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Keywords = vaginal spotting

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14 pages, 412 KiB  
Article
Knowledge of Vaginal Microbiota and Its Association with Perceptions of Vulvovaginal Aesthetic Procedures Among Saudi Women
by Esraa Aldawood, Lama Alzamil, Layla Faqih and Sarah Almuhayya
Healthcare 2025, 13(16), 1955; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13161955 - 9 Aug 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
Background: The human microbiome includes trillions of microorganisms, with the vaginal microbiota playing a vital role in women’s reproductive health. Concurrently, interest in vulvovaginal esthetic procedures (VVEP) is increasing. This study aimed to compare single and married or previously married women in terms [...] Read more.
Background: The human microbiome includes trillions of microorganisms, with the vaginal microbiota playing a vital role in women’s reproductive health. Concurrently, interest in vulvovaginal esthetic procedures (VVEP) is increasing. This study aimed to compare single and married or previously married women in terms of their knowledge of the human microbiome, particularly the vaginal microbiota, and their perceptions of VVEP. It also examined associations between microbiota awareness, attitudes toward VVEP, and sociodemographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional, online survey was distributed to women aged 18 years and older in Saudi Arabia. A total of 1019 responses were collected. Chi-square tests compared knowledge responses between marital groups, while linear regression was used to explore associations between microbiota knowledge and participant characteristics. Results: Single women showed greater awareness of general microbiome concepts, with 42% correctly identifying the term “microbiome” compared to 29.89% of married or previously married women. In contrast, married or previously married women demonstrated better knowledge of vaginal microbiota and the effects of antibiotic misuse. Of the participants, 6.6% had undergone one or more VVEP. Furthermore, 19.7% of single women and 18.3% of married or previously married women expressed future interest in undergoing such procedures. Marital status influenced perceptions of specific procedures, with married or previously married women more likely to justify interventions such as augmentation of the labia minora/“G-spot” augmentation and vaginal rejuvenation. Justification for augmentation of the labia minora/“G-spot” augmentation in this group was associated with lower vaginal microbiota knowledge. Healthcare professionals exhibited significantly higher microbiota awareness. Conclusion: Enhancing women’s knowledge of vaginal microbiota can enhance informed decision-making and reduce unnecessary esthetic interventions among Saudi women, thereby supporting better reproductive health outcomes. Full article
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14 pages, 3375 KiB  
Case Report
Large-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Cervix: Case Report and Literature Review
by Wing Yu Sharon Siu, Chiu-Hsuan Cheng and Dah-Ching Ding
Diagnostics 2025, 15(6), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15060775 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1157
Abstract
Background and clinical significance: Large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the cervix is considered a rare type of cancer: it represents <1% of invasive cervical cancers. The optimal treatment protocol is not fully established because of its rarity and diagnostic challenges. Case Presentation [...] Read more.
Background and clinical significance: Large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the cervix is considered a rare type of cancer: it represents <1% of invasive cervical cancers. The optimal treatment protocol is not fully established because of its rarity and diagnostic challenges. Case Presentation: A 72-year-old Asian female presented to our outpatient clinic with postmenopausal vaginal spotting for 1 month. Vaginal sonography revealed a cervical tumor of 2.7 cm in diameter with hypervascularity. Tumor markers such as CA 125, CA 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigen, and squamous cell carcinoma antigen all showed no abnormality. Due to high suspicion of cervical cancer, a pap smear and endocervical curettage were performed and confirmed the diagnosis of LCNEC. A positron emission tomography–computed tomography scan demonstrated a glucose hypermetabolic lesion in the mid-pelvic region, localized to the uterus, consistent with LCNEC. Surgery with radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection was performed. The patient was finally diagnosed with pT1b2N1mi, FIGO IIIC1. Immunohistochemical stain shows that the neoplastic cells were CK (+), p63 (−), p16 (−), CEA (−), vimentin (−), ER (−), WT-1 (−), p53 (−), and CD56 (+), with a high Ki67 index (75%). Concurrent chemotherapy with cisplatin and radiotherapy was performed. Four cycles of etoposide and cisplatin were planned. A 3-month follow-up of this patient revealed stable tumor marker levels. Conclusions: This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and aggressive nature of LCNEC of the cervix, emphasizing the need for a standardized treatment approach to improve patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Diagnosis and Prognosis)
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14 pages, 571 KiB  
Article
Impact of Genital Infections and Antibiotic Use on Incidence of Preterm Birth: A Retrospective Observational Study
by Daniela Teodora Marti, Felix Bratosin, Ovidiu Rosca, Roxana Folescu, Cosmin Citu, Adrian Ratiu and Zoran Laurentiu Popa
Antibiotics 2024, 13(3), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13030240 - 5 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2760
Abstract
This study investigates the complex interplay among genital infections, antibiotic usage, and preterm birth. This study aims to identify common genital pathogens associated with preterm births, assess the impact of various antibiotic treatments on pregnancy outcomes, and understand antibiotic resistance patterns among these [...] Read more.
This study investigates the complex interplay among genital infections, antibiotic usage, and preterm birth. This study aims to identify common genital pathogens associated with preterm births, assess the impact of various antibiotic treatments on pregnancy outcomes, and understand antibiotic resistance patterns among these pathogens. This study included 71 pregnant women who experienced preterm birth and 94 women with genital infections who delivered at term. Various maternal characteristics, medical history, signs and symptoms, gestational weight, gestational age, type of birth, vaginal pH, Nugent scores, and vaginal flora were analyzed. Antibiotic resistance patterns of isolated microorganisms were also examined. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and genital herpes was significantly higher in the preterm group. Preterm births were associated with fever, pelvic pain, vaginal spotting, and fatigue. Vaginal pH levels and Nugent scores were significantly higher in the preterm group, indicating disturbed vaginal flora. The presence of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs) was a particularly strong risk factor, increasing by more than four times the odds of preterm birth (OR = 4.45, p = 0.001). Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) presence was another critical factor, with a four-fold increase in the odds of preterm birth (OR = 4.01, p = 0.034). The overall presence of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) organisms significantly increased the odds of preterm birth (OR = 3.73, p = 0.001). Specific pathogens like Chlamydia trachomatis (OR = 3.12, p = 0.020) and Mycoplasma hominis (OR = 3.64, p = 0.006) were also identified as significant risk factors. Ureaplasma urealyticum also showed a significantly higher risk of preterm birth (OR = 2.76, p = 0.009). This study highlights the importance of screening for and treating genital infections during pregnancy, especially STDs and genital herpes, as they can significantly increase the risk of preterm birth. Additionally, the presence of specific microorganisms and antibiotic resistance patterns plays an essential role in preterm birth risk. Early detection and targeted antibiotic treatment may help mitigate this risk and improve pregnancy outcomes. Full article
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12 pages, 2497 KiB  
Article
Choice of Ultrafilter Affects Recovery Rate of Bacteriophages
by Frej Larsen, Simone Margaard Offersen, Viktoria Rose Li, Ling Deng, Dennis Sandris Nielsen and Torben Sølbeck Rasmussen
Viruses 2023, 15(10), 2051; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15102051 - 5 Oct 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3149
Abstract
Studies into the viral fraction of complex microbial communities, like in the mammalian gut, have recently garnered much interest. Yet there is still no standardized protocol for extracting viruses from such samples, and the protocols that exist employ procedures that skew the viral [...] Read more.
Studies into the viral fraction of complex microbial communities, like in the mammalian gut, have recently garnered much interest. Yet there is still no standardized protocol for extracting viruses from such samples, and the protocols that exist employ procedures that skew the viral community of the sample one way or another. The first step of the extraction pipeline often consists of the basic filtering of macromolecules and bacteria, yet even this affects the viruses in a strain-specific manner. In this study, we investigate a protocol for viral extraction based on ultrafiltration and how the choice of ultrafilter might influence the extracted viral community. Clinical samples (feces, vaginal swabs, and tracheal suction samples) were spiked with a mock community of known phages (T4, c2, Φ6, Φ29, Φx174, and Φ2972), filtered, and quantified using spot and plaque assays to estimate the loss in recovery. The enveloped Φ6 phage is especially severely affected by the choice of filter, but also tailed phages such as T4 and c2 have a reduced infectivity after ultrafiltration. We conclude that the pore size of ultrafilters may affect the recovery of phages in a strain- and sample-dependent manner, suggesting the need for greater thought when selecting filters for virus extraction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Viruses)
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17 pages, 4878 KiB  
Article
Morphological Characteristics of Genital Organ-Associated Lymphoid Tissue in the Vaginal Vestibule of Goats and Pigs
by Tsolmon Chuluunbaatar, Osamu Ichii, Md. Abdul Masum, Takashi Namba and Yasuhiro Kon
Vet. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci10010051 - 11 Jan 2023
Viewed by 5294
Abstract
Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a specialized form of peripheral lymphoid tissue (LT), which is found on mucosal surfaces exposed to the environment. However, morphological data of these tissues in farm animals are scarce. This study investigated the gross anatomical and histological features [...] Read more.
Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a specialized form of peripheral lymphoid tissue (LT), which is found on mucosal surfaces exposed to the environment. However, morphological data of these tissues in farm animals are scarce. This study investigated the gross anatomical and histological features of genital organ-associated lymphoid tissues (GOALTs) in the vaginal vestibule (VV) of healthy, non-pregnant, adult goats and pigs. Their VVs were composed of stratified squamous, non-keratinized epithelium, and various-sized dark-blue hematoxylin-positive spots were observed in whole-mount specimens, which were diffusely distributed throughout the mucosal surfaces. These spots were histologically identified as LTs and consisted of lymphatic nodules (LNs) or diffuse lymphoid tissue (DLTs). Both LNs and DLTs contained B cells, T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, plasma cells, and high endothelial venules. Only the numbers of B cells were significantly higher in both the LNs and DLTs of pigs compared to goats. Furthermore, the surface of the VV epithelium covering the LTs was partially disrupted with a large intercellular space containing abundant connective tissue fibers with numerous lymphocytes. In conclusion, GOALTs in the VV appear to be common local immunological barriers in both examined animals. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the structures and disorders of female reproductive organs in farm animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Anatomy, Histology and Pathology)
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9 pages, 246 KiB  
Article
Norethisterone Reduces Vaginal Bleeding Caused by Progesterone-Only Birth Control Pills
by Naama Vilk Ayalon, Lior Segev, Abraham O. Samson, Simcha Yagel, Sarah M. Cohen, Tamar Green and Hila Hochler
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(12), 3389; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11123389 - 13 Jun 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5343
Abstract
(1) Background: Progesterone-only pills (POP) are widely used contraceptives. About 40% of women taking these pills report vaginal bleeding/spotting; 25% find this a reason for cessation. To date, no effective remedy has been described. We aimed to examine the therapeutic approaches offered by [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Progesterone-only pills (POP) are widely used contraceptives. About 40% of women taking these pills report vaginal bleeding/spotting; 25% find this a reason for cessation. To date, no effective remedy has been described. We aimed to examine the therapeutic approaches offered by health providers. (2) Methods: A prospective questionnaire-based study of women experiencing vaginal bleeding due to POP, comparing the effectiveness of prescribed therapies. Women were recruited through social networks, and subsequently divided into groups according to the treatment offered: (1) POP with norethisterone (n = 36); (2) double dose POP (n = 19); (3) single dose POP (continuing initial treatment, n = 57); and (4) different POP formula (n = 8). Women rated bleeding quantity and frequency at four intervals, at weeks 0, 2, 4, and 6. (3) Results: Women who added 5 mg norethisterone acetate reported a significant decrease in bleeding frequency compared to the other groups, observed after 2, 4, and 6 weeks (p-values 0.019, 0.002, and 0.002, respectively). Women also reported an overall decrease in combined bleeding quantity and frequency (p-values 0.028, 0.003, and 0.005, respectively). There was no difference in the rate of side effects among groups. (4) Conclusions: Adding 5 mg norethisterone acetate (Primolut-nor) to progesterone-only pills significantly reduces bleeding and spotting associated with POP contraception. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Contraception)
10 pages, 1409 KiB  
Article
Extensive Study of Breast Milk and Infant Growth: Protocol of the Cambridge Baby Growth and Breastfeeding Study (CBGS-BF)
by Laurentya Olga, Clive J. Petry, Janna A. van Diepen, Philippa M. Prentice, Ieuan A. Hughes, Jacques Vervoort, Jos Boekhorst, Maciej Chichlowski, Gabriele Gross, David B. Dunger and Ken K. Ong
Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2879; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082879 - 21 Aug 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6279
Abstract
Growth and nutrition during early life have been strongly linked to future health and metabolic risks. The Cambridge Baby Growth Study (CBGS), a longitudinal birth cohort of 2229 mother–infant pairs, was set up in 2001 to investigate early life determinant factors of infant [...] Read more.
Growth and nutrition during early life have been strongly linked to future health and metabolic risks. The Cambridge Baby Growth Study (CBGS), a longitudinal birth cohort of 2229 mother–infant pairs, was set up in 2001 to investigate early life determinant factors of infant growth and body composition in the UK setting. To carry out extensive profiling of breastmilk intakes and composition in relation to infancy growth, the Cambridge Baby Growth and Breastfeeding Study (CBGS-BF) was established upon the original CBGS. The strict inclusion criteria were applied, focusing on a normal birth weight vaginally delivered infant cohort born of healthy and non-obese mothers. Crucially, only infants who were exclusively breastfed for the first 6 weeks of life were retained in the analysed study sample. At each visit from birth, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and then at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, longitudinal anthropometric measurements and blood spot collections were conducted. Infant body composition was assessed using air displacement plethysmography (ADP) at 6 weeks and 3 months of age. Breast milk was collected for macronutrients and human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) measurements. Breast milk intake volume was also estimated, as well as sterile breastmilk and infant stool collection for microbiome study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Nutrition)
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