Dr. Chapa’s OBGYN Clinical Pearls

Brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP) levels originate from the cardiac cells in response to cardiac strain. This may come from a pulmonary embolus, an acute severe infection (sepsis), or cardiomyopathy. But what is the relationship between these 2 cardiac biomarkers and preeclampsia? Can preeclampsia with severe features result in an abnormal rise in these 2 proteins exclusive to heart failure. Listen in to this real case scenario which our on call team cared for. 1. Serum Levels of N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Gestational Hypertension, Mild Preeclampsia, and Severe Preeclampsia: A Study From a Center in Zhejiang Province, China. Zheng Z, Lin X, Cheng X. Medical Science Monitor: International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research. 2022;28:e934285. doi:10.12659/MSM.934285.2.Evaluation of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Levels in Normal and Preeclamptic Women. Resnik JL, Hong C, Resnik R, et al. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2005;193(2):450-4. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2004.12.006.3.Increased B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Levels in Early-Onset Versus Late-Onset Preeclampsia. Szabó G, Molvarec A, Nagy B, Rigó J. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. 2014;52(2):281-8. doi:10.1515/cclm-2013-0307.4. Association of N-Terminal Pro–Brain Natriuretic Peptide Concentration in Early Pregnancy With Development of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Future Hypertension.5. Hauspurg A, Marsh DJ, McNeil RB, et al. JAMA logoJAMA Cardiology. 2022;7(3):268-276. doi:10.1001/jamacardio.2021.5617.STRONG COFFEE PROMO: 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/CHAPANOSPINOBG

Explore the unique risks women face regarding strokes, with insights showing one in five women may experience one between ages 55 and 75. Delve into the safety of low-dose vaginal estradiol after a stroke, with findings suggesting no increased stroke risk. Learn about the nuances of hormone therapy and the importance of caution regarding study limitations. Experts weigh in on the implications for women's health and highlight the need for further research in this critical area.

Mastalgia is a common breast complaint in reproductive aged women. Mastalgia can be separated into three categories: 1) cyclical, 2) noncyclical, and 3) extramammary. Vitamin B6 is often cited as a homeopathic (non-prescription/pharmacological) remedy for simple mastalgia. Does the published data support its use? A newly published meta-analysis sheds light on the subject.1. Sharifipour, F., Siahkal, S.F. & Bagherinia, M. The effectiveness of vitamin B6 in reducing mastalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Women's Health 25, 421 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-025-03991-x2. ACOG PB 164; reaffirmed 2023

We are delaying today's program, as stated in this message. We will resume our program as soon as possible. Remembering Charlie Kirk.

We have a wonderful podacst community! Within 24 hours of our immediate past episode release, one close friend- and fellow OBGYN, Dr. Eric Colton (OB Hospitalist Group) reached out and shared valuable words of wisdom regarding a potentially deadly complication of the CS-scar defect...the CS scar ectopic pregnancy. Listen in for Dr. Colton's cameo and details. 1. Ban, Yanli MD, PhD; Shen, Jia MD; Wang, Xia MD; Zhang, Teng MD, PhD; Lu, Xuxu MD; Qu, Wenjie MD; Hao, Yiping MD; Mao, Zhonghao MD; Li, Shizhen MD; Tao, Guowei MD, PhD; Wang, Fang MD, PhD; Zhao, Ying MD, PhD; Zhang, Xiaolei MD, PhD; Zhang, Yuan MD, PhD; Zhang, Guiyu MD, PhD; Cui, Baoxia MD, PhD. Cesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy Clinical Classification System With Recommended Surgical Strategy. Obstetrics & Gynecology 141(5):p 927-936, May 2023. | DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000005113

On Sept 10, 2023, er released an episode titled, “CS Ut Closure: Decidua or No Decidua?”. We highlighted the importance of AVOIDING the decidua at hysterotomy closure at CS. Now, in Sept 2025, in Obstetrics and Gynecology (the Green Journal), there is a new systematic review and meta-analysis on this very topic. Does this new study CONFIRM or REFUTE what we explained 2 years ago? Listen in for details. 1. Sept 10, 2023 Chapa Clinical Pearls Podcast: CS Ut Closure: Decidua or No Decidua?2. Lino GM, Galvão PVM, da Silva MLF, Conrado GAM. Not Closing Compared With Closing the Endometrial Layer During Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Obstet Gynecol. 2025 Jun 12;146(3):e55-e63. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000005974. PMID: 40505112.

According to the J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. (2024), the incidence of pelvic ring injuries is 34.3 per 100,000 with trauma being the most obvious causation. Women account for approximately 69.7% of these injuries, 23% of which occur in women of childbearing age. In this specific patient population, concern is raised about one's future reproductive capability and method of delivery. The normal bony pelvic movements that occur during vaginal delivery are crucial for accommodating the passage of the fetus through the birth canal; this allows for the normal cardinal phases of labor to occur. These movements involve the widening and shifting of various pelvic joints and bones, primarily influenced by hormonal changes and the mechanical forces exerted by the baby. So, it is reasonable to ask if a patient with pelvic fractures and fixation can safely allow a trial of labor. Is a history of pelvic fractures with surgical fixation an indication for primary cesarean section? If it’s not, in what scenario would a primary c-section be best after a pelvic fracture? Listen in for details. 1.Pelvic Fractures in Women of Childbearing Age.Cannada LK, Barr J. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. 2010;468(7):1781-9. doi:10.1007/s11999-010-1289-5.2.Birth Outcomes Following Pelvic Ring Injury: A Retrospective Study. Hsu CC, Lai CY, Chueh HY, et al. BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 2023;130(11):1395-1402. doi:10.1111/1471-0528.17487.3.Pregnancy and Delivery After Pelvic Fracture in Fertile-Aged Women: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study in Finland. Vaajala M, Kuitunen I, Nyrhi L, et al. European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology. 2022;270:126-132. doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.01.008.4.Pregnancy Outcomes After Pelvic Ring Injury.Vallier HA, Cureton BA, Schubeck D. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma. 2012;26(5):302-7. doi:10.1097/BOT.0b013e31822428c5.5.Caesarean Section Rates Following Pelvic Fracture: A Systematic Review. Riehl JT. Injury. 2014;45(10):1516-21. doi:10.1016/j.injury.2014.03.018.6.Unstable Pelvic Fractures in Women: Implications on Obstetric Outcome. Davidson A, Giannoudis VP, Kotsarinis G, et al. International Orthopaedics. 2024;48(1):235-241. doi:10.1007/s00264-023-05979-4.7.Management of Pelvic Injuries in Pregnancy.Amorosa LF, Amorosa JH, Wellman DS, Lorich DG, Helfet DL. The Orthopedic Clinics of North America. 2013;44(3):301-15, viii. doi:10.1016/j.ocl.2013.03.0058.Effect of Trauma and Pelvic Fracture on Female Genitourinary, Sexual, and Reproductive Function.Copeland CE, Bosse MJ, McCarthy ML, et al. Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma. 1997 Feb-Mar;11(2):73-81. doi:10.1097/00005131-199702000-00001.9. The Rate of Elective Cesarean Section After Pelvic or Hip Fracture Remains High Even After the Long-Term Follow-Up: A Nationwide Register-Based Study in Finland. Vaajala M, Kuitunen I, Liukkonen R, et al.European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology. 2022;277:77-83. doi:10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.08.10. Bajerová M, Hruban L. Movements of the pelvic bones of expectant mothers during vaginal delivery. Ceska Gynekol. 2024;89(4):335-342. English. doi: 10.48095/cccg2024335. PMID: 39242210. 11. Lewis AJ, Barker EP, Griswold BG, Blair JA, Davis JM. Pelvic Ring Fracture Management and Subsequent Pregnancy: A Summary of Current Literature. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. 2024 Feb 6;8(2):e23.00203. doi: 10.5435/JAAOSGlobal-D-23-00203. PMID: 38323930; PMCID: PMC10849384.12. Childbirth after Pelvic Fractures: Debunking the Myths: https://ota.org/sites/files/legacy_abstracts/ota09/otapa/OTA090132.htm13. Davidson A, Giannoudis VP, Kotsarinis G, Santolini E, Tingerides C, Koneru A, Kanakaris NK, Giannoudis PV. Unstable pelvic fractures in women: implications on obstetric outcome. Int Orthop. 2024 Jan;48(1):235-241. doi: 10.1007/s00264-023-05979-4. Epub 2023 Sep 15. PMID: 37710070

Traditionally, we have learned that any imbalance in the estrogen: progesterone relationship can trigger irregular uterine bleeding. That makes sense, right? During anovulation, prolonged unopposed estrogen can result in HMB. In such a case, we give progesterone as both a therapeutic as well as diagnostic intervention. On the contrary, with progestin only contraception, we consider estrogen predominant products when progesterone breakthrough bleeding (BTB) occurs to restore endometrial stabilization. But a new RCT (AJOG) adds credence to adding MORE progesterone in cases of progesterone associated BTB. Listen in for details.1. Zigler RE, Madden T, Ashby C, Wan L, McNicholas C. Ulipristal Acetate for Unscheduled Bleeding in Etonogestrel Implant Users: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obstet Gynecol. 2018 Oct;132(4):888-894. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000002810. PMID: 30130351; PMCID: PMC6153077.2.ANDRADE MCR, et al. Norethisterone for Prolonged Uterine Bleeding Associated with Etonogestrel Implant (IMPLANET): A Randomized Controlled Trial, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (2025), doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2025.08.029.

Routine vaginal examinations (VEs) are a standard component of intrapartum care, traditionally performed at regular intervals to monitor cervical dilation, effacement, and fetal station, which are indicators of labor progression. Yet, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that there is insufficient evidence to recommend a specific frequency for cervical examinations during labor, and examinations should be performed as clinically indicated. Now, a recently published RCT form AJOG MFM is adding additional credence to that. Can we space out clinical exams in otherwise “low-risk” laboring women to 8 hours? Listen in for details. 1. AJOG MFM: (08/18/25) Routine Vaginal Examination Scheduled At 8 vs 4 Hours In Multiparous Women In Early Spontaneous Labour: A Randomised Controlled Trial https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S25899333250016122. Nashreen CM, Hamdan M, Hong J, et al.Routine Vaginal Examination to Assess Labor Progress at 8 Compared to 4 h After Early Amniotomy Following Foley Balloon Ripening in the Labor Induction of Nulliparas: A Randomized Trial. Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2024;103(12):2475-2484. doi:10.1111/aogs.14975.3. First and Second Stage Labor Management: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline No. 8. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2024;143(1):144-162. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000005447.4. Moncrieff G, Gyte GM, Dahlen HG, et al. Routine Vaginal Examinations Compared to Other Methods for Assessing Progress of Labour to Improve Outcomes for Women and Babies at Term. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2022;3:CD010088. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010088.pub3.5. Gluck, O., et al. (2020). The correlation between the number of vaginal examinations during active labor and febrile morbidity, a retrospective cohort study. [BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth]6. Pan, WL., Chen, LL. & Gau, ML. Accuracy of non-invasive methods for assessing the progress of labor in the first stage: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 22, 608 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-022-04938-y

Breast cancer is an hormone responsive malignancy, meaning it may use estrogen and progesterone, reduced in high quantities during a pregnancy, for growth. However, as medical evidence evolves quickly, physicians have come to understand that breast cancer diagnosis during pregnancy doesn't always mean worse prognoses. While older studies- including meta analysis-reflected worse prognoses for pregnancy related breast cancer compared to non-pregnancy related cases, these studies either included studies from the 1960s and 70s when diagnosis and treatment were radically different, had inconsistent definitions of PABC, and/or were poorly age and staged matched. Therefore, as stated in the new UK (Aug 2025) guidance, “the applicability to modern day practice of the findings from these reports is limited”. The more updated clinical stance is that, “By using diagnostic and treatment pathways for women with {pregnancy related breast cancer} which are as close as possible to women with non-pregnancy related breast cancer, similar outcomes can be achieved” (RCOG Green Top recommendations No 12). In this episode, we will summarize key points from the recently released Green Top Guidance No 12 (25 Aug 2025) which has shifted the perspective on treating breast cancer DURING pregnancy. 1. Cubillo A, Morales S, Goñi E, Matute F, Muñoz JL, Pérez-Díaz D, de Santiago J, Rodríguez-Lescure Á. Multidisciplinary consensus on cancer management during pregnancy. Clin Transl Oncol. 2021 Jun;23(6):1054-1066. doi: 10.1007/s12094-020-02491-8. Epub 2020 Nov 16. PMID: 33191439; PMCID: PMC8084770.2. https://www.rcog.org.uk/guidance/browse-all-guidance/green-top-guidelines/pregnancy-and-breast-cancer-green-top-guideline-no-12/3. Sundermann AC, Cate JM, Campbell AK, Dotters-Katz SK, Myers ER, Federspiel JJ. Maternal morbidity and mortality among patients with cancer at time of delivery. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Sep;229(3):324.e1-324.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.06.008. Epub 2023 Jun 7. PMID: 37295633; PMCID: PMC10593119.