A novel model of care for fertility preservation has been demonstrated in Canada, as detailed in a paper in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The model involves coordinated care between a Toronto fertility team and local physicians, successfully preserving ovarian tissue for a young woman undergoing chemotherapy. This "hub-and-spoke" approach could improve access to fertility preservation for cancer patients, researchers say.

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that self-hypnosis was associated with a 53% reduction in hot flashes for menopausal women, compared with a 41% decrease in a control group that listened to an audio file of white noise. "It can be practiced at home ... and it is relatively inexpensive compared to in-person sessions," said lead researcher Gary Elkins.

A Swedish study in JAMA Oncology involving more than 2 million women has found that hormonal contraception is generally safe, although there is a slight short-term increase in breast cancer risk among current or recent users. The study notes that the increased risk varies depending on the type of progestin used but remains modest overall. Physicians emphasize the importance of personalized contraceptive counseling and stress that the benefits of hormonal birth control outweigh the risks.

A study presented at a meeting of the Obesity Society found that tirzepatide was effective in promoting weight loss for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with over 90% losing at least 10% of their body weight within 10 months. The study involved 4,241 women who used a digital weight loss service.

20% of clinically healthy women can experience vaginal dysbiosis. New Her Florastor is a scientifically validated daily oral probiotic formulated for women's health. It's clinically shown to significantly increase Lactobacilli species in the vagina in as little as 7 days. Plus, it contains L-theanine – for fast-acting, clinically tested stress relief – and an evidence-based bacterial probiotic blend for digestive regularity. Her Florastor – for more relief and less stress.
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The US received a D+ for its 10.4% preterm birth rate for the fourth consecutive year, according to a March of Dimes report. The report highlighted significant disparities, with a 9.5% preterm birth rate for babies born to white mothers, compared with 14.7% for babies born to Black mothers. Data showed improved preterm birth rate percentages in 19 states, while the numbers worsened in 21 states, according to the CDC.

A research letter published in JAMA Network Open found an 11.5-fold increase in early measles, mumps and rubella vaccinations in Texas during this year's measles outbreak, with 20% of first doses given to children ages 6 to 11 months. The CDC recommended early MMR vaccination for infants in affected areas. "Routine well-child visits likely provided valuable opportunities to implement early vaccination recommendations, demonstrating how established care patterns can be used to rapidly increase community protection," said study co-author Brianna Goodwin Cartwright.

The American Medical Association is debating whether to form its own vaccine advisory committee or to push for the reinstatement of the original Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which was disbanded by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Some members support the creation of a new committee to provide evidence-based vaccine guidance, while others cite cost and conflict of interest concerns, urging the AMA to focus on restoring the original committee.

The March of Dimes recently endorsed the recommendation of low-dose aspirin for pregnant women, especially in practices where most patients are at an increased risk of pre-eclampsia. The report highlights aspirin's role in reducing pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and perinatal mortality.

A botulism outbreak linked to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula has reached 23 cases across 13 states, with all infants hospitalized, according to the CDC and FDA. The outbreak has prompted ByHeart to expand a recall to all infant formula products. No fatalities have been reported.