Gynecology Blog

Preterm birth-meaning the birth of a baby before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy-is a serious health problem in the United States and the leading cause of newborn death. Babies who survive an early birth may face lifetime health challenges, such as breathing problems, vision and hearing problems, cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. Preterm birth is also estimated to cost the nation more than $26 billion per year in direct and indirect costs.

Though some medical conditions or problems may require an early delivery, preterm birth is often spontaneous. While the causes often are unknown, experts say first knowing if you're at risk and being familiar with the warning signs are key factors in helping to prevent this serious and potentially life-altering situation. More...

An Alberta gynecologist convicted of sexually assaulting four of his patients while they were receiving vaginal examinations had an appeal dismissed this week. Carl Christopher Nqumayo was convicted in February 2009 of four counts of sexual assault against patients while he was an obstetrician/gynecologist at the Thickwood Heights Family Medical Clinic. Nqumayo was found guilty of using his fingers to make an in-and-out motion in patients’ vaginas during examinations that went beyond the consent given to a doctor during an exam. More...

Repeat teen pregnancy is much lower than average among mothers who participate in the University of Kentucky’s Young Parents Program, according to a study. The study followed 1,386 teen mothers who took part in the program and showed that less than 1 percent had a repeat pregnancy within three years, compared with 18.7 percent of teen mothers statewide, according to a UK release Thursday. The study was published in the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology last year. More...