INTRODUCTION: This study examined serum prolactin and reproductive hormone levels in women with elevated prolactin levels, with a particular focus on fertility status. The objective was to understand how prolactin affects reproductive hormones in infertile women, aiming to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
METHODS: The study involved 847 women aged 18–46 years who visited gynecology outpatient clinics between January and October 2019. Participants with prolactin levels ≥26 μg/L underwent hormone testing on the second or third day of menstruation. Patients were categorized based on fertility status and prolactin levels, specifically into groups of 26–100 μg/L and >100 μg/L. Demographics, symptoms, medical history, and hormone profiles were analyzed using NCSS 2007 software, employing descriptive methods, the chi-squared test, and Spearman’s correlation.
RESULTS: A statistically significant yet very weak negative correlation was identified between prolactin and estradiol levels in patients with moderate hyperprolactinemia (26–100 μg/L), as well as in both infertile and non-infertile subgroups. No significant associations were found between prolactin and gonadotropins (FSH=folliclestimulating hormone, LH=luteinizing hormone) or progesterone, regardless of prolactin level or fertility status. In patients with highly elevated prolactin levels (≥100 μg/L), no statistically significant correlation was observed between prolactin levels and any measured reproductive hormone levels.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This cross-sectional study provides insights into the hormonal interplay in hyperprolactinemia, showing that serum prolactin levels are weakly correlated with estradiol levels and are not significantly associated with gonadotropin levels in clinical settings. These findings suggest that prolactin may impair reproductive function through indirect mechanisms not captured by static hormone measurements. Future research should incorporate longitudinal designs and clinical outcomes to further elucidate the relationship between prolactin and reproductive function.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to examine the impact of COVID-19 pandemic-related anxiety and obsessive thoughts on parenting behaviors during the postpartum period.
METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional design was employed, including 300 postpartum women, to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic anxiety and obsession on parenting behaviors. Data were collected between June and December 2020 at a tertiary hospital in the Marmara region of Türkiye. Instruments included a sociodemographic information form, the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS), the Obsession with COVID-19 Scale (OCS), and the Postpartum Parenting Behavior Scale (PPBS).
RESULTS: Participants’ mean age was 29.3±5.8 years, with an average marriage duration of 6.9±5.3 years. Over half (58%) reported that giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative psychological impact. Statistical analyses revealed a significant interaction effect between CAS and OCS on PPBS scores (p=0.015).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that postpartum parenting behaviors are shaped by the complex interaction between COVID-19-related anxiety and obsessive thoughts. These psychological constructs should be understood not as isolated factors but as interrelated processes that collectively influence maternal behavioral outcomes during the postpartum period. To better understand these dynamics, future studies employing longitudinal and intervention-based designs are recommended to reveal causal pathways and underlying mechanisms. In addition, even in the post-pandemic context, the development and implementation of targeted mental health interventions for postpartum women remain essential public health priorities.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) without insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MS).
METHODS: This retrospective study involved 90 patients aged 18–35 years who applied to a tertiary clinic between March 2022 and December 2023. A total of 45 PCOS patients without IR and MS and 45 healthy women were enrolled in the study. All participants underwent medical history review, clinical physical examination, gynecological ultrasonographic evaluation, and laboratory testing. Laboratory screening tests included measurements of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone (T), free testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is a cardiovascular risk factor. Normal insulin sensitivity was defined on the basis of fasting serum glucose, fasting insulin level, serum insulin response to the oral glucose tolerance test, and the homeostatic model of insulin resistance. hsCRP levels were evaluated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.
RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, FSH, LH, free T, total T, DHEAS, or SHBG. PCOS patients had increased hsCRP, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), and LDL levels compared to the control group. hsCRP was positively correlated with WHR, BMI, and LDL. A strong correlation was found between hsCRP and PCOS.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Elevated hsCRP is associated with cardiovascular risk factors in PCOS patients without IR and MS.

INTRODUCTION: The risk of gestational diabetes mellitus increases in women with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. Assessing quantitative physical activity in pregnant women with diabetes can help us better understand disease management. We report the characteristics of pregnant women who were screened and diagnosed with gestational diabetes, as well as the results of the Turkish version of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire.
METHODS: A total of 292 pregnant women who completed the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire and underwent gestational diabetes screening were included in the study. Demographic characteristics, total and subscale scores of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire were compared between women with positive and negative gestational diabetes mellitus screening and diagnostic test results.
RESULTS: Total activity and subscale scores of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire were similar between groups with positive and negative gestational diabetes mellitus screening and diagnostic test results. Age, weight, and body mass index differed significantly between groups (p=0.001, p=0.006, and p=0.001, respectively). Logistic multivariate binary analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between total activity and subscale scores.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Physical activity scores obtained from the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, reflecting a 3-month period, were similar in cases with positive and negative gestational diabetes mellitus screening and diagnostic test results. Pregnant women should be encouraged to engage in more physical activity, as the frequency of gestational diabetes mellitus increases with age, body weight, body mass index, and number of pregnancies.

INTRODUCTION: Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal and fetal-neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The timing of onset–whether early (<34 weeks) or late (≥34 weeks)–may influence both maternal and perinatal outcomes. This retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical and perinatal outcomes of early- versus late-onset preeclampsia in singleton pregnancies.
METHODS: Medical records of 193 women with singleton pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia were retrospectively analyzed at a tertiary referral center between January 2013 and January 2014. Patients were categorized into early-onset (24–34 weeks) and late-onset (≥34 weeks) groups. Maternal demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory parameters, obstetric complications, and neonatal outcomes (birth weight, Apgar scores, NICU admission, cord blood pH) were compared.
RESULTS: Early-onset preeclampsia was associated with significantly higher AST, ALT, LDH, proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hypoproteinemia, magnesium sulfate therapy, cesarean delivery, oligohydramnios, fetal growth restriction, maternal complications, and NICU admissions. Compared with neonates in the late-onset preeclampsia group, those born to mothers with early-onset disease had significantly lower birth weights, reduced Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes, and more acidotic cord blood gases.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Early-onset preeclampsia represents a more severe form of the disease, characterized by higher maternal morbidity and adverse neonatal outcomes. The 34-week threshold appears to be a critical determinant of prognosis, with longer gestation positively influencing neonatal survival and health. Early detection, close monitoring, and timely delivery remain key strategies for improving maternal and perinatal outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate the psychological and biochemical differences between pregnant women diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and healthy pregnant controls.
METHODS: A prospective case-control study was conducted between December 2024 and June 2025 at Sirnak State Hospital. A total of 100 pregnant women under 16 weeks of gestation were included, with 50 diagnosed with HG and 50 healthy controls. Sociodemographic characteristics, routine laboratory parameters (Hb, AST, TSH, etc.), and psychological symptoms were assessed. Psychological evaluation was performed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Participants with known systemic or psychiatric disorders were excluded.
RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, BMI, gravidity, or parity (p>0.05). HG patients had significantly lower hemoglobin and TSH levels and higher AST values (p<0.05). Depression and anxiety scores were also significantly higher in the HG group compared to controls (p=0.000 for both). These findings indicate both physiological and psychological alterations in HG cases.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: HG is associated with significant increases in anxiety and depression levels, as well as biochemical disturbances, particularly in hemoglobin, AST, and TSH values. These results suggest that HG may not only be a physical condition but also involve notable psychological distress. Multidisciplinary care, including psychiatric support, should be considered in HG management.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine the genital hygiene behaviors of women with and without vaginitis, as well as the factors influencing these behaviors.
METHODS: This comparative descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024 with a total of 188 women–94 diagnosed with vaginitis and 94 without a diagnosis of vaginitis—who attended the Gynecology Outpatient Clinic. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the Descriptive Information Form and the Genital Hygiene Behavior Scale. Ethics committee approval, institutional authorization, and written consent from all participants were obtained.
RESULTS: The numbers of pregnancies, deliveries, miscarriages, and curettages were higher in women with vaginitis compared to those without vaginitis (p<0.05). Women without vaginitis had significantly greater knowledge about genital tract infections (p<0.05). Women with vaginitis scored significantly lower on the menstrual hygiene subscale of the Genital Hygiene Behavior Scale compared to those without vaginitis (p<0.05). In the multivariate analysis, age, duration of menstruation, and frequency of sexual intercourse were identified as determinant factors for genital hygiene behaviors in women with vaginitis.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study shows that women, both with and without vaginitis, exhibit high genital hygiene behaviors. However, significant differences were observed between the two groups, with women without vaginitis demonstrating better hygiene practices.

INTRODUCTION: Emergency departments are crucial components of healthcare systems, providing rapid and effective medical services. However, unnecessary emergency visits lead to inefficiencies in resource allocation and service delivery. Pregnancy often alters women’s health perceptions, increasing emergency department visits. This study aimed to evaluate the urgency of visits to the gynecology and obstetrics emergency department and analyze the impact of pregnancy on emergency service utilization.
METHODS: This retrospective, cross-sectional study analyzed the reasons for admission, demographic characteristics, and hospitalization rates of patients who visited the Zeynep Kamil Women and Children Diseases Training and Research Hospital between 2013 and 2023. Data were collected from the hospital automation system, categorized using ICD-10 codes, and statistically analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 software.
RESULTS: A total of 174,790 emergency visits were recorded, with 69.76% involving pregnant patients. Among pregnant patients, 26.04% required hospitalization, whereas the hospitalization rate for non-pregnant patients was 8.23%. The most common reasons for emergency visits included pregnancy-related conditions (O26.8, O26.9) and pregnancy status (Z33, Z32.0). The analysis of emergency visit trends revealed a decline in 2019–2020, followed by an increase after 2021.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that gynecology and obstetrics emergency services are predominantly utilized for pregnancy-related concerns, with some visits being unnecessary. To optimize emergency department efficiency, patient education, improved outpatient services, and enhanced triage systems are recommended. Future multicenter studies should explore patient motivations and long-term health outcomes. The study recommends improving emergency service efficiency through patient education, better outpatient access, and effective triage implementation.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the relationship between proteinuria levels and maternal and neonatal outcomes.
METHODS: This study retrospectively evaluated a total of 2,266 pregnant women who received follow-up care and delivered at our hospital between January 2018 and 2024. Of these, 76 patients who exhibited proteinuria during pregnancy were included in the analysis. We assessed demographic, laboratory, and obstetric data for all participants, including age, smoking status, gravida, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, platelet count, 24-hour proteinuria values, gestational hypertension (GHT), fetal growth restriction (FGR), preeclampsia, preterm birth (PTB), Apgar scores, and birth weight.
RESULTS: The severe group had significantly higher rates of gestational hypertension (GHT), preeclampsia, preterm birth (PTB), and fetal growth restriction (FGR) compared with the other groups (p<0.001 for all). Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were lower, and birth weight was significantly reduced in the severe group (p<0.001). The rate of NICU admissions was also higher in the severe group (p<0.001).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study shows that severe proteinuria is associated with hypertensive diseases, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and neonatal complications. Close monitoring of pregnant women with proteinuria and early intervention may play an important role in reducing possible complications. Evaluation of proteinuria levels together with maternal and fetal risk factors may optimize clinical management to improve pregnancy outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Esophageal atresia (EA) is the most common esophageal anomaly associated with respiratory morbidity in childhood. This study aimed to evaluate respiratory problems in children who underwent surgery for esophageal atresia.
METHODS: A total of 33 cases with EA were included in the patient group, and 20 cases diagnosed with isolated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were included in the control group. This case-control study also included observational and analytical evaluations. Respiratory symptoms and findings were recorded. Spirometry was performed to assess lung function, and laboratory tests indicating an allergic condition were examined.
RESULTS: In the patient group with a median age of 4.7 years (IQR: 6.7), 84.8% had recurrent or chronic cough, 51.5% had wheezing, 63.6% had a history of respiratory distress in the past year, 24.2% had recurrent pneumonia, and 63.6% had a history of hospitalization due to respiratory problems at least once. Aspiration pneumonia was present in 27.2% of patients, asthma diagnosed by a physician in 33.3%, and tracheomalacia in 18.1%. Asthma, cough, and wheezing were observed at similar rates in both groups, while aspiration pneumonia and hospitalization due to respiratory problems were more common in the patient group. Pulmonary function test (PFT) abnormalities were significantly more common in the EA group compared with the control group (p<0.001).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Respiratory problems in EA are based on structural and functional causes and are quite widespread. We emphasize the importance of conducting research using more detailed respiratory tests in larger patient series to obtain clearer data.