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Purpose: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence, to evaluate the characteristics of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Greek women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to investigate the correlation of MetS with body mass index (BMI).Methods: In a prospective controlled study, 230 Greek female patients with PCOS and 155 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Diagnosis of PCOS was based on the revised criteria of Rotterdam. Both groups were examined for MetS. Diagnosis of MetS was based on the revised criteria of International Diabetes Federation (IDF).Results: The prevalence of the MetS was 12.6 %, nearly sevenfold higher than the controls. Elevated fasting plasma glucose (7.0 vs. 1.9 %) and elevated triglycerides (10.4 vs. 3.2 %) were more frequent in the PCOS cohort (p < 0.05). Women with PCOS presented statistically higher BMI in comparison with the controls (p < 0.001). Subsequently, the prevalence of MetS was estimated in three groups: normal, overweight and obese subdivided according to BMI. The latter two groups showed significant differences compared with the healthy controls (24.5 vs. 8.8 %, p = 0.050).Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed high prevalence of MetS and increased BMI in Greek PCOS women. In addition, it demonstrated the higher prevalence of MetS in obese PCOS women in comparison with the controls. These results are placing them at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes in the future and underline the necessity of periodic screening, appropriate diet and exercise program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The presence of an endometrioma has been proposed to affect the ovarian function in a negative way. Our aim was to present the key evidence on multiple aspects of endometriomas' management in subfertile couples scheduled for assisted reproduction technologies (ART). Materials and Methods: A critical review of the existing literature was performed focusing on the need of endometrioma treatment prior to ART, the relevant options, the potentially participating surgeon's characteristics and the socioeconomic perspective. Results: To date, we have no definitive data to suggest whether the damage to the ovaries observed in women with endometriomas may be related to the mere presence of the cyst, the surgical procedure to remove it, the combination of the two, or factors currently unknown. Moreover, there is no conclusive evidence that, for subfertile couples, removal of endometriomas increases the chance of having a baby. The uncertainty regarding the best treatment strategy and factors such as the limited number of tertiary centers for laparoscopic surgery throughout the world seems to further complicate the decision. Conclusions: Until research addresses the current 'grey areas', the management of endometriomas in patients undergoing ART should be individualized and take into consideration numerous parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Mild ovarian stimulation has been conceived, proposed and implemented in clinical practice as a safer and cheaper alternative to conventional strategies of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in preparation for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Our aim was to summarize the key evidence on this topic and explore its possible role as the standard treatment option for women undergoing IVF. Materials and Methods: A short narrative review of the existing literature, with emphasis on mild ovarian stimulation clinical and cost effectiveness, as well as treatment limitations. Results: Numerous studies highlight mild ovarian stimulation's favorable characteristics with respect to oocyte/embryo quality, reduced patient risk, and ease of intervention. There is, however, a need for high-quality laboratory environment. Limitations regarding poor responders, older women, or those seeking ovarian stimulation for non-infertility indications should also be considered. Finally, outcomes on the cumulative success rates and the cost effectiveness of mild ovarian stimulation remain inconclusive. Conclusion: Mild ovarian stimulation protocols for IVF should currently be implemented only in carefully selected populations. Further research is needed to clarify the remaining controversies in this IVF approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the feasibility of office hysteroscopy through the no-touch 'see and treat technique' in a routine basis in private practice. Methods: In the private practice of two trained gynecologists, women with an indication for further investigation of the uterine cavity were treated with the technique. A total of 112 consecutive women were prospectively allocated to a 'no-touch' and 'see and treat' technique of hysteroscopy. Neither anaesthesia nor analgesia was used as soon as criteria were met. Hysteroscopy was performed using a rigid 3.4-mm hysteroscope and a medium of 0.9% saline. Results: Treatment efficacy and patient compliance were evaluated through scores on a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, complications and success rates, along with the symphony between hysteroscopic findings and histology. The patients' pain score on the VAS was low and only in 2 out of 112 cases there was a marked discomfort. In four cases suggested treatment was not successful, because of the fear of the patient. In 60.71% of cases that hysteroscopy was indicated, the uterine cavity was normal. No complications or adverse effects were noted. Apart from one case, there was a full agreement between hysteroscopic findings and histology. Conclusion: Office hysteroscopy is a successful and well-tolerated procedure. Through adequate expertise it should be considered the method of choice in private basis, at the same time when exploration of the uterine cavity is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]