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Copyright of University of Health Sciences Journal of Nursing is the property of Saglik Bilimleri Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: to analyze maternal-fetal attachment and interrelated factors in pregnant women assisted in Primary Health Care. Method: a cross-sectional, population-based, analytical epidemiological survey. A sample of 937 participants attended by Family Health Strategy teams was investigated. Maternal-fetal attachment (outcome), sociodemographic and clinical variables, social support, family functionality, depressive symptoms and perceived stress were assessed. Multivariate analysis was adopted using structural equation modeling. Results: maternal-fetal attachment had an average of 92.6 (SD=±15.3). The adjusted structural model showed that the following factors had a direct effect on the outcome: gestational weeks (β=0.29; p

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale applied to pregnant women in Primary Health Care. Method This is a methodological study conducted with 937 pregnant women assisted in the Family Health Strategy in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Psychometric sensitivity, construct and criterion validity, and reliability were evaluated. Results The instrument achieved adequate psychometric sensitivity (skewness < 3 and kurtosis < 7). Quality fit indicators of the model were obtained: x2/gl = 4.72, CFI = 0.89, GFI = 0.90, TLI = 0.87, RMSEA = 0.063 (90% CI = 0.059-0.067, p = 0.000). Hypothesis testing indicated associations with marital status (p = 0.036), income (p= 0.030), trimester (p < 0.001), planned pregnancy (p = 0.003), social support (p < 0.001), and family APGAR score (p < 0.001). Significant correlations (p < 0.001) with stress (r = -0.12) and depressive symptoms (r = -0.17) demonstrated divergent criterion validity. Cronbach’s α of 0.874 was recorded. Conclusion The scale showed adequate psychometric evidence for application to pregnant women in the Primary Health Care setting.

Background: Women have less interaction with the fetus in unplanned pregnancies. This study aimed to determine the effect of an antenatal training program on maternal-fetal attachment in unplanned pregnancies. Methods: This single-blind clinical trial was performed in the north of Iran in 2019. By simple randomization, 76 mothers with unplanned pregnancies were allocated to the intervention and control groups. Mothers in the intervention group attended three sessions (90 minutes per session) of training based on interaction with the fetus in small groups. The control group only received routine care. Data collection instruments included a demographics checklist, London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy, and Cranley’s Maternal-Fetal Attachment scale. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square, Fisher’s Exact test, t-test, analysis of covariance, and multivariate analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Results: The mean difference of maternal-fetal attachment before and after training was 3.41±2.08 (P=0.112) in the intervention group and 3.96±2.17 (P=0.078) in the control group. However, the differences between and within groups were not significant. The differences in the subscales of attachment with the fetus were not also significant between the groups after the intervention. Although the post-intervention attachment score for unwanted pregnancy was lower than mistimed pregnancy in the intervention (mean difference: 14±3.61) and control groups (mean difference: 3.70±1.87), it was not significantly different based on the type of pregnancy between the groups. Conclusion: Maternal-fetal attachment training did not boost interaction with the fetus in mothers with unplanned pregnancies; thus, deeper psychological interventions are needed.

Abstract Background Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the predominant birth defect. This study aimed to explore the association between maternal cardiovascular health (CVH) and the CHD risk in offspring. Methods We used the prospective data from the Fujian Birth Cohort Study, collected from March 2019 to December 2022 on pregnant women within 14 weeks of gestation. Overall maternal CVH was assessed by seven CVH metrics (including physical activity, smoking, sleep duration, body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose), with each metric classified as ideal, intermediate or poor with specific points. Participants were further allocated into high, moderate and low CVH categories based on the cumulative CVH score. The association with offspring CHD was determined with log-binominal regression models. Results A total of 19810 participants aged 29.7 (SD: 3.9) years were included, with 7846 (39.6%) classified as having high CVH, 10949 (55.3%) as having moderate CVH, and 1015 (5.1%) as having low CVH. The average offspring CHD rate was 2.52%, with rates of 2.35%, 2.52% and 3.84% across the high, moderate and low CVH categories, respectively (P = 0.02). Adjusted relative risks (RRs) of having offspring CHD were 0.64 (95% CI: 0.45-0.90, P = 0.001) for high CVH and 0.67 (95% CI: 0.48-0.93, P = 0.02) for moderate CVH compared to low CVH. For individual metrics, only ideal total cholesterol was significantly associated with lower offspring CHD (RR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.59-0.83, P = 0.002). Conclusions Pregnant women of high or moderate CVH categories in early pregnancy had reduced risks of CHD in offspring, compared to those of low CVH. It is important to monitor and improve CVH during pre-pregnancy counseling and early prenatal care.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies beyond 40 weeks gestation. Method: The study included 476 patients who gave birth between October 2016 and October 2017 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic of Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşcıoğlu City Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey. Of the patients included in the study, 342 had delivered between 400/7 and 406/7 gestational weeks, 115 between 410/7 and 416/7 gestational weeks, and 19 between 420/7 and 426/7 gestational weeks. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS software, Windows version 24.0, and a p-value

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the predominant birth defect. This study aimed to explore the association between maternal cardiovascular health (CVH) and the CHD risk in offspring. Methods: We used the prospective data from the Fujian Birth Cohort Study, collected from March 2019 to December 2022 on pregnant women within 14 weeks of gestation. Overall maternal CVH was assessed by seven CVH metrics (including physical activity, smoking, sleep duration, body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose), with each metric classified as ideal, intermediate or poor with specific points. Participants were further allocated into high, moderate and low CVH categories based on the cumulative CVH score. The association with offspring CHD was determined with log-binominal regression models. Results: A total of 19810 participants aged 29.7 (SD: 3.9) years were included, with 7846 (39.6%) classified as having high CVH, 10949 (55.3%) as having moderate CVH, and 1015 (5.1%) as having low CVH. The average offspring CHD rate was 2.52%, with rates of 2.35%, 2.52% and 3.84% across the high, moderate and low CVH categories, respectively (P = 0.02). Adjusted relative risks (RRs) of having offspring CHD were 0.64 (95% CI: 0.45-0.90, P = 0.001) for high CVH and 0.67 (95% CI: 0.48-0.93, P = 0.02) for moderate CVH compared to low CVH. For individual metrics, only ideal total cholesterol was significantly associated with lower offspring CHD (RR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.59-0.83, P = 0.002). Conclusions: Pregnant women of high or moderate CVH categories in early pregnancy had reduced risks of CHD in offspring, compared to those of low CVH. It is important to monitor and improve CVH during pre-pregnancy counseling and early prenatal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bagcilar Medical Bulletin / Bağcılar Tıp Bülteni is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACT Objectives: to develop and evaluate a Middle-Range Theory for the nursing diagnosis “Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk” in high-risk pregnancies. Methods: this methodological study was conducted in two stages: theory development and evaluation. Dorothea Orem’s General Nursing Model was used as the theoretical-conceptual foundation. Evaluation was conducted using the Delphi method with seven judges, and consensus was achieved when the Content Validity Index of the evaluated items was ≥ 0.80. Results: the theory identified 20 elements of the nursing diagnosis “Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk” (10 risk factors, 4 at-risk populations, and 6 associated conditions), 14 propositions, and 1 pictogram. After two rounds of evaluation, the theory was considered consistent, with consensus reached for all items, each achieving a Content Validity Index ≥ 0.80. Conclusions: the Middle-Range Theory included biopsychosocial factors explaining the nursing phenomenon “Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk,” which aids in nurses’ diagnostic reasoning.

Abstract Background Considering the role of fear of childbirth (FOC) in the enhancement of unnecessary cesarean sections (CS), the present study aimed at evaluating the effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and haptonomy on the FOC (as primary outcome) and intended birth method and final birth method (as secondary outcomes) among primigravida women. Methods This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 99 primigravida women in Tabriz, Iran 2022. Participants were assigned to three groups with a ratio of 1:1:1 using stratified block randomization based on the fear intensity. One of the intervention groups (n = 33) received eight group sessions of CBT from 24 to 28 weeks of gestation and the other intervention group (n = 33) received haptonomy during seven sessions once a week. The control group (n = 33) received routine prenatal care. The Wijma questionnaire was completed by the participants before the intervention, after the intervention at 35–37 weeks of gestation, and after birth. The intended birth method was investigated before and after the intervention at 35–37 weeks of gestation. The final birth method and the reasons for CS were recorded based on the mother’s medical profile. The one-way ANOVA was used before the intervention and RMANOVA after the intervention to compare the mean scores of FOC among the three groups. Further, chi-square test was applied to compare the intended and final birth method. Results The mean (standard deviation: SD) of FOC in the CBT group changed from 74.09 (11.35) at 24–28 weeks of gestation to 46.50 (18.28) at 35–37 weeks and 48.78 (20.64) after birth (P < 0.001). The means (SDs) of FOC in the haptonomy group were 76.81 (13.09), 46.59 (15.81), and 45.09 (20.11), respectively (P < 0.001). The mean (SD) of FOC in the control group decreased from 70.31 (6.71) to 66.56 (18.92) and then, increased to 71.00 (21.14) after birth (P = 0.878). After the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in terms of the intended birth method (P = 0.278), and final birth method (P = 0.107). Conclusion The findings of the present study revealed that both CBT and haptonomy interventions reduce FOC. Although the desire for vaginal birth and final vaginal birth in the haptonomy group was more than that in the other two groups, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups. Trial registration Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20170506033834N9. Date of registration: 02.01.2022. URL: http://en.irct.ir .

Abstract Background Pregnancy and childbirth experience can be important factors for a pleasant relationship between mother and baby. This study assessed the relationship between the pregnancy and birth experience with maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) and mother-child bonding. Methods A descriptive-analytical study was conducted among 228 pregnant women in Tabriz, Iran February 2022 to March 2023. Using cluster random sampling method, we included 228 women with gestational age 28–36 weeks and followed them up until six weeks postpartum. Data were collected in two stages using the following questionnaires: Pregnancy Experience Scale (hassles and uplifts), Maternal-Fetal Attachment Questionnaire (during the third trimester of pregnancy), Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire, and Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (six weeks postpartum). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation test and general linear model. Results The mean score of MFA was significantly higher among women with feelings of being uplifted during pregnancy [β (95% CI) = 1.14 (0.87 to 1.41); p 0.05). Also, there was no statistically significant relationship between childbirth experience and mother-child bonding (p > 0.05). Conclusion According to the results of this study, pregnancy uplifts have a positive role in improving MFA. Therefore, it is recommended to plan interventions to make pregnancy period a pleasant experience for mothers.

Background: Considering the role of fear of childbirth (FOC) in the enhancement of unnecessary cesarean sections (CS), the present study aimed at evaluating the effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and haptonomy on the FOC (as primary outcome) and intended birth method and final birth method (as secondary outcomes) among primigravida women. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 99 primigravida women in Tabriz, Iran 2022. Participants were assigned to three groups with a ratio of 1:1:1 using stratified block randomization based on the fear intensity. One of the intervention groups (n = 33) received eight group sessions of CBT from 24 to 28 weeks of gestation and the other intervention group (n = 33) received haptonomy during seven sessions once a week. The control group (n = 33) received routine prenatal care. The Wijma questionnaire was completed by the participants before the intervention, after the intervention at 35–37 weeks of gestation, and after birth. The intended birth method was investigated before and after the intervention at 35–37 weeks of gestation. The final birth method and the reasons for CS were recorded based on the mother's medical profile. The one-way ANOVA was used before the intervention and RMANOVA after the intervention to compare the mean scores of FOC among the three groups. Further, chi-square test was applied to compare the intended and final birth method. Results: The mean (standard deviation: SD) of FOC in the CBT group changed from 74.09 (11.35) at 24–28 weeks of gestation to 46.50 (18.28) at 35–37 weeks and 48.78 (20.64) after birth (P < 0.001). The means (SDs) of FOC in the haptonomy group were 76.81 (13.09), 46.59 (15.81), and 45.09 (20.11), respectively (P < 0.001). The mean (SD) of FOC in the control group decreased from 70.31 (6.71) to 66.56 (18.92) and then, increased to 71.00 (21.14) after birth (P = 0.878). After the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in terms of the intended birth method (P = 0.278), and final birth method (P = 0.107). Conclusion: The findings of the present study revealed that both CBT and haptonomy interventions reduce FOC. Although the desire for vaginal birth and final vaginal birth in the haptonomy group was more than that in the other two groups, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20170506033834N9. Date of registration: 02.01.2022. URL: http://en.irct.ir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth experience can be important factors for a pleasant relationship between mother and baby. This study assessed the relationship between the pregnancy and birth experience with maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) and mother-child bonding. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted among 228 pregnant women in Tabriz, Iran February 2022 to March 2023. Using cluster random sampling method, we included 228 women with gestational age 28–36 weeks and followed them up until six weeks postpartum. Data were collected in two stages using the following questionnaires: Pregnancy Experience Scale (hassles and uplifts), Maternal-Fetal Attachment Questionnaire (during the third trimester of pregnancy), Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire, and Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (six weeks postpartum). Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation test and general linear model. Results: The mean score of MFA was significantly higher among women with feelings of being uplifted during pregnancy [β (95% CI) = 1.14 (0.87 to 1.41); p < 0.001]. However, there was no statistically significant relationship between pregnancy hassles and MFA and mother-child bonding (p > 0.05). Also, there was no statistically significant relationship between childbirth experience and mother-child bonding (p > 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of this study, pregnancy uplifts have a positive role in improving MFA. Therefore, it is recommended to plan interventions to make pregnancy period a pleasant experience for mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Mothers who experience unplanned pregnancies tend to show less maternal attachment to the fetus, which can lead to diminished self-care during pregnancy, and affect well-being of the fetus. Consequently, unintended pregnancies are associated with heightened maternal and fetal consequences due to mothers’ negligence. Hippotherapy intervention has emerged as a viable approach to enhance maternal-fetal communication. The ultimate goal of this study was to broaden our current understanding of haptotherapy’s impact on maternal-fetal attachment in unplanned pregnancies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This field trial research was conducted at comprehensive health centers in Isfahan using convenient sampling method. The study consisted of two groups of mothers, each consisting of 33 individuals with unplanned pregnancies between 20 to 24 weeks. The experimental group received haptotherapy intervention for 10 weeks, while the control group received standard pregnancy care. For data collection the participants were given demographic and fertility questionnaire prior to the study, and Cranley’s maternal-fetal attachment questionnaire both before and after the study. Moreover, T-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Chi-square test were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Prior to the intervention, there was no significant difference in the average maternal-fetal attachment scores between the experimental and control groups (P = 0.56). However, a significant increase became apparent after the intervention. The experimental group exhibited a significant improvement in the mean attachment scores compared to their pre-intervention levels (t=-9.20, P = 0

Pregnancy is an important period in which mother-infant attachment begins, includes bio-psychological changes, and has physical and psychological effects on the future life of the fetus. This study aims to evaluate the prenatal attachment levels of Syrian refugee and Turkish mothers in Turkey and to determine the variables that affect these. This cross-sectional study conducted in the obstetric outpatient clinics with 397 pregnant women 197 Syrian and 200 native women. Inclusion criteria were a pregnancy of at least 20 weeks, no communication or mental disorders, no chronic diseases, no diagnosis of high-risk pregnancy, literacy in the pregnant Turkish women, Turkish language proficiency in the pregnant Syrian women, and residence in Turkey for at least three years. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic form and The Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI). The data were analyzed by conducting independent t-tests, and hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis. The mean prenatal attachment score of Turkish pregnant women (61.79 ± 8.55) was higher than Syrian women (48.38 ± 10.39) (p <.05). Education level, pre-pregnancy counseling, regular checkup, support from spouses, relatives, and friends, and being a refugee of pregnant women were determined as predictors of prenatal attachment. The results showed that 67 percent of the total variance in the prenatal attachment levels could be explained in model 2 (F = 35.524, R2 variation =.673, p =.001). The low prenatal attachment level of Syrian pregnant women was a result of the detrimental impacts of being a refugee on pregnancy. The integration of transcultural knowledge, culture-specific perspectives, and cross-cultural theories into clinical practices is essential for immigrant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread widely throughout the world, causing psychological problems such as fear, anxiety, and stress. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pregnant women have been concerned about both their own health and the health of their fetuses, and these concerns could negatively affect maternal-fetal attachment. Thus, this study aimed to explore the level of COVID-19 stress, resilience, and maternal-fetal attachment among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to identify factors influencing maternal-fetal attachment. Methods In total, 118 pregnant women past 20 weeks gestation were recruited from two maternity clinics in Daegu, Korea, to participate in this descriptive correlational study during COVID-19. The factors influencing maternal-fetal attachment were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Results The mean scores for COVID-19 stress, resilience, and maternal-fetal attachment were 57.18±10.32 out of 84, 67.32±15.09 out of 100, and 77.23±9.00 out of 96, respectively. Nulliparous pregnant women reported greater maternal-fetal attachment than multiparous pregnant women (p=.003). Religious pregnant women also reported greater maternal-fetal attachment than non-religious pregnant women (p=.039). Resilience (β=.29, p=.002), COVID-19 stress (β=.20, p=.030) and parity (β=–.17, p=.047) were factors influencing maternal-fetal attachment, and these factors explained 26.4% of the variance in maternal-fetal attachment (F=10.12, p

A sufficient vascular network within the feto-maternal interface is necessary for placental function. Several pregnancy abnormalities have been associated with abnormal vascular formations in the placenta. We hypothesized that growth and expansion of the placental vascular network in the equine (Equus caballus) placenta is regulated by estrogens (estrogen family hormones), a hormone with a high circulating concentration during equine gestation. Administration of letrozole, a potent and specific inhibitor of aromatase, during the first trimester (D30 to D118), decreased circulatory estrone sulfate concentrations, increased circulatory testosterone and androstenedione concentrations, and tended to reduce the weight of the fetus (p < 0.1). Moreover, the gene expression of CYP17A1 was increased, and the expression of androgen receptor was decreased in the D120 chorioallantois (CA) of letrozole-treated mares in comparison to that of the control mares. We also found that at D120, the number of vessels tended to decrease in the CAs with letrozole treatment (p = 0.07). In addition, expression of a subset of angiogenic genes, such as ANGPT1, VEGF, and NOS2, were altered in the CAs of letrozole-treated mares. We further demonstrated that 17β-estradiol increases the expression of ANGPT1 and VEGF and increases the angiogenic activity of equine endothelial cells in vitro. Our results from the estrogen-suppressed group demonstrated an impaired placental vascular network, suggesting an estrogen-dependent vasculogenesis in the equine CA during the first trimester.

Purpose The incidence of high-risk pregnancies is increasing in Korea as the birth age increases due to late marriage. Maternal-fetal attachment is an important factor that affects children even after childbirth, but it is difficult for high-risk pregnant women to form maternal-fetal attachment. The current study aimed to explore whether taegyo practice (i.e., pregnant women’s efforts for fetal good growth and development), self-esteem, and social support influenced the degree of maternal-fetal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancies. Methods The participants included 226 pregnant Korean women at ≥20 gestational weeks, hospitalized with 15 high-risk pregnancy conditions as defined by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Recruitment via convenience sampling was done at four sites in Busan, Korea. Surveys were distributed and collected from February 1 to 28, 2022. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, the t-test, one-factor analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression. Results On average, participants were 33.97±4.23 years of age and at 31.65±6.23 gestational weeks. Preterm labor (35.4%) and gestational diabetes (21.0%) were the most common high-risk conditions. Maternal-fetal attachment was positively correlated with taegyo practice (r=.70, p

About 10% of women of reproductive age are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Female factors alone account for at least 35% of all infertility cases and comprise a wide range of causes affecting ovarian development, maturation of oocytes, and fertilization competence, as well as the potential of a fertilized egg for preimplantation development, implantation, and fetal growth. Genetic abnormalities leading to infertility in females comprise large chromosome abnormalities, submicroscopic chromosome deletion and duplications, and DNA sequence variations in the genes that control numerous biological processes implicated in oogenesis, maintenance of ovarian reserve, hormonal signaling, and anatomical and functional development of female reproductive organs. Despite the great number of genes implicated in reproductive physiology by the study of animal models, only a subset of these genes is associated with human infertility. In this review, we mainly focus on genetic alterations identified in humans and summarize recent knowledge on the molecular pathways of oocyte development and maturation, the crucial role of maternal-effect factors during embryogenesis, and genetic conditions associated with ovarian dysgenesis, primary ovarian insufficiency, early embryonic lethality, and infertility.

Copyright of Revista Bioetica is the property of Conselho Federal de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction (1): The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth and puerperium. The objective of this study was to know the impact of visit restrictions, PCR performance and use of masks on delivery and puerperium care. Methods (2): A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. A survey was used to assess the impact of COVID-19-related measures on women who had given birth in hospitals in the Region of Murcia, Spain, between March 2020 and February 2022. Results (3): The final sample size was 434 women. The average scores were 4.27 for dimension 1 (Visit restrictions), 4.15 for dimension 2 (PCR testing) and 3.98 for dimension 3 (Mask use). More specifically, we found that the restriction of visits was considered a positive measure for the establishment of the mother–newborn bond (mean score 4.37) and that the use of masks at the time of delivery should have been made more flexible (mean score 4.7). Conclusions (4): The policy of restricting hospital visits during the pandemic caused by COVID-19 has been considered beneficial by mothers, who expressed that they did not feel lonely during their hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The incidence of high-risk pregnancies is increasing in Korea as the birth age increases due to late marriage. Maternal-fetal attachment is an important factor that affects children even after childbirth, but it is difficult for high-risk pregnant women to form maternal-fetal attachment. The current study aimed to explore whether taegyo practice (i.e., pregnant women's efforts for fetal good growth and development), self-esteem, and social support influenced the degree of maternal-fetal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancies. Methods: The participants included 226 pregnant Korean women at ≥20 gestational weeks, hospitalized with 15 high-risk pregnancy conditions as defined by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Recruitment via convenience sampling was done at four sites in Busan, Korea. Surveys were distributed and collected from February 1 to 28, 2022. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, the t-test, one-factor analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: On average, participants were 33.97±4.23 years of age and at 31.65±6.23 gestational weeks. Preterm labor (35.4%) and gestational diabetes (21.0%) were the most common high-risk conditions. Maternal-fetal attachment was positively correlated with taegyo practice (r=.70, p<.001), self-esteem (r=.53, p<.001), and social support (r=.53, p<.001), all with statistical significance. Taegyo practice (β=.50, p<.001) and social support (β=.17, p=.030) explained 53% of variance in maternal- fetal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancies. Conclusion: Nurses caring for women with high-risk pregnancies during hospitalization can use these findings by promoting taegyo practice and enhancing social support to increase maternal-fetal attachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:In this study, we investigated the maternal severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection’s effect on newborn hearing loss.Methods:Thirty-nine newborns whose mother’s SARS-CoV-2 real time-polymerase chain reaction test was positive at the time of parturition were included in this study. Another 39 newborns who were born from healthy pregnancies were selected as the control group. Neonates with risk factors for hearing loss determined by the American Academy of Pediatrics Joint Committee on Infant Hearing 2007 and those with ear pathology were excluded. The newborn hearing screening was done with auditory brainstem response (ABR) test. Second ABR test (ABR-2) was performed on newborns who failed the 1st test (ABR-1). The third ABR test (ABR-3) was performed on newborns who failed the second ABR test (ABR-2). The screening results were analyzed statistically.Results:In the control group, a total of 6 (15.4%) newborns failed ABR-1, five newborns in one ear (3 right, 2 left), and one newborn in both ears. In the study group, a total of 14 (35.9%) newborns failed ABR-1, 11 newborns from both ears and 3 (2 right, 1 left) newborns from one ear. ABR-1 results were significantly worse in the study group’s neonates (p=0.038). In addition, the rate of involvement of both ears was higher in the study group (p=0.018; p0.05). All babies passed the ABR-3.Conclusion:There was a significant relationship between neonatal hearing loss and maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. This hearing loss is usually bilateral and temporary.

Introduction: Thyroid dysfunction is one of the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age group including pregnancy. There are a few reports of prevalence of hypothyroidism during pregnancy from India with prevalence rate ranging from 4.8% to 11%, Subclinical Hypothyroidism is as high as 13.5 % women. Aim & Objective: To study the incidence of sub clinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy and its outcome both in fetus and mother. Material & Method: This prospective study with 50 patients has been conducted from October 2019 to September 2021, in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at VIMSAR Burla after getting clearance from the institutional ethical committee. Observation: The Incidence of subclinical hypothyroidism was found to be 0.58%. The Common association with maternal complications were preeclampsia (4%), preterm labour (22%), and anti partum haemorrhage (2%).The most common association with neonatal complication observed were low birth weight, intra uterine growth retardation, poor APGAR score, RDS and perinatal deaths. Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism requires special consideration because pregnancy induces major changes in thyroid function and maternal thyroid disease can have adverse effect on pregnancy and fetus. Replacement therapy with L-thyroxin is the treatment of choice in hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crosstalk between maternal stress exposure and fetal development may be mediated by epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation (DNAm). To address this matter, we collect 32 cord blood samples from low-income Brazilian pregnant adolescents participants of a pilot randomized clinical intervention study (ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT02807818). We hypothesized that the association between the intervention and infant neurodevelopmental outcomes at 12 months of age would be mediated by DNAm. First, we searched genome methylation differences between cases and controls using different approaches, as well as differences in age acceleration (AA), represented by the difference of methylation age and birth age. According to an adjusted p-value ≤ 0.05 we identified 3090 differentially methylated positions- CpG sites (DMPs), 21 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and one comethylated module weakly preserved between groups. The intervention group presented a smaller AA compared to the control group (p = 0.025). A logistic regression controlled by sex and with gestational age indicated a coefficient of −0.35 towards intervention group (p = 0.016) considering AA. A higher cognitive domain score from Bayley III scale was observed in the intervention group at 12 months of age. Then, we performed a potential causal mediation analysis selecting only DMPs highly associated with the cognitive domain (adj. R2 > 0.4), DMRs and CpGs of hub genes from the weakly preserved comethylated module and epigenetic clock as raw values. DMPs in STXBP6, and PF4 DMR, mediated the association between the maternal intervention and the cognitive domain at 12 months of age. In conclusion, DNAm in different sites and regions mediated the association between intervention and cognitive outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Preeclampsia/eclampsia (PE/E) contributes significantly to maternal, perinatal morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to ascertain the prevalence, materno-fetal outcomes and sociodemographic factors associated with PE/E at Nigerian Teaching Hospital from September 2014 to August 2019. Methods This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that analyzed deidentified secondary data of women managed for PE/E at a teaching hospital in north-central, Nigeria. Descriptive statistics were used to determine sample characteristics and study outcome estimates. Bivariate analysis was used to test for associations between sociodemographic factors and PE/E, materno-fetal outcomes while logistic regression analysis was used to test for the magnitude of these associations. The significance level was set at P

Abstract The Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale has been widely applied in research on the subject. There are no known studies that have validated a shortened version of this instrument in Brazil. This study aimed to propose a shortened version of the Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale and examine its evidence of validity and reliability. This methodological study was carried out on a sample of 937 pregnant women in the Primary Health Care of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais - Brazil. Construct validity and reliability were measured. A trifactor version with 15 items was obtained, which presented satisfactory adjustment indexes. Convergent and discriminant validities were close to the recommended ones. The scale differentiated attachment scores according to different sample characteristics. Internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.878) and composite reliability (> 0.70) were appropriate. The abbreviated Brazilian version of the Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale presented satisfactory psychometric attributes for application to pregnant women in Primary Health Care.

Maternal care is a critical determinant of child development. However, our understanding of processes and mechanisms by which maternal behavior influences the developing human brain remains limited. Animal research has illustrated that patterns of sensory information is important in shaping neural circuits during development. Here we examined the relation between degree of predictability of maternal sensory signals early in life and subsequent cognitive function in both humans (n = 128 mother/infant dyads) and rats (n = 12 dams; 28 adolescents). Behaviors of mothers interacting with their offspring were observed in both species, and an entropy rate was calculated as a quantitative measure of degree of predictability of transitions among maternal sensory signals (visual, auditory, and tactile). Human cognitive function was assessed at age 2 y with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development and at age 6.5 y with a hippocampus-dependent delayed-recall task. Rat hippocampus-dependent spatial memory was evaluated on postnatal days 49-60. Early life exposure to unpredictable sensory signals portended poor cognitive performance in both species. The present study provides evidence that predictability of maternal sensory signals early in life impacts cognitive function in both rats and humans. The parallel between experimental animal and observational human data lends support to the argument that predictability of maternal sensory signals causally influences cognitive development.

This study included 168 and 85 mother-infant dyads from Asian and United States of America cohorts to examine whether a genomic profile risk score for major depressive disorder (GPRSMDD) moderates the association between antenatal maternal depressive symptoms (or socio-economic status, SES) and fetal neurodevelopment, and to identify candidate biological processes underlying such association. Both cohorts showed a significant interaction between antenatal maternal depressive symptoms and infant GPRSMDD on the right amygdala volume. The Asian cohort also showed such interaction on the right hippocampal volume and shape, thickness of the orbitofrontal and ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Likewise, a significant interaction between SES and infant GPRSMDD was on the right amygdala and hippocampal volumes and shapes. After controlling for each other, the interaction effect of antenatal maternal depressive symptoms and GPRSMDD was mainly shown on the right amygdala, while the interaction effect of SES and GPRSMDD was mainly shown on the right hippocampus. Bioinformatic analyses suggested neurotransmitter/neurotrophic signaling, SNAp REceptor complex, and glutamate receptor activity as common biological processes underlying the influence of antenatal maternal depressive symptoms on fetal cortico-limbic development. These findings suggest gene-environment interdependence in the fetal development of brain regions implicated in cognitive-emotional function. Candidate biological mechanisms involve a range of brain region-specific signaling pathways that converge on common processes of synaptic development.

IntroductionCommunity health workers (CHWs) are lay workers who have the potential to enhance services to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) and improve the health of women living with HIV infection. We conducted a cluster-randomized trial of an intervention to integrate CHWs with 'Option B+' PMTCT services in Shinyanga Region, Tanzania.MethodsThe intervention was implemented for 11 months and included four integrated components: 1) formal linkage of CHWs to health facilities; 2) CHW-led antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence counseling; 3) loss to follow-up tracing by CHWs; and 4) distribution of Action Birth Cards (ABCs), a birth planning tool. We cluster-randomized 32 facilities offering PMTCT services, within strata of size, to the intervention (n = 15) or comparison (standard of care, n = 17) groups. Intervention effectiveness was determined with a difference-in-differences strategy based on clinical and pharmacy data from HIV-infected postpartum women at baseline (births in 2014) and endline (births April-Oct 2015). The primary outcome was retention in care between 60 and 120 days postpartum. Secondary outcomes included ART initiation, timing of ART initiation (as measured by week of gestation), and ART adherence 90 days postpartum, measured using the medication possession ratio (MPR≥95%).ResultsIntervention and comparison facilities were similar at baseline. Data were collected from 1,152 and 678 mother-infant pairs at baseline and endline, respectively. There were no significant differences in retention in care, ART initiation, or timing of ART initiation between the intervention and control groups. Adherence (MPR≥95%) at 90 days postpartum was 11.3 percentage points higher in the intervention group in ITT analyses (95% CI: -0.7, 23.3, p = 0.06), though this effect was attenuated after adjusting for baseline imbalance (9.5 percentage points, 95% CI: -2.9, 22.0, p = 0.13). Among only sites that had the greatest fidelity to the intervention, however, we found a stronger effect on adherence (13.6 percentage points, 95% CI: 2.5, 24.6).ConclusionsDespite being feasible and acceptable, the CHW-based intervention did not have strong effects on most PMTCT indicators. CHW involvement in PMTCT programs may improve ART adherence among HIV-infected postpartum women, however, and success appears heavily dependent on program implementation.Trial registrationRegistry for International Development Impact Evaluations (RIDIE, ID 552553838b402) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03058484).

Introduction: In this study, we investigated the maternal severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection's effect on newborn hearing loss. Methods: Thirty-nine newborns whose mother's SARS-CoV-2 real time-polymerase chain reaction test was positive at the time of parturition were included in this study. Another 39 newborns who were born from healthy pregnancies were selected as the control group. Neonates with risk factors for hearing loss determined by the American Academy of Pediatrics Joint Committee on Infant Hearing 2007 and those with ear pathology were excluded. The newborn hearing screening was done with auditory brainstem response (ABR) test. Second ABR test (ABR-2) was performed on newborns who failed the 1st test (ABR-1). The third ABR test (ABR-3) was performed on newborns who failed the second ABR test (ABR-2). The screening results were analyzed statistically. Results: In the control group, a total of 6 (15.4%) newborns failed ABR-1, five newborns in one ear (3 right, 2 left), and one newborn in both ears. In the study group, a total of 14 (35.9%) newborns failed ABR-1, 11 newborns from both ears and 3 (2 right, 1 left) newborns from one ear. ABR-1 results were significantly worse in the study group's neonates (p=0.038). In addition, the rate of involvement of both ears was higher in the study group (p=0.018; p<0.05). 1 (16.7%) newborn in the control group and 2 (14.3%) newborns in the study group failed the ABR-2 in both ears. There was no statistically significant difference according to the ABR-2 test (p=0.681; p>0.05). All babies passed the ABR-3. Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between neonatal hearing loss and maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. This hearing loss is usually bilateral and temporary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several factors may influence newborn thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations and cause subclinical hypothyroidism in a newborn. A sufficient level of leptin signalling is needed for the normal production of TSH and thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Our study aimed to investigate the correlation between maternal serum leptin concentration during the third trimester of pregnancy and newborn screening-TSH levels. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in obstetrics and gynaecology clinics of a state hospital between June and August 2013. Maternal venous blood samples were collected from 270 healthy pregnant women in the third trimester just before delivery. Measurements of maternal fT3, fT4, TSH, anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO), and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) antibodies from serum samples were performed by chemiluminescence immunoassay. Maternal serum leptin levels were determined by ELISA. Dried capillary blood spots were used to measure newborn TSH levels. Results: Subjects were divided into two groups according to the neonatal TSH levels using a cut-point of 5.5 mIU/L. Median maternal serum leptin levels were significantly higher in newborns whose TSH levels were higher than >5.5 mIU/L [13.2 pg/L (1.3-46.5) vs 19.7 pg/L (2.448.5), p<0.05]. Serum leptin levels showed a negative correlation with maternal fT4 (r=0.32, p<0.05), fT3 (r=0.23, p<0.05), and a positive correlation with BMI (r=0.30, p<0.05). Conclusions: Our results suggest that high leptin levels in the third trimester of pregnancy influence maternal thyroid functions and might cause an increase in newborn TSH levels. Detection of high maternal serum leptin levels may be a reason for subclinical hypothyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of self-differentiation, psychological discomfort, and marital dyadic adjustment on maternal-fetal attachment in primigravida. Methods In total, 108 primigravida participated in this descriptive correlational study. The participants answered self-report questionnaires. Data were collected from January to May, 2020, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the t-test, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression with SPSS for Windows ver. 23.0. Results The mean age of the primigravida was 31.66 years. The mean score for the degree of maternal-fetal attachment was 76.81 out of 96 points. Participants’ scores for maternal-fetal attachment differed significantly based on age (t=2.08 p=.039) and marital status (t=2.05, p=.043). Maternal-fetal attachment was significantly negatively correlated with psychological discomfort (r=–.39, p

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High-risk pregnancy increases the morbidity and mortality of the mother and the fetus. Pregnant women under high risks suffer anxiety and stress related to many reasons such as health problems concerning her and the baby, uncertainty, hospitalization and leaving the family. As the pregnancy will be at risk in a high-risk condition, the mother may be anxious in contacting the fetus and the connection can be effected negatively. In pregnancy, high anxiety and weak prenatal attachment, affects the pregnant and fetus’ health negatively. It has been reported that some practices such as social support, listening or singing music/lullaby, yoga and meditation both reduce anxiety and increase prenatal attachment during pregnancy. In the prenatal period, the nurse has many roles such as educator, role model, consultant and resource person in order to cope with the risky conditions of the pregnant woman, to connect with the fetus in a healthy way and to protect her mental health. Nurses have to determine and follow the anxiety and attachment levels of the pregnant, to benefit from evidence based practices to reduce anxiety and increase prenatal attachment by considering the possible harms of anxiety and insufficient maternal attachment on the pregnant and the fetus.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of a supportive program on uncertainty, anxiety, and maternal-fetal attachment in high-risk pregnant women. Methods The participants were 59 high-risk pregnant women admitted to the maternal-fetal intensive care unit. The control group (n=30) received usual treatment and antenatal care, while the experimental group (n=29) received an additional supportive program. Uncertainty, anxiety, and maternal-fetal attachment were measured in both groups prior to the intervention and at 3 days and 10 days after the intervention (or at discharge). Data were analyzed with the t-test, chi-square test, repeated-measures analysis of covariance, and the Greenhouse-Geisser correction in SPSS version 23.0. Results A supportive program including information provision, nutritional care, emotional care, and exercise care was developed from the literature. All variables except women’s length of stay were found to be homogeneous the between experimental and control groups in the pre-test. Length of stay was calculated as a covariate for testing hypotheses. There was a significant difference in state anxiety over time between the two groups, while there were no differences in uncertainty or maternal-fetal attachment. Conclusion This supportive program was identified as an effective nursing intervention on state anxiety in high-risk pregnant women during their stay in the maternal-fetal intensive care unit. It is suggested that nurses could apply this program to alleviate high-risk pregnant women’s state anxiety, and that this program could be modified to be more effective on uncertainty and maternal-fetal attachment in high-risk pregnant women.

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify if participation in educational workshops about bonding with the fetus influences the adoption of practices of interaction with the baby by pregnant women. Method: Randomized clinical trial conducted in a health clinic. The experimental group participated in educational workshops designed for the pregnant couple and the control group received usual care. The practices of interaction with the fetus were evaluated before and after the intervention. Results: 19 pregnant women participated in the study. There was a positive correlation between higher gestational age and the interaction with the fetus (p = 0.016), and between younger mothers and the practice of touching or poking the baby (p = 0.019). There was an increase in the interaction with the fetus in the control and experimental groups (p= 0.024). Conclusion: Educational workshops are strategies for sharing knowledge about fetuses' sensory skills and to foster bonding and child development since pregnancy.

Background: Mothers who experience unplanned pregnancies tend to show less maternal attachment to the fetus, which can lead to diminished self-care during pregnancy, and affect well-being of the fetus. Consequently, unintended pregnancies are associated with heightened maternal and fetal consequences due to mothers' negligence. Hippotherapy intervention has emerged as a viable approach to enhance maternal-fetal communication. The ultimate goal of this study was to broaden our current understanding of haptotherapy's impact on maternal-fetal attachment in unplanned pregnancies., Materials and Methods: This field trial research was conducted at comprehensive health centers in Isfahan using convenient sampling method. The study consisted of two groups of mothers, each consisting of 33 individuals with unplanned pregnancies between 20 to 24 weeks. The experimental group received haptotherapy intervention for 10 weeks, while the control group received standard pregnancy care. For data collection the participants were given demographic and fertility questionnaire prior to the study, and Cranley's maternal-fetal attachment questionnaire both before and after the study. Moreover, T-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Chi-square test were used for data analysis., Results: Prior to the intervention, there was no significant difference in the average maternal-fetal attachment scores between the experimental and control groups ( P = 0.56). However, a significant increase became apparent after the intervention. The experimental group exhibited a significant improvement in the mean attachment scores compared to their pre-intervention levels (t=-9.20, P = 0<0.001). In contrast, the control group's score remained unchanged, with no significant difference observed (=1.69, P = 0.1)., Conclusion: Haptotherapy has been found to enhance maternal-fetal attachment in mothers experiencing unplanned pregnancies. This valuable intervention is recommended as an innovative and secure approach in maternal health care services to help reduce the potential complications associated with such pregnancies., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2024 Journal of Education and Health Promotion.)

Objectives: to develop and evaluate a Middle-Range Theory for the nursing diagnosis "Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk" in high-risk pregnancies., Methods: this methodological study was conducted in two stages: theory development and evaluation. Dorothea Orem's General Nursing Model was used as the theoretical-conceptual foundation. Evaluation was conducted using the Delphi method with seven judges, and consensus was achieved when the Content Validity Index of the evaluated items was ≥ 0.80., Results: the theory identified 20 elements of the nursing diagnosis "Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk" (10 risk factors, 4 at-risk populations, and 6 associated conditions), 14 propositions, and 1 pictogram. After two rounds of evaluation, the theory was considered consistent, with consensus reached for all items, each achieving a Content Validity Index ≥ 0.80., Conclusions: the Middle-Range Theory included biopsychosocial factors explaining the nursing phenomenon "Disrupted Mother-Fetus Dyad Risk," which aids in nurses' diagnostic reasoning.

Purpose: To obtain evidence of the clinical validity of the nursing diagnosis (ND) risk for disturbed maternal-fetal dyad in high-risk pregnancy., Method: Causal validation of the ND through a case-control study performed in a university hospital with 155 high-risk pregnant women: 31 cases and 124 controls. A causal association was found between the ND etiological factors and the occurrence of disruption of the symbiotic maternal-fetal dyad; an association was verified when the etiological factor presented a p-value <0.05 and odds ratio >1., Findings: The risk factor absent-inadequate prenatal care; populations at risk, such as young-advanced maternal age and economically disadvantaged pregnant women; and association conditions, such as maternal conditions and compromised fetal oxygen transport, increased the outcome likelihood. The associated condition maternal illnesses appeared as a protective factor., Conclusions: Evidence of clinical validity of the ND risk for disturbed maternal-fetal dyad was obtained, and an association between etiological factors and disruption of the symbiotic maternal-fetal dyad was found., Implications for Nursing Practice: The results contribute to advance scientific knowledge in nursing teaching, research, and practice and support the nursing process in high-risk pregnancies., (© 2023 NANDA International, Inc.)

Maternal obesity before or during pregnancy has been associated previously in offspring with a wide range of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes and mental health problems. The effects of maternal obesity on offspring brain structure and function that may be responsible for these poor outcomes are not well understood. We, therefore, undertook a systematic review of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies that have assessed the associations of maternal obesity with brain measures in offspring. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO on August 20, 2023. Of 15 eligible studies, seven employed functional MRI (fMRI), five diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and four anatomical MRI (one used both DTI and anatomical MRI) in the offspring. The ages of offspring varied widely: one was a study of fetuses in utero, five of neonates, one of infants, five of school-aged children, two of both neonates and infants, and one of both children and adults. Collectively, 12 studies reported significant associations of maternal obesity with structural or functional alterations of the offspring's brain, most frequently in the prefrontal cortex and limbic system. In conclusion, maternal obesity appears to have a profound influence on offspring brain development, particularly within the prefrontal and limbic networks that regulate emotion and behavior. Further studies are needed to identify how changes in brain structure and function mediate the effects of maternal obesity on long-term emotional and behavioral outcomes, as well as the molecular pathways through which maternal obesity alters offspring brain development., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Neuroscience Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

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Purpose This study was conducted to examine the relationships among the perceptions and practice of taegyo (a traditional set of practices and beliefs related to healthy fetal development) and maternal-fetal attachment in pregnant women. Methods The participants were 136 pregnant women who visited a public health center or maternity hospital for prenatal care. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the t-test, analysis of varience, and Pearson correlation coefficients with SPSS version 22.0. Results The mean age of the pregnant women was 32.24±3.99 years. The mean scores for perceptions of taegyo, practice of taegyo, and maternal-fetal attachment were 3.96±0.53, 3.74±0.64, and 3.94±0.49, respectively. Perceptions of taegyo were significantly correlated with the practice of taegyo (r=.72, p

N/a.

Objectives: To describe the ontogeny of the immune system and the adaptive mechanisms of the immune system in the neonatal period, with an emphasis on transplacental antibody transport and breastfeeding. Source of data: Non-systematic literature review in the PubMed database. Summary of the findings: The last two decades have witnessed a great advance in the knowledge of the immune system since conception. Several investigation tools have provided insight on phenomena that were previously inadequately understood. Still expanding, the functional and molecular investigation of various aspects of the immune system will make it possible to understand how intra-uterus maternal-fetal exchanges, the maternal microbiota interacting with the fetus and newborn, and the acquisition of immunological competence occur in healthy and disease scenarios. Conclusions: In-depth knowledge of the development of the immune system and of the adaptive mechanisms that allow a safer transition to the extrauterine environment are fundamental components of optimizing maternal and young infant vaccination, as well as the strategies associated with full postnatal development, and the early diagnosis and treatment of innate errors of immunity.

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Objectives: To describe the ontogeny of the immune system and the adaptive mechanisms of the immune system in the neonatal period, with an emphasis on transplacental antibody transport and breastfeeding. Source of data: Non-systematic literature review in the PubMed database. Summary of the findings: The last two decades have witnessed a great advance in the knowledge of the immune system since conception. Several investigation tools have provided insight on phenomena that were previously inadequately understood. Still expanding, the functional and molecular investigation of various aspects of the immune system will make it possible to understand how intra-uterus maternal-fetal exchanges, the maternal microbiota interacting with the fetus and newborn, and the acquisition of immunological competence occur in healthy and disease scenarios. Conclusions: In-depth knowledge of the development of the immune system and of the adaptive mechanisms that allow a safer transition to the extrauterine environment are fundamental components of optimizing maternal and young infant vaccination, as well as the strategies associated with full postnatal development, and the early diagnosis and treatment of innate errors of immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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