Endometriosis occurs in approximately 10% of adult women worldwide; however, it is commonly under- or misdiagnosed in adolescents. The purpose of this study was to analyze existing scientific literature for reasons for diagnostic delay of endometriosis and to determine how education regarding endometriosis could be improved. An integrative review was conducted based on articles published between December 1980 and December 2020. Suitable articles were identified from the MEDLINE/PubMed databases, using relevant terms. Eligible studies included discussion on potential causes of diagnostic delay of endometriosis in the adolescent population. Data were extracted from eligible publications and qualitative synthesis was used. The 27 articles included in the study revealed several primary reasons for the delay, such as a physician and/or patient knowledge gap, normalization by physician and patient, lack of research, and physician resistance. Strategies to lessen diagnostic delay of endometriosis in adolescents must include integrated actions by educators and healthcare providers to improve health literacy and awareness of common causes of pelvic pain in this age group.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is systolic heart failure in a woman who is pregnant or in the early postpartum period. There are multiple theories regarding the pathophysiology of this disease, and it is suspected the true cause is a combination of these theories. Presenting symptoms are similar to that of systolic heart failure from other causes and must be carefully differentiated from normal changes that occur during pregnancy. PPCM may progress to chronic heart failure and result in various complications if not treated early. This paper offers a comprehensive review of currently accepted pathophysiologic theories, major signs and symptoms, possible complications and treatments of PPCM.