Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology : the journal of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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The objective of this prospective cohort study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided high-intensity focussed ultrasound (HIFU) in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Twenty premenopausal women with symptomatic fibroids underwent ultrasound-guided HIFU therapy. Twenty-two fibroids with a median baseline volume of 127.0 cm3 (range 18.5-481.2 cm3) were treated. ⋯ What do the results of this study add? This preliminary report adds to our limited local experience on HIFU and provides reassurance on our continual utilisation of this treatment modality for fibroids. With the increasing demand of uterine-sparing alternatives, experiences shared among different countries are important to make this treatment modality generalisable and universally acceptable. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research?Ultrasound-guided HIFU (USgHIFU) can potential be offered as an alternative treatment modality for women with fibroids.
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The aims of this study were to determine prevalence of childbirth fear among uncomplicated pregnant women in Siriraj Hospital and possible associated factors. A total of 305 uncomplicated, singleton pregnant women were enrolled during early third trimester. All participants were interviewed regarding baseline demographic, social, economic, family, and obstetric characteristics. ⋯ What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Future researches are suggested to explore and understand more about social and cultural factors associated with FOC. Identification of women with high or severe degree of FOC could help in preparing the women at risk before or during pregnancy to lessen FOC in order to improve their childbirth experiences. In addition, effective interventions to reduce FOC should be developed, evaluated, and implemented in the future.
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Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a potentially life-threatening condition. Women undergoing caesarean section (CS) are at particular risk, and improvements in the management of PPH during CS are required. We investigated the use of a tissue hardness metre to quantify uterine contractions during CS with a view to its application for obstetric bleeding management. ⋯ The hardness metre was able to quantify the degree of uterine contraction perceived by obstetricians. Quantifying uterine hardness during CS correlates with the amount of intra-operative bleeding and is useful for early recognition of massive haemorrhage. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? To improve the management of atonic PPH and avoid serious complications, the tissue hardness metre should be considered as a potential clinical tool during CS.