Adverse Fetomaternal Outcomes Research Articles

A retrospective study comparing the results of continuous glucose monitoring to self-blood glucose monitoring for pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus

ABSTRACT Background Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during pregnancy is associated with better glycemic control in women with T1DM. However, no clear benefits have been demonstrated in reducing adverse feto-maternal outcomes in pregnant women with T1DM. Design and Methods This is a retrospective, single-center study of pregnant women with T1DM to evaluate the impact of CGM use on glycemic control and feto-maternal outcomes in pregnant women with T1DM. Results Of 265 women with T1DM, 92 (34.7%) used CGM, and 173 (65.3%) were managed with capillary blood glucose (CBG) monitoring. The mean (SD) age and BMI at the first visit were 29.4 (4.7) years and 27.2 (5.2) kg/m2, respectively. The mean (SD) HbA1c at the first-trimester visit was 63 (1) mmol/mol, and in the last trimester was 51 (1%). There was no difference in the mean changes in HbA1c between the two groups. Women using CGM had lower insulin requirements (1.02 + 0.37 vs. 0.87 + 0.04 units/kg, p = 0.01). The two groups had no significant differences in maternal or fetal outcomes. Conclusion CGM use in pregnant T1DM women is not associated with improved fetomaternal outcomes.

Prevalence and feto-maternal outcomes of subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy among mothers attending a tertiary care hospital of Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India

Background: Pregnancy is a stressful test for the mother’s thyroid function. The frequency of hypothyroidism in pregnant women is high. However, there are no adequate studies to evaluate the adverse effects of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) during pregnancy. Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence of SCH in pregnancy and its adverse feto-maternal outcomes among mothers attending a tertiary care teaching hospital in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: The present study was an institution-based observational descriptive study with a prospective longitudinal design conducted for 1 year among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of the study institution in the first trimester of their pregnancy. The sample size for the present study was calculated to be 200. A consecutive sampling technique was utilized. The enrolled women were evaluated for thyroid status by assessing serum thyroid stimulating hormone and free T4 level. All the enrolled mothers were kept under close follow-up and they were evaluated for the development of any antenatal, intranatal, and postnatal complications. Results: The mean age was found to be 23.1±4.2 years, most of the women were nulliparous (60%). Of the women, 74% were euthyroid, while the prevalence of SCH was found to be 16%. On follow-up till the termination of their pregnancies, mothers suffering from SCH had statistically significantly higher incidence of maternal complications such as hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (P=0.001), abortion (P<0.001), postpartum hemorrhage (P=0.020) and also fetal adverse outcomes, such as intrauterine growth restriction (P=0.018), fetal premature birth (P=0.035), and low birth weight (P=0.004) when compared with euthyroid mothers. Conclusion: The burden of SCH high in the study population, and it was significantly associated with a number of different maternal as well as fetal complications and adverse outcomes.

Evaluating the progression to abnormal thyrotropin in euthyroid preconception women: a population-based study

Background Abnormal preconception thyrotropin levels were associated with fecundability and adverse fetomaternal outcomes, however, little is known regarding the natural change of serum thyrotropin in euthyroid preconception women. Thus, we performed a population-based study to evaluate the progression to abnormal thyrotropin in euthyroid preconception women.Methods This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Free Prepregnancy Checkups Project (NFPCP) collected between 2010 and 2020. Female Han Chinese participants aged 20–49 years who had two repeated NFPCP participations with a time interval of 1.5–3.0 years, confirmed non-pregnant status within this duration, and normal thyrotropin levels during their first participation were included for the analysis of thyrotropin abnormalities during the second NFPCP examination. Data were analyzed between June 1 and October 1, 2023.ResultsThis study included 186,095 euthyroid women of reproductive age (mean ± SD, 26.72 ± 4.70 years) whose preconception thyrotropin levels were between 0.37 and 4.87 mIU/L. The median follow-up time was 2.13 (IQR, 1.85–2.54) years. A total of 8,497 (4.57%) women developed abnormal thyrotropin, including 4,118 (2.21%) subnormal thyrotropin and 4,379 (2.35%) supranormal thyrotropin. Compared with the reference group (thyrotropin 1.01–2.00 mIU/L), the lower baseline thyrotropin group had greater risk of developing subnormal thyrotropin, and the higher baseline thyrotropin group had greater risk of developing supranormal thyrotropin. Moreover, the restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a U-shaped dose–response association of baseline thyrotropin levels or thyrotropin multiples of the median (MOM) levels against risk of subnormal thyrotropin in the follow-up, and a J-shaped dose–response association against risk of supranormal thyrotropin levels in the follow-up. We further found that baseline thyrotropin outside of 1.43–1.93 mIU/L or baseline thyrotropin MOM outside 0.59–1.36 would hava a higher risk of developing of abnormal thyrotropin.ConclusionsBoth low and high baseline thyrotropin were associated with a significantly increased risk of developing abnormal thyrotropin outcomes. The optimal preconception baseline thyrotropin levels may be between 1.43 mIU/L and 1.93 mIU/L or baseline thyrotropin MoM between 0.59 and 1.36 to minimize progression toward abnormal thyrotropin after 1.5–3.0 years. These findings may help with counseling of preconception thyroid function monitoring.

Feto-Maternal Outcome in Preeclampsia and its Association with Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Rajshahi

Background: Obesity is associated with profound metabolic and physiological changes and an established risk factor for the adverse feto-maternal outcome for pregnant women. As the prevalence of obesity increasing day by day among pregnant women and there is a scarcity of related studies in Bangladesh context, this study aimed to find out the fetomaternal outcome in preeclamptic women and its association with maternal body mass index (BMI) in a tertiary care hospital in Rajshahi. Objectives: The aim of the study was to associate the fetomaternal outcome in preeclampsia and its association with maternal body mass index (BMI) in a tertiary care hospital in Rajshahi. Methods: This cross-sectional type of analytical study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH). Singleton pregnant women with preeclampsia who delivered a baby in this Hospital were approached for this study. After ethical clearance, a total of 120 patients were taken as study samples according to selection criteria. Informed written consent was obtained from each patient. All patients were subjected to detailed history taking and thorough physical examination. A structured questionnaire was designed including all the variables of interest. Data were collected through direct interview of the patients at the respective departments by the researcher. Collected data were checked, edited and analyzed using the SPSS-24. Results: The observed maternal outcome was PIH (33%), Gestational diabetes mellitus (20%), Caesarean section (46.7%), prolonged labour (13.3%), wound infection (5%) and 5% had postpartum hemorrhage (5%). PIH, Gestational diabetes mellitus and Caesarean section were significantly higher among overweight or obese patients with preeclampsia (p<.05). So, association of maternal BMI with PIH, gestational diabetes mellitus and Caesarean section was significant (P<.05) but not significant in prolonged labour, wound infection, postpartum .....

Proteinuria among Pregnant Women Admitted to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of a Tertiary Care Centre.

Proteinuria is usually related with preeclampsia during pregnancy, although it can also be caused by other conditions such as renal disease or isolated proteinuria. Proteinuria during pregnancy can result in adverse fetomaternal outcomes. The study aimed to find the prevalence of proteinuria among pregnant women admitted to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of a tertiary care centre. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among pregnant women in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee. Data of 14 April 2022 to 13 April 2023 was collected from 9 June 2023 to 9 September 2023 from medical records. The study included pregnant women aged 18-45 years, who were past 28 weeks of gestation and had a 24-hour urine protein measurement. Pregnant women who had insufficient medical records were excluded from the study. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at a 95% Confidence Interval. Among 3,914 pregnant women, proteinuria was seen in 61 (1.56%) (1.17-1.95, 95% Confidence Interval). The mean proteinuria in the study group was 1.5±2.75 gm/24 hr. In pregnant women with proteinuria, maternal complications were seen in 51 (83.60%) and foetal complications in 34 (55.73%) cases. A total of 47 (77.05%) underwent emergency lower-section caesarean section. The prevalence of proteinuria among pregnant women was found to be similar as compared to studies done in similar settings. preeclampsia; pregnancy complications; proteinuria.

Evaluating the Utility of Liver Transaminases as Predictors of Feto-Maternal Outcome in Lieu of Serum Bile Acids in Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy: A Prospective Observational Study.

Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is a disorder of the second half of pregnancy causing pruritus and abnormal liver function tests (LFT). Incidence in India is 1.2-1.5%. ICP leads to adverse feto-maternal outcomes with early delivery indicated before serum bile acids (SBA) (gold standard) and hepatic transaminases are critically high. With paucity of evidence these levels are not well defined. To determine the association of liver transaminases with pregnancy outcomes in ICP and evaluate critical levels for prediction of adverse outcomes. A prospective observational study was conducted comprising 88 pregnant women with pruritus not associated with rash. After history and examination, LFT and SBA levels were done, treatment given and followed till pregnancy termination to determine the feto-maternal outcome. The mean age of participants was 26.43 ± 3.35 years. The mean SBA, ALT and AST levels were 18.97 ± 10.320 μmol/L, 206.06 ± 45.71units/litre and 175.37 ± 101.088 units/litre respectively. 39.7% of participants were symptomatic for ICP while 38.6% responded to treatment. 34.1% underwent LSCS majorly (43.3%) formeconiumand 23.3% had foetal distress. 33% had preterm delivery. 5.68% of the neonates needed NICU admission and 6.8% had respiratory distress syndrome. The cut off for ALT on ROC curve analysis was 151.5 units/litre with AUC as 0.905, sensitivity and specificity of 89.7 and 70% respectively. ICP leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes. ALT is a promising predictor of adverse outcome and termination of pregnancy can be planned accordingly.

Association of high pre-pregnancy body mass index with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Obesity is an epidemic of the 21st century with its rates doubling in both developed and developing countries. It raises concerns for both maternal and fetal well-being and needs altered care throughout pregnancy and in postnatal period. Raised BMI prior to conception is associated with adverse feto-maternal outcomes. Limited data is available about its association with adverse maternofetal outcome in this region of the world. Our objective was to find out association of high pre-pregnancy BMI with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. This cohort study of 390 patients was conducted in Gynae department of Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar. Study duration was from June 2021 to March 2022. Patients enrolled in third trimester of gestation (≥ 37 weeks) were divided into two groups based on BMI i.e., Group-A with BMI <25 and Group-B with BMI ≥ 25. Both groups were followed until their delivery and discharge. The mean age of 390 women was 28.2 ± 4.8 years. There was statistically significant association between raised pre pregnancy BMI and maternal risks like postpartum hemorrhage (p-0.0001), genital tract (p-0.0002) and perineal trauma (p-0.04). Neonatal risks significantly associated with high pre-pregnancy BMI were macrosomia (p-0.0001), and one minute APGAR score of < 8/10(p- 0.01). Both groups had no statistically significant difference for different modes of delivery i.e normal vaginal/ instrumental delivery and cesarean section (P-value 0.9). Maternal pre-conception BMI of ≥ 25 leads to poor maternal and perinatal outcomes.

The clinical manifestations and pregnancy outcomes of COVID-19 infection at a tertiary care hospital.

To evaluate clinical presentation and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with Covid-19 infection in our local tertiary care from lower middle-income country. A retrospective study was conducted at Obstetrics & Gynecology department, Sheikh Saeed Memorial Hospital (SSMH) of The Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN) from March 2020 to August 2021. Data of 422 admitted pregnant women with COVID-19 infection was retrieved for demographic and clinical information, laboratory tests, pregnancy outcome, and neonatal outcomes on RED-Cap and analyzed on SPSS 26. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate odds ratios (OR) for symptomology with categorical variables and feto-maternal outcome. Of the total 422 pregnant women, 24.4% were symptomatic, 74.7% exhibiting mild symptoms. Largely reported symptoms were fever (71.8%), cough (36.9%) and body ache (35.0%); while odds of symptomatic COVID-19 infection was less in educated pregnant women (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1-0.9) compared to uneducated. Amongst maternal comorbidities, odds of having symptomatic COVID-19 infection were 3.8 times (95% CI 1.1-13.0) in women with chronic hypertension and 5.5 times (95% CI 2.9-10.4) in women with diabetes. Symptomatic women had significantly greater incidence of miscarriages (p= 0.009), PPROM (p= 0.001), preterm birth (p= 0.000), preeclampsia (p= 0.000), placental abruption (p= 0.006) and maternal ICU admission (p= 0.000) than asymptomatic patients. Still birth was higher (6.4% vs 1.3%, p-value= 0.013) in symptomatic group. The odds of having severe maternal outcome were higher (OR=3.5; 95% CI 1.9-6.0) in symptomatic pregnant women. Majority of pregnant women were asymptomatic. Symptomatic women with COVID-19 infection had an increased risk of adverse feto-maternal outcome.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Gestosis Score in Comparison to multi-marker Screening as a Predictor of Preeclampsia at 11-14 Weeks of Pregnancy: A Cohort Study.

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific multisystemic disorder associated with adverse feto-maternal outcomes. Low-dose Aspirin therapy started in early pregnancy in high-risk women, has significantly reduced the chances of developing PE. Therefore, screening and identification of at-risk mothers are crucial. The present study was planned to study the predictive ability of gestosis score in predicting early-onset pre-eclampsia by comparing it with the multi-marker model. One hundred sixteen women, more than 19 years of age, with live singleton pregnancy at 11-13 weeks of gestation were recruited from the antenatal outpatient department and formed the study cohort. After a detailed history, screening for pre-eclampsia was performed both by multi-marker screening and by gestosis score. Diagnostic accuracy was compared for the two methods of screening. The incidence of pre-eclampsia in the present study cohort was 26.7%. The sensitivity of gestosis score >/= 3 was 84.38% (67.21-94.72) and specificity was 93.18% (85.75-97.46 %). The positive predictive value was 81.82% (67.2%-90.81%), and the negative predictive value was 94.25 (87.98 - 97.35%). The diagnostic accuracy of the gestosis score was 90.83%. Gestosis scoring is a potential tool that can be used as a cost-effective screening method for pre-eclampsia at 11-14 weeks of gestation in low-resource settings. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of the gestosis score is comparable to multi-marker screening using maternal factors, MAP, Uterine artery PI, PAPP-A, and PlGF.

Early treatment will prevent feto-maternal complications in thyroid disorders during pregnancy: A prospective study.

Associations between adverse maternal complications and fetal outcomes are known entity in thyroid disorders during pregnancy. Thus, prompt identification of thyroid disorders and timely initiation of treatment is essential. Universal screening and early treatment of pregnant women for thyroid disorder should be considered especially in a resource-limited country like India with a high prevalence of undiagnosed thyroid disorders and adverse feto-maternal outcomes. Early treatment will prevent feto-maternal complications in thyroid disorders in pregnant females visiting outpatient department in tertiary care hospital in rural settings. This study was conducted in a tertiary care rural-based medical college with participation from departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medicine, and ENT. Expectant mothers in first trimester who had urine pregnancy test positive in outpatient clinic were included after a written informed consent. Detailed history and examination was done. TSH was done if abnormal-FT3 and FT4 were done. All thyroid disorders were treated according to American Thyroid Association (ATA) 2017 guideline. All pregnancies were followed up for maternal complications and fetal outcomes. Data from the performa were entered in Office Excel and analysis was performed using STATA (14.2). Descriptive statistics (mean [standard deviation], Frequency [%], etc.) were used to depict profile of study participants, prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, and outcome measures. Chi-square test was employed to assess the association between thyroid dysfunction and various maternal and fetal outcomes. A P value less than. 05 was considered statistically significant. Of 350 pregnant females, 83 (23.5%) pregnant females had thyroid disorder. Of which, 33 (9.4%) had subclinical hypothyroidism, 37 (10.5%) had overt hypothyroidism, 11 (3.1%) had subclinical hyperthyroidism, and two (0.5%) had hyperthyroidism. The prevalence of hypothyroidism in pregnancy increases with increasing age (P value. 001) and not associated with parity, abortion, and consumption of iodized salt. Total patients with feto-maternal outcome follow-up were 241. Pre-eclampsia (P value. 004) was a significant complication in hypothyroid mothers. There was no significant difference in the rate of cesarean section and preterm delivery in hypothyroid and euthyroid mothers. Neonatal outcomes showed more trends of abortion, fetal demise, and IUFD in the hypothyroid group, although not statistically significant. (P value. 07). Due to the high prevalence of thyroid disorders during pregnancy, universal screening of thyroid disorders should be done in early pregnancy instead of high-risk screening. Early detection and early treatment in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy help to prevent maternal and fetal complications of thyroid disorders in pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia is to be monitored in treated pregnant females with hypothyroidism.

Primiparity at an Advanced Age: Emerging Pattern Needing Courtesy to Achieve SDG Maternal Health Targets.

Primiparity at an advanced age, which means having a first birth at age 35 years and beyond, is a recent emerging phenomenon in low- and middle-income countries that significantly affects maternal and child health. However, this evolving phenomenon has not been given due attention as many countries still deal with health-related issues during early-age pregnancies. This paper describes the emerging trend of primiparity during advanced age, focusing on low- and middle-income countries, elaborates on the linked adverse feto-maternal outcomes, and outlines potential interventions to bring the scenario to policymakers' and practitioners' attention.

Maternal hypertensive traits and adverse outcome in pregnancy: a Mendelian randomization study.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are associated with adverse feto-maternal outcomes. Existing evidence is mostly limited to observational studies, which are liable to confounding and bias. This study investigated the causal relevance of component hypertensive indices on multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes using Mendelian randomization. Uncorrelated (r2 < 0.001) genome-wide significant (P < 5 × 10-8) single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with SBP, DBP and pulse pressure (PP) were selected as instrumental variables. Genetic association estimates for outcomes of preeclampsia or eclampsia, preterm birth, placental abruption and hemorrhage in early pregnancy were extracted from summary statistics of genome-wide association studies in the FinnGen cohort. Two-sample, inverse-variance weighted Mendelian randomization formed the primary analysis method. Odds ratios (OR) are presented per-10 mmHg higher genetically predicted hypertensive index. Higher genetically predicted SBP were associated with higher odds of preeclampsia or eclampsia [OR 1.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.68-1.96, P = 5.45 × 10-49], preterm birth (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.16, P = 0.005) and placental abruption (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.05-1.68, P = 0.016). Higher genetically-predicted DBP was associated with preeclampsia or eclampsia (OR 2.54, 95% CI 2.21-2.92, P = 5.35 × 10-40). Higher genetically predicted PP was associated with preeclampsia or eclampsia (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.47-1.92, P = 1.9 × 10-14) and preterm birth (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.06-1.30, P = 0.002). This study provides genetic evidence to support causal associations of SBP, DBP and PP on multiple adverse outcomes of pregnancy. SBP and PP were associated with the broadest range of adverse outcomes, suggesting that optimized management of blood pressure, particularly SBP, is a key priority to improve feto-maternal health.

Comparison of Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India (DIPSI) and WHO criteria for diagnosis of gestational diabetes by assessment of fetomaternal outcomes.

To evaluate fetomaternal outcomes in women who are normoglycemic by Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India (DIPSI) but have gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) by WHO criteria versus those who are normoglycemic by both DIPSI and WHO criteria. This was a prospective, cohort study. A total of 635 women participated. They underwent a 2-h non-fasting oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and results were interpreted by DIPSI. Out of 635 women, 52 were lost to follow up and 33 were diagnosed as GDM by DIPSI and excluded from the study. The remaining 550 women, after 72 h from the first test, underwent a 75-g fasting-OGTT and results were interpreted using WHO 2013 criteria. Results of the second test were blinded till delivery. The 550 women were followed for fetomaternal outcomes. Participants with normal DIPSI and normal WHO 2013 OGTT were labeled group 1. Participants with normal DIPSI but abnormal WHO 2013 OGTT were labeled group 2. Fetomaternal outcomes were compared between these groups. Occurrence of GDM by DIPSI was 5.1%, by WHO 2013 criteria it was 10.5%. Composite fetomaternal outcomes occurred more commonly in women with a normal DIPSI but an abnormal WHO 2013 test. Out of 550 women, 492 had normal DIPSI and normal WHO 2013 test. Out of this 492, 116 (23.6%) women had adverse fetomaternal outcomes. Fifty-eight women out of 550 had a normal DIPSI but an abnormal WHO 2013 test. Thirty-seven (63.8%) women out of 58 had adverse fetomaternal outcomes. We found statistically significant association between adverse fetomaternal outcome and GDM by WHO 2013 test (with normal DIPSI test). WHO 2013 has superior diagnostic value compared with DIPSI criteria for diagnosis of GDM.

Evaluation of Pregnancy Outcome in Women with Rheumatic Mitral Valve Stenosis

Background and Aims: Rheumatic heart disease is still one of the most common heart lesion in developing countries. The maternal and fetal hazards increase with the severity of Mitral stenosis. This study was aimed to determine the fetomaternal outcome in women with mitral stenosis during pregnancy. Methods: This was descriptive cross-sectional study which included all pregnant patients with isolated rheumatic mitral valve stenosis. Major adverse outcomes studied were cardiac failure, thromboembolic event, admission in cardiac care or intensive care unit, atrial fibrillation, endocarditis, pulmonary hypertension and cardiac death. Results: Out of 3194 pregnant women, 31 had mitral stenosis. Their mean age was 27 years, mean mitral valve area 1.43cm2 and majority were primigravida (61.29%). Among them, symptomatic cardiac failure was present in 6.66%, 30% and 66.66% of mild, moderate and severe mitral stenosis respectively. The chances of cardiac failure, atrial fibrillation, preterm delivery and small for gestational age babies was high in all patients without having percutaneous trans-luminal mitral commissurotomy than those who underwent the procedure for moderate to severe mitral stenosis during pregnancy. Conclusion: There were high chances of adverse fetomaternal outcome in pregnant women with mitral stenosis. Cardiac failure was found to be increased with the severity of mitral stenosis. PTMC during pregnancy resulted in decreased cardiac failure, atrial fibrillation, preterm delivery and small for gestational age babies.

Effect of Meconium Stained Liquor on Mode of Delivery and Fetomaternal Outcome at Term

Background: Meconium-stained amniotic fluid is a major reason for concern for both obstetricians and pediatricians since it raises the risk of birth hypoxia, maternal-asphyxia syndrome, and hospitalizations to the neonatal intensive care unit. Objective: To find the frequency of meconium stained liquor in females presenting in labor at term and to compare the frequency of adverse feto-maternal outcome with or without meconium stained liquor in females presenting in labor at term. Materials &amp; Methods Study Design: Descriptive study SETTING: Department of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology, Fatima Memorial Hospital Lahore Duration: Six months i.e. 15-12-2020 to 15-6-2021 Data Collection Procedure: A total of 175 females fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included. Then females were followed up in labor room. If meconium stained liquor was observed, then it was noted and female were divided in two groups i.e. with meconium stained liquor and without meconium stained liquor. Mode of delivery was noted. Apgar score was noted and labeled as poor if &lt;7 at 5 minutes. Birth asphyxia and need for NICU admission was noted. Than all these patients were followed up in gynecology wards for 3 days, neonatal mortality was noted, if occurred. Results: In this study frequency of meconium stained liquor in females presenting in labor at term was 51(29.1%). Comparison of feto-maternal outcome in women with and without meconium stained liquor showed that C-section rate (37.3% vs. 18.5%, p-value=0.008), Poor Apgar score (7.8% vs. 1.6%, p-value=0.040), NICU admission (13.7% vs. 3.2%, p-value=0.009), Birth Asphyxia (19.6% vs. 4%, p-value=0.001) and early neonatal mortality (13.7% vs. 3.2%, p-value=0.009) was significantly higher among women with meconium stained liquor. Conclusion: Keeping in mind the results of this study it can be concluded that positive meconium stained liquor had a significantly impact on maternal as well as neonatal outcome. Keywords: Meconium, Stained liquor, C-section, Birth Asphyxia, NICU, Mortality

Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is diagnosed by the presence of a 10*5 colony-forming units (CFU) in the urine without any urinary symptoms. It commonly occurs in pregnancy with the incidence ranging from 2-10%. It poses a risk of progressing into pyelonephritis in pregnancy. Adverse fetal outcomes include preterm labor, neonatal sepsis, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and neonatal death. Anatomical and physiological changes during pregnancy make pregnant women more vulnerable to ASB and subsequently symptomatic UTI. E coli is the commonest organism involved in ASB, followed by Klebsilla and Enterobactericiae. Evidence suggests that importance of routine screening for ASB in early pregnancy to avoid adverse fetomaternal outcomes. Reduced adverse outcomes were noted with prompt antibiotic treatment for ASB compared to untreated pregnant women with ASB. Urine culture remains as the gold standard method to diagnose ASB in pregnancy. Using urine culture as a routine screening method in Sri Lanka is limited due to financial restrictions.

Uterine artery Doppler screening in 18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy for prediction of adverse maternal outcome

Background: Uterine artery Doppler velocimetry (UADV) analysis has been extensively studied in the second trimester of pregnancy as a predictive investigation for the future development of adverse feto-maternal outcome. This study was designed to assess the association between findings of uterine artery Doppler velocimetry with maternal outcome. Methods: This was a prospective observational study among the pregnant women attending the inpatient and outpatient departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM), Segunbagicha, Dhaka, from July 2021 to December 2021. A total of 31 women with singleton pregnancy were enrolled in this study at their 18-24 weeks of gestation. After obtaining informed written consent, data were collected from patients on variables of interest using a semistructured questionnaire. All the respondents underwent uterine artery Doppler velocimetry at 18 to and 24 weeks of gestation and were followed up to observe its relationship with feto-maternal outcome. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done using SPSS v.21. Results: More than half (51.6%) of the subjects belonged to 30 years and above. The mean age was found 29.71±4.8 years with ranged from 21 to 40 years. Most (96.8%) of the subjects had diabetes mellitus and only 32.3% subjects had hypertension. More than half (54.8%) had adequate diastolic flow and 32.3% subjects had diastolic notch. Majority (64.3%) of the respondents with decreased diastolic flow had preeclampsia. Majority (70.0%) of the respondents with diastolic notch also developed preeclampsia. All these findings were statistically significant (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, pregnant women who have normal UADV finding at their 2nd trimester possess less chance of development of adverse maternal outcome. BIRDEM Med J 2023; 13(2): 92-97

Thoracic organ transplantation and pregnancy outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pre-conceptual comorbidities, an inherent risk of graft loss, rejection during pregnancy, and the postpartum period in women with thoracic lung transplant may predispose them to increased risk of adverse feto-maternal outcomes. The study aimed to systematically analyze and assess the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with thoracic organ transplant. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane library were searched for publication between January 1990 and June 2020. Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs critical appraisal tool for case series. The primary outcomes included maternal mortality and pregnancy loss. The secondary outcomes were maternal complications, neonatal complications, and adverse birth outcomes. The analysis was performed using the DerSimonian-Laird random effects model. Eleven studies captured data from 275 parturient with thoracic organ transplant describing 400 pregnancies. The primary outcomes included maternal mortality {pooled incidence (95% confidence interval) 4.2 (2.5-7.1) at 1year and 19.5 (15.3-24.5) during follow-up}. Pooled estimates yielded 10.1% (5.6-17.5) and 21.8% (10.9-38.8) risk of rejection and graft dysfunction during and after pregnancy, respectively. Although 67% (60.2-73.2) of pregnancies resulted in live birth, total pregnancy loss and neonatal death occurred in 33.5% (26.7-40.9) and 2.8% (1.4-5.6), respectively. Prematurity and low birth weight were reported in 45.1% (38.5-51.9) and 42.7% (32.8-53.2), respectively. Despite pregnancies resulting in nearly 2/3rd of live births, high incidence of pregnancy loss, prematurity and low birth weight remain a cause of concern. Focused pre-conceptual counseling to avoid unplanned pregnancy, especially in women with transplant-related organ dysfunctions and complications, is vital to improve pregnancy outcomes. CRD42020164020.

Mpox in pregnancy: Management, risks and challenges in Africa and lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Data on mpox in pregnancy are currently limited. Historically, only 65 cases in pregnancy have been reported globally since mpox was discovered in 1958. This includes 59 cases in the current outbreak. Vertical transmission was confirmed in one patient. Pregnant women are at high risk of severe disease owing to immunological and hormonal changes that increase susceptibility to infections in pregnancy. African women appear to be at higher risk of mpox infection and adverse outcomes in pregnancy for epidemiological and immunologic reasons, in addition to the background high rates of adverse feto-maternal outcomes in the region. This risk is potentially heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the possibility of mpox virus exportation/importation as a result of the lifting of movement restrictions and trans-border travels between countries affected by the current outbreak. Furthermore, coinfection with mpox and COVID-19 in pregnancy is possible, and the clinical features of both conditions may overlap. Challenges of diagnosis and management of mpox in pregnancy in Africa include patients concealing their travel history from healthcare providers and absconding from/evading isolation after diagnosis, shortage of personal protective equipment and polymerase chain reaction testing facilities for diagnosis, vaccine hesitancy/resistance, and poor disease notification systems. There is a need for local, regional and global support to strengthen the capacity of African countries to address these challenges and potentially reduce the disease burden among pregnant women in the continent.

Outcomes of pregnant women exposed to Sotrovimab for the treatment of COVID-19 in the BA.1 Omicron predominant era (PRESTO)

BackgroundSotrovimab, a monoclonal antibody with efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 including certain Omicron variants, has been used in treatment of mild-moderate COVID-19. Limited data exists regarding its use in pregnant women.MethodsElectronic medical record review of pregnant COVID-19 patients treated with sotrovimab from 12/30/21 − 1/31/22 (Yale New Haven Health Hospital System [YNHHS]) was performed. Included were pregnant individuals ≥ 12 years, weighing ≥ 40 kg, with positive SARS-CoV-2 test (within 10 days). Those receiving care outside YNHHS or receiving other SARS-CoV-2 treatment were excluded. We assessed demographics, medical history, and Monoclonal Antibody Screening Score (MASS). The primary composite clinical outcome assessed included emergency department (ED) visit < 24 h, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and/or death within 29 days of sotrovimab. Secondarily, adverse feto-maternal outcomes and events for neonates were assessed at birth or through the end of the study period, which was 8/15/22.ResultsAmong 22 subjects, median age was 32 years and body mass index was 27 kg/m2. 63% were Caucasian, 9% Hispanic, 14% African-American, and 9% Asian. 9% had diabetes and sickle cell disease. 5% had well-controlled HIV. 18%, 46%, and 36% received sotrovimab in trimester 1, 2, and 3, respectively. No infusion/allergic reactions occurred. MASS values were < 4. Only 12/22 (55%) received complete primary vaccination (46% mRNA-1273; 46% BNT162b2; 8% JNJ-78,436,735); none received a booster.ConclusionsPregnant COVID-19 patients receiving sotrovimab at our center tolerated it well with good clinical outcomes. Pregnancy and neonatal complications did not appear sotrovimab-related. Though a limited sample, our data helps elucidate the safety and tolerability of sotrovimab in pregnant women.