This is a national study comparing the effectiveness and subsequent quality of life for patients who undergo surgial treatments -- hysterectomy and endometrial ablation -- to stop excessive menstrual bleeding. Enrollment ends approximately April 30, 2001.

The purpose of this study is to investigate how preeclampsia causes increased blood pressure in pregnant women. We will be comparing changes in blood vessels between normal pregnant women with preeclampsia and looking at certain markers in blood.

We are recruiting women 36-40 weeks pregnant who are nonsmokers and have no history of high blood pressure. The procedures will take about one hour and you will be reimbursed for your time and convenience.

We are also recruiting women who have been diagnosed with preeclampsia.

All pregnant women at 28 weeks gestation have blood drawn for a glucola rest. We ask your permission to keep any remaining blood left over from the blood sample so that we may set it aside and freeze it. If you deliver your baby at MCV, the stored blood will be analyzed for markers of preeclampsia and your medical record will be checked to see whether or nto you developed preeclampsia. By measuring levels of these substances (markers) in women who eventually developed preeclampsia and comparing them to women who did not, a reliable clinical test to determine women at risk could be developed.

The purpose of this study is to determine if Vitamins E and C decrease the likelihood of developing preeclampsia in pregnant women at risk for this disease. To be eligible for this study you must be approximately 18-20 weeks pregnant and have an increased risk of developing preeclampsia. The study will require 5-6 visits, depending on your delivery date. The study doctor will also perform your routine prenatal care during these visits which take place at the General Clinical Research Center here at MCV. You will be randomly assigned to receive either Vitamins E and C or a placebo. An ultraound exam will also be done at each visit to determine the size of the blood vessel in your arm.

The purpose of this study is to see if a medication, metformin, can decrease the blood levels of free fatty acids thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. To be eligible for this study, you must be diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarary Syndrome. This study requires two visits to the General Clinical Research Center about 7 weeks apart. Blood will be drawn at each visit. You will be compensated for your time and inconvenience.