduced, which would be safe, efficient and efficacious after well-designed randomized controlled trials.

Background/Aims: Data on the timing of catheter removal technique following embryo transfer (ET) are quite limited. We aimed to compare the reproductive outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)/ET cycles in which the transfer catheter was removed immediately with those in which the catheter was removed after a delay period and hereby to evaluate the impact that the time interval before removal of the catheter following embryo deposit may have on the fertility outcomes. Methods: A prospective randomized study was designed. ICSI/ET patients Results: Groups A and B consisted of 147 and 148 patients, respectively. Patient demographics and stimulation characteristics were comparable between the groups. Pregnancy rate was 32.2% (95 of 295) and clinical pregnancy rate was 28.8% (85 of 295), whereas ongoing pregnancy was 24.4% (72 of 295) and implantation rate was 29.6% (100 of 338). The comparison of reproductive outcomes revealed no significant differences in pregnancy (p = 0.933), clinical pregnancy (p = 0.673), ongoing pregnancy (p = 0.590), multiple pregnancy (p = 0.801), and implantation rates (p = 0.979) between the groups. Conclusion: No significant difference was observed in the reproductive outcomes between the groups; thus, there appears no requirement to delay the withdrawal of the catheter to improve the outcomes in ICSI cycles.

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease in which progesterone resistance and inflammation have been found to be major mechanisms responsible for its development and progression. When compared to eutopic endometrium, key molecules have been found to be differentially expressed, which contribute to these mechanisms. One pathway that is aberrant in endometriotic tissue when compared to eutopic endometrium is the retinoic acid signaling pathway. This review focuses on the role of the retinoid signaling pathway in endometriosis and summarizes evidence that supports the use of retinoid compounds for the stimulation of pro-apoptotic activity in these cells.

Objective To determine whether natural killer cell (NK) concentrations in the mid-secretory endometrial tissue of women with unexplained infertility differ from those in the mid-secretory endometrial tissue of fertile women. Methods This study was conducted with 22 patients with unexplained infertility caused by unsuccessful ovulation induced with gonadotrophins and 12 healthy fertile women, who formed a control group. Mid-secretory endometrial tissue samples were obtained with a Pipelle catheter, and the endometrial NK cell phenotypes were determined by flow cytometry. Results The median number of CD4+ cells in the endometrium was significantly lower in women with unexplained infertility compared with in the fertile controls (3.31 vs. 5.81; p=0.02). The CD4 + /CD8 + cell ratio in the unexplained-infertility group was significantly lower than that in the control group (0.42 vs. 0.76, p=0.01). The median number of CD103 + cells in the endometrium of the infertile group was significantly lower than that in the endometrium of the control group (4.40 vs. 6.73, p=0.02). The median number of CD16 + cells was significantly higher in infertile women than in control women (0.12 vs. 0.001, p=0.01). Conclusions Significant reductions in the numbers of CD4 + and CD103 + cells as well as in the CD4 + /CD8 + ratio but an increased number of CD16 + cells in the endometrium of infertile women suggest that disordered NK cell activity may be a contributor to the etiology of unexplained infertility.

The aim of this study is to investigate the association of perifollicular blood flow (PFBF) with follicular fluid EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentrations, endometrial vascularity, and IVF outcomes. Forty women with tubal factor infertility were included in a prospective cohort study. Each woman underwent IVF/ICSI procedure. Individual follicles of ≥16 mm (n = 156) were evaluated by power Doppler analysis and categorized as well-vascularized follicles (WVFs) or poorly vascularized follicles (PVFs). WVFs referred to those with perifollicular vascularity of 51–100 %. Each follicular fluid (FF) was individually aspirated and FF/serum EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, and FF IGF-1 levels were evaluated. Zones III–IV endometrial vascularity was classified as a well-vascularized endometrium (WVE). The presence of a WVE and mature oocytes, in addition to the embryo quality and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), were recorded for each follicle. The main outcome measures were FF serum EG-VEGF, inhibin-a, IGF-1 levels, and WVE and IVF outcome per PFBF. For WVFs, the level of FF EG-VEGF (p = 0.008), oocyte quality (p = 0.001), embryo quality (p = 0.002), a WVE (p = 0.001), and CPR (p = 0.04) increased significantly. The pregnant group was characterized by increased numbers of WVFs (p = 0.044), a WVE (p = 0.022), and increased levels of FF IGF-1 (p = 0.001) and serum EG-VEGF (p = 0.03). FF IGF-1 >50 ng/mL (AUC 0.72) had 75 % sensitivity and 64 % specificity for predicting CPR. WVFs yield high-quality oocytes and embryos, a WVE, increased FF EG-VEGF levels, and increased CPRs.

Aim The aim of this study was to review our exogenous cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) cases that were managed through transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS)-guided suction curettage either alone or with a concomitant additional therapeutic modality. The study was carried out over a 6-year period and we compared clinical outcomes, success rates and complication profiles between the two therapeutic approaches. Methods A total of 33 exogenous CSP patients who were managed by suction curettage were extracted from the medical records. The patients were analyzed according to the intervention applied in the two groups as: TAUS-guided suction curettage alone (Group 1); and additional therapeutic tools, such as systemic or intracavitary administration of methotrexate and intracavitary ethanol instillation, in combination with suction curettage (Group 2). Basic demographic and clinical characteristics of women experiencing hemorrhagic complications and those who did not after the treatment were also compared. Results There were no cases of uterine perforation, hysterectomy or unresponsiveness to treatment in our analyzed CSP cases. Four patients, two in each group, required blood transfusion. Our success rate in the overall patient population was 87.8% (29/33). Fourteen out of 16 patients who were treated with TAUS-guided suction curettage alone, and 15 out of 17 patients who received other interventional treatment modalities preceding suction curettage revealed successful resolution of the CSP without any complication (P = 0.948). Clinical and demographic characteristics of women who experienced any hemorrhagic complication did not significantly differ from those who did not. Conclusion In appropriate CSP cases, TAUS-guided suction curettage appears to be a reliable treatment option with acceptable success rates and similar complication profile to other therapeutic options.

PURPOSE To explore the impact of obesity on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes and comparing the results with regards to age groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective cohort recruited 780 women that underwent IVF. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) were excluded from the study. Women under and above 35 years were categorized into three groups as normal weight, overweight, and obese. The main outcome measures were ovarian response, oocyte maturity, and clinical pregnancy rates. RESULTS Despite oocyte count and fertilization rate that decreased in both younger and older obese women, this difference was not statistically significant. After age matched-normal weight controls, the clinical pregnancy rates were significantly decreased in older obese women. On the other hand, poor ovarian response observed significantly in young obese women without effect on pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION These results suggested that obesity in young and old women has different outcomes and different steps of IVF process may be affected.

Objective To investigate whether amnioreduction has any impact on emergency cervical cerclage outcome. Materials and methods Data of women who underwent emergency cervical cerclage for advanced cervical dilatation and protruding membranes were analyzed retrospectively. Results During the study interval, a total of 56 women who were underwent amnioreduction (n=26) and who did not (n=30) were eligible for analysis of the study. Gestational age at cerclage, delivery, and prolongation of pregnancy interval were comparable between the groups (21.3 ±3.3 vs. 20.6 ±3.1 weeks; p = 0.44; 28.3 ±6.1 vs. 28.1 ±5.6 weeks; p = 0.74; 53.7± 46.1 vs. 47.3± 36.7 days; p = 0.56 respectively). Number of live birth rates and perinatal mortality rates were also not statistically significantly different between the groups (73.1% vs. 70.0%; p = 0.80; 15.4% vs. 13.3%; p = 0.83). Conclusions Emergency cerclage yields live take home baby rates in more than half of the patients. The decision to perform amnioreduction should be based on suspicion of chorioamnionitis and patient's motivation to know exactly what is the risk of chorioamnionitis.

Objective To compare HOXA-10 gene expression in eutopic endometrium samples, between fertile and infertile endometriosis patients and the fertile control cases, and in endometrium and endometrioma specimens, between severe and moderate endometriosis cases. Study Design Prospective clinical study included women without infertility and endometriosis (Group 1); women without infertility but with endometrioma (Group 2); and infertile women with endometrioma (Group 3). In addition, the Group 2 and 3 cohort were assessed based on the findings obtained during laparoscopy, based on the (rAFS) scoring, as women with a rAFS score of 16–40 were evaluated in Group A, whereas those with rAFS score above 40 were considered in Group B. HOXA-10 gene expression was evaluated in both secretory endometrium tissue and endometrioma specimens. Results Eutopic endometrium samples from group 2 (reference gene = 0,680 vs. target gene = 0,362) and group 3 (reference gene = 0,641 vs. target gene = 0,183) patients revealed a 1,871-fold and 3,509-fold decrease in HOXA-10 gene expression, respectively, as compared to group 1. Endometrial HOXA-10 gene expression was 1,778-fold down-regulated in group 3 women (reference gene = 1,510 vs. target gene = 0,850), when compared to group 2. Both eutopic endometrium and endometrioma tissue samples from severe endometriosis patients revealed 1,259-fold (reference gene = 1,523 vs. target gene = 1,210) and 1,338-fold (reference gene = 1,274 vs. target gene = 0,952), down-regulation in HOXA-10 gene expressions, respectively, as compared to moderate cases. Conclusion Endometrial HOXA-10 gene expression in women with endometriosis is significantly down-regulated than in those without endometriosis. Endometriosis patients with infertility have significantly lower levels of endometrial HOXA-10 gene expression than endometriosis without infertility; thus decreased expression of this gene may, directly or indirectly, be related with the endometriosis-associated infertility. Severe endometriosis cases express, in their both endometrium and endometrioma tissues, significantly lower levels of HOXA-10 gene than moderate endometriosis cases.

To compare perinatal outcomes between patients with and without abnormal Doppler findings and lactate peak in the fetal brain detected by magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)HMRS) and to assess the feasibility of fetal brain lactate in the prediction of adverse obstetric outcomes in growth-restricted fetuses.Pregnancies with FGR fetuses underwent Doppler ultrasonography and 3 Tesla (1)HMRS for the presence of lactate peak prior to the delivery. Patients were assigned into the following groups; normal Doppler, no lactate peak (Group 1), normal Doppler, lactate peak (+) (Group II), abnormal Doppler, no lactate peak (Group III), abnormal Doppler, lactate peak (+) (Group IV).Five perinatal deaths, all in Group IV, were encountered (p 0.001). Perinatal death rate was higher in patients with Doppler flow abnormality ((5/12 (41.7%)) than in patients without Doppler abnormality (0/23) (p 0.001) and was significantly higher in the presence (5/18 (27.8%)) than in the absence of lactate peak (0/17) (p = 0.019).Fetuses with brain lactate peak detected by (1)HMRS in addition to altered Doppler findings are more likely to develop short-term morbidities and perinatal death. Fetal brain lactate detected by (1)HMRS may represent a clinical marker of altered brain metabolism and further perinatal complications.

Objective: To determine whether interactions between coital frequency, cervical length, and urogenital infection affect obstetric outcomes. Materials and Methods: A total of 268 unselected pregnant women were recruited in the study. The study population consisted of four groups of women: group 1 (n=203) screened negative for bacterial vaginosis (BV) both in the first and second trimesters; group 2 (n=18) screened negative for BV in the first trimester but positive in the second trimester; group 3 (n=33) screened positive for BV in the first trimester but negative in the second trimester; and group 4 (n=14) screened positive for BV both in the first and second trimesters. Urine culture, cervico-vaginal cultures, and bacterial vaginosis were screened between 11-14 weeks and 20-24 weeks. Results: Two hundred fifty women were eligible for analysis in the study after lost-to-follow up patients were excluded. Previous abortion ≥1 and previous preterm delivery at 24-34 weeks ≥1 were statistically significantly higher in group 2. The number of patients who were diagnosed as having preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) was statistically significantly higher in group 4. Sexual intercourse during the first trimester, cervical length during the second trimester, and history of preterm birth (PTB) were statistically significant risk factors for preterm birth

The effects of childhood cancer therapy on ovarian reserve tests and on pubertal development within 5 years were compared with a control group. The study group was composed of 41 patients who underwent chemotherapy during pre-menarche (subgroup A; n = 15) and after menarche (subgroup B; n = 26); the control group was composed of 44 patients admitted with non-cancer related diseases (in total n = 85). Mean total ovarian volume and total antral follicle counts on ultrasound examination were significantly lower in the study group compared with the control group (3.5 ± 2.3 versus 5.2 ± 2.4 ml; P = 0.001; and 3.4 ± 3.3 versus 8.6 ± 3.5; P < 0.001, respectively). Mean FSH level was significantly higher in the study group (13.5 ± 16.2 versus 7.3 ± 2.7 mIU/ml; P = 0.017). Anti-Mullerian hormone levels in subgroup A were significantly higher than in subgroup B (1.8 ± 0.1 versus 1.5 ± 0.08 pg/dl; P = 0.034). In conclusion ovarian volume, antral follicle count and FSH can be used for evaluating the harmful effect of cancer chemotherapy on ovarian follicles. Post-menarche, Anti-Mullerian values reveal that ovarian follicles are more sensitive to the devastating effects of cytotoxic treatment.

Good anatomic outcomes have been achieved with transvaginal synthetic materials in pelvic organ prolapse, but mesh-related complications are a major health concern. Therefore, developing new synthetic or biological materials with increased tissue strength and decreased complications are major challenges. This paper presents preliminary pilot series of Posterior Intravaginal Slingoplasty (PIVS) procedure performed with mixed material graft containing both autologous tissue and a synthetic material. Six women with symptomatic Utero-Vaginal Prolapse (UVP) ≥ stage 2 underwent the PIVS procedure. Pelvic floor symptoms were assessed with the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI), and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ) both before the procedure and 36 months after the surgery. There were no mesh-related complications or recurrence and all the patients had good functional and anatomic outcomes. These preliminary results are promising, but further long-term studies with a larger series are needed.

To examine effects of body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance (IR) on the in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).A total of 106 women with PCOS who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection were investigated. The patients were stratified into groups according to their BMI [healthy weight: BMI 2.5). The main outcome measures were reproductive and IVF outcomes with respect to BMI and IR.The basal hormonal evaluations, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/FSH, estradiol, testosterone, DHEAS, AMH, and antral follicle counts, were similar between the groups of BMI and IR. The number of retrieved oocytes, MII oocytes, embryo counts, and fertilization and pregnancy rates were similar between lean and overweight/obese PCOS with and without IR. Even though pregnancy and delivery rates per started cycle and embryo transfer were higher in healthy-weight women with PCOS than in overweight/obese patients, it did not reach statistical significance.Reproductive outcomes in women with PCOS according to BMI and IR were similar. Neither BMI nor IR had an independent effect on ovarian response and IVF success in young women with PCOS.

Objective To evaluate preopertive accuracy of endometrial thickness for assesment of histologic grade and stage of endometrial carcinoma and also determining a cut-off value for the determination of grade of endometrial carcinoma. Materials and methods Clinical data of 105 patients who underwent surgical staging with endometrial carcinoma were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperatively endometrial thickness were recorded and correlated with pathologic information. Results A statistically significant correlation was found in between endometrial thickness and grade of the disease (r=0.746, p=0.001). Besides, no correlation was found between endometrial thickness and stage (r=0.153, p=0.119). The endometrial thickness at 9 mm revealed the optimal sensitivity and specificity (93.33 and 26.2, respectively) for turning through grade1 to grade 2 with 68.2% positive predictive value and 66.7% negative predictive value. We indicated the endometrial thickness at 27 mm as the optimal value with sensitivity and specificity (27.27 and 95.65, respectively) for turning through grade 2 to grade 3 with 66.7% positive predictive value and 77.5% negative predictive value. Conclusion In conlusion, sonographic evaluation of the endometrial thickness is economical, simple and can be used as a prognostic tool for endometrial cancer grading. The operating team may have the chance to get prepared before the operation and may have the chance to inform the patient about the operation.

OBJECTIVE: In health care services, patient’s expectations, and satisfaction levels are important markers of the services provided. The aim of this study is to determine patient satisfaction level, and its influential factors in patients receiving treatment on an ambulatory basis who applied to a state hospital. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study a total of 210 patients were face-to-face interviewed, and patient sat isfaction questionnaire survey was performed. Socioeconomic characteristics, physical conditions of the hospital, pecularities of the health care providers, and satisfaction from health care services received were questioned independently. Regression analysis was performed to investigate factors effective on patient satisfaction. RESULTS: A significant correlation was not found between sociodemographic factors, and patient satisfaction (p

Aim The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effects of tubal surgery and antituberculosis treatments in patients with genital tuberculosis. Material and Methods A total of 38 infertile women who had been diagnosed with pelvic tuberculosis and who had had laparoscopy and hysteroscopy were recruited into the study. All women with female genital tuberculosis were divided into two groups: group 1 (salpingectomized, n = 21) and group 2 (not salpingectomized, n = 15). Both of the groups were treated with antitubercular therapy for 6–12 months. Results There was no significant difference in level of gonadotrophins used, estradiol levels on human chorionic gonadotrophin day, mean and mature oocytes retrieved, mean embryos transferred, or cancellation and fertilization rates. Only the number of days of stimulation was statistically significantly higher in group 1 compared to group 2 (10.4 ± 2.3 vs 9.2 ± 1.8; P = 0.048). Although it did not reach the statistically significant level, clinical pregnancy rate was higher in group 1 (37.5%, 12/32 vs 23.8%, 5/21; P = 0.306). Although not statistically significant, number of ongoing pregnancies per embryo transfer, spontaneous abortion rates before 20 weeks of gestation and take-home baby rates were higher in group 1 compared to group 2 (15.5%, 12/77 vs 6.6%, 3/45; P = 0.150; 28.1%, 9 vs 23.8%, 5; P = 0.600; 9%, 3 vs 0; P = 0.160, respectively). Conclusion Salpingectomy is an option for treatment in patients diagnosed with pelvic tuberculosis and infertility to improve both clinical pregnancy rates and take-home baby rates in patients treated with antituberculosis therapy for 12 months.

Aim The aim of study is to compare maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancies in which cerclage was placed following the loss of first fetus with those without cerclage placement in multiple pregnancies for delayed interval delivery. Methods Records of pregnancies in which the first fetus was lost between 13–26 weeks and delayed delivery experienced for retained fetus(es), were collected retrospectively. A total of 20 patients including 11 twins, seven triplets and two quadruplets were evaluated. Cases with cervical cerclage placed after the first delivery were evaluated as the cerclage group (n = 11) and the cases without cerclage placement were evaluated as the non-cerclage group (n = 9). Results Median duration of delay was 22 days (range, 3–121) for both groups; 40 days (range, 5–121) in cerclage group and 12 days (range, 3–46) in the non-cerclage group (P = 0.003). Average birthweight of retained fetus(es) in the cerclage group was 850 ± 153.6 g (mean ± standard error [SE]) and 549.5 ± 149.1 g (mean ± SE) in the non-cerclage group (P = 0.04). Delivery week of retained fetus(es), live birth rate, take-home baby rate and chorioamnionitis ratio were not different in between the groups. Conclusion Cervical cerclage after the first delivery is associated with a longer delivery interval and higher birthweight of retained fetus.

Methotrexate is a commonly used agent in the treatment of an un-ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Thromboembolic events are rarely seen side effects of such a medicine. We report the case of the 22-year-old woman who underwent Methotrexate therapy for an un-ruptured ectopic pregnancy without any history of thromboembolic risk factors. A second dose (50 mg/m2) was administered to the patient showing a nondecreasing pattern of β-HCG levels after an initial standard dosage of Methotrexate (50 mg/m2). On the 12th day of the treatment, a sudden onset of painless vision loss was seen in the right eye. Fundal imaging and fluorescein angiography revealed an occlusion of the superior temporal branch of the right retinal artery. After a month of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, complete recovery without loss of vision was achieved.

To investigate the biochemical markers such as nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH), indicators of the oxidative status of the follicle, to predict the outcome of in vitro fertilization.Follicular aspirates of dominant follicles were collected during oocyte retrieval. Biochemical analyses of NO, MDA and GSH were performed on all aspirates.When the successful and unsuccessful pregnancy groups were compared in terms of NO, MDA and GSH, follicular fluid MDA was significantly higher (p=0.001) and follicular fluid NO level was significantly lower (p=0.039) in the pregnant group. Correlation analysis between oxidative stress and IVF parameters showed that MDA had a positive weak correlation with the number of grade 1 embryos (r=0.271, p=0.033) and fertilization rate (r=0.263, p=0.039). ROC curve analysis found that malondialdehyde has an area under the curve of 0.74 and can predict pregnancy with high sensitivity.As malondialdehyde was significantly different in pregnant and non-pregnant women and had a good sensitivity profile in predicting pregnancy, it may be considered a marker for predicting IVF success.Folikül oksidatif durumunun belirteci olan nitrik oksit (NO), malondialdehit (MDA) ve redükte glutatyon (GSH) gibi kimyasal belirteçlerinOosit toplama sırasında dominant foliküllerin aspire edilen sıvıları toplandı. Tüm aspire edilen sıvılarda biyokimyasal analiz ile NO, MDA ve GSH seviyelerine bakıldı.Gebelikle sonuçlanan ve gebe kalamayan olguların NO, MDA and GSH seviyeleri karşılaştırıldığında, folikül sıvısı MDA seviyesi gebe kalanlarda anlamlı olarak yüksek bulunurken (p=0.001), NO seviyesi ise gebe kalanlarda anlamlı olarak düşük bulundu (p=0.039). Oksidatif stres ve in vitro fertilizasyon parametreleri arasında korelasyon analizi yapıldığında, MDA ile grade 1 embriyo sayısı arasında (r=0.271, p=0.033) ve fertilizasyon oranı arasında (r=0.263, p=0.039) zayıf pozitif bir korrelasyon bulundu. ROC eğrisi analizinde MDA’nın çizgi altında kalan alanı 0.74 hesaplanarak gebe kalan olguları öngörmede yüksek bir duyarlılığı olduğu bulundu.Malondialdehit gebe kalan olguların follikül sıvılarında gebe kalamayanlardan anlamlı olarak yüksek bulunmasının yanı sıra, gebeliği öngörmede iyi bir duyarlılığa sahipti ve IVF olgularında gebeliği öngörmede bir belirteç olarak kullanılabilir.

Previous reports suggest that maternal exposure to acute stress related to earthquakes affects the sex ratio at birth. Our aim was to examine the change in sex ratio at birth after Eastern Marmara earthquake disasters.This study was performed using the official birth statistics from January 1997 to December 2002 - before and after 17 August 1999, the date of the Golcuk Earthquake - supplied from the Turkey Statistics Institute. The secondary sex ratio was expressed as the male proportion at birth, and the ratio of both affected and unaffected areas were calculated and compared on a monthly basis using data from gender with using the Chi-square test.We observed significant decreases in the secondary sex ratio in the 4th and 8th months following an earthquake in the affected region compared to the unaffected region (p= 0.001 and p= 0.024). In the earthquake region, the decrease observed in the secondary sex ratio during the 8th month after an earthquake was specific to the period after the earthquake.Our study indicated a significant reduction in the secondary sex ratio after an earthquake. With these findings, events that cause sudden intense stress such as earthquakes can have an effect on the sex ratio at birth.Önceki çalışmalarda, depremler ile ilişkili maternal akut stres maruziyetinin doğumda cinsiyet oranına etkisi bildirilmişti. Bu çalışmada amacımız Doğu Marmara deprem felaketlerinden sonra doğumda cinsiyet oranındaki değişimi incelemekti.Bu çalışma Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu’ndan (TUİK) sağlanan Ocak 1997 ve Aralık 2002 yılları arasında, -17 Ağustos 1999 Gölcük depreminden önce ve sonra- resmi doğum istatistikleri kullanılarak gerçekleştirildi. Sekonder cinsiyet oranı, doğumda erkek oranı olarak ifade edildi ve sekonder cinsiyet oranı, etkilenmiş ile etkilenmemiş bölgelerin ikisinde de cinsiyet verileri ve ki-kare testi kullanılarak aylık bazda hesaplandı ve karşılaştırıldı.Biz Gölcük depreminden sonraki 4. ve 8. aylarda etkilenmiş bölgede, etkilenmemiş bölge ile karşılaştırıldığında, sekonder cinsiyet oranında anlamlı azalma olduğunu gözledik (sırası ile p= 0.001 ve p= 0.024). Deprem bölgesinde, depremden sonraki 8. ayda sekonder cinsiyet oranında gözlenen azalma deprem sonrasına özgü idi.Çalışmamız deprem sonrası sekonder cinsiyet oranında anlamlı azalma olduğunu gösterdi. Bu bulgular ile deprem gibi ani yoğun strese neden olan olayların doğumda cinsiyet oranı üzerine etkili olduğu göz önünde bulundurulmalıdır.

Objective: To compare microdose GnRH agonist (MDL) protocol with GnRH antagonist/letrazole (AL) protocol in patients with poor ovarian response. Design: Randomised clinical trial. Setting: Kocaeli University Assisted Reproductive Centre Patients: Fifty-five patients with the diagnosis of poor ovarian response (POR) were randomized and performed either MDL or AL protocol. Interventions: POR was diagnosed according to ESHRE Bologna criteria in case of presence of 2 out of 3 criteria. In the MDL group (n=27), 40µg/0.2 cc subcutaneous leuprolid acetate was given two times a day starting on the first day of menstrual cycle. On the second day of the cycle, gonadotrophin stimulation was started at 450-600 IU and/or 150 IU human menopausal gonadotrophin (hMG) along with leuprolid. In the AL group (n=28), 5 mg letrazole was given for 5 days starting on the second day of the spontaneous cycle and after the 5th day of the cycle, 450-600 IU and/or 150 IU hMG was given. Main Outcome Measures: To compare the outcomes of MDL protocol with AL protocol in patients with poor ovarian response. Results: Stimulation days, total gonadotrophin dose (IU), peak E2 (pg/ml) levels, and endometrial thickness were found to be statistically significantly lower in the AL group. While no cases of cycle cancellation was detected in the MDL group, statistically significantly higher rates of cycle cancellation (%42.8, p

Background To evaluate the effect of copper intrauterine device (IUD) on the expression of cyclooxygenase (COX) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the luteal phase endometrium. Study Design A prospective clinical study was conducted on 30 women who were willing to use a copper IUD contraception. Endometrial biopsies and blood samples were taken before and 3 months after the insertion of the IUD on Day 3 and Days 20–24 of the cycle. Main outcome measures were to evaluate the effect of copper IUD on uterine artery blood flow using pulsed color Doppler ultrasonography and the relationship of bleeding abnormalities and menstrual pain level with the uterine blood flow, COX-2 and iNOS expression. Results Only the left uterine artery pulsatility and resistance indices decreased statistically significantly (p=.005 and p=.039, respectively). Other Doppler parameters showed no change. Cyclooxygenase-2 expression of both endometrial luminal epithelium (p=.03) and gland epithelium (p=.03) increased significantly. Inducible NOS expression of the endometrial surface epithelium decreased significantly after IUD insertion (p=.01). Conclusions Although COX-2 expression increased 3 months after copper IUD insertion, iNOS expression of the luminal epithelium decreased. Local hypoxia caused by copper and vasoconstrictor prostanoids may play a role in IUD-related menstrual abnormalities.

SUMMARY The common availability of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has brought the increase of multiple pregnancies. Usually, soon after the preterm delivery of the first fetus in multiple pregnancies, the delivery of the remaining fetus also happens. Delayed interval delivery of the remaining fetus after preterm delivery of the first one allows to gain time for fetal lung maturity and to cope with prematurity. We present here live healthy neonatal outcomes in two sequential cases, one twin and one triplet pregnancies, after emergency cerclage followed by second emergency cerclage due to cervical tear with a delayed delivery of 72 and 74 days respectively. The success of pregnancy prolongation in cervical cerclage cases depends on how effectively uterine contractions are prevented and how possible subclinical infections are controlled. We suggest that use of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and tocolytic agents should be the main target to safely postpone delivery of the remaining twin.

To compare the efficacy of repeated doses of 100 microg vs. 200 microg misoprostol given sublingually for induction of second trimester abortion.One hundred and sixty-two women at 15-22 weeks' gestation were randomized to receive every 2 h either 100 microg (group 1; n = 81) or 200 microg (group 2; n = 81) misoprostol sublingually. The primary outcome measure was the abortion rate within 24 h. The secondary outcome measures were the induction-abortion interval, the total misoprostol dose required, and side effects of the regimen.There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to the abortion rates within 12 h (43.2% in group 1 vs. 48.1% in group 2; p = 0.52; relative risk [RR]: 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.4-1.5) and 24 h (92.6% in group 1 vs. 91.4% in group 2; p = 0.77; RR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.37-3.6). The induction-abortion intervals in the two groups were of similar length (885 minutes in group 1 vs. 912 minutes in group 2; p = 0.72). When the total dose of misoprostol was compared between the two groups, women belonging to group 2 on average had received significantly more misoprostol than those in group 1 (1274 +/- 592 microg [7 +/- 3 doses] vs. 614 +/- 432 microg [6 +/- 4 doses], respectively; p = 0.000).Sublingual administration of repeated doses of 100 microg misoprostol for abortion induction appears to be equally effective to that of repeated doses of 200 microg.

To integrate intermittent fetal pulse oximetry (FPO) to intrapartum fetal assessment and reduce the rate of caesarean sections.A randomised controlled trial using 37 weeks as a restriction point was conducted in 230 women induced with misoprostol. One hundred-fourteen were assessed with intermittent FPO plus fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring (study group) and 116 were assessed with FHR monitoring alone (control group). The primary outcome measure was caesarean delivery rates. Secondary outcome measures included induction to delivery interval, number of emergency caesarean deliveries performed for fetal non-reassuring FHR patterns and neonatal outcomes.There was a reduction both in the overall caesarean deliveries (study n = 18, (15.7%); vs. control n = 31 (26.7%); p = 0.04), and the rate of caesarean deliveries performed for non-reassuring fetal status in the study group (study n = 11, (9.6%); vs. control n = 23 (19.8%); p = 0.03). Induction to delivery interval was similar in between the groups (759 +/- 481 min in group 1; vs. 735 +/- 453 min in group 2 respectively; p = 0.69).Intermittent FPO in misoprostol induced deliveries decreases both total caesarean rate and the caesarean rate due to non-reassuring FHR patterns.

Background: Paradoxical embolism via a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a rare event in the puerperium as a cause of stroke. Case: We report a 21-year-old, G4P3A1 woman with the symptoms of convulsion, stroke and unconsciousness 1 week after cesarean delivery. An infarction was detected in both frontal lobes, and echocardiography and MRI confirmed the PFO. Her follow-up course with low-molecular-weight heparin and then warfarin for 6 months was uneventful. Conclusion: Patients with an unexplained arterial event should be screened for PFO and possible paradoxical embolism.

Introduction: The integration of family planning education into obstetric care has been suggested to increase postpartum contraception use. However, ideal time and type of counseling is controversial. There is no prospective study about combining prenatal and postnatal education on the postpartum modern contraceptive use (PPMC). Aim: This study was aimed to explore the effects of the addition of postpartum contraceptive counselling to antenatal education on PPMC. Materials and Methods: Family planning counselling was given to all participating patients throughout antenatal care (ANC) via brief communications. After delivery, the women were categorised into two age-matched groups with a 1:1 allocation ratio in the order of the birth date. No further intervention was performed for Group I (n: 98). Women in Group II (n: 102) received further contraceptive education at six weeks after hospital discharge. Six months after delivery, PPMC was compared between the two groups. Results: PPMC was similar between Group I and II (p>0.05). Previous contraceptive experiences, obstetric care service intensity and partner's support were the factors related to postnatal contraceptive use. Logistic regression analysis showed that PPMC was independent of confounding factors in each group. Conclusion: The addition of postnatal counseling to antenatal one did not further increase PPMC. The results of this study suggested that family planning counseling should be provided antenatally.

To investigate the inflammatory markers in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and associations of these markers with obesity and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. A total of 292 women underwent IVF procedure either with PCOS (n = 146) or without PCOS (n = 146, age, and body mass index (BMI) matched controls) were included in the study. All patients were classified according to BMI levels (normal weight: NW, BMI

To evaluate whether symptoms and recurrence would differ with and without Cu-IUD removal in patients with concomitant biofilm forming Candida spp.The data of 270 consecutive patients wearing TCu380A Cu-IUD were evaluated. Among these patients, 100/270 were found to have Candida spp. isolated from the tail of Cu-IUD or vaginal samples. These patients were investigated in four groups: Group 1 (n = 24; Biofilm (+), Cu-IUD removed), Group 2 (n = 14; Biofilm (+), Cu-IUD not removed), Group 3 (n = 29; Biofilm (-), Cu-IUD removed), Group 4 (n = 33; Biofilm (-), Cu-IUD not removed). Patients in each group were followed for clinical signs and symptoms for 8-16 months and compared to each other.Symptoms, physical findings and candida positivity have decreased statistically significantly in Group 1 one year after removal of Cu-IUD (95.8% vs. 4.2%, p0.01; 95.8% vs. 4.2%, p0.01; 100% vs. 8.3%, p0.01 respectively). In Group 2, symptoms, physical findings and candida positivity have decreased after follow-up, but without a statistical significance. In Group 3, all the parameters have decreased, but only decrease in candida positivity has reached statistical significance (100% vs. 48.3%, p0.01). In Group 4 - as in Group 1- symptoms, physical findings and candida positivity have decreased statistically significantly (48.5% vs. 18.2%, p = 0.01; 72.7% vs. 48.5%, p = 0.05; 100% vs. 51.5%, p0.01 respectively).Biofilm forming microorganisms should be considered in the management of vaginal infections or symptoms for safer use of intrauterine devices.

Objective. Aim of our study is to present a case of a twin pregnancy following invitro fertilization cycle complicated with hemoperitoneum at third trimester.Case. A 26-year-old nulliparous pregnant woman at 32 weeks of gestation with twin pregnancy following invitro fertilization cycle complained of abdominal pain. After 48 hours of admission, laparotomy was performed with indications of aggravated abdominal pain and decreased hemoglobin levels. Utero-ovarian vein branch rupture was detected on the right posterior side of uterus and bleeding was stopped by suturing the vein. Etiopathogenesis of the present case still remains unclear.Conclusion. Spontaneous rupture of the uterine vessels during pregnancy is a rare complication and may lead to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis and treatment are based on the clinical symptoms of acute abdominal pain and laboratory tests of hypovolemic shock signs.

Pentalogy of Cantrell is a rare malformation described in the literature. We report a case of pentalogy of Cantrell associated with left limb deficiency in a twin pregnancy. The fetus with multiple anomalies revealed kyphosis, ectopia cordis, and a large defect with protruding liver and bowel loops at 12 weeks and 3 days of gestational age on ultrasound scan. The other fetus was ultrasonographically normal. We diagnosed a case of pentalogy of Cantrell in a twin pregnancy after exclusion of limb body wall complex, body stalk anomaly, and amniotic band syndrome and after delivery of the fetuses. Macroscopic examinations were ectopia cordis, extrusion of the abdominal organs without membranes surrounding, and agenesis of the left limb.

Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome is a rare cutaneous vascular disorder characterized by the presence of multiple hemangiomata, arteriovenous fistulas, and limb hypertrophy. We report the prenatal sonographic findings in a case of Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber (KTW) syndrome including fetal limb hypertrophy and large subcutaneous cystic lesions. Prenatal diagnosis is possible by ultrasound examination and recognition important for prevention of complications and future management.

Success rates of any artificial reproduction techniques depend on a correct protocol for ovarian stimulation. This can be decided only by proper assessment of ovarian reserve before commencing ovarian stimulation. This study has been conducted to investigate the role of hormonal and functional biomarkers in the prediction of ovarian response. A total of 689 women between July 2012 and July 2013 undergoing IVF at Kocaeli University have been enrolled in the study. Patients have been categorized into three groups according to the number of oocytes retrieved: 0–3 oocytes (poor responders), 4–15 oocytes (normoresponders), and >16 oocytes (hyperresponders). Groups have been compared according to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), E2, luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, antral follicle counts, and E2 levels on hCG days. Furthermore, regression analysis has been performed with parameters such as age, FSH, LH, E2, anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle counts (AFC) that can affect the total number of oocytes retrieved and pregnancy rates and their interactions with each other have been investigated. FSH, age, hCG day LH level, cycle cancellation rate, total gonadotropin dose were significantly higher in the poor responder group, but in this group, AFC, AMH, hCG day E2 level, and the number of MII oocytes were significantly lower. Cut-off values of normal responders for FSH, AMH, and AFC were 8.43 area under curve [AUC: 0.541 (0.491–0.590)], 0.62 [AUC: 0.704 (0.638–0.764)], and 6 [AUC: 0.715 (0.667–0.760)], respectively. Cut-off values for the absolute poor response group (cycle cancellation) were 12.75 for FSH [AUC: 0.533 (0.49–0.57)], 0.23 for AMH [AUC: 0.678 (0.618–0.733)], and 6 for AFC [AUC: 0.576 (0.531–0.613)]. AMH and AFC were the best markers for the prediction of total oocyte count, independent of age, FSH, and LH levels. AMH and AFC were found to be the best ovarian reserve tests that can determine the total oocyte count retrieved, without any significant effects on pregnancy rates.

Objective. To discuss a patient with a prenatal diagnosis of unilateral isolated femoral focal deficiency.Case. Antenatal diagnosis of unilateral isolated femoral focal deficiency was made at 20 weeks of gestation. The length of left femur was shorter than the right, and fetal femur length was below the fifth percentile. Proximal femoral focal deficiency was diagnosed. After delivery, the diagnosis was confirmed with skeletal radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging. In prenatal ultrasonographic examination, the early recognition and exclusion of skeletal dysplasias is important; moreover, treatment plans should be initiated, and valuable information should be provided to the family.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered as the most common endocrinopathy among women of reproductive age. Oral contraceptives (OCs) and metformin are one of the main drug groups in the long-term treatment of PCOS. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol + metformin on ultrasonographic markers, body fat mass (BFM) index, leptin–ghrelin. This was a prospective clinical study conducted at Kocaeli University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology on 42 PCOS patients. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups [Group I (n = 22): drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol (DEE); Group II (n = 20): drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol + metformin (M)] according to Body Mass Index (BMI) findings. Patients were evaluated in terms of leptin–ghrelin, ultrasound, and body fat distribution before and 6 months after therapy. Main outcome measures were to investigate the effects of drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol + metformin on ovarian ultrasonographic markers, BFM index, leptin, and ghrelin. In patients with higher BMI, ovarian volume, numbers of follicles, stromal area, and echogenicity have been reported to be larger. In group II, a negative correlation between ghrelin and abdominal fat mass after treatment has been noted, whereas in group I a positive correlation between leptin and abdominal fat mass after treatment has been observed. Addition of metformin could have beneficial effects on abdominal fat mass. Stromal area measurement and assessment of fat mass with Dual X-ray Absorptiometry could be helpful as a quantitative way of measurement.

To evaluate the maternal and fetal outcome in 44 pregnancies complicated with HELLP syndrome and to investigate the role of platelet counts in its prognosis. A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 44 patients with the diagnosis of hemolysis elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count between June 1997 and January 2009 was performed. The patients were divided into two groups according to blood platelet count: platelet count