Search

BACKGROUND: Black women have greater than a three-fold risk of pregnancy-associated death compared to White women; cardiomyopathy is a leading cause of maternal mortality. OBJECTIVES: This study examined racial disparities in health outcomes among women with peripartum cardiomyopathy. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort of women with peripartum cardiomyopathy per the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute definition from January 2000–November 2017 from a single referral center. Selected health outcomes among Black and White women were compared; primary outcome was ejection fraction at diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included cardiovascular outcomes, markers of maternal morbidity, resource utilization, and subsequent pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS: Ninety-five women met inclusion criteria: 48% Black, 52% White. Nearly all peripartum cardiomyopathy diagnoses were postpartum (95.4% Black, 93% White, p=0.11). Ejection fraction at diagnosis was not different between Black and White women (26.8% ± 12.5 vs 28.7% ± 9.9, p=0.41). Though non-significant, fewer Black women had myocardial recovery to EF ≥ 55% (35% vs 53%, p = 0.07); however, 11 (24%) of Black women vs 1 (2%) White woman had an ejection fraction ≤ 35% at 6 – 12 months postpartum (p < 0.01). More Black women underwent implantable cardioverter defibrillator placement: n = 15 (33%) vs n = 7 (14%), p=0.03. Eight women (8.4%) died in the study period, not different by race (p = 0.48). Black women had higher rates of healthcare utilization. In the subsequent pregnancy, Black women had a lower initial ejection fraction (40% vs 55%, p = 0.007) and were less likely to recover postpartum (37.5% vs 55%, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Black and White women have similar mean ejection fraction at diagnosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy, but Black women have more severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction leading to worse outcomes, increased resource use, and lower ejection fraction entering the subsequent pregnancy.

Women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) present with evidence of significant myocardial dysfunction on echocardiographic assessment at the time of diagnosis. Birth not only cures the syndrome of HDP, but is also associated with a reduction in cardiovascular (CV) volume and resistance load in the mother due to the delivery of the fetoplacental unit. The impact of this physiological change on maternal myocardial function in women with HDP has not been systematically evaluated. The aim of this study is to compare echocardiographic findings immediately before and after childbirth in women with HDP. In this prospective longitudinal study, 30 women with a diagnosis of HDP underwent two consecutive transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) examinations: the first prepartum and the second in the early postpartum period. Paired comparisons of these assessments were performed. Left ventricular (LV) concentric remodelling or hypertrophy were found in 21 (70%) patients and there were no significant differences in cardiac morphology indices: LV mass index (78.9±16.3 g/m vs 77.9 ±15.4 g/m , p=0.611) and relative wall thickness (0.45±0.1 vs 0.44±0.1, p=0.453). LV diastolic function did not demonstrate any peripartum variation: left atrial volume (52.40±15.3 vs 50.97±15.6, p=0.433); lateral E' (0.12±0.03 vs 0.12±0.03, p=0.307) and E/E' ratio (7.88±2.19 vs 7.91±1.74, p=0.934). Systolic function indices such as LV ejection fraction (57.5±4.4% vs 56.4±2.1%, p=0.295) and global longitudinal strain (-15.3±2.6% vs -15.1±3.1%, p=0.715) also remained unchanged. Maternal hemodynamic changes associated with birth did not significantly influence peripartum TTE indices in women with HDP. Suboptimal maternal echocardiographic findings in HDP are likely to be the consequence of chronic pregnancy CV load changes or pre-existing maternal CV impairment. Severity and persistence of myocardial dysfunction into the postpartum period may be related to the long-term maternal CV disease legacy of HDP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. [Abstract copyright: This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.]

BACKGROUND Although peripartum intensive care unit admission indications are well-reported, clinical and laboratory details rarely are. We described admission indications and categorised laboratory values and vital signs according to admission diagnosis. METHODS Retrospective Institutional Review Board approved study. We identified intensive care unit admission diagnosis, laboratory values and vital signs from patient charts. Groups were compared according to admission diagnoses. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS We included 91 general intensive care unit admissions among 56,865 deliveries (2011-2015) with complete data. The most common admission diagnosis was postpartum haemorrhage followed by hypertensive diseases of pregnancy and respiratory complications. Women with postpartum haemorrhage had lower mean (standard deviation) platelet counts (120.2 (45.8) vs. 181.2 (109.9), p = .003) and temperatures (35.7 (1.1) vs. 36.5 (1.2), p = .002). Women with hypertensive diseases of pregnancy had higher mean (standard deviation) blood pressures (systolic 150.4 (29.1) vs. 127.4 (21.0), p = .013, diastolic 100.3 (18.7) vs. 76.1 (16.1), p = .001), creatinine (1.1 (0.6) vs. 0.8 (0.3), p = .003), urea (14.6 (7.7) vs. 10.5 (4.7), p = .005) and liver enzymes, including aspartate transaminase (258.4 (297.0) vs. 41.4 (42.9), p = .000), alanine transaminase (184.4 (199.2) vs. 35.1 (75.9), p = .000), and alkaline phosphatase (166.6 (112.6) vs. 96.0 (60.0), p = .006). Women with respiratory complications had lower mean (standard deviation) oxygen saturations (93.7 (6.1) vs. 98.0 (2.6), p = .000), and higher mean (standard deviation) temperatures (37.1 (0.8) vs. 36.0 (1.2), p = .001). CONCLUSIONS We report differences in laboratory values and vital signs, according to intensive care unit admission diagnosis. Recognising these differences might help individualise patient assessment and care.

BACKGROUND: Women with bipolar I disorder are at high risk for severe episodes after childbirth, but there is no study that provides an overview on bipolar episode risk both during pregnancy and after childbirth, miscarriage and induced abortion. The aim of this study was to determine the episode risk during all pregnancy outcomes subdivided by first and subsequent pregnancies. METHODS: Participants were 436 women with bipolar I disorder from the Dutch Bipolar Cohort, having 919 pregnancies of which 762 resulted in a live childbirth, 118 ended in a miscarriage and 39 ended in induced abortion. Women reported on the occurrence of manic or depressed episodes during the perinatal period. Information about medication use was obtained by questionnaires. RESULTS: Episode risk was 5.2% during pregnancy, and 30.1% in the postpartum period, with a peak in the early postpartum period. Risk of an episode was highest after live birth (34.4%), and lower after miscarriage (15.2%) and induced abortion (27.8%). Women with an episode during pregnancy or postpartum were less likely to have a second child compared to women with an uneventful first pregnancy (cOR=0.34; 95%CI: 0.22-0.51; p

The integration of trauma-informed care practices into the care of obstetric patients requires an understanding of psychological trauma, its impact on this population, and how trauma-informed care can be adapted to improve outcomes for those patients with a previous history of trauma or for those that experience peripartum trauma. System-based changes to policies, protocols, and practices are needed to achieve sustainable change. Maternal morbidity and mortality that result from trauma-related and other mental health conditions in the peripartum period are significant. Innovative approaches to the prevention of negative birth experiences and retraumatization during labor and delivery are needed.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but potentially life-threatening form of heart failure (HF). Bromocriptine, a dopamine D2 agonist, has been used as an adjunctive treatment for PPCM with controversial benefits. A comprehensive literature search was conducted through June 2021. We included studies comparing the outcomes of PPCM with or without bromocriptine use. Pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and I2 statistics were calculated. Composite major adverse outcomes were defined by a composite of death, need for advanced HF therapies, persistent New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/V, or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 35% at 6-month follow-up. LVEF recovery was defined by improvement of LVEF to more than 50%. Eight studies (two randomized-controlled, six observational) involving 593 PPCM patients were included. Bromocriptine use was associated with significantly higher survival (91.6% vs. 83.9%, RR 1.11 p = 0.02). Baseline LVEF was not significantly different between the groups. LVEF at follow-up was significantly higher in the bromocriptine group (53.3% vs. 41.8%, p < 0.001). There was no significant association between bromocriptine use and lower composite major adverse outcomes (13.7% vs. 33.3%, RR 0.60 p = 0.54) or LVEF recovery (46.9% vs. 46.8%, RR 0.94 p = 0.74). In conclusion, the addition of bromocriptine to standard HF treatment in PPCM was associated with significantly higher survival and higher LVEF improvement. No association with lower composite adverse clinical outcomes or LVEF recovery was seen. The findings, although encouraging, warrant larger randomized-controlled studies.

OBJECTIVE To determine if any of maternal pre-delivery soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental growth factor (PIGF), or sFlt-1/PIGF ratio correlate with either perceived stress scale (PSS) or verbal numeric rating scale (VNRS) pain scores. METHODS Among 50 pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia and 90 normotensive pregnant women observed from 48 h or less before delivery until day 3 postpartum, correlations between the following were performed: (1) serum concentrations of each angiogenic factor (sFlt-1, PIGF, and sFlt-1/PIGF ratio) sampled within 48 h before childbirth and a four-item PSS (pre-delivery and one-off 48-72 h postpartum score); (2) the same angiogenic factors above and VNRS ranging from 0 to 10; and (3) PSS and VNRS (both pre-delivery and postpartum). RESULTS In the normotensive group, there was a positive correlation between sFlt-1 and postpartum PSS (ρ +0.214 and P = 0.043), and between sFlt-1/PIGF ratio and postpartum PSS (ρ +0.213 and P = 0.044). In the normotensive and severe pre-eclampsia groups there were non-significant negative correlations between PIGF and postpartum PSS (P > 0.096) and non-significant positive correlations between pre-delivery PSS and pre-delivery VNRS (P > 0.053). Other correlations were uninformative. CONCLUSION Maternal pre-delivery sFlt-1/PIGF ratio in normotensive pregnancy is a promising biomarker for identifying risk of increased postpartum PSS to enable early counselling.

Recent research has implicated allopregnanolone (ALLO), a neuroactive steroid and metabolite of progesterone, in perinatal mood and anxiety symptoms. We sought to add to the limited literature examining ALLO and mood and anxiety at multiple time points across the peripartum. We measured mood and anxiety symptoms and ALLO levels by ELISA at the second and third trimester (T2 and T3) and week 6 postpartum (W6) in N = 73 women with prior histories of mood and/or anxiety disorders and N = 38 healthy controls. Analytic methods included multivariate and logistic regressions with linear mixed effect models. Among all participants (N = 111), higher ALLO levels at W6 were associated with higher depression and anxiety scores: each one unit increase in log ALLO at W6 was associated with a 2.54 point increase on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) (95% CI: 0.73 to 4.33) and an 8.0 point increase on the Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS) (95% CI: 3.82 to 12.6). In addition, the nature of the relationship between log ALLO level and psychological measures changed across time; from T2 to W6 for EPDS, β = 3.73 (95% CI:1.16, 6.30), p = 0.0045; for PASS β = 9.78 (95% CI:3.77, 15.79), p = 0.0014); from T3 to W6, for (EPDS, β = 2.52 (95% CI:0.08, 4.96), p = 0.043; for PASS β = 7.33 (95% CI:1.63, 13.02), p = 0.018). The relationship of log ALLO to mood and anxiety symptoms was the same among women with and without psychiatric histories. Our exploratory findings indicate that the relationship between ALLO and mood and anxiety symptoms may change across the peripartum.

Our objectives were to determine the effects of dam body condition score (BCS), age of dam, and calf sex on placental size and the relationships between dam body weight (BW) and calf size with placental size. Expelled placentas and calf size at birth were collected from crossbred beef heifers and cows during four experiments (n = 22 to 39/experiment). Placentas deemed complete by visual inspection were dissected; dry weights were determined for cotyledonary and intercotyledonary tissues. Mixed linear models were used to individually determine main effects of peripartum BCS category [Thin (

The inclusion of somatic symptoms in assessing peripartum depression (PPD), which encompasses depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period, has remained controversial, as there is substantial overlap between somatic depression symptoms and normal features of pregnancy/postpartum. This study examined whether trajectories differed by PPD symptom subscale and whether PPD symptom networks changed as a function of the peripartum phase. 418 women with a history of neuropsychiatric illness participated in a longitudinal observational study, completing symptom questionnaires assessing affective, cognitive, and somatic symptoms throughout pregnancy and the first year postpartum. Assessments were grouped into five peripartum phases: three trimesters of pregnancy and early/late postpartum. Two analyses were performed. First, a series of multilevel spline regression models examined depression subscale trajectories over peripartum phase. Second, symptom networks and related metrics were estimated for each peripartum phase and compared. Somatic symptoms were most severe and had the most variable peripartum trajectory. The role of somatic symptoms within the networks also changed as a function of peripartum phase. Our results suggest that somatic symptoms can be severe and may play a crucial role in the maintenance of PPD. Thus, somatic symptoms should not be disregarded when assessing for PPD in obstetrical, psychiatric, and pediatric clinics, and clinical research.

Aims This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics, echocardiographic measurements, medical treatment, pregnancy outcomes, and the 6 month follow‐up outcomes among patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) in Iraq. Methods and results Data were collected prospectively at cardio‐maternal clinic in Baghdad Heart Center, using case report form for the EORP‐PPCM registry from January 2015 to November 2020. Six month follow‐up was performed either by attendance of patients or by phone contact. A total of 64 PPCM patients were enrolled with a mean age of 32.1 ± 6.8 years. Diagnosis in 35 (54.7%) women was made in the post‐partum period. There was a history of previous PPCM in 9 (14%), coexisting hypertension with the current pregnancy in 30 (51.7%), cholelithiasis in 5 (7.8%), and cancer in 3 (4.7%). Baseline mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 34.7 ± 8.1%, significantly higher than that reported globally (31 ± 10%) (P‐value 0.011), and 26 (40.6%) of our patients had LVEF of ≤34%. Baseline mean global longitudinal strain (GLS) for 26 (40.6%) patients was −9.4 ± 4.1%. Baseline mean left ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic dimensions were 61.2 ± 8.5 and 50.6 ± 10.2 mm, respectively. At 6 month follow‐up, 11 (36.7%) women recovered their LVEF, lower than global data (46%) but higher than that in the Middle East (25%) with P‐value 0.241 and 0.919, respectively. The mean LVEF was 44.5 ± 11.9%, and the mean GLS for 15 (23.4%) of patients was −13.4 ± 5.3%, including 5 (33.3%) with the range of −18.6% to −17%. Bromocriptine was the least used drug in 4 (8.2%) vs. globally reported (15%) (P‐value 0.188). Thrombo‐embolic events and maternal death were reported in 2 (4.1%) and 3 (4.7%) cases, respectively, within 6 months. Conclusions Around half of our PPCM patients were diagnosed at post‐partum period with impaired initial LVEF and GLS, and one‐third had early LVEF recovery at 6 month follow‐up, higher than that in the Middle East but lower than the globally reported figure in the EORP‐PPCM registry. Limited use of bromocriptine might explain the later finding. The co‐morbid diseases in our setting were hypertension and cholelithiasis. Interestingly, the comparable ratios of neonatal and maternal mortalities in our study to that of the EORP‐PPCM registry were found less than the Middle East figures. Bromocriptine needs to be considered in Middle East countries, including Iraq, which may be the key to improving LVEF recovery and perhaps reducing maternal mortality.

This retrospective cohort study aimed to explore the relationship between temporal changes in the cardiac function and peripartum cardiac events in pregnant women with low-risk congenital heart disease.We performed echocardiography at early and late pregnancy and postpartum in 76 pregnant women with low-risk congenital heart disease, and compared echocardiographic parameters between subjects with and without peripartum cardiac events. Median age at delivery was 27 (range, 24-31) years. The ZAHARA and CARPREG II scores suggested that most women were found to be at low-risk for pregnancy. Fifteen subjects had cardiac events that included heart failure in 10, arrhythmia in 4, and pulmonary hypertension in one subject. The left ventricular and atrial volumes significantly increased from early pregnancy toward late pregnancy, and the E/A ratio and global longitudinal strain significantly decreased from early pregnancy toward late pregnancy. The left atrial volume (67 [53-79] versus 45 [35-55] mL, P = 0.002) and plasma brain natriuretic peptide level (58 [36-123] versus 34 [18-48] pg/mL, P = 0.026) at late pregnancy were significantly higher in subjects with cardiac events than in those without cardiac events.An increase in the left atrial volume followed by mild left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is related to peripartum cardiac events in women with congenital heart disease who are at low risk for cardiac events during pregnancy.

Background: Peripartum depression (PPD) is underexplored in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective: To evaluate prevalence of and risk factors for PPD in women with MS. Methods: Retrospective single-center analysis of women with MS with a live birth. Prevalence of PPD was estimated with logistic regression with generalized estimating equations (GEE). GEE evaluated predictors of PPD (e.g. age, marital status, parity, pre-pregnancy depression/anxiety, antidepressant discontinuation, sleep disturbance, breastfeeding, relapses, gadolinium-enhancing lesions, and disability). Factors significant in univariable analyses were included in multivariable analysis. Results: We identified 143 live births in 111 women (mean age 33.1 ± 4.7 years). PPD was found in 18/143 pregnancies (12.6%, 95% CI = 7.3–17.8). Factors associated with PPD included older age (OR 1.16, 95% CI = 1.03–1.32 for 1-year increase), primiparity (OR 4.02, CI = 1.14–14.23), pre-pregnancy depression (OR 3.70, CI = 1.27–10.01), sleep disturbance (OR 3.23, CI = 1.17–8.91), and breastfeeding difficulty (OR 3.58, CI = 1.27–10.08). Maternal age (OR 1.17, CI = 1.02–1.34), primiparity (OR 8.10, CI = 1.38–47.40), and pre-pregnancy depression (OR 3.89, CI = 1.04–14.60) remained significant in multivariable analyses. Relapses, MRI activity, and disability were not associated with PPD. Conclusion: The prevalence of PPD in MS appeared similar to the general population, but was likely underestimated due to lack of screening. PPD can affect MS self-management and offspring development, and prospective studies are needed.

Enhanced postnatal prophylaxis is recommended in infants of women with viremia during labor, as identified by viral load (VL) testing late in pregnancy. However, data on the use of antenatal VL to predict peripartum viremia are few, particularly in women starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) in pregnancy who experience initial VL declines.Between January 2016 and August 2017, we identified HIV-infected women who initiated ART (tenofovir, emtricitabine, and efavirenz) antenatally and had a VL400 copies/mL before delivery in Cape Town, South Africa. VLs were repeated postdelivery, and sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) for antenatal VL100 copies/mL in predicting peripartum VLs100 and400 copies/mL were calculated.Among 322 women (median age 29 years, 44% with a history of ART use, median gestation of antenatal VL 33 weeks), antenatal VL was100 copies/mL in 89% and 100-400 copies/mL in 11%. At a median 9 days postpartum, 91%, 7%, and 2% of women had a VL100, 100-400, and400 copies/mL, respectively. Sensitivity of antenatal VL100 copies/mL in predicting peripartum VL100 copies/mL was 0.95 (95% confidence interval: 0.92 to 0.97), and specificity was 0.71 (95% confidence interval: 0.51 to 0.87; LR+ 3.28, LR- 0.07). Performance was slightly weaker to detect peripartum VL400 copies/mL but was similar across strata of gestation at antenatal VL and history of ART use.Antenatal VL is a useful predictor of peripartum viremia in women who started ART in pregnancy and attained a VL400 copies/mL antenatally and may be used to target enhanced postnatal prophylaxis interventions.

Importance There is great concern about the impact of COVID-19 in pregnancy due to the high morbidity and mortality associated with prior coronavirus infections. Objective The objective of this review is to summarize the current literature on the impact of COVID-19 on pregnant women and their newborns. Evidence acquisition The search terms COVID-19 and pregnancy were used in Medline and Clinical Key databases. Only articles written in English with outcome data on both mothers and their newborns were incorporated. Results Pregnant women generally experience COVID-19 as a mild-moderate illness. However, approximately 5% become critically ill. Women with underlying comorbidities seem more likely to experience severe morbidity. Newborns also generally have a favorable course. Vertical transmission in the intrauterine period is possible but rare. Infection control measures need to be taken to prevent transmission during the peripartum period. There is a paucity of data on infections in the first and second trimesters, but research from those infected in the third trimester indicates a possible link with preterm birth. There is a significant percentage of asymptomatic cases. Racial disparities are also being noted with disproportionate numbers of racial/ethnic minorities being affected. Conclusions COVID-19 is generally experienced by pregnant women and their newborns as a mild to moderate illness, although a minority become critically ill and mortality does occur. This is more likely among those with underlying comorbidities, as in the general population. Asymptomatic cases heighten the need for increased testing and infection control measures. Racial disparities highlight underlying vulnerabilities and the need for increased research and policy changes.

Aims Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a pregnancy‐associated cardiomyopathy that occurs in previously heart‐healthy women towards the end of pregnancy or in the first months after delivery and is characterized by heart failure due to systolic dysfunction. The clinical course of PPCM differs between mild symptoms and severe forms with acute heart failure complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS). Treatment of CS complicating PPCM is challenging, as β‐adrenergic receptor (β‐AR) stimulation seems to be associated with progression of heart failure and adverse outcome. This experimental study aims to examine whether postpartum treatment with the glucose uptake‐promoting drug perhexiline alone or as co‐treatment with β‐AR stimulation prevents heart failure in the experimental PPCM mouse model. Methods and results Postpartum (PP) female PPCM‐prone mice with a cardiomyocyte‐restricted STAT3‐deficiency (αMHC‐Cretg/+;Stat3fl/fl; CKO) were treated with perhexiline over two to three pregnancies and nursing periods (2/3PP) or were co‐treated with perhexiline after one pregnancy (1PP) under chronic β‐AR stimulation using isoproterenol (Iso) infusion. Perhexiline was not able to prevent onset of PPCM in CKO mice (FS: CKO Pexsig‐2/3PP: 25 ± 12% vs. CKO Ctrl‐2/3PP: 24 ± 9%, n.s.) but attenuated worsening of left ventricular function in response to treatment with the β‐AR agonist Iso (FS: CKO Pexsig‐Iso‐1PP: 19 ± 4% vs. CKO Ctrl‐Iso‐1PP: 11 ± 5%, P

Background As the use of antibiotics during the peripartum period increases, the incidence of autoimmune disorders and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is also increasing. In this study, we aim to assess if antibiotic exposure during the peripartum period affects the incidence of autoimmune diseases and ASD in the offspring. Methods We identified children (< 18 years of age) born in Olmsted County from January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2012. Offspring with celiac disease (CD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or ASD diagnoses were matched to two controls on birth date, index date, mother’s age at delivery, and sex. Data from the mother’s medical records were retrieved to determine peripartum antibiotics use. Results A total of 242 cases and 484 matched controls were included in this study. Median age at the last follow-up was 11.3 years (range: 0.5–14.9), 73% were males in both groups. Odds of CD diagnosis was not statistically different between vaginal delivery with antibiotics compared with vaginal delivery with no antibiotics (odds ratio [OR] = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–1.85), similarly in IBD (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 0.53–10.98) and ASD (OR = 1.00, 95% CI:0.55–1.79). Preeclampsia or eclampsia was associated with offspring CD (OR = 3.20, 95% CI: 1.05–9.78). Smoking history and diabetes mellitus were associated with offspring ASD (OR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.22–2.77 and OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.03–3.91, respectively). Conclusion In this cohort, we found no statistically significant association between peripartum antibiotics exposure and the development of CD, IBD, or ASD.

Background Shone's syndrome is a rare complex congenital cardiac condition, characterised by a supra-valvular mitral ring, parachute deformity of the mitral valve, aortic stenosis and coarctation of the aorta. Case A 24-year-old parturient with partial Shone's syndrome presented to our delivery unit in pulmonary oedema. She underwent a scheduled cesarean section performed under a combined spinal epidural anesthetic at 33 weeks. She had a multidisciplinary input from the cardiac, obstetric and anesthetic team which led to a good outcome. A review of the six published case reports of Shone's syndrome in pregnancy are presented along with key findings. Conclusions Our case report along with the review highlights the successful use of combined spinal epidural anesthetic, as well as provides guidance to the multidisciplinary team on the varied presentation and the optimum management of women with Shone's syndrome during the peripartum period.

Antibiotics are widely prescribed for mothers in the peripartum period today. Approximately 40% of pregnant women at term are exposed to antibiotics. Antibiotics are useful against infectious conditions such as chorioamnionitis; however, they alter the maternal microbiome. The maternal microbiome, particularly the gut microbiome, is transmitted to their neonates and is one of the major sources that shape the child's gut microbiome. The gut microbiome early in life plays a crucial role in the development of the gut microbiome itself as well as the host health over the entire life. Microbes structure the commensal ecosystem in the host. Simultaneously, microbial components and metabolites influence the host organ functions including the immune system, and vice versa, the various factors of the host impact the microbiome. The alterations of the gut microbiome induced by antibiotics in mothers can lead to gut dysbiosis in children eventually resulting in chronic disease conditions including immune disorders. Knowledge of the lasting impacts of maternal peripartum exposure to antibiotics on the gut microbiome and health in offspring and reconsideration of the adequate use of antibiotics in clinical practice are needed. Avoiding and restoring neonatal dysbiosis following maternal antibiotics-induced dysbiosis could be a new preventive strategy for various diseases.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a disease that occurs globally in all ethnic groups and should be suspected in any peripartum women presenting with symptoms and signs of heart failure, towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery, with confirmed left ventricular dysfunction. After good history taking, all women should be thoroughly assessed, and alternative causes should be excluded. Urgent cardiac investigations with electrocardiogram and natriuretic peptide measurement (if available) should be performed. Echocardiography follows as the next step in investigation. Patients with abnormal cardiac investigations should be urgently referred to a cardiology team for expert management. Referral for genetic work-up should be considered if there is a family history of cardiomyopathy or sudden death. PPCM is a disease with substantial maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Maternal mortality rates range widely, from 0% to 30%, depending on the ethnic background and geographic region. Just under half of women experience myocardial recovery. Remarkable advances in the comprehension of the pathogenesis and in patient management and therapy have been achieved, largely due to team efforts and close collaboration between basic scientists, cardiologists, intensive care specialists, and obstetricians. This review summarizes current knowledge of PPCM genetics, pathophysiology, diagnostic approach, management, and outcome.

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by autoantibodies that inhibit coagulation factor VIII. Pregnancy could be associated with AHA in younger women. Because of its rarity, the optimal management for pregnancy-related AHA has not yet been established. Herein, we present the case of a 32-year-old woman with AHA diagnosed during pregnancy because of elevated activated partial prothrombin time, decreased factor VIII activity, and the presence of a factor VIII inhibitor. She was treated with immunosuppressive therapy consisting of corticosteroid and cyclosporine administration. Although complete remission could not be induced in the peripartum period, she gave birth safely by cesarean delivery in combination with prophylactic bypass hemostatic therapy. This work would provide helpful information to guide better recognition and treatment of pregnancy-related AHA cases.

Acupuncture is the procedure of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body for therapeutic purposes. Acupuncture and its derivatives (acupressure, moxibustion, electroacupuncture, and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation on acupoints) are a popular treatment choice in the peripartum period (32 wk' gestation to 14 d postdelivery). There is substantial research evidence supporting acupuncture and its derivatives in the peripartum period. Benefits in the use of acupressure to reduce labor pain intensity and a reduction in the duration of labor with acupressure have been found. There is mixed evidence for the use of both moxibustion and moxibustion with acupuncture for noncephalic presentations and for acupressure for reducing intraoperative nausea. There is limited evidence available on acupuncture use in women with high-risk pregnancies or multifetal gestations.

Background and Purpose: To study the aetiolgic spectrum of new-onset seizures in the peripartum period in south India.Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of case records of women with new-onset seizures in the peripartum period admitted between 2005 and 2018 (13 years).Results: Of the 41 women (mean age, 26.20 years; range, 19-35 years) admitted, 20 patients (48.7%) had hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Generalized tonic-clonic seizure (88%) was the common seizure type. The aetiologies of new-onset seizures were: 1) pregnancy-related aetiologies in 33 (80.5%) and 2) non-pregnancy-related aetiologies in eight (19.5%). Of the pregnancy-related aetiologies, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) was the commonest cause in 24 patients (58.5%). Seizure cluster presentation was common in patients with PRES (p=0.0087). Of the eight women with non-pregnancy-related aetiologies, endemic central nervous system (CNS) infections accounted for three (7.3%; brain tuberculoma in one and neurocystocercosis in two) of the aetiology. All the women had Glasgow outcome scale-5 outcome.Conclusions: PRES was the common cause of new-onset seizures in peripartum period in this cohort. Endemic infections of CNS accounted for 7.3% of the total aetiological spectrum. This study suggests that the possibility of PRES should be considerd in woman with HDP and seizure cluster in peripartum period.

BACKGROUND Mode of delivery has become an important highlight in managing pregnancy with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to the possible risk of viral transmission from mother to baby, especially during the peripartum period. This study aimed to review the mode of delivery and the possible risk of vertical transmission related to delivery routes in pregnant women with COVID-19. METHODS Literature research was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and EBSCO database with the following keywords: SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, pregnancy, vertical transmission, and delivery. The extracted data were as follows: author, country, study design number of cases, maternal age, mode of delivery, and the SARS-CoV-2 status in neonates. RESULTS Of 11 studies found, vaginal birth was reported in 218 cases (34.53%) and cesarean delivery was reported in 385 women (65.47%). The indication for cesarean delivery was majority due to COVID-19 related condition (53.61%). In total, 8 neonates who confirmed positive for COVID-19 by real-time polymerase chain reaction assay were reported. The pooled odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for SARS-CoV-2-positive neonates in cesarean delivery compared with vaginal birth was 0.622 (0.237–1.633) with p = 0.335. CONCLUSIONS Cesarean delivery is more common than vaginal delivery in patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Any delivery route is not related to possible risk of intrapartum vertical transmission, and cesarean delivery should be carried out based on the obstetric indication.

Hereditary thrombophilia is a condition in which individuals are susceptible to the formation of thrombi due to a hereditary deficiency in anticoagulant factors, antithrombin (AT), protein C (PC), or protein S (PS). Many Japanese thrombophilia patients have PS deficiency, especially PS p.K196E (also called as PS Tokushima), which is exclusive to the Japanese population, and thrombosis sometimes occurs during pregnancy. At present, no management guidelines for pregnancy and delivery in thrombophilia patients have been developed. The Study Group for Hereditary Thrombophilia, one of the research groups of blood coagulation abnormalities in the Research Program on Rare and Intractable Diseases supported with the Research Grants of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Science, has therefore developed this clinical guidance to provide healthcare workers with necessary information on safe pregnancy, parturition and neonatal management, adopting a format of responses to seven clinical questions (CQ). At the end of each answer, the corresponding Recommendation Level (A, B, C) is indicated.

Background: Recreational cannabis use was legalized in Canada in October 2018. We aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of cannabis consumption among pregnant individuals in a single Canadian city following national legalization. Methods: Over the period May to October 2019, we distributed an anonymous cross-sectional survey to pregnant patients attending family practice, midwifery, and low-risk and high-risk obstetrics clinics in Hamilton, Ontario. Eligibility was based on English literacy and current pregnancy. The survey included questions regarding lifetime and in-pregnancy cannabis use, intent for postpartum use and patterns of use. We also collected demographic information. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed logistic regression analyses to explore the relations between cannabis consumption and demographic characteristics. Results: Of 531 pregnant individuals approached, 478 agreed and were able to participate, for a 90% participation rate. Among these 478 respondents, 54 (11%) reported consuming cannabis at some point during the pregnancy and 20 (4%) reported currently consuming cannabis. Among the 460 respondents who intended to breastfeed, 23 (5%) planned to consume cannabis during the postpartum period. Of 20 current users, 13 (65%) reported consuming cannabis at least weekly and 19 (95%) reported nausea, sleep problems or anxiety as reasons for use. Respondents without postsecondary education had 10.0-fold (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.6–23.5) greater odds of prenatal cannabis consumption than university-educated respondents. In addition, respondents who reported that their partners used cannabis had 3.9-fold (95% CI 2.2–7.3) greater odds of prenatal cannabis consumption than those who reported that their partners did not use cannabis. Interpretation: Lower educational attainment and partners’ cannabis consumption were associated with greater odds of inpregnancy cannabis use. These results may help to inform early intervention strategies to decrease cannabis consumption during this vulnerable period of fetal and neonatal development.

While the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to wreak havoc across the nation and the globe as one of the most significant global health crises of our time, recent attention has been turned to the effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy and the puerperium. Although most cases have been asymptomatic, for some patients, the disease may be accompanied by serious complications such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, multi organ failure, and death. Several case studies have noted that patients with co-morbidities are at a significant risk of these complications. In a recent systematic review and meta-analysis, authors conclude that cardiovascular disease was associated with increased composite poor outcome in patients with COVID-19. The following case report highlights the multi-system complications and severity of symptoms that can take place after childbirth in a patient with co-morbid obstetric and prenatal conditions and an initially asymptomatic COVID-19 infection.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a form of idiopathic systolic heart failure which occurs during the end of pregnancy or the early post-partum in the absence of an identifiable etiology. The exact pathogenesis remains unknown, and the incidence is higher in African ancestry, multiparous and hypertensive women, or older maternal age. Delay in diagnosis is common, mainly because symptoms of heart failure mimic those of normal pregnancy. Echocardiography showing decreased myocardial function is at the center of the diagnosis. Management relies on the general guidelines of management of other forms of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy; however, special attention should be paid when choosing medications to ensure fetal safety. Outcomes can be variable and can range from complete recovery to persistent heart failure requiring transplant or even death. High rates of relapse with subsequent pregnancies can occur, especially with incomplete myocardial recovery. Additional research about the etiology, experimental drugs, prognosis, and duration of treatment after recovery are needed.

Introduction: Depression is one of the most common complications in pregnancy, affecting 10% to 20% of women. Untreated peripartum depression increases the risk of adverse life events, more considerable distress, homelessness, and illness later in life. This study explored the prevalence of peripartum depression and associated demographic characteristics in a population of low-income, Healthy Start program participants in one New Mexico county along the U.S.–Mexico border where knowledge of depression prevalence is lacking. Materials and Methods: Healthy Start caseworkers routinely administered the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to all pregnant and recently pregnant program participants between 2009 and 2017. Scores for the first prenatal screen, first postpartum screen, and all screens for 1453 women were studied. A score of >10 points out of a possible 30 indicated a positive screen. Screening outcome was examined in relation to age, race, ethnicity, primary language, and trimester of the prenatal screen. Crude and adjusted odds ratios were generated from logistic regression models. Results: Overall, 16.4% of women screened positive for depression. English-speaking women, non-Hispanic white women, and those ages >35 years were more likely to screen positive. Women >35 years also had higher odds of reporting thoughts of self-harm than younger women. Conclusion: In this low-income border population, non-Hispanic white, English-speaking women over the age of 35 were at the greatest risk of peripartum depression. These findings underscore the need for peripartum depression screening in this population.

We report a case series of six women with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) who incidentally underwent echocardiography prior to the clinical presentation of PPCM. For comparison, we identified controls, matched 2:1 on age, race, body mass index, gestational age, and hypertensive disorder. Among the six cases, all were diagnosed with PPCM during the post‐partum period. Pre‐PPCM echocardiograms were performed between 17.7 weeks of gestation and 13 days post‐partum. Baseline left ventricular ejection fraction and size were normal and similar to the 12 matched controls (60% ± 6.6% vs. 61.4% ± 6.3%, P = 0.63) or left ventricular end‐diastolic dimension (4.6 cm ± 0.2 cm vs. 4.5 cm ± 0.4 cm, P = 0.689). There was a trend towards a less negative (more abnormal) mean global longitudinal strain in cases compared with controls (−14% ± 4% vs. −18.3% ± 4.5%, P = 0.0658). Mean global circumferential strain was significantly less negative (more abnormal) in cases compared with controls (−21.5% ± 5% vs. −29.3% ± 7.6%, P = 0.0329). We conclude that women who develop PPCM have normal left ventricular ejection fraction during gestation preceding PPCM, indicating that the disease develops acutely in the peripartum period. Abnormal strain can be detected, however, suggesting that strain imaging could represent a screening method in populations at high risk for PPCM if confirmed in future studies.

In this review, we aim to summarize research findings and marketplace apps for women with perinatal mood disorders with the goal of informing clinicians and patients about current risks and benefits, as well as proposing clinical implementation advice and a harmonized agenda for both academic and industry advancement in this space. Multiple searches were run of academic databases in 2018–2020, examining literature on mobile apps for peripartum mental health. Multiple searches were also run of the iOS and Android app stores in 2019 and 2020, looking at apps for peripartum mental health. Results were compared within the academic dataset as well within the commercial app dataset; the two datasets were also examined for overlap. The academic search results were notable for small sample sizes and heterogeneous endpoints. The app store search results were notable for apps of generally poor quality (as assessed by a modified Silberg scale). Very few of the mHealth interventions studied in the academic literature were available in the app store; very few of the apps from the commercial stores were supported by academic literature. The disconnect between academically developed apps and commercially available apps highlights the need for better collaboration between academia and industry. More collaboration between the two approaches may benefit both app developers and patients in this demographic moving forwards. Additionally, we present a set of practice guidelines for mHealth in perinatal psychiatry based on the trends identified in this review. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00737-021-01138-z.

Aim To determine the incidence rate of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) among term neonates (gestation greater than 37 weeks) admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit for suspected sepsis and the association of EONS with maternal fever (temperature greater than 38°C). Methods A single-centre retrospective cohort study of all term neonates (gestation >37 weeks) admitted to and treated in the neonatal unit at the Townsville University Hospital between March 2015 and March 2020. Neonatal sepsis was confirmed with positive neonatal blood culture. Data on neonatal birth/stay and maternal pregnancy were collected from the electronic medical records and neonatal database. Results Data from 737 neonates who were admitted for treatment of EONS were analysed. Sixty % (426) reported maternal intrapartum fever, with 1.1% (5) of neonates developing blood culture-proven sepsis. Forty % did not report intrapartum fever (311), with 3% (9) of neonates developing sepsis. As such, the sensitivity and specificity of maternal fever are 1.14% and 97%, respectively. The positive predictive value was 35.7%, and the negative predictive value was 40.1%. Fourteen neonates developed EONS, and all of them were symptomatic. Seventy-eight % (334/426) of the women in the febrile group received epidural analgesia compared to 5% (16/311) in the afebrile group. Of the 95 neonates born to women with chorioamnionitis, one (1.0%) of the neonates born to women with chorioamnionitis developed sepsis. Conclusions Intrapartum maternal fever is an unreliable predictor for EONS and leads to unnecessary antibiotic treatment. Symptoms in the neonate are a more reliable indicator of an ill neonate with blood culture-proven sepsis.

Purpose of review Pregnancy exacerbates sickle cell disease (SCD) and is associated with increased frequency and severity of complications resulting in high levels of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. We review recent recommendations for managing SCD in pregnancy. Recent findings An updated pathobiological model of SCD now attributes the clinical picture to a vicious cycle of four major cellular disturbances. Management decisions should be guided by an understanding of this upgraded model. Red cell transfusions are a key therapeutic intervention used in managing several acute and chronic complications. Transfusion however has significant drawbacks. The American Society of Hematology recently published transfusion guidelines to support care providers. Summary Patients should be managed by a multidisciplinary and experienced team. The perioperative episode is a recognized period of disease exacerbation and informed anesthetic management can contribute to improved patient outcomes.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Opioid use disorder (OUD) in pregnancy has more than quadrupled in prevalence over the past two decades and continues to increase steadily every year. With no defined standard of care for the management of pain during the peripartum period, variability in treatment plans potentially leaves room for interrupted patient care, decreased patient satisfaction, and poorer outcomes. The impact of OUD and its management during the peripartum period has become more widely discussed over the past several years and is the focus of this review. RECENT FINDINGS Current recommendations including developing a detailed institutional plan for the management of pain for women with OUD during the intrapartum and postpartum periods. There is tremendous value in exploring partnerships with other specialties, including addiction medicine, and behavioral health and obstetrics in development of policies and procedures. Consistency within institutions is critical to improve patient outcomes. SUMMARY This review will address both pain management recommendations and best clinical practices regarding management of the parturient during the transition periods of the peripartum, intrapartum, and postpartum period. Novel approaches and perspectives from case reports and narrative experience will also be discussed. There are many opportunities in this field for further studies, research, and evidence-based guidelines that promote an established standard of care.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to explore the risk factors associated with a poor left ventricular (LV) function among patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) and to determine the influence of acute kidney injury (AKI) on the LV function of the patients.MethodsSixty patients with PPCM were recruited between January 2007 and June 2018, among which 11 had AKI. The participants were divided into two groups, the recovery group (32 cases) and the nonrecovery group (28 cases), with their clinical features, echocardiography and electrocardiogram findings, laboratory results, and treatments compared between groups. We further determined the risk factors associated with nonrecovery and the influence posed by AKI on the LV function of the patients.ResultsCompared with the patients in the recovery group, those in the nonrecovery group had higher proportions of multiparity [78.6% (22/28) vs. 43.8% (14/32)], function class III– IV heart failure [92.9% (26/28) vs. 71.9% (23/32)], and a higher incidence of AKI [35.7% (10/28) vs. 3.1% (1/32)]. Logistic regression analysis showed that having AKI [odds ratio (OR): 10.556; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.177–94.654;P = 0.035] and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) P = 0.034] were independently associated with nonrecovery of PPCM.ConclusionsThe prognosis of patients with PPCM and AKI during hospitalization was poor compared to those without AKI; therefore, clinicians should pay more attention to this phenomenon.

Introduction SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus that was first isolated in Wuhan, China, and resulted in a rapidly spreading pandemic worldwide. Currently there is only limited evidence on the effect of COVID-19 on pregnant women. Case Here we present one of the first serious COVID-19 cases in pregnancy at term with subsequent delivery. Postpartum the mother required antibiotic and symptomatic treatment. She experienced acute worsening of symptoms and developed acute respiratory failure requiring endotracheal intubation and subsequently extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Conclusion COVID-19 affects all medical disciplines, requiring interdisciplinary approaches and development of patient care regimes. Obstetricians should be aware and be prepared for the special needs of pregnant women with potential prenatal and postnatal issues. Ideally pregnant COVID-19 patients should be cared for at a tertiary perinatal center with experienced perinatologists and neonatologists.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare type of cardiomyopathy. PPCM is a potentially life-threatening pregnancy-associated disease that typically arises in peripartum period and is marked with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and heart failure. The cause of PPCM remain unclear, but several mechanisms have been proposed ehich indices a potentially multi-factorial etiology. Early case reports identified overlap between familial dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and PPCM, although the degree of overlap is largely unknown. Many evidence supporting a contribution from gene mutations in PPCM includes genome-wide association studies, familial occurrence, variable prevalence among different regions and ethnicities, and more recent investigations of panels of genes for mutations among women with PPCM. Although the true incidence of genetic cardiomyopathy is not yet known among women with PPCM, there is substantial evidence demonstrating that genetic contribution to their condition.

Background This study describes the characteristics of pregnant women on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the rate of peripartum virologic suppression in a large prevention of mother-to-child transmission cohort who delivered in some selected maternity centers in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. In addition, the study examines the factors associated with virologic suppression in the cohort. Methods This multicenter, retrospective cross-sectional analysis included medical data of 1709 women with human immunodeficiency virus between September 2015 and May 2016 in Eastern Cape Province. The main outcome measure was the rate of peripartum virologic suppression, defined as viral load (VL), In this multicenter, cross-sectional analysis of women with human immunodeficiency virus, younger age (18–24 years) and smoking during pregnancy were significantly associated with lower odds of peripartum virologic suppression. Self-reported complete adherence was associated with higher odds of peripartum viral load suppression.

The peripartum period (pregnancy and postpartum) is a unique time filled with psychodynamic and biological changes that are critical in affecting the lives of mother and baby. Attachment, the biologically based emotional connection between a caregiver and infant, is critical to the development of the child. The early interactions in an infant's life shape their reward neuro-circuitry and the development of their internal working models and styles of attachment. Opioid use disorders in the mother affect the psychodynamics and neurobiology of attachment. There is significant overlap between the neurobiology of attachment and that of opioid use disorders. In this article, we hope to describe how opioid use disorders affect mother-infant attachment and how psychodynamic psychotherapy that is informed by attachment theory may be a potential treatment for mothers with opioid use disorders. Further, oxytocin plays a role in the attachment process and may function abnormally in mothers with opioid use disorders. As oxytocin affects attachment, administration of oxytocin during postpartum mother-infant interactions in the setting of psychotherapy may facilitate bonding and promote recovery from opioid use disorders in the peripartum population.

INTRODUCTION: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) carries a high burden of adverse maternal outcomes, especially significant blood loss, which can be life-threatening. Different management strategies have been proposed but the association of clinical risk factors and surgical management options during cesarean delivery with high blood loss is not clear. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this international multicenter study, 338 women with PAS undergoing cesarean delivery were included. Fourteen European and one non-European center (USA) provided cases treated retrospectively between 2008 and 2014 and prospectively from 2014 to 2019. Peripartum blood loss was estimated visually and/or by weighing and measuring of volume. Participants were grouped based on blood loss above or below the 75th percentile (>3500 ml) and the 90th percentile (>5500 ml). RESULTS: Placenta percreta was found in 58% of cases. Median blood loss was 2000 ml (range: 150-20 000 ml). Unplanned hysterectomy was associated with an increased risk of blood loss >3500 ml when compared with planned hysterectomy (adjusted OR [aOR] 3.7 [1.5-9.4], p = 0.01). Focal resection was associated with blood loss comparable to that of planned hysterectomy (crude OR 0.7 [0.2-2.1], p = 0.49). Blood loss >3500 ml was less common in patients undergoing successful conservative management (placenta left in situ, aOR 0.1 [0.0-0.6], p = 0.02) but was more common in patients who required delayed hysterectomy (aOR 6.5 [1.7-24.4], p = 0.001). Arterial occlusion methods (uterine or iliac artery ligation, embolization or intravascular balloons), application of uterotonic medication or tranexamic acid showed no significant effect on blood loss >3500 ml. Patients delivered by surgeons without experience in PAS were more likely to experience blood loss >3500 ml (aOR 3.0 [1.4-6.4], p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In pregnant women with PAS, the likelihood of blood loss >3500 ml was reduced in planned vs unplanned cesarean delivery, and when the surgery was performed by a specialist experienced in the management of PAS. This reinforces the necessity of delivery by an expert team. Conservative management was also associated with less blood loss, but only if successful. Therefore, careful patient selection is of great importance. Our study showed no consistent benefit of other adjunct measures such as arterial occlusion techniques, uterotonics or tranexamic acid.

Rhabdomyolysis complicating the antepartum or peripartum period is not a commonly reported finding and where they occur, it can be life-threatening. The problem with rhabdomyolysis during pregnancy or labour is the potential harmful systemic and local effects it can cause. These includes cardiac arrhythmias, acute kidney injury, clotting problems in severe cases [1]. To the fetus, foetal distress or foetal demise could be the end-result where timely management is not initiated [2].

The high prevalence of peripartum depression (PPD) among mothers of preterm infants concerns health professionals due to its implications for mothers' and infants' health. A model for explaining PPD, consisting of four personal resources was examined: locus of control, intolerance to uncertainty, maternal self-efficacy, and quality of the couple relationship.In one of the largest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in Israel, 129 mothers of 215 preterm infants completed self-report questionnaires regarding their background variables, locus of control, intolerance to uncertainty, maternal self-efficacy and quality of couple relationship.PPD symptoms and high risk for diagnosing clinical PPD.The examined personal resources explained 43.9% of the variance in PPD symptoms. Intolerance to uncertainty was positively associated with PPD symptoms, while internal locus of control, high levels of maternal self-efficacy, and high quality of couple relationships were found to be negatively associated with PPD symptoms. Additionally, these variables predicted the likelihood for clinical PPD.The findings indicate a potential likelihood of reducing PPD through healthcare professional interventions, by strengthening personal resources. Associations between personal resources and PPD are discussed in light of the transactional theory of coping.

Background: Although previous cohort studies of women with multiple sclerosis (MS) yielded a reduction in relapse rate during pregnancy, the effect size has not been quantified in a comprehensive manner. In addition, the effects on disability progression and peripartum outcomes have been controversial. The purpose of this work is to assess the effect of pregnancy on disease activity, and to assess the effects of MS on pregnancy as well. Materials & methods: We searched in PubMed, Cochrane Library and EMBASE for cohort studies dealing with the effects of pregnancy on relapse rates, disability progression and peripartum outcomes in women with MS. The evaluated outcomes were: changes in the annualized relapse rate (ARR) in pregnancy and puerperium, disability worsening compared with the year before pregnancy, and peripartum outcomes, which were compared with the ones of non-MS women. In the majority of cohorts included here, the women were not under disease modifying therapies during pregnancy. Results: We found 23 cohort studies measuring changes in the ARR during pregnancy and puerperium; 12 were prospective and 11 retrospective. In 17 cohorts there was significant reduction in the ARR during pregnancy compared with prepregnancy period. The pooled mean reduction in the ARR was -0.5 (95% CI: 0.67–0.38), p Conclusion: Pregnancy is associated with lower disease activity, and puerperium with higher disease activity. Disability does not change significantly after pregnancy. The obstetrical outcomes are not very different from those of non-MS women in most cohorts.

Fatty liver syndrome is a prevalent metabolic disorder in peripartum dairy cows that unfavorably impacts lactation performance and health. Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) is a lipase that plays a central role in human non-alcoholic fatty liver disease etiology but has received limited attention in bovine fatty liver research. Thus, we investigated the relationship between tissue PNPLA3 expression and liver triglyceride accumulation in vivo via a ketosis induction protocol in multiparous dairy cows peripartum, as well as in vitro via small interfering RNA knockdown of PNPLA3 mRNA expression in bovine primary hepatocytes. Results demonstrated a negative association (P = 0.04) between liver PNPLA3 protein abundance and liver triglyceride content in peripartum dairy cows, while adipose PNPLA3 protein abundance was not associated with liver triglyceride content or blood fatty acid concentration. Knockdown of PNPLA3 mRNA resulted in reduced PNPLA3 protein abundance (P P

HIV infection during pregnancy, may present risk of developing depression during pregnancy and postpartum. This psychiatric mood disorder, and many others such as anxiety and HIV-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been reported prevalent among pregnant and non-pregnant women living with HIV (WLWH). Multiple studies have found associations between social determinants of health and depressive symptoms in this population. However, despite deleterious effects on mother and child which may include suicidal ideations and infant death, only very few studies have examined this phenomenon for peripartum women, particularly Black women- a population prone to living in poor social and economic environments. Therefore, guided by the socio-ecologic model, this study examined predictors of peripartum depressive symptoms among Black peripartum WLWH. The study was a secondary data analysis of 143 Black women seen at special prenatal and women's health clinics in Miami, South Florida, USA. More than half of the women who experienced peripartum depressive symptoms (PDS) (n = 81, 57%) were of low socio-economic status. Low income was associated with increased odds of experiencing PDS. Women who endorsed intimate partner violence/abuse (IPV/A) were 6.5 times more likely to experience PDS; and compared to women with 1 or no childcare burden, women with 2 children-care burden were 4.6 times more likely to experience PDS. These findings demonstrate the negative impact of social factors on the psychological health of Black peripartum WLWH. Burdensome interpersonal relationships may have deleterious effects and trigger PDS among these women. Implications for nursing practice, education and research are also discussed.

Background Angiogenic imbalance involving the placental protein soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and cleavage of the nursing-hormone prolactin by the enzyme cathepsin D (CD) both play a role in the pathogenesis of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). We hypothesized that angiogenic imbalance and increased activity of CD have a long-lasting impact in women with PPCM. Methods and Results A nationwide Danish cohort of women with PPCM (PPCM group, n = 28), age matched women with previous preeclampsia (n = 28) and uncomplicated pregnancies (n = 28) participated in a follow-up study including biomarker analysis, exercise testing and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The median time to follow-up was 91 months (range 27–137 months) for the PPCM group. Levels of sFlt-1, placental growth factor, N-terminal pro-natriuretic brain peptide, and copeptin were all significantly higher in the PPCM group. More women in the PPCM group had detectable CD activity (68%) compared with the preeclampsia group (29%) and uncomplicated pregnancies group (36%) (P = .0002). Levels of angiogenic factors and biomarkers correlated inversely with maximal exercise capacity and cardiac functional parameters assessed with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Conclusions Women with PPCM had higher biomarker levels and CD activity up to 7 years after diagnosis. Higher biomarker levels correlated inversely with maximal exercise capacity and markers of cardiac dysfunction suggesting that persistent angiogenic imbalance and increased CD activity is associated with residual cardiac dysfunction.

Introduction The main complication of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is massive bleeding. Endoarterial occlusion techniques have been incorporated into the management of this pathology. Our aim was to examine the endovascular practice patterns among PAS patients treated during a 9-year period in a low-middle income country in which an interdisciplinary group's technical skills were improved with the creation of a PAS team. Methodology A retrospective cohort study including all PAS patients treated from December 2011 to November 2020 was performed. We compared the clinical results obtained according to the type of endovascular device used (group 1, internal iliac artery occlusion balloons; group 2, resuscitative endovascular balloons of the aorta; group 3, no arterial balloons due to low risk of bleeding) and according to the year in which they were attended (reflects the PAS team level of experience). A fourth group of comparisons included the woman diagnosed during a cesarean delivery and treated in a nonprotocolized way. Results A total of 113 patients were included. The amount of blood loss decreased annually, with a median of 2,500 mL in 2014 (when endovascular occlusion balloons were used in all patients) and 1,394 mL in 2020 (when only 38.5% of the patients required arterial balloons). Group 3 patients (n = 16) had the lowest bleeding volume (1,245 mL) and operative time (173 minutes) of the entire population studied. Group 2 patients (n = 46) had a bleeding volume (mean, 1,700 mL) and transfusions frequency (34.8%) slightly lower than group 1 patients (n = 30) (mean of 2,000 mL and 50%, respectively). They also had lower hysterectomy frequency (63% vs. 76.7% in group 1) and surgical time (205 minutes vs. 275 in group 1) despite a similar frequency of confirmed PAS and S2 compromise. Conclusion Endovascular techniques used for bleeding control in PAS patients are less necessary as interdisciplinary groups improve their surgical and teamwork skills. Level of evidence Therapeutic care management, level III.

Objective To identify changing trends in peripartum hysterectomy (PH), both elective. cesarean hysterectomy and emergency cesarean hysterectomy, at a single training and research hospital over the last 17 years in Istanbul, Turkey. Materials and methods A retrospective cohort study was performed between January 2001 and September 2017. The records of all patients who had PH at Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital were analyzed. Results There were 243 cases of PH during the study period. A total of 266,386 births occurred, of which 60.1% were vaginal deliveries and 39.8% were cesarean sections. The incidence of PH increased from 0.67 per 1000 deliveries to 1.14 per 1000 deliveries during 2001–2008 and 2009–2017, respectively, with an overall incidence of 0.91 per 1000 deliveries during the 17 years. The main indication for PH changed significantly during this time from uterine atony (57.1%) to placenta accreta spectrum (85%). About 37% of women who underwent PH had at least one previous cesarean delivery during 2001–2008, whereas that percentage increased to 95.4% during 2009–2017. Conclusion Placenta accreta spectrum was the leading cause of PH and was associated with significant maternal morbidity and mortality.

Maternal sepsis is a major contributor to global maternal mortality. The physiological changes associated with pregnancy can obscure some of the recognised signs and symptoms of sepsis. Modified early obstetric warning score charts and sepsis screening tools aid the early identification of the septic patient. Management of maternal sepsis should involve the whole multidisciplinary team and is centred on urgent resuscitation, promt initiation of antimicrobial therapy and source control. There are logistical challenges in managing maternal sepsis in the peripartum period requiring close collaboration betwen critical care and maternity services.

Objective Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are a group of pathologies associated with an increased rate of abortions, premature deliveries, cesarean sections and other morbidity during the peripartum period. The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the anesthetic management for delivery of women with IBD. Material and methods The records of patients with IBD, who delivered at our Center, were obtained for data which included anesthetic and obstetric management as well as neonatal outcome. Five subgroups were defined based on mode of delivery, presence or absence of epidural in normal vaginal delivery (NVD) and urgency of cesarean section, each of which was compared with control groups of healthy parturients in the same period. Additionally, the rate of cesarean sections and the use of epidural analgesia for NVD were compared with the general obstetric population of our center in the same period. Results 107 patients with IBD who delivered at our center were studied. The rates of cesarean sections and emergency cesarean sections were significantly higher compared to the general population. However, the rate of instrumental delivery and of epidural analgesia use for NVD were similar. Among those who underwent cesarean sections, no significant differences were found in anesthesia type, surgery duration, number of complications, type of monitoring or postoperative management compared to the control group. Conclusion Peripartum anesthetic management of patients with IBD does not differ significantly from that of parturients without it. Anesthesiologists can plan their anesthesia in a similar way as they do in healthy parturients.