Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and menstrual irregularities, leading to infertility in many women. Emerging evidence suggests intermittent fasting (IF), particularly time-restricted feeding (TRF), may improve reproductive and metabolic outcomes in women with PCOS by addressing core pathophysiological mechanisms. This systematic review examines the impact of IF on fertility and reproductive hormones in women with PCOS. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library using predefined search terms related to intermittent fasting, fertility, and PCOS. Eligible studies published between 2014 and 2024 were identified following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Inclusion criteria targeted primary research evaluating the effects of IF on reproductive outcomes, menstrual irregularities, and metabolic parameters in women with PCOS. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Caldwell framework. Three studies were included in the review. TRF interventions led to significant improvements in menstrual regularity, with 33-40 % of participants reporting normalized cycles. Reductions in total testosterone, free androgen index, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were observed, alongside increased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). TRF also improved insulin sensitivity, reduced body weight, and decreased inflammatory markers, all of which contribute to enhanced reproductive outcomes. Key outcomes included a 9 % reduction in testosterone levels, 26 % reduction in the free androgen index (FAI), and significant improvements in menstrual regularity (33-40 %). Intermittent fasting, particularly TRF, shows potential as a non-pharmacological intervention to improve reproductive health and fertility in women with PCOS. By targeting hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and menstrual irregularities, TRF offers a promising lifestyle approach. However, larger randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these findings and establish IF as a standard therapeutic option for PCOS management.

In the context of evolving perceptions of sexuality, particularly within the realm of health and disability, this study investigates the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on female sexual function and quality of life. A quantitative study involving 130 female MS patients aged 35 to 50 was conducted, employing measures such as The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results indicate a significant association between greater sexual dysfunction and poorer quality of sex life, alongside the correlation of increased fatigue with diminished sexual satisfaction. Specifically, the mean FSFI score was 20.8 (SD = 9.36), with 83.8% of participants experiencing severe fatigue (FSS score ≥ 36). Sexual dysfunction demonstrated a strong, negative correlation with all FSFI subscales (p < 0.01). Factors such as education level (p = 0.016), time of diagnosis (p = 0.035), and treatment regimen (p = 0.041) also significantly influenced outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of supportive interventions, including counseling, to enhance the quality of sex life for women with disabilities, particularly those with MS.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in Greece, focusing on estimating prevalence and identifying regional disparities in children aged 4 to 7 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory methodology, the research employed a structured questionnaire to gather extensive maternal and child health data. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 517 mothers of children diagnosed with ASD from all over Greece, contributing to a nuanced understanding of ASD predictors. This study aims to elucidate the role of prenatal factors in the likelihood of an ASD diagnosis and their impact on the subsequent functionality of children with ASD. The study identified significant predictors of lower functionality in children with ASD, including higher maternal age, delayed ASD diagnosis, lower family income, and higher birth order. Prenatal health issues, such as vaginal bleeding and infections, also influenced functional outcomes. Notably, a family history of neurological or psychiatric conditions appeared protective. DISCUSSION: The regression model demonstrated robust predictive power, underscoring the complexity of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in ASD development. The findings advocate for early diagnosis and intervention, systematic screening, and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve functional outcomes. The results support evidence-based service development and policy adjustments to enhance early identification, intervention, and rehabilitation for children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS: Establishing standardized case-recording procedures and an ASD register at national and regional levels is recommended for systematic monitoring and resource evaluation.

In the context of evolving perceptions of sexuality, particularly within the realm of health and disability, this study investigates the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on female sexual function and quality of life. A quantitative study involving 130 female MS patients aged 35 to 50 was conducted, employing measures such as The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results indicate a significant association between greater sexual dysfunction and poorer quality of sex life, alongside the correlation of increased fatigue with diminished sexual satisfaction. Factors such as education level, time of diagnosis, and treatment regimen also influenced outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of supportive interventions, including counseling, to enhance the quality of sex life for women with disabilities, particularly those with MS.

Women with sensory disabilities, including deafness and blindness, face significant barriers to equitable healthcare in pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care. Representing over 5% of the global population-a number expected to rise-these women often encounter discrimination, limited information access, and inadequate childbirth support, increasing pregnancy-related risks. This systematic review examines childbirth methods for women with sensory disabilities and the healthcare barriers they face during prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal periods. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 methodology, searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, BioMed Central, and Cochrane Library databases. From 270 relevant studies, 10 met the inclusion criteria, comprising 8 quantitative and 2 qualitative studies. All studies were critically appraised using the Caldwell framework. The review identified that women with sensory disabilities, particularly those who are deaf or blind, experience higher rates of caesarean sections compared to women without disabilities. However, a significant proportion of women in this demographic group successfully deliver vaginally. The review also highlighted substantial healthcare barriers, including inadequate communication between patients and healthcare providers, limited information regarding childbirth options, and insufficient postnatal care. Discrimination and obstetric violence were reported in several studies, further exacerbating the healthcare experiences of these women. This study highlights the urgent need for healthcare systems to enhance communication, accessibility, and support for women with sensory disabilities. An equity and inclusion framework in maternal care should ensure that these women receive adequate and respectful healthcare. Addressing these gaps will improve outcomes for mothers and newborns and reduce discrimination and inequitable treatment.

This study investigates Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Greece, focusing on estimating prevalence and identifying regional disparities in children aged 4 to 7 years. Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive, and exploratory methodology, the research employed a structured questionnaire to gather extensive maternal and child health data. The sample consisted of 517 mothers of children diagnosed with ASD from all over Greece contributing to a nuanced understanding of ASD predictors. The study aims to elucidate the role of prenatal factors in the likelihood of an ASD diagnosis and their impact on the subsequent functionality of children with ASD. The study identified significant predictors of lower functionality in children with ASD, including higher maternal age, delayed ASD diagnosis, lower family income, and higher birth order. Prenatal health issues, such as vaginal bleeding and infections, also influenced functional outcomes. Notably, a family history of neurological or psychiatric conditions appeared protective. The regression model demonstrated robust predictive power, underscoring the complexity of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in ASD development. The findings advocate for early diagnosis and intervention, systematic screening, and addressing socioeconomic disparities to improve functional outcomes. The results support evidence-based service development and policy adjustments to enhance early identification, intervention, and rehabilitation for children with ASD. Establishing standardized case-recording procedures and an ASD register at national and regional levels is recommended for systematic monitoring and resource evaluation.