Available evidence supports continuous ultrasound cardiopulmonary monitoring from birth through hospital discharge and into long-term follow-up. Neonatologists should look beyond immediate perinatal complications, as cardiorespiratory morbidities may remain subclinical yet emerge months to years later. Their unique integrated assessment of the cardiopulmonary system, coupled with safe and accessible tools, supports post-discharge TNE-LUS implementation without substantial barriers. • LUS and TNE are typically utilized during the admission period, a role that is well-defined and extensively documented in the literature. • After discharge, echocardiography provides comprehensive longitudinal data, whereas LUS has been poorly investigated. • The utilization of LUS and integrated TNE-LUS after discharge represents a significant research gap and a field of considerable potential utility in the long-term management of preterm infants. • Given their safety profile and accessibility, no substantial barriers preclude their post-discharge implementation.

Unfavorable perinatal complications, such as low-birth-weight infant, premature infant, and small for gestational age (SGA), continue to be significant community health emergencies in low- and middle-income nations. These results are mainly influenced by insufficient maternal diet quality and social inequality, and income disparity. Though several studies have researched these relations, there is a limited synthesis of their joint effect on prenatal results, underlining the essential of inclusive assessment. This scoping review is designed to map and make accessible statistics on maternal diet quality and social and economic factors in relation to intimidating delivery consequences among expectant mothers in developing countries. Re-examine the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. An exhaustive examination was performed in PubMed, Science Direct, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Google Scholar, and MedRxiv for investigations published between January 2000 and December 2024. Revision quality was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to ensure methodological consistency and rigor. Eighty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Suboptimal dietary variety (≤ 5 food classifications per day) was importantly connected with underweight and premature at birth (AOR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.55-3.87). Skipping meals was expected premature delivery (AOR: 2.62; 95% CI: 1.41-4.89), whereas food insufficiencies amplified the threat of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (AOR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.02-4.63). Narcotics misuse, uneducated, low income, being a country dweller, and reduced judgment self-sufficiency were reliably associated with associated effect. Nutrition during pregnancy and social exclusion, and poverty-stricken conjointly impact pregnancy outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. Integrated policies combining nutrition-specific interventions with socioeconomic empowerment are critical to improving maternal and neonatal health.

Abstract Background: Perinatal asphyxia is a major cause of neonatal mortality and long-term neurodevelopmental morbidity. While in-hospital outcomes are well documented, limited Indian data exist on medium-term sequelae in survivors. Objective: To assess neurodevelopmental outcomes at six months in term neonates who survived perinatal asphyxia and to identify associated clinical predictors. Methods: This prospective observational cohort was conducted at the G.B. Pant Hospital, Srinagar, from November 2017 to April 2019. Term neonates (37 weeks, >1.8 kg) with Apgar <6 at 5 min and features of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) were enrolled. Survivors were followed up to six months for developmental assessment, seizure occurrence, and neurological status. Associations with baseline demographic, maternal, and intrapartum variables were analyzed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact test. Results: Of 217 enrolled neonates, 186 (85.7%) survived to discharge; 90 (48.4%) were followed up at six months. Normal development was observed in 22 (11.8%) infants, seizures with normal development in 18 (9.7%), and seizures with developmental delay in 50 (26.9%). Higher HIE grade was strongly associated with adverse outcomes (p<0.001). Unbooked maternal status, prolonged labour, and delayed hospital arrival (>5 h) were significant predictors of developmental delay. Conclusion: Over one-third of survivors of perinatal asphyxia had seizures with developmental delay by six months. HIE grade, perinatal complications, and delayed referral were significant risk factors. Strengthened follow-up programs and early intervention services are warranted.

We aimed to evaluate the risk of perinatal complications in subsequent pregnancies after different types of myomectomy, viz. open, laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic. Moreover, we investigated whether the time interval from myomectomy to subsequent pregnancy (TIMP) is a risk factor for perinatal complications. This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from the vast Japanese health insurance JMDC database between January 2008 and July 2024. We identified primiparous women and excluded participants based on the following criteria: age < 20years at delivery, diagnosis of adenomyosis, multiple pregnancy, or history of repeated myomectomy using different approaches. The occurrence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), placenta previa, uterine rupture, gestational hypertension/preeclampsia, and placental abruption was compared among women who underwent open, laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic myomectomy and those in the control group. Subsequently, for each myomectomy procedure, we compared the TIMP between women with and without each perinatal complication. Fisher's exact test and multivariable logistic regression models were employed. Among the 27,129 eligible women, 140, 305, and 97 underwent open, laparoscopic, and hysteroscopic myomectomy, respectively. The proportion of PAS was the highest in the hysteroscopic group (5.2%), followed by the control (1.8%), open (1.4%), and laparoscopic (1.3%) groups. After adjustment, there was no association between PAS and hysteroscopic myomectomy (adjusted odds ratio, 1.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-4.63). Uterine rupture after myomectomy was observed only in the laparoscopic surgery group (1.0%); this difference among the four groups was statistically significant (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.001), although a robust adjusted analysis was not feasible due to the low incidence rate. The proportion of gestational hypertension/preeclampsia was the highest in the hysteroscopic group (17.5%); however, a similar trend was observed as for PAS (adjusted odds ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 0.74-2.27). The incidences of placenta previa and placental abruption did not differ significantly among the groups. The TIMP was the shortest after hysteroscopic myomectomy, followed by laparoscopic and open myomectomy. Although the number of outcomes was small, which constrained clinical interpretation, there were no perinatal complications associated with TIMP. Our study suggested the potential risk of uterine rupture after laparoscopic myomectomy. The optimal TIMP remains unclear. The risks of perinatal complications after myomectomy should be assessed and addressed at the individual level based on the specific myomectomy method, but further research on the optimal TIMP is warranted.

Beyond Obesity, The impact of excessive gestational weight gain on obstetrical Outcomes: A Belgian retrospective study.

Background: Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy (AFLP) is a rare obstetric condition that can lead to maternal and perinatal complications. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to study the pregnancy outcome in Acute fatty liver of Pregnancy (AFLP). In particular, this study aimed to study the clinical features of the condition and its effect on maternal and perinatal outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of seven cases diagnosed with AFLP over a span of three years was performed. The clinical records of these women were reviewed for clinical features, laboratory investigations, and maternal and perinatal outcomes. Results: The incidence of AFLP was 4/10,000 births. A total of 6(85.7%) women presented during the third trimester of pregnancy. A total of 4(57%) of them presented after 36 weeks of gestation. A total of 6(85.7%) women presented with jaundice, and all presented with sudden onset nonspecific symptoms, including abdominal pain and vomiting. Pregnancy was terminated by cesarean section in 6 cases. Maternal mortality was noted in 6(85.7%) of women. All six women were diagnosed with Acute kidney injury and coagulopathy. One woman had developed encephalopathy and altered sensorium. Further, 2(28.5%) women had intrauterine fetal demise at the time of presentation, and 1(14.3%) had an early neonatal death. Conclusion: AFLP is a rare clinical syndrome with rapid and dramatic progression, beginning initially with non-specific symptoms and evolving into coagulopathy, acute kidney injury, and death, resulting in alarming maternal and perinatal mortality. Early diagnosis is challenging due to the non-specificity of symptoms, but crucial and prompt termination of pregnancy is the need of the hour. Nonetheless, supportive treatment and a multidisciplinary approach may significantly improve prognosis.

ObjectiveThis study conducted a retrospective matched analysis to explore the differences and potential associations in perinatal complications between pregnancies achieved through in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and natural conception.MethodsA total of 806 pregnant women who delivered at the Department of Obstetrics, First Hospital of Lanzhou University, China, from January 2019 to August 2024 were included, with 403 cases in the experimental group and 403 matched controls (natural conception) based on admission month and gestational age (±7 days).ResultsAnalysis revealed that the experimental group exhibited significantly higher incidences of multiple gestations, anemia, postpartum hemorrhage, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy compared to the control group. In singleton pregnancy analysis, these differences persisted except for pelvic inflammation. The findings suggest that ART pregnancies may increase perinatal risks through factors such as embryo manipulation, hormonal interventions, and underlying maternal pathologies.ConclusionThis matched retrospective study highlights that IVF-ET pregnancies are associated with significantly higher risks of multiple gestations and obstetric complications, independent of multifetal pregnancies. The findings underscore the necessity of optimizing embryo transfer strategies, such as promoting single embryo transfer and implementing enhanced monitoring protocols for high-risk complications in resource-limited settings like Northwest China. This study provides regional evidence to support the development of tailored ART guidelines.

Introduction. The relevance of this study is due to the increasing incidence of ophthalmological pathologies in pregnant women, which impact pregnancy and delivery management. Early diagnosis of such conditions allows for the adjustment of obstetric strategies, reducing risks for both mother and fetus. The aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics and pattern of ophthalmological diseases in pregnant women from 2021 to 2024. Materials and Methods. The study is based on an analysis of 7,265 medical records of pregnant women observed at the Perinatal Center of the Mordovia Republican Clinical Hospital. Each patient underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological examination, including visometry, refractometry, biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, and external examination of the ocular structures. Statistical data processing was performed in Microsoft Excel 2010, with the probability criterion calculated at a significance threshold of p 0.05. Results. The proportion of pregnant women with ophthalmological pathologies in 2021–2024 ranged from 71.6 to 80.9 %. The most common conditions were myopia and retinal angiopathies. A steady increase in the detection of myopia was noted, while the number of angiopathies remained relatively stable (400–500 cases annually). Discussion and Conclusion. The obtained results highlight the need for systematic ophthalmological monitoring of pregnant women, especially in those with high myopia and angiopathies indicating a risk of preeclampsia. Regular examinations can reduce the risk of perinatal complications. The study results will be useful for obstetricians/gynecologists and ophthalmologists in the care of pregnant patients.

The study examines the pathogenetic mechanisms of fetal distress in pregnant women with chronic polyhydramnios, in light of current scientific evidence. The purpose of the study to evaluate the informative value of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations and oxidative stress markers as potential diagnostic and prognostic indicators of fetal distress in pregnant women with chronic polyhydramnios, and to determine their strategic relevance for the early identification and prevention of perinatal complications under conditions of prolonged exposure to exogenous and psycho-emotional stressors. Materials and methods. Thirty women with physiologic pregnancy and 90 pregnant women with chronic polyhydramnios were enrolled. In blood serum obtained following standard collection and centrifugation procedures, VEGF concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); superoxide dismutase and xanthine oxidase activities, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl group concentrations, were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student t test and the Mann–Whitney U test, along with Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis; differences were considered statistically significant at p &lt; 0.05. The research was conducted in accordance with the fundamental principles of bioethics. Statistical analyses were carried out using standard procedures implemented in Microsoft Excel and Statistica SPSS version 10.0 for Windows (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Data are presented as the arithmetic mean ± standard error of the mean (M ± m). The study was performed as part of the the strategic research program of Vinnitsa National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, “Establishing modern aspects of preserving and restoring the health of women of different age groups” (State Registration Number: 01212U109714; January 2020 – December 2024). Results. Chronic polyhydramnios was associated with a significant 20.2% reduction in VEGF concentration and an 18.4% decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, occurring concomitantly with a 29.7% increase in xanthine oxidase activity and accumulation of lipid peroxidation products. The progression to fetal distress was linked to a further deterioration of this imbalance: VEGF levels decreased by 26.4% compared with those in physiologic pregnancy, whereas MDA concentration increased by approximately 1.5-fold. Conclusions. The molecular basis of fetal distress in the setting of polyhydramnios involves a combination of angiogenic insufficiency and uncontrolled oxidative stress, which is potentiated by exogenous factors, including infection and psychoemotional stress.

This systematic review and meta-analysis assess the immunogenicity and maternal-fetal safety profile of RSV prefusion F (RSVpreF) vaccination during pregnancy. PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant studies. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of RSVpreF vaccination in pregnant women were included. Six RCTs, involving 17,212 participants, were analyzed. The vaccine significantly boosted maternal anti-RSV neutralizing antibody levels, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 1.40 for RSV-A and 1.11 for RSV-B, both with high statistical significance. Infants born to vaccinated mothers had a 49% reduced risk of RSV-associated lower respiratory tract illness within 180 days post-vaccination (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.40-0.64). Preterm birth rates did not differ significantly between the vaccine and placebo groups (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.87-1.37). The vaccine was not associated with increased risks of serious adverse events or perinatal complications. Maternal RSVpreF vaccination significantly elevates neutralizing antibody levels against RSV subtypes A and B without increasing the risk of serious adverse events or preterm delivery. These findings support the safety and immunogenicity of RSV vaccination in pregnant women, reinforcing its potential utility in protecting neonates against RSV-related morbidity.

Background: Molar–Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) represents a developmental enamel defect of systemic origin, typically affecting the first permanent molars and often the incisors. Within the limitations of this study, several associations were observed between perinatal factors and MIH-related outcomes. However, most of these connections were not retained in adjusted analyses. Febrile illness during the first year of life showed a significant association with hypersensitivity. Methods: A structured 30-item questionnaire was distributed to mothers of 50 children diagnosed with MIH between February and March 2024. Data was analyzed using chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant, and univariate and multivariate logistic regressions at 95% confidence interval. Clinical diagnosis followed the Weerheijm (EAPD) criteria. Results: Maternal medication during pregnancy (antibiotics, antiepileptics, asthma drugs) was significantly associated with preterm birth (p = 0.01). Low birth weight correlated with tooth eruption disorders (p = 0.009) and perinatal complications such as hypoxia and respiratory distress (p = 0.0001). Fluoride application demonstrated a protective effect against discolorations (p = 0.005), caries (p = 0.002), and hypersensitivity (p = 0.01). In the multivariate model, febrile illness during the first year of life may be associated with hypersensitivity in MIH-affected teeth (aOR = 5.71, 95% CI: 1.01–32.27, p = 0.049). Conclusions: Maternal medication and perinatal complications, particularly low birth weight, were associated with MIH occurrence. Preventive strategies emphasizing maternal health, early screening, and remineralization-based therapies can mitigate long-term oral health impacts.

Does extended embryo culture (EEC) associate with an increased risk of obstetrical, perinatal, or children's health complications? After thorough adjustment, EEC was not associated with widespread increased risks, although a moderate excess risk persisted for a few specific outcomes, notably cardiac anomalies, whereas reduced risks were observed for gestational diabetes, small birthweight, and musculoskeletal-limb anomalies. EEC is increasingly used in IVF cycles. While blastocyst transfer (day-5/6) often improves birth rates, concerns remain about its impact on maternal and child health. In this nationwide longitudinal cohort study, all live-born singletons conceived through IVF-with or without sperm microinjection-and following fresh embryo transfer between 2014 and 2019 in France were included and followed for up to 8 years. Data were obtained from the French National Health System and the National Biomedicine Agency registries. A comparative study was conducted between singletons conceived at either day-2/3 (cleavage-stage embryos group) or day-5/6 (EEC group). Data from both registries were cross-linked to identify obstetrical, perinatal, and health outcomes, including major congenital malformations, hospitalizations, and surgical interventions. Multivariable logistic and survival models were used to adjust for maternal, paternal, and treatment-related factors. A total of 41315 singletons were included (25816 and 15499 from day-2/3 and day-5/6 groups, respectively). Most outcomes were similar between groups, notably the incidence of global major congenital malformations. However, EEC was associated with increased risks of placenta praevia (aOR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.02-1.30), admission in neonatal intensive care unit (aOR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.05-1.29), and cardiac anomalies at age 3years (aHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.21-2.60). Conversely, the risk of gestational diabetes (aOR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.88-1.00; P = 0.041) and small birthweight (aOR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.88-1.00, P = 0.039) was lower, as was the risk of musculoskeletal-limb anomalies (aHR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.42-0.97)-a finding that persisted up to age 7. Other health outcomes were largely comparable. One limitation of this study is that the data refer to live-born singletons, with stillbirths and medical terminations excluded from the analyses. Despite extensive adjustments, residual confounding cannot be excluded. Findings for specific pathologies/malformations should be interpreted with caution because the number of cases was small in some sub-groups. In this large and unique study, after adjusting for multiple maternal, paternal, and cycle-related variables, our findings provide some reassurance regarding the safety of prolonged in vitro embryo culture. A moderate risk remained for a few maternal and child health conditions following EEC-warranting further investigation-whereas the risk was notably lower compared to short embryo culture, particularly for musculoskeletal-limb anomalies. This work was supported by the AOI of University Hospital of Dijon. The authors have no competing interests to disclose. N/A.

The aim of the article — systematization and analysis of modern data to determine the best management tactics for patients suffering from bronchial asthma during pregnancy. Bronchial asthma (BA) is the most common chronic respiratory tract disease in pregnant women, occurring in 4—12% of women. In recent years, a number of studies and reviews have confirmed that uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of obstetric and perinatal complications, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight, and a higher incidence of respiratory diseases in early childhood. According to cohort studies, up to 48% of pregnant women with asthma experience exacerbations, most frequently during the second trimester, with a peak around the sixth month of gestation. Review articles and clinical guidelines emphasize that the benefits of continuing anti-asthma therapy substantially outweigh potential risks. Current evidence also supports the acceptability of biological agents (anti-IgE, anti-IL-5) in severe asthma, provided that risk is assessed individually and decisions are made jointly with the patient. In clinical practice, regular symptom monitoring, peak expiratory flow measurement, and the use of validated questionnaires (e.g., ACT) are recommended, as these measures help to reduce the frequency of complications and hospitalizations. Thus, timely diagnosis, multidisciplinary follow-up, and personalized therapy are key factors in the successful management of pregnancy in women with bronchial asthma.

BackgroundFetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with perinatal complications and potential neurodevelopmental risks, yet mechanistic understanding of metabolic dysregulation remains incomplete. We investigated amniotic fluid metabolites as potential functional biomarkers of fetal-placental dysfunction and explored the possibility of folic acid-mediated epigenetic remediation of metabolic imbalances in FGR.ResultsIn FGR amniotic fluid, hypoxanthine was significantly upregulated, valproic acid (VPA) was significantly downregulated, and arginine/proline metabolism pathways were markedly enriched. Folic acid intervention significantly improved fetal growth parameters (crown–rump length, body weight, and placental weight; all P < 0.001). Compensatory labyrinth zone (Lb) hyperplasia was observed in FGR placenta, with a 40% increase in Lb/Jz ratio, while folic acid supplementation reduced Lb proportion by 10% and appeared to restore placental architecture. Epigenetically, folic acid supplementation suppressed histone deacetylases1 (HDAC1) expression, elevated H3K9ac levels and enhanced trophoblast proliferation.ConclusionsOur research suggests that dysregulation of the VPA-hypoxanthine axis may serve as a hallmark of FGR-associated metabolic stress. Folic acid may exerts potential dual therapeutic effects by correcting placental architecture through Lb normalization and initiating epigenetic reprogramming via HDAC1 inhibition and acetylation at lysine 9 of histone H3 (H3K9ac). These findings indicate that folate metabolism could play a regulatory role in placental gene transcription and fetal growth trajectories.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-025-01985-y.

Introduction: Pregnancy requires adequate nutrition, as a poor diet can affect the health of both the mother and the fetus. Objective: To determine the relationship between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and nutritional status in Peruvian pregnant women treated at a Maternal and Child Health Center. Materials and Methods: Quantitative research based on a non-experimental, descriptive, and correlational design. The sample consisted of 159 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters. The survey was validated and administered by nutritionist interviewers and consisted of 17 questions on the consumption of ultra-processed foods. Scores were considered to be low consumption (17-51 points) and high consumption (52-85 points). The data were analyzed using Spearman's statistical test to relate the consumption of ultra-processed foods and anthropometric indicators, with a significance level of p&lt;0.05. Results: Regarding pre-pregnancy BMI, 40.3% of pregnant women were overweight and 22.6% were obese. 39.0% had high weight gain, and 32.7% had adequate weight gain. Likewise, 58.5% reported high consumption of ultra-processed foods. There is a positive association between ultra-processed foods and PG BMI (Rho = 0.215; p = 0.006), especially snacks, cookies, sweetened cereals, cakes and biscuits, sweets, soft drinks, energy drinks, yogurt, chocolate milk, and seasonings, which are associated with a higher BMI in pregnant women (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The consumption of ultra-processed foods is related to a higher pre-pregnancy BMI, which shows their contribution to overweight and obesity in pregnant women. The high frequency of consumption of products such as snacks, cookies, sweetened cereals, cakes and biscuits, sweets, soft drinks, energy drinks, industrialized yogurt, chocolate milk, and seasonings reflects an unhealthy eating pattern that could increase the risk of obstetric and perinatal complications.

Background and Objectives: Preterm birth is a common obstetric problem. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects an increasing number of children. There is evidence that all subcategories of preterm birth are related to the occurrence of ADHD. The present article reviews the findings of the last two years regarding this association. Materials and Methods: PubMed was screened for relevant articles published in English between January 2024 and November 2025. Keyword combinations of the words “preterm birth”, “prematurity”, “attention deficit disorder”, “attention disorders”, “ADHD”, “preterm” and “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder” were used. A total of 28 articles were retrieved, reviewed and selected. Results: Preterm birth results in higher risk of ADHD, while early preterm births are characterized by an even higher risk of ADHD. Additionally, postnatal complications commonly experienced by preterm infants are associated with the presence of ADHD. It seems that the maternal use of ADHD medications during pregnancy is associated with a high risk of preterm birth, although there is a concern about the role of other psychotropic medications during pregnancy. Various neurodevelopmental disorders are also associated with preterm birth. Maternal use of glucocorticoids combined with preterm birth leads to higher risk of ADHD. However, the outcome of ADHD is shaped by a wide range of social, familiar and biological factors. Conclusions: Prematurity is a significant risk factor for the development of ADHD symptoms in children. However, many biological, environmental, and psychosocial factors, such as neurodevelopmental vulnerability, perinatal complications, maternal health and adverse psychosocial factors, act as regulators in this relationship. Researching and understanding these associations will help in implementing preventive measures in children who are at increased risk of developing ADHD.

Micronutrients are fundamental to support and maintain normal physiological function. Deficiencies of these nutrients are a growing public health concern with potentially devastating consequences. An adequate diet of whole foods is the primary source of micronutrients; supplementation is sometimes necessary. Both deficiency and excess of these nutrients have adverse effects. Common deficiencies include iron, folate, iodine, zinc, and vitamin A, which can present clinically as a syndrome. Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) are common contributors to intellectual impairments, poor growth, perinatal complications, and increased risk for morbidity and mortality. Excess of a select few of these nutrients can result in conditions such as idiopathic intracranial hypertension and diarrhea. Interventions, including supplementation, fortification, and biofortification, can help combat MNDs. This article reviews some common micronutrient imbalances, their clinical manifestations, and treatment interventions.

Introduction and Aim: Adolescent pregnancy carries significant medical, psychological, and social implications. Young maternal age is associated with an increased risk of perinatal complications and may expose underage patients to stigmatization and inappropriate treatment within healthcare settings. The aim of this study was to explore and analyze the experiences of pregnant minors in the context of healthcare professionals’ attitudes and behaviors toward them. Materials and Methods: A qualitative design was used, based on semi-structured interviews. The study included eight women aged 19–23 who had given birth to their first child before turning 18. Eligibility required that childbirth had occurred within the previous five years. Data were collected between March 2024 and February 2025. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, anonymized, and analyzed using content analysis. Results: Participants reported both positive and negative interactions with medical staff. More than half felt stigmatized due to their young age, and several described insufficient information regarding their own health or that of their newborn. Support from close relatives proved crucial for their sense of safety and emotional stability. Early motherhood was perceived as an ambivalent experience that was both challenging and personally transformative. Conclusions: The attitudes of healthcare professionals toward underage patients were inconsistent and often failed to meet standards of respectful, empathetic obstetric care. There is a clear need to increase awareness and strengthen the preparedness of healthcare personnel to work with this vulnerable patient group, as well as to improve access to prenatal education for pregnant minors.

Research on pregnancy in women with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) and its effect on maternal disease activity is limited. Lack of evidence poses significant challenges for patient management. This study aimed to retrospectively characterise the spectrum and course of patient-reported symptoms and complications during pregnancy referring to the EB House Austria patient cohort. Data on pregnancy outcomes, clinical symptoms, and EB disease activity before, during, and after pregnancy were collected using a structured questionnaire. To specify the impact of disease severity, the responders were classified into three groups based on the individual overall EB phenotype (mild, moderate, severe) prior to pregnancy (baseline). The pseudonymised data were analysed descriptively and complemented by a comprehensive literature review. This study assessed 33 pregnancies in 19 women encompassing all major EB subtypes. Most reported parameters, including EB lesional burden, remained stable during pregnancy. A trend towards symptom exacerbation was reported by patients with moderate EB, while those with severe EB more often recalled some symptomatic improvement. Anaemia was documented in 30% of pregnancies, predominantly among moderate to severe EB patients. Vaginal delivery constituted the predominant mode of birth (67%). Caesarean section rates increased with EB severity (0% in mild, 38% in moderate, and 50% in severe EB groups). Among the caesarean deliveries, antenatal vulvovaginal lesions were recalled in 70% of cases. Severe perineal tears were the most common perinatal complication, occurring in 15% of pregnancies and primarily in the moderate and severe cohorts. Due to sample size limitations, no formal statistical hypothesis testing was conducted. Referring to a limited cohort size, our findings suggest that pregnancy management in women with EB is feasible, though antenatal and perinatal complication rates rise with disease severity. Vaginal delivery appears to be a viable option and was the preferred method in most cases. In planned caesarean sections, neuraxial anaesthesia was not associated with adverse events. Early identification and treatment of anaemia in severe EB are critical, and proactive supportive strategies should be implemented to facilitate breastfeeding.

The above allows us to conclude that women of reproductive age with endometriosis need a special approach to planning and managing pregnancy, as well as those who, due to endometriosis-associated infertility, make numerous and unsuccessful attempts to become pregnant. The aim of the study was to analyze the frequency and structure of obstetric and perinatal complications in women with adenomyosis. The frequency and structure of obstetric and perinatal complications were determined in 103 women with various forms of adenomyosis. The structure of obstetric complications: spontaneous miscarriages, very early and early premature births, premature births, placental dysfunction, hypertensive disorders; placenta previa and abnormal placental attachment, as well as bleeding in the postpartum period and subinvolution of the uterus (p&lt;0,05). We have found that the odds and risks of developing obstetric and perinatal complications are significantly increased in pregnant women with adenomyosis.