Difference In Gestation Length Research Articles

Disruption of the SP-A/SP-R210L (MYO18Aα) pathway prolongs gestation and reduces fetal survival during lipopolysaccharide-induced parturition in late gestation.

Prolonged labor can lead to infection, fetal distress, asphyxia, and life-threatening harm to both the mother and the baby. Surfactant protein A (SP-A) was shown to contribute to the maintenance of pregnancy and timing of term labor. SP-A modulates the stoichiometric expression of the SP-R210L and SP-R210S isoforms of the SP-R210 receptor on alveolar macrophages (AMs). Lack of SP-R210L dysregulates macrophage inflammatory responses. We asked whether SP-A alters normal and inflammation-induced parturition through SP-R210 using SP-A- and SP-R210L-deficient mice. Labor and delivery of time-pregnant mice were monitored in real time using a time-lapse infrared camera. Intrauterine injection with either vehicle or Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on embryonic (E) day 18.5 post coitus was used to assess the effect of gene disruption in chorioamnionitis-induced labor. We report that either lack of SP-A or disruption of SP-R210L delays parturition by 0.40 and 0.55 days compared with controls, respectively. LPS induced labor at 0.60, 1.01, 0.40, 1.00, and 1.31 days earlier than PBS controls in wild type (WT), SP-A-deficient, littermate controls, heterozygous, and homozygous SP-R210L-deficient mice, respectively. Lack of SP-A reduced litter size in PBS-treated mice, whereas the total number of pups delivered was similar in all LPS-treated mice. The number of live pups, however, was significantly reduced by 50%-70% in SP-A and SP-R210L-deficient mice compared with controls. Differences in gestational length were not associated with intrauterine growth restriction. The present findings support the novel concept that the SP-A/SP-R210 pathway modulates timely labor and delivery and supports fetal lung barrier integrity during fetal-to-neonatal transition in term pregnancy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY To our knowledge, this study is the first to report that SP-A prevents delay of labor and inflammation-induced stillbirth through the receptor SP-R210L.

Possible involvement of somatotrophic hormones in the postpartum regulation of ovarian activity in mares

In horses, resumption of ovarian function after parturition occurs early and the majority of mares ovulate within two weeks after parturition. Previous research suggests that early postpartum increases in the peripheral concentration of prolactin and somatotrophic hormones are the major stimulus for resumption of ovarian activity and ovulation. In the present study, we investigated if placental tissue may be a source of somatotrophic hormones and thus influence ovarian activity. Ovarian follicular development and concentrations of prolactin, insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF1) and LH were determined in 14 healthy Haflinger mares (9.2±3.8 years). From D15 before until D15 after parturition (pp), transrectal ultrasonography of ovarian activity was performed and blood samples were collected for determination of hormone concentrations (prolactin, IGF1 by ELISA; LH by RIA). All foals were healthy, mature and stayed with their dams. Samples from the allantochorion and amnion were obtained immediately after delivery. The relative abundance of mRNA for IGF1 and the prolactin receptor (PRLR) was analyzed by qPCR. Formalin fixed samples were analyzed for protein expression of IGF1 and PRLR by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis (IBM SPSS 27.0) was done by analysis of variance (for repeated measures) comparing data from mares that ovulated(group ov; n=5) and did not ovulate until D15 pp (group non-ov, n=9). Values are mean ± SD. Mares from group ov foaled later in the year than non-ov mares (day of year 84±29 vs. 50±20, p<0.05), but no differences in gestation length, placental weight or size were detected. Already on D15 before parturition, ovarian follicles <2 cm diameter were present in all mares, but growth to preovulatory size occurred only pp with a higher growth rate in ov mares (day x group p<0.05). Prolactin and IGF1 concentrations increased from D5 before parturition, peaked at D1 pp (ov vs. non-ov: prolactin 13.0±6.3 vs. 7.9±4.4 ng/ml, p<0.05; IGF1 409±71 vs. 350±65 ng/ml, p<0.05) and declined thereafter. The LH concentration increased from D1 pp in group ov (D12 pp: 23.82±15.96 ng/ml) but not in non-ov (D12 pp: 10.82±5.26 ng/ml; day x group p<0.001). There was a high abundance of mRNA and protein for IGF1 and PRLR in placental tissue irrespective of group. In conclusion, ovarian follicles are detectable before foaling, but develop to preovulatory size only pp when prolactin and LH concentrations increase. In agreement with the situation in cattle, IGF1 stimulates ovarian activity in lactating mares. Placental tissue produces IGF1 that may be under the influence of prolactin as suggested by the presence of PRLR in both amnion and allantochorion.

Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of letrozole versus natural cycle frozen embryo transfer of autologous euploid blastocyst.

To investigate the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of letrozole-stimulated frozen embryo transfer (LTZ-FET) cycles compared with natural FET cycles (NC-FET). Our retrospective cohort included all LTZ-FET (n = 161) and NC-FET (n = 575) cycles that transferred a single euploid autologous blastocyst from 2016 to 2020 at Stanford Fertility Center. The LTZ-FET protocol entailed 5mg of daily letrozole for 5days starting on cycle day 2 or 3. Outcomes were compared using absolute standardized differences (ASD), in which a larger ASD signifies a larger difference. Multivariable regression models adjusted for confounders: maternal age, BMI, nulliparity, embryo grade, race, infertility diagnosis, and endometrial thickness. The demographic and clinical characteristics were overall similar. A greater proportion of the letrozole cohort was multiparous, transferred high-graded embryos, and had ovulatory dysfunction. The cohorts had similar pregnancy rates (67.1% LTZ vs 62.1% NC; aOR 1.31, P = 0.21) and live birth rates (60.9% LTZ vs 58.6% NC; aOR 1.17, P = 0.46). LTZ-FET neonates on average were born 5.7days earlier (P < 0.001) and had higher prevalence of prematurity (18.6% vs. 8.0%NC, ASD = 0.32) and low birth weight (10.4% vs. 5.0%, ASD = 0.20). Both cohorts' median gestational ages (38weeks and 1day for LTZ; 39weeks and 0day for NC) were full term. There were similar rates of pregnancy and live birth between LTZ-FET and NC-FET cycles. However, there was a higher prevalence of prematurity and low birth weight among LTZ-FET neonates. Reassuringly, the median gestational age in both cohorts was full term, and while the difference in gestational length of almost 6days does not appear to be clinically significant, this warrants larger studies.

Impact of in utero opioid exposure on newborn outcomes: beyond neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome

Background and objectives Research on in utero opioid exposure impacts has focused on Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS). However, possible impacts on fetal growth and newborn wellbeing have emerged, with inconsistencies likely driven by methodological issues. Our goal was to compare birth outcomes between newborns with prenatal opioid exposure and a matched control group. Methods Participants were identified via manual review of electronic medical records of all deliveries over five years within a regional health system (6 delivery hospitals across 2 states). From over 18,000 births, 300 with prenatal opioid exposure and 300 control newborns matched on exposure, medical, and background factors were included. Additional factors were statistically controlled. Outcomes included pregnancy/delivery complications, newborn size, and newborn health complications. Results Compared to biochemically verified controls, exposed newborns had higher rates of fetal growth restriction, weighed less, had decreased length and head circumference, and had higher rates of respiratory distress, sepsis, and jaundice. No significant differences in gestational length, Apgar scores, or neonatal hypoglycemia were found. Adjusted regression analyses revealed that compared to controls, those exposed had an average 150 g decrease in birth weight, a two-fold increased risk for IUGR (OR = 2.09), a nearly three-fold (OR = 2.80) increased risk for jaundice, a more than seven-fold (OR = 7.40) increased risk for respiratory distress, and a thirty-fold (OR = 30.47) increased risk for sepsis. Conclusions Results suggest significant pregnancy and newborn outcomes beyond NOWS following pregnancy opioid use, informing clinical screening and treatment decisions to enhance health and wellbeing in pregnancy, during the neonatal period, and beyond.

Consequences of nescient mating: Artificial insemination increases cub rejection in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)

Artificial insemination (AI) is a valuable tool for conservation breeding programs as it can promote reproductive success and genetic diversity in species with decreasing populations. However, females that undergo AI do not experience natural mating events, which we term, “nescient mating.” Thus, these females would not be able to assess the quality of their mate through physical, olfactory, or visual cues. Previous research has found that AI can lead to diminished breeding outcomes when compared to natural mating. In this study, we investigated whether fertilization method (natural mating versus AI) affects postpartum behaviors, such as cub rejection and maternal care in female giant pandas. We analyzed data from 202 cubs and 43 mother-cub dyads between 1996 and 2018. We did not find a difference in gestation length, cub weight, or cub survivorship between naturally mated and artificially inseminated females. Compared to naturally inseminated females, artificially mated females were significantly more likely to reject cubs (p = 0.039). Contrary to what we had predicted, maternal care and infant behaviors during the first month did not differ between natural mating and AI groups. Taken together, our results indicate that female giant pandas who experienced nescient mating may have reduced offspring investment, manifest in increased cub rejection. However, the lack of behavioral differences between AI and natural mating groups was encouraging, indicating that once a female accepted a cub to rear, maternal care was adequate to ensure cub survival. Nonetheless, we recommend that conservation breeding programs prioritize natural mating as higher rates of maternal rejection increase the facility and human time cost of cub rearing and also the chances of detrimental downstream effects on offspring adult behaviors in the giant panda.

Service Sire Effects on Body Condition Score, Milk Production, and Rebreeding of Mixed-Aged Dairy Cows Bred to Angus and Hereford Bulls—A Case Study in New Zealand

Beef-breed bulls are used in dairy herds to produce a calf of greater value for finishing than calves sired by dairy bulls. There is limited research about which beef-breed bulls are most appropriate, and whether any negative impact on cow performance in terms of milk production and rebreeding should be considered. The aim of this case study was to compare the body condition score, milk production, and rebreeding performance of mixed-aged dairy cows bred to a selection of Angus and Hereford beef-breed bulls. Body condition score, post-calving live weight, milk production, rebreeding performance, and survival of 952 mixed-aged dairy cows artificially bred to 65 Angus and Hereford bulls were compared. There was no effect of service sire on post-calving live weight, days in milk, milk production, or inter-calving intervals of mixed-aged cows. Service sire had an effect on the calving day due to differences in gestation length (p &lt; 0.001), although this did not translate into an effect on days in milk. A longer gestation length negatively influenced pregnancy rates, and greater birth weight of the calf negatively influenced survival to rebreeding (p &lt; 0.05), indicating the potential for an effect of service sire. Selection of beef-breed service sires for dairy cows should include emphasis on lighter calves and shorter gestation lengths. The general absence of the service sire effect on the parameters measured in this study indicated that any of the service sires used in this experiment would be appropriate for use over dairy cows.

Assessing the impact of group antenatal care on gestational length in Rwanda: A cluster-randomized trial

Research on group antenatal care in low- and middle-income contexts suggests high acceptability and preliminary implementation success. We studied the effect of group antenatal care on gestational age at birth among women in Rwanda, hypothesizing that participation would increase mean gestational length. For this unblinded cluster randomized trial, 36 health centers were pair-matched and randomized; half continued individual antenatal care (control), half implemented group antenatal care (intervention). Women who initiated antenatal care between May 2017 and December 2018 were invited to participate, and included in analyses if they presented before 24 weeks gestation, attended at least two visits, and their birth outcome was obtained. We used a generalized estimating equations model for analysis. In total, 4091 women in 18 control clusters and 4752 women in 18 intervention clusters were included in the analysis. On average, women attended three total antenatal care visits. Gestational length was equivalent in the intervention and control groups (39.3 weeks (SD 1.6) and 39.3 weeks (SD 1.5)). There were no significant differences between groups in secondary outcomes except that more women in control sites attended postnatal care visits (40.1% versus 29.7%, p = 0.003) and more women in intervention sites attended at least three total antenatal care visits (80.7% versus 71.7%, p = 0.003). No harms were observed. Group antenatal care did not result in a difference in gestational length between groups. This may be due to the low intervention dose. We suggest studies of both the effectiveness and costs of higher doses of group antenatal care among women at higher risk of preterm birth. We observed threats to group care due to facility staff shortages; we recommend studies in which antenatal care providers are exclusively allocated to group antenatal care during visits. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03154177.

Effects of Buserelin acetate and semen extension on fertility in rabbit does under artificial insemination

The productivity of rabbit farms can be increased and become more homogeneous through the use of Artificial Insemination (AI). However, this possibility is limited with low conception in artificially inseminated does without ovulation induction. This study aimed at determining the conception rate of rabbit does induced with buserelin acetate and inseminated with extended semen at varied dilution ratio. A total number of Twenty eight multiparous non-lactating rabbit does were randomly allotted into four treatments housed individually in a completely randomised design. Rabbits were used as a teaser for semen collection using an artificial vagina and after semen collection and evaluation; ejaculates from ten bucks with more than 60% motility were pooled and extended. Forty eight hours before the AI, the does were hormonally synchronized (i.m) for oestrus with 20IU PMSG. Does in treatment 1(control) were inseminated with unextended semen without buserelin but injected with normal saline, while does on treatments 2, 3 and 4 were inseminated with extended semen in ratio 1: 1, 1:2 and 1: 3 (semen: extender), respectively and were all intramuscularly induced using 0.8µg of buserelin after insemination. Results showed that some of the does induced with buserelin acetate intramuscularly (treatments 2, 3 and 4) were pregnant, while none of the control rabbits was pregnant. The ratio 1: 1 extended semen (treatment 2) recorded the highest percentage conception (85.71%) followed by treatment 3 (71.43%) and treatment 4 (57.14%). There was significant (P&lt;0.05) difference in gestation length (32.50, 31.00 and 32.75), litter size (4.83, 8.60 and 3.25), live kits at birth (3.50, 6.60 and 1.75) for treatments 2, 3 and 4 respectively and the average litter weight was not significantly different among the treatments. This study suggests that diluting semen in ratio 1: 1 produced highest conception rate with intramuscular administration of 0.8µg buserelin acetate than extending semen in ratios 1: 2 and 1: 3.

Seasonal patterns in fecundability in North America and Denmark: a preconception cohort study.

To what extent does fecundability vary across seasons? After accounting for seasonal patterns in pregnancy planning, we observed higher fecundability in the fall and lower fecundability in the spring, particularly at lower latitudes. In human populations, there are strong seasonal patterns of births that vary across geographic regions and time periods. However, previous studies of seasonality and fecundity are limited because they examine season of birth rather than season of conception and therefore neglect to account for seasonal variation in initiating attempts to conceive or pregnancy loss or differences in gestational length. We conducted a preconception cohort study of 14 331 women residing in North America (June 2013-May 2018: n = 5827) and Denmark (June 2007-May 2018: n = 8504). Participants were attempting to conceive without fertility treatment and had been attempting pregnancy for ≤6 menstrual cycles at enrolment. We collected information on season of each pregnancy attempt using last menstrual period dates over the study period. Pregnancy was reported on female bi-monthly follow-up questionnaires. We fit log-binomial models with trigonometric regression to examine periodic variation in fecundability. We accounted for seasonal variation in initiation of pregnancy attempts by including indicator variables for menstrual cycle of attempt in the regression models. Initiation of pregnancy attempts peaked in September, with stronger seasonality in North America than in Denmark (48 vs. 16% higher probability initiating attempts in September compared with March). After accounting for seasonal variation in initiation of pregnancy attempts, we observed modest seasonal variation in fecundability, with a peak in the late fall and early winter in both cohorts, but stronger peak/low ratios in North America (1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 1.28) than in Denmark (1.08; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.16). When we stratified the North American data by latitude, we observed the strongest seasonal variation in the southern USA (peak/low ratio of 1.45 [95% CI: 1.14, 1.84]), with peak fecundability in late November. We estimated menstrual cycle dates between follow-up questionnaires, which may have introduced exposure misclassification, particularly when women skipped follow-up questionnaires. We were unable to measure seasonally varying factors that may have influenced fecundability, including ambient temperature, vitamin D levels or infectious disease. An understanding of how fecundability varies across seasons could help identify factors that can impair reproductive function. Neglecting to account for seasonal variation in initiation of pregnancy attempts could bias estimates of seasonal patterns in fecundability. This is the first preconception cohort study to examine seasonal variation in fecundability after accounting for seasonality in initiation of pregnancy attempts. Fecundability was highest in the fall and lowest in the spring, with stronger effects in southern latitudes of North America, suggesting that seasonal exposures may affect fecundity. This research was funded by the Eunice K. Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (R21-050264, R01-HD060680, R21-HD072326 and R01-HD086742) and the Danish Medical Research Council (271-07-0338). The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

UTILIZATION OF Moringa oleifera AS A NEW RABBITS FEED. 2- EFFECT OF DIETARY INCLUSION OF Moringa oleifera HAY ON REPRODUCTIVE AND PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF DOE RABBITS

A total number of 36 does of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits with initial body weight 2658± 84 gm and 24 weeks of age were used in this investigation to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of different levels of moringa hay ( leaves+ twigs) as a partial substitute for alfalfa hay on their reproductive and productive performance. The animals were randomly allotted to three experimental groups (12 doe in each). The 1st group was served as a control and fed basal pelleted diet (Diet A) contained 18% alfalfa hay, represents about 14.3 % of the total crude protein of the diet. The 2nd and 3rd groups were fed the same basal diet, but 50 and 75% of alfalfa hay (B and C Diets, respectively) were replaced by moringa hay (leaves+ twigs) on the basis of its contents of protein Conception rate was significantly improved (P < 0.05) in doe rabbits fed Diet C compared with those fed Diet A (control ) or Diet B. Differences in gestation length, litter size at birth, 21 days and at weaning (28 days) and litter weight at 21and 28days among experimental groups were not significant. Litter weight at birth and litter weight gain at all studied ages were insignificantly increased for rabbits fed Diet C compared with those fed the basal diet ( Diet A). Bunny weight at 21 and 28days was insignificantly higher in doe rabbits fed Diet B than those fed Diets A or Diet C. Pre- weaning mortality percentages at all studied ages were similar in all groups. During the 1st, 2nd and 3rd parity, daily and weekly milk yield were insignificantly higher with rabbits fed Diet B or C than those fed the basal diet (control). The differences for daily and weekly milk yield during 1st, 2nd and 3rd weeks were not significant; however, the differences during the 4th week of lactation were significant (P < 0.05). Milk conversion ratio was insignificantly improved with rabbits fed Diets B or C compared to the control during the 3rd and 4th week of lactation. The differences in most doe and offspring traits among the three parities were not significant. However, bunny weight at weaning (28 days) was significantly (P<0.05) increased in the three parities. Milk yield at most stages of lactation insignificantly increased in allparities, except at 1st weekof lactation at which the effect of parity on milk yield was highly significant (P < 0.01). Milk conversion ratio at all stages of lactation insignificantly decreased in allparities. However, the differences in milk conversion ratio were significant (P < 0.05) during the 2nd and 3rd week. Conclusively, the results of the present study demonstrated that Moringa oleifera hay (leaves+ twigs) is good unconventional source of protein for feeding doe rabbits and could be added in the diet at levels up to 13.5% to replace about 75% of alfalfa hay without any adverse effects on reproductive and productive traits of New Zealand White doe rabbits.

Differences in meconium stained amniotic fluid in an Australian population: A retrospective study

BackgroundMeconium stained amniotic fluid commonly occurs postdates ( >40 weeks gestation) indicating fetal maturity. Previous literature indicates that different ethnicities mature at different rates. AimTo compare the rate of meconium stained amniotic fluid of Australian-born and non-Australian born women. MethodsA retrospective correlation study design was implemented, using data collected in the birth outcomes system at one tertiary hospital. Data was collected from all women who gave birth to a term (>/=37 weeks gestation), singleton, liveborn baby between January 1st to December 31st, 2014. Maternal country of birth was used for comparison. Categorical data was analyzed using Chi-Square test for Independence. Continuous variables were assessed for normality, and differences were compared using an Independent t-test or a Mann–Whitney U test. All tests were two-tailed and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results3,041 women were included; 1131 Australian-born and 1910 non-Australian born. Meconium stained amniotic fluid occurred more frequently in non-Australian born women compared to Australian-born women (23.5% vs. 19.8 p=0.02). Their babies were significantly smaller (Mean=3265g, Standard Deviation 463.8 vs Mean=3442g, Standard Deviation 499.2, p<0.001), with no difference in gestational length (Mean=39.4, Standard Deviation 1.28 vs Mean=39.5, Standard Deviation 1.18, p=0.06). Increasing gestational age had the strongest association with meconium stained amniotic fluid; >/=42 weeks gestation occurring 3.52 (95% Confidence Interval: 2.00, 6.22, p=<0.001) more than <40 weeks gestation. ConclusionMaternity health services should record ethnicity and region of birth to provide individualised care as women born overseas often have poorer perinatal outcomes when compared to Australian-born women.

Higher alcohol consumption in early pregnancy or low-to-moderate drinking during pregnancy may affect children's behaviour and development at one year and six months.

It is unclear whether low-to-moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy affects child development. This study examined the effects that a mother's self-reported alcohol consumption had on her pregnancy and her child's birth, behaviour and development. We asked 291 Swedish women to report their alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT); provide data on their pregnancy, labour and neonatal period; and complete a child behaviour and development questionnaire when their child was one year and six months of age. The mothers were separated into four subgroups based on their AUDIT scores. There were no group differences in gestational length, but children were shorter at birth if their mother drank during pregnancy. Mothers with the highest alcohol consumption before pregnancy were generally younger and more likely to smoke, have unplanned pregnancies and have children who displayed behavioural problems than controls who reported abstinence before and during pregnancy. Mothers who drank more during pregnancy than before were more likely to have had abortions and unplanned pregnancies and less likely to breastfeed for more than six months. Our results suggested that low-to-moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy may negatively influence a child's development and behaviour in several ways.

Effect of Farm on Productive and Reproductive Performance in Sows of Prestice Black-pied Pig

The aim of the study was to evaluate productive and reproductive performance of Prestice Black‑Pied sows including losses of piglets from birth to weaning in conditions of two farms. The experiment involved one hundred sows of Prestice Black‑Pied pig from the 1st to the 7th parity (50 from farm A and 50 from farm B). The evaluation of productive parameters revealed a highly statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.001) between gilts of the observed farms in percentage of lean meat. Backfat thickness was 0.19 cm lower in gilts from the farm A, which is a very highly statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.001). The evaluation of reproductive performance showed, that age at the time of the first insemination and farrowing was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in gilts from the farm A compared to gilts from the farm B by 38 days on average. The analysis also indicates that there was no significant difference in length of gestation, total number of piglets and numbers of live-born and reared piglets between the sows of the evaluated farms. A highly statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.01) was found in number of stillborn piglets. Interval length was significantly longer (P ≤ 0.05) in sows from the farm A, by 14.29 days. The evaluation of losses of piglets revealed a significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between the farms in favor of piglets from the farm A.

Relationship between placental surface area and fetal growth rate in artiodactyls and perissodactyls

Abstract Gestation periods in mammals are generally in line with scaling laws. There are several exceptions in which species of relatively similar size and degree of neonatal maturation show a significant difference in gestation length. For example the giraffids have a very long gestation period, compared to bovids of similar size. By using published data about the placental surface area at term, we show that in ungulates this surface area is more tightly correlated to the average fetal growth rate than to fetal and placenta weight. These data suggest that, within one type of placenta, gestation length and placental surface area are associated parameters.

Adverse obstetric outcomes in pregnancies resulting from oocyte donation: a retrospective cohort case study in Sweden.

BackgroundOocyte donation has been associated to gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, placental abnormalities, preterm delivery and increased rate of caesarean delivery while simultaneously being characterized by high rates of primiparity, advanced maternal age and multiple gestation constituting the individual risk of mode of conception difficult to assess. This study aims to explore obstetrical outcomes among relatively young women with optimal health status conceiving singletons with donated versus autologous oocytes (via IVF and spontaneously).MethodsNational retrospective cohort case study involving 76 women conceiving with donated oocytes, 150 nulliparous women without infertility conceiving spontaneously and 63 women conceiving after non-donor IVF. Data on obstetric outcomes were retrieved from the National Birth Medical Register and the medical records of oocyte recipients from the treating University Hospitals of Sweden. Demographic and logistic regression analysis were performed to examine the association of mode of conception and obstetric outcomes.ResultsWomen conceiving with donated oocytes (OD) had a higher risk of hypertensive disorders [adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.84, 95 % CI (1.04–7.81)], oligohydramnios [aOR 12.74, 95 % CI (1.24–130.49)], postpartum hemorrhage [aOR 7.11, 95 % CI (2.02–24.97)] and retained placenta [aOR 6.71, 95 % CI (1.58–28.40)] when compared to women who conceived spontaneously, after adjusting for relevant covariates. Similar trends, though not statistically significant, were noted when comparing OD pregnant women to women who had undergone non-donor IVF. Caesarean delivery [aOR 2.95, 95 % CI (1.52–5.71); aOR 5.20, 95 % CI (2.21–12.22)] and induction of labor [aOR 3.00, 95 % CI (1.39–6.44); aOR 2.80, 95 % CI (1.10–7.08)] occurred more frequently in the OD group, compared to the group conceiving spontaneously and through IVF respectively. No differences in gestational length were noted between the groups. With regard to the indication of OD treatment, higher intervention was observed in women with diminished ovarian reserve but the risk for hypertensive disorders did not differ after adjustment.ConclusionThe selection process of recipients for medically indicated oocyte donation treatment in Sweden seems to be effective in excluding women with severe comorbidities. Nevertheless, oocyte recipients-despite being relatively young and of optimal health status- need careful counseling preconceptionally and closer monitoring prenatally for the development of hypertensive disorders.

Physiological Effects of Aquatic Exercise in Pregnant Women on Bed Rest

ABSTRACTThis pilot study examined the effectiveness of an Aquatic Exercise Program (AEP) provided by an occupational therapist for pregnant women on hospitalized bed rest. Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records of hospitalized pregnant women comparing those who attended an AEP (n = 19) to a control group who received no AEP (n = 12). Statistical tests were used to assess evidence of differences in length of gestation as well as blood pressure and amniotic fluid index (AFI) at discharge. Women who received an AEP had increased AFI and length of gestation compared to the control group. This study supports the use of an AEP as an intervention for pregnant women on prescribed bed rest. Further research is recommended to validate these findings with a larger sample.

Occurrence of bacteria and polymorphonuclear leukocytes in fetal compartments at parturition; relationships with foal and mare health in the peripartum period

This study investigated the relationship of the health of the newborn foal and (1) number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) in the amniotic fluid, (2) bacteria present in the amniotic fluid and the venous umbilical blood, and (3) bacteria present in the uterus of the newly foaled mare. A further aim was to investigate relationships between the bacteriologic findings in the amniotic fluid, umbilical blood, and uterus postpartum. Samples were taken from 50 Standardbred trotter foaling mares from a well-managed stud in Sweden. Parturition was spontaneous in all cases. Length of pregnancy, parturition and postpartum complications, health status of the foal, the time between foaling and the expulsion of the placenta, and the number of postfoaling mares becoming pregnant after insemination were recorded. Amniotic fluid was collected when the amniotic vesicle was clearly visible; it was analyzed for bacteriology and occurrence of PMNLs. Umbilical blood was analyzed for the presence of bacteria and the concentration of serum amyloid A. The uterus of the mare was swabbed for bacteriology 6 to 17 hours postpartum. A blood sample was taken from the foal before administering plasma. The foals were divided into two groups: group 1 required up to 2 hours to rise after birth (≤2 hours; 31 foals) and group 2 required more than two hours (>2 hours; 19 foals). The length of gestation varied between 332 and 356 days; there was no significant difference in gestation length between the two foal groups. Partus and postpartum complications occurred in a significantly higher proportion of mares giving birth to group 2 foals than group 1 foals (P = 0.02), although uterine culture postpartum and the subsequent pregnancy rate per season were not different between the groups. Compromised health status was significantly higher among foals belonging to group 2 than group 1 (P = 0.001). Most of the amniotic samples contained 5% or less PMNLs. Only three samples contained more than 30% PMNLs; group 2 foals had the highest percentage of PMNLs. Bacterial growth was found in both amniotic fluid (57%) and umbilical blood (35%) in mares irrespective of whether their foals were healthy or compromised. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most frequent bacteria. There were no differences in bacterial occurrence in amniotic fluid or in umbilical blood between the two foal groups.

Pregnancy After Bariatric Surgery

Background When other weight loss attempts have failed, bariatric surgery offers a successful alternative for obesity. Since operations are performed during women's reproductive years, the number of pregnant women with prior bariatric surgery is increasing. Bariatric surgery results in restriction of food intake and/or malabsorption leading to weight loss, but may induce a risk for malnutrition and pregnancy complications. Method Systematically conducted review addressing pregnancy after bariatric surgery using the PubMed and Cochrane databases. Main outcome measures Birthweight, gestational age, birth defects, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and mode of delivery. Results We included 17 articles in English, comparing pregnancies in women with prior bariatric surgery to pregnancies in a control group without this. There was considerable heterogeneity in study design and six of the studies included <50 women with bariatric surgery. Eight studies described lower birthweight and lower risk of macrosomia after bariatric surgery, but in six there was no difference. Five studies indicated a higher risk of small-for-gestational age infants, but only compared with non-obese women or severely obese controls. There was no difference in gestational length. Only one study suggested a higher risk of birth defects after surgery. The maternal risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus was lower after bariatric surgery. Results regarding mode of delivery are conflicting. Conclusion Pregnancy after bariatric surgery seems safe but larger studies matching or adjusting for body mass index are needed to improve the surveillance of these pregnancies and to assist in preventing adverse outcomes.

Pregnancy after bariatric surgery – a review of benefits and risks

When other weight loss attempts have failed, bariatric surgery offers a successful alternative for obesity. Since operations are performed during women's reproductive years, the number of pregnant women with prior bariatric surgery is increasing. Bariatric surgery results in restriction of food intake and/or malabsorption leading to weight loss, but may induce a risk for malnutrition and pregnancy complications. Systematically conducted review addressing pregnancy after bariatric surgery using the PubMed and Cochrane databases. Birthweight, gestational age, birth defects, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and mode of delivery. We included 17 articles in English, comparing pregnancies in women with prior bariatric surgery to pregnancies in a control group without this. There was considerable heterogeneity in study design and six of the studies included <50 women with bariatric surgery. Eight studies described lower birthweight and lower risk of macrosomia after bariatric surgery, but in six there was no difference. Five studies indicated a higher risk of small-for-gestational age infants, but only compared with non-obese women or severely obese controls. There was no difference in gestational length. Only one study suggested a higher risk of birth defects after surgery. The maternal risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus was lower after bariatric surgery. Results regarding mode of delivery are conflicting. Pregnancy after bariatric surgery seems safe but larger studies matching or adjusting for body mass index are needed to improve the surveillance of these pregnancies and to assist in preventing adverse outcomes.

Effect of sunitinib on functional reproductive outcome in a rabbit model

To determine the effect of sunitinib (Sutent; SU11248; Pfizer), a US Food and Drug Administration-approved receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor previously shown to reduce de novo pelvic adhesion formation, on reproductive function after surgical uterine abrasion in a rabbit model. Randomized placebo-controlled study. Large animal facility within an academic hospital. Thirty New Zealand White adult female rabbits (2.2-3.0 kg). Administration of 11 doses (one preoperative and 10 postoperative) of oral sunitinib (10 mg/kg/d) or placebo. Effect of short-term postoperative sunitinib administration on reproductive function after surgical uterine abrasion. All animals were impregnated and survived until designated euthanasia. Sunitinib-treated animals had a larger average litter size (7.7 ± 1.9 vs. 5.6 ± 2.7 kits) and offspring viability (7.1 ± 2.7 vs. 3.5 ± 3.2 kits) compared with placebo-treated animals. There was no difference in gestational length or aberration in the maintenance of fertility. There were no gross abnormalities, detectable birth defects, or growth disparity in offspring from sunitinib versus placebo-treated mothers. The adhesion burden identified at euthanasia after parturition was lower in sunitinib compared with placebo-treated animals (N = 10/group). Sunitinib ameliorated adhesion-induced reproductive aberrations after surgical uterine abrasion and may be an efficacious strategy to reduce postoperative pelvic adhesions.