ACOG News Releases

Maternal and Child Health Advocates Decry Impact of Proposed Budget Cuts

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:55:55 -0400

Washington, DC -- Five of the nation's leading maternal and child health organizations vehemently oppose the dramatically reduced budget allocation proposed by the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2014 labor, health and education spending bill. The Committee’s decision to shift all of the automatic budget cuts (known as sequestration) to non-defense discretionary programs in FY 2014 would severely jeopardize the health and well-being of women, children and their families.

Groups Announce Ambitious Maternal Health Initiative

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:02:12 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) are pleased to announce the Maternal Health Initiative, a large multi-group collaborative effort aimed at reducing maternal morbidity and mortality in the US by 50% as well as reducing the racial and ethnic maternal health disparities.

Protocol at Stamford Hospital Reduces Elective Inductions

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:40:49 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- A hospital policy limiting labor inductions effectively decreases elective inductions before 39 weeks’ gestation and improves the likelihood of vaginal birth, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

High Protein, Low Carb Diets Greatly Improve Fertility

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:28:49 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- A diet rich in proteins appears to have a pronounced positive effect on fertility, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments who consumed high levels of protein and low levels of carbohydrates had better quality eggs and embryos.

ACOG Elects New Officers

Sat, 04 May 2013 13:13:39 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Today, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) announced the election of John C. Jennings, MD, of Texas, as President Elect; Ben H. Cheek, MD, of Georgia, as Secretary; Paul G. Tomich, MD, of Nebraska, as Fellow-at-Large; and Michelle Y. Owens, MD, MS, of Mississippi, as Young Physician-at-Large. They will assume their respective offices on May 9, 2013.

Jeanne A. Conry, MD 64th President of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:33:42 -0400

Washington, DC – Today, Jeanne A. Conry, MD, PhD, of Granite Bay, CA, became the 64th president of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), based in Washington, DC. Dr. Conry was sworn in during the presidential inauguration and convocation at the annual conference of ob-gyns in New Orleans, LA.

Growing Acceptance of Removing Fallopian Tubes But Keeping Ovaries to Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:23:01 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Patients and physicians are showing a growing acceptance of routinely removing the fallopian tubes but preserving the ovaries during hysterectomy, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Removing just the fallopian tubes during hysterectomy may lower the risk of developing the most common type of ovarian cancer, researchers said.

Transferring Single Prescreened Embryo in IVF Offers Excellent Delivery Rates

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:15:26 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Transferring a single prescreened chromosomally normal embryo during in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers delivery rates equivalent to the more standard procedure of transferring two unscreened embryos, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. It also results in fewer twins and, thus, healthier obstetric and pediatric outcomes.

Study Finds Adverse Effects of Pitocin in Newborns

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:08:12 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Induction and augmentation of labor with the hormone oxytocin may not be as safe for full-term newborns as previously believed, according to research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Researchers say this is the first study of its kind to present data on the adverse effects of Pitocin use on newborns.

Two-Thirds of US Hospitals Now Restricting Non-Medically Indicated Delivery Before 39 Weeks

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:03:30 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Nearly two-thirds of all US hospitals handling non-emergency births have instituted policies to eliminate non-medically indicated (NMI) deliveries prior to 39 weeks’ gestation, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Drug Combination for Headache During Pregnancy Shows Promise

Sat, 04 May 2013 12:01:25 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- The drug combination of metoclopramide and diphenhydramine (MAD) is a safe, effective headache treatment for pregnant women, especially when acetaminophen fails to provide relief, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Rx Contraceptives Most Expensive in Florida’s Low-Income Zip Codes

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:54:17 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Several prescription contraceptives are more expensive in Florida’s lower income areas and the least costly in some higher income areas, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. For many women, particularly low-income women, cost is a leading barrier to contraception and contributes to unintended pregnancy rates.

Synthetic Marijuana Mimics Preeclampsia and Eclampsia in Pregnancy

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:53:24 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Use of the synthetic marijuana “Spice Gold” can mimic the symptoms of eclampsia and preeclampsia in pregnancy, according to a retrospective case study presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Half of Women Unaware that Pregnancy Is More Dangerous Than Contraception

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:48:52 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- About half of pregnant women incorrectly believe that hormonal contraception is more dangerous than pregnancy, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Restricting Elective Inductions Reduces Cesareans

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:48:31 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Policies restricting elective labor induction reduce time from admission to delivery, as well as reduce cesarean delivery rates, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Researchers say the policies benefit both mothers and babies.

‘Hard-Stop’ Policy Nearly Eliminates NICU Admissions from Elective Inductions

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:43:56 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- “Hard-stop” policies against elective deliveries until 39 weeks’ gestation result in fewer early-term infants admitted to the NICU, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Reproductive Coercion Prevalent Regardless of Socioeconomic and Educational Background

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:43:16 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Reproductive coercion occurring along with intimate partner violence (IPV) is prevalent among ob-gyn patients regardless of socioeconomic status and particularly affects single women, says new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Researchers say physicians who screen for it should tailor family planning counseling accordingly.

New Moms Welcome Contraceptive Counseling by Pediatricians at Well-Baby Visit

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:38:30 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Nine out of 10 new mothers would welcome contraceptive counseling by their pediatrician at their well-baby visit, according to research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Adding contraceptive counseling to the well-baby visit may help reduce unplanned pregnancies, say the researchers.

17P Plus Cerclage Decreases Preterm Labor Risk

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:38:23 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Pregnant women at risk of preterm labor who have their cervix stitched closed may increase their chances of carrying a fetus to term by also receiving injections of 17P, according to research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

‘Hard-Stop’ Policy Against Early Elective Deliveries Improves Outcomes

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:30:53 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Letting low-risk pregnant patients go into spontaneous labor and delaying non-medically indicated deliveries until 39 weeks’ gestation benefit both mothers and babies, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Depression, Anxiety Rates High Among Hospitalized Pregnant Women on Bed Rest

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:25:13 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Pregnant women who are hospitalized and on bed rest should be assessed for depression and anxiety, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Social Networks and Peer Education Improve Knowledge, Attitudes About LARC

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:01:29 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Using social networks and peer education may be a way to increase acceptance of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) among low-income women, according to a community-based research study presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Awards Presented at the 61st Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Sat, 04 May 2013 10:58:52 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- The following awards were presented today during the 61st Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College), held May 40-8, 2013.

Bowel Problems Very Common In Pregnancy

Sat, 04 May 2013 10:56:32 -0400

New Orleans, LA -- Three-quarters of women in their first trimester of pregnancy report experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, bloating, or diarrhea, but still say their quality of life is good, according to new research presented today at the Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Medical Groups Denounce Administration’s Appeal of Emergency Contraception Ruling

Thu, 02 May 2013 10:53:00 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM) oppose the U.S. Department of Justice’s May 1 decision to appeal a recent U.S. District Court ruling requiring that emergency contraception products be made available over-the-counter without age restriction. The medical organizations stand behind their support of the Court’s ruling, citing strong scientific evidence on the safety and efficacy of emergency contraception for all women of reproductive age.

Statement on FDA Approval of OTC Emergency Contraception

Wed, 01 May 2013 12:21:28 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) welcomes the FDA’s approval of Plan B One-Step^® emergency contraception (EC) for availability without a prescription to adolescent girls ages 15 and older. Although this action improves the accessibility of EC, The College reaffirms its position that EC should be available over-the-counter (OTC) without any age restriction. Additionally, it is unclear how 15-year-olds will be able to prove age without a government ID. The medical evidence demonstrates that EC is safe and effective in preventing pregnancy for all reproductive-age females. The College strongly encourages the FDA to reaffirm its earlier decision to approve EC for unrestricted OTC access.

Statement on State Legislation Requiring Hospital Admitting Privileges for Physicians Providing Abortion Services

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:49:34 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) believes physicians who provide medical and surgical procedures, including abortion services, in their offices, clinics, or freestanding ambulatory care facilities should have a plan to ensure prompt emergency services if a complication occurs and should establish a mechanism for transferring patients who require emergency treatment. However, ACOG opposes legislation or other requirements that single out abortion services from other outpatient procedures. For example, ACOG opposes laws or other regulations that require abortion providers to have hospital admitting privileges. ACOG also opposes facility regulations that are more stringent for abortion than for other surgical procedures of similar low risk.

ACOG Elects New Officers

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:20:30 -0400

San Diego, CA -- Today, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) announced the election of Jeanne A. Conry, MD, PhD, of California, as President Elect; Scott D. Hayworth, MD, of New York, as Treasurer; Thomas M. Gellhaus, MD, of Iowa, as Assistant Secretary; Owen C. Montgomery, MD, of Pennsylvania, as Fellow-at-Large; Eduardo Lara-Torre, MD, of Virginia, as Young Physician-at-Large; Patrick S. Ramsey, MD, MSPH, of Texas, as Young Physician-at-Large; and Cathy H. Whittlesey, of Colorado, as Public Member. They will assume their respective offices on May 10, 2012.

All Women Need Antibiotics One Hour Before Cesarean Delivery

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:18:32 -0400

Washington, DC -- All pregnant women should be given antibiotics before having a cesarean delivery to help prevent infections, according to new recommendations issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The College says that the antibiotics should be given within one hour of the start of surgery for maximum effectiveness.

Medical Groups Praise Court Ruling Lifting Age Restriction on Emergency Contraception

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:07:04 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society of Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM) commend today’s ruling by a U.S. District Court that directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow over-the-counter access without age restriction to the emergency contraception (EC) product Plan B One-Step. This decision reflects the overwhelming evidence that emergency contraception is safe and effective for all women of reproductive age.

Statement by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on North Dakota Abortion Laws

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:42:40 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly opposes all three restrictive abortion laws recently enacted in North Dakota. ACOG opposes laws regulating medical care that are unsupported by scientific evidence and that are not necessary to achieve an important public-health objective. These laws hurt the women of North Dakota and their families and do not enhance women’s health or patient safety. These laws destroy the reproductive rights of women and impose unnecessary barriers that limit access to medical care.

Early Deliveries Without Medical Indications: Just Say No

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:03:26 -0400

Washington, DC -- Suspecting a large baby is not a medical reason to deliver before 39 weeks, according to new recommendations issued today jointly by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). In response to the rise in early-term births in the US, The College reemphasizes its position against deliveries before 39 weeks, unless there is a valid medical indication, because of the health risks to infants and mothers.

Vaginal Delivery Recommended Over Maternal-Request Cesarean

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:29:08 -0400

Washington, DC -- The nation’s largest ob-gyn organization recommends that pregnant women plan for vaginal birth unless there is a medical reason for a cesarean. In new guidelines issued today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) says maternal-request cesareans are especially not recommended for women planning to have several children, nor should they be performed before 39 completed weeks of pregnancy.

Chlamydia Screening Rates Too Low, Reinfection Rates Too High

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:26:16 -0400

Washington, DC -- Only 38 percent of sexually active young women are screened for chlamydia, according to data released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at the recent National STD Prevention Conference. CDC data also found that despite high rates of reinfection, just over one-fifth of women with a confirmed chlamydia infection were retested within six months as recommended by the CDC.

Statement on Robotic Surgery by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:04:26 -0400

Washington, DC -- Many women today are hearing about the claimed advantages of robotic surgery for hysterectomy, thanks to widespread marketing and advertising. Robotic surgery is not the only or the best minimally invasive approach for hysterectomy. Nor is it the most cost-efficient. It is important to separate the marketing hype from the reality when considering the best surgical approach for hysterectomies.

Women's Health Legislation Introduced in US Congress

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 13:53:47 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) gives its full support to two bills introduced in Congress that advance women’s health. ACOG applauds Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) for introducing the Women’s Health Resolution that declares women’s health a priority in the 113th Congress. ACOG also applauds Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY) for introducing the Quality Care for Moms and Babies Act.

Sandra A. Carson, MD, Appointed Vice President for Education

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:50:29 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today announces that Sandra A. Carson, MD, has been appointed as its new vice president for education.

Winter 2013 pause Magazine Now Online

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 10:55:04 -0500

Washington, DC -- The Winter 2013 issue of pause magazine is now online. Published by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pause covers a range of health concerns for women approaching menopause.

Statement by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 09:28:45 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly supports the nomination of Marilyn Tavenner as administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Ms. Tavenner brings 35 years of experience in working with health care providers and administering health care systems and agencies. She has earned respect and support from state and federal policy makers and advocates for her deep knowledge and commitment to improving health care safety and quality while increasing efficiency.

Contraceptive Sabotage Not Uncommon

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:51:46 -0500

Washington, DC -- Homicide is one of the leading causes of death for pregnant women in the US, according to new recommendations issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). In addition to lethal violence, many abused adolescent girls and women have male partners who intentionally sabotage their contraception, deliberately give them sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or force them into having unwanted pregnancies or abortions.

ACOG, AAP Develop First Collaborative Physician-Focused Breastfeeding Handbook

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 10:27:19 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) are pleased to announce the publication of the first collaborative breastfeeding guide aimed at physicians. Breastfeeding Handbook for Physicians enhances awareness of the benefits and importance of breastfeeding and increases knowledge of breastfeeding physiology and practice.

ACOG Commends President and Congress for Standing up for Servicewomen

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:42:23 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds President Obama and the US Congress for supporting women in military service to our nation in the FY2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Language included by Sen. Jean Shaheen (D-NH), with bipartisan support by the Congress and the president will, for the first time, ensure that servicewomen and the wives and daughters of service members have insurance coverage of abortions when a pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.

2013

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:15:59 -0500

Pregnancy and Weight Gain: How Much Is Too Little?

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:56:22 -0500

Washington, DC -- Overweight and obese women may be able to gain less than what is recommended during pregnancy and still have a healthy baby, according to new recommendations issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Gaining less weight than recommended may be appropriate as long as the fetus is growing appropriately. All women, regardless of weight, should avoid excessive weight gain in pregnancy.

ACOG Request to HHS: Revisit OTC EC Decision

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 18:54:57 -0500

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, along with the American Medical Association and nine other health organizations, requests that the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) revisit the decision regarding over-the-counter access for Plan B One-Step emergency contraception (EC).

New Prenatal Blood Test Promising

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 10:33:40 -0500

Washington, DC -- A new noninvasive blood test that measures cell free fetal DNA (cffDNA) to screen for three common genetic disorders early in pregnancy is extremely promising, according to a new Committee Opinion issued jointly today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). However, cffDNA testing should be limited to pregnant women at increased risk for common chromosomal abnormalities until further research is available.

Ob-Gyns Recommend Women Wait 3 to 5 Years Between Pap Tests

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:53:33 -0500

Washington, DC -- Most women should be screened for cervical cancer no more often than once every three to five years, according to new guidelines issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). In addition to extending the interval between Pap tests, co-testing with the Pap test and the human papillomavirus (HPV) test is preferred to the Pap test alone but should be limited to women age 30 and older and used only once every five years.

Ob-Gyns Want the Pill Available OTC

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 08:52:48 -0500

Washington, DC -- Oral contraceptives (OCs) should be sold over the counter (OTC) in drugstores without a doctor’s prescription, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Easier access to OCs should help lower the nation’s high unintended pregnancy rate, a rate that has not changed over the past 20 years and costs taxpayers an estimated $11.1 billion annually.

Pregnant? Your Flu Vaccine Due Date Is Now

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 18:16:35 -0500

Washington, DC -- With the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting an earlier and harder-hitting flu season, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) reminds women who are or will become pregnant during the annual flu season (October through May) to get the flu vaccine.

Time to Clamp the Cord?

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:04:20 -0500

Washington, DC -- Waiting to clamp the umbilical cord until 30–60 seconds after birth may benefit the health of preterm infants, but no evidence shows that it helps full-term babies, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The ideal time for cord clamping after delivery, even after years of debate, has yet to be definitively established.

Women on Medicaid Face Unfair Barriers to Sterilization Requests

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:48 -0500

Washington, DC -- Women covered by Medicaid experience unfair barriers to their requests for postpartum sterilization compared with women who have commercial or private insurance, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The federal consent rules for sterilization procedures place an undue burden on women and effectively creates a two-tier system of access.

Statement on Rape and Pregnancy

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:48 -0500

Washington, DC -- Recent remarks by a member of the US House of Representatives suggesting that “women who are victims of ‘legitimate rape’ rarely get pregnant” are medically inaccurate, offensive, and dangerous.

SCOPE Certification Applications Now Being Accepted

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:47 -0500

San Diego, CA – Applications for The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ (ACOG) Safety Certification in Outpatient Practice Excellence (SCOPE) for Women’s Health certification are now being accepted with the completion of the pilot phase.

The College Hosts Leadership Council of Saving Mothers, Giving Life

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:47 -0500

Washington, DC -- Official representatives from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College), US Department of State, US Agency for International Development, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Merck for Mothers, Every Mother Counts, and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met this week at The College’s Washington, DC, headquarters for a two-day summit to discuss their ongoing partnership initiative, Saving Mothers, Giving Life (SMGL), a five-year effort to reduce global mortality.

Ob-Gyns Join Partnership in Saving Mothers, Giving Life Global Initiative

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:47 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists today announces its partnership with the US Department of State, Merck for Mothers, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Every Mother Counts in a new initiative called Saving Mothers, Giving Life, a five-year effort to reduce global maternal mortality.

Response to Politician's Inaccurate Abortion Comments

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:46 -0500

Washington, DC -- Contrary to the inaccurate statements made yesterday by Rep. Joe Walsh (R-IL), abortions are necessary in a number of circumstances to save the life of a woman or to preserve her health. Unfortunately, pregnancy is not a risk-free life event, particularly for many women with chronic medical conditions. Despite all of our medical advances, more than 600 women die each year from pregnancy and childbirth-related reasons right here in the US. In fact, many more women would die each year if they did not have access to abortion to protect their health or to save their lives.

Potential Increased Blood Clot Risk with Newest OCs

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:46 -0500

Washington, DC -- Birth control pills containing drospirenone may have a slightly higher risk of blood clots than other oral contraceptives (OC), but any increased risk remains very low, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). In fact, the risk of developing blood clots with all OCs is significantly lower than the blood clot risk during pregnancy and in the month after giving birth. Women taking OCs containing drospirenone and doing well on them do not need to stop taking them.

ACOG Statement on “Personhood” Measures

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:46 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is unequivocally opposed to the so-called "personhood" laws or amendments being considered in several states. These measures erode women's basic rights to privacy and bodily integrity; deny women access to the full spectrum of preventive health care including contraception; and undermine the doctor-patient relationship. ACOG firmly believes that science must be at the core of public health policies and medical decision-making that affect the health and life of women.

ACOG Applauds House Passage of HR 5 Protecting Access to Health Care Act

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:45 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds today’s US House of Representatives passage of HR 5, the Protecting Access to Health Care Act. This legislation incorporates three of ACOG’s top legislative priorities: repealing the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB), instituting meaningful medical liability reform, and providing ob-gyns and other on-call physicians who provide care under the Emergency Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) important liability protections.

GirlSmarts Website, Interconception Care Project Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Ob-Gyn

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:45 -0500

San Diego, CA -- Today The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) bestowed its 2012 Council of District Chairs (CDC) Section Recognition Awards to ACOG’s Oklahoma Section and District IX (California).

Osteoporosis Guidelines Issued

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:44 -0500

Washington, DC – An estimated $17 billion is spent each year to treat the roughly 2 million osteoporosis-related bone fractures that occur in the US annually, according to practice guidelines issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The College’s updated guidelines address the prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis, as well changes to recommended calcium and vitamin D levels for women.

Opioid Abuse During Pregnancy Spurs Medical Treatment Guidance

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:44 -0500

Washington, DC -- To maximize outcomes for mothers and infants, the health care of pregnant women addicted to opioid-containing prescription medications or heroin is best co-managed by ob-gyns and physicians specializing in addiction medicine, according to a Committee Opinion issued jointly today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

Ob-Gyns: Too Many Barriers to EC

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:43 -0500

Washington, DC -- Emergency contraception (EC) should be widely available and easily accessible to all women, according to a Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Age restrictions, cost, insurance coverage, and misconceptions about EC are all unnecessary barriers that continue keeping women from using this safe and effective method to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the first few days after unprotected sex, sexual assault, or contraceptive failure.

Ob-Gyns Partner with Text4Baby

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:42 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) has signed on as a national partner and key content reviewer for text4baby, the first free health texting service for pregnant women and new moms nationwide. A program of the National Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB), text4baby sends weekly messages directly to the mobile phones of the women who have joined.

Ob-Gyns Discourage Personalized Genetic Tests

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:42 -0500

Washington, DC -- The clinical value of genetic tests that promise to identify your personal risk of developing cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer's, and a host of other diseases is unproven and these tests should not be used outside of clinical trials, says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Although genetic profile tests may prove to be important tools in the future, they are not ready for prime time.

Ob-Gyns Address Impact of Breast Cancer Treatments

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:41 -0500

Washington, DC -- As many women treated for breast cancer can attest, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy treatments often affect other facets of their health. To address these problems, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) has released new recommendations for ob-gyns to help identify and treat common gynecologic side effects of cancer treatment.

No to Routine Lead Testing of Pregnant Women

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:41 -0500

Washington, DC -- All pregnant and breastfeeding women should be evaluated for their individual risk of environmental lead exposure, but only those with one or more risk factors should actually be tested for lead, preferably at their first office visit, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Because of the significant health risks of moderate to high lead levels in pregnant women, fetuses, and young children, The College issued new recommendations on screening and blood testing for lead.

Nancy C. Chescheir, MD, Selected New Editor of Obstetrics & Gynecology

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:40 -0500

Washington, DC -- Nancy C. Chescheir, MD, of Chapel Hill, NC, has been selected as the new editor-in-chief of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the official monthly peer-reviewed medical journal of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Dr. Chescheir will succeed James R. Scott, MD, who has been editor-in-chief for 11 years.

Medical Liability Climate Hurts Patients and Ob-Gyns

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:39 -0500

Washington, DC -- The medical liability climate continues to force ob-gyns across the US to reduce gynecologic surgeries, drop obstetrics, move their practice out of state, or abandon private practice to become hospital employees, according to the latest survey data released by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Survey results show that the near-universal fear of lawsuits coupled with the high cost of liability insurance not only negatively affects ob-gyns, but also harms patients and adversely impacts the entire health care system.

Medical Groups Release New Cervical Screening Guidance

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:39 -0500

Washington, DC -- The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and The American Cancer Society (ACS), The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP), and The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) today issued separate recommendations in support of increasing the interval between cervical cancer screenings to five years for many women 30 and older. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) is currently reviewing the new guidelines and the data used to develop them.

Letter to the Editor USA Today

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:38 -0500

Drs. Angell and Greene (Where are the doctors? May 16) correctly point out the relentless assault on women's reproductive health by state lawmakers across the country. We agree--women's reproductive health is under siege.

Letter to the Editor New York Times

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:38 -0500

The New York Times editorial is accurate in depicting the current assault on women’s health care and reproductive rights as “undeniable, severe, and continuing.” (The Campaign Against Women, May 20). The continuous onslaught of laws focusing exclusively on denying reproductive health care rights is a concerted campaign against women. These laws are not grounded in science or evidence-based medicine.

Lesbians Have Same Gynecologic Health Needs as Heterosexuals

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:38 -0500

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns should provide the same comprehensive gynecologic health care to lesbians and bisexual women as they do to heterosexual women, including Pap tests, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). All ob-gyns see lesbian or bisexual patients in their practices; they just may not know it because not all women disclose their sexual orientation.

Op-Ed "Universal Access to Contraception Could Be A Life Saver" by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD, The Las Vegas Review-Journal, July 22, 2012

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:37 -0500

Last week a Lancet study estimated that providing contraception to women in developing countries could reduce maternal deaths by nearly a third. Following this, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation pledged $560 million to provide family planning services to millions of women from the poorest countries.

James T. Breeden, MD 63rd President The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:37 -0500

San Diego, CA -- Today James T. Breeden, MD, of Nevada, became the 63^rd president of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), based in Washington, DC. Dr. Breeden was sworn in during the presidential inauguration and convocation at the annual conference of ob-gyns in San Diego, CA.

IUDs and Contraceptive Implants Safe for Teens

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:37 -0500

Washington, DC -- Implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) should be offered as first-line contraceptive options for sexually active adolescents, according to new guidelines issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Both the implant and the IUD are the most effective reversible contraceptives for preventing unintended pregnancy and abortion in teens and adult women.

IPV: An Under-Recognized Public Health Epidemic

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:36 -0500

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns are uniquely positioned to help women who are victims of intimate partner violence (IPV), a significant public health problem in the US, according to recommendations issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The College says that ob-gyns should routinely screen all women for IPV at periodic intervals including during prenatal visits, offer them support, and have referral and resource information handy for those being abused.

Essential Elements of Annual Well-Woman Visit Issued

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:36 -0500

Washington, DC -- Although most women no longer need annual Pap tests based on recent cervical cancer screening guidelines, they still need annual well-woman exams with their ob-gyn for other important screenings, evaluations, and immunizations based on their age and individual risk factors. In a new Committee Opinion issued today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) details when pelvic exams are needed, which women need clinical breast exams, and why the annual well-woman office visit is so important.

Barbara S. Levy, MD, Appointed VP for Health Policy, Advocacy Division The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:35 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) announced today Barbara S. Levy, MD, as its Vice President (VP) for Health Policy, Advocacy Division, a new position.

August 1 Marks Huge Step Forward In Women's Access to Comprehensive Well-Woman Care

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:34 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly supports provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which, effective August 1, guarantee women covered by most employer-sponsored health insurance plans comprehensive well-woman care with no co-pays or deductibles. ACOG worked closely with the US Congress, the Institute of Medicine, and the US Department and Health and Human Services to ensure this important coverage.

Letter to the Editor

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:34 -0500

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists takes issue with grossly misleading information in a recent letter-to-the-editor ("Methods raise ethical issue," April 9).

African-American and Hispanic Women at High Risk of HIV

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:33 -0500

Washington, DC -- HIV/AIDS continues to disproportionately affect women of color in the US, particularly African-Americans and Hispanics, according to a Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). All women should be screened for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, but physicians and their patients must be aware that women of color have the highest risk of contracting this disease.

Advocates Call for Commitment to Reduce Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:33 -0500

San Diego, CA -- “I was shocked to learn that hundreds of thousands of women die each year during childbirth—and that 90% of these deaths are preventable,” said Christy Turlington Burns.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Supports Obama Administration's "Strong Start" Initiative

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:32 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) is proud to partner with the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other health care organizations on the "Strong Start" initiative, a national public awareness campaign aimed at improving maternal and infant health outcomes by reducing the number of unnecessary elective deliveries before 39 weeks' gestation.

ACOG Supports Oklahoma Court Decision Ruling Ultrasound Act Unconstitutional

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:32 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lauds yesterday's ruling by Oklahoma County District Judge Bryan Dixon rejecting the Ultrasound Act as unconstitutional. This law, passed by the Oklahoma Senate in 2010 but immediately blocked by injunction, mandated that women seeking an abortion be required to undergo an ultrasound and then be forced to view the ultrasound image before the procedure. The law also required a physician performing the abortion to describe the fetus to the woman. Similar laws have been passed in nine other states.

ACOG Supports Individual Mandate As Key to Women’s Health Insurance Protections

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:32 -0500

Washington, DC -- As the US Supreme Court reviews the constitutionality of the individual mandate included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reiterates its support of extending health insurance to the nearly 50 million uninsured Americans.

ACOG President Applauds Supreme Court Ruling As Victory for Women's Health

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:31 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds the US Supreme Court’s ruling today that affirms the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). “The Affordable Care Act helps ensure all Americans have access to affordable coverage with important consumer protections and benefits, including comprehensive maternity coverage and well-woman care,” said ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD. “We urge all states to act swiftly to implement these important access and coverage guarantees.”

ACOG President Martin Applauds President Obama and Secretary Sebelius on Ensuring Women's Access to Contraceptive Coverage

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:30 -0500

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds President Barack Obama and Secretary Kathleen Sebelius for their decision to guarantee women in most employer-sponsored health insurance plans coverage for FDA-approved contraceptives with no co-pays or deductibles beginning August 1, 2012.

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Drives Most Visits to Gynecologists

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:30 -0500

Washington, DC -- Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is the cause of roughly one-third of all visits to the gynecologist among premenopausal women and more than 70% of office visits among peri- and postmenopausal women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today released its first comprehensive guidance to ob-gyns for the screening, treatment, and management of AUB among reproductive-age women.

A Push to End Preeclampsia

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:30 -0500

San Diego, CA -- Understanding how best to anticipate, diagnose, and treat preeclampsia—a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death in the US—was the focus of today's opening ceremonies of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' (The College) 60th Annual Clinical Meeting (ACM).

Charles B. Hammond, MD, Receives Luella Klein Lifetime Achievement Award

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:52:29 -0500

San Diego, CA -- In honor of a career filled with momentous achievements for women’s health, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) presented the Luella Klein Lifetime Achievement Award to former ACOG President Charles B. Hammond, MD, of North Carolina.

Medical Liability a Chronic Crisis

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 14:55:47 -0400

Washington, DC -- President Obama's federal 2012 budget includes $250 million in grants over the next three years to fund state efforts to overhaul medical liability laws. This proposal authorizes the US Justice Department, in consultation with the Department of Health and Human Services, to award grants to states for implementing innovative reform measures such as health courts, "safe harbor" laws, and early disclosure and compensation programs.

Hormonal Contraceptives Offer Benefits Beyond Pregnancy Prevention

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 10:12:53 -0400

Washington, DC -- Hormonal contraceptives are effective in treating menstruation- related disorders such as dysmenorrhea and heavy menstrual bleeding, as well as preventing unplanned pregnancies, according to a new Practice Bulletin issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and published in the January 2010 issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. In addition, combined contraceptives containing both estrogen and progesterone offer disease prevention by reducing the risk of developing endometrial, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer.

New HHS Regulation Poses Threat to Women's Health

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:41 -0400

Washington, DC -- According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a new regulation proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) could limit women's access to appropriate, complete, and accurate reproductive health information and services and seriously jeopardize the doctor-patient relationship.

Air Travel Safe for Most Pregnant Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:40 -0400

Washington, DC -- As long as pregnant women don't have any obstetric or other medical complications, they can follow the same precautions for air travel as the general population and fly safely, according to a revised Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and published in the October issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Gynecologic Cancer Patients Should Consider Clinical Trials

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:38 -0400

Washington, DC -- For the estimated 83,000 women who will be diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer in 2010, participation in clinical trials offers an opportunity both to ensure that future patients benefit from the most up-to-date treatments and increased survival rates and to potentially improve the health of current patients. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports the efforts to raise awareness about gynecologic cancers and participation in clinical trials—a main focus of this year's Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month (GCAM) in September.

Well Woman and Prenatal Visits Should Include Alcohol Abuse Screening

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:35 -0400

Washington, DC -- Women should be screened for alcohol use at least yearly and within the first trimester of pregnancy, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The new recommendations highlight the ob-gyn's role in identifying women who drink at unhealthy levels, encouraging healthy behaviors through brief intervention and education, and referring alcohol-dependent patients for treatment.

Teen Girls May Need Two Annual Well Child Visits

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:34 -0400

Washington, DC -- Adolescent girls may need two "well-child" visits each year—a general preventive visit and a dedicated reproductive health visit—and both visits should be covered by insurers according to an updated Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Ob Gyns Issue Less Restrictive VBAC Guidelines

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:32 -0400

Washington, DC -- Attempting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a safe and appropriate choice for most women who have had a prior cesarean delivery, including for some women who have had two previous cesareans, according to guidelines released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Letter to the Editor New York Times

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:30 -0400

On August 9, 2011, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists submitted the following letter to the editor of The New York Times:

Ob Gyns Encouraged to Help Pregnant Women Kick the Habit

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:29 -0400

Washington, DC -- Asking pregnant women about whether they smoke and about their exposure to secondhand smoke should be a routine part of prenatal care beginning with the very first prenatal visit, says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). An office-based protocol that systematically identifies pregnant women who smoke and that offers them treatment or referral is a proven way to increase quit rates.

Ob Gyns Issue Guidance to Prevent Surgical Errors

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:28 -0400

Washington, DC -- Preventing surgical errors begins long before a patient enters the operating room and requires instituting some fairly simple routines, such as utilizing checklists, eliminating distractions, and designating the actual surgical site on the patient with a marker, says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in recommendations issued today. Actively involving the patient before surgery also is an essential element in avoiding errors during surgery.

ACOG Urges Wider Availability of Misoprostol Internationally to Reduce Maternal Mortality

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:26 -0400

Washington, DC -- Misoprostol is a safe and cost-effective way to provide women with postabortion care services, especially in less developed countries where obstacles to timely health care remain and maternal mortality due to incomplete abortion and miscarriage is high. According to a new Committee Opinion published today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supports the increased availability and use of misoprostol as a first-line method for providing immediate postabortion care services and reducing maternal mortality.

ACOG Steps Up Efforts to Get Emergency Contraception to Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:25 -0400

Washington, DC -- From its Annual Clinical Meeting today, top leaders of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)-the preeminent authority on women's health-launched a new national campaign, Ask me., aimed at educating women about emergency contraception (EC) and encouraging them to get an advance prescription from their ob-gyn. ACOG developed this campaign to help eliminate the logistical and political barriers that currently exist and make EC largely inaccessible to women.

ACOG Issues Revision of Labor Induction Guidelines

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:25 -0400

Washington, DC -- Revised guidelines on when and how to induce labor in pregnant women were issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The guidelines provide physicians with guidance regarding which induction methods may be most appropriate under particular circumstances, as well as the safety requirements, and risks and benefits of the different methods. ACOG's Practice Bulletin "Induction of Labor" is published in the August 2009 issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

ACOG Advises Against Cosmetic Vaginal Procedures Due to Lack of Safety and Efficacy Data

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:24 -0400

Washington, DC -- So-called "vaginal rejuvenation," "designer vaginoplasty," "revirgination," and "G-spot amplification" procedures are not medically indicated, nor is there documentation of their safety and effectiveness, said The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today in a new Committee Opinion published in the September issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Moreover, it is deceptive to give the impression that any of these procedures are accepted and routine surgical practices, according to ACOG.

Special Ethical Considerations Inherent with Sterilization Procedures

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:23 -0400

Washington, DC -- There are unique ethical considerations when it comes to sterilization as a method of contraception because, unlike other methods, it is permanent and has far-reaching implications, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Supracervical Hysterectomy Not Superior to Total Hysterectomy

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:22 -0400

Washington, DC -- Supracervical hysterectomy, a surgical technique that removes the uterus while leaving the cervix intact, does not have clear benefits over total hysterectomy in women with non-cancerous disease and should not be recommended as a superior technique, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Current research does not show significant improvements in postsurgical outcomes for supracervical hysterectomy when compared with hysterectomies that remove both the uterus and the cervix. Women who choose the supracervical procedure are also at an increased risk for future problems with the retained cervix and may require additional surgery.

IUDs Implants Are Most Effective Reversible Contraceptives Available

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:19 -0400

Washington, DC -- Long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods—namely intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants—are the most effective forms of reversible contraception available and are safe for use by almost all reproductive-age women, according to a Practice Bulletin released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The new recommendations offer guidance to ob-gyns in selecting appropriate candidates for LARCs and managing clinical issues that may arise with their use.

Sexual Assault Screening Should Be Routine

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:18 -0400

Washington, DC -- Health care providers should routinely screen all patients for a history of sexual assault, according to a Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). More than 300,000 women are sexually assaulted each year in the US, but this number likely underestimates the prevalence of sexual assault as it is one of the least reported violent crimes.

Cultural Sensitivity Is Key to Quality Care

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:17 -0400

Washington, DC -- Awareness and sensitivity to a patient's cultural background can improve physician-patient communication and positively affect patient health, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). By learning more about the cultural identity of their patients, ob-gyns can become more sensitive to women's unique needs and can enhance quality of care and medical compliance, especially among women in minority and underserved communities.

ACOG Recommends Vaginal Hysterectomy as Approach of Choice

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:17 -0400

Washington, DC -- Vaginal hysterectomy is the safest and most cost-effective method to remove the uterus for noncancerous reasons, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and published in the November issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. In general, based on the medical evidence, vaginal hysterectomy is associated with better outcomes and fewer complications than either laparoscopic or abdominal hysterectomy.

Exceptions to Pap Screening in Adolescents

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:15 -0400

Washington, DC -- Most adolescent girls should wait until they turn 21 to have their first Pap test, but those who have HIV and others with weakened immune systems should begin routine cervical cancer screening right away, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The College's recommendations on screening and managing cervical cancer in adolescents, published in the August issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, address the exceptions to Pap screening before age 21 as well as the handling of abnormal test results. The College continues to advise against human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in adolescents.

ACOG Launches New Menopause Website

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:14 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has launched a new website devoted to women who are approaching or going through menopause to provide them with the necessary information they need to make informed decisions about their health. The ACOG-sponsored website can be found at http://pause.acog.org.

Expedited Partner Therapy Recommended to Prevent STI Reinfection

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:11 -0400

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns are encouraged to prescribe antibiotics for the male partners of their female patients diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea to reduce the high reinfection rate, says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) in a new Committee Opinion issued today. This practice, known as "expedited partner therapy" (EPT), allows doctors to provide prescriptions for antibiotics or the antibiotics themselves to female patients to take to their male partners who are either unlikely or unable to go to the doctor.

ACOG Issues Opinion on Ethics and Patient Testing

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:11 -0400

Washington, DC -- Rapid technological developments in medical testing have increased the complexity of the decision-making process for both physicians and patients. In response, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists today issued a Committee Opinion, "Patient Testing: Ethical Issues in Selection and Counseling," that provides ethical guidance to obstetrician-gynecologists for decisions about ordering medical tests, counseling patients, and reporting test results. The document, published in the April issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, is available online

Same-Sex Couples and Their Families Should Have Same Legal Protections and Benefits as Married Heterosexuals

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:09 -0400

Washington, DC -- Today The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued a position in full support of same-sex couples receiving the same federal and state legal protections enjoyed by heterosexual married couples. ACOG endorses equitable treatment for lesbian women and their families because it is important for both direct and indirect health care needs. Whether lesbian couples ultimately receive full legal protections through civil marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership is secondary to their gaining the same federal and state rights and protections automatically afforded married heterosexuals.

CDC Issues Recommendations on Contraceptive Safety

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:09 -0400

Washington, DC -- Today the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued its first set of evidence-based recommendations for health care professionals in the US on contraceptive safety. The US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2010 offers guidance to physicians and health care professionals when providing family planning counseling and services to women, especially to those with specific existing medical conditions.

ObGyns Respond to High Cost of Makena

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:07 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College), along with the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, is urging Ther-Rx Corporation to reconsider its pricing of Makena™. Makena is the first FDA-approved medication to help prevent preterm birth in certain high-risk pregnant women. The College argues that the extremely high cost of Makena™ will hinder access and affordability to this treatment for both insured and uninsured patients.

ACOG Statement on the US Supreme Court Decision Upholding the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:06 -0400

Washington, DC -- Despite the fact that the safety advantages of intact dilatation and evacuation (intact D&E) procedures are widely recognized—in medical texts, peer-reviewed studies, clinical practice, and in mainstream, medical care in the United States—the US Supreme Court today upheld the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003.

ACOG Issues Guidelines for Research Involving Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:06 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today reiterated its position on the critical importance of including women in research trials. In a committee opinion issued in the September issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, ACOG emphasized that allowing women to participate in research is absolutely vital to understanding how gender differences affect disease with the ultimate goal of improving women's health.

ACOG Applauds Congressional Introduction of Women's Health Care Reform Plan

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:05 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today applauds Senator Debbie Stabenow and Representative Jan Schakowsky for introducing legislation that calls on Congress and President Obama to enact health care reform that fully addresses the health care needs of women. The resolution is based on ACOG's Health Care for Women, Health Care for All campaign.

ACOG Statement on Single-Dose EC Reformulation

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:05 -0400

Washington, DC -- The US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of a new one-pill formulation of the emergency contraceptive Plan B® represents a positive step forward for women's health, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The new formulation of emergency contraception (EC), called Plan B® One-Step, will simplify this important pregnancy prevention treatment.

ACOG Issues New Opinion on Brand vs. Generic Oral Contraceptives

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:04 -0400

Washington, DC -- A woman should be able to request and obtain the oral contraceptive that she and her doctor decide best addresses her individual needs, according to a new committee opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). If a physician or pharmacist switches a woman's OC prescription for cost, insurance coverage, compliance, or any other reason, she should always be notified.

Ob-Gyns Urged to Help Reduce Health Disparities for Rural Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:04 -0400

Washington, DC -- Lack of access to adequate women's health care puts rural women in the US at a greatly increased risk of poor health outcomes compared with women in urban areas. The physician shortage in rural areas, limited resources at small community hospitals, and patient factors such as lack of insurance or the need to travel long distances to receive care all contribute to major disparities that rural women face, according to a Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Gerald F Joseph Jr MD Appointed VP for Practice Activities

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:03 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today announces Gerald F. Joseph, Jr, MD, as its new Vice President for Practice Activities. The College, headquartered in Washington, DC, is a private, voluntary, nonprofit membership organization of approximately 55,000 members and is the nation's leading group of physicians providing health care for women.

ACOG Applauds Introduction of "Quality Care for Moms and Babies Act"

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:03 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Representative Eliot Engel (D-NY) for introducing the “Quality Care for Moms and Babies Act of 2011.” This bill builds on quality improvement initiatives ACOG has championed, helping improve the childbirth health and safety of moms and babies.

Hal C Lawrence III MD Appointed New EVP

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:02 -0400

Washington, DC -- Hal C. Lawrence III, MD, officially assumes the helm of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today as the new Executive Vice President (EVP). The College, headquartered in Washington, DC, is a private, voluntary, nonprofit membership organization of approximately 55,000 members and is the nation's leading group of physicians providing health care for women.

New Focus on Care for HIV Women as More Live Longer with the Disease

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:01 -0400

Washington, DC -- As the number of women in the US living with HIV/AIDS increases, ob-gyns will need to address their unique contraception, preconception and prenatal care, and general gynecologic requirements. In guidelines issued today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) emphasizes that ob-gyns will play a greater role in providing routine gynecologic care to HIV-infected women as these women live longer, healthier lives.

Supports Womens Access to Universal Health Care

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:04:00 -0400

Washington, DC -- During Cover the Uninsured Week, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reiterates its position that all women should be guaranteed a package of essential benefits that includes primary and preventive care, pregnancy-related and infant care, medically and surgically necessary services, prescription drugs, and catastrophic care. The essential principles for achieving universal care that meets women's lifetime health needs are defined in its Health Care for Women, Health Care for All: A Reform Agenda.

Birth Control Pill Turns 50

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:59 -0400

Washington, DC -- The birth control pill, the most studied medication in the world, reaches its 50-year milestone this month. Since the introduction of the pill in the US, numerous types of hormonal and nonhormonal contraceptives have been developed, all greatly expanding women's birth control options. Originally intended solely for pregnancy prevention, decades of research have shown a host of health benefits from the birth control pill and other forms of hormonal contraception, including cancer prevention and relief from menstruation disorders.

Statement on FDA Patient Safety Communication

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:59 -0400

Washington, DC -- In a response today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) applauds the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) effort in protecting women's health by issuing an update to the serious safety and effectiveness concerns related to transvaginal placement of surgical mesh to repair pelvic organ prolapse. The College shares the FDA's concerns and encourages patients and physicians to review the FDA's White Paper that describes, in detail, the health risks associated with the surgical mesh products when used to treat pelvic organ prolapse.

Alcohol and Pregnancy: Know the Facts

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:58 -0400

Washington, DC -- The recent news story "Can Pregnant Women Drink Alcohol in Moderation?", which aired on ABC's Good Morning America Weekend, has created tremendous confusion among women about the safety of drinking alcohol during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly urges women not to ignore the public health warnings associated with consuming alcohol while pregnant.

Recommendations Relax on Liquid Intake during Labor

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:57 -0400

Washington, DC -- Women in labor may be allowed to quench their thirst with more than just the standard allowance of ice chips, according to a new Committee Opinion released today from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and published in the September issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Although the guidelines on prohibiting solid food while in labor or before scheduled cesarean surgery remain the same, ACOG says that women with uncomplicated labor, as well as uncomplicated patients undergoing a planned cesarean, may drink modest amounts of clear liquids during labor if they wish.

ACOG Applauds HHS for Requiring Insurance Coverage of Key Womens Preventive Health Services

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:57 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the prompt acceptance of the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) recent recommendations that require new health insurance plans to cover vital women's preventive services, at no cost to the patient.

Statement of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists On the FDA's Approval of OTC Status for Plan B®

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:56 -0400

Washington, DC -- In light of the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) decision to approve over-the-counter (OTC) status for Plan B® emergency contraception (EC) for women age 18 and older, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today emphasized the need for unimpeded access to EC for all women of reproductive age. Timely access to emergency contraception is pivotal in reducing the number of unintended pregnancies and abortions in the US.

Interpreting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations for the General Population

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:55 -0400

What are the new recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? The following recommendations for the general population appear in the November 17, 2009, issue of Annals of Internal Medicine

Experts Develop New Risk Assessments for Heart Disease in Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:53 -0400

Washington, DC -- New American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines on the prevention of heart disease in women released today identify a woman's individual risk of cardiovascular disease as either high risk, at risk, or optimal risk. The evidence-based guidelines, developed with and cosponsored by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), refine the different levels of heart disease risk among women. Earlier 2004 guidelines classified women as high, intermediate, lower, and optimal risk based upon clinical criteria and/or the Framingham Global Risk Score.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Issues Opinion on Planned Home Births

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:52 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) issued a Committee Opinion today that says although the absolute risk of planned home births is low, published medical evidence shows it does carry a two- to three-fold increase in the risk of newborn death compared with planned hospital births. A review of the data also found that planned home births among low risk women are associated with fewer medical interventions than planned hospital births.

ACOG Welcomes New Federal Regulations Requiring Free Preventive Health Care Services

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:50 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supports the federal regulations issued on July 14 requiring new private health plans to provide free preventive health services to their enrollees, particularly as it pertains to women's health. ACOG worked closely with Congress to win inclusion of this important part of the Affordable Care Act and applauds the Obama Administration for working so effectively in bringing this protection to our patients.

Ob-Gyns: Prepare to Treat Transgender Patients

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:48 -0400

Washington, DC -- To address the significant health care disparities of transgender individuals and to improve their access to care, ob-gyns should prepare to provide routine treatment and screening or refer them to other physicians, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). In a Committee Opinion published today, The College also states its opposition to gender identity discrimination and supports both public and private health insurance coverage for gender identity disorder treatment.

Keep It Simple Doc

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:47 -0400

Washington, DC -- Attention ob-gyns: Keep messages simple, don't use medical jargon, and tailor health care instructions to each individual when talking with patients, says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) in a new recommendation published in the May issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. When women obtain and understand basic health information, they are more likely to make the most appropriate decisions regarding their health and are less likely to suffer from medical errors.

ACOG Recommends Restricted Use of Episiotomies

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:45 -0400

Washington, DC -- The use of episiotomy during labor should be restricted, with physicians encouraged to use clinical judgment to decide when the procedure is necessary, according to a new Practice Bulletin published by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) in the April issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. According to ACOG, "The best available data do not support the liberal or routine use of episiotomy. Nonetheless, there is a place for episiotomy for maternal or fetal indications such as avoiding severe maternal lacerations or facilitating or expediting difficult deliveries."

Routine Screening Recommendations Released for Annual Well Woman Exam

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:45 -0400

Washington, DC -- An updated schedule of the recommended routine screenings, lab tests, and immunizations for non-pregnant adolescents and women was released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Published in the April issue of I, the timetable groups the periodic health assessments by age range beginning at age 13, and takes into account individual risk factors that may warrant additional screenings or counseling.

ACA Leaves Coverage Gaps for Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:44 -0400

Washington, DC -- Although the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) will increase the number of Americans with health insurance coverage, certain populations of women will continue facing problems getting health care, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College).

Statement on Passage of Health Care Reform

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:44 -0400

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has long been a proponent of comprehensive health care reform and this weeks' enactment of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care for America Act extends health insurance coverage to an additional 32 million Americans. "Ob-gyns see first-hand the devastating effects that the lack of health insurance or underinsurance has on our patients," noted ACOG President Gerald F. Joseph, Jr, MD.

ACOG President Advises Against Unnecessary Obstacles for Women Needing Ultrasound

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:41 -0400

Washington, DC -- Ultrasound is a safe and important tool in women's prenatal and gynecologic care, and Congress should not pass legislation that could delay women's access to diagnosis and treatment for basic health care needs, according to Douglas W. Laube, MD, MEd, president of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), who testified today before the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee.

Women with Cancer Have Options for Preserving Fertility

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:40 -0400

San Francisco, CA -- Young women undergoing cancer treatment have an increasing number of options for preserving their fertility, a leading researcher told attendees today at the 58th Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

ACOG Releases New Recommendations on the Management of Asthma During Pregnancy

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:37 -0400

Washington, DC -- Pregnant asthmatic women should continue to use their asthma medication in the lowest dose possible to manage symptoms during pregnancy, according to a new Practice Bulletin released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Women with moderate or severe asthma should also be monitored throughout pregnancy for fetal growth restriction and signs of preterm birth.

Ob Gyns Encouraged to Screen Women for Depression During and After Pregnancy

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:36 -0400

Washington, DC -- Screening for depression during pregnancy and afterward benefits women, infants, and families, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (the College) and published in the February issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Because pregnancy and the postpartum period are pivotal times to identify women suffering from depression, the College encourages ob-gyns to strongly consider screening for it.

ACOG Joins Opposition to Mandatory HPV Vaccine Requirement for Immigrant Girls and Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:34 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) joins more than 100 organizations representing immigrants' rights, women's rights, public health, medicine, and reproductive justice in urging the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to remove the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine from the list of required vaccinations for female immigrants seeking permanent residence or entry to the US. ACOG also supports the request that the CDC direct the US Office of Citizenship and Immigration Services to suspend the HPV vaccination requirement for immigrants seeking to adjust their immigration status or to obtain visas to the US.

ACOG Directs Attention to Health Risks of Noncoital Sexual Activity

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:32 -0400

Washington, DC -- When counseling patients about preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), it's important for physicians to ask direct questions about both intercourse and noncoital sexual activity, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

ACOG Supports Kerry Legislation to Require Maternity Coverage, End Gender Bias In Individual Market Health Plans

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:26 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist (ACOG) today announced its support of the Women's Health Insurance Fairness Act of 2009, a bill introduced by Senator John Kerry (D-MA) to ensure women receive equitable insurance coverage in health care reform.

Maternal Health Must Become a Priority in Developing Countries

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:24 -0400

Chicago, IL -- "Mothers are the backbones of communities. When they die, children become orphaned, families are fragmented," said Jean Chamberlain Froese, MD, today during the President's Program at The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) 57th Annual Clinical Meeting. Although making pregnancy and childbirth safer in countries where maternal mortality is extraordinarily high can seem like a daunting task, employing practical solutions is possible to improve maternal health and pregnancy outcomes, according to Dr. Froese.

ACOG Files Amicus Brief in Gonzales v. Carhart and Gonzales v. PPFA

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:24 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has filed an amicus brief in support of the challenges to the federal Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003. The United States Supreme Court will hear arguments on November 8, 2006, in two cases that dispute the constitutionality of the Act, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bush in November 2003. The ban has not taken effect because of the legal challenges.

ACOG Statement on Institute of Medicine Report Clinical Preventive Services for Women: Closing the Gaps

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:24 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) applauds the Institute of Medicine (IOM) for recommending private insurance coverage of key women's preventive health care services. "ACOG is pleased that the IOM's recommendations mirror many of our recommendations on best preventive care practices for women's health," said ACOG Executive Vice President Hal C. Lawrence III, MD.

ACOG Calls on Ob-Gyns, Health Care Professionals, Hospitals and Employers for Increased Support for Breastfeeding

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:23 -0400

Washington, DC -- In an effort to help increase the rate of breastfeeding in the US, today The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued a Committee Opinion, "Breastfeeding: Maternal and Infant Aspects," emphasizing ACOG's strong support for breastfeeding and urging ob-gyns, other health care professionals, hospitals, and employers to support women in choosing to breastfeed their infants.

Makena Price Reduction Is Inadequate

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:22 -0400

Washington, DC -- Today K-V Pharmaceutical Company announced that it is reducing the cost of its drug Makena™ from $1,500 per dose to $690 per dose, clearly acknowledging the negative impact of their original pricing strategy. Although this may seem like a relatively significant price reduction, unfortunately it remains a woefully inadequate response. This 'lower' price still remains prohibitively high for a safe and effective treatment that is currently available at a much lower price in the form of compounded 17 hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P).

ACOG Refines Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring Guidelines

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:21 -0400

Washington, DC -- Refinements of the definitions, classifications, and interpretations of fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring methods were issued today in new guidelines released by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The objective of the guidelines is to reduce the inconsistent use of common terminology and the wide variability that sometimes occurs in FHR interpretations. ACOG's Practice Bulletin, published in the July 2009 issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, supports the recommendations of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child and Health Development workshop* on electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) held in April 2008.

Pain Management of Endometriosis

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:20 -0400

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns recommend conservative nonsurgical treatment approaches for treating women with endometriosis-associated pain followed by more invasive procedures if these fail to alleviate pain, according to a newly updated Practice Bulletin published in the July issue of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' journal, Obstetrics & Gynecology. The Practice Bulletin "Management of Endometriosis" includes the latest recommendations on the incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of this common gynecologic health condition.

Ob Gyns Support Growing Trend of Hospitalists

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:20 -0400

Washington, DC -- The rising number of ob-gyn hospitalists in the US holds promise for benefiting both patients and physicians while also maintaining safe and effective care, according to a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Although there are potential limitations to ob-gyn hospitalists, there are many benefits to patients, hospitals, ob-gyns in practice, and the hospitalists themselves.

Vulvar Precancer Cases Increase More Than Fourfold: Ob-Gyns Issue Treatment Recommendations

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:19 -0400

Washington, DC -- Women diagnosed with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) should be treated with surgery, laser ablation, or medical therapy, according to a new Committee Opinion issued jointly today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP). The College and ASCCP issued the recommendations in light of the rising incidence of VIN among US women, particularly those in their 40s.

ACOG Revises Opinion on Cord Blood Banking

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:18 -0400

Washington, DC -- Physicians should give balanced information to their pregnant patients who are considering cord blood banking, presenting both the advantages and disadvantages of public vs. private cord blood banks, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) in a revised Committee Opinion published today in the February issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. ACOG also advises physicians who recruit patients for for-profit cord blood banking to disclose their financial interests or other potential conflicts of interest to pregnant women and their families.

Ob-Gyns Urged to Tackle Patient Safety Issues Head-On

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:17 -0400

Chicago, IL -- Preventing medical errors by changing the culture of medicine is challenging but necessary, according to patient safety expert Robert M. Wachter, MD, who spoke today during The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) 57th Annual Clinical Meeting. Dr. Wachter illustrated practical solutions to help ob-gyns prevent medical errors in both the hospital and private practice and described how aviation offers some useful lessons in this pursuit.

Revised Guidance Issued on Prevention of GBS Infection

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:17 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today issued revised guidelines for the prevention and treatment of perinatal group B streptococcal (GBS) disease. The document summarizes the 2010 US Centers for Disease Control GBS guidelines, which The College has endorsed, and highlights important changes in clinical practice for ob-gyns.

No Link Between Moderate Caffeine Consumption and Miscarriage

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:16 -0400

Washington, DC -- Pregnant women can ease their minds about drinking a cup of coffee or having a soft drink—moderate caffeine consumption doesn't appear to cause miscarriage or preterm birth, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, The College says it remains unclear whether high levels of caffeine consumption have any link to miscarriage, according to its Committee Opinion published in the August Obstetrics & Gynecology.

ACOG's Screening Guidelines on Chromosomal Abnormalities

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:16 -0400

San Diego, CA -- Today experts addressed in further detail new screening guidelines for fetal chromosomal abnormalities at the 55th Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). In January 2007, ACOG revised its guidelines that now recommend offering fetal chromosomal screening to all pregnant women, regardless of age, because of improvements in low-risk, noninvasive screening methods. The experts reviewed what these new recommendations mean, in practical terms, for both women and physicians.

ACOG and ASCCP Issue Joint Opinion on Vulvodynia

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:15 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), along with the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP), today issued a new Committee Opinion on the diagnosis and treatment of vulvodynia, a frustrating and painful disorder for some women and often a complex and difficult problem for physicians to treat. The opinion, adapted from ASCCP's Vulvodynia Guideline (2005), is published in the October issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Joint Recommendations Issued on Use of Vaginal Mesh for POP

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:14 -0400

Washington, DC -- Due to concerns about the safety and efficacy of synthetic mesh placed vaginally for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), its use should be reserved for high-risk women for whom the benefit may justify the risk, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS). In a joint Committee Opinion issued today, the groups also say there is an urgent need for the development of a national registry to track outcomes for all current and future patients who receive vaginal mesh implants.

Family Health History is Important Screening Tool

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:14 -0400

Washington, DC -- All women should have a family health history on file and it should be reviewed and updated regularly, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Family history screening is especially important in reproductive planning.

Pregnant Women with Health Problems Need Care

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:13 -0400

Washington, DC -- Throwing pregnant women in jail or involuntarily committing them to mental health facilities for alcohol and drug abuse problems is ineffective and counterproductive, according to a new committee opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). Physicians should instead work with state legislators to retract punitive mandatory reporting laws and replace them with evidence-based strategies outside the legal system to help pregnant women with addictions.

Contraception — A Basic Health Necessity

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:13 -0400

San Diego, CA -- Ob-gyns today addressed the critical need for increased insurance coverage of contraceptive services for women in the US at a news conference during the 55th Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Speakers discussed the barriers that impede many women from securing contraception and the crippling effect that unintended pregnancy can have on women and society.

ACOG Issues New Guidelines on Managing Stillbirths

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:12 -0400

Washington, DC -- Approximately 1 out of every 160 deliveries in the US ends in stillbirth—a devastating experience for women and their families—yet its causes remain poorly understood. In an effort to help prevent stillbirths by improving the understanding of its risk factors and causes, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today issued a new Practice Bulletin for ob-gyns on the clinical management of stillbirths. The guidelines, published in the March issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, review what is known about stillbirth and highlight the importance of uniform data collection.

ACOG Issues Recommendations on Prevention of Blood Clots in Gynecologic Surgery Patients

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:12 -0400

Washington, DC -- Blood clots are a leading cause of disability and death in patients following surgery, despite medical advances in their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today issued updated evidence-based treatment recommendations to help reduce the incidence of this frequent, but often preventable, cause of death in gynecologic surgery patients. The recommendations detail the risk factors for developing blood clots among surgery patients as well as the treatments to help prevent them.

Guide on Contraceptive Safety Issued for Ob-Gyns

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:11 -0400

Washington, DC -- A new guide for ob-gyns that rates the safety of different contraceptives on a scale of 1 to 4 based on an individual woman's health status, age, and preexisting medical conditions was issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College).

Bad Economy Blamed for Women Delaying Pregnancy and Annual Check-Up

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:10 -0400

Chicago, IL -- As a result of the economy, women are delaying pregnancy as well as their annual well-woman exam, according to a new Gallup Organization survey conducted for The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These significant trends attest to the toll that the economy is taking on women's reproductive health, yet it is not clear whether there will be long-term health consequences for women, according to ob-gyns.

ACOG Applauds Passage of Mikulski Amendment Guaranteeing Coverage of Women's Preventive Health Care

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:07 -0400

Washington, DC -- Gerald F. Joseph, Jr, MD, president of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), applauds today's Senate passage of the Mikulski Women's Health Amendment to HR 3590, the Senate health reform bill. The amendment guarantees coverage and affordability of critical women's preventive health care, including mammography screening for women under the age of 50, and ensures physician involvement in decisions on the need for screening.

Bone Mineral Density Concerns Should Not Discourage Use of Contraceptive Shot

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:07 -0400

Washington, DC -- Concerns about the effects of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA)—the contraceptive shot—on bone mineral density (BMD) should not prevent clinicians from prescribing this method of contraception nor should its use be limited to two years, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Though DMPA has a known link to BMD loss, studies show that most of the loss is temporary and is similar to the BMD loss caused by pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Ob-Gyns and Midwives Seek to Improve Health Care for Women and Their Newborns: Groups Issue Collaborative Practice Statement

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:06 -0400

City Dwelling Women Face Diet and Exercise Challenges

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:06 -0400

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns need to appreciate the unique challenges facing their overweight and obese urban patients when it comes to counseling them about diet and exercise, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In new recommendations issued today, The College says physicians and public health officials should also take into consideration individual behaviors as well as the broader community obstacles to healthy lifestyles in order to help women lose weight.

Women Have Options for Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:05 -0400

Washington, DC -- Although colonoscopy is the preferred method of screening for colorectal cancer, physicians should discuss all screening options with their patients, according to a new Committee Opinion released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Women should be screened using the method that they are most comfortable with and most likely to complete.

ACOG Lauds Court Decision Regarding Emergency Contraception

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:05 -0400

Washington, DC -- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lauds the recent ruling by the Federal District Court in New York ordering the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to make emergency contraception (EC) available without a prescription to women younger than age 18. This ruling reinforces ACOG's long-held position that there is no scientific or medical reason to impose an age restriction for over-the-counter (OTC) availability of EC because it is safe and effective for adolescents and women of all ages.

ACOG Statement on Mississippi's "Personhood Amendment" Proposition 26

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:05 -0400

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly believes that the autonomy of women to make personal health care decisions must be respected. As the nation's leading organization of women's health physicians, dedicated to all aspects of women's health, ACOG supports quality health care appropriate to every woman's needs throughout her life, including the full spectrum of clinical and reproductive services. Mississippi's "Personhood Amendment," Proposition 26, does not respect the autonomy of women and jeopardizes women's health. We urge the citizens of the State of Mississippi to reject this Proposition on November 8th. Proposition 26 substitutes ideology for science and represents a grave threat to women's health and reproductive rights that will have long-term negative outcomes for our patients and society.

ACOG Reiterates Stance on So-Called "Bioidentical" Hormones

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:04 -0400

Washington, DC -- In response to recent media attention being given to so-called bioidentical hormones, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) reiterates its position that there is no scientific evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of compounded bioidentical hormones.

Depression During Pregnancy: Treatment Recommendations

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:04 -0400

Washington, DC -- Pregnant women with depression face complicated treatment decisions because of the risks associated with both untreated depression and the use of antidepressants. A new report from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) attempts to help doctors and patients weigh the risks and benefits of various treatment options.

Ob Gyns Recommend HPV Vaccination for Young Girls

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:03 -0400

Washington, DC -- Girls ages 11 to 12 should receive either of the two FDA-approved vaccines to prevent cervical cancer, ideally before they become sexually active, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In its recommendations issued today, The College emphasizes that routine Pap screening is still necessary for all women beginning at age 21, including those who have had the cervical cancer vaccine.

Medical Groups Denounce HHS Decision on Access to Emergency Contraception

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:03 -0400

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) and the Society of Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM) denounce the decision today by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to overrule an evidence-based decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve an application for over-the-counter access without age restriction to the emergency contraception (EC) product Plan B One-Step. This move defies the strong data that EC is safe and effective for all females of reproductive age.

Ob Gyns Outline Benefits and Challenges of Electronic Health Records

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:03 -0400

Washington, DC -- Although financial and staff-related concerns have hindered the full-scale adoption of electronic health records (EHR) by physicians, the technology can help ob-gyns improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of the care they provide women, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College). The College cautions, however, that despite the many benefits of computerized patient records, even the best EHRs are not a substitute for listening to patients.

Fight Prematurity with Awareness - Longer Pregnancies Ob-Gyns Say

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:02 -0400

Washington, DC -- Prematurity is a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality in the US. While many preterm births are spontaneous, some babies that could be born at full-term are delivered early. During National Prematurity Awareness Month in November, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) encourages women to become familiar with the signs of preterm labor and reminds women and ob-gyns to aim for delivery at or after 39 weeks of gestation for the best health outcomes for newborns.

Routine HIV Screening Recommended for All Women, Regardless of Individual Risk Factors

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:01 -0400

Washington, DC -- Ob-gyns should routinely screen all women between the ages of 19 and 64 for HIV, regardless of their risk factors, according to a Committee Opinion, Routine Human Immunodeficiency Virus Screening, issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Implementation of this screening recommendation will be a dramatic shift for some ob-gyn practices, especially those that are currently testing only pregnant patients, patients at high risk, and/or upon patient request.

All Patients Should be Asked About Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:01 -0400

Washington, DC -- Drug and alcohol abuse is a major health problem for American women, cutting across all income levels, ages, and races/ethnicities. In a committee opinion issued today, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is calling for ob-gyns to ask all of their patients about drug and alcohol use and to help women get the help they need. Although time constraints, unfamiliarity with treatment resources, poor reimbursement, and legal reporting requirements are all legitimate concerns, substance abuse is a medical issue and a physician's responsibility. Universal substance abuse screening can be as simple as adding a few questions to a standard patient intake form.

Routine Screening for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Recommended

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:03:00 -0400

Washington, DC -- Evaluating a patient's risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome is an important first step in cancer prevention and early detection and should be a routine part of ob-gyn practice. Those who are likely to have the syndrome should be referred for further assessment to a clinician with expertise in genetics, according to a new Practice Bulletin jointly released today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists. The new document also provides information on how to counsel patients with hereditary risk in cancer prevention and how to perform surgical removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes in this population.

Annual Mammograms Now Recommended for Women Beginning at Age 40

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:59 -0400

Washington, DC -- Due to the high incidence of breast cancer in the US and the potential to reduce deaths from it when caught early, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) today issued new breast cancer screening guidelines that recommend mammography screening be offered annually to women beginning at age 40. Previous College guidelines recommended mammograms every one to two years starting at age 40 and annually beginning at age 50.

New Recommendations to Prevent Blood Clots During Cesarean Deliveries Issued

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:58 -0400

Washington, DC -- In an effort to reduce maternal mortality due to blood clots—a leading cause of maternal death in the US—The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) now recommends that all women having a cesarean delivery receive preventive intervention at the time of delivery. The new recommendation was released today along with updated guidance for the prevention, management, and treatment of blood clots during pregnancy.

ACOG Statement on Revised US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations On Breast Cancer Screening

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:58 -0400

Washington, DC -- In response to today's US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) statement that recommends against routine mammography screening for women in their 40s and recommends screening only once every two years for women ages 50 to 74, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) maintains its current advice that women in their 40s continue mammography screening every one to two years and women age 50 or older continue annual screening. The USPSTF revised recommendations are published in the November 17, 2009, issue of Annals of Internal Medicine.

ACOG Opposes Sex Selection for Family Planning Purposes

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:56 -0400

Washington, DC -- Helping patients to choose the sex of their offspring to avoid serious sex-linked genetic disorders is considered ethical for doctors, but participating in sex selection for personal and family reasons, such as family balancing, is not, according to an opinion issued today by the Committee on Ethics of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The Committee concludes that the ethical objection to sex selection based solely on family balancing or personal preference holds, regardless of the timing of the selection (ie, preconception or postconception) or the stage of development of the embryo or fetus, because such requests may ultimately support sexist practices.

Luella Klein MD Receives Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:55 -0400

Washington, DC -- In honor of a career devoted to the advancement of women's health, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) presented the first ever Luella Klein Lifetime Achievement Award to the award's namesake, Luella Klein, MD. The award, which recognizes an ob-gyn who has dedicated his or her life in a significant way to women's health, was presented today at ACOG's Council of District Chairs meeting. Dr. Klein also received the 2011 Outstanding District Service Award for ACOG's District IV (MD, VA, DC, WV, NC, SC, GA, FL, PR).

All Women Should Be Offered Cystic Fibrosis Screening Regardless of Ethnicity

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:53 -0400

Washington, DC -- Preconception and prenatal cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier screening should be made available to all women of reproductive age as a routine part of obstetric care, according to a revised Committee Opinion issued by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In addition to an update of current guidance for CF screening practices, the document discusses counseling strategies, special reproductive health considerations for women with CF, and clinical management recommendations.

New Recommendations for Down Syndrome Call for Offering Screening to All Pregnant Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:53 -0400

Washington, DC -- All pregnant women, regardless of their age, should be offered screening for Down syndrome, according to a new Practice Bulletin issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Previously, women were automatically offered genetic counseling and diagnostic testing for Down syndrome by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) if they were 35 years and older.

Most Antibiotics Are Safe During Pregnancy

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:52 -0400

Washington, DC -- In 2009, researchers from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study published a report suggesting that two types of commonly prescribed antibiotics used to treat urinary tract infections—nitrofurans and sulfonamides—may increase the risk of birth defects when taken during the first trimester. However, a new Committee Opinion issued today by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) suggests that these two antibiotics are still considered appropriate when there is no suitable alternative.

Routine Thyroid Screening Not Recommended for Pregnant Women

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:52 -0400

Washington, DC -- In response to a debate over whether all pregnant women should be screened for subclinical hypothyroid disease, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today recommended against routine screening in a Committee Opinion in the October issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. ACOG says there is no evidence that identifying and treating pregnant women with subclinical hypothyroidism improves either maternal or infant outcomes.

Routine Screening for Vitamin D Deficiency During Pregnancy Not Recommended

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:51 -0400

Washington, DC -- There isn't enough good evidence to support routinely screening all pregnant women for vitamin D deficiency says The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (The College) in a new Committee Opinion in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology. Most pregnant women can help ensure they're getting enough vitamin D through prenatal vitamins.

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ACOG News Releases

Maternal and Child Health Advocates Decry Impact of Proposed Budget Cuts

Groups Announce Ambitious Maternal Health Initiative

Protocol at Stamford Hospital Reduces Elective Inductions

High Protein, Low Carb Diets Greatly Improve Fertility

ACOG Elects New Officers

Jeanne A. Conry, MD 64th President of The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Growing Acceptance of Removing Fallopian Tubes But Keeping Ovaries to Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk

Transferring Single Prescreened Embryo in IVF Offers Excellent Delivery Rates

Study Finds Adverse Effects of Pitocin in Newborns

Two-Thirds of US Hospitals Now Restricting Non-Medically Indicated Delivery Before 39 Weeks

Drug Combination for Headache During Pregnancy Shows Promise

Rx Contraceptives Most Expensive in Florida’s Low-Income Zip Codes

Synthetic Marijuana Mimics Preeclampsia and Eclampsia in Pregnancy

Half of Women Unaware that Pregnancy Is More Dangerous Than Contraception

Restricting Elective Inductions Reduces Cesareans

‘Hard-Stop’ Policy Nearly Eliminates NICU Admissions from Elective Inductions

Reproductive Coercion Prevalent Regardless of Socioeconomic and Educational Background

New Moms Welcome Contraceptive Counseling by Pediatricians at Well-Baby Visit

17P Plus Cerclage Decreases Preterm Labor Risk

‘Hard-Stop’ Policy Against Early Elective Deliveries Improves Outcomes

Depression, Anxiety Rates High Among Hospitalized Pregnant Women on Bed Rest

Social Networks and Peer Education Improve Knowledge, Attitudes About LARC

Awards Presented at the 61st Annual Clinical Meeting of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Bowel Problems Very Common In Pregnancy

Medical Groups Denounce Administration’s Appeal of Emergency Contraception Ruling

Statement on FDA Approval of OTC Emergency Contraception

Statement on State Legislation Requiring Hospital Admitting Privileges for Physicians Providing Abortion Services

ACOG Elects New Officers

All Women Need Antibiotics One Hour Before Cesarean Delivery

Medical Groups Praise Court Ruling Lifting Age Restriction on Emergency Contraception

Statement by The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on North Dakota Abortion Laws

Early Deliveries Without Medical Indications: Just Say No

Vaginal Delivery Recommended Over Maternal-Request Cesarean

Chlamydia Screening Rates Too Low, Reinfection Rates Too High

Statement on Robotic Surgery by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD

Women's Health Legislation Introduced in US Congress

Sandra A. Carson, MD, Appointed Vice President for Education

Winter 2013 pause Magazine Now Online

Top Five Tests and Procedures to Question in Ob-Gyn

Statement by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD

Contraceptive Sabotage Not Uncommon

ACOG, AAP Develop First Collaborative Physician-Focused Breastfeeding Handbook

ACOG Commends President and Congress for Standing up for Servicewomen

2013

Pregnancy and Weight Gain: How Much Is Too Little?

ACOG Request to HHS: Revisit OTC EC Decision

New Prenatal Blood Test Promising

Ob-Gyns Recommend Women Wait 3 to 5 Years Between Pap Tests

Ob-Gyns Want the Pill Available OTC

Pregnant? Your Flu Vaccine Due Date Is Now

Time to Clamp the Cord?

Women on Medicaid Face Unfair Barriers to Sterilization Requests

Statement on Rape and Pregnancy

SCOPE Certification Applications Now Being Accepted

The College Hosts Leadership Council of Saving Mothers, Giving Life

Ob-Gyns Join Partnership in Saving Mothers, Giving Life Global Initiative

Response to Politician's Inaccurate Abortion Comments

Potential Increased Blood Clot Risk with Newest OCs

ACOG Statement on “Personhood” Measures

ACOG Applauds House Passage of HR 5 Protecting Access to Health Care Act

GirlSmarts Website, Interconception Care Project Recognized for Outstanding Contributions to Ob-Gyn

Osteoporosis Guidelines Issued

Opioid Abuse During Pregnancy Spurs Medical Treatment Guidance

Ob-Gyns: Too Many Barriers to EC

Ob-Gyns Partner with Text4Baby

Ob-Gyns Discourage Personalized Genetic Tests

Ob-Gyns Address Impact of Breast Cancer Treatments

No to Routine Lead Testing of Pregnant Women

Nancy C. Chescheir, MD, Selected New Editor of Obstetrics & Gynecology

Medical Liability Climate Hurts Patients and Ob-Gyns

Medical Groups Release New Cervical Screening Guidance

Letter to the Editor USA Today

Letter to the Editor New York Times

Lesbians Have Same Gynecologic Health Needs as Heterosexuals

Op-Ed "Universal Access to Contraception Could Be A Life Saver" by ACOG President James T. Breeden, MD, The Las Vegas Review-Journal, July 22, 2012

James T. Breeden, MD 63rd President The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

IUDs and Contraceptive Implants Safe for Teens

IPV: An Under-Recognized Public Health Epidemic

Essential Elements of Annual Well-Woman Visit Issued