WOMENS HEALTH

Research reported by Reuters on 16 October found that ovaries may continue to undergo biological changes for decades after menopause, including changes in tissue structure and inflammation-related proteins. The findings may help researchers investigate ovarian ageing and its relationship with disease.

Research reported on 16 October 2026 identified gaps in endometriosis guidelines worldwide, including limited representation of adolescents, gender-diverse people, and individuals with lived experience of the condition. The findings suggest that clinical guidance may not consistently address the needs of all patients. Greater international coordination could help improve recognition, diagnosis, treatment decisions, and long-term support.

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory reported a potential link between certain autoantibodies and preterm birth. The study, reported on 13 October 2026 by the University of California, San Francisco, explores whether immune responses during pregnancy could help explain why some women enter labour too early. The findings may provide a direction for future research into identifying high-risk pregnancies, but they do not establish a routine screening test or a proven method for preventing preterm birth.

A study reported on 13 October 2026 found that extending Medicaid coverage to 12 months after childbirth increased postpartum healthcare utilization among women who had experienced high-risk pregnancy complications, including diabetes and hypertension. The findings emphasize that medical care after delivery can be important for identifying persistent health problems and managing conditions that may increase long-term cardiovascular and metabolic risks. Penn Medicine

Preliminary research suggests that women with bipolar disorder who have regular menstrual cycles may be more likely to report severe premenstrual symptoms than women with irregular cycles. The findings raise questions about whether menstrual patterns influence the recognition and management of symptoms.

A new women's-health report examines secondary infertility, a condition in which a person has difficulty conceiving or carrying another pregnancy after previously having a child. Potential factors include age-related changes, ovulation problems and reproductive health conditions.

The FDA has announced that its safety review of mifepristone will continue into 2027, with a safety study expected to be completed later this year and findings planned for publication in 2027.

A new women's-health report published on October 7 highlights the importance of prompt follow-up after an abnormal mammogram. Most abnormal screening results are ultimately found to be benign, but additional testing is necessary to determine whether a suspicious finding requires treatment.

A new survey involving approximately 200 Indian maternal-health professionals highlights concerns about the effects of extreme heat on pregnant women and newborns, alongside research examining associations between heat exposure and pregnancy outcomes.

A recent analysis found that only about 12% of electronic medical records mentioned menopause even though more than half of women separately reported experiencing the transition.

The World Health Organization emphasizes updated ferritin thresholds and comprehensive psychological screening throughout the fourth trimester to combat postpartum depression.

On the occasion of the World Health Day 2025 dedicated to the theme of Healthier beginnings, hopeful futures, over 100 global WHO offices have organized wide-ranging public advocacy actions in collaboration with Member...