Interventions to Reduce Risk of Perineal Tearing

Perineal tearing is one of the most common injuries that can be sustained during vaginal delivery, it can be physically and mentally debilitating for the mother to endure. Preventing this injury can lead to an easier healing process for the mother, allowing her to have a more impactful postpartum journey. There is debate as to whether warm compresses, perineal massage, and alternative birthing positions decrease the incidence of perineal tearing. This review of literature focuses on how these interventions work and if they are effective at decreasing the risk for perineal tearing during vaginal delivery

Semaglutide vs Bariatric Surgery Usage in Individuals who are Obese

Obesity is a complex health disease with rising prevalence. Comorbid conditions occur as a result of obesity that may be detrimental to an individual’s health. While theoretically preventable, it is a difficult condition to manage due to a wide range of causative factors and comorbidities. There are many options to help with weight loss, but two of the most effective treatments are semaglutide medication and bariatric surgery. A literature review was conducted to compare the risks and benefits of each method and identify the more beneficial intervention for weight loss in individuals with obesity. Each method is efficient for a certain population; semaglutide is the most beneficial for individuals who are attempting to initiate weight loss or do not qualify for other treatments, and bariatric surgery is useful in patients diagnosed with morbid obesity or with comorbid health conditions. The review also looked at the benefits and risks of using each method in adolescent individuals with obesity. The reduction of obesity in the adolescent population is associated with better health outcomes in adult life. It was concluded that the most favorable effects on weight loss may be achieved through combination therapy of semaglutide, bariatric surgery, or both, along with lifestyle changes

Efficacy of a Low FODMAP Diet and Probiotics in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adults

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease characterized by abdominal pain in relation to altered bowel habits. Theories regarding the mechanisms underlying IBS include poor absorption of foods containing fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs), leading to a build-up of gas, and an altered intestinal barrier due to the overabundance of pathogenic bacteria. A diet low in FODMAPs and adjuvant therapy with probiotics may reduce symptoms in some individuals. This presentation examines the efficacy of a low FODMAP diet, supplementation with probiotics, and a combination of the two in the treatment of IBS in adults