Intrapartum Factors Research Articles

Rebozo and advanced maternal postures: A promising set of intrapartum interventions to reduce persistent occiput posterior position of the fetal head.

Spinning Babies® procedures and the Rebozo technique have been recently implemented as additional interventions in laboring women with a fetus in occiput posterior position (OPP) to favor the rotation to an anterior position, which improve birth experience and health outcomes. Our study aimed to compare the probability of occurrence of persistent OPP (POPP) of the fetal head at the second stage of labor between retrospective and prospective cohorts and to assess associated sociodemographic, obstetric and intrapartum factors. We conducted a combined prospective and retrospective cohort study including 1500 women giving birth in 2017 (retrospective cohort) and 779 between 15 May and 15 December 2023 (prospective cohort). Each cohort was divided into two sub-cohorts depending on presence of OPP. Primary outcomes were compared the probability of occurrence of POPP in the two OPP sub-cohorts by a log binomial regression and logistic regression. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Data analysis was performed using Stata/MP18.0. The proportion of OPP at the onset of labor was similar between the two cohorts (34.9% vs 35.1%). The probability of occurrence of POPP was significantly lower in the prospective OPP sub-cohort (27.7%, n=65/235) compared to the retrospective OPP sub-cohort (35.8%, n=154/430) (risk difference, RD= -0.081; 95% CI: -0.15 - -0.008; p=0.031). In the retrospective OPP sub-cohort, maternal age ≥35 years (RD=0.096; 95% CI: 0.001-0.190, p=0.044) and nulliparity (RD= -0.100; 95% CI: -0.190 - -0.001, p=0.036) were significantly associated with the probability of POPP. Our findings suggest a potential benefit of a set of interventions combining Spinning Babies® and the Rebozo technique in decreasing the probability of POPP.

Magnitude and Determinants of Postpartum Hemorrhage in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Maternal mortality remains a major challenge in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), accounting for 70% of world's maternal deaths. Hemorrhage is the leading direct cause of maternal mortality worldwide, with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) responsible for more than two-thirds of hemorrhage-related deaths. This systematic review and meta-analysis integrated data from studies conducted in SSA to provide an accurate estimation of the prevalence of PPH and to identify regional risk variables. Methods: We conducted a search across multiple databases for peer-reviewed articles published between 2013 and 2023. This study included quantitative research employing cross-sectional, case-control, or cohort designs, regardless of sample size, and published in English. This review excluded literature reviews, meta-syntheses, qualitative studies, editorials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. We used MetaXL to estimate the pooled magnitude of PPH in SSA, and employed the Q test, I2 statistic, and funnel plots to assess statistical heterogeneity. Furthermore, we used MetaXL to perform subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Finally, we used IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows (Version 29.0.2.0 Armonk, NY, USA), to estimate the pooled effect size of the factors associated with PPH. Results: 26 methodologically rigorous articles were included in this review and meta-analysis. The pooled magnitude of PPH in SSA was 8.6%. The studies exhibited significant heterogeneity. Individual factors associated with PPH include the woman's age (crude odds ratio [OR] = 4.37, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 3.03–6.29), place of residence (OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.51–2.82), and parity (OR = 3.13, 95% CI = 1.38–7.11). Antenatal factors include antenatal care (ANC) attendance (OR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.12–10.05), antepartum hemorrhage (APH) (OR = 6.83, 95% CI = 3.64–12.80), and twin pregnancy (OR = 8.25, 95% CI = 3.80–17.92). Intrapartum factors include induction of labor (OR = 4.39, 95% CI = 2.01–9.61), and mode of delivery (OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.80–3.78). Postpartum factors include previous history of PPH (OR = 10.86, 95% CI = 3.71–31.84), and oxytocin use after delivery (OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.09–0.32). Conclusions: The pooled magnitude of PPH in SSA in this study was considerably higher than that in other regions. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen strategies aimed at improving ANC attendance in SSA to ultimately reduce PPH. Additionally, close monitoring of women with risk factors for PPH and the careful use of oxytocin for labor induction are strategies that can also be used to reduce PPH in SSA.

Delivery room resuscitation and short-term outcomes in very preterm infants: a multicenter cross-sectional study in China.

To explore the risk factors of delivery room (DR) resuscitation and assess the association of DR resuscitation with neonatal outcomes in very preterm infants (VPIs). A multicenter retrospective cross-sectional study included VPIs with gestational age (GA) <32 weeks born between January, 2022 and June, 2023 and admitted to neonatal intensive care units of six tertiary hospitals in Shenzhen within 24 h after birth. They were divided into routine care group, positive-pressure ventilation (PPV) group, and endotracheal intubation (ETT) group based on the highest intensity of resuscitation received at birth. The association of antepartum and intrapartum risk factors and short-term outcomes with the intensity of DR resuscitation was evaluated. Of 683 infants included in this study, 170 (24.9%) received routine care, 260 (38.1%) received bag and mask ventilation or T-piece ventilation and 253 (37%) received ETT. Among the antepartum and intrapartum factors, exposure to antenatal steroids (ANS) decreased the likelihood of ETT. Increasing GA decreased the likelihood of receiving a higher level of DR resuscitation. Among the neonatal outcomes, increasing intensity of DR resuscitation was associated with a raise in the risk of Bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Higher levels of DR resuscitation were associated with the risk of early-onset sepsis. ETT was significantly associated with an increased risk of death. Among VPIs, low GA and no ANS use increased the risk of high-intensity DR resuscitation interventions; and those who receiving ETT were associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes.

Revolutionizing Postpartum Hemorrhage Prediction with Insights from Iraq

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a severe complication affecting women with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, yet predictive models for PPH in this population remain underdeveloped. Specific Background: Existing studies have not adequately addressed the combined influence of antepartum and intrapartum factors on the predictability of PPH. Knowledge Gap: There is a lack of comprehensive models integrating both antepartum and intrapartum variables to predict PPH risk in women with gestational hypertension or mild preeclampsia. Aims: The study investigates the predictability of preeclampsia (PPH) in women with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia at term using logistic regression models incorporating both antepartum and intrapartum factors. Methods: The study, conducted in Karbala, Iraq, involved 1252 women with hypertension or preeclampsia, developed two logistic regression models, and assessed their predictive efficacy using receiver operating characteristic analysis and calibration techniques. Results: A study found that 168 participants (10.4%) experienced preterm pregnancies, with antepartum predictors including maternal age, pre-pregnancy BMI, and preeclampsia, and intrapartum factors like gestational age and labor duration. Novelty: The study introduces a novel predictive model for Pregnancy-Positive Hypertension (PPH) that integrates antepartum and intrapartum variables for risk assessment in high-risk populations. Implications: The study suggests that combining antepartum and intrapartum variables can improve risk stratification and preventive measures, requiring further refinement for improved maternal care outcomes. Highlights: Antepartum and intrapartum variables enhance PPH prediction accuracy. Model B outperforms antepartum-only model in predicting PPH. Results stress need for improved risk stratification and prevention strategies. Keywords: postpartum hemorrhage, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, predictive modeling, logistic regression

An international perspective on young stroke incidence and risk factors: a scoping review

BackgroundStroke among younger age groups is increasing globally. While there is a focus on research conducted on people under 65 years who have had a stroke, there is a paucity of data on the incidence and risk factors of stroke among younger people (≤ 30 years). This scoping review examines evidence on incidence and risk factors for perinatal, paediatric and young adult stroke globally.MethodsThe review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute’s scoping review methodology. A systematic search was conducted on 23rd March 2022 across Medline Ovid, Embase, PsycINFO and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). The eligibility criteria included all study designs providing information on the incidence and risk factors of stroke among young people (≤ 30 years) in the last ten years.ResultsA total of 5750 articles were identified. After screening, 471 articles (224 cohort studies (47.6%), 164 case studies/case series (34.8%), 35 reviews (7.4%), 30 case-control (6.4%) and 18 combinations of designs (3.8%) were included. There was data from 50 different countries, 199 studies were from high-income countries, upper and middle income (n = 38), lower middle-income (n = 39), low-income (n = 3) countries, international study (n = 7) and a further 185 articles did not state the country of research. Most of the studies (63%) focused on risk factors while incidence constituted 37%. Incidence data were reported heterogeneously across studies, leading to an inability to synthesise data. The three most frequently reported risk factors for perinatal stroke were infections, cardiac conditions, and intrapartum factors. Vasculopathies, infection and cardiac conditions accounted for most reported risk factors for paediatric stroke, while chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, vasculopathies and cardiac conditions accounted for the most reported risk factors among young adults.ConclusionThis review has highlighted different stroke risk factors for each age cohort of people under 30 years. The low number of epidemiological studies suggests that further research of this type is needed to fully understand the incidence and risk factors in young stroke. A standardised reporting of age groupings of incidence data is imperative to enable the comparison of data from different geographical locations.

Risk Factors for Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke: A Machine Learning Approach.

Perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) is a focal vascular brain injury presumed to occur between the fetal period and the first 28 days of life. It is the leading cause of hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Multiple maternal, intrapartum, delivery, and fetal factors have been associated with PAIS, but studies are limited by modest sample sizes and complex interactions between factors. Machine learning approaches use large and complex data sets to enable unbiased identification of clinical predictors but have not yet been applied to PAIS. We combined large PAIS data sets and used machine learning methods to identify clinical PAIS factors and compare this data-driven approach with previously described literature-driven clinical prediction models. Common data elements from 3 registries with patients with PAIS, the Alberta Perinatal Stroke Project, Canadian Cerebral Palsy Registry, International Pediatric Stroke Study, and a longitudinal cohort of healthy controls (Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition Study), were used to identify potential predictors of PAIS. Inclusion criteria were term birth and idiopathic PAIS (absence of primary causative medical condition). Data including maternal/pregnancy, intrapartum, and neonatal factors were collected between January 2003 and March 2020. Common data elements were entered into a validated random forest machine learning pipeline to identify the highest predictive features and develop a predictive model. Univariable analyses were completed post hoc to assess the relationship between each predictor and outcome. A machine learning model was developed using data from 2,571 neonates, including 527 cases (20%) and 2,044 controls (80%). With a mean of 21 features selected, the random forest machine learning approach predicted the outcome with approximately 86.5% balanced accuracy. Factors that were selected a priori through literature-driven variable selection that were also identified as most important by the machine learning model were maternal age, recreational substance exposure, tobacco exposure, intrapartum maternal fever, and low Apgar score at 5 minutes. Additional variables identified through machine learning included in utero alcohol exposure, infertility, miscarriage, primigravida, meconium, spontaneous vaginal delivery, neonatal head circumference, and 1-minute Apgar score. Overall, the machine learning model performed better (area under the curve [AUC] 0.93) than the literature-driven model (AUC 0.73). Machine learning may be an alternative, unbiased method to identify clinical predictors associated with PAIS. Identification of previously suggested and novel clinical factors requires cautious interpretation but supports the multifactorial nature of PAIS pathophysiology. Our results suggest that identification of neonates at risk of PAIS is possible.

Association of Maternal Height with Mode of Delivery and Perinatal Outcome

Background: Maternal height has been for long a contributory anthropometric factor that can determine the obstetric outcome. There is always a need of a consistent, reliable, and simple risk indicator which is easy to use for preventing unnecessary complications in a country like India where often antenatal care is provided by dais in rural areas. The background of this research aims to ascertain the relationship between maternal height and mode of delivery based on other intrapartum factors which influence labor and consequent maternal and neonatal outcome. Materials and Methods: All primigravidae at term gestation (&gt;37 weeks) with cephalic presentation on admission to labor suite with no other comorbidities were recruited in the study. Their mode of delivery, maternal outcome, along with neonatal outcome was documented. Results: Out of the 680 patients, 104 patients are considered for the short-stature group (15.29%) who were &lt;150 cm in height. Other group comprised patients who were &gt;150 cm in height, a total of 576 (84.71%). There was a higher incidence of induced labor in the study group (66.35%) and emergency lower-segment cesarean section done due to cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) (60%) was also higher among the short-stature group. The incidence of normal labor (32.99%) was higher in the tall-stature group. Conclusion: Short height (&lt;150 cm) is an independent risk factor for cesarean delivery due to CPD. Statistical correlation was found between mothers of short stature and babies being born with low birth weight. As labor is influenced by multiple factors, it is fair enough to give a trial of labor for short primigravidae except in uncommon circumstances.

First and Second Stage Risk Factors Associated with Perineal Lacerations.

To determine intrapartum factors associated with perineal laceration at delivery. This was a planned secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized clinical trial of delayed versus immediate pushing among term nulliparous women in labor with neuraxial analgesia conducted in the United States. Intrapartum characteristics were extracted from the medical charts. The primary outcome was perineal laceration, defined as second degree or above, characterized at delivery in women participating in longer term pelvic floor assessments post-delivery. Multivariable logistic regression was used to refine risk estimates while adjusting for randomization group, birth weight, and maternal age. Among the 941 women participating in the pelvic floor follow-up, 40.6% experienced a perineal laceration. No first stage labor characteristics were associated with perineal laceration, including type of labor or length of first stage. Receiving an amnioinfusion appeared protective of perineal laceration (adjusted odds ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval 0.26-0.91; P = 0.01). Second stage labor characteristics associated with injury were length of stage (2.01h vs. 1.50h; adjusted odds ratio, 1.36; 95% confidence interval 1.18-1.57; P < 0.01) and a prolonged second stage (adjusted odds ratio, 1.64; 95% confidence interval 1.06-2.56; P < 0.01). Operative vaginal delivery was strongly associated with perineal laceration (adjusted odds ratio, 3.57; 95% confidence interval 1.85-6.90; P < 0.01). Operative vaginal delivery is a modifiable risk factor associated with an increased risk of perineal laceration. Amnioinfusion appeared protective against injury, which could reflect a spurious finding, but may also represent true risk reduction similar to the mechanism of warm perineal compress.

Particular features of labor activity at the presence of inflammation of the uterine layers and placental membranes

Research objectives: to analyze the association between the various abnormalities of the labor activity and inflammatory changes of the placental, fetal membranes, and uterine layers.Materials and methods. A prospective cohort study of 382 patients with singleton pregnancies at 28–42 weeks' gestation who underwent cesarean section for abnormal uterine contractions and other complications was conducted. The patients were divided into 3 observation groups: 168 women with hypotonic labor (HL), 70 women with hypertonic uterine dysfunction (HUD) and 144 women operated on for various indications (control group). The development of the inflammation of the decidua, myometrium, chorioamniotic membranes and umbilical cord in different types of labor activity abnormalities were studied. Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-squared test, and logistic regression. Results. In the control group on the eve of the labor the lower uterine segments' polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages infiltration of mild grade were detected in 73.6 and 59.7% cases accordingly.The strength of the association of uterine layers, placental and fetal membranes inflammation with the HUD was: for the deciduitis – adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.6, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4–4.8; for the myometritis – aOR: 0.7, 95% CI: 0.3–2.4; for the histological chorioamnionitis (hCAM) – aOR: 4.5, 95% CI: 3.4–12.1; for the funisitis – aOR: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.3–10.6. The main clinical risk factors for hCAM, funisitis, and deciduitis in the HUD group, such as prematurity, nulliparity, group B streptococcus colonization, and duration of ruptured fetal membranes before the cesarean section, indicated the antenatal occurrence of inflammatory process. А decrease of the uterine contractility іn the HL group was associated with grade 2+ deciduitis (aOR: 1.4, 95% CI: 0.6–3.6) and grade II+ myometritis (aOR: 3.9, 95% CI: 1.3–14.7), but no association was found with stage II+ hCAM (aOR: 0.8, 95% CI: 0.3–4.9) and stage 2+ funisitis (aOR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.6–2.7). Decidual and myometrial inflammation was significantly connected with nulliparity and intrapartum factors such as protracted active first stage of labor with oxytocin augmentation, advanced cervical dilation, and number of vaginal examinations. Inflammation of the myometrium was accompanied by the deciduitis in all cases.Conclusions. Mild inflammation of the decidua and myometrium of the lower segment of the uterus at term pregnancy is a physiological phenomenon that contributes to the initiation of labor. Inflammation of the chorioamniotic membranes and decidua against the background of intact myometrium plays a fundamental role in the occurrence of hypertensive uterine dysfunction, particularly in preterm birth. Marked myometrial inflammation that occurs in prolonged labor is an additional factor aggravating the hypotonic uterine activity.

#60 : Is the Imbalance of Gender Ratio (GR) in IVF/ICSI Cycles Being Affected by the Current Blastocyst Selection Criteria?

Background and Aims: Studies have reported a GR skewed towards male offspring in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) field due to the current blastocyst selection criteria. Male blastocysts have been observed to develop faster and with better grading than female blastocysts. Thus, more male blastocysts are chosen for being transferred. However, the underlying mechanism to cause the GR shift is still controversial. This study is aimed to investigate the preconception factors which may affect gender distribution. Method: In this single-centered retrospective cohort study from 2020 to 2022, a total of 1100 (Day 5: 439, Day 6: 661) blastocysts were biopsied. Blastocyst gender and chromosomal abnormalities were identified using next-generation sequencing-based pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy. Blastocysts were categorized into: euploid, mosaic (25-80% mosaicism) and aneuploid. Pearson chi-square test was performed to analyze the GR and ploidy status between the genders. Results: Overall, the gender distribution skewed significantly towards female (54% vs 46%, p&lt;0.05). However, male blastocysts possessed higher euploid rate than female blastocysts (39% vs 33%, p&lt;0.05). No significant difference was shown in mosaic and aneuploidy rate between males and females (33% vs 36%, 28% vs 31%, p&gt;0.05). Furthermore, the male-to-female ratio was not significant between day 5 and 6 blastocysts (1:1.23 vs 1:1.74, p&gt;0.05), indicating a similar developmental speed between the genders. Conclusion: Among all the blastocysts analyzed, the GR is biased towards females, but higher euploid rate was observed in male than female blastocysts. Therefore, our results indicate that the imbalanced GR in favor of male offspring using ART may be correlated to the chromosomal issue, rather than blastocyst selection criteria. However, studies on intrapartum factors are necessary to further investigate the underlying mechanism to cause gender shift in ART.

Pregnancy Outcomes in COVID-19 Vaccination During Pregnancy

Objective: To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes in COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy Materials and Methods: The present study was a retrospective cohort study. The data were collected from pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) and delivery at Makarak Hospital, Kanchanaburi Province, between September 2021 and April 2022. The studied subjects were categorized into three groups, antepartum factor, intrapartum factor, and postpartum and newborn factor. The relationship of each factor was brought for comparative study in COVID-19 vaccination status as vaccinated or unvaccinated, during pregnancy. Then, multivariable analysis was used to adjust the relationship of the variables in each group. Results: Five hundred sixteen pregnant women attended ANC and delivered. They were aged 27.5 years on the average. Most of them were gravida 2. The proportion of vaccines received was 19.2%. When comparing between the vaccinated and the unvaccinated groups, it was found that the vaccinated group was significantly increased in diabetes disorder (adjusted OR 3.54, 95% CI 1.67 to 7.50) and significantly decreased in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (adjusted OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.76). Other adverse outcomes between the two groups were not significantly different. In addition, COVID-19 infection rate during intrapartum period was not different (adjusted OR 2.13, 95% CI 0.87 to 5.22, p=0.09). Conclusion: Diabetes disorder during pregnancy was significantly higher and risk of NICU admission was significantly lower in the COVID-19 vaccinated group compared with the unvaccinated group. Adverse obstetric outcomes between the vaccinated and unvaccinated groups were not different. Keywords: Pregnancy outcomes; COVID-19 vaccination; Pregnant women

Determinants of stillbirths in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have high stillbirth rates compared with high-income countries, yet research on risk factors for stillbirth in SSA remain scant. To identify the modifiable risk factors of stillbirths in SSA and investigate their strength of association using a systematic review. CINAHL Plus, EMBASE, Global Health and MEDLINE databases were searched for literature. Observational population- and facility-level studies exploring stillbirth risk factors, published in 2013-2019 were included. A narrative synthesis of data was undertaken and the potential risk factors were classified into subgroups. Thirty-seven studies were included, encompassing 20 264 stillbirths. The risk factors were categorised as: maternal antepartum factors (0-4 antenatal care visits, multiple gestations, hypertension, birth interval of >3 years, history of perinatal death); socio-economic factors (maternal lower wealth index and basic education, advanced maternal age, grand multiparity of ≥5); intrapartum factors (direct obstetric complication); fetal factors (low birthweight and gestational age of <37 weeks) and health systems factors (poor quality of antenatal care, emergency referrals, ill-equipped facility). The proportion of unexplained stillbirths remained very high. No association was found between stillbirths and body mass index, diabetes, distance from the facility or HIV. The overall quality of evidence was low, as many studies were facility based and did not adjust for confounding factors. This review identified preventable risk factors for stillbirth. Focused programmatic strategies to improve antenatal care, emergency obstetric care, maternal perinatal education, referral and outreach systems, and birth attendant training should be developed. More population-based, high-quality research is needed.

Maternal and peripartum risk factors for acute funisitis among term deliveries complicated by intraamniotic infection

Acute funisitis (AF), the histologic diagnosis of inflammation within the umbilical cord, represents a fetal inflammatory response and has been associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. There is little known regarding the maternal and intrapartum risk factors associated with the development AF among term deliveries complicated by intraamniotic infection (IAI). To identify maternal and intrapartum risk factors associated with developing AF among term deliveries complicated by IAI. After IRB approval, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of term deliveries affected by clinical IAI at a single tertiary center between 2013-2017 with placental pathology consistent with histologic chorioamnionitis. Exclusion criteria included intrauterine fetal demise, missing delivery information or placental pathology, and documented congenital fetal abnormalities. Maternal sociodemographic, antepartum, and intrapartum factors were compared among patients with AF on pathology to those without AF using bivariate statistics. Regression models developed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR). Of 123 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 75 (61%) had AF on placental pathology. Compared to placental specimens without AF, AF was observed more frequently among patients with maternal body-mass-index (BMI) ≥ 30kg/m2 (58.7% vs, 39.6%, p=0.04) and labor courses with increased rupture of membrane (ROM) duration (17.3 vs, 9.6 hours, p=0.001). Use of fetal scalp electrode (FSE) was observed less frequently in AF (5.3% vs, 16.7%, p=0.04) compared to cases without AF. In regression models, maternal BMI≥30kg/m2 (aOR 2.67, 95% CI 1.21,5.90) and ROM >18 hours (aOR 2.48, 95% CI 1.07,5.75) were significantly associated with AF. FSE use (aOR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04,0.71) was negatively associated with AF. In term deliveries with IAI and histologic chorioamnionitis, maternal BMI≥30kg/m2, and ROM>18 hours were associated with AF on placental pathology. As insight into the clinical impact of AF grows, the ability to predict which pregnancies are at greatest risk for its development may allow for a tailored approach to predicting neonatal risk for sepsis and related comorbidity.

Risk factors accounting for anal incontinence during the first year after vaginal delivery-A case control study in China.

Anal incontinence (AI) is a prevalent postpartum disorder. This study aims to investigate and quantify the risk factors for AI in the Chinese population during the first year following vaginal delivery. The case control study was conducted at Peking University Third Hospital, including all women who delivered vaginally between January 1, 2014, and June 30, 2018. Participants were followed up by telephone interviews 1 year after delivery. AI was defined as the involuntary loss of flatus or feces using a retrospective Jorge and Wexner score above 0. Clinical data were retrieved from the medical record system. Univariate and multivariate analyses were applied to identify potential risk factors accounting for AI. Based on the logistic regression model, a nomogram was constructed to predict the probability of AI postpartum. Restricted cubic spline was utilized to explore potential non-linear relationships between birth weight and AI postpartum. Among the 140 AI and 421 none AI cases, we observed antepartum factors like every 100 g of birth weight gain (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.30-1.49), while intrapartum factors like forceps-assisted vaginal delivery (OR 7.11, 95% CI 2.60-19.45), midline episiotomy (OR 13.11, 95% CI 1.71-100.89), second-degree perineal tear (OR 6.51, 95% CI 1.16-36.68), and third to fourth-degree perineal tear were independent risk factors for postpartum AI. Significantly, infant weighing over 3,400 g at birth increased the risk of AI postpartum. Based on logistic regression model, we constructed a nomogram to estimate the risk of AI 1 year after vaginal delivery. Our findings indicated that during the first year following vaginal delivery, infant with birth weight of 3,400 g or more, forceps-assisted vaginal delivery, midline episiotomy, and second to fourth-degree perineal tear increased the risk of AI. As a result, it is essential to limit the routine use of forceps and midline episiotomy and to monitor fetal weight during prenatal care.

Prenatal, Intrapartum, and Neonatal Factors Increase the Risk of Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

Early-life exposures have been associated with an increased risk of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE); however, most studies to date have been conducted at referral centers and are subject to recall bias. By contrast, we conducted a nationwide, population-based and registry-based case-control study of prenatal, intrapartum, and neonatal exposures, using data collected prospectively through population-based Danish health and administrative registries. We ascertained all EoE cases in Denmark (birth years 1997-2018). Cases were sex and age matched to controls (1:10) using risk-set sampling. We obtained data on prenatal, intrapartum, and neonatal factors, i.e., pregnancy complications, mode of delivery, gestational age at delivery, birthweight (expressed as a z-score), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. We used conditional logistic regression to compute the crude and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of EoE in relation to each prenatal, intrapartum, and neonatal factor, thus providing an estimate of incidence density ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI). In the 393 cases and 3,659 population controls included (median age at index date, 11 years [interquartile range, 6-15]; 69% male), we observed an association between gestational age and EoE, peaking at 33 vs 40 weeks (aOR 3.6 [95% CI 1.8-7.4]), and between NICU admission and EoE (aOR 2.8 [95% CI 1.2-6.6], for a NICU hospitalization of 2-3 weeks vs no admission). In interaction analyses, we observed a stronger association between NICU admission and EoE in infants born at term than in preterm infants (aOR 2.0 [95% CI 1.4-2.9] for term infants and aOR 1.0 [95% CI 0.5-2.0] for preterm infants). We also observed an association between pregnancy complications and EoE (aOR 1.4 [95% CI 1.0-1.9]). Infants who were very growth restricted at birth had an increased rate of EoE (aOR 1.4 [95% CI: 1.0-1.9] for a z-score of -1.5 vs a z-score of 0). Mode of delivery was not associated with EoE. Prenatal, intrapartum, and neonatal factors, particularly preterm birth and NICU admission, were associated with development of EoE. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the observed associations.

Perinatal antecedents of moderate and severe neonatal hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy: An Australian birth cohort study.

Neonatal hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the most common cause of encephalopathy in the neonatal period and carries a high risk of mortality and long-term morbidity. The aim of this study was to investigate key antecedents of moderate and severe HIE in a large contemporary birth cohort. A retrospective cohort study of births meeting criteria was conducted between 2016 and 2020 at the Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia. This is a quaternary perinatal centre and Australia's largest maternity hospital. Univariate and multivariate Firth logistic regression were used to account for imbalanced frequency classes between non-HIE and HIE groups. Maternal variables and intrapartum factors were investigated for associations with neonatal moderate and severe HIE. Overall, 133 of 46 041 (0.29%) infants were diagnosed with HIE: 77 (0.17%) with mild HIE and 56 (0.12%) with moderate/severe HIE. Nulliparity, type 1 diabetes mellitus and maternal intensive care unit admission were associated with increased odds of moderate/severe HIE. Intrapartum risk factors included emergency caesarean birth, emergency caesarean for non-reassuring fetal status or failure to process, intrapartum haemorrhage and an intrapartum sentinel event (shoulder dystocia, cord prolapse, uterine rupture and placental abruption). Neonatal risk factors included male sex, late preterm gestation (35+0 -36+6 weeks), Apgar score less than four at 5min, severe respiratory distress requiring ventilatory support and severe acidosis at birth. This cohort study identified a series of potentially modifiable maternal and obstetric risk factors for HIE. Risk factors for HIE do not appear to have changed significantly with evolution in modern obstetric care.

Decision-making regarding immediate vs. interval postpartum levonorgestrel intrauterine device insertion timing

BackgroundUnderstanding decision-making for contraception initiation timing postpartum may help guide patients in selecting a contraceptive method most aligned with their reproductive goals. The objective of this study was to explore the decision-making process in patients who chose immediate postplacental (IPP) levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG IUD) insertion versus interval insertion at the postpartum follow-up visit.MethodsWe recruited English-speaking, reproductive-aged adult postpartum participants who received either an IPP or interval postpartum LNG IUD from September to December 2017 at MetroHealth Medical Center. We conducted interviews over the phone utilizing a pilot-tested, semi-structured interview guide. Interview topics included past experiences with contraception, provider counseling, intrapartum factors, and current experiences after IUD insertion.ResultsWe interviewed 20 participants (12 IPP and eight interval IUD recipients). Participants receiving an IPP IUD described convenience, desire for immediate contraception, pain control and availability of alternative contraception options as influential for their decision. Patients who received an interval IUD performed outside research, focused on the events surrounding delivery, and generally favored additional recovery time before obtaining an IUD. Patients who received interval IUDs were often not aware that IPP IUDs were available. Early, frequent, and comprehensive counseling was viewed favorably when compared to counseling upon arrival to the laboring unit. While overall there was congruence of participant expectations and experiences, unexpected expulsion affected desire for future IUD use in some participants.ConclusionProviders should be mindful that prior experience and knowledge as well as delivery room considerations affect insertion timing decision-making.Trial registrationN/A

Intrapartum Factors Affecting Abnormal Lipid Profiles in Early Postpartum Period

The aim of this research is to investigate the risk factors during pregnancy affect abnormal lipid profiles in women with early postpartum period. This was a single-center retrospective study including 869 women who delivered between December 2017 and May 2019. We collected total cholesterol levels, both at 24-28 GWs and 1 month before delivery. Lipid profiles such as total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) at 6 weeks after delivery were retrieved. Subjects were categorized into 3 groups such as normal, borderline and abnormal group according to the lipid profile levels. The risk factors associated with borderline to abnormal HDL level were body mass index (BMI) of pre-pregnancy (OR = 1.182, 95% CI: 1.116-1.252, p < 0.001), weight gain during pregnancy (OR = 1.085, 95% CI: 1.042-1.131, p < 0.001) and hypertension (HTN) (OR = 3.451, 95% CI: 1.224-9.727, p = 0.02). The risk factors associated with borderline or abnormal TG were BMI of pre-pregnancy, weight gain during pregnancy and weight reduction after delivery. HTN was associated with borderline to abnormal TG in postpartum (OR = 2.891, 95% CI: 1.168-7.156, p = 0.02), while GDM correlated purely with abnormal TG in postpartum (OR = 2.453, 95% CI: 1.068-5.630, p = 0.03). Abnormal lipid profiles in postpartum were significantly associated with BMI of pre-pregnancy, weight gain during pregnancy and weight reduction after delivery. In addition, pregnancy-related HTN was highly associated with abnormal HDL level, and GDM was associated with abnormal TG level in the early postpartum period.

Predicting obstetric anal sphincter injuries among laboring women: 2 prediction models and 1 risk calculator

Abstract Background: Although several prediction models have been developed to estimate the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) among laboring women, none have been used in clinical practice because of controversial or unavailable predictors included in the prediction models and the format used to present them. Thus, it is essential to develop evidence-based prediction models for OASIS using known antenatal and modifiable intrapartum factors and to present them in user-friendly formats. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop evidence-based prediction models for OASIS and a risk calculator to present prediction models. Methods: Models were developed based on a systematic review and meta-analysis in which risk factors for OASIS were identified, and the pooled odds ratio for each risk factor was calculated. A logistic regression model was used to develop the prediction models, and MATLAB with a graphical user interface was used to develop the risk calculator. Results: Two prediction models for OASIS were established: Model I and Model II. Model I included 7 known antenatal variables: maternal age, parity, prior cesarean delivery, prepregnancy body mass index, gestational age, estimated birth weight, and fetal position. Model II added 5 modifiable intrapartum variables to Model I: epidural analgesia, labor induction, labor augmentation, episiotomy, and operative vaginal birth. The risk calculator developed by writing the parameters in the logistic regression models into MATLAB scripts included 2 interfaces, each consisting of risk factors for OASIS and the possibility of OASIS occurring. Conclusions: This study developed 2 prediction models and a risk calculator for OASIS based on a systematic review and meta-analysis. Although the models were more scientific in model development methods and predictors included in the prediction models, they should be externally validated and updated to ensure better performance before they can be widely applied to guide clinical practice.

Pregnancy and the risk of NICU admissions in Nandom Municipality of Ghana: A cross-sectional retrospective study.

Neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are specialized units that provide medical attention to neonates, and thus have become a vital aspect in the provision of critical care to infants who are faced with special challenges following birth. To determine antepartum and intrapartum factors that predispose to NICU admissions in the Nandom Municipal of the Upper West Region of Ghana. This was a cross-sectional retrospective study, spanning from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Records covering 1777 women who were delivered or had their babies referred to the St. Theresa's Hospital in the Nandom Municipality were involved in the study. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression analysis were used to compare variables, and statistical significance was determined where the p-value was less than 0.05. From the study, the rate of NICU admission was 10.4%. There was a significant association between mothers who attended less than four antenatal sessions (p = 0.004) and admission to NICU. Nulliparous mothers (p = 0.027) and mothers who presented with multiple pregnancy (p < 0.001) were more likely to have their babies sent to NICU. Both preterm delivery (p < 0.001) and post-term delivery (p < 0.001) were prone to admission to NICU. Also, instrumental delivery (p < 0.001), cesarean section (p < 0.001), low birth weight (p < 0.001), and male infants (p = 0.003) had an increased risk of being admitted to NICU. Furthermore, severe (p < 0.001) and moderate (p < 0.001) birth asphyxia in the first minute following delivery were significantly associated with NICU admission whereas severely asphyxiated babies at 5 min(p < 0.001) were associated with NICU admission. The study revealed a relatively high NICU admission rate in the study area, and the predictors are multifaceted. Tailored intervention programs aimed at curbing these predictors will be required to reduce the rate of NICU admissions in the Nandom Municipality of Ghana.