Search

With approximately 145 million births occurring worldwide each year-over 30 million by cesarean delivery (CD), the need for evaluation of maternal and perinatal outcomes in different delivery scenarios is more pressing than ever. Recently, in a meta-analysis of the available randomized controlled trials, planned CD was associated with significantly decreased rates of low umbilical artery pH, and neonatal complications such as birth trauma, tube feeding, and hypotonia when compared to planned vaginal delivery (VD). Among singleton pregnancies, planned CD was associated with a significantly lower rate of perinatal death. For mothers, planned CD was associated with significantly less chorioamnionitis, more wound infection, and less urinary incontinence at 1 to 2 years. Conversely, planned VD has been associated with benefits such as a lower incidence of wound infection and quicker postpartum recovery compared to planned CD. Nonetheless, several risk factors for CD are increasing-such as older maternal age, obesity, diabetes, excessive gestational weight gain, and birth weight-while maternal pelvises are getting smaller. Concerns about the potential long-term risks of multiple cesarean deliveries, such as placenta accreta spectrum disorders, highlight the need for a balanced evaluation of both delivery modes. However, the total fertility rate is decreasing in the US and around the world, with many people wanting two or fewer babies, which decreases future risk of placenta accreta incurred by multiple cesarean deliveries in these individuals. Furthermore, one in four obstetricians-gynecologists has undergone a CD on maternal request for their nulliparous, singleton, term, vertex (NSTV) pregnancy, and CD rates less than about 19% have been associated with higher perinatal and maternal mortality. Thus, we propose that it is imperative that we prioritize conducting randomized trials to compare planned cesarean to planned VD for NSTV pregnancies. Such trials would need to include 8000 or more individuals; they would ideally follow each participant to the end of their reproductive life and study perinatal and maternal outcomes, including nonbiologic outcomes such as patient satisfaction, postpartum depression, breastfeeding rates, mother-infant bonding, post-traumatic stress, and cost-effectiveness. The time for such a trial is now, as it holds the potential to inform and improve obstetrical care practices globally. El resumen está disponible en Español al final del artículo., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Compared to traditional fetal heart rate monitoring (FHR) for the outpatients in clinic, remote FHR monitoring shows real-time assessment of fetal wellbeing at home. The clinical function of remote FHR monitoring in pregnant wome in outpatient is still unclear., Objective: To explore the feasibility of remote FHR self-monitoring in singleton pregnant women from southern China., Study Design: This prospective cohort study was conducted at one tertiary center in southern China. Pregnant women used a mobile cardiotocogram device to measure the FHR at least once a week until delivery in the remote group. For the control group, pregnant women underwent traditional FHR monitoring once a week in the outpatient clinic. The rate of cesarean section, risk of postpartum hemorrhage and adverse neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. All the pregnant women completed a questionnaire survey to evaluate their acquisition of remote FHR self-monitoring., Results: Approximately 500 women were recruited in the remote FHR self-monitoring group (remote group), and 567 women were recruited in the traditional FHR monitoring group (control group). The women in the remote FHR monitoring group were more likely to be nulliparous (P < 0.001), more likely to have a higher education level (P < 0.001) and more likely to be at high risk (P = 0.003). There was no significant difference in the risk of cesarean section (P = 0.068) or postpartum hemorrhage (P = 0.836) between the two groups. No difference in fetal complications was observed across groups, with the exception of the incidence of NICU stays, which was higher in the remote group (12.0% vs. 8.3%, P = 0.044). The questionnaire survey showed that the interval time (P = 0.001) and cost (P = 0.010) of fetal heart rate monitoring were lower in the remote group. Regarding age, prepregnancy BMI, risk factors, education level, maternal risk and household income, senior high school (OR 2.86, 95% CI 1.67-4.90, P < 0.001), undergraduate (OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.73-5.06, P < 0.001), advanced maternal age (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.07-1.89, P = 0.015) and high-risk pregnancy (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.11-2.35, P = 0.013) were independent factors for pregnant women to choose remote fetal monitoring. Multiparty (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.21-0.51, P < 0.001), full-time motherhood (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.33-0.678, P < 0.001) and high household income (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.50-0.88, P = 0.004) were negatively correlated with the choice of remote FHR self-monitoring., Conclusion: Remote FHR self-monitoring technology has a lower cost and shows potential clinical efficacy for the outpatient setting in southern China. This approach does not increase the risk of cesarean section or adverse neonatal outcomes. It is acceptable among nulliparous pregnant women with a high education level, high household income or high risk. Further research is needed to assess the impact of this technology on obstetric outcomes in different health settings., (© 2023. BioMed Central Ltd., part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: To compare cesarean delivery rates and indications by race/ethnicity among nulliparous women with term, singleton, vertex presentation deliveries., Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of nulliparous women delivering term, singleton, vertex neonates at Kaiser Permanente Northern California from 1/1/2016 to 6/30/2017. Women with cesarean for elective, malpresentation, or previa were excluded. Multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for maternal, neonatal, and facility factors were used to assess the likelihood of cesarean by race/ethnicity. Further modeling was performed to examine odds of cesarean for the indications of failure to progress and fetal intolerance by race/ethnicity., Results: The cohort of 16,587 racially/ethnically diverse women meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria consisted of 41.62% White, 27.73% Asian, 22.11% Hispanic, 5.32% Black, and 3.21% multiple race/other women. In adjusted logistic regression models, all race and ethnic categories had higher odds of cesarean deliveries in comparison to White women. Black women had the highest odds of cesarean delivery (adjusted OR [aOR] = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.45-2.06), followed by Asian (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.45-2.06), multiple race/other (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.17-1.80), and Hispanic (aOR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.28-1.59) women. Compared with White women, Asian (aOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.22-1.74) and Hispanic (aOR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.03-1.52) women had higher odds of failure to progress as the indication. Among women with failure to progress, Black (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.30-0.81), Hispanic (aOR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.53-0.87), and Asian (aOR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61-0.96) women were less likely than White women to reach 10 cm dilation. Compared with White women, Black women were more likely to have cesarean delivery for fetal intolerance (aOR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.10-2.07). Among women with fetal intolerance of labor, there were no significant differences by race/ethnicity for Apgar score or neonatal intensive care unit admission., Conclusions: Race/ethnicity was significantly associated with the odds of cesarean and indication. All other race/ethnicity groups had higher odds of cesarean compared with White women. Compared with White women, Black women had greater odds of fetal intolerance as an indication, while Hispanic and Asian women had greater odds of failure to progress. Maternal, neonate, and facility factors for cesarean delivery did not explain the observed disparities in cesarean delivery rates., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Study Question: Is there an association between the different endometrial preparation protocols for frozen embryo transfer (FET) and obstetric and perinatal outcomes?, Summary Answer: Programmed FET protocols were associated with a significantly higher risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), pre-eclampsia (PE), post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) and cesarean section (CS) when compared with natural FET protocols., What Is Known Already: An important and growing source of concern regarding the use of FET on a wide spectrum of women, is represented by its association with obstetric and perinatal complications. However, reasons behind these increased risks are still unknown and understudied., Study Design, Size, Duration: Systematic review with meta-analysis. We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus, from database inception to 1 November 2021. Published randomized controlled trials, cohort and case control studies were all eligible for inclusion. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The quality of evidence was also evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach., Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Studies were included only if investigators reported obstetric and/or perinatal outcomes for at least two of the following endometrial preparation protocols: programmed FET cycle (PC-FET) (i.e. treatment with hormone replacement therapy (HRT)); total natural FET cycle (tNC-FET); modified natural FET cycle (mNC-FET); stimulated FET cycle (SC-FET)., Main Results and the Role of Chance: Pooled results showed a higher risk of HDP (12 studies, odds ratio (OR) 1.90; 95% CI 1.64-2.20; P < 0.00001; I2 = 50%) (very low quality), pregnancy-induced hypertension (5 studies, OR 1.46; 95% CI 1.03-2.07; P = 0.03; I2 = 0%) (very low quality), PE (8 studies, OR 2.11; 95% CI 1.87-2.39; P < 0.00001; I2 = 29%) (low quality), placenta previa (10 studies, OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.05-1.54; P = 0.01; I2 = 8%) (very low quality), PPH (6 studies, OR 2.53; 95% CI 2.19-2.93; P < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) (low quality), CS (12 studies, OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.53-1.71; P < 0.00001; I2 = 48%) (very low quality), preterm birth (15 studies, OR 1.19; 95% CI 1.09-1.29; P < 0.0001; I2 = 47%) (very low quality), very preterm birth (7 studies, OR 1.63; 95% CI 1.23-2.15; P = 0.0006; I2 = 21%) (very low quality), placenta accreta (2 studies, OR 6.29; 95% CI 2.75-14.40; P < 0.0001; I2 = 0%) (very low quality), preterm premature rupture of membranes (3 studies, OR 1.84; 95% CI 0.82-4.11; P = 0.14; I2 = 61%) (very low quality), post-term birth (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.25-2.90; P = 0.003; I2 = 73%) (very low quality), macrosomia (10 studies, OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05-1.32; P = 0.007; I2 = 45%) (very low quality) and large for gestational age (LGA) (14 studies, OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.01-1.16; P = 0.02; I2 = 50%) (very low quality), in PC-FET pregnancies when compared with NC (tNC + mNC)-FET pregnancies. However, after pooling of ORs adjusted for the possible confounding variables, the endometrial preparation by HRT maintained a significant association in all sub-analyses exclusively with HDP, PE, PPH (low quality) and CS (very low quality)., Limitations, Reasons for Caution: The principal limitation concerns the heterogeneity across studies in: (i) timing and dosage of HRT; (ii) embryo stage at transfer; and (iii) inclusion of preimplantation genetic testing cycles. To address it, we undertook subgroup analyses by pooling only ORs adjusted for a specific possible confounding factor., Wider Implications of the Findings: Endometrial preparation protocols with HRT were associated with worse obstetric and perinatal outcomes. However, because of the methodological weaknesses, recommendations for clinical practice cannot be made. Well conducted prospective studies are thus warranted to establish a safe endometrial preparation strategy for FET cycles aimed at limiting superimposed risks in women with an 'a priori' high-risk profile for obstetric and perinatal complications., Study Funding/competing Interest(s): None., Registration Number: CRD42021249927., (© The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: Female genital mutilation (FGM) has been associated with adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes, such as postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), perineal trauma, genital fistulae, obstructed labour and stillbirth. The prevalence of FGM has increased in the UK over the last decade. There are currently no studies available that have explored the obstetric impact of FGM in the UK. The aim of our study was to investigate the obstetric and neonatal outcomes of women with FGM when compared with the general population., Methods: We conducted a retrospective case-control study of consecutive pregnant women with FGM over a 5-year period between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2013. Each woman with FGM was matched for age, ethnicity, parity and gestation with subsequent patients without FGM (control cohort) over the same 5-year period. Outcomes assessed were mode of delivery, duration of labour, estimated blood loss, analgaesia, perineal trauma and foetal outcomes., Results: A total of 242 eligible women (121 FGM, 121 control) were identified for the study. There was a significant increase in the use of episiotomy in the FGM group (p = 0.009) and a significant increase in minor PPH in the control group during caesarean sections (p = 0.0001). There were no differences in all other obstetric and neonatal parameters., Conclusions: In our unit, FGM was not associated with an increased incidence of adverse obstetric and foetal morbidity or mortality.

Objective: To measure key obstetric and neonatal outcomes recorded at a tertiary hospital in Zambia over a 5-year period., Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted among women who had delivered at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2012. Data were extracted from electronic medical records. The main outcomes were maternal mortality, cesarean delivery, prenatal or intrapartum hemorrhage, stillbirth, a 5-minute Apgar score of less than 7, and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit., Results: A total of 62 470 deliveries were recorded. Rates of maternal mortality, cesarean delivery, and hemorrhage during pregnancy all declined over time. Decreased admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit were observed; however, the rate spiked temporarily in late 2011 and early 2012 before returning to previous levels. The proportion of stillbirths remained stable over time but reports of a 5-minute Apgar score of less than 7 rose., Conclusion: Routinely collected obstetric and neonatal data could aid ongoing program monitoring and should be used to guide quality improvement activities., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest., (© 2016 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.)

Background: Preterm birth is the major cause of perinatal mortality in the United States. In the past, pregnant women have been recommended to not exercise because of presumed risks of preterm birth. Physical activity has been theoretically related to preterm birth because it increases the release of catecholamines, especially norepinephrine, which might stimulate myometrial activity. Conversely, exercise may reduce the risk of preterm birth by other mechanisms such as decreased oxidative stress or improved placenta vascularization. Therefore, the safety of exercise regarding preterm birth and its effects on gestational age at delivery remain controversial., Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of exercise during pregnancy on the risk of preterm birth., Data Sources: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, Scopus, ClinicalTrial.gov, OVID, and Cochrane Library were searched from the inception of each database to April 2016., Study Design: Selection criteria included only randomized clinical trials of pregnant women randomized before 23 weeks to an aerobic exercise regimen or not. Types of participants included women of normal weight with uncomplicated, singleton pregnancies without any obstetric contraindication to physical activity. The summary measures were reported as relative risk or as mean difference with 95% confidence intervals. The primary outcome was the incidence of preterm birth <37 weeks., Tabulation, Integration, and Results: Of the 2059 women included in the meta-analysis, 1022 (49.6%) were randomized to the exercise group and 1037 (50.4%) to the control group. Aerobic exercise lasted about 35-90 minutes 3-4 times per week. Women who were randomized to aerobic exercise had a similar incidence of preterm birth of <37 weeks (4.5% vs 4.4%; relative risk, 1.01, 95% confidence interval, 0.68-1.50) and a similar mean gestational age at delivery (mean difference, 0.05 week, 95% confidence interval, -0.07 to 0.17) compared with controls. Women in the exercise group had a significantly higher incidence of vaginal delivery (73.6% vs 67.5%; relative risk, 1.09, 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.15) and a significantly lower incidence of cesarean delivery (17.9% vs 22%; relative risk, 0.82, 95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.97) compared with controls. The incidence of operative vaginal delivery (12.9% vs 16.5%; relative risk, 0.78, 95% confidence interval, 0.61-1.01) was similar in both groups. Women in the exercise group had a significantly lower incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (2.9% vs 5.6%; relative risk, 0.51, 95% confidence interval, 0.31-0.82) and a significantly lower incidence of hypertensive disorders (1.0% vs 5.6%; relative risk, 0.21, 95% confidence interval, 0.09-0.45) compared with controls. No differences in low birthweight (5.2% vs 4.7%; relative risk, 1.11, 95% confidence interval, 0.72-1.73) and mean birthweight (mean difference, -10.46 g, 95% confidence interval, -47.10 to 26.21) between the exercise group and controls were found., Conclusion: Aerobic exercise for 35-90 minutes 3-4 times per week during pregnancy can be safely performed by normal-weight women with singleton, uncomplicated gestations because this is not associated with an increased risk of preterm birth or with a reduction in mean gestational age at delivery. Exercise was associated with a significantly higher incidence of vaginal delivery and a significantly lower incidence of cesarean delivery, with a significantly lower incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders and therefore should be encouraged., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background Maternal age is an essential determinant of obstetric and neonatal outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the impact of maternal age on these outcomes in primiparous women in Bihar. Material and methods: A retrospective community-based study was conducted on 50 primiparous women between November 2021 and July 2023 in Murho PHC, Madhepura, Bihar. Data were collected from medical records and included maternal age, obstetric outcomes (e.g., mode of delivery, gestational age at delivery, complications), and neonatal outcomes (e.g., birth weight, Apgar scores, neonatal complications). The participants were categorized into two groups: younger mothers (≤25 years) and older mothers (>25 years). Statistical analyses were performed to compare outcomes between these groups. Results: The study included 30 younger mothers and 20 older mothers. The average gestational age at delivery was 39 weeks in younger mothers and 38 weeks in older mothers. The rate of cesarean deliveries was higher in older mothers (40%) compared to younger mothers (20%). Preterm birth rates were 10% in younger mothers and 15% in older mothers. Neonatal complications, such as low birth weight and low Apgar scores, were more prevalent in infants born to older mothers. The average birth weight was 3.2 kg for younger mothers and 2.9 kg for older mothers. Conclusion: Maternal age significantly impacts obstetric and neonatal outcomes in primiparous women. Older mothers are more likely to experience adverse outcomes, including higher rates of cesarean delivery and neonatal complications. These findings underscore the importance of targeted prenatal care for older primiparous women to mitigate potential risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: the aim of our study was to assess the effect of bariatric surgery on obstetric outcomes. Material and methods: a retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 54 pregnancies post-bariatric surgery and 219 pregnancies in non-operated obese women, from December 2018 to January 2023. Various maternal and obstetric characteristics were evaluated, ranging from baseline data to antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum, and neonatal outcomes. Results: bariatric surgery showed a significant 69 % reduction in the risk of gestational diabetes (GDM) (p = 0.045) and a 63.1 % reduction in cesarean sections p = 0.014), but also a notable increase in the risk of miscarriage (3.5 times more, p = 0.046) and intrauterine growth restriction (35 times more, p = 0.009). Bariatric surgery was associated with a significant prolongation of postpartum hospital stay (7.5 times more, p = 0.001) and a decrease in the average weight of the newborn (213.71 g, p = 0.006). Conclusion: pregnancy after bariatric surgery presents benefits, such as a reduced risk of gestational diabetes (GDM) and cesarean section, but also presents challenges, such as an increased risk of miscarriage and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). These results highlight the importance of specialized obstetric care to optimize maternal-fetal outcomes in pregnant women with a history of bariatric surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to compare obstetric outcomes between Eritrean and Swiss women in Switzerland, focusing on instrumental or surgical interventions and analgesia use. Methods: The study included data from 45,412 Swiss and 1,132 Eritrean women who gave birth in Swiss hospitals (2019-2022). Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to assess the effect of nationality on mode of delivery and analgesia use and multinomial mixed-effects logistic regression to assess the effect of nationality on mode of delivery in women intended for spontaneous vaginal delivery. Results: Compared with Swiss, Eritrean women had a lower rate of primary C-section (Adj. OR 0.73, 95% CI [0.60, 0.89]) but a higher risk of initially planned vaginal deliveries ending in emergency C-section (RRR 1.31, 95% CI [1.05, 1.63]). Eritrean women were less likely to receive epidural analgesia (Adj. OR 0.53, 95% CI [0.45, 0.62]) and more likely to not receive any analgesia (Adj. OR 1.73, 95% CI [1.52, 1.96]). Conclusion: This study reveals disparities in obstetric care, notably in higher emergency C-section rates and lower analgesia use among Eritrean women. For promoting equitable healthcare practices deeper understanding of obstetrics decision-making is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Compared to traditional fetal heart rate monitoring (FHR) for the outpatients in clinic, remote FHR monitoring shows real-time assessment of fetal wellbeing at home. The clinical function of remote FHR monitoring in pregnant wome in outpatient is still unclear. Objective To explore the feasibility of remote FHR self-monitoring in singleton pregnant women from southern China. Study design This prospective cohort study was conducted at one tertiary center in southern China. Pregnant women used a mobile cardiotocogram device to measure the FHR at least once a week until delivery in the remote group. For the control group, pregnant women underwent traditional FHR monitoring once a week in the outpatient clinic. The rate of cesarean section, risk of postpartum hemorrhage and adverse neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. All the pregnant women completed a questionnaire survey to evaluate their acquisition of remote FHR self-monitoring. Results Approximately 500 women were recruited in the remote FHR self-monitoring group (remote group), and 567 women were recruited in the traditional FHR monitoring group (control group). The women in the remote FHR monitoring group were more likely to be nulliparous (P

Objective: To demonstrate the impact of scoliosis on pregnancy and gestational outcome. Material and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated gestational outcomes of pregnant women with scoliosis at Hacettepe University Hospital between 2008 and 2018. Cases were grouped according to the presence of previous scoliosis surgery and compared in terms of gestational week at birth, birthweight, rate of neonatal intensive care unit admission, hospitalization during pregnancy, route of delivery, type of anesthesia at labor and postpartum intensive care unit admission rate. Ejection fraction (EF), functional vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC ratio values were also recorded. Results: A total of 23 women were included, of whom 12 (52.2%) had a prior scoliosis surgery. One of the 23 (4.3%) cases was terminated due to respiratory problems, while the remaining 22 cases resulted in deliveries. The median gestational week at birth was 38.2 and the median birth weight was 3150 g. Median (range) maternal height was 143 (80-160) cm while median (range) maternal weight was 51 (35-86) kg. Three (13.6%) were diagnosed with restrictive lung disease. No significant difference was found between operated and non-operated groups in terms of respiratory function test results, cardiac EF and other related demographic and clinical features. Overall cesarean delivery rate was 63.6% (14/22) and cesarean section rate was significantly higher in the operated group (83.3% versus 40%) (p=0.04). Conclusion: Cesarean section rate was increased in this cohort of pregnancies in women with scoliosis and who had previous scoliosis surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information regarding the longitudinal effects of natural/environmental disasters on obstetrics outcomes is limited. This study aimed to analyze the longitudinal changes in obstetrics outcomes over 8 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima power plant accident. We used data from the first 8 years of the Pregnancy and Birth Survey by the Fukushima prefectural government, launched in 2011. We compared data on obstetrics outcomes by year and divided Fukushima Prefecture into six districts based on administrative districts. Longitudinal changes in the occurrence of preterm birth before 37 gestational weeks, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns were accessed using the Mantel–Haenszel test for trends in all six districts. Overall, 57,537 participants were included. In 8 years, maternal age, conception rate after sterility treatment, and cesarean section delivery incidence increased. Although significant differences were observed in preterm birth and low birth weight occurrence among districts, there was no significant trend in the occurrence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns in all six districts of Fukushima Prefecture. The Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima power plant accident were associated with increased cesarean section delivery incidence but had no significant adverse effects on obstetrics outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To assess the impact of long-acting insulin analogues, compared to intermediate acting neutral protamine Hagedron (NPH), on maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes. Methods: Studies for inclusion in the review were identified using a structured search strategy in PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) database. Studies that were randomized controlled trials or observational in design were considered for inclusion. Eligible studies should have compared the maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes between pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) managed by intermediate acting (NPH) and by long-acting insulin analogues. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA software. Results: We found 17 studies to be eligible for inclusion. The mean gestational weight gain and risk of maternal hypoglycaemia, hypertensive disorder, caesarean delivery, spontaneous abortion, endometritis and wound infection or dehiscence were similar among pregnant women with GDM managed using long-acting insulin analogues and NPH. Those receiving long-acting insulin analogues had significantly lower HbA1c values in the second (WMD −.09, 95% CI 0.12, − 0.06; N = 4) and third trimester (WMD − 0.08, 95% CI − 0.14, − 0.02; N = 12). The mean gestational age and birth weight and risk of perinatal mortality, prematurity, large for gestational age, small for gestational age, shoulder dystocia and congenital abnormalities was similar among babies in both groups. No statistically significant differences in risk of admission to neonatal intensive care unit, respiratory distress, neonatal hypoglycaemia, 5 min APGAR score of < 7, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and sepsis was observed. The quality of pooled evidence, as per GRADE criteria, was judged to be "very low" for all the maternal and neonatal outcomes considered. Conclusions: Findings suggest no significant differences in the maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes between intermediate and long-acting insulin analogues. The results provide support for use of long-acting insulin analogues in women with GDM. However, evidence is still needed from high quality randomized controlled trials to arrive at a recommendation for inclusion in routine clinical care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refugee women experience more negative pregnancy and neonatal outcomes, such as low birth weight and preterm birth. The aim of the present study was to compare the clinical characteristics and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes between Turkish citizens and Syrian refugees with high-risk pregnancies. This prospective cohort study was conducted between March and December 2020 in Sanliurfa, Turkey. The maternal characteristics and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. In this study, a total of 302 high-risk pregnant women (233 Turkish citizens and 69 Syrian refugees) were included. Parity and pregnancy spacing shorter than 2 years were significantly higher in Syrian refugees. Age, previous abortion or miscarriage and rates of cesarean section (C/S) were significantly higher in Turkish citizens. The live birth (Turkish: 94.8% vs Syrian: 92.8%), preterm birth (Turkish: 10% vs Syrian: 9.4%), low birth weight (Turkish: 7.7% vs Syrian: 3.1%) rates and birth weight (g) (Turkish: 3097.5 ± 501.3 g; Syrian: 2980.2 ± 395.0 g) were not significantly different between Turkish citizens and Syrian refugees with high-risk pregnancy. Similar pregnancy and neonatal outcomes could be attributed to the Syrians receiving adequate and free maternity care, similar to the Turkish citizens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To delineate obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes by maternal age in singleton pregnancies with previous caesarean section (CS).Methods: A retrospective study involved 7715 singleton gestations with previous CS was conducted in a single centre. Statistical methods were used to describe and analyse the incidence of various complications and adverse outcomes classified by maternal ages. After selecting the reference group (30-34 years), multivariate logistic-binomial regression model was used to investigate the outcomes using SPSS.Results: From 2013 to 2017, the proportion of advanced maternal age (AMA, ≥35 years) women with a history of CS increased yearly, especially in the 35-39 years age group. AMA women accounted for 39.4% of all pregnancies and has a high incidence of in vitro fertilization(IVF), progesterone therapy in early pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), placenta previa, premature rupture of membranes (PROM) and postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). Compared to the 30-34 years group, the risks of PIH, GDM, placenta previa, PROM and PPH increased in AMA pregnancies. Very advanced age (≥40 years) may be associated with placenta accreta while young mothers (20-24 years) have a higher prevalence of premature birth. Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is a risk factor for maternal complications, maternal and neonatal morbidity.Discussion: AMA is associated with increased risk of PIH, GDM, placenta previa, PROM and PPH. Vaginal bleeding may be a predictor during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information regarding the longitudinal effects of natural/environmental disasters on obstetrics outcomes is limited. This study aimed to analyze the longitudinal changes in obstetrics outcomes over 8 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima power plant accident. We used data from the first 8 years of the Pregnancy and Birth Survey by the Fukushima prefectural government, launched in 2011. We compared data on obstetrics outcomes by year and divided Fukushima Prefecture into six districts based on administrative districts. Longitudinal changes in the occurrence of preterm birth before 37 gestational weeks, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns were accessed using the Mantel–Haenszel test for trends in all six districts. Overall, 57,537 participants were included. In 8 years, maternal age, conception rate after sterility treatment, and cesarean section delivery incidence increased. Although significant differences were observed in preterm birth and low birth weight occurrence among districts, there was no significant trend in the occurrence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and anomalies in newborns in all six districts of Fukushima Prefecture. The Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima power plant accident were associated with increased cesarean section delivery incidence but had no significant adverse effects on obstetrics outcomes.

This retrospective cohort study aimed to analyze the clinical manifestations, complications, and maternal-fetal outcomes in patients affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during delivery. The cohort included 61 pregnant women positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection at the time of delivery. Patients were divided into two groups: symptomatic and asymptomatic. We found a significantly higher rate of leukocytosis (p < 0.00078) and lymphopenia (p < 0.0024) in symptomatic women compared with asymptomatic ones. Other laboratory parameters, such as CRP (p = 0.002), AST (p = 0.007), LDH (p = 0.0142), ferritin (p = 0.0036), and D-dimer (p = 0.00124), were also significantly more often increased in the group of symptomatic pregnant women. Overall, symptomatic pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection at the delivery show more often altered laboratory parameters compared with asymptomatic ones; nevertheless, they have a slightly higher but non-significant rate of preterm delivery, cesarean section, as well as lower neonatal birth weight and Apgar score, compared with asymptomatic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct obstetric causes have a significant contribution for severe maternal morbidities and mortalities, although the effect of grand multiparity on adverse obstetric outcomes remains controversial across studies. This study aimed to compare obstetric outcomes in grand multiparous and low multiparous women in two hospitals of southern Ethiopia. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in one general and one comprehensive specialized hospitals in 2018. Four hundred and sixty-one mothers were included in the study. Data were collected by structured questionnaire and extraction sheets from clinical documents, and were analyzed using STATA version 14 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA). About 39% of the included mothers had at least one adverse obstetric outcome. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, antepartum hemorrhage, and premature rupture of membrane and were higher in the grand multiparous mothers. However, obstructed labor and risk of cesarean delivery were higher in low multiparous women. History of medical illnesses, previous cesarean delivery, and high birth weight were independent predictors of adverse maternal outcomes regardless of parity. However, parity did not show statistically significant difference in obstetric outcomes. Parity did not show statistically significant difference in experiencing adverse obstetric outcomes in women. Early identification and treatment of high-risk mothers is recommended regardless of parity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bariatric surgery (BS) is known to reduce several obesity-related complications during pregnancy, but there is concern that it may increase the risk of maternal-fetal morbidity because of the malabsorption. This study aimed to investigate the impact of restrictive BS on several pregnancy outcomes in comparison with different grades of obesity.Materials and Methods: A single-center retrospective case-control study. All primiparous singleton pregnant women who underwent BS between the previous 1-5 years or with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 delivering in our center were included. Obstetric and perinatal outcomes were analyzed and compared between the two groups.Results: Overall, 90 women were included: 30 underwent BS and 60 were obese. The mean pre-pregnancy BMI was 31.0 ± 4.2 kg/m2 in the BS group and 38.1 ± 4.3 kg/m2 in the control group (p < 0.001). The obese group experienced higher rate of fetal macrosomia (25% vs 6.7%; p = 0.049), gestational hypertension (23.3% vs 3.3%; p = 0.04), preeclampsia (23.3% vs 0%; p = 0.04), gestational diabetes (33.3% vs 6.7%; p = 0.01), and cesarean section (68.3% vs 20%; p < 0.0001). The BS group showed higher frequency of small for gestational age (SGA) (46.7% vs 18.3%; p = 0.006), late preterm delivery (PTD) (33.3% vs 10%; p = 0.009), cholestasis (13.3% vs 1.7%; p = 0.049). Breastfeeding ≥ 6 months was higher among BS mothers (36.7% vs 11.7%; p = 0.007).Conclusions: Our findings support the positive impact of BS on several obstetric outcomes, at the expense of a higher frequency of SGA and PTD. BS mothers more frequently achieved the recommended goal of breastfeeding for 6 months compared to obese women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

purpose of this study was to evaluate the July effect on obstetric outcomes. Women who delivered between July and September (quarter 1) were compared to those delivering between April and June (quarter 4). Methods: This retrospective cohort study compared outcomes of deliveries between quarter 1 and quarter 4 from 2017 to 2020. Outcomes evaluated were postpartum length of stay (LOS), postpartum readmission, wound complication, wound infection, blood transfusion, estimated blood loss, 3rd and 4th degree lacerations, 5 min APGAR scores, and cesarean delivery rates. Results: There were 3693 deliveries in quarter 1 and 3107 deliveries in quarter 4. There was a higher incidence Of wound infection during the April–June period (N = 21; 0.68%) compared to July–September (N = 10; 0.27%; p = 0.0135). Although LOS for both periods were the same, the average postpartum LOS during July–September was slightly longer than April–June (1.7 days; SD = 1.1 vs 1.6 days; SD = 1.2; p = 0.0026). All other pregnancy outcomes were similar between the two groups. Conclusion: Overall, the July effect is minimal on obstetric complications. However, LOS between July and September may differ because all residents are less experienced in quarter 1. Wound infection rates were higher in April–June, perhaps because new PGY-1s went from assisting to primary on cesarean surgeries starting in the 4th quarter of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the oncologic and obstetric outcomes of patients with low-risk cervical cancer who underwent conization and lymphatic evaluation to preserve fertility.Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from September 2013 to February 2021. Eligibility criteria included Women with cervical cancer (aged <45 years) who underwent fertility preservation treatment, [stage IA1 with positive lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI), stage IA2, or stage IB1 (≤2 cm) with less <10 mm cervical stromal invasion, according to the International Federaltion of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2018 staging system] aged ≤45 years who wished to preserve their fertility were included in this study. All patients were treated with cervical conization(s) and laparoscopic lymph node evaluation [pelvic lymphadenectomy and/or sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping]. Oncologic and obstetric outcomes were evaluated.Results: Overall, 31 patients met the inclusion criteria; 15 (48.3%) women were nulliparous. There were 8 IA1LVSI+ (25.8%), 11 IA2 (35.4%) and 12 IB1 (31.7%) tumours, according to 2018 FIGO stage classification. Most patients had squamous cell carcinoma (77.4%). Lymphovascular space involvement was found in thirteen patients (41.9%). Reconization was performed in 17 (54.8%) patients, of which 6(35.2%) were done due to compromised margins, 4(23.5%) for margins under than 3 mm, 3(17.6%) for unreported or coagulated margins and 4(23.5%) because previous conization was done in another institution and we could not obtain the paraffin blocks for pathology review. Twenty patients had MRI and eleven CT scan. Nine (30%) patients had a complete bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection, 9 (26.6%) had SLN mapping with pelvic lymphadenectomy, and 13 (43.3%) had SLN mapping alone after bilateral SLN identification at surgery. After a median follow-up of 41.4 months (range 2-90 months), no recurrences have been detected. In terms of obstetrial outcome, 11 patients attempted pregnancy and 9 became pregnant. First-trimester miscarriage occurred in one patient. Five patients delivered at term by caesarean section, one of them requiring hysterectomy at the time of delivery. Pathology did not show residual disease. Two patients had a vaginal delivery at 38 weeks. One pregnancy is still ongoing.Conclusion: Cervical conization with lymph node assessment by SLN mapping/lymphadenectomy is an oncologic safe procedure in patients with low-risk cervical cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of our study is to present the effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pregnancy and evaluate its impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all COVID-19 positive pregnant women who were admitted to "Alexandra" maternity hospital from March to December 2020 (n=40). The infection status was determined via real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of nasopharyngeal swab specimen. We documented the demographic features, clinical status, pregnancy characteristics and maternal and fetal outcomes. Forty COVID-19 positive pregnant women were admitted to our clinic during the study period. Mean maternal age was 27.6 years. Gestational age (GA) ranged from 10–42 weeks of pregnancy with mean GA calculated at 38+3 weeks. Associated comorbidities included hypertension, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, hepatitis B and asthma. Thirty-five out of 40 women delivered within the study period. Cesarean section was performed in 57.1% of the cases. Most of the cases (87.5%) were asymptomatic while ventilation was required for only one patient. All neonates tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. Neither maternal nor neonatal deaths occurred. In alignment to other studies, our data show that the course of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during pregnancy in the majority of cases is mild and neonatal outcomes also appear favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  This study aimed to examine maternal outcomes of ongoing pregnancies complicated by fetal life-limiting conditions. Study design  This was a retrospective matched cohort study of women with a diagnosis of fetal life-limiting condition between 2010 and 2018 in a single academic center. Cases were matched to controls (women who had normal fetal anatomic survey) according to year of delivery, body mass index, and parity in a 1:4 ratio. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed to compare the prevalence of the primary composite outcome, which included any one of the following: preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean delivery, third and fourth degree laceration, postpartum hemorrhage, blood transfusion, endometritis or wound infection, maternal intensive care unit admission, hysterectomy and maternal death, between cases and controls. Results  During the study period, we found 101 cases that met inclusion criteria, matched to 404 controls. The rate of the composite maternal outcome did not differ between the two groups (39.6 vs. 38.9%, p  = 0.948). For individual outcomes, women with diagnosis of fetal life-limiting condition had higher rates of blood transfusion (2.0 vs. 0%, p  = 0.005) and longer length of the first stage of labor (median of 12 [6.8–22.0] hours vs. 6.6 [3.9–11.0] hours; p  < 0.001). In a multivariable analysis, first stage of labor continued to be longer by an average of 6.48 hours among women with a diagnosis of fetal life-limiting condition compared with controls. Conclusion  After controlling for confounding factors, except a longer first stage of labor, women diagnosed with fetal life-limiting conditions who continued the pregnancy did not have a higher rate of adverse maternal outcomes. Key Points The rates of ongoing pregnancies with fetal life-limiting conditions are increasing. Women with ongoing pregnancies with fetal life-limiting conditions had longer first stage of labor. The rest of the adverse maternal outcomes were not increased in this obstetric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate pre-existing comorbidities, obstetric risk factors and adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies conceived by oocyte donation, compared with naturally conceived pregnancies or by conventional IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). This retrospective single-centre contemporary cohort study reviewed data from singleton deliveries at the University Hospital of Careggi, Florence, from 2009 to 2017. Maternal and perinatal outcomes were analysed. The study included 25,851 pregnancies and newborns: 276 (1.1%) children were conceived after oocyte donation, 925 (3.6%) after IVF/ICSI and 24,650 (95.4%) after natural conception. Women in the oocyte donation group were significantly older compared with IVF/ICSI and natural conception groups (P < 0.0001) and had a higher prevalence of chronic hypertension compared with the natural conception group (P = 0.0090). They were administered anticoagulant medications more frequently during pregnancy. The incidence of gestational hypertension was significantly higher than in natural conception (aOR 3.6) and IVF/ICSI pregnancies (aOR 2.7). The incidence of Caesarean section in oocyte donation pregnancies was higher than in natural conception and IVF/ICSI groups (aOR 3.4 and 2.3, respectively). An 11-fold increased risk of post-partum haemorrhage (PPH) was found in oocyte donation versus natural conception and an almost four-fold increased risk was found in oocyte donation versus IVF/ICSI; prematurity and low birthweight were more frequent after oocyte donation versus natural conception (aOR 2.4 and 1.8, respectively). Patients undergoing oocyte donation represent a group with increased comorbidities and risk factors for adverse obstetric outcomes. Oocyte donation seems to be independently associated with gestational hypertension and PPH. Pregnancies after oocyte donation warrant clinical surveillance with proper screening and, possibly, preventive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Does polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) confer an independent risk for adverse delivery and neonatal outcomes, based on analysis of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-Nationwide Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS) database?Summary Answer: After controlling for all potential confounding effects, women with PCOS are at an increased risk of experiencing preterm pre-labour rupture of membranes (PPROM), pre-term delivery (PTD), placental abruption, caesarean section (C/S) delivery, chorioamnionitis and post-partum maternal infections.What Is Known Already: PCOS may be associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. However, there remain significant gaps in understanding the correlation between PCOS and important delivery and neonatal complications.Study Design, Size, Duration: This is a retrospective population-based cohort study utilising data from the HCUP-NIS over 11 years from 2004 to 2014. A cohort of all deliveries between 2004 and 2014 inclusively was created. Within this group, all deliveries to women with PCOS were identified as part of the study group (n = 14 882), and the remaining deliveries were categorised as non-PCOS births and comprised the reference group (n = 9 081 906).Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: The HCUP-NIS is the largest inpatient sample database in the USA and it is comprised of hospital inpatient stays throughout the entire country. It provides information relating to 7 million inpatient stays per year, includes ∼20% of admissions, and represents over 96% of the American population.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: After adjustment for all potential confounders, women with PCOS were more likely to experience PPROM (aOR 1.48, 95% CI 1.20-1.83), PTD (aOR 1.37 95% CI 1.24-1.53) and placental abruption (aOR 1.63, 95% CI 1.30-2.05) and were more likely to deliver by C/S (aOR 1.50, 95% CI 1.40-1.61 (all P < 0.001). Women with PCOS more often developed chorioamnionitis (aOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.34-1.86, P < 0.001) and maternal infections (aOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.36-1.84 (both P < 0.001)). With the exception of multiple gestations (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.01-1.62, P = 0.04), there was no difference in the number of women who gave birth to small for gestational age (SGA) infants (aOR 0.97, 95% CI 0.82-1.15, P = 0.72) between the women with PCOS and the reference group. Intrauterine foetal deaths (IUFDs) were also comparable between the two groups (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.68-1.59, P = 0.88). However, congenital anomalies were more likely to occur in the offspring of women with PCOS (aOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.51-2.38, P < 0.001).Limitations, Reasons For Caution: This is a retrospective analysis utilising an administrative database which relies on the accuracy and consistency of the individuals coding the data. There are known limitations in how accurately hospital coding is able to capture perinatal conditions and complications, making it difficult to know with certainty that such events are accurate.Wider Implications Of the Findings: Women with PCOS are more likely to experience adverse delivery and neonatal outcomes. It is important to additionally consider the risk of all other co-existing conditions frequently encountered in PCOS women, as these risks are additive and place women with PCOS at significantly increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.Study Funding/competing Interest(s): No specific funding was obtained for this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate pregnancy rates, time to pregnancy (TTP) and obstetric outcomes in female childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) and to identify specific diagnosis- and treatment-related factors associated with these outcomes. Methods: The study is part of the DCOG LATER-VEVO study, a nationwide multicenter cohort study evaluating fertility among long-term Dutch female CCSs. Data were collected by questionnaire. The current study included 1095 CCSs and 812 controls, consisting of sisters of CCSs and a random sample of women from the general population. Results: Among the subgroup of women who ever had the desire to become pregnant, the chance of becoming pregnant was significantly lower for CCSs than controls (OR 0.5, 95%CI 0.4–0.8). Moreover, TTP was 1.1 times longer for CCSs compared to controls (p = 0.09) and was significantly longer in survivors of CNS and renal tumours. Overall, no differences were found between CCSs and controls regarding the probability of ever having had a miscarriage, still birth, or induced abortion. However, CCSs had a significantly increased risk of delivering preterm (OR 2.2, 95%CI 1.3–3.7) and delivering via caesarean section (OR 1.8, 95%CI 1.2–2.6). Treatment with lower abdominal/pelvic radiotherapy was strongly associated with several adverse obstetric outcomes. Conclusion: CCSs are less likely to have ever been pregnant. Among those who do become pregnant, certain subgroups of CCSs are at increased risk of longer TTP. Moreover, as pregnant CCSs, especially those treated with lower abdominal/pelvic radiotherapy, are more likely to develop various adverse obstetric outcomes, appropriate obstetric care is highly advocated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the relationships between excisional treatment for high-grade cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN2+) and obstetric outcomes in terms of preterm delivery risk, premature rupture of membrane (PROM) and type of delivery, and between pre-term delivery and the type of excisional technique (radio frequency excision, laser conization).Methods: This was a retrospective study of the obstetric outcomes of 2316 women aged 25-45 years who underwent excisional treatment for CIN2+ at the Obstetric and Gynecological Clinic of Ospedale Maggiore della Carità in Novara and at the Obstetric and Gynecological Department of Ospedale Sant'Anna in Torino in the period 2005-2014 and were evaluated until April 2016, and 57,937 untreated women of the same age, from the same centers.Results: After treatment, 320 women had at least one pregnancy leading to delivery after a mean of 3.35 years. Treatment significantly increased the risk of preterm delivery. Compared with no treatment, the risk of preterm birth was higher in women who had undergone treatment (33.13% vs. 6.60%). Techniques removing or ablating more tissue, such as large loop excision of the transformation zone, were associated with worse outcomes (OR 2.96, 95% IC 1.72-5.10). Smoking habits significantly increase the risk of preterm delivery in the treated women (OR 2.82, 95% IC 1.61-4.9). The risk of premature rupture of the membranes (PROM) (40% vs. 23.22%), the risk of preterm PROM (pPROM) (13.13% vs. 2.71%) and dystocic births (18.75% vs 4.48%) were also significantly increased after treatment. Caesarean sections were less frequent among the treated women (15.94% vs. 32.41%).Conclusions: Our findings reveal a relationship between cervical excisional treatment and pre-term delivery, PROM, and the method of delivery. In order to minimise risk and guarantee the best obstetric outcome, patient treatment and follow-up should be personalised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) and its impact on women's health are becoming relevant in Australia due to increases in numbers of refugees and migrants from affected countries. Notwithstanding the psychological trauma from FGM, there is a broad range of sequelae relevant to obstetrics and gynaecology, particularly related to maternal morbidity from labour and delivery. Aims: To assess the prevalence of FGM in our unit and document its effect on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of women affected by FGM who delivered at a metropolitan hospital in Sydney over a five‐year period. The primary outcome was mode of delivery and secondary outcomes addressed maternal morbidity and neonatal nursery admission compared with women unaffected by FGM. Results: A full data set was available for 141/142 women affected by FGM. The overall prevalence of FGM was 1.64%. The majority of women affected by FGM were documented to have FGM 3 (41.1%). There was no difference in caesarean section rate. Women with FGM were less likely to be delivered by vacuum or forceps (11.1% vs 2.8%; P = 0.0009). There was no difference in perineal trauma, postpartum haemorrhage and neonatal nursery admission. Women with FGM 3 were more likely to have an episiotomy (4.8% vs 25.9%; P = 0.0007) without an increase in anal sphincter injury (P = 0.7). Documentation complying with local policy and guidelines was poor. Conclusions: FGM is increasingly common in Australia. This study adds to the Australian literature quantifying the effects on obstetric outcomes in these high‐risk women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Current evidence from clinical studies suggests that having an active eating disorder (ED) during pregnancy is associated with unfavorable obstetric outcomes. However, the role of a lifetime diagnosis of ED is not fully understood. Variations in findings suggest a need for additional studies of maternal ED. This study aims to identify associations between a lifetime ED and obstetric outcomes. Method: Data from a hospital patient register and a population‐based study (The HUNT Study) were linked to the Medical Birth Registry in Norway. Register based information of obstetric complications (preeclampsia, preterm birth, perinatal deaths, small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), Caesarean sections, and 5‐min Apgar score) were acquired for 532 births of women with ED and 43,657 births of non‐ED women. Multivariable regression in generalized estimating equations was used to account for clusters within women as they contributed multiple births to the dataset. Results: After adjusting for parity, maternal age, marital status, and year of delivery, lifetime history of anorexia nervosa was associated with increased odds of having offspring who were SGA (Odds ratio (OR) 2.7, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.4–5.2). Women with a lifetime history of bulimia nervosa had higher odds of having a Caesarian section (OR 1.7 95% CI 1.1–2.5). Women with EDNOS/sub‐threshold ED had a higher likelihood of having a low Apgar score at 5 min (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.1–8.8). Conclusion: Our study corroborates available evidence on the associations between maternal ED and adverse obstetric outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To identify the vary of obstetric outcomes by the severity of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Methods: A retrospective study involved pregnancies with PH in one certain academic institution. Total 78 pregnancies with PH were classified into three groups according the mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressure: mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressure 30–49 mm Hg (mild‐PH group), mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressure 50–69 mm Hg (moderate‐PH group) and mean pulmonary arterial systolic pressure ≥ 70 mm Hg (severe‐PH group). The clinical features and obstetric outcomes were described and compared among three groups. Results: The incidence of PH was 0.23%, including 57 cases in mild‐PH group, 10 cases in moderate‐PH group and 11 cases in severe‐PH group. Meanwhile, pregnancies with mild PH present NYHA class I/II (P < 0.001). General anesthesia (P < 0.001) and advanced intensive care (P = 0.011) were supplied for pregnancies with severe PH. There was no significant difference in rate of caesarean delivery. Furthermore, severity of PH increased the risk of neonatal death (P = 0.040). Conclusion: The severity of PH seems to be a poor prognosis of neonatal death. Intensive care should be provided for pregnancies with severe PH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During pregnancy, the hyperdynamic physiology of circulation can exacerbate many cardiovascular disorders. Congestive heart failure (CHF) usually occurs during late pregnancy, which is significantly associated with a high level of maternal and neonatal morbidities and mortalities. The profile of women who develop peripartum CHF (PCHF) is unknown. We investigated the epidemiological profiles of PCHF.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, PCHF patients were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes in Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Risk factors and obstetric outcomes were compared in women with and without PCHF.Results: From 2,115,873 birth-mothers in Taiwan between 1997 and 2013, we identified 512 with PCHF (incidence: 24.20/105). More women with than without PCHF were older (≥ 35, 18.16% vs. 9.62%), and had more multifetal gestations (7.42% vs. 1.40%), gestational hypertension (HTN) (19.2% vs. 1.31%), and gestational diabetes mellitus (4.10% vs. 0.67%). After the analysis had been adjusted for confounders, the leading comorbidities associated with PCHF were structural heart diseases (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 67.21; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 54.29-83.22), pulmonary diseases (aOR: 13.12; 95% CI: 10.28-16.75), chronic HTN (aOR: 11.27; 95% CI: 6.94-18.28), thyroid disease (aOR: 9.53; 95% CI: 5.27-17.23), and gestational HTN (aOR: 5.16; 95% CI: 3.89-6.85). PCHF patients also had a higher rate of cesarean sections (66.41% vs. 34.46%; p < 0.0001).Conclusion: Maternal structural heart diseases, pulmonary diseases, thyroid disorders, and preexisting or gestational HTN are associated with a higher risk of developing PCHF. Birth-mothers with PCHF also had a higher risk of caesarean section and adverse outcomes, including maternal death. Our findings should benefit healthcare providers, and government and health insurance policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This population-based study compares obstetric outcomes of first- and second-generation Pakistani immigrants and ethnic Norwegians who gave birth at the low-risk maternity ward in Baerum Hospital in Norway from 2006 to 2013. We hypothesized that second-generation Pakistani immigrants are more similar to the ethnic Norwegians because of increased acculturation. Outcome measures were labor onset, epidural analgesia, labor dystocia, episiotomy, vaginal/operative delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, preterm birth, birth weight, transfer to a neonatal intensive care unit, and neonatal jaundice. Compared to first-generation Pakistani immigrants, the second-generation reported more health issues before pregnancy, and they had a higher proportion of preterm births compared to Norwegians. Newborns of first-generation immigrants were more often transferred to a neonatal intensive care compared to Norwegian newborns. Few intergenerational differences in the obstetric outcomes were found between the two generations. A high prevalence of consanguinity in second-generation immigrants suggests the maintenance of a traditional Pakistani marriage pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to find out the effect of abortus imminens (AI) on obstetric outcomes of pregnancies which continued beyond the 24th week of gestation. Methods: In this prospective study, 309 patients with AI were divided into high-risk group (with a risk factor for spontaneous abortus) ( n = 92) and low-risk group (without a risk factor) ( n = 217). The control group ( n = 308) was chosen randomly. Results: In AI group, preterm delivery, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), cesarean section (C/S) delivery, postpartum uterine atony and need of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) rates were significantly higher than control group. Gestational diabetes mellitus, PPROM, still birth, low APGAR scores were seen more frequently in the high-risk patients than in the control group. Furthermore in the high-risk group, preterm delivery, malpresentation, C/S delivery and need of NICU were increased much more than in the low-risk group. Gestational hypertension/preeclampsia, oligo/polyhydramniosis, intrauterine growth retardation, placenta previa, abruption of placenta, chorioamnionitis, congenital abnormalities, delivery induction, cephalopelvic disproportion, fetal distress and manual removal of placenta were not different among the groups. Conclusions: Patients with AI history, especially with high-risk factors can have adverse obstetric and neonatal results. So their antenatal follow-up has to be done cautiously for the early signs and symptoms of these complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is still performed in the world. Women who underwent FGM have marked psychological, gynecological and obstetric consequences. This article contributes to the spread of knowledge about obstetric and neonatal outcomes in women with FGM I and II. Methods: Our observational study compared the obstetric outcomes of 85 women with FGM I and II (case group) and 95 women without it (control group). We evaluated age, need of oxytocin during labor, duration of the expulsion phase, need of episiotomy, weight of the newborn, Apgar score at birth, resuscitation of the newborn, stillbirth. We observed the rate of cesarean sections and their main indications. We compared the rate of cesarean sections among the cases and the controls. Results: Controls were younger than women who underwent FGM. Intravenous oxytocin injection was higher in cases. The expulsion phase was longer in women with FGM than in the controls. FGM is related to a higher risk of episiotomy. Apgar score 9/10 was more frequently assigned to babies from mothers without FGM. There were more resuscitated babies and more stillbirth in the group of cases. Ten percent of all women underwent cesarean section. FGM is related to a higher incidence of cesarean section. Conclusion: FGM is associated with a higher risk of gynecological and obstetrical consequences, acting on women's health and also on the economy of resource limited countries. Because of migration, health professionals could interface with women who underwent FGM and have to know their related complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To examine the association between gestational weight gain and adverse maternal and infant outcomes among overweight women [body mass index (BMI) 26.0-29.0 kg/m]. Methods A population-based cohort study using birth certificate data (1990-2004) from 34,143 singleton, full-term deliveries to nulliparous, Missouri residents ages 18-35. Gestational weight gain was divided into three categories: below Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations (<15 lbs), within IOM recommendations (15-25 lbs), and above IOM recommendations (>25 lbs). Categories of 10-lb increments were also evaluated. The primary outcomes were preeclampsia, cesarean section, macrosomia, low birth weight (LBW), and perinatal death. Adjusted relative risks and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using Mantel-Haenszel pooled estimator. Results Compared to women who gained 15-25 lbs, women who gained <15 lbs were 0.8 (95% CI 0.6-1.0), 0.9 (0.8-1.0), 0.6 (0.5-0.8), and 1.7 (1.4-2.2) times as likely to have preeclampsia, cesarean section, macrosomia, and LBW, respectively. Conversely, women who gained >25 lbs were 1.7 (1.5-1.9), 1.3 (1.2-1.4), 2.1 (1.9-2.3), and 0.6 (0.5-0.7) times as likely to have preeclampsia, cesarean section, macrosomia, and LBW, respectively. The lowest risk of adverse outcomes was for women who gained in the 6-14 and 15-24 lb categories. There was no association between gestational weight gain and perinatal death. Conclusions Increasing gestational weight gain appears to decrease the risk of LBW but elevates the risks of preeclampsia, cesarean section, and macrosomia. Overweight women should gain within current IOM recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate pregnancy outcome in patients with condyloma acuminata. Methods: A retrospective cohort study comparing pregnancy outcome of women with and without condyloma acuminata was performed. A sub-group analysis was performed between patients with localized disease ( n = 40), extended disease ( n = 25) and no condyloma acuminata ( n = 227,202). Results: Using a multivariate logistic regression model, condyloma acuminata was significantly associated with cesarean delivery (OR = 3.4; 95% CI 1.9-5.8; P < 0.001), nulliparity (OR = 4.8; 95% CI 2.6-9.0; P < 0.001), and Jewish ethnicity (vs. Bedouin Arabs; OR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.3-4.1; P < 0.001). A significant linear association was found between the three subgroup (extended condyloma, localized condyloma and no condyloma) and cesarean delivery (40.0% in the extended disease vs. 32.5% in the localized disease vs. 13.0% in the comparison group P < 0.001). No significant differences were noted between the groups in terms of perinatal outcomes, such as low Apgar score (<7) at 1 min (4.2 vs. 1.6%; P = 0.298) and 5 min (0.6 vs. 0.0% P = 0.534) and perinatal mortality (1.4 vs. 1.5% P = 0.912). Conclusions: Women with condyloma acuminata are at an increased risk for cesarean delivery, while the risk for cesarean delivery is higher for pregnancies with extended when compared with localized disease. Nevertheless, condyloma acuminata is not associated with adverse perinatal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a critical analysis of risk management in maternity care and the hidden costs associated with the practice in healthy women. Issues of quality and safety are driving an increased emphasis by health services on risk management in maternity care. Medical risk in pregnancy is known to benefit 15% or less of all pregnancies. Risk management applied to the remaining 85% of healthy women results in the management of risk in the absence of risk. The health cost to mothers and babies and the economic burden on the overall health system of serious morbidity has been omitted from calculations comparing costs of uncomplicated caesarean birth and uncomplicated vaginal birth. The understanding that elective caesarean birth is cost-neutral when compared to a normal vaginal birth has misled practitioners and contributed to over use of the practice. For the purpose of informing the direction of maternity service policy it is necessary to expose the effect the overuse of medical intervention has on the overall capacity of the healthcare system to absorb the increasing demand for operating theatre resources in the absence of clinical need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate pregnancy outcome in patients post-total thyroidectomy. Methods. A retrospective study comparing pregnancy outcome of women post-total thyroidectomy ( n == 50), patients with hypothyroidism due to other reasons ( n == 1015) and pregnancies without hypothyroidism ( n == 200,000) was performed. Results. A significant linear association was documented between the three groups and adverse outcomes such as placental abruption (6.1%% in the total thyroidectomy group, 1.0%% in hypothyroidism and 0.8%% in the no-hypothyroidism group; p == 0.002), and caesarean delivery (33.3%% in the total thyroidectomy, 30.4 in hypothyroidism and 14.4%% in the no-hypothyroidism group; p < 0.001). Total thyroidectomy was independently associated with placental abruption and fertility treatment in a multivariable model controlling for maternal age. No significant differences were noted between the groups in terms of perinatal outcomes such as low Apgar score (<7) at 1 min (6.1%% vs. 4.5%% and 4.3%%; p == 0.846) and 5 min (3.0%% vs. 0.6%% and 3.0%%; p == 0.198); perinatal mortality (0.0%% vs. 0.9%% and 0.01%%; p == 0.293). Conclusions. Women post-total thyroidectomy and women with hypothyroidism due to other reasons are at increased risk for adverse obstetric outcomes, while the risk is higher for pregnancies with total thyroidectomy as compared to hypothyroidism due to other reasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths raised concerns that immigrant women have significantly poorer obstetric outcomes when compared to native women, there is little published data on the obstetric outcomes of Chinese immigrants living in the UK. This retrospective, case-control study compared maternal demographics and obstetric outcomes of Chinese with British Caucasian women matched for parity and age, who served as controls. Data from 125 index and 125 control cases were analysed. A total of 74% of the Chinese women had little or no understanding of English. The Chinese women were more likely to be non-smokers, have a lower BMI and be unemployed than their British counterparts (p<0.001). They booked later (21.01 vs 15.35 weeks, p<0.0001) and attended on average one less antenatal clinic than controls (p<0.001). Chinese women were also less likely to deliver by caesarean section (p<0.05), but more likely to have a perineal tear (p<0.005). Pre-defined risk, gestation at delivery, birth weight, duration of labour, estimated blood loss and mean 5 min Apgar scores were comparable in both groups (p>0.05). In conclusion, there are significant differences in access to healthcare and the method of delivery, but overall, the obstetric outcomes of both ethnic groups are highly similar. This may be due to the 'healthy immigrant effect' or the increased use of interpreters and linkworkers in obstetric healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]