Advances in Obstetrics and Gynecology Research

Podocyte Injury in Preeclampsia: Mechanisms and Therapies

Ying Wang — 2025-07-08

Pre-eclampsia is still one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting multiple organ systems. Despite extensive research, its underlying etiology remains unclear. Proteinuria is a hallmark of a diagnosis of preeclampsia and is usually accompanied by podocyte damage, which is changes in the structure and function of the podocytes. Recent technological advances have identified a critical role for podocytes in the loss of renal filtration function in preeclampsia. However, the molecular mechanisms leading to proteinuria and podocyte damage in preeclampsia are unknown, which leads to a lack of targeted therapy. Recent years have witnessed challenges the traditional view, that kidney damage in preeclampsia is caused only by glomerular endothelial cell injury. Similarly, podocytes were identified as key players in the pathogenesis of proteinuria in preeclampsia. In this review, we review the mechanisms of renal injury (especially podocytes) in preeclampsia to elucidate the relevance of podocyte injury to proteinuria and suggest specific therapeutic strategies for proteinuria in preeclampsia.

Clinical Observation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Foot Bath Combined with Analgesic Pump on Post-Cesarean Section Pain and Recovery of Lower Limb Circulation

Ying Wang — 2025-07-08

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) foot bath combined with postoperative analgesic pump on post-cesarean section pain and recovery of lower limb circulation. Methods: A total of 500 puerperas who underwent cesarean section in our hospital from January 2023 to December 2023 were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group (234 cases) and a control group (266 cases). The control group received conventional postoperative electronic analgesic pump (sufentanil + ondansetron + dezocine) for continuous analgesia, while the experimental group received additional TCM foot bath treatment based on the control group’s regimen. The postoperative pain level (NRS score), analgesic pump drug usage, time of first ambulation, and lower limb swelling rate were observed in both groups. Results: The NRS scores at 24h and 48h postoperatively in the experimental group (2.03 ± 0.54, 0.91 ± 0.27) were significantly lower than those in the control group (3.45 ± 0.71, 1.85 ± 0.49) (P < 0.001). The total drug usage of the analgesic pump in the experimental group was reduced by 28.6%, and the time of first ambulation was advanced to (12.2 ± 1.9) h, which was better than that of the control group (15.7 ± 2.3) h (P < 0.001). The incidence of lower limb swelling in the experimental group (6.8%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (18.4%) (P < 0.001). Conclusion: TCM foot bath combined with an analgesic pump can synergistically relieve post-cesarean section pain, reduce the demand for analgesic drugs, promote lower limb blood circulation and early ambulation, with significant clinical effects.

Progress in Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Treatment for Threatened Abortion with Subchorionic Hematoma due to Kidney Deficiency and Blood Stasis

Xiangxiang Dai — 2025-07-08

Subchorionic hematoma (SCH) is a common complication in early pregnancy, which may increase the risks of miscarriage, preterm birth, and placental abruption. With its relatively high incidence in recent years, early detection and timely treatment are crucial for improving adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with threatened abortion complicated by SCH. Although there is currently insufficient evidence-based medical support for SCH treatment, significant clinical experience has been accumulated. Both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine have their respective advantages and have achieved notable results. This article reviews the progress in integrated TCM and Western medicine treatment for threatened abortion with SCH, aiming to provide references for future clinical prevention and treatment of this condition.

Progress in Clinical Research of Early Pregnancy Chorionic Hematoma in Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine

Ruizhu Wen — 2025-07-08

Subchorionic hematoma is a common cause of vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, closely related to adverse outcomes such as miscarriage and premature birth. Its onset involves multiple factors such as coagulation abnormalities, immune imbalance, and placental vascular rupture. Western medicine mainly relies on progesterone supplementation and anticoagulant therapy, while traditional Chinese medicine improves the maternal and fetal environment through overall adjustments such as tonifying the kidneys, promoting blood circulation, and stabilizing the fetus. The combination of the two has synergistic advantages in regulating immunity, improving coagulation, and increasing the success rate of fetal preservation. However, existing research has problems such as a lack of standardization in syndrome differentiation and insufficient evidence of long-term efficacy, and there is an urgent need to integrate clinical evidence to optimize diagnosis and treatment strategies. This article provides a systematic review of the etiology, mechanism, and treatment progress of SCH in both traditional Chinese and Western medicine. It emphasizes the potential of combining traditional Chinese and Western medicine to reduce hematoma and improve pregnancy outcomes through the synergistic use of compounds such as progesterone, low molecular weight heparin, and Shou Tai Wan. The purpose of writing this review is to sort out controversies, propose the need for future multi-center large sample studies, establish a biomarker-based syndrome differentiation system, and develop targeted anticoagulant and immunomodulatory Chinese and Western compound preparations. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation, we aim to promote the standardized and precise development of SCH diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving the health level of mothers and infants.

Research Progress on Subchorionic Hematoma in Clinical Studies

Xin Guan — 2025-07-08

Subchorionic hematoma (SCH), a common cause of vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, is frequently associated with threatened abortion and preterm labor. It is primarily detected via ultrasonography, with reported incidence rates varying widely across studies (approximately 0.46–48%). With the accelerated pace of modern life, increasing stress, occupational factors, and emotional influences, the prevalence of SCH has risen significantly. The widespread adoption of ultrasound technology has also led to a growing number of asymptomatic SCH cases. Furthermore, the implementation of China’s three-child policy and the rising proportion of pregnancies at advanced maternal age pose additional challenges for the clinical management of SCH. This article systematically reviews the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, pregnancy outcomes, and therapeutic advances in SCH from both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine perspectives, aiming to provide evidence-based insights for clinical research and personalized treatment strategies.

Progress in the Induction of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus by Environmental Exposure to the Novel Flame Retardant Triphenyl Phosphate during Pregnancy

Mayire Rexiati — 2025-07-08

Introduction: Triphenyl phosphates, or TPhPs, are a family of newly discovered pollutants that contaminate the environment, endanger ecological safety, and cause health problems for people when they linger in the surrounding environment for extended periods of time. Methods: This study reviewed the state of the research on the environmental distribution of TPhP, the amount of TPhP exposure during pregnancy, the relationship between TPhP exposure and gestational diabetes mellitus, the possible mechanism by which TPhP exposure during pregnancy causes gestational diabetes mellitus, and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in the offspring as a result of TPhP exposure during pregnancy. Results: During pregnancy, if pregnant women come into contact with TPhP, which is widely used in various industrial products, it is highly likely to disrupt the body’s metabolic balance, have a significant impact on the induction of gestational diabetes mellitus, and increase the health risks for both the mother and the baby. Discussion: These findings provide critical insights for risk assessment and prevention strategies targeting gestational TPhP exposure. Significance: What is already known about this subject? TPhP is a pollutant that is harmful to people’s health. When pregnant women are exposed to TPhP for a long time, their chances of developing gestational diabetes increase. What does this study add? This paper systematically summarizes the effects and mechanisms of TPhP on pregnant women, and provides theoretical support and factual basis for the research on TPhP and gestational diabetes.

Mechanistic Study of Acupuncture in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Insights from the Gut-Ovary Axis

Hui Zhang — 2025-07-08

Gut microbiota dysbiosis can induce chronic low-grade inflammation and disrupt metabolic homeostasis and intestinal barrier function, thereby impairing ovarian function and contributing to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Acupuncture, as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy, has been shown to regulate the gut microbiota and modulate multiple cytokines, thereby exerting beneficial effects on ovarian function. Guided by the TCM theories of organs and meridian systems, this study integrates the physiological and pathological correlations between the spleen-stomach-intestine system and the ovary, along with the interconnections of meridians. Taking the gut-ovary axis mediated by intestinal microbiota as a key link, we aim to elucidate the mechanism by which acupuncture improves PCOS by modulating gut microbiota. Acupoint selection is based on the principle of restoring intestinal microbial balance, providing a novel approach to the clinical diagnosis and treatment of PCOS from the perspective of the gut-ovary axis.

Advances in Anticoagulation Therapy for Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review

Qinqin Ren — 2025-07-08

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem pregnancy disorder. Several pathological processes, such as vascular endothelial dysfunction, an imbalance between coagulation and anticoagulation, and changes in trophoblast characteristics, are involved in the development of PE. The article discusses the pathogenesis of PE. In the third trimester, a protective hypercoagulable state typically develops in normal pregnancies. However, in PE, this state is exacerbated, resulting in a thrombotic phenotype characterized by a systemic inflammatory response and activation of the clotting cascade. This article examines the potential mechanisms involved. The present treatment emphasizes the timely delivery of the fetus. The investigation of anticoagulant therapies is still ongoing, mainly focusing on aspirin and the use of low-molecular-weight heparin for drug-induced thrombosis prevention. In this review, we will summarize the recent findings of reported and ongoing anticoagulation therapy in the treatment of PE. This anticoagulant treatment strategy is essential for the improvement and prevention of PE.

Clinical Analysis of Premature Rupture of Membranes in Late Pregnancy and the Risk of Maternal and Neonatal Infections

Yanpu Chen — 2025-07-08

Objective: To explore the relationship between premature rupture of membranes (PROM) in late pregnancy and diseases related to maternal and neonatal infections. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 300 cases of PROM puerperas (Group A) and 200 cases of normal delivery puerperas (Group B) who gave birth at Datong Fifth People’s Hospital from January 2021 to December 2023. The amniotic fluid contamination, placental pathology, maternal and neonatal infection indicators, and the incidence of perinatal infectious diseases were compared between the two groups. Results: The degree of amniotic fluid contamination in the PROM group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.01), but the incidence of bloody amniotic fluid was higher (P < 0.05). The infiltration rate of inflammatory cells in the placenta was significantly higher in Group A than in Group B (P < 0.01). In Group A, the white blood cell count, neutrophil percentage, and procalcitonin levels of the puerperas were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The incidence of intra-amniotic infection, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, and meconium aspiration syndrome was higher in Group A (P < 0.05). The white blood cell count and neutrophil indicators of neonates were significantly elevated in Group A. Conclusion: Premature rupture of membranes in late pregnancy significantly increases the risk of maternal and neonatal infections. Joint monitoring of multiple laboratory indicators and rational use of antibiotics are important for improving outcomes.

Clinical Effect of HPV-DNA Typing Detection Combined with TCT in Cervical Cancer Screening

Duo He — 2025-07-08

Objective: To explore the importance of combined diagnosis (TCT+HPV-DNA) in cervical cancer screening for diagnosis and treatment. Methods: From March 2024 to December 2024, 35 cases were diagnosed as positive by the gold standard (colposcopy biopsy), and then screened by TCT and HPV-DNA typing respectively, and the different results were analyzed. Results: Compared with TCT+HPV-DNA typing, the coincidence rate, specificity and sensitivity of TCT and HPV-DNA typing were significantly lower (P<0.05). Conclusion: Combined diagnosis (i.e. TCT+HPV-DNA typing test) in cervical cancer screening can ensure the accuracy of the results and prompt patients to obtain targeted treatment plans at an early stage.

Expression of CLDN18.2, CDX2, SATB2, and PAX8 in Primary and Gastrointestinal-Derived Mucinous Ovarian Carcinoma

Fujun Wang — 2025-07-11

Objective: Primary and metastatic mucinous ovarian carcinomas share similar morphologies but have significant differences in prognosis. This study aims to explore the immunophenotypic characteristics of primary and gastrointestinal-derived mucinous ovarian carcinomas. Methods: A total of 230 cases of primary and gastrointestinal-derived mucinous ovarian tumors surgically removed at Junnan County People’s Hospital and the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from 2014 to 2024 were randomly selected. These included 67 cases of primary mucinous ovarian carcinoma, 56 cases of primary borderline mucinous ovarian tumor, 61 cases of colorectal-derived mucinous ovarian carcinoma (including 26 cases from the appendix and 35 cases from the colorectum), 26 cases of gastric-derived mucinous ovarian carcinoma, and 20 cases of mucinous cystadenoma of the ovary. All specimens were reviewed and confirmed by two experienced pathologists according to the 2020 WHO classification criteria. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression differences of CLDN18.2 in primary mucinous ovarian tumors. Furthermore, the expressions of CLDN18.2, CDX2, SATB2, and PAX8 were jointly detected in primary and gastrointestinal metastatic mucinous ovarian tumors to explore the immunoexpression characteristics of multiple immune markers in primary ovarian and upper and lower gastrointestinal-derived ovarian metastatic mucinous carcinomas. Results: 1. CLDN18.2 showed varying degrees of expression in mucinous cystadenoma of the ovary, borderline mucinous ovarian tumor, and primary mucinous ovarian carcinoma, but was not expressed in normal ovarian and fallopian tube tissues. 2. In primary mucinous ovarian carcinoma, CLDN18.2 and PAX8 showed high expression, while CDX2 and SATB2 showed lower expression. In gastric-derived mucinous ovarian carcinoma, CLDN18.2 and CDX2 showed high expression, while SATB2 and PAX8 were almost not expressed. In colorectal-derived mucinous ovarian carcinoma, CDX2 and SATB2 showed high expression, while CLDN18.2 and PAX8 showed low expression. Conclusion: CLDN18.2 shows high expression in both primary and gastric-derived mucinous ovarian carcinomas and can be used as an auxiliary method for differentiating primary and gastrointestinal-derived mucinous ovarian carcinomas along with CDX2, SATB2, and PAX8.