Efficacious treatments of PMS: a need for further research

Article Abstract:

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), experienced by as few as 3 percent, and as many as 15 percent, of women (according to various published reports), has yet to emerge as a well-defined entity. An effective, reliable treatment for PMS has not been developed. At a time when public awareness has focused on PMS more than ever before, women also face opposing pressures to deemphasize their 'raging hormonal imbalances' in other contexts. The latest revision of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders does not identify PMS, but includes a category called 'late luteal phase dysphoric disorder', which does not receive an official designation. Progesterone, a female hormone, has been in wide use for treating PMS, but several studies have failed to demonstrate its effectiveness. These used small groups of women, however. An article in the July 18, 1990 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association reports on a carefully controlled study of a large number of women with PMS. The subjects used either progesterone or a placebo (inactive) drug in vaginal suppository form, and no differences were found between the groups in their PMS symptoms. Thus, it appears that progesterone suppositories are not useful in this disorder. Research on PMS is hindered by the fact that half the patients in the study groups often drop out, or need no additional treatment after the study's end. Further research is needed to better evaluate possible therapeutic options for PMS sufferers. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Progesterone, Premenstrual syndrome, editorial

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The Continuing Need for Late Abortions

Article Abstract:

Late abortion should be an option for women that is free of governmental interference. Late abortion is one performed late in the second trimester, at week 21 or later. It has been in the news because Congress has considered banning a technique called partial-birth abortion, which is often done late in the pregnancy. This may be the only option for many women, particularly the young and disadvantaged. Early abortion is of course preferable, but until the barriers to early abortion are removed, late abortion should be an option.

Ethical aspects, Abortion

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Interventional radiological treatments tested

Article Abstract:

Several techniques involving minimally invasive surgery guided by X-rays and CT scans are under investigation. Patches can be guided to the site of a ruptured aortic aneurysm and held in place by a small cylindrical device called a stent. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt has been tried in patients with esophageal bleeding. Infected spinal disks can also be removed under fluoroscopic guidance. Embolizing agents can be used to stop bleeding in various organs, including the spleen and uterus.

Innovations, Injuries, Infection, Vertebrae, Uterine fibroids, Esophageal varices, Aortic aneurysms, Aortic aneurysm, Radiology, Interventional, Interventional radiography

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