Understanding Comorbidities in Gynecologic Diseases: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Reproductive and Developmental Biology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2025) | Viewed by 6948

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Guest Editor
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, ViaOlgettina 58-60, 20132, Milan, Italy
Interests: endometriosis; adenomyosis; infertility; IVF; ART; oocyte cryopreservation; embryo transfer; data analysis; statistics; epidemiology

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Guest Editor
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Via Olgettina 58-60, 20132, Milan, Italy
Interests: infertility; IVF; ART; oocyte cryopreservation; embryo transfer; endometriosis; cosmetic gynecology; hyaluronic acid; dyspareunia; vulvodynia
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Comorbidities in gynecologic diseases refer to the presence of additional health conditions that coexist with a primary gynecological disorder. These comorbidities can significantly impact the diagnosis, treatment, and management of gynecologic diseases. Common comorbid conditions include chronic pain disorders, such as endometriosis, which may coexist with irritable bowel syndrome or interstitial cystitis. Hormonal imbalances seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be associated with metabolic syndrome, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular risks. Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are also prevalent among women with chronic gynecological conditions. Addressing these comorbidities is crucial for holistic patient care, as they can affect the efficacy of treatments and overall quality of life.

Dr. Noemi Salmeri
Dr. Giovanni Buzzaccarini
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • women’s health
  • women’s disease
  • systemic diseases
  • comorbities
  • systemic approach
  • multi-organ

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Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 778 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Mitophagy and Apoptosis Related Gene Expressions in Waste Embryo Culture Medium of Female Infertility Types
by Duygu Kütük, Çağrı Öner, Murat Başar, Berkay Akcay, İbrahim Orçun Olcay, Ertuğrul Çolak, Belgin Selam and Mehmet Cincik
Life 2024, 14(11), 1507; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111507 - 19 Nov 2024
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Abstract
Mitochondria is an important organelle for the oocyte-to-embryo transition in the early embryonic development period. The oocyte uses mitochondria functionally and its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content as the main energy source in the embryo development at the preimplantation stage. The aim of this [...] Read more.
Mitochondria is an important organelle for the oocyte-to-embryo transition in the early embryonic development period. The oocyte uses mitochondria functionally and its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content as the main energy source in the embryo development at the preimplantation stage. The aim of this study is to compare mitophagic, apoptotic and humanin gene expressions from the culture medium fluid in which embryos are developed and monitored among normoresponder (NOR), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), young and older patients with poor ovarian reserve (POR). The study groups consisted of infertile patients who applied to the Bahçeci Umut IVF Center as NOR (Control), PCOS, POR-Advanced (POR-A) and POR-Young (POR-Y). After the isolation of total RNA from the collected samples, MFN1, MFN2, PINK1, PARKIN, SMN1, SMN2, p53 and Humanin gene expressions were determined by Real Time-PCR. The average age of only the POR-A was determined to be higher than the NOR (p < 0.001). The MFN1, SMN2 (p < 0.05), Humanin and p53 gene expressions (p < 0.001) increased, while PINK1 gene expression decreased (p < 0.05), in the POR-Y compared to the NOR. A decrease in MFN2, PARKIN (p < 0.05) and PINK1 gene expressions was determined in the PCOS compared to the NOR (p < 0.001). Furthermore, a decrease was observed in MFN2, PINK1 (p < 0.001) and Humanin gene expressions compared to the NOR (p < 0.05). The current data are the first in the literature determining the apoptotic and mitophagic status of the oocyte. The current results prove that waste embryo culture fluid may provide a non-invasive profile for important cellular parameters such as mitochondrial dysfunction in female infertility. The evaluation of significant cellular parameters can be performed much earlier without any intervention into the embryo. Full article
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8 pages, 491 KiB  
Article
Sleep, Mood, and Nutrition Patterns of Postmenopausal Women Diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder by Menopause Periods
by Cansu Kabadayı Demir, Sinem Bayram, Beril Köse, Esra Köseler Beyaz and Esen Yeşil
Life 2024, 14(6), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060775 - 19 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1880
Abstract
Menopausal women experience changes in ovarian activity and fluctuating hormone levels. The aim of this study was to detect ongoing sleep and nutritional problems in postmenopausal women. This study was conducted with 62 postmenopausal women who had been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, [...] Read more.
Menopausal women experience changes in ovarian activity and fluctuating hormone levels. The aim of this study was to detect ongoing sleep and nutritional problems in postmenopausal women. This study was conducted with 62 postmenopausal women who had been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, were aged 42–64, were not dieting for at least 1 month, and had been using antidepressants for at least 6 months. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale–42 were used. Anthropometric measurements were taken and body composition analysis was performed. The prevalence of obesity and overweight were 12.9% and 71%, respectively. Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swing were more common in those who had been through menopause for <5 years. Also, the PSQI, Depression, and Stress scores of those women were higher. Women who had been menopausal for ≥5 years had a higher BMI, waist/hip ratio, and fat mass and better sleep quality and lower daytime dysfunction according to the PSQI. Energy and fat intake were higher, while protein, vitamin C, and calcium intakes were lower in women who had been menopausal for ≥5 years. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to review approaches for early and late menopausal periods and to individualize treatment options, especially in patients whose symptoms persist. Full article
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Review

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15 pages, 517 KiB  
Review
Update on Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Scoping Review of a Tailored Treatment-Based Approach
by Ilaria Cuccu, Tullio Golia D’Augè, Ilaria Firulli, Emanuele De Angelis, Giovanni Buzzaccarini, Ottavia D’Oria, Aris Raad Besharat, Donatella Caserta, Giorgio Bogani, Ludovico Muzii, Violante Di Donato and Andrea Giannini
Life 2024, 14(11), 1504; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111504 - 19 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3037
Abstract
This scoping review explores the therapeutic strategies available for managing genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), a condition often underdiagnosed and undertreated despite significantly affecting women’s quality of life. GSM results from decreased estrogen levels during menopause, leading to a range of symptoms including [...] Read more.
This scoping review explores the therapeutic strategies available for managing genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), a condition often underdiagnosed and undertreated despite significantly affecting women’s quality of life. GSM results from decreased estrogen levels during menopause, leading to a range of symptoms including vulvovaginal atrophy and urinary tract issues. Material and Methods: we screened the literature for original studies with “menopause”, “hormonal therapy”, “vulvovaginal atrophy”, “urinary incontinence”, “urinary infections”, “genitourinary syndrome”. Results: A total of 451 relevant articles were retrieved. After screening, 19 articles were included in this scoping review. Discussion: First-line treatments typically include lubricants and moisturizers for short-term symptom relief, while unresolved or severe cases may warrant hormonal treatment. Topical hormonal treatments often have fewer side effects than systemic alternatives. Special attention is given to selective estrogen receptor modulators like ospemifene and steroid hormones like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which have shown beneficial effects on GSM symptoms. Moreover, innovative therapeutic approaches, such as laser treatment, are discussed in the context of their efficacy and accessibility. The safety of GSM hormonal therapy in women with a history or risk of cancer is also addressed, noting the need for more definitive research in this area. While there is a growing demand for tailored therapy, this scoping review emphasizes the importance of effective communication and counseling to allow women to make informed decisions about their treatment. Overall, this review underscores the need for increased awareness and further research into effective treatment options for GSM. Full article
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