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Objective Methods Results Conclusion To compare perinatal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies following second‐trimester abortions, stratified by the method of abortion.A historic cohort study was conducted in a single tertiary hospital, including women who had second‐trimester abortions between 12+0 and 24+0 weeks and subsequent documented pregnancies within 3–60 months. Data were collected from hospitalization and perinatal databases. Composite outcome variables were constructed, and multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze associations, adjusting for confounders.Among 771 women meeting the inclusion criteria, 83% had surgical abortions and 17% had medical abortions. Medical abortion was associated with a higher incidence of placenta‐associated pregnancy complications compared with surgical abortion. No significant differences were found in other perinatal outcomes.The study highlights the potential influence of the abortion method on subsequent pregnancy outcomes, particularly regarding placenta‐associated complications. This underscores the importance of considering the method of second‐trimester abortion in counseling women regarding potential risks to subsequent pregnancies. Adverse outcomes in subsequent pregnancies following second‐trimester abortion were associated with the medical method of abortion, warranting further research and careful counseling in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the intake of artificial sweetener (AS) and adverse pregnancy outcomes is under-researched, and existing studies yield inconsistent conclusions. A Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was employed to investigate the causal relationship between the intake of AS and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Instrumental variables related to the exposure phenotype were selected for analysis. The analysis was conducted using genome-wide association study summary data from public datasets. The inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode methods were used to evaluate the causal relationship between exposure and outcomes. Sensitivity analysis and multivariable Mendelian randomization enrolling body mass index, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and fasting glucose were employed to further validate the consistency and robustness of the results. In univariable MR, the intake of AS added to tea was associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy [OR = 1.821 (1.118–2.967), p = 0.016]. In multivariable MR adjusting for body mass index and type 2 diabetes mellitus, the intake of AS added to cereal was linked to a reduced risk of ectopic pregnancy [OR = 0.361 (0.145–0.895), p = 0.028] and premature rupture of membranes [OR = 0.116 (0.019–0.704), p = 0.019], while the intake of artificial sweetener added to coffee was associated with an increased risk of placenta previa [OR = 1.617 (1.042–2.510), p = 0.032]. No causal relationship was identified between the intake of artificial sweetener and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. The consumption of artificial sweetener during pregnancy warrants careful consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine racial/ethnic disparities in severe maternal morbidity (SMM) and adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) among pregnant patients with substance use disorder (SUD) compared to individuals without SUD. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of inpatient hospitalizations of pregnant people from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 to 2019. ICD-10 codes were used to identify the frequency of SMM and/or APO between those with and without SUD by race/ethnicity. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the effect of race/ethnicity as an independent predictor and as an effect modifier of SMM and APO in patients with SUD. Results: From 2,508,259 hospitalizations, SUD was identified in 6.7% admissions with the highest rate in White patients (8.2%) followed by Black (7.7%) and Hispanic (2.2%) patients. Rate of SMM and APO were increased in patients with SUD in all racial/ethnic groups compared to those without SUD, increasing by 1% and 10%, respectively. Among all patients, Black race was an independent predictor of SMM (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.05–2.13) and APO (aOR 1.58; 95% CI: 1.56–1.59). Hispanic ethnicity was also an independent risk factor for predicting SMM (aOR 1.40; 95% CI: 1.37–1.43). Among Hispanic patients, SUD was associated with an ∼90% increased likelihood of SMM and APO. Conclusion: Although higher rates of SMM and APO are seen among hospitalizations of pregnant people with SUD, racial/ethnic disparities also exist among this population. This warrants further attention and presents an opportunity for intervention and for addressing the root causes of racial and ethnic disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been extensively used across numerous industries and consumer goods. Due to their high persistence and mobility, they are ubiquitous in the environment. Exposure to PFAS occurs in people via multiple pathways such as dermal contact, water supply, air inhalation, and dietary intake. Even if some PFAS are being phased out because of their persistent presence in the environment and harmful impacts on human health, mixes of replacement and legacy PFAS will continue to pollute the ecosystem. Numerous toxicological investigations have revealed harmful effects of PFAS exposure on female reproductive health, e.g., polycystic ovaries syndrome, premature ovarian failure, endometriosis, reproductive system tumors, pregnancy complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite extensive epidemiological studies on the reproductive toxicity of PFAS, research findings remain inconsistent, and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In this review, we give an in-depth description of the sources and pathways of PFAS, and then review the reproductive toxicity of PFAS and its possible mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: An increased nuchal translucency (NT) thickness of ≥ 3.5 mm is a well‐established marker for congenital anomalies and adverse pregnancy outcome between 11 and 14 weeks' gestation, but little is known about its performance as a screening tool before 11 weeks. We aimed to investigate, in a prospective setting, whether fetuses with increased NT before 11 weeks are at risk for adverse pregnancy outcome. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study including pregnant women with a viable fetus with NT ≥ 2.5 mm and a crown–rump length (CRL) < 45 mm. All included women were referred to our fetal medicine unit (FMU) and scheduled for a follow‐up scan where the NT was remeasured after 1 week when the CRL was > 45 mm. Two groups were evaluated: cases with a normalized NT (< 3.5 mm) and cases with persistently increased NT (≥ 3.5 mm). The cases were monitored until 4 weeks after delivery. The main outcome was a composite adverse outcome of aneuploidy, other genetic disorders, structural anomalies and pregnancy loss. We performed subgroup analyses of NT thickness at inclusion and normalized or persistently increased NT at follow‐up. Results: The study included 109 cases, of which 39 (35.8%) had an adverse pregnancy outcome. Of these, 64.1% (25/39) were aneuploid, corresponding to 22.9% (25/109) of the total study population. In the subgroups of NT thickness at inclusion of 2.5–3.4 mm, 3.5–4.4 mm and ≥ 4.5 mm, an adverse outcome was reported in 22.0% (9/41), 40.0% (18/45) and 52.2% (12/23), respectively. In fetuses with a normalized NT and without ultrasound abnormalities at the follow‐up scan, the incidence of adverse outcome was 8.5% (5/59), of which 5.1% (3/59) cases were aneuploid. Conclusions: Fetuses with an early increased NT thickness are at considerable risk of an adverse pregnancy outcome, even if the NT normalizes after 11 weeks. Not all congenital anomalies can be diagnosed with routine first‐trimester screening, such as non‐invasive prenatal testing and/or a first‐trimester anomaly scan. Therefore, expectant parents should always be referred to a FMU for detailed ultrasonography. Invasive prenatal testing should be offered if an increased NT of ≥ 2.5 mm is observed before 11 weeks' gestation. © 2024 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. This article's abstract has been translated into Spanish and Chinese. Follow the links from the abstract to view the translations. Linked article: There is a comment on this article by Jiang and Li. Click here to view the Correspondence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Women with cardiometabolic pregnancy complications are at increased risk of future diabetes and heart disease which can be reduced through lifestyle management postpartum. Objectives: This study aimed to explore preferred intervention characteristics and behaviour change needs of women with or without prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications for engaging in postpartum lifestyle interventions. Design: Quantitative cross-sectional study. Methods: Online survey. Results: Overall, 473 women were included, 207 (gestational diabetes (n = 105), gestational hypertension (n = 39), preeclampsia (n = 35), preterm birth (n = 65) and small for gestational age (n = 23)) with and 266 without prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications. Women with and without complications had similar intervention preferences, with delivery ideally by a healthcare professional with expertise in women's health, occurring during maternal child health nurse visits or online, commencing 7 weeks to 3 months post birth, with 15- to 30-min monthly sessions, lasting 1 year and including monitoring of progress and social support. Women with prior complications preferred intervention content on women's health, mental health, exercise, mother's diet and their children's health and needed to know more about how to change behaviour, have more time to do it and feel they want to do it enough to participate. There were significant differences between groups, with more women with prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications wanting content on women's health (87.9% vs 80.8%, p = 0.037), mother's diet (72.5% vs 60.5%, p = 0.007), preventing diabetes or heart disease (43.5% vs 27.4%, p < 0.001) and exercise after birth (78.3% vs 68.0%, p = 0.014), having someone to monitor their progress (69.6% vs 58.6%, p = 0.014), needing the necessary materials (47.3% vs 37.6%, p = 0.033), triggers to prompt them (44.0% vs 31.6%, p = 0.006) and feeling they want to do it enough (73.4%, 63.2%, p = 0.018). Conclusion: These unique preferences should be considered in future postpartum lifestyle interventions to enhance engagement, improve health and reduce risk of future cardiometabolic disease in these high-risk women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to evaluate the magnitude of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) risks associated with different antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) profiles in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Multiple databases were investigated to identify articles that explored the relationship between aPLs and APOs in SLE patients. A random effects model was used for calculating pooled odds ratios (OR). Stata version 15.0 was utilized to conduct the meta-analysis. There were 5234 patients involved in 30 studies. Overall aPL was linked to an increased incidence of any kind of APOs, fetal loss, and preterm birth. Any kind of APOs and preterm delivery were more common in patients with lupus anticoagulant (LA) positive. Anticardiolipin antibody (aCL) was associated with an increased risk of any kind of APOs and fetal loss. The association between aCL-IgM and fetal loss was also significant. Patients with anti-beta2-glycoprotein1 antibody (antiβ2GP1) positivity had an increased risk of fetal loss. Both LA and aCL were risk factors of APOs in patients with SLE. Not only ACL, particularly aCL-IgM, but antiβ2GP1 were associated with an increased risk of fetal loss, while LA appeared to indicate the risk of preterm birth. PROSPERO (CRD42023388122). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective·To find out the risk factors leading to adverse pregnancy outcome by analyzing the correlation of clinical data and adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with pregnancy complicated with chronic kidney disease.Methods·The clinical data before 20 weeks of gestation of single pregnant patients discharged with a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease who conducted standardized prenatal examination and delivered in Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2021 were collected retrospectively. According to the pregnancy outcomes, patients were divided into adverse pregnancy outcome group (study group) and good pregnancy outcome group (control group). The clinical data, laboratory test results and pregnancy outcomes of the two groups of pregnant women were compared, and the risk factors leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes were analyzed.Results·Maternal clinical data of 359 pregnant patients were collected, 6 cases of twin pregnancy were excluded, and the remaining 353 cases of pregnancy with chronic kidney disease were included in this study. Among them, 230 cases of pregnancy without related maternal and fetal complications were included in the good pregnancy outcome group (control group), and 123 cases of pregnancy with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were included in the adverse pregnancy outcome group (study group). The adverse pregnancy outcome group (one pregnancy can have multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes) includes 69 cases of preeclampsia (including 43 cases of severe preeclampsia), 29 cases of acute kidney injury, 69 cases of premature delivery, 34 cases of infants smaller than gestational age, 46 cases of low birth weight infants, 41 cases of neonatal admission to NICU, and 7 cases of miscarriage after 20 weeks of gestation or neonatal death. There were no differences in age, body mass index, pregnancy times and birth times between the study group and control group. In patients with chronic kidney disease, those who had chronic hypertension (OR=3.385, 95% CI 1.115—10.726, P=0.031), serum creatinine over 60 μmol/L (OR=2.828, 95% CI 1.439—5.557, P=0.003), 24-hour urine protein≥0.3 g (OR=2.234, 95% CI 1.122—4.448, P=0.022), and lupus nephritis before 20 weeks of gestation (OR=4.917, 95% CI=1.967—12.290, P=0.001) were at significantly higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The area under the ROC curve was 0.759, the sensitivity was 52.8%, and the specificity was 84.2% for predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with chronic kidney disease.Conclusion·Chronic hypertension, 24-hour urine protein≥0.3 g, nephritis type of lupus nephritis and serum creatinine≥ 60 μmol/L before 20 weeks of gestation are independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcome in CKD patients. The combination of the above four indicators have a good predictive value for adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose: To establish a reliable nomogram model to predict the risk of major adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with adenomyosis, and to provide a reference tool for the hierarchical management and the prenatal examination of pregnant women. Methods: We collected the clinical data of pregnant women with adenomyosis who were treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, the Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, and Yubei District People's Hospital of Chongqing from January 2014 to June 2020. They were divided into the training cohort and the validation cohort, respectively. In the training cohort, we screened out risk factors associated with major adverse pregnancy outcomes and established a model, which was subsequently validated. Results: In the training cohort, we found that previous parity, natural conception or not, type of adenomyosis, with or without endometriosis, history of infertility or adverse pregnancy outcomes, and history of uterine body surgery were associated with major adverse pregnancy outcomes of pregnant women with adenomyosis, and based on these factors, a nomogram model was constructed. The calibration curves of the model were well fitted in both the training and validation cohorts. The receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.873 and 0.851 in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The optimal risk threshold of the model was 0.22, and this threshold can be applied to risk stratification of pregnant women. Conclusion: The nomogram model established in this study can reliably predict the risk of major APO in pregnant women with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many products contain silver nanoparticles, which are adsorbed by living organisms and then go through biological barriers. In particular, penetration of silver nanoparticles through the placental barrier is likely to damage the offspring. Here, we review hazards of silver nanoparticles with focus on exposure during pregnancy, toxicokinetics at maternal and fetal layers, ex vivo and in vivo placenta transfer models, and factors affecting the transfer. Exposure occurs by oral uptake, inhalation, dermal contact, and systemic administration. Toxicokinetics include absorption, distribution in tissues, metabolism and excretion. The accumulation efficiency is primarily influenced by the mode of exposure. Injection exhibits the highest bioavailability, followed by inhalation and oral uptake. Particles within the range of tens of nanometers are capable of crossing the placenta, according to an ex vivo placental perfusion model. In contrast, larger particles in the range of hundreds of nanometers are expelled outside. Due to the size restriction of the trophoblast channel, which typically ranges from 15 to 25 nm, it is possible for silver nanoparticles with an average size of around 20 nm to passively enter the placenta through the pericellular pathway, such as diffusion. On the other hand, larger silver nanoparticles may be delivered to the placenta through endocytosis, which can occur via phagocytosis, receptor-mediated or independent mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective·To find out the risk factors leading to adverse pregnancy outcome by analyzing the correlation of clinical data and adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with pregnancy complicated with chronic kidney disease. Methods·The clinical data before 20 weeks of gestation of single pregnant patients discharged with a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease who conducted standardized prenatal examination and delivered in Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2021 were collected retrospectively. According to the pregnancy outcomes, patients were divided into adverse pregnancy outcome group (study group) and good pregnancy outcome group (control group). The clinical data, laboratory test results and pregnancy outcomes of the two groups of pregnant women were compared, and the risk factors leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes were analyzed. Results·Maternal clinical data of 359 pregnant patients were collected, 6 cases of twin pregnancy were excluded, and the remaining 353 cases of pregnancy with chronic kidney disease were included in this study. Among them, 230 cases of pregnancy without related maternal and fetal complications were included in the good pregnancy outcome group (control group), and 123 cases of pregnancy with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were included in the adverse pregnancy outcome group (study group). The adverse pregnancy outcome group (one pregnancy can have multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes) includes 69 cases of preeclampsia (including 43 cases of severe preeclampsia), 29 cases of acute kidney injury, 69 cases of premature delivery, 34 cases of infants smaller than gestational age, 46 cases of low birth weight infants, 41 cases of neonatal admission to NICU, and 7 cases of miscarriage after 20 weeks of gestation or neonatal death. There were no differences in age, body mass index, pregnancy times and birth times between the study group and control group. In patients with chronic kidney disease, those who had chronic hypertension (OR=3.385, 95% CI 1.115--10.726, P=0.031), serum creatinine over 60 μmol/L (OR= 2.828, 95% CI 1.439--5.557, P=0.003), 24-hour urine protein≥0.3 g (OR=2.234, 95% CI 1.122--4.448, P=0.022), and lupus nephritis before 20 weeks of gestation (OR=4.917, 95% CI=1.967--12.290, P=0.001) were at significantly higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The area under the ROC curve was 0.759, the sensitivity was 52.8%, and the specificity was 84.2% for predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with chronic kidney disease. Conclusion·Chronic hypertension, 24-hour urine protein≥0.3 g, nephritis type of lupus nephritis and serum creatinine≥ 60 μmol/L before 20 weeks of gestation are independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcome in CKD patients. The combination of the above four indicators have a good predictive value for adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Nutrient intake for pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is important to ensure satisfactory birth outcomes. This study aims to explore the dietary profiles of patients with GDM, compare the results with the Chinese dietary guidelines or Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) from China and investigate the relationship between maternal dietary intake and pregnancy outcomes. Patients and Methods: A total of 221 patients with GDM in the second trimester were included in the cohort. Dietary intake data were collected using a 24-hour recall method for three consecutive days. The pregnancy outcomes of these participants were subsequently monitored. Both univariate logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the associations between dietary intake variables or general characteristics variables and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Results: Participants with adverse pregnancy outcomes showed a lower intake of iodine and vitamin D, a lower percentage of dietary energy intake from carbohydrates and a higher percentage of dietary energy intake from fats, compared to participants without adverse pregnancy outcomes. The gestational weight gain and family history of diabetes were associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Conversely, regular exercise, the intake of iodine and Vitamin D, and the percentage of dietary energy intake from carbohydrates were associated with a decreased risk. Conclusion: The daily diet of pregnant women with GDM in China did not meet the dietary guidelines or DRIs. The low intake of Vitamin D and iodine, the low dietary carbohydrate ratio, family history of diabetes, lack of exercise, and high gestational weight gain were associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the relationship between occupational heat exposure, physiological heat strain indicators and adverse outcomes in pregnant women. Design: Prospective cohort. Setting: Workplaces in Tamil Nadu, India. Sample: A cohort of 800 pregnant women engaged in moderate to heavy physical work in 2017–2019 and 2021–2022. Methods: Participants were recruited at between 8 and 14 weeks of gestation. Occupational heat exposure and heat strain indicators were captured each trimester. 'Heat exposed' was defined as heat stress exceeding the threshold limit value (TLV) for safe manual work (with maximum wet‐bulb globe temperatures of 27.5°C for a heavy workload and 28.0°C for a moderate workload). Physiological heat strain indicators (HSIs) such as core body temperature (CBT) and urine specific gravity (USG) were measured before and after each shift. Heat‐related health symptoms were captured using the modified HOTHAPS questionnaire. Main outcome measures: The main outcome measures included (1) a composite measure of any adverse pregnancy outcome (APO) during pregnancy (including miscarriage, preterm birth, low birthweight, stillbirth, intrauterine growth restriction and birth defects), (2) a composite measure of adverse outcomes at birth (3) and miscarriage. Results: Of the 800 participants, 47.3% had high occupational heat exposure. A rise in CBT was recorded in 17.4% of exposed workers, and 29.6% of workers experienced moderate dehydration (USG ≥ 1.020). Heat‐exposed women had a doubled risk of miscarriage (adjusted odds ratio, aOR 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 1.0–5.7). High occupational heat exposure was associated with an increased risk of any adverse pregnancy and foetal outcome (aOR 2.3; 95% CI 1.4–3.8) and adverse outcome at birth (aOR 2.0; 95% CI 1.2–3.3). Conclusions: High occupational heat exposure is associated with HSIs and adverse pregnancy outcomes in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome (APO). However, the genetic causality of this association remains unclear. In this study, Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to explore the potential causal relationship between SLE and APO risk. Methods: We selected 45 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with SLE from published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). APO's statistics are obtained from the GWAS database. MR estimates were performed using the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method, the MR-Egger method, and the weighted median (WM) method. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept, MR-pleiotropic residual and outlier method, stay-one analysis and funnel plot. Results: The results showed a causal relationship between SLE and pre-eclampsia (OR = 1.036, 95 % confidence interval 1.006 to 1.068, P = 0.019), and no significant causal relationship was found between SLE and other adverse pregnancy outcomes, including postpartum hemorrhage, placental abruption, spontaneous abortion, premature rupture of membranes, fetal distress, gestational diabetes mellitus. These findings were robust in several sensitivity analyses. Conclusion: This MR study demonstrated the causal effect of SLE on preeclampsia. It provides important clues for identifying and early predicting risk factors for preeclampsia.

Bai-Bing Gao,1,2,&ast; Qing-qing Zhang,1,&ast; Shu-qin Dong,1,2 Fei Gao,1,2 Xia Liu,3 Jing Wei,3 Yu Lu1 1Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, 225300, People’s Republic of China; 2Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116044, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, 225300, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yu Lu; Jing Wei, Email luyu_666@126.com; qlm_weijin@163.comAim: We investigate the association of mammalian sterile line 20-like kinase 1 (MST1) in the first trimester with the risks of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and adverse pregnancy outcomes.Methods: Pregnancies were recruited during their first antenatal care visit between 8 and 12 gestational weeks. These pregnancies underwent an oral glucose tolerance test between 24 and 28 gestational weeks and were followed up until delivery. Serum MST1 levels at 8– 12 gestational weeks and 24– 28 gestational weeks were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between MST1 levels in the first trimester and the risks of GDM and adverse pregnancy outcomes.Results: This cohort study enrolled a total of 231 pregnancies. GDM was present in 42 (18.18%) women. Compared to the normal glucose tolerance (NGT) group, the GDM group had higher levels of FPG, HOMA-IR, and MST1 both in the first and second trimesters, but had lower HOMA-β levels only in the second trimester. Then participants were classified according to the median MST1 value in the first trimester. Incidences of GDM, composite adverse pregnancy outcomes, preterm birth, and macrosomia increased in women with higher MST1 values. Serum MST1 in the first trimester was correlated with FPG, 1hr PG, 2hr PG, and HOMA-IR, while inversely correlated with HOMA-β in the second trimester. Furthermore, after adjusting for traditional risk factors, women with higher first-trimester MST1 values had greater odds of GDM, composite adverse pregnancy outcomes, preterm birth, and macrosomia (aOR 2.276, P=0.030; aOR 2.690, P=0.003; aOR 3.210, P=0.048; aOR 5.488, P=0.010).Conclusion: Elevated levels of MST1 in the first trimester of pregnancies are associated with increased risks of GDM and adverse pregnancy outcomes.Keywords: mammalian sterile line 20-like kinase 1, gestational diabetes mellitus, adverse pregnancy outcome, blood glucose

Background Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) is recommended for tuberculosis prevention yet data on the safety of first-trimester pregnancy exposure are limited. Methods Planned secondary analysis in a TB prevention trial of adverse pregnancy outcomes among participants assigned to 9-month IPT who became pregnant during (IPT-exposed) or after (unexposed) IPT. Regression models compared binary outcomes of a composite adverse outcome (any non-live birth, excluding induced abortion); preterm delivery <37 weeks; and low birth weight <2500 g) among exposure groups. Models were adjusted for latent TB infection, maternal age, CD4 count, and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Results In total, 128 participants had a known pregnancy outcome; 39 IPT-exposed and 89 unexposed. At pregnancy outcome, ART use was lower in IPT-exposed (79%) than unexposed women (98%). Overall, 29 pregnancies ended in a composite adverse outcome (25 spontaneous abortions, 2 stillbirths and 2 ectopic pregnancies), 15 preterm deliveries, and 10 infants with low birth weight. IPT was associated with the composite adverse outcome adjusting for covariates at enrollment (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15, 3.41), but the effect was attenuated when adjusted for covariates at pregnancy outcome (aRR 1.47; 95% CI.84, 2.55); IPT was not associated with preterm delivery (relative risk [RR] 0.87; 95% CI.32–2.42) or low birth weight (RR 1.01; 95% CI.29, 3.56). Conclusions First-trimester IPT exposure was associated with nearly two-fold increased risk of fetal demise, mostly spontaneous abortion, though the association was attenuated when adjusted for covariates proximal to pregnancy outcome including ART use. Further study is needed to inform TB prevention guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treponema pallidum(Tp), a common sexually transmitted pathogen, can infect the fetus via placental vertical transmission, leading to congenital syphilis(CS). This infection results in adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as stillbirth, miscarriage, preterm birth, and fetal growth restriction. However, the exact pathogenesis remains unclear. Studies indicate that patients with early syphilis primarily exhibit pro-inflammatory immune responses. The Tp has been proven to induce dysfunction in various immune cells and abnormal expression of cytokines, potentially disrupting immune tolerance homeostasis and leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Grounded in the current understanding of CS and maternal-fetal immunology by scholars both domestically and internationally, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the potential mechanisms of Tp interacting with the cells of the maternal-fetal interface, ultimately leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes. It summarizes the pathogenesis characteristics, clinical manifestations, and maternal-fetal immune responses of CS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Antibiotics for bacteriuria and urinary tract infection are commonly prescribed during pregnancy to avoid adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between significant bacteriuria in pregnancy and any of the four pregnancy outcomes: preterm delivery; low birth weight; small for gestational age; and preterm labour. Methods Systematic review with meta-analysis of observational studies. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane CENTRAL library, and Web of Science for observational studies published before 1 March 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Study identification, data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment was performed by two independent authors. We combined the included studies in meta-analyses and expressed results as ORs with 95% CIs (Prospero CRD42016053485). Results We identified 58 studies involving 421 657 women. The quality of the studies was mainly poor or fair. The pooled, unadjusted OR for the association between any significant bacteriuria and: (i) preterm delivery was 1.62 (95% CI: 1.30–2.01; 27 studies; I2 = 61%); (ii) low birth weight was 1.50 (95% CI: 1.30–1.72; 47 studies; I2 = 74%); (iii) preterm labour was 2.29 (95% CI: 1.53–3.43; 3 studies; I2 = 0%); and (iv) small for gestational age was 1.33 (95% CI: 0.88–2.02; 7 studies; I2 = 54%). Four studies provided an adjusted OR, but were too diverse to combine in meta-analysis. Conclusions This systematic review identified an association between significant bacteriuria in pregnancy and the three complications: preterm delivery; low birth weight; and preterm labour. However, the quality of the available evidence is insufficient to conclude whether this association is merely due to confounding factors. There is a lack of high-quality evidence to support active identification and treatment of bacteriuria in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) continues to increase, and the phenomenon of women giving birth at an older age is becoming more common worldwide. Less is known abouts the impact of GDM combined with advanced maternal age (AMA) on pregnancy outcomes. To explore the impact of AMA complicated with GDM on pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This study included 34,602 pregnancies between 2018 and 2020 in Hangzhou, China. The pregnant women were divided into four groups according to advanced age (≥35 years) and GDM as follows: AMA women without GDM (non‐AGDM) group (n = 2614), young pregnant women with GDM (YGDM) group (n = 4016), AMA women with GDM (AGDM) group (n = 850), and young pregnant women without GDM (non‐YGDM) group (n = 27,122). Univariate analysis was carried out by Mann–Whitney U test or Pearson's χ2 test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the effect of AMA and GDM on pregnancy outcomes. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in the comparison against non‐YGDM garoup, the ORs of fetal chromosome abnormality, parity, urgent cesarean section, gravidity, scheduled cesarean section, body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, pre‐eclampsia, thrombocytopenia, hyperlipidemia, BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2, blood urea nitrogen, fasting blood glucose, and creatinine in AGDM group were 16.044, 4.284, 3.530, 3.284, 3.257, 2.049, 1.935, 1.898, 1.690, 1.471, 1.304, 1.216, and 1.026 (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: The prevalence of pregnant women with AGDM was 2.46% in Hang Zhou, China. The increasing gravidity of AMA women was related to a greater risk of GDM. The AGDM group associated with a greater risks of chromosomal abnormality in offspring and cesarean section, especially urgent cesarean section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the increased frequency of endometriosis, it remains one of the most enigmatic disorders regarding its effects on pregnancy. Endometriosis adversely affects both natural and assisted conception. Impaired folliculogenesis, which causes follicular dysfunction and low egg quality, as well as luteal phase problems, reduced fertilization, and abnormal embryogenesis, are some of the mechanisms advocated to explain reproductive dysfunction. There is a rising need for a comprehensive study of the potential negative consequences of this condition on pregnancy outcomes, including the postpartum period, as more women with a medical history of endometriosis become pregnant. Obstetrical complications (small for gestational age [SGA], cesarean section [CS], miscarriage, hemorrhage, low placental adhesion, and preterm delivery) are statistically elevated in women with endometriosis. Furthermore, ruptured ovarian endometrioma, appendicitis, intestinal perforation, and hemoperitoneum have been described in pregnancy. Obstetricians are largely unfamiliar with these complications, as they have not been thoroughly investigated. The development and pathogenesis of endometriosis is an important field of study and has not yet been fully elucidated. Finding these mechanisms is crucial for the development of new and more effective strategies to treat this condition. Endometriosis can have an impact on obstetric and neonatal outcomes of pregnancy, in addition to its potential effects on conception. To date, no additional monitoring is recommended for pregnancies with a history of endometriosis. However, more studies are urgently needed to assess the need for the tailored pregnancy monitoring of women with endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Substance use disorder is a growing concern in the USA, especially among pregnant women. This study was undertaken to assess the impact of substance use disorder on adverse pregnancy outcomes using a nationwide sample of inpatient pregnancy hospitalizations in the USA, and to elucidate the influence on each type of adverse pregnancy outcome. Study design: A cross-sectional analysis of inpatient pregnancy hospitalizations in the USA from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Sample from 2016 to 2020 was conducted. International Classification of Diseases – 10th revision and diagnosis-related group codes were used to identify inpatient pregnancy-related delivery hospitalizations with a substance use disorder and/or adverse pregnancy outcomes. Propensity score matching and multiple logistic regression analyses were undertaken to predict the likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes among pregnancy hospitalizations with and without substance use disorder. Subgroup analyses were performed to estimate the impact of substance use disorder on each adverse pregnancy outcome. Results: From 3,238,558 hospitalizations, the prevalence of adverse pregnancy outcomes was substantially higher among pregnancy hospitalizations with substance use disorder (35.6 %) compared with pregnancy hospitalizations without substance use disorder (25.1 %, p

Background The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes has remained high in recent years, which poses a serious threat to maternal and neonatal life and health. Chronic stress is known to be a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, while the relationship between allostatic load (AL) as a composite physiological index of chronic stress, and adverse pregnancy outcomes has not been clarified. Objective To explore the effect of AL on adverse pregnancy outcomes in women in late pregnancy. Methods Women in late pregnancy who met the study requirements were recruited as study subjects by using the convenience sampling method from November 2021 to November 2022 in the obstetrics outpatient clinics of the 901 Hospital, Joint Logistic Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Jin'an Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital. Basic information such as general and obstetric data were collected through questionnairs, biological indicators were collected through physical examination and laboratory tests, and AL scores of the study subjects were calculated by referring to AL-related literature; pregnancy outcome information was obtained by reviewing the hospital electronic medical record system. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the effect of AL on adverse pregnancy outcomes in women in late pregnancy. Results A total of 354 women in late pregnancy with an average age of (29.3±4.1) years and upper quartile of AL total score of 3 were included in this study. The upper quartile of the total AL score of the study subjects was used as the high-risk threshold, and they were divided into low-level AL (AL

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been extensively used across numerous industries and consumer goods. Due to their high persistence and mobility, they are ubiquitous in the environment. Exposure to PFAS occurs in people via multiple pathways such as dermal contact, water supply, air inhalation, and dietary intake. Even if some PFAS are being phased out because of their persistent presence in the environment and harmful impacts on human health, mixes of replacement and legacy PFAS will continue to pollute the ecosystem. Numerous toxicological investigations have revealed harmful effects of PFAS exposure on female reproductive health, e.g., polycystic ovaries syndrome, premature ovarian failure, endometriosis, reproductive system tumors, pregnancy complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite extensive epidemiological studies on the reproductive toxicity of PFAS, research findings remain inconsistent, and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In this review, we give an in-depth description of the sources and pathways of PFAS, and then review the reproductive toxicity of PFAS and its possible mechanisms.

Hongyan Liu,1,2 Zhaomin Zeng,1,2 Hua Liao,1,2 Qing Hu,1,2 Haiyan Yu1,2 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China; 2Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Haiyan Yu, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, No. 20, 3rd Section, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Email fanjy422@163.comIntroduction: Umbilical artery thrombosis is a rare complication associated with poor perinatal outcomes. The incidence of umbilical artery thrombosis in pregnancy is estimated from 0.0025% to 0.045%. Prenatal screening and diagnosis of umbilical artery thrombosis is usually performed by ultrasonography. Up to now, no treatment consensus has been achieved.Case Presentation: We present a case of dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy complicated with selective termination of one twin with lymphoid cystic tumor at 14 weeks and 2 days of gestation and the alive twin occurred single umbilical artery thrombosis at 35 weeks and 6 days of gestation. The emergency cesarean section was performed after emergency admission. A healthy male baby was delivered weighing 2690g with Apgar scores of 10 and 10 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively, whereas the dead fetus weighed 10 g. Thrombosis was observed throughout one of the umbilical artery of the alive fetus. The woman and the infant are followed up closely and both in good condition.Conclusion: The number and morphology of umbilical arteries should be carefully observed during pregnancy. Individualized management of umbilical artery thrombosis should be based on clinical conditions. Timely termination of pregnancy if necessary could be suitable to improve adverse pregnancy outcomes.Keywords: umbilical artery thrombosis, adverse pregnancy outcome, twin pregnancy

Abstract Background and Aims The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) continues to increase, and the phenomenon of women giving birth at an older age is becoming more common worldwide. Less is known abouts the impact of GDM combined with advanced maternal age (AMA) on pregnancy outcomes. To explore the impact of AMA complicated with GDM on pregnancy outcomes. Methods This study included 34,602 pregnancies between 2018 and 2020 in Hangzhou, China. The pregnant women were divided into four groups according to advanced age (≥35 years) and GDM as follows: AMA women without GDM (non‐AGDM) group (n = 2614), young pregnant women with GDM (YGDM) group (n = 4016), AMA women with GDM (AGDM) group (n = 850), and young pregnant women without GDM (non‐YGDM) group (n = 27,122). Univariate analysis was carried out by Mann–Whitney U test or Pearson's χ2 test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the effect of AMA and GDM on pregnancy outcomes. Results Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in the comparison against non‐YGDM garoup, the ORs of fetal chromosome abnormality, parity, urgent cesarean section, gravidity, scheduled cesarean section, body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, pre‐eclampsia, thrombocytopenia, hyperlipidemia, BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2, blood urea nitrogen, fasting blood glucose, and creatinine in AGDM group were 16.044, 4.284, 3.530, 3.284, 3.257, 2.049, 1.935, 1.898, 1.690, 1.471, 1.304, 1.216, and 1.026 (all p

Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) are the leading causes of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). We conducted cluster analysis to identify distinct phenotypes among aPLs-associated APOs patients. This approach aims to facilitate risk stratification and improve pregnancy outcomes for obstetric APS. This was a retrospective study of persistent aPLs positive women cohort in Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Baseline demographic characteristics, clinical manifestation, previous APOs and antibodies profiles were included for hierarchical cluster analysis. Placentae from portions of patients were collected and performed the histopathologic diagnoses. Four clusters among 209 patients with 477 pregnancies were identified. Cluster 1 comprised patients with triple aPLs positivity and demonstrates a high incidence of gestational hypertension (34.92%, P < 0.05) and preterm delivery (20.63%, P < 0.05). Patients in cluster 2 were characterized by lupus anticoagulant (LA) positivity, with high risk of whole gestational APOs. Cluster 3 included patients with isolated aPLs-IgM isotype combined with early miscarriage (60.92%, P = 0.016). Patients in cluster 4 majorly presented aPLs-IgG isotype combined with placenta insufficiency (22.73%). During the follow-up, the live birth rate in cluster 1 and 2 was only 69.20%. Placenta pathology revealed the most severe impairment within cluster 1, whereas clusters 3 and 4 exhibited relatively milder damage. By cluster analysis, we identified four clinical subtypes of aPLs-associated APOs patients. Patients with triple antibodies or high-risk lupus characteristics were prone to occurred gestational hypertension and premature delivery. Isolated LA or aCL/aβ2GPI positivity were found to be more frequently associated with early-stage fetal loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The association between extreme birth spacing and adverse outcomes is controversial, and available evidence is fragmented into different classifications of birth spacing. Material and methods: We conducted a systematic review of observational studies to evaluate the association between birth spacing (i.e., interpregnancy interval and interoutcome interval) and adverse outcomes (i.e., pregnancy complications, adverse birth outcomes). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random‐effects model, and the dose–response relationships were evaluated using generalized least squares trend estimation. Results: A total of 129 studies involving 46 874 843 pregnancies were included. In the general population, compared with an interpregnancy interval of 18–23 months, extreme intervals (<6 months and ≥ 60 months) were associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including preterm birth, small for gestational age, low birthweight, fetal death, birth defects, early neonatal death, and premature rupture of fetal membranes (pooled OR range: 1.08–1.56; p < 0.05). The dose–response analyses further confirmed these J‐shaped relationships (pnon‐linear < 0.001–0.009). Long interpregnancy interval was only associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes (pnon‐linear < 0.005 and pnon‐linear < 0.001, respectively). Similar associations were observed between interoutcome interval and risk of low birthweight and preterm birth (pnon‐linear < 0.001). Moreover, interoutcome interval of ≥60 months was associated with an increased risk of cesarean delivery (pooled OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.04–2.83). For pregnancies following preterm births, an interpregnancy interval of 9 months was not associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, according to dose–response analyses (pnon‐linear = 0.008). Based on limited evidence, we did not observe significant associations between interpregnancy interval or interoutcome interval after pregnancy losses and risk of small for gestational age, fetal death, miscarriage, or preeclampsia (pooled OR range: 0.76–1.21; p > 0.05). Conclusions: Extreme birth spacing has extensive adverse effects on maternal and infant health. In the general population, interpregnancy interval of 18–23 months may be associated with potential benefits for both mothers and infants. For women with previous preterm birth, the optimal birth spacing may be 9 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is known to be associated with pregnancy complications but there is limited evidence about the strength of these associations in recent clinical practice, especially after the introduction of strict guidelines for the management of pregnancies with GDM in a multidisciplinary team setting. The objectives of our study were to first compare the rates of complications in pregnancies with GDM with those that had pre-existing diabetes mellitus and those without diabetes; and second, to derive measures of effect size expressed as odds ratios after adjustment for confounding factors to assess the independent association of GDM in prediction of these pregnancy complications. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective cohort study undertaken at a large maternity unit in the United Kingdom between January 2010 and June 2022. We included singleton pregnancies that were booked at our unit at 11–13 weeks' gestation. Multivariate regression analysis was carried out to determine the risks of complications in pregnancies with GDM after adjusting for pregnancy characteristics. Risks were expressed as odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence intervals [CI]) and expressed graphically in forest plots. Results: The study population included 53,649 singleton pregnancies including 509 (1%) with pre-existing DM, 2089 (4%) with GDM and 49,122 (95%) pregnancies without diabetes. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that there was a significant independent contribution from GDM in the prediction of adverse outcomes, including maternal complications such as preterm delivery, polyhydramnios, preeclampsia and delivery of large for gestational age neonates and elective caesarean section (CS); and neonatal complications including admission to neonatal intensive care unit, hypoglycaemia, jaundice and respiratory distress syndrome. Conclusions: GDM is associated with an increased rate of pregnancy complications compared to those without diabetes, even after adjustment for maternal and pregnancy characteristics. GDM does not increase the risk of stillbirth, hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy or neonatal death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is proposed as a risk factor for preterm delivery, fetal growth restriction, and preeclampsia with severe consequences for maternal and neonatal health, but the biological mechanisms involved are elusive. Porphyromonas gingivalis gain access to the placental bed and impair trophoblast cell function, as assessed in murine and human pregnancy, suggesting a pathogenic role in adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. P. gingivalis releases outer membrane vesicles (P. gingivalis OMV) during growth that spread to distant tissues and are internalized in host cells as described in metabolic, neurological, and vascular systemic diseases. Here we tested the hypothesis that P. gingivalis OMV internalized in trophoblast cells disrupt their metabolism leading to trophoblast and placenta dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes. An in vitro design with human trophoblast cells incubated with P. gingivalis OMV was used together with ex vivo and in vivo approaches in pregnant mice treated with P. gingivalis OMV. P. gingivalis OMV modulated human trophoblast cell metabolism by reducing glycolytic pathways and decreasing total reactive oxygen species with sustained mitochondrial activity. Metabolic changes induced by P. gingivalis OMV did not compromise cell viability; instead, it turned trophoblast cells into a metabolic resting state where central functions such as migration and invasion were reduced. The effects of P. gingivalis OMV on human trophoblast cells were corroborated ex vivo in mouse whole placenta and in vivo in pregnant mice: P. gingivalis OMV reduced glycolytic pathways in the placenta and led to lower placental and fetal weight gain in vivo with reduced placental expression of the glucose transporter GLUT1. The present results point to OMV as a key component of P. gingivalis involved in adverse pregnancy outcomes, and even more, unveil a metabolic cue in the deleterious effect of P. gingivalis OMV on trophoblast cells and mouse pregnancy, providing new clues to understand pathogenic mechanisms in pregnancy complications and other systemic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, our pregnant systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) cohort, which was under medical surveillance of both our Rheumatology and Obstetrics departments, was analyzed. We intended to determine the effects of pregnancy on disease activity and the correlation between disease flares and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: One hundred sixty eight pregnancy data involving 136 patients with SLE were examined. Cumulative clinical, laboratory, and serological parameters were described. Disease activity and flares were calculated using the systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) in the pre/postpartum periods and the SLEPDAI in the three trimesters of pregnancy. Patients with a SLEDAI-2K or SLEPDAI ≥ 4 were classified as "active." Patients with lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) during each of these periods were identified. Fetal/neonatal death, premature birth due to pre-eclampsia, eclampsia or hemolysis, elevated Liver enzymes (HELLP) syndrome, and neonates small for gestational age were determined as adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO). Results: Out of 168 pregnancies, there were 60 (35.7%) pregnancies with flares covering the pregnancy and 6 months of postpartum period. The mean SLEDAI in the 6 months postpartum period was significantly higher compared to mean disease activity during pregnancy (p <.05). Of all pregnancies, 132 (78.6%) were in LLDAS during pregnancy. Comparison of the frequency of severe postpartum flares in patients who were in LLDAS during pregnancy revealed a lower percentage of flares compared to those who were not in the LLDAS group (11 vs 29%, p <.05). APO was observed in 33.9% of 168 pregnancies. The mean SLEPDAI score was significantly higher in APO+ pregnancies than in APO− pregnancies (4.9 ± 6.1 vs 2.8 ± 4.9, p =.002). Comparison of SLICC damage score between APO – and + pregnancies revealed a significantly higher score in APO+ pregnancies (1.8 ± 2.1 vs 0.8 ± 1.3, p =.001). Conclusion: Postpartum six-month period appears to have the highest risk for disease flares during SLE pregnancies. Disease activity during pregnancy increases the risk of APO. In order to achieve a positive pregnancy outcome and lower maternal morbidity, regular follow-up of patients is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION Does the exposure to job loss during pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth? SUMMARY ANSWER The experience of own or partner's job loss during the pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of miscarriageand stillbirth. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Prior research on the psycho-social aspect of pregnancy loss has investigated the contextual and the individual-level stressors. At the contextual level, natural disasters, air pollution, and economic downturns are associated with higher risk of pregnancy loss. At the individual level, intense working schedules and financial strain are linked with increased risk of pregnancy loss both at early and later stages of the gestation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This work draws on high-quality individual data of 'Understanding Society', a longitudinal survey that has interviewed a representative sample of households living in the UK annually since 2009. Approximately 40 000 households were recruited. The analyses use all the available survey waves (1–12, 2009–2022). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The final sample consisted of 8142 pregnancy episodes that contain complete informationon pregnancy outcome and date of conception. Ongoing pregnancies at the time of the interview were excluded from the final sample. The outcome variable indicated whether a pregnancy resulted in a live birth or a pregnancy loss whereas the exposure variable identified the women's or their partner's job loss because of redundancy or a dismissal. Logistic regression models were employed to estimate the relation between job loss during pregnancy and pregnancy loss. The models were adjusted for an array of socio-demographic and economic characteristics following a stepwise approach. Several sensitivity analyses complemented the main findings. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Baseline models controlling for women's demographic background and prior experience of miscarriage estimated an increased risk of pregnancy loss when women were exposed to their own or their partner's job loss during their pregnancy (odds ratio (OR) = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.32, 2.99). When the models were adjusted for all socio-economic and partnership-related covariates the association remained robust (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.20, 2.73). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION First, the pregnancy outcome and the date of conception were self-reported and may besubjected to recall and social desirability bias. Second, although we adjusted for an array socio-demographic characteristics and self-reported health, other contextual factors might be correlated with both job loss and pregnancy loss. Third, owing to the limited sample size, we could not assess if the main finding holds across different socio-economic strata. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS By showing that exposure to a job loss during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, we underline the relevance of pregnancy loss as a preventable public health matter. This result also calls for policy designthat enhances labour market protection and social security buffers for pregnant women and their partners. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The authors received the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: H2020 Excellent Science, H2020 European Research Council, Grant/Award Number: 694262 (project DisCont—Discontinuities in Household and Family Formation) and the Economic and Social Research Centre on Micro-Social Change (MiSoC). There are no conflicts of interest to declare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the incidence of preterm delivery, low birth weight low birth weight (LBW), and small for gestational age (SGA) in pregnant women with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Hunan Province and to explore the related factors. Methods The pregnant women with HBV infection who delivered from January to December, 2021 in various midwifery institutions in Hunan Province and reported to the communication system of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B were investigated. Their demographic characteristics, pregnancy, hepatitis B virus-related detection, and treatment were analyzed. The incidences of preterm delivery, LBW, and SGA were calculated respectively. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. Results A total of 28 100 pregnant women with HBV infection were included, with a premature delivery rate of 6.8% (1 899/28 100), LBW rate of 4.4% (1 224/28 100), and SGA rate of 6.9% (1 931/28 100). Risk factors for preterm delivery in pregnant women with HBV infection included maternal age of 30 to 34 years and 3 35 years (compared with 25 to 29 years old), gestational age of the first antenatal examination 3 28 weeks (compared with 1 to 12 weeks), and antiviral therapy during pregnancy. The adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were 1.40 (95%CI: 1.23-1.60》 1.97 (95%CI: 1.70-2.28), 1.15 (95%CI: 1.03-1.28), and 1.36 (95%CI: 1.16-1.59), respectively. Maternal age < 20 years old, 30 to 34 years old, and 3 35 years old, and antiviral therapy during pregnancy were risk factors for LBW, and their aOR values were 1.75 (95%CI: 1.08-3.16), 132 (95%CI: 1,13-1.54) and 1.88 (95%CI: 1.57-2.25): 135 (95%CI: 1.12-1.63), respectively. Maternal age < 20 years old, 20 to 24 years old, and antiviral therapy during pregnancy were risk factors for SGA, and their aOR values were 1.92 (95%CZ: 1.24-2.97) and 134 (95%CI: 1.14-1.56), and 1.26 (95%CI: 1.07-1.48), respectively. Birth experience was a common protective factor for preterm delivery, LBW, and SGA, and their aOR values were 0.75 (95%CI: 0.67-0.85), 0.68 (95%CI: 0.59-0.78), and 0.82 (95%CI: 0.73-0,92), respectively. Conclusion The incidence of preterm delivery, LBW\and SGA in pregnant women with HBV infection in Hunan Province is not high, and it is affected by maternal age, parity, the time of the first antenatal examination, and antiviral therapy during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Preterm delivery remains the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality leading to a burden lasting well beyond the inherent costs of caring for the premature neonate. Physician-scientists, scientists, and clinicians have intensively studied associations, scoured every aspect to determine modifiable risk factors, and trialed prospective interventions to generate best practices. We aimed to generate a useful review for clinicians for the identification of women at risk for preterm birth along with modifiable factors and treatments to help reduce preterm delivery. Mechanism: We performed a literature search for preterm birth prevention to facilitate compilation of a narrative review. Findings in Brief: The PROLONG study found that Makena did not significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth (PTB)

Objective: Preterm birth (PTB) is considered as a public health problem and one of the main risk factors related to the global disease burden. The purpose of this study aims to explore the influence of exposure to major air pollutants at different pregnancies on PTB.Methods: The relationship between air pollutants and PTB in China was collected from cohort studies and case-control studies published before 30 April 2022. Meta-analysis was carried out with STATA 15.0 software.Results: A total of 2,115 papers were retrieved, of which 18 papers met the inclusion criteria. The comprehensive effect of pollutant exposure and PTB were calculated. PM2.5 during entire pregnancy and O3 exposure during third trimester were positively associated with preterm birth. Every 10 μg/m3 increase in the average concentration of PM2.5 during the whole pregnancy will increase the risk of premature delivery by 4%, and every 10 μg/m3 increase in the average concentration of O3 in the third trimester will increase the risk of premature delivery by 1%.Conclusion: Exposure to PM2.5 entire prenatal pregnancy and O3 in third trimester is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth occurrence.

Objective To investigate the value of morphological abnormalities of uterine artery on Doppler ultrasound combined with serum CC chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19) level in predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods Eighty pregnant women with SLE were selected from January 2015 to January 2022 in Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital and divided into APO group (34 women) and non-APO group (46 women) according to their pregnancy outcomes. The morphology of uterine artery on Doppler ultrasound and serum CCL19 level were compared between the two groups. The correlation and predictive efficacy of the combined detection with APO in SLE patients were analyzed. Results As compared with non-APO group, APO group had an increase in morphological abnormalities of uterine artery and serum CCL19 level (P < 0.05). Logistic risk regression showed that the morphology of uterine artery and serum CCL19 were risk factors for APO in patients with SLE (P < 0.05). The ROC curve showed that the optimal cut-off point for serum CCL19 to predict APO in patients with SLE was 335.89 ng/L, and the area under curve (AUC) for predicting APO in patients with SLE was 0.816. The AUC for morphological abnormalities of uterine artery on Doppler ultrasound to predict APO in patients with SLE was 0.694. The AUC for the combined prediction was 0.858. Conclusions Morphological abnormalities of uterine artery on Doppler ultrasound and serum CCL19 level are risk factors for APO in patients with SLE, and their combined detection has a higher predictive efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adverse pregnancy outcomes occur more commonly in developing countries and are still prevalent in our sub-region. Microalbuminuria is a marker of endothelial dysfunction and has been proposed as an aetiological factor in the development of some adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and pre-term labour. Aim: The aim is to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study with follow-up amongst women in early pregnancy presenting at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Three hundred and thirty women with singleton pregnancy at gestational age 0.05). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of microalbuminuria amongst healthy pregnant women and pregnancy complications occurred more frequently in women with microalbuminuria than in those without. However, this association was not sufficient to predict adverse outcomes in pregnancy.

Abstract Pregnancy during adolescence is a major risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Further, Motherhood during the adolescent period is identified as a major global health burden. Considering the widely known importance of the negative impact of adolescent pregnancy, motherhood at an early age, and adverse pregnancy outcomes, this paper aims to provide insight into correlates of teen pregnancy, adolescent motherhood and adverse pregnancy outcome. This study utilizes the data from UDAYA survey conducted in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The eligible sample size for the study was 4897 married adolescent girls between the ages of 15 and 19 years. Bivariate analysis with a chi-square test of association and Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to fulfill the aim of the study. Our study shows that a major proportion of married adolescents (61%) got pregnant before the age of 20 years and around 42% of all adolescent married women gave birth to a child before reaching the age of 20 years. Adolescents who married before the age of 18 years were 1.79 times more likely to experience pregnancy (OR: 1.79; CI: 1.39–2.30) and 3.21 times more likely to experience motherhood (OR: 3.21; CI: 2.33–4.43). In the present study, women who experienced physical violence were at higher risk for having an adverse pregnancy outcome (OR: 1.41; CI: 1.08–1.84) than those who did not experience physical violence. To conclude, regional and national level efforts focused on improving early marriage, education and empowering women and girls can be beneficial.

Abstract Background Antenatal health care utilization has the potential to influence maternal and new-born health. In this study, we assessed compliance of antenatal care utilization with national and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. We also examined association of antenatal care utilization with adverse pregnancy outcomes as secondary outcome. Methods This was a community-based cross sectional study conducted from July 2016 to November 2017 in rural south-central Ethiopia. We described antenatal care received by pregnant women, whom we followed at three prescheduled visits during pregnancy and collected birth data at time of delivery. Extent of antenatal care content received, timing of antenatal care, place of antenatal care and place and mode of delivery were obtained and computed in accordance with national and WHO guidelines. For adverse pregnancy outcomes, computed as sum of low birth weight, preterm birth, intrauterine foetal death, and stillbirth, the exposure variable used was antenatal care utilization. Results Seven hundred and four (704) women participated in the study, and 536 (76.1%) had attended at least one antenatal care visit. Among women who attended antenatal care visit, majority, 421 (79.3%), had done so at health centres and hospitals, while 110 (20.7%) attended at health post. Average number of antenatal care visits was 2.5, which is less than that recommended in national and WHO guidelines. Only 18 (2.6%) women had attended antenatal care in their first trimester, which is low in contrast to the expected 100% specified in the guidelines. Less than half (47%) of the women delivered in a health facility. This is in contrast to the 100% expected health institution deliveries. Low birth weight was 7.9% (n = 48), and preterm birth was 4.9% (n = 31). There were 12 twin pregnancies, three stillbirths, 11 spontaneous abortions, and two intrauterine foetal deaths. We did not find significant association between adverse pregnancy outcomes and antenatal care utilization (COR = 1.07, 95% CI 0.62, 1.86). Conclusion This study showed that antenatal care service utilization in the study area was markedly low compared to that recommended in national and WHO guidelines. The obtained antenatal health care utilization was not associated with the registered adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Abstract Background Women in early pregnancy infected by Toxoplasma gondii may have severe adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as spontaneous abortion and fetal malformation. The inhibitory molecule T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) is highly expressed on decidual dendritic cells (dDCs) and plays an important role in maintaining immune tolerance. However, whether T. gondii infection can cause dDC dysfunction by influencing the expression of Tim-3 and further participate in adverse pregnancy outcomes is still unclear. Methods An abnormal pregnancy model in Tim-3-deficient mice and primary human dDCs treated with Tim-3 neutralizing antibodies were used to examine the effect of Tim-3 expression on dDC dysfunction after T. gondii infection. Results Following T. gondii infection, the expression of Tim-3 on dDCs was downregulated, those of the pro-inflammatory functional molecules CD80, CD86, MHC-II, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-12 (IL-12) were increased, while those of the tolerant molecules indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) were significantly reduced. Tim-3 downregulation by T. gondii infection was closely associated with an increase in proinflammatory molecules and a decrease in tolerant molecules, which further resulted in dDC dysfunction. Moreover, the changes in Tim-3 induced by T. gondii infection further reduced the secretion of the cytokine IL-10 via the SRC-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, which ultimately contributed to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions Toxoplasma gondii infection can significantly downregulate the expression of Tim-3 and cause the aberrant expression of functional molecules in dDCs. This leads to dDC dysfunction, which can ultimately contribute to abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Further, the expression of the anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10 was significantly decreased by Tim-3 downregulation, which was mediated by the SRC-STAT3 signaling pathway in dDCs after T. gondii infection.

BackgroundPrevious studies have identified a series of specific adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) linked with temperature extremes. Most of them focus on preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Other possible adverse outcomes were under-researched. This study aimed to investigate the impact of ambient temperature on maternal complications, white blood cell count (WBC), newborn hearing, and neonatal jaundice.MethodsA total of 418 participants were recruited from Fuzhou Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital in 2016. Participants were invited to fill out a structured questionnaire. The gridded near-surface air temperatures at a resolution of 0.1°* 0.1° for Fuzhou were extracted from a published dataset. Meteorological data and PM2.5 were extracted based on participants’ residential addresses using R packages “ncdf4” and “raster.” Multivariate logistic regression models were used to quantify the effects of ambient temperature on APOs after controlling for confounders.ResultsOverall, there were 107 APOs, accounting for 25.6% of all participants. Every 1°C increase in mean temperature was associated with a 10.0% increase in APOs (aOR = 1.100, 95%CI 1.006–1.203) during the period of early pregnancy. However, negative associations were observed in the middle pregnancy period, and a 1°C increase in mean temperature was associated 8.8% decrease in APOs (aOR = 0.912, 95%CI 0.846–0.982). Diurnal temperature variation had a significant impact on APOs in the third trimester. Infant jaundice was negatively associated with temperature exposure in the middle and late pregnancy periods. The risk of neonatal jaundice increased at lag weeks 2–9 in the first trimester, with the greatest lagged effect (aOR = 1.201, 95%CI 1.020–1.413) observed at lag week 3. A 1°C increase in mean temperature led to a 29.6% (aOR = 1.296, 95%CI 1.019–1.649) increase in high WBC. A 1°C increase in temperature variation was associated with more than two times (aOR = 2.469, 95%CI 1.001–6.089) increase of high WBC in the first trimester and about five times (aOR = 4.724, 95%CI 1.548–14.409) increase in the third trimester.ConclusionAmbient temperature affects neonatal jaundice, newborn hearing loss, and infections during pregnancy. In addition to the identified epidemiologic link and susceptible exposure windows, there is a need to understand the underlying biological mechanisms for better recommendations for climate change adaptation policies.

Abstract Background There are no obvious thresholds at which the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes increases as a result of maternal hyperglycemia. HbA1c level which is representative of average blood glucose levels over the last 2–3 months is not as strongly predictive of adverse outcome compared to blood glucose values of oral glucose tolerance test. Data is sparse on the predictive value of HbA1c at term just prior to delivery on adverse outcome. We sought to evaluate HbA1c taken on admission for delivery at term on adverse outcomes of Cesarean delivery and large (≥ 90th centile) for gestational age (LGA) infants. Methods A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital in Malaysia from December 2017-August 2018. 1000 women at term whose deliveries were imminent were enrolled. Blood were drawn and immediately sent for HbA1c analysis at our hospital laboratory. Primary outcomes were Cesarean delivery and LGA. Results On crude analyses, Cesarean births (vs. vaginal births) were associated with significantly higher HbA1c (%) levels 5.4[5.2–5.7] vs. 5.3[5.1–5.6] P =

Pregnancy during adolescence is a major risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Further, Motherhood during the adolescent period is identified as a major global health burden. Considering the widely known importance of the negative impact of adolescent pregnancy, motherhood at an early age, and adverse pregnancy outcomes, this paper aims to provide insight into correlates of teen pregnancy, adolescent motherhood and adverse pregnancy outcome. This study utilizes the data from UDAYA survey conducted in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The eligible sample size for the study was 4897 married adolescent girls between the ages of 15 and 19 years. Bivariate analysis with a chi-square test of association and Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to fulfill the aim of the study. Our study shows that a major proportion of married adolescents (61%) got pregnant before the age of 20 years and around 42% of all adolescent married women gave birth to a child before reaching the age of 20 years. Adolescents who married before the age of 18 years were 1.79 times more likely to experience pregnancy (OR: 1.79; CI: 1.39–2.30) and 3.21 times more likely to experience motherhood (OR: 3.21; CI: 2.33–4.43). In the present study, women who experienced physical violence were at higher risk for having an adverse pregnancy outcome (OR: 1.41; CI: 1.08–1.84) than those who did not experience physical violence. To conclude, regional and national level efforts focused on improving early marriage, education and empowering women and girls can be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the association of isolated single umbilical artery (iSUA) confirmed at the mid-trimester anomaly scan and adverse pregnancy outcome and congenital malformations with up to 10 years postnatal follow up. This retrospective cohort study included 116,501 singleton pregnancies consecutively enrolled in first trimester screening for aneuploidies and mid-trimester anomaly scan at three University Hospitals in the Capital Region of Copenhagen, Denmark. Data from the Danish Fetal Medicine Database (2008–2017) were verified by manually scrutinizing pre- and postnatal records. The main outcomes of interest were intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD), small for gestational age (SGA), preterm delivery, cesarean section and unrecognized pre- and postnatal congenital malformations. In total, 775 pregnancies with iSUA were identified. Isolated SUA were associated with a significantly increased risk of IUFD (OR 4.16, 95% CI 2.06–8.44), SGA < 3rd centile (aOR 2.41, 95% 1.85–3.14) and SGA < 10th centile (aOR 1.84, 95% CI 1.53–2.21), but not with preterm delivery or cesarean section. The laterality of the missing artery was not associated with SGA. In total, 4.3% of pregnancies with iSUA had unrecognized congenital malformations. 1.5% with iSUA had congenital cardiovascular malformations, which were considered minor. Isolated SUA is associated with IUFD and SGA, supporting surveillance during third trimester. If, during the mid-trimester scan, the sonographer achieves thorough, extended cardiac views and finds no additional malformation other than SUA, fetal echocardiography seems not to be needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal vaginal colonisation can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth through intra-amniotic inflammation. Despite the concern, little is known about its risk factors and impact in pregnant women at high-risk for spontaneous preterm birth. Thus, we conducted this single-centre retrospective cohort study including 1381 consecutive women who were admitted to the high-risk pregnancy unit. The results of vaginal culture at admission were categorised according to the colonising organism: bacteria (Gram-negative or -positive) and genital mycoplasmas. Maternal baseline socioeconomic, and clinical characteristics, as well as pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes were compared according to the category. Maternal risk factors for Gram-negative colonisation included advanced maternal age, increased pre-pregnancy BMI, a greater number of past spontaneous abortions, earlier gestational age at admission, and IVF. Gram-positive colonisation was likewise associated with earlier gestational age at admission. Genital mycoplasmal colonisation was associated with a greater number of past induced abortions, a lower level of education completed, and a lower rate of multifetal pregnancy and IVF. The neonates from mothers with Gram-negative colonisation had a greater risk of NICU admission, proven early onset neonatal sepsis, and mortality. However, not Gram-positive bacteria or genital mycoplasma was directly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adverse pregnancy outcomes occur more commonly in developing countries and are still prevalent in our sub‑region. Microalbuminuria is a marker of endothelial dysfunction and has been proposed as an aetiological factor in the development of some adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre‑eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and pre‑term labour. Aim: The aim is to determine the prevalence of microalbuminuria and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This was a prospective cross‑sectional study with follow‑up amongst women in early pregnancy presenting at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Three hundred and thirty women with singleton pregnancy at gestational age <20 weeks, blood pressure <140/90 mmHg, normal fasting blood sugar and normal renal function were recruited. Those with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, sickle cell anaemia were excluded, multiple pregnancies, urinary tract infection or positive dipstick proteinuria at first contact were excluded. They were recruited consecutively and a structured interviewer‑administered questionnaire was completed. Single‑spot urine analysis for albumin was performed. The women were followed up to the time of delivery and the puerperium and any adverse outcome were documented. Results: The prevalence of microalbuminuria was 58.4%. The maternal and foetal adverse outcomes such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, pre‑mature rupture of membrane, IUGR, preterm birth and stillbirth occurred more amongst the women with microalbuminuria. However, there was no statistically significant association between microalbuminuria and having these adverse outcomes (P > 0.05). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of microalbuminuria amongst healthy pregnant women and pregnancy complications occurred more frequently in women with microalbuminuria than in those without. However, this association was not sufficient to predict adverse outcomes in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]