Maternal Well-being Research Articles

Maternal Characteristics and Iron Intake as a Factors of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a critical period for fetal growth and development, nutritional issues can significantly affect both maternal and fetal health. This phase is marked by increased nutritional needs to support fetal development and maintain maternal well-being. This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women in Parung Panjang District Health Center, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 92 pregnant women, examining various maternal characteristics and nutrient adequacy levels. The prevalence of anemia was found to be 36%. Parity emerged as a significant factor, with primipara mothers showing a higher anemia rate (46%) compared to multipara mothers (23.8%). Iron intake adequacy was also significantly associated with anemia status (p = 0.050). Women with insufficient iron intake had a higher rate of anemia (45.7%) compared to those with sufficient intake (26.1%). Other factors such as maternal age, education, and vitamin C intake did not show significant associations with anemia. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions for primipara mothers and emphasize the crucial role of adequate iron intake during pregnancy. The study underscores the need for comprehensive anemia prevention strategies in prenatal care.

Insights into fetomaternal outcomes in pre-eclampsia: A tertiary care center descriptive study

Preeclampsia and eclampsia remain significant challenges in both maternal and perinatal health worldwide, with a pronounced impact in regions such as India, where access to comprehensive maternal care can be limited. The objective of this study was to examine the outcomes for both mothers and babies, along with the complications linked to severe cases of preeclampsia and eclampsia, within a tertiary healthcare facility situated in South India. : Sixty-five pregnant women diagnosed with severe preeclampsia or eclampsia were enrolled in this descriptive observational study conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital, Chennai, spanning from March 2023 to December 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised women with singleton pregnancies exhibiting severe preeclampsia (defined by blood pressure ≥160/110 mmHg and 1+ or more albuminuria) or eclampsia. Exclusion criteria included chronic hypertension, multiple pregnancies, chronic renal disease, connective tissue disorder, neurological complications, and refusal of consent. Data on sociodemographic variables, obstetric characteristics, maternal symptoms, and complications were collected using a structured questionnaire. Maternal and fetal well-being were assessed through biochemical, radiological, and nonstress tests.: The results revealed that 80% of the study population with severe preeclampsia or eclampsia fell within the age group of 21-30 years, with 49.2% aged between 26-30 years. Majority (60%) were primigravida. Common maternal symptoms included headache (60%), oedema (76.9%), with fewer experiencing epigastric pain (3.1%) and vaginal bleeding (15.4%). Complications observed were HELLP syndrome (12.35%), placental abruption (7.7%), and eclampsia (10.8%). Perinatal outcomes included intrauterine fetal death (4.6%), fetal growth retardation (23.1%), low birth weight (30.8%), respiratory distress syndrome (4.6%), and stillbirth (1.5%), with 35.4% being normal births.This study emphasises the substantial impact of severe preeclampsia and eclampsia on the health of both mothers and fetuses, underscoring the importance of thorough antenatal care, prompt identification of risk factors, and timely interventions to minimise negative consequences. There is a clear call for additional research to investigate and implement effective strategies for prevention and management, aiming to decrease the morbidity and mortality rates associated with these hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

Abstract 4143281: The Influence of Personal and Family Support on Maternal Cardiovascular Health: Insights from a TriNetX Study

Background: Maternal cardiovascular health during and after pregnancy is influenced by various factors, including personal and family support. However, the specific impact of abnormal personal and family support on maternal outcomes remains understudied. Methods: Utilizing the TriNetX global health research network within the US Collaborative Network, we investigated the influence of abnormal personal and family support (ICD10CM:Z63) on maternal cardiovascular outcomes within one year post-pregnancy. Cohort 1 comprised women aged 15 to 60 with documented problems relating to primary and family support during or after childbirth between 2008 and 2023. Cohort 2 included a similar demographic with good primary and family support. Data were extracted from electronic health records, and the cohorts were matched based on diverse sociodemographic traits and medical comorbidities. Results: Our analysis revealed significant associations between problems relating to primary and family support during and after pregnancy and adverse maternal cardiovascular outcomes. Specifically, the presence of such challenges significantly increased the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (OR: 4.823, 95% CI: 3.361 to 6.919, p<0.001) and all-cause mortality (OR: 8.461, 95% CI: 5.184 to 13.812, p<0.001). Interestingly, it was associated with a reduced risk of peripartum or postpartum preeclampsia (OR: 0.603, 95% CI: 0.403 to 0.903, p<0.001). However, no significant association was observed between these personal and family support challenges and acute MI (OR: 1.092, 95% CI: 0.482 to 2.747, p=NS), ischemic stroke (OR: 1.403, 95% CI: 0.623 to 3.160, p=NS), hemorrhagic stroke (OR: 1.000, 95% CI: 0.416 to 2.404, p=NS), heart failure (OR: 1.075, 95% CI: 0.636 to 1.817, p=NS), or peripartum cardiomyopathy (OR: 0.586, 95% CI: 0.322 to 1.068, p=NS). Conclusion: Our findings highlight the significant impact of abnormal personal and family support on maternal cardiovascular health outcomes during and one year after pregnancy. Addressing challenges related to primary and family support during and after pregnancy may be crucial for reducing adverse outcomes and enhancing overall maternal well-being.

Harmonizing high-risk pregnancies: A comprehensive investigation into maternal and fetal well-being

High-risk pregnancies are a global concern, with maternal and fetal well-being at the forefront of clinical care. Pregnancy’s three trimesters bring distinct changes to mothers and fetal development, impacting maternal health through hormonal, physical, and emotional shifts. Fetal well-being is influenced by organ development, nutrition, oxygenation, and environmental exposures. Effective management of high-risk pregnancies necessitates a specialized, multidisciplinary approach. To comprehend this integrated approach, a comparative literature analysis using Atlas.ti software is essential. Findings reveal key aspects vital to high-risk pregnancy care, including intervention effectiveness, case characteristics, regional variations, economic implications, psychosocial impacts, holistic care, longitudinal studies, cultural factors, technological influences, and educational strategies. These findings inform current clinical practices and drive further research. Integration of knowledge across multidisciplinary care teams is pivotal for enhancing care for high-risk pregnancies, promoting maternal and fetal well-being worldwide.

Maternal labor supply and children's emotional well-being

Maternal labor supply and children's emotional well-being

Exploring Postpartum Depression among Mothers in Dhaka's Slum Areas: A Qualitative Study

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health problem, especially in low-income communities with inadequate access to mental health care. This study investigates the incidence, experiences, and risk factors for postpartum depression among mothers in Dhaka's slum regions. Using a qualitative technique, we conducted in-depth interviews with 31 mothers aged 18 to 35 who had recently given birth and lived in various Dhaka slum neighborhoods. Interviews centered on their emotional well-being, social support networks, and impediments to mental health care. Thematic analysis identified a number of important variables that contribute to PPD, including as limited access to healthcare services, financial stress, marital abuse, and a lack of social support. The problem was made worse by the cultural stigma associated with mental health and parenting, which discouraged many mothers from getting treatment. Many participants said they felt alone, overburdened, and guilty of their emotional problems; others didn't know that their sensations may be connected to a health issue. The results highlight the need for community-based support networks and focused mental health interventions to address the particular difficulties experienced by new moms in urban slums. This study underlines the need of integrating mental health services into maternity healthcare in resource-constrained settings to promote overall maternal wellbeing and minimize the burden of postpartum depression.

Midwife-Led Versus Obstetrician-Led Perinatal Care for Low-Risk Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 1.4 Million Pregnancies

Background: The optimum model of perinatal care for low-risk pregnancies has been a topic of debate. Obstetrician-led care tends to perform unnecessary interventions, whereas the quality of midwife-led care has been subject to debate. This review aimed to assess whether midwife-led care reduces childbirth intervention and whether this comes at the expense of maternal and neonatal wellbeing. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched for relevant studies. Studies were checked for eligibility by screening the titles, abstracts, and full texts. We performed meta-analyses using the inverse variance method using RevMan software version 5.3. We pooled data using the risk ratio and mean difference with the 95% confidence interval. Results: This review included 44 studies with 1,397,320 women enrolled. Midwife-led care carried a lower risk of unplanned cesarean and instrumental vaginal deliveries, augmentation of labor, epidural/spinal analgesia, episiotomy, and active management of labor third stage. Women who received midwife-led care had shorter hospital stays and lower risks of infection, manual removal of the placenta, blood transfusion, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Furthermore, neonates delivered under midwife-led care had lower risks of acidosis, asphyxia, transfer to specialist care, and ICU admission. Postpartum hemorrhage, perineal tears, APGAR score < 7, and other outcomes were comparable between the two models of management. Conclusions: Midwife-led care reduced childbirth interventions with favorable maternal and neonatal outcomes in most cases. We recommend assigning low-risk pregnancies to midwife-led perinatal care in health systems with infrastructure allowing for smooth transfer when complications arise. Further research is needed to reflect the situation in low-resource countries.

Primary abdominal pregnancy with a viable fetus: clinical case of successful management

Abdominal pregnancy, occurring outside typical intrauterine locations, poses substantial risks to maternal health due to the potential for severe bleeding from placental detachment. Despite its rarity, accounting for 1–1.5% of ectopic pregnancies, its mortality rates are significantly higher, with maternal mortality ranging from 2% to 30%.Case report. A 42-year-old woman, pregnant with her third pregnancy at 33 weeks, was admitted to the hospital with abdominal pain. All antenatal visits were performed without the use of ultrasound. Utilizing ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we diagnosed an abdominal pregnancy, revealing an extrauterine fetus and placenta, and clarified the location of the placenta, and the involvement of nearby structures. Prompt surgical intervention via laparotomy ensured successful delivery and maternal well-being. The male baby was born in good condition, and no congenital abnormalities were observed.Discussion: Ultrasound remains the primary diagnostic tool, complemented by MRI for precise evaluation. Early diagnosis is paramount, emphasizing the need for improved clinical understanding and vigilance, with MRI serving as a valuable adjunct in uncertain cases. Early surgical intervention, guided by diagnostic imaging, improves outcomes, underscoring the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of abdominal pregnancy.

Treatment With Long-Acting Injectable Aripiprazole During Pregnancy in Bipolar Disorder: A Scoping Review

Background: The management of bipolar disorder during pregnancy presents a significant challenge, particularly regarding the safety and effectiveness of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics like aripiprazole. Despite the growing use of LAI antipsychotics in psychiatric disorders, data on their use during pregnancy are limited, especially for bipolar disorder. This study aimed to shed light on this issue through a scoping review. Areas of Uncertainty: The level of evidence concerning the safety of second-generation antipsychotics during pregnancy is limited. Data on LAI aripirazole are even more limited. Data Sources: We conducted a scoping review following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, systematically searching multiple electronic databases for studies published between January 2008 and February 2024. The review focused on the administration of aripiprazole during pregnancy among patients with psychiatric disorders, examining outcomes related to maternal health, fetal well-being, and neonatal outcomes. Results: The scoping review identified 11 case reports that met the inclusion criteria and 4 additional studies (prospective and retrospective cohort studies). Conclusions: The scoping review emphasizes the need for further research to confirm its safety and efficacy. The limited data underscore the importance of individualized treatment plans and informed decision-making, considering the unique risks and benefits of LAI antipsychotic use during pregnancy. Further studies are imperative to provide more definitive guidance for managing bipolar disorder with LAI antipsychotics in pregnant patients.

A methodological proposal for midwifery education: Asking, Learning, Telling, and Embracing Diversity (ALTE)

ObjectiveThis study addressed the imperative for educational methodologies that effectively cultivate an understanding of diverse cultures within midwifery education curricula, particularly focusing on culture-based practices in the professional milieu. The primary objective was to develop a comprehensive methodology for the integration of cultural competence acquisition into midwifery undergraduate education. This study endeavoured to introduce and critically assesses an educational approach tailored to facilitate the acquisition of cultural competence and sensitivity among midwifery students. DesignThe Asking, Learning, Telling, and Embracing Diversity (ALTE) method, which was developed for use in the “History and Philosophy of Midwifery” course curriculum, was evaluated within the framework of instructor experiences and feedback from students. SettingX University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Midwifery in Türkiye. ParticipantsA cohort of midwifery students enrolled in the History and Philosophy of Midwifery course between 2011 and 2016 (N=95). FindingsThe ALTE method, which is characterized by a student-cantered approach and active participation facilitation, presents an opportunity to enhance student engagement and foster active learning. Student feedback underscored that ALTE, emphasizing active participation, is perceived as an instructive and enriching educational approach, diverging from conventional didactic teaching methods. The ALTE method has emerged as an effective instrument for instilling cultural competence within midwifery education. Key conclusionsThe implementation of the ALTE method empowered midwifery students from diverse geographical backgrounds to discern varied cultural codes and traditional practices. This methodology facilitated the identification of commonalities across regions, exploration of preserved cultural values, and scrutiny of potential advantages, disadvantages, and risks associated with such practices concerning maternal and neonatal well-being. Notably, ALTE exhibited commendable efficacy in fostering cultural sensitivity, active learning, acquisition of communication and presentation skills, peer learning, development of cultural competence, and critical thinking skills.

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in pregnancy: short-term effects on maternal and foetal wellbeing

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in pregnancy: short-term effects on maternal and foetal wellbeing

Participation and Well-Being of Chinese Mothers Who Have Children With Disabilities.

High stress and compromised mental health are well-documented among mothers of children with disabilities, but less is known about the factors that influence their participation and well-being, especially among Chinese mothers. Identifying these factors could lead to strategies to mitigate potential risks to maternal well-being. To explore the relationships among participation in health-promoting activities, perceived stigma, perceived support, and well-being of ethnic Chinese mothers who have children with disabilities. Cross-sectional survey. Community. Ethnic Chinese mothers (N = 261) with children with disabilities of any age residing in Australia, Singapore, or Taiwan. Health Promoting Activities Scale, Personal Wellbeing Index, Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale; Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, Parental Perceptions of Public Attitudes Scale, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Moderate to strong correlations were found between mental well-being and all measures. The frequency of participation in health-promoting activities was a predictor of mental well-being (β = .21, p = .001). Perceived support was the strongest predictor of participation in health-promoting activities (β = .25, p = .005), mental well-being (β = .39, p < .001), and personal well-being (β = .45, p < .001). Perceived stigma predicted psychological distress (β = .32, p < .001) and mental well-being (β = -0.29, p < .001). Perceived support and stigma affected mothers' participation in health-promoting activities and well-being. Therapists can facilitate mothers' engagement in health-promoting activities and develop strategies to address stigma and enhance support. Plain-Language Summary: This research highlights factors that affect the well-being of ethnic Chinese mothers who have children with disabilities and provides cultural insights for occupational therapists who work with Chinese families. The article also encourages pediatric occupational therapists to address the occupational needs and well-being of mothers in parallel with therapy for their children. We discuss occupation-focused strategies, family-centered perspectives, and health promotion approaches in relation to improving the participation and well-being of ethnic Chinese mothers in their cultural context.

Association between prenatal maternal sleep quality, neonatal uncinate fasciculus white matter, and infant negative emotionality

Poor prenatal maternal sleep is a pervasive, yet modifiable, health concern affecting maternal and foetal wellbeing. Experimental rodent studies demonstrate that prenatal maternal sleep deprivation affects offspring brain development and leads to adverse outcomes, including increased anxiety-like behaviour. We examined the relation between prenatal maternal sleep quality and neonatal white matter development and subsequent infant negative emotionality. Participants included 116 mother-infant (53% female) dyads. Prenatal sleep quality was prospectively assessed three times during gestation (16, 29, and 35 gestational weeks) using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Neonatal white matter, as indexed by fractional anisotropy (FA), was assessed via diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Negative emotionality was measured via behavioural observation and maternal report when the infant was 6-months of age. More prenatal sleep problems across pregnancy were associated with higher neonatal FA in the uncinate fasciculus (left: b=0.20, p=.004; right: b=0.15, p=.027). Higher neonatal uncinate FA was linked to infant negative emotionality, and uncinate FA partially mediated the association between prenatal maternal sleep and behavioural observation of infant negative emotionality. Findings highlight prenatal sleep as an environmental signal that affects the developing neonatal brain and later infant negative emotionality. National Institutes of Health (R01MH109662, R01HL155744, P50HD103573, K12AR084226, F32 Training fellowships MH125572, HL165844, MH106440, and diversity supplement R01HL155744-01S1).

Regional disparities and socio-demographic factors associated with eight or more antenatal care visits in Ghana

BackgroundAntenatal care is vital for maternal health and wellbeing, with the World Health Organization recommending a minimum of eight visits during pregnancy. In this study, we examined the regional disparities and factors associated with eight or more antenatal care visits in Ghana.MethodsWe performed a cross-sectional analysis of data from the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. Our study comprised 3,893 women of reproductive age with birth history in the last two years before the survey. Regional disparities in the proportion of eight or more antenatal care visits were visualised using a spatial map. A mixed-effect multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors associated with eight or more antenatal care visits using a four-modeled approach. The results were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsThe prevalence of eight or more antenatal care visits in Ghana was 38.4% [95% CI = 36.0–41.0]. The regions with the highest prevalence were Eastern, Greater Accra, Western, and Volta. Those with the lowest prevalence were Northern, North East, Savannah, and Oti. The odds of eight or more antenatal care visits were lower among women aged 40–49 [aOR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.18–0.96], women with four or more children [aOR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.36–0.93], women who wanted pregnancy later [aOR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.46–0.85], and women in five regions: Western North [aOR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.19–0.94], Bono [aOR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.14–0.76], Northern [aOR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.13–0.66], Savannah [aOR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.14–0.65] and North East [aOR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.14–0.75]. Women in the richer [aOR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.19–3.33] and richest [aOR = 4.82, 95% CI = 2.45–9.51] wealth index showed a higher likelihood of completing eight or more antenatal care visits relative to women in the poorest wealth index.ConclusionA significant proportion of women in Ghana fall short of the recommended eight or more antenatal care visits. Age, parity, desired pregnancy timing, wealth status, and region of residence are associated with the number of antenatal care visits. Women in five regions (Bono, Northern, North East, Savannah, and Western North) are significantly less likely to have eight or more antenatal care visits than those in the Western region. The government and policymakers should design programs to address the needs of older women, those with high parity, and women who want to delay pregnancy. Increased healthcare resources, educational campaigns, and addressing regional barriers to antenatal care access are crucial. Promoting public health initiatives to emphasise the importance of completing the recommended number of antenatal care visits for a healthy pregnancy is essential.

Health literacy in pregnant women facing prenatal screening: a short report from “SaperePer” project

Abstract Advancements in health promotion and prenatal medicine have made noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) a common practice during pregnancy, but understanding prenatal health information becomes crucial not only for the well-being of the mother but also for that of the unborn child. Analyze health-related information during pregnancy is fundamental, and this work fits perfectly with this topic, reporting preliminary results from the pilot study “SaperePer”. A health-related questionnaire was administered to 358 women in the first trimester of pregnancy, aiming to study different outcomes: 1.level of knowledge of NIPT; 2.number of screening tests undergone; 3.willingness to undergo a diagnostic test with a high outcome risk of screening test; 4.willingness to end the pregnancy following a diagnosis of pathology. The questionnaire was divided into 3 sections: personal characteristics and lifestyle habits, prenatal health behavior scale (PHBS), and knowledge of NIPT. Preliminary results showed that the level of knowledge of NIPT was higher in older, atheist, working, wealthy highly educated, and preliminary informed women, as well as the higher number of screening tests undergone and the propensity to undergo an invasive diagnostic test after a high-risk screening result (KS and MW tests p &amp;lt; 0.05). On the contrary, women with lower education, faithful and, even more, not preliminary and appropriately informed during prenatal counseling showed lower knowledge of NIPT, lower number of tests undergone, and meager chances to undergo an invasive diagnostic test or to end the pregnancy after a positive diagnosis of pathology (KS and MW tests p &amp;lt; 0.05). In conclusion, this study evaluated health-related information during the first but crucial stages of pregnancy, opening a new understanding of how health literacy and correct prenatal counseling could increase awareness and health promotion in pregnant women, particularly in those women with lower cultural tools. Key messages • Health literacy and correct prenatal counseling could increase awareness and health promotion in pregnant women. • Understanding prenatal health information becomes crucial both for maternal and prenatal well-being.

Care of late intrauterine fetal death and stillbirth: Green-top Guideline No. 55.

A combination of mifepristone and a prostaglandin preparation should usually be recommended as the first-line intervention for induction of labour (Grade B). A single 200 milligram dose of mifepristone is appropriate for this indication, followed by: 24+0-24+6 weeks of gestation - 400 micrograms buccal/sublingual/vaginal/oral of misoprostol every 3 hours; 25+0-27+6 weeks of gestation - 200 micrograms buccal/sublingual/vaginal/oral of misoprostol every 4 hours; from 28+0 weeks of gestation - 25-50 micrograms vaginal every 4 hours, or 50-100 micrograms oral every 2 hours [Grade C]. There is insufficient evidence available to recommend a specific regimen of misoprostol for use at more than 28+0 weeks of gestation in women who have had a previous caesarean birth or transmural uterine scar [Grade D]. Women with more than two lower segment caesarean births or atypical scars should be advised that the safety of induction of labour is unknown [Grade D]. Staff should be educated in discussing mode of birth with bereaved parents. Vaginal birth is recommended for most women, but caesarean birth will need to be considered for some [Grade D]. A detailed informed discussion should be undertaken with parents of both physical and psychological aspects of a vaginal birth versus a caesarean birth [Grade C]. Parents should be cared for in an environment that provides adequate safety according to individual clinical circumstance, while meeting their needs to grieve and feel supported in doing so (GPP). Clinical and laboratory tests should be recommended to assess maternal wellbeing (including coagulopathy) and to determine the cause of fetal death, the chance of recurrence and possible means of avoiding future pregnancy complications [GradeD]. Parents should be advised that with full investigation (including postmortem and placental histology) a possible or probable cause can be found in up to three-quarters of late intrauterine fetal deaths [Grade B]. All parents should be offered cytogenetic testing of their baby, which should be performed after written consent is given (GPP). Parents should be advised that postmortem examination can provide information that can sometimes be crucial to the management of future pregnancy [Grade B].

Exploring factors associated with domestic violence among pregnant women in Pakistan and its implications for maternal and perinatal health

ABSTRACT Domestic violence during pregnancy is a critical health issue due to its significant implications for both maternal and fetal well-being. Women in South Asian countries are particularly at a higher risk of experiencing domestic violence. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with domestic violence among pregnant women attending tertiary care antenatal services in Pakistan. The secondary aim was to evaluate the impact of domestic violence on maternal and perinatal outcomes. The study participants were 681 pregnant women registered for antenatal care and delivery at a tertiary care hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Data were collected through in-person surveys and medical chart reviews. Associations between domestic violence and study variables were examined by logistic regression analysis. Among the study participants, 31.4%experienced some form of domestic violence during pregnancy, with psychological abuse (16.4%) being the most prevalent followed by sexual abuse (9.5%) and physical violence (1.8%). Women whose husbands were unemployed were three times more likely to experience domestic violence (aOR; 3.3, 95%CI: 1.6, 7.0). Similarly, husband’s substance abuse was significantly associated with domestic violence during pregnancy (aOR: 120.8, 95%CI: 57.9, 252.2). Domestic violence was a significant predictor of adverse maternal outcomes, including anemia, preterm labor, and recurrent abdominal pain. Similarly, domestic violence was a significant predictor of NICU admission (aOR: 20.6, 95%CI: 12.6, 33.8) and low birthweight (aOR: 24.4, 95%CI: 10.2, 58.4). The study findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive interventions targeting domestic violence among women and preventing its cascading effects on pregnancies.

Oral health-related beliefs among a sample of pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario: a descriptive study.

Unfavorable beliefs about oral health and dental treatment during pregnancy can lead to the avoidance of dental care and the underutilization of dental services, adversely affecting adherence to good oral hygiene practices and, consequently, the health of the fetus. This study investigated the commonly held oral health beliefs among pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Participants were recruited from the Family Medicine Obstetrics Clinic in London, Ontario, Canada. Eligible participants were pregnant women aged 18 or older, excluding those unwilling to participate. Participants completed a 33-item self-administered questionnaire, including three open-ended questions about oral health beliefs and their impacts on pregnancy, which were analyzed for this study. Thematic analysis in NVivo identified key patterns, while analysis determined the most common beliefs and the degree of diversity in responses. Responses were categorized into sub-themes, and the frequency and percentage of each category were calculated. A total of 130 participants met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 40.7% (n = 46) believed that oral health impacts their child's health, 48.2% (n = 53) believed that dental treatment affects fetal health, and 64.4% (n = 76) believed that pregnancy influences their oral health. Many beliefs regarding oral health during pregnancy regarded infection risks. Participants held negative beliefs about the effects of antibiotics, analgesics, and dental x-rays during pregnancy. Common beliefs about the impacts of pregnancy on oral health included developing conditions, such as tooth sensitivity, caries, and gingivitis, as well as a loss of minerals to the fetus. This study revealed important misconceptions and concerns about oral health and dental treatment among pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario. The findings highlighted the need for enhanced oral health education for pregnant women to address these misconceptions and promote proper care during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to focus on dispelling myths, emphasizing the safety of necessary dental treatments, and reinforcing the significance of maintaining good oral health for maternal and fetal well-being.

Characteristics and outcomes of infants admitted to a parent-infant inpatient psychiatric unit: A pilot study.

Inpatient parent-infant psychiatric units (PIUs) are considered "gold standard" for treating maternal mental illness, with well-documented positive outcomes for mothers. However, little research addresses outcomes for infants in these units, who often face significant developmental and socio-emotional adversity. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the characteristics and progress of an Australian PIU population, focusing on the impact of PIU admission on infant outcomes. Over 3 months, 31 consecutively admitted mother-infant pairs (dyads) were assessed through interviews, observations, and standardized measures to evaluate maternal and infant characteristics and progress from admission to discharge. Maternal well-being and the mother-infant relationship improved. Infants exhibited high levels of physical (29%) and developmental concerns (80.6%). 22.6% receiving an Axis I infant mental health diagnosis. Infant socio-emotional responsiveness improved significantly, as measured by the modified Alarm-Distress Baby Scale, indicating a positive impact of PIU admission. The small sample size and reliance on clinician-observed measures limit the generalizability of the findings. PIU infants are particularly vulnerable, and PIU admission may ameliorate socio-emotional responsiveness. Further research with larger samples and extended follow-up is needed to determine the most effective intervention strategies during and after PIU admission to maximize benefits for these infants.

Externalizing Behaviors of Children as Predicted by Maternal Psychological Well-being

Most of the behaviors of children depend on their parents’ psychological well-being. This study investigated the relationship of maternal psychological well-being with externalizing behaviors of children. A Personal Information Form (PIF), an adapted self-reported Bangla version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and an adapted General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) were administered on 800 (400 children, 400 mothers) participants to collect data. The children were selected from ten Bangla medium high schools in Dhaka city and their age ranges from 11 to 13 years. The schools and the children were selected using a multistage random sampling technique. The Correlation co-efficient indicated that externalizing behavior in children and mother psychological well-being were significantly positively correlated. Results also showed that somatic symptoms, anxiety and insomnia, social dysfunction, and severe depression of mothers were significantly correlated with externalizing behavior of children. Multiple regression analysis results showed that mothers' anxiety and insomnia alone accounted for 46.9% of the variation and was the most powerful predictor of externalizing behavior. The other significant predictors were severe depression, somatic symptoms, and social dysfunction. All the predictors explained jointly 56.1% of variance in externalizing behavior of children. The implications of the findings have been discussed in the light of theory and scientific evidence from the previous studies. Jagannath University Journal of Science, Volume 11, Number 1, Jun. 2024, pp. 1−12