Rate Of Postpartum Hemorrhage Research Articles

Retrospective analysis of associated factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes of postpartum hemorrhage in the caesarean section of different types of placenta previa

Objective: To analyze associated factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes of postpartum hemorrhage in the caesarean section of puerperae with different types of placenta previa. Methods: This retrospective research was a case-control study. Puerperae with cesarean section of placenta previa from January 2019 to December 2020 in Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University were collected and divided into the<1 000 ml control group or ≥1 000 ml postpartum hemorrhage group according to the amount of blood loss during cesarean section. Differences in continuous variables were analyzed by t-test and categorical variables were analyzed by χ2 test. The risk factors of postpartum hemorrhage were analyzed by logistic multivariate regression. Results: A total of 962 puerperae were enrolled with 773 cases in the control group and 189 cases in the postpartum hemorrhage group. The incidence of gestational weeks, gravidity, parity, induced abortion, placental accreta and preoperative hemoglobin<110 g/L was significantly different between two groups in different types of placenta previa (P<0.001). Logistic multivariate regression model analysis showed that the independent risk factors of postpartum hemorrhage in the caesarean section of low-lying placenta included placental accreta (OR=12.713, 95%CI: 4.296-37.625), preoperative hemoglobin<110 g/L (OR=2.377, 95%CI: 1.062-5.321), and prenatal vaginal bleeding (OR=4.244, 95%CI: 1.865-9.656). The independent risk factors of postpartum hemorrhage in the caesarean section of placenta previa included once induced abortion (OR=2.789, 95%CI:1.189-6.544), induced abortion≥2 (OR=2.843, 95%CI:1.101-7.339), placental accreta (OR=6.079, 95%CI:3.697-9.996), HBsAg positive (OR=3.891, 95%CI:1.385-10.929), and placental attachment to the anterior uterine wall (OR=2.307, 95%CI:1.285-4.142). The rate of postpartum hemorrhage and premature delivery in puerperae with placenta previa was higher than that in puerperae with low-lying placenta (P<0.001). Conclusions: The associated factors of postpartum hemorrhage in puerperae with different types of placenta previa are different. Placenta accreta is the common risk factor of postpartum hemorrhage in puerperae with low-lying placenta and placenta previa.

Methods to Treat Postpartum Hemorrhage: State of the Science

Objective:Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of global maternal death. PPH affects roughly 5% of births worldwide. PPH rates are increasing at alarming rates in many developed countries. This manuscript aims to explore the natural, therapeutic, and economical approaches to breastfeeding, breast and nipple stimulation, and skin-to-skin contact (SSC) as a conventional practice, along with commonly used methods for managing PPH.Method:A total of five articles published in the last 8 years were reviewed, focusing on breastfeeding or breast and nipple stimulation to prevent or treat PPH.Results:SSC and breast and nipple stimulation successfully managed PPH just as well or better than the standard treatment of synthetic oxytocin.Conclusion:Allowing the newborn to have SSC with the new mother through breastfeeding or using a breast pump releases natural oxytocin. Along with standard PPH treatment, this could prove to be an effective standard of care in the event of PPH.

Evaluation of Maternal Near Miss Events at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

Objective To estimate: 1) the prevalence of maternal mortality and severe morbidity (Maternal Near Miss (MNM)); and 2) associated risk factors, at a tertiary referral hospital in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. Methods Prospective data collection of 658 consecutive delivering pregnant patients and their neonates at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital (TGSH) in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, from February 26-June 10, 2020. Demographic and outcome data were collected as part of a quality improvement initiative using the REDCap mobile app. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to investigate the relationship between the key demographic and clinical variables with MNM. Results There were no maternal deaths and 70 MNM during the study period. The median patient age was 26 years (IQR 23-30); 49% of women were nulliparous, and 56% delivered vaginally. Patients had higher odds of experiencing MNM if living in a rural area (OR=3.71, p&lt;0.01) or with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (OR=2.27, p=0.03). The postpartum hemorrhage rate was 1.7%. Conclusion The MNM and mortality rates at TGSH were less than elsewhere in the region. Living in a rural area and having hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were major predictors of MNM events. Multiple areas were identified where quality improvement projects could be developed.

Including Nature and Alternative Methods to Treat Postpartum Hemorrhage: State of the Science

Objective:Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of global maternal death. PPH affects roughly 5% of births worldwide. PPH rates are increasing at alarming rates in many developed countries. This manuscript aims to explore the natural, therapeutic, and economical approaches to breastfeeding, breast and nipple stimulation, and skin-to-skin contact (SSC) as a conventional practice, along with commonly used methods for managing PPH.Method:A total of five articles published in the last 8 years were reviewed, focusing on breastfeeding or breast and nipple stimulation to prevent or treat PPH.Results:SSC and breast and nipple stimulation successfully managed PPH just as well or better than the standard treatment of synthetic oxytocin.Conclusion:Allowing the newborn to have SSC with the new mother through breastfeeding or using a breast pump releases natural oxytocin. Along with standard PPH treatment, this could prove to be an effective standard of care in the event of PPH.

New paradigm for cervico-isthmic pregnancy: conservative management of cervico-isthmic pregnancy leading to successful deliveries.

To establish a new treatment option for cervico-isthmic pregnancy (CIP) other than termination by maintaining pregnancy from diagnosis to delivery. This retrospective observational study included women diagnosed with CIP at Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea, from January 2014 to December 2019. Eight patients were diagnosed with CIP using transvaginal ultrasound and met the following inclusion criteria: (1) preserved and closed cervical canal; and (2) more than half of the uterine cavity above the sac was not involved in sac implantation. Five of the eight mothers decided to maintain their pregnancy after an adequate explanation of the possible risks. The same sonographer assessed fetal and maternal status every 1-2 weeks. Intra- and postoperative indicators, delivery information, and neonatal outcomes were also recorded. The mean patient age was 36 years. In all cases, placenta accreta spectrum and placenta previa were detected using preoperative ultrasonography. A hysterectomy was performed in three cases, and all patients required intensive care unit (ICU) care. The mean operative time was 156 minutes. The rate of postpartum hemorrhage was 40%. Four viable fetuses were delivered. Birth preceding 34 weeks occurred in one patient, who required neonatal ICU hospitalization for 19 days. Conservative treatment with careful diagnosis, management, and sufficient consultation could be an alternative treatment option in women with CIP, particularly older mothers, those with subfertility, and those who expect to have limited future opportunities for a successful pregnancy. Therefore, CIP should be treated as a separate disease entity.

Postpartum hemorrhage among twin pregnancies - Medically assisted versus spontaneously conceived

IntroductionIn singleton pregnancies, an increased risk of Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) have been linked with assisted reproductive technology (ART) and abnormal placentation. It is unknown wheather such association exists in twin pregnancies conceived by Medically assisted reproduction (MAR). The aim of the current study was to compare maternal blood loss among twin pregnancies conceived by different types of MAR treatments to spontaneously conceived twins and to identify the cycle characteristics if an association exits. MethodsRetrospective study conducted on data collected between 2011 and 2020. The study cohort included all twin pregnancies conceived by MAR and born at our institution. Controls were spontaneously conceived twins matched for maternal age on a 1:2 (study: controls) ratio. ResultsOverall 113 MAR twin births categorized into three groups; 25 ovulation induction, 59 fresh ART, 29 frozen-thawed ART cycles, and 226 controls were included. The incidence of PPH was higher among MAR twin pregnancies (5.3%) compared to the controls (4%). The highest incidence was observed among women in the frozen-thawed group (13.8%) which differed significantly compared with the controls (p = 0.024). A significant difference was also observed in the mean decrease of postpartum hemoglobin levels between these two groups (2.13 g/dL versus 1.3 g/dL respectively, p = 0.002). Blood transfusion was nearly 2.5 times more common in the frozen-thawed group (3.4%) compared to the control group (1.3%). DiscussionThe present study demonstrates that frozen embryo transfer (FET) ART-conceived twin pregnancies are associated with a markedly increased rate of PPH compared to spontaneously conceived twins.

Impact of Adherence to a Standardized Oxytocin Induction Protocol on Obstetric and Neonatal Outcomes

Oxytocin protocols are employed to induce uterine contractions and progressive cervical changes, but they are associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine whether compliance with a checklist-based protocol for oxytocin administration was associated with changes in neonatal and maternal outcomes. A retrospective cohort study of 86,786 pregnant women undergoing term (> 37 weeks) induction of labor between January 2015 and December 2017 was performed. Systemwide training in the use of an oxytocin administration protocol was provided to obstetricians and nurses. Pre-use and in-use oxytocin checklists were incorporated into each unit's policies and procedures. Subsequently, charts were reviewed and individually audited by an obstetric nurse who scored each record based on the documentation of variables in an oxytocin administration protocol and ranked adherence as complete or absent. Primary outcomes were postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal ICU (NICU) admission, and delivery by cesarean section. Bivariate analyses (t-tests) were performed on adherent and nonadherent groups for comparison of selected demographic variables and the primary outcome variables. Logistic regression was completed on the primary outcome variable with eight covariates. Among patients with complete adherence to the oxytocin administration protocol, the rate of cesarean section in the unadjusted analysis was 16.20%, compared to 18.54% for those with incomplete adherence; the rates of postpartum hemorrhage were 2.64% vs. 3.14%, respectively, and the rates of NICU admission were 3.03% vs. 3.86%, respectively. In the multivariable logistic regression, complete protocol adherence was associated with significantly lower odds of postpartum hemorrhage (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76-0.94) but higher odds of Cesarean section (adjusted OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01-1.13); the adjusted OR for NICU admission was 0.90, which did not reach statistical significance (95% CI 0.81-1.00). Among the covariates, nulliparity and elective induction were the strongest predictors of the primary outcomes of cesarean section, postpartum hemorrhage, and NICU admission. Adherence to the oxytocin administration protocol was associated with a decrease in postpartum hemorrhage but an increased risk of delivery by cesarean section.

Perinatal Outcomes of Pregnancy in Women with Scarred Uteri.

Uterine scarring is risky for the pregnancy and is closely associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Here, we investigated risk factors and associated perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnant women with uterine scars. This retrospective cohort study was conducted on singleton pregnant women who delivered at the West China Second University Hospital between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. The control group included 13,433 cases without uterine scars. The study group involved 2397 cases with one previous cesarean delivery (PCD), 163 cases with two PCDs, 12 cases with three PCDs, and 184 cases with non-cesarean uterine scars. The study group had a significantly higher incidence of placenta previa (6.4%), placenta percreta (5.3%), preterm delivery (10.3%), postpartum hemorrhage (3.4%), uterine rupture (9.4%), hysterectomy (0.18%), and bladder injury (0.4%) when compared with the control group (P <0.05). The scarred uterus cases with 1, 2, or 3 PCDs had significantly different complications, with the higher PCD frequency correlating with increased rates of placenta previa, placenta percreta, postpartum hemorrhage, uterine rupture, and uterine resection. Moreover, the hospitalization time, cesarean operation time, and intrapartum bleeding in the current pregnancy significantly increased with increasing PCD frequency (P <0.05). Analysis of the association between the duration of the interval between PCD and re-pregnancy and pregnancy complication revealed that the incidence of pernicious placenta previa was statistically higher in cases with intervals of <2 years or ≥5 years (4.7%) than in cases with 2 years ≤ interval time <5 years (2.5%) (P <0.05). Pregnancies with uterine scars may experience higher rates of adverse perinatal outcomes. This calls for increased observation during pregnancy and delivery to reduce maternal and fetal complications.

The impact of epidural analgesia on third stage of labor disorders

To evaluate whether epidural analgesia (EA) is associated with complications of the third stage of labor. In this retrospective population-based cohort study, all women who delivered between the years 1996-2016 in a large tertiary medical center were divided to those who used EA during labor (study group) and those who did not (comparison group). We excluded from the analysis women with multiple pregnancies, congenital malformations, women who underwent a cesarean section, those complicated with uterine rupture in the index pregnancy and those lacking prenatal care. Clinical, demographical and obstetrical characteristics were collected and pregnancy complications and adverse perinatal outcomes were compared between the groups. Univariate analysis was followed by a multivariate analysis to control for confounders. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. During the study period, 209,096 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 43,413 (20.7%) delivered with EA. Significantly higher rates of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), need for blood transfusions and anemia (Hemoglobin less than 10gr/dl) were noted in the study group. A composite of placental complications (including retained placenta, adherent placenta, need for manual removal of the placenta, postpartum curettage, revision of the uterine cavity) was not found to be significantly different between the groups. In a multivariate analysis, after controlling for maternal age, vacuum delivery, polyhydramnios and previous cesarean delivery, EA was found to be an independent risk factor for a composite hemorrhagic outcome (including PPH, need for blood transfusion and anemia). EA was significantly associated with hemorrhagic complications (PPH, need for blood transfusions and anemia) independent of third stage of labor placental complications.

A Resolved Placenta Previa Is Still Associated with Postpartum Hemorrhage.

Our objective was to determine whether resolution of a low-lying placenta or placenta previa is associated with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). This is a retrospective, matched-control cohort study of women who underwent transvaginal sonography during fetal anatomic survey between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation at the University of Pennsylvania from January 2017 to May 2019. Exposure was defined as low-lying placenta (≤1 cm from the internal cervical os) or placenta previa (covering the os) at anatomic survey that was found to be resolved by transvaginal ultrasound in the third trimester. For each exposure, we identified a control patient whose placenta was > 1 cm from internal os at anatomic survey performed on the same day. The primary outcome was PPH at delivery, defined as estimated blood loss ≥ 1,000 mL. A total of 450 women were included (225/group). The exposed group of resolved placental previa included 85.0% with resolved low-lying placenta and 15.0% with resolved previa. The rate of PPH was significantly higher in the exposed group versus controls (9.8% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.03). Women with resolved previa were 2.5 times more likely to experience PPH than controls (adjusted odds ratio = 2.58, 95% confidence interval: 1.17-5.69), even when controlling for parity, prior cesarean, and delivery mode. Women with resolved previa were also more likely to present to triage with bleeding (16.4% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.006), receive antenatal corticosteroids, (9.3% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.006), and receive intravenous iron postpartum (7.6% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.04). Our data demonstrate that women with a resolved low-lying placenta or placenta previa remain at significantly increased risk of bleeding-related complications in pregnancy and during delivery when compared with those who never had a previa. Clinicians should consider this association when counseling patients and performing hemorrhage risk stratification. · Women with resolved previa or low-lying placenta were 2.5 times more likely to experience PPH.. · Women with resolved previa or low-lying placenta were more likely to be induced for bleeding.. · Resolved previa or low-lying placenta is still associated with adverse hemorrhage-related outcomes..

Thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy - a retrospective observational analysis of a Maltese cohort

BackgroundThyroid dysfunction is known to adversely affect pregnancy. This studyevaluates the prevalence of thyroid disorders and explores their associationwith pregnancy complications/comorbidities and modes of delivery in the Maltesepregnant population over a ten year period.DesignA population based observational study.MethodWe analysed data from the National Obstetrics Information Service of theDepartment of Health Informations and Research (NOIS) for all births deliveredin Malta between 2006 and 2016. Cases identified and recorded by NOIS to have had some form of thyroiddysfunction during pregnancy were confirmed by cross-referencing with laboratory results found in patients’medical records and/or iSOFT® database system. Using the Statistical Packagefor the Social sciences (SPSS®) demographic data, pastobstetric and medical history and obstetric outcomes were analysed forpregnancies with thyroid dysfunction and compared to data pertaining to pregnancies in euthyroid patients, that is those with no recorded thyroid dysfunction on NOIS. Chi square/Fisher'sexact test were used to compare categorical variables while ANOVA/Mann-WhitneyU test was used to compare continuous variables. Statistical significance wasdefined by a two-sided p value <0.05.ResultsData was available for 46,283 women (mean [SD] age = 29.2 [5.4] years).587 pregnancies (1.3%) suffered from thyroid dysfunction. Of these, 67.3% werehypothyroid, 3.2% had hyperthyroidism, 28.3% had isolated hypothyroxinaemia(IHT) while 1.2% had a history of thyroid carcinoma. Patients with IHT andhypothyroidism were older than euthyroid patients (p < 0.001). IHT and hypothyroid patients had astatistically significant higher body mass index (BMI) than euthyroid women(p=0.001 for hypothyroid women, p = 0.035 for IHT). Hypothyroid and IHT women were more likely to have had aprevious lower segment caesarean section (p=0.043, and 0.006respectively). Type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes p = 0.012) were more common associatedcomorbidities in hypothyroid pregnancies. Offspring of patients with IHT had ahigher birth weight than those born to euthyroid patients (p=0.009). Patients with hyperthyroidism were found to havea significantly increased risk of early preterm delivery before 34 weeks ofgestation and were also more likely to have suspected intrauterine growthrestriction and low mean birth weight. We report no significantdifferences in past history of obstetric loss, antenatal complications, mode ofdelivery, gestational age at delivery and postpartum haemorrhage rates acrossthyroid categories.ConclusionsAvailable evidence suggests that thyroid dysfunction is more likely in thesetting of older age, and higher body mass index. Moreover, it impacts on neonatalbirth weight, rates of early preterm delivery and intrauterine growthrestriction.

Postpartum Hemorrhage Trends and Outcomes in the United States, 2000-2019.

To analyze temporal trends in and risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage and to analyze the association of risk factors with postpartum hemorrhage-related interventions such as blood transfusion and peripartum hysterectomy. This repeated cross-sectional study analyzed delivery hospitalizations from 2000 to 2019 in the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample. Trends analyses were conducted using joinpoint regression to estimate the average annual percent change (AAPC) with 95% CIs. Unadjusted and adjusted survey-weighted logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the relationship between postpartum hemorrhage risk factors and likelihood of 1) postpartum hemorrhage, 2) postpartum hemorrhage that requires blood transfusion, and 3) peripartum hysterectomy in the setting of postpartum hemorrhage, with unadjusted odds ratios and adjusted odds ratios with 95% CIs as measures of association. Of an estimated 76.7 million delivery hospitalizations, 2.3 million (3.0%) were complicated by postpartum hemorrhage. From 2000 to 2019, the rate of postpartum hemorrhage increased from 2.7% to 4.3% (AAPC 2.6%, 94% CI 1.7-3.5%). Over the study period, the proportion of deliveries to individuals with at least one postpartum hemorrhage risk factor increased from 18.6% to 26.9% (AAPC 1.9%, 95% CI 1.7-2.0%). Among deliveries complicated by postpartum hemorrhage, blood transfusions increased from 5.4% to 16.7% from 2000 to 2011 and then decreased from 16.7% to 12.6% from 2011 to 2019. Peripartum hysterectomy among hospitalized individuals with postpartum hemorrhage increased from 1.4% to 2.4% from 2000 to 2009, did not change significantly from 2009 to 2016, and then decreased significantly from 2.1% to 0.9% from 2016 to 2019 (AAPC -27.0%, 95% CI -35.2% to -17.6%). Risk factors associated with postpartum hemorrhage and transfusion and hysterectomy in the setting of postpartum hemorrhage included prior cesarean delivery with previa or placenta accreta, placenta previa without prior cesarean delivery, and antepartum hemorrhage or placental abruption. Postpartum hemorrhage and related risk factors increased over a 20-year period. Despite the increased postpartum hemorrhage rates, blood transfusions, and hysterectomy rates decreased in recent years.

Early Experiences in the Von Willebrand Factor in Pregnancy (VIP) Study

Background: Plasma levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII) increase dramatically during healthy pregnancy. These increases are markedly less pronounced in pregnancies affected by von Willebrand disease (VWD). Individuals who have VWD have high rates of primary and secondary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), despite treatment. In 2021, guidance was published on the prophylactic use of tranexamic acid postpartum and target VWF levels for neuraxial anesthesia. Guidance is still lacking on VWF target levels for delivery and on the duration of treatment postpartum due to a lack of evidence. Aims: To improve our understanding of bleeding during and after childbirth in individuals with VWD whose VWF levels are maintained >100%. Methods: The VIP Study (NCT04146376) is an investigator-initiated, prospective, open-label, multicenter cohort study in the US designed to document the rate of PPH in VWD when VWF levels are maintained >100% during and after childbirth (Fig. 1). Pregnant patients ≥18 years of age and diagnosed with VWD type 1 (VWF ≤30%), type 2, or type 3 are eligible for enrollment. Patients whose third trimester VWF levels do not reach 100% are termed "non-correctors", while patients with third trimester VWF levels >100% are termed "correctors". Non-correctors will receive VWF/FVIII replacement therapy (wilate®) targeting VWF levels of 100-150% for delivery. VWF replacement will continue postpartum, targeting VWF levels of 100-150% through postpartum Day 3 and VWF levels of 50-100% thereafter until postpartum Day 5-10. All patients (non-correctors and correctors) will receive antifibrinolytic therapy (tranexamic acid) postpartum for 14 days. Target enrollment is completion of 65 non-correctors and up to 30 correctors. The primary outcome is the rate of PPH within the first 24 hours postpartum. Secondary outcomes include PPH from 24 hours to 6 weeks postpartum, laboratory assessment of coagulation, and safety, including adverse drug reactions and thrombotic events. Results: As of March 2022, 11 sites across the US have been initiated and 9 patients have been enrolled. Conclusion: The VIP study aims to address the knowledge gap regarding bleeding during and after childbirth in VWD. The data obtained will provide important information to help guide future steps to study and reduce PPH in VWD and to develop evidence-based management for these patients. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Advanced maternal age and adverse obstetrical and neonatal outcomes of singleton pregnancies

ObjectiveTo assess the impact of advanced maternal age on pregnancy and childbirth outcomes of singleton pregnancies. Study designWe retrospectively assessed singleton pregnant mothers who gave birth at Khaleej-e-Fars Hospital in Bandar Abbas, Iran, from January 2020 to January 2022. Demographic and obstetrical factors include educational level, medical insurance, residency place, access to prenatal care facilities, number of prenatal care visits, smoking status, gestational age, parity, infertility, maternal comorbidities, preeclampsia, eclampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), macrosomia, placenta abnormalities (previa/acreta), placenta abruption, chorioamnionitis, meconium fluid, fetal distress, methods of delivery, rate of cesarean section (CS), perineal lacerations, postpartum hemorrhage, childbirth injury, shoulder dystocia, congenital malformation, neonatal asphyxia, and unfavorable maternal and neonatal outcome were compared between two groups. The Chi-square test assessed the relationship between categorical factors and maternal age groups. The influence of advanced maternal age on the risk of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes was evaluated using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. ResultsOf 8354 singleton deliveries, 22.2% belonged to advanced-age mothers. Advanced-age mothers had less education than those aged 20–34 years old. Chronic hypertension, cardiovascular disease, overt diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction were more prevalent among advanced-age mothers. Compared with mothers aged 20–34 years, mothers aged 35 years and higher had a significantly higher risk of gestational diabetes (aOR: 3.18, 95%CI: 1.56–6.95), preeclampsia (aOR: 2.91, 95%CI: 1.35–4.72), placenta abnormalities (aOR: 1.09, 95%CI: 0.77–1.94), CS (aOR: 3.16, 95%CI: 1.51–3.87), postpartum hemorrhage (aOR: 1.94, 95%CI: 1.24–2.61), intensive care unit admission (aOR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.15–1.99), LBW (aOR: 1.35, 95%CI: 0.97–2.96), preterm birth (aOR: 2.36, 95%CI: 1.65–4.83), stillbirth (aOR: 1.18, 95%CI: 1.01–3.16), and neonatal intensive care admission (aOR: 2.09, 95%CI: 0.73–3.92). According to bivariate regression, the risk of meconium fluid was lower in advanced-age mothers; however, the result of multivariate logistic regression found no correlation between advanced age and the Incidence of meconium fluid. ConclusionAdvanced-age mothers are at increased risk of adverse pregnancy and childbirth outcomes, which persist even after adjusting for several potential confounders.

Reducing Hemorrhage-Related Maternal Morbidity Using Interdisciplinary Simulation Training.

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a major cause of preventable maternal morbidity in the United States. Postpartum hemorrhage simulations were developed to improve provider recognition and treatment; however, there exist few studies that investigate their effects on individual outcomes. Our objective is to estimate the effect of a simulation-based educational intervention on PPH-related maternal morbidity outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of hemorrhage outcomes at a single institution between March 2012 and January 2016 during the implementation of a high-fidelity PPH simulation. Women with PPH defined as an estimated blood loss greater than 500 mL for vaginal delivery and 1000 mL for cesarean delivery were included. The primary outcome was a composite of hemorrhage-related maternal morbidity (maternal death, hysterectomy, intensive care unit admission, blood transfusion, or unanticipated procedures to treat postpartum bleeding). Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for confounding variables between presimulation and postsimulation outcomes. During the study period, 19,927 deliveries occurred with 4.5% of patients (888) experiencing hemorrhage. Women in the presimulation (n = 278) versus postsimulation groups (n = 610) had similar demographics. Although the PPH rate increased after simulation [2.8% pre vs. 6.1% post, odds ratio (OR), 2.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.95-2.60], composite hemorrhage-related morbidity was lower after simulation training (44% pre vs. 35% post; OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.52-0.93). This reduction persisted after adjusting for confounding variables of mode of delivery and time from delivery to first uterotonic use (adjusted OR, 0.66; 95%, CI 0.49-0.89). Despite an increased PPH rate, simulation education was associated with a reduction in a hemorrhage-related maternal composite morbidity.

Trial of labor after cesarean delivery for estimated large for gestational age fetuses: A retrospective cohort study

ObjectiveAlthough ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight ≥90th percentile is not associated with a greater risk for uterine rupture, trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) is considered relatively contraindicated for macrosomic fetuses. Hence, when an estimated fetal weight of 4000 g is detected, TOLAC is usually avoided.Our aim was to evaluate the obstetrical outcome and safety of TOLAC in women with estimated large for gestational age fetuses (eLGA) (≥90th percentile). Study DesignOur retrospective cohort study encompassed all pregnant women with an estimated fetal weight ≥90th percentile for gestational age, admitted to a single tertiary care center between January 2012-July 2017 for TOLAC. Results1949 women met the inclusion criteria; 78 (4%) eLGA and 1871 (96%) controls. Fifty-five (70.5%) women in the study group had experienced a successful vaginal delivery compared to 1506 (80.5%) of the controls (p = 0.03). The rate of obstetrical complications, including scar dehiscence, uterine rupture, a 3rd/4th degree perineal tear or shoulder dystocia were comparable. The rate of post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) increased in the study group compared to the controls (7.7 % vs.1.7%; p = 0.001). ConclusionTOLAC for eLGA fetuses can be considered safe, however, lower successful rates of vaginal births after a cesarean delivery and an increased PPH rate, may be expected.

Postpartum hemorrhage drills or simulations and adverse outcomes: a systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis

Objective To compare the rates of adverse outcomes with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) before and after implementation of drills or simulation exercises Study eligibility criteria We included all English studies that reported on rates of PPH and associated complications during the pre- and post-implementation of interventional exercises. Study apprasial and synthesis methods Two investigators independently reviewed the abstracts, and full articles for eligibility of all studies. Inconsistencies related to study evaluation or data extraction were resolved by a third author. The co-primary outcomes were the rate of PPH and of any transfusion; the secondary outcomes included admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), transfusion ≥ 4 units of packed red blood cells, hysterectomy, or maternal death. Study effects were combined by Bayesian meta-analysis and reported as risk ratios (RR) and 95% credible intervals (Cr). Results We reviewed 142 full length articles. Of these, 18 publications, with 355,060 deliveries—150,562 (42%) deliveries during the pre-intervention and 204,498 (57.6%) deliveries in the post-interventional period—were included in the meta-analysis. Using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, only three studies were considered good quality, and none of them were done in the US. The rate of PPH prior to intervention was 5.06% and 5.46% afterwards (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.87–1.36; probability of reduction in the diagnosis being 21%). The likelihood of transfusion decreased from 1.68% in the pre-intervention to 1.27% in the post-intervention period (RR 0.80, 95% Cr 0.57–1.09). The overall probability of reduction in transfusion was 93%, albeit it varied among studies done in non-US countries (96%) versus in the US (23%). Transfusion of 4 units or more of blood occurred in 0.44% of deliveries before intervention and 0.37% afterwards (RR of 0.85, 95% CI 0.50–1.52), with the overall probability of reduction being 72% (76% probability of reduction in studies from non-US countries and 49% reduction with reports from the US). Surgical interventions to manage PPH, which was not reported in any US studies, occurred in 0.14% before intervention and 0.28% afterwards (RR 1.29; 95% CI 0.56–3.06; probability of reduction 27%). Admission to the ICU occurred in 0.10% before intervention and 0.08% subsequently (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.58–1.43), with the overall probability of reduction being 65% (81% in studies from non-US countries and 27% from the study done in the US). Maternal death occurred in 0.17% in the pre-intervention period and 0.09% during the post-intervention (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.33–1.05; probability of reduction 93% in studies from non-US countries and 82% in one study from the US). Conclusions Interventions to reduce the sequelae of PPH are associated with decrease in adverse outcomes. The conclusion, however, ought not to be accepted reflexively for the US population. All of the studies on the topic done in the US are of poor quality and the associated probability of reduction in sequelae are consistently lower than those done in other countries. Synopsis Since the putative benefits of PPH drills or simulation exercises are based on poor quality pre- and post-intervention trials, policies recommending them ought to be revisited.

The incidence, complications, and treatment of iron deficiency in pregnancy.

Iron deficiency and/or iron deficiency anemia (IDA) complicate nearly 50% of pregnancies globally, negatively impacting both maternal and fetal outcomes. Iron deficiency can cause a range of symptoms that range from aggravating to debilitating including fatigue, poor quality of life, pagophagia, and restless leg syndrome. Iron deficiency and IDA are also associated with maternal complications including preterm labor, increased rates of cesarean delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, and maternal death. Fetal complications include increased rates of low birth weight and small for gestational age newborns. Prenatal maternal anemia has also been associated with autism spectrum disorders in the neonate, although causation is not established. Deficiency in the newborn is associated with compromised memory, processing, and bonding, with some of these deficits persisting into adulthood. Despite the prevalence and consequences associated with iron deficiency in pregnancy, data show that it is routinely undertreated. Due to the physiologic changes of pregnancy, all pregnant individuals should receive oral iron supplementation. However, the bioavailability of oral iron is poor and it is often ineffective at preventing and treating iron deficiency. Likewise, it frequently causes gastrointestinal symptoms that can worsen the quality of life in pregnancy. Intravenous iron formulations administered in a single or multiple dose series are now available. There is increasing data suggesting that newer intravenous formulations are safe and effective in the second and third trimesters and should be strongly considered in pregnant individuals without optimal response to oral iron repletion.

Outcomes of Pregnancy Termination of Dead Fetus in Utero in Second Trimester by Misoprostol with Various Regimens.

Objective: To determine the efficacy and adverse outcomes of misoprostol with various regimens for the second-trimester-pregnancy termination of a dead fetus in utero (DFIU). Patients and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study, based on the prospective database, was conducted on pregnancies with dead fetuses in utero in the second trimester. All patients underwent pregnancy termination with various regimens of misoprostol. Results: A total of 199 pregnancies meeting the inclusion criteria were included. The mean age of the participants and the mean gestational age were 30.2 years and 21.1 weeks, respectively. The two most common regimens were 400 mcg injected intravaginally every six hours and 400 mcg taken orally every four hours. In the analysis of the overall efficacy, including all regimens, the mean fetal delivery time was 18.9 h. When considering only the cases involving a delivery within 48 h (success cases), the mean fetal delivery time was 13.6 h. The rates of fetal delivery for all cases at 12, 24, 36, and 48 h were 50.3%, 83.8%, 89.3%, and 93.9%. In the comparison between the various regimens, there were no significant differences in the rate of fetal delivery at 12, 24, 36, and 48 h and adverse effects such as chill, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and other parameters such as the requirement for intravenous analgesia, the requirement for curettage for incomplete abortions, the mean total dose of misoprostol, and the rate of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Nevertheless, the rate of fever was significantly higher in the regimen of intravaginal insertion of 400 mcg every six hours and that of the requirement for oxytocin was significantly higher in the regimen of oral supplementation of 400 mcg every four hours. Conclusions: The overall success rate within 48 h was 93.6%, which was not different among the various misoprostol regimens. In addition, there were no significant differences in the mean fetal delivery times and the rates of fetal delivery at 12, 24, 36, and 48 h. However, some parameters such as fever, oxytocin requirement, and mean total dose of misoprostol were statistically significant between regimens. In the aspect of global health, misoprostol can be a good option in clinical practice, especially in geographical areas with low-resource levels.

Comparison of Clinical Pregnancy Outcomes after Fresh and Frozen Embryo Transfer.

Objectives To analyze the clinical outcomes of the patients who underwent fresh or frozen embryo transfer, as well as the neonatal outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of women who underwent in vitro fertilization with fresh and frozen embryo transfer from January 2019 to January 2021. All of the included embryo transfers resulted in live births at ≥28 weeks of gestation. All of the patients were divided into two groups according to the assisted reproductive technique that was used (fresh embryo transfer group (n = 101) and frozen embryo transfer group (n = 125)). Both groups were divided into subgroups based on a maternal age of ≥35 years. Result(s). Between the two groups, only the cesarean section rate was higher in the frozen transfer group, while no differences were shown for other outcomes. There were significant differences in the gestational hypertension and postpartum hemorrhage rates based on the subgroup comparison. No significant differences were detected in the offspring. Conclusions Comparing fresh and frozen embryo transfers did not reveal any significant superiority. Venerable age exerts an apparent influence on pregnancy complications. Frozen embryo transfer is not always the best choice.