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Adesanya AM, Barrett S, Moffat M, Aquino MRJ, Nicholson W, Turner G, Cook E, Tyndall S, Rankin J. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on expectant and new parents' experience of pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, parental responsiveness and sensitivity, and bonding and attunement in high-income countries: a systematic review of the evidence. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066963. [PMID: 36523240 PMCID: PMC9748518 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review the evidence on how pregnancy, birth experience, breast feeding, parental responsiveness and sensitivity, and bonding and attunement were impacted by COVID-19. METHODS We searched eight literature databases and websites of relevant UK-based organisations. The review focused on evidence during pregnancy and the early years (0-5 years). Studies of any study design published in English from 1 March 2020 to 15 March 2021 and conducted in high-income countries were included. Screening and data extraction were undertaken in duplicate. Evidence was synthesised using a narrative approach. Study quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. RESULTS The search yielded 9776 publications, of which 26 met our inclusion criteria. Significant knowledge gaps on how COVID-19 affected pregnancy and breast feeding limited healthcare providers' ability to provide consistent evidence-based information and care at the start of the pandemic. There was an enduring sense of loss about loved ones being restricted from taking part in key moments. Parents were concerned about the limitations of virtual healthcare provision. Some parents reported more opportunities for responsive breast feeding and improved parent-infant bonding due to reduced social and work pressures. Women from minoritised ethnic groups were less likely to continue breast feeding and attributed this to a lack of face-to-face support. CONCLUSIONS The evidence suggests that new and expectant families have been both negatively and positively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions. The impacts on parents' opportunities to bond with their young children and to be attuned to their needs were felt unequally. It is important that emergency response policies consider the mother and the partner as a family unit when making changes to the delivery of maternal and child health and care services, so as to mitigate the impact on the family and existing health inequalities. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021236769.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adenike Motunrayo Adesanya
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Simon Barrett
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Malcolm Moffat
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Maria Raisa Jessica Aquino
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North East and North Cumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Wendy Nicholson
- Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Gillian Turner
- Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Emma Cook
- Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Sarah Tyndall
- Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, UK Department of Health and Social Care, London, UK
| | - Judith Rankin
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North East and North Cumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Jakubowski BE, Stevens R, Wilson H, Lavallee L, Brittain L, Crawford C, Hodgkinson J, Hinton L, Mackillop L, Chappell LC, McManus RJ, Tucker KL. Cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study of self-testing for proteinuria during hypertensive pregnancies: The UDIP study. BJOG 2022; 129:2142-2148. [PMID: 35412672 PMCID: PMC9790635 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the accuracy of self-testing for proteinuria during pregnancy. DESIGN Diagnostic accuracy study. SETTING Antenatal clinics, maternity assessment units and inpatient wards at three hospital sites. POPULATION OR SAMPLE 345 pregnant women. METHODS Pregnant women self-tested in-clinic for urinary protein using visually read dipsticks with samples then sent for laboratory estimation of the spot protein-creatinine ratio (PCR) (primary reference test). Secondary index tests included testing by antenatal healthcare professionals and an automated colorimetric reader. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and likelihood ratios were calculated for self-testing (primary index test) along with healthcare professional and colorimetric testing compared to the primary reference test (PCR). RESULTS 335/345 (97%) had sufficient data to be included in the analysis. Self-testing had a sensitivity of 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62-0.79) and a specificity of 0.89 (95% CI 0.84-0.92) compared to PCR. Sensitivity and specificity of testing by healthcare professionals and the colorimetric reader were similar: sensitivity 0.73 (95% CI 0.64-0.80) and 0.78 (95% CI 0.69-0.85), respectively; specificity 0.88 (95% CI 0.82-0.92) and 0.83 (95% CI 0.78-0.88), respectively. CONCLUSION Pregnant women can visually read a dipstick for urinary protein with similar accuracy to antenatal healthcare professionals. Automated colorimetric testing was not significantly different, in contrast to some previous studies. Self-testing has the potential to form part of a self-monitoring regime in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Stevens
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Hannah Wilson
- Department of Women and Children's HealthKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Layla Lavallee
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Lesley Brittain
- Birmingham Women and Children's HospitalNHS Foundation TrustOxfordUK
| | - Carole Crawford
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - James Hodgkinson
- Institute of Applied Health Research, Murray Learning Centre, College of Medical and Dental SciencesUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Lisa Hinton
- THIS Institute, University of Cambridge, Clifford Allbutt Building, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUK
| | - Lucy Mackillop
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Lucy C. Chappell
- Department of Women and Children's HealthKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Richard J. McManus
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Drandić D, Drglin Z, Mihevc Ponikvar B, Bohinec A, Ćerimagić A, Radetić J, Ružičić J, Kurbanović M, Covi B, Valente EP, Mariani I, Lazzerini M, Drandić D, Kurbanović M, Virginie R, de La Rochebrochard E, Löfgren K, Miani C, Batram‐Zantvoort S, Wandschneider L, Lazzerini M, Valente EP, Covi B, Mariani I, Morano S, Chertok I, Hefer E, Artzi‐Medvedik R, Pumpure E, Rezeberga D, Jansone‐Šantare G, Jakovicka D, Knoka AR, Vilcāne KP, Liepinaitienė A, Kondrakova A, Mizgaitienė M, Juciūtė S, Arendt M, Tasch B, Nedberg IH, Kongslien S, Vik ES, Baranowska B, Tataj‐Puzyna U, Węgrzynowska M, Costa R, Barata C, Santos T, Rodrigues C, Dias H, Otelea MR, Radetić J, Ružičić J, Drglin Z, Ponikvar BM, Bohinec A, Brigidi S, Castañeda LM, Elden H, Sengpiel V, Linden K, Zaigham M, De Labrusse C, Abderhalden A, Pfund A, Thorn H, Grylka S, Gemperle M, Mueller A. Women's perspectives on the quality of hospital maternal and newborn care around the time of childbirth during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the IMAgiNE EURO study in Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2022; 159 Suppl 1:54-69. [PMID: 36530003 PMCID: PMC9877897 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the quality of maternal and newborn care (QMNC) in countries of the former Yugoslavia. METHOD Women giving birth in a facility in Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina between March 1, 2020 and July 1, 2021 answered an online questionnaire including 40 WHO standards-based quality measures. RESULTS A total of 4817 women were included in the analysis. Significant differences were observed across countries. Among those experiencing labor, 47.4%-62.3% of women perceived a reduction in QMNC due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 40.1%-69.7% experienced difficulties in accessing routine antenatal care, 60.3%-98.1% were not allowed a companion of choice, 17.4%-39.2% reported that health workers were not always using personal protective equipment, and 21.2%-53.8% rated the number of health workers as insufficient. Episiotomy was performed in 30.9%-62.8% of spontaneous vaginal births. Additionally, 22.6%-55.9% of women received inadequate breastfeeding support, 21.5%-62.8% reported not being treated with dignity, 11.0%-30.5% suffered abuse, and 0.7%-26.5% made informal payments. Multivariate analyses confirmed significant differences among countries, with Slovenia showing the highest QMNC index, followed by Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Serbia. CONCLUSION Differences in QMNC among the countries of the former Yugoslavia during the COVID-19 pandemic were significant. Activities to promote high-quality, evidence-based, respectful care for all mothers and newborns are urgently needed. CLINICALTRIALS gov Identifier: NCT04847336.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zalka Drglin
- National Institute of Public HealthLjubljanaSlovenia
| | | | - Anja Bohinec
- National Institute of Public HealthLjubljanaSlovenia
| | | | | | | | | | - Benedetta Covi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child HealthInstitute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”TriesteItaly
| | - Emanuelle Pessa Valente
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child HealthInstitute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”TriesteItaly
| | - Ilaria Mariani
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child HealthInstitute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”TriesteItaly
| | - Marzia Lazzerini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child HealthInstitute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS “Burlo Garofolo”TriesteItaly
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McLeish J, Harrison S, Quigley M, Alderdice F. Learning from a crisis: a qualitative study of the impact on mothers' emotional wellbeing of changes to maternity care during the COVID-19 pandemic in England, using the National Maternity Survey 2020. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:868. [PMID: 36419009 PMCID: PMC9684911 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05208-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy and the postnatal period can be times of psychosocial stress and insecurity, but high quality maternity care and social support can help mothers cope with stress and feel more secure. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated social and economic disruption increased rates of antenatal and postnatal stress, anxiety and depression, and also had profound impacts on the organisation of maternity services in England. METHODS This was a qualitative descriptive study of the impact of pandemic-related changes to maternity care on mothers' emotional wellbeing, using inductive thematic analysis of open text responses to the National Maternity Survey (NMS) 2020 in England. A random sample of 16,050 mothers who gave birth 11-24th May 2020 were invited to take part in the survey, and 4,611 responded, with 4,384 answering at least one open text question. RESULTS There were three themes: 'Chaos: impact of uncertainty', 'Abandoned: impact of reduction in care', and 'Alone: impact of loss of social support'. Mothers valued maternity care and many experienced additional stress from chaotic changes and reduction in care during the pandemic; from health professionals' own uncertainty and anxiety; and from restrictions on essential social support during pregnancy, labour and birth. Others felt that health professionals had communicated and cared for them well despite the changes and restrictions, and these mothers felt psychologically safe. CONCLUSIONS Planning for future crises should include considering how necessary adaptations to care can be implemented and communicated to minimise distress; ensuring that mothers are not deprived of social support at the time when they are at their most vulnerable; and supporting the psychological welfare of staff at a time of enormous pressure. There are also lessons for maternity care in 'normal' times: that care is highly valued, but trust is easily lost; that some mothers come into the maternity system with vulnerabilities that can be ameliorated or intensified by the attitudes of staff; that every effort should be made to welcome a mother's partner or chosen companion into maternity care; and that high quality postnatal care can make a real difference to mothers' wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny McLeish
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sian Harrison
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria Quigley
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Fiona Alderdice
- NIHR Policy Research Unit in Maternal and Neonatal Health and Care, National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Zheng X, Zhang J, Ye X, Lin X, Liu H, Qin Z, Chen D, Zhan C. Navigating through motherhood in pregnancy and postpartum periods during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. J Nurs Manag 2022; 30:3958-3971. [PMID: 36194367 PMCID: PMC9874529 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this work is to critically appraise and synthesize the qualitative studies on the experiences, perspectives, and consequences of pregnant women experiencing motherhood during the COVID-19 pandemic. BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a threat to the health of pregnant women. Such a pandemic disrupted their routine care, as well as normal daily life. However, little is known about their coping strategies to the changes brought by COVID-19. EVALUATION A qualitative systematic review was conducted according to the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist. A meta-aggregative approach rooted in pragmatism and Husserlian transcendental phenomenology was used to synthesize the findings. Dependability and credibility of both study findings and synthesized findings were appraised by Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) ConQual process. KEY ISSUES Key issues include (a) pregnant women experienced changes in routine care, (b) pregnant women used a range of strategies to cope with the consequence of the pandemic, (c) pregnant women struggled to embrace motherhood, and (d) pregnant women received different levels of social support. CONCLUSION Facing challenges caused by the pandemic, pregnant women used a variety of strategies to cope with and adapt to the changes, but sometimes the adaption is limited. Emotional, instrumental, and informational support should be provided to them in an accessible way. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT As an essential part of policymakers, nursing managers should consider the balance between restriction and the accessibility of maternity care. It is also crucial for them to consider how to provide necessary support in an accessible way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xutong Zheng
- Department of NursingMindong Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical UniversityNingdeChina,School of NursingFujian University of Traditional Chinese MedicineFuzhouChina
| | - Jiayu Zhang
- School of NursingFujian University of Traditional Chinese MedicineFuzhouChina
| | - Xinxin Ye
- School of Public HealthZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaoyi Lin
- School of NursingFujian University of Traditional Chinese MedicineFuzhouChina
| | - Huanju Liu
- Women's Hospital and the Institute of GeneticsZhenjiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Zhuzhu Qin
- School of NursingFujian University of Traditional Chinese MedicineFuzhouChina
| | - Danfeng Chen
- School of NursingFujian University of Traditional Chinese MedicineFuzhouChina
| | - Chenju Zhan
- Department of NursingMindong Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical UniversityNingdeChina
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O'Carroll JE, Zucco L, Warwick E, Arbane G, Moonesinghe R, El-Boghdadly K, Guo N, Carvalho B, Sultan P. Obstetric services in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: A national survey. Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med 2022; 41:101137. [PMID: 35914704 PMCID: PMC9335395 DOI: 10.1016/j.accpm.2022.101137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of obstetric patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to human-to-human transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires unique considerations. Many aspects of labour and delivery practice required adaptation in response to the global pandemic and were supported by guidelines from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecologists. The adoption and adherence to these guidelines is unknown. METHODS Participating centres in "Quality of Recovery in Obstetric Anaesthesia study-a multicentre study" (ObsQoR) completed an electronic survey based on the provision of services and care related to COVID-19 in October 2021. The survey was designed against the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists COVID-19 guidelines. RESULTS One hundred and five of the 107 participating centres completed the survey (98% response rate representing 54% of all UK obstetric units). The median [IQR] annual number of deliveries among the included sites was 4389 [3000-5325]. Ninety-nine of the 103 (94.3%) sites had guidelines for the management of peripartum women with COVID-19. Sixty-one of 105 (58.1%) sites had specific guidance for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis. Thirty-seven of 104 (35.6%) centres restricted parturient birthing plans if a positive diagnosis of COVID-19 was made. A COVID-19 vaccination referral pathway encouraging full vaccination for all pregnant women was present in 63/103 centres (61.2%). CONCLUSION We found variability in care delivered and adherence to guidelines related to COVID-19. The clinical implications for this related to quality of peripartum care is unclear, however there remains scope to improve pathways for immunisation, birth plans and VTE prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Edward O'Carroll
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Liana Zucco
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Gill Arbane
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ramani Moonesinghe
- Surgical Outcomes Research Centre, Centre for Peri-Operative Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - N Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Brendan Carvalho
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Pervez Sultan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Dowling S, Douglass E, Lucas G, Johnson C. Supporting women with learning disabilities in infant feeding decisions: UK health care professionals' experiences. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 19:e13432. [PMID: 36147016 PMCID: PMC9749617 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Women with learning disabilities are less likely to breastfeed than other women. They may find it hard to understand or learn feeding techniques or know that they have infant feeding choices. This population may be supported during their pregnancies by a range of professionals with differing priorities and responsibilities towards both the mother and the baby. This puts considerable pressure on health care professionals including, but not limited to, midwives, infant feeding specialists, health visitors and learning disability nurses. Those who support women with learning disabilities through their journey into motherhood have a responsibility to ensure the women in their care have the information they need to make decisions about a range of issues, including infant feeding. In the absence of dedicated lactation consultants, this is one of many issues to be discussed within time-limited appointments. Little is known about the experience of supporting women with learning disabilities to make infant feeding decisions from the point of view of health professionals. Using a qualitative descriptive research design, we conducted online, semistructured interviews with seven UK health professionals about their experience of supporting women with learning disabilities in infant feeding. Thematic analysis identified three themes: the importance of health professionals' having unconditional, positive regard; the need for an individualised approach to supporting women to make infant-feeding decisions; and being part of the support network. This suggests that women with learning disabilities can make and put into practice infant feeding decisions if they have access to the right support at the right time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Dowling
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, Centre for Public Health and Wellbeing, University of the West of EnglandGlenside CampusBristolUK,Bristol Medical School, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Emma Douglass
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, University of the West of EnglandGlenside CampusBristolUK
| | - Geraldine Lucas
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, University of the West of EnglandGlenside CampusBristolUK
| | - Clare Johnson
- Faculty of Arts, Creative Industries and EducationUniversity of the West of England, ArnolfiniBristolUK
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Evans C, Evans K, Booth A, Timmons S, Jones N, Nazmeen B, Sunney C, Clowes M, Clancy G, Spiby H. Realist inquiry into Maternity care @ a Distance (ARM@DA): realist review protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062106. [PMID: 36127105 PMCID: PMC9490633 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One of the most commonly reported COVID-19-related changes to all maternity services has been an increase in the use of digital clinical consultations such as telephone or video calling; however, the ways in which they can be optimally used along maternity care pathways remain unclear. It is imperative that digital service innovations do not further exacerbate (and, ideally, should tackle) existing inequalities in service access and clinical outcomes. Using a realist approach, this project aims to synthesise the evidence around implementation of digital clinical consultations, seeking to illuminate how they can work to support safe, personalised and appropriate maternity care and to clarify when they might be most appropriately used, for whom, when, and in what contexts? METHODS AND ANALYSIS The review will be conducted in four iterative phases, with embedded stakeholder involvement: (1) refining the review focus and generating initial programme theories, (2) exploring and developing the programme theories in light of evidence, (3) testing/refining the programme theories and (4) constructing actionable recommendations. The review will draw on four sources of evidence: (1) published literature (searching nine bibliographic databases), (2) unpublished (grey) literature, including research, audit, evaluation and policy documents (derived from Google Scholar, website searches and e-thesis databases), (3) expertise contributed by service user and health professional stakeholder groups (n=20-35) and (4) key informant interviews (n=12). Included papers will consist of any study design, in English and from 2010 onwards. The review will follow the Realist and Meta-narrative Evidence Synthesis Evolving Standards quality procedures and reporting guidance. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from the University of Nottingham, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Ethics Committee (FMHS 426-1221). Informed consent will be obtained for all key informant interviews. Findings will be disseminated in a range of formats relevant to different audiences. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021288702.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catrin Evans
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kerry Evans
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Andrew Booth
- ScHARR, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Nia Jones
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Benash Nazmeen
- School of Allied Health Professionals and Midwifery, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | | | - Mark Clowes
- ScHARR, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Georgia Clancy
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Helen Spiby
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Skirrow H, Barnett S, Bell S, Mounier-Jack S, Kampmann B, Holder B. Women's views and experiences of accessing pertussis vaccination in pregnancy and infant vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-methods study in the UK. Vaccine 2022; 40:4942-4954. [PMID: 35811204 PMCID: PMC9247266 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.06.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 changed access to healthcare, including vaccinations, in the United Kingdom (UK). This study explored UK women's experiences of accessing pertussis vaccination during pregnancy and infant vaccinations during COVID-19. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was completed, between 3rd August-11th October 2020, by 1404 women aged 16+ years who were pregnant at some point after the first UK lockdown from March 23rd, 2020. Ten follow-up semi-structured interviews were conducted. RESULTS Most women surveyed were pregnant (65.7%) and a third postnatal (34.3%). Almost all women (95.6%) were aware that pertussis vaccination is recommended in pregnancy. Most pregnant (72.1%) and postnatal women (84.0%) had received pertussis vaccination; however, access issues were reported. Over a third (39.6%) of women had a pregnancy vaccination appointment changed. COVID-19 made it physically difficult to access pregnancy vaccinations for one fifth (21.5%) of women and physically difficult to access infant vaccinations for almost half of women (45.8%). Nearly half of women (45.2%) reported feeling less safe attending pregnancy vaccinations and over three quarters (76.3%) less safe attending infant vaccinations due to COVID-19. The majority (94.2%) felt it was important to get their baby vaccinated during COVID-19. Pregnant women from ethnic-minorities and lower-income households were less likely to have been vaccinated. Minority-ethnicity women were more likely to report access problems and feeling less safe attending vaccinations for both themselves and their babies. Qualitative analysis found women experienced difficulties accessing antenatal care and relied on knowledge from previous pregnancies to access vaccines in pregnancy. CONCLUSION During the ongoing and future pandemics, healthcare services should prioritise equitable access to routine vaccinations, including tailoring services for ethnic-minority families who experience greater barriers to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Skirrow
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Barnett
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Sadie Bell
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Mounier-Jack
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Beate Kampmann
- The Vaccine Centre, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom; Vaccines and Immunity Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM, The Gambia
| | - Beth Holder
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
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De Backer K, Brown JM, Easter A, Khazaezadeh N, Rajasingam D, Sandall J, Magee LA, Silverio SA. Precarity and preparedness during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: A qualitative service evaluation of maternity healthcare professionals. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2022; 101:1227-1237. [PMID: 35950575 PMCID: PMC9538337 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic has devastated populations, posing unprecedented challenges for healthcare services, staff and service‐users. In the UK, rapid reconfiguration of maternity healthcare service provision changed the landscape of antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care. This study aimed to explore the experiences of maternity services staff who provided maternity care during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic to inform future improvements in care. Material and methods A qualitative interview service evaluation was undertaken at a single maternity service in an NHS Trust, South London. Respondents (n = 29) were recruited using a critical case purposeful sample of maternity services staff. Interviews were conducted using video‐conferencing software, and were transcribed and analyzed using Grounded Theory Analysis appropriate for cross‐disciplinary health research. The focus of analysis was on staff experiences of delivering maternity services and care during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic. Results A theory of “Precarity and Preparedness” was developed, comprising three main emergent themes: “Endemic precarity: A health system under pressure”; “A top‐down approach to managing the health system shock”; and “From un(der)‐prepared to future flourishing”. Conclusions Maternity services in the UK were under significant strain and were inherently precarious. This was exacerbated by the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, which saw further disruption to service provision, fragmentation of care and pre‐existing staff shortages. Positive changes are required to improve staff retention and team cohesion, and ensure patient‐centered care remains at the heart of maternity care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat De Backer
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy M Brown
- Medical School, Health Research Institute, Faculty of Health, Social Care & Medicine, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
| | - Abigail Easter
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Daghni Rajasingam
- Maternity Services, St. Thomas' Hospital, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane Sandall
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Laura A Magee
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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Wyatt S, Aldridge P, Ross S, Narayanan S, Zuccolo L. The Frequency of Infant-Feeding Presentations at English Emergency Departments During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Nation-Wide Electronic Health Records Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e27645. [PMID: 36072185 PMCID: PMC9439262 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Mira AR, Pereira JP, Dahlstedt-Ferreira C, Enes M, Coelho HO, Godinho AB. Fetal Deaths in SARS-CoV-2-Infected Pregnant Women: A Portuguese Case Series. Case Rep Obstet Gynecol 2022; 2022:8423733. [PMID: 35966887 PMCID: PMC9365602 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8423733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stillbirth has been documented as an outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy. Placental hypoperfusion and inflammation secondary to maternal immune response seem to play a role in the cascade of events that contribute to fetal death. The aim of our study is to report a perinatal outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy adding information to the pool of data on COVID-19 pregnancy outcomes. Case Presentation. This is the first stillbirth case series occurring in pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 in a Portuguese cohort. Between April 2020 and March 2021, we had 2680 births in our centre, of which 130 (4.95%) involved mothers infected with SARS-CoV-2. Of total births, there were 14 stillbirths (0.52%), accounting for the highest stillbirth rate we have had in the last 5 years. Among these 14 stillbirths, 5 (35.71%) occurred in SARS-CoV-2-infected mothers. We report the clinical features and placental histopathologic findings of 4 stillbirth cases that occurred in our hospital. Discussion. The stillbirth rate among SARS-CoV-2-infected pregnant women (5/130; 3.84%) was significantly increased compared to noninfected patients (9/2550; 0.35%). Most women (3/4) were asymptomatic for COVID-19, a surprising outcome, given the current literature. All cases had histologic exams showing placental signs of vascular malperfusion, although we acknowledge that 3/5 had obstetric conditions related to placental vascular impairment such as preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Conclusion Stillbirth can be a perinatal consequence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy, even in asymptomatic patients. We urge more studies to explore the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk of stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Mira
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | | | | | - Margarida Enes
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
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Radoš SN, Motrico E, Mesquita AM, Ganho-Avila A, Vousoura E, Lalor J. Changes in perinatal mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic: a protocol for a collaborative research study between the COST actions RISEUP-PPD and DEVOTION. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e052411. [PMID: 35882459 PMCID: PMC9329731 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Significant changes in routine maternity care have been introduced globally in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce infection risk, but also due to lack of medical facilities, staff shortages and the unpredictable nature of the disease. However, it is yet to be established if specialised perinatal mental health (PMH) services have been similarly affected. As a Task Force in PMH and COVID-19 pandemic within Riseup-PPD COST Action, this study aims to identify changes in PMH practices, policies and protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe. METHODS AND ANALYSIS An online survey of experts in the PMH who are members of the COST Action 'Riseup-PPD' and the COST Action ''DEVOTION" across 36 European countries will be conducted. A questionnaire on changes in PMH care practices during the COVID-19 Pandemic will be administered. It consists of open-ended questions, checklists and ratings on a 7-point scale addressing seven domains of interest in terms of PMH: (1) policies, guidelines and protocols; (2) PMH care practices at a national level; (3) evidence of best practice; (4) barriers to usual care; (5) resources invested; (6) benefits of investment in the policies and (7) short-term and long-term expectations of the policies. Data will be collected using Qualtrics. Descriptive statistics will be reported and differences between countries will be examined using the χ2 statistic or Student's t-test. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained from The Ethics Committee for Research in Life and Health Sciences of the University of Minho (Portugal) to undertake an anonymous online survey. The findings will be disseminated to professional audience through peer-review publication and presentations and shared widely with stakeholders, policy-makers and service user groups. A position paper will be developed to influence policy-making at a European level to alleviate the adversities caused by COVID-19. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04779775.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Nakić Radoš
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Emma Motrico
- Psychology, Universidad Loyola Andalucia, Dos Hermanas, Spain
| | - Ana M Mesquita
- Universidade do Minho - Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ana Ganho-Avila
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Eleni Vousoura
- Psychology, The American College of Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - Joan Lalor
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Hawco S, Rolnik DL, Woolner A, Cameron NJ, Wyness V, Mol BW, Black M. The impact of mitigation measures on perinatal outcomes during the first nine months of the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 274:117-127. [PMID: 35640440 PMCID: PMC9106593 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide reports have produced conflicting data on perinatal outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review and meta-analysis addressed the effect of mitigation measures against COVID-19 on preterm birth, stillbirth, low birth weight, and NICU admission during the first nine months of the pandemic. A search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase and SCOPUS for manuscripts published up until 24th May 2021. Studies that reported perinatal outcomes (preterm birth, stillbirth, low birth weight, NICU admission) during the COVID-19 pandemic with a pre-pandemic control period were included. Risk of bias assessment was performed using ROBINS-I tool. RevMan5 was used to perform meta-analysis with random-effects models. A score of the stringency of mitigation measures was calculated from the Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker. Thirty-eight studies of moderate to serious risk of bias were included, with varied methodology, analysis and regional mitigation measures, using stringency index scores. There was no overall effect on preterm birth at less than 37 weeks (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–1.00). However, there was a reduction in preterm birth at less than 37 weeks (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81–0.98) and 34 weeks (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.37–0.83) for iatrogenic births and in singleton pregnancies. There was also a significant reduction in preterm births at less than 34 weeks in studies with above median stringency index scores (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.58–0.88). There was no effect on risk of stillbirth (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.90–1.19) or birth weight. NICU admission rates were significantly reduced in studies with above median stringency index scores (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.78–0.97). The reduction in preterm births in regions with high mitigation measures against SARS-CoV-2 infection is likely driven by a reduction in iatrogenic births. Variability in study design and cohort characteristics need to be considered for future studies to allow further investigation of population level health measures of perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hawco
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK.
| | - Daniel L Rolnik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Andrea Woolner
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Natalie J Cameron
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Mairead Black
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Brigante L, Morelli A, Jokinen M, Plachcinski R, Rowe R. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on midwifery-led service provision in the United Kingdom in 2020-21: findings of three national surveys. Midwifery 2022; 112:103390. [PMID: 35709677 PMCID: PMC9155188 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic required all healthcare systems to adapt quickly. There is some evidence about the impact of the pandemic on United Kingdom maternity services overall, but little is known about the impact on midwifery-led services, including midwifery units and home birth services. Objective To describe changes to midwifery-led service provision in the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design Three national surveys were circulated using the United Kingdom Midwifery Study System (UKMidSS) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Heads and Directors of Midwifery Network. The UKMidSS surveys took place in wave 1 (April to June 2020) and in wave 2 (February to March 2021). The RCM survey was conducted in April 2020. Findings The response rate to the UKMidSS surveys was 84% in wave 1 and 70% in wave 2, while 48% of Heads and Directors of Midwifery responded to the RCM survey. Around 60% of midwifery units reported being open as usual in wave 1, with the remainder affected by closures. Fewer unit closures (15%) were reported in the wave 2 survey. Around 40% of services reported some reduction in home birth services in wave 1, compared with 15% in wave 2. The apparent impact of the pandemic varied widely across the four nations of the United Kingdom and within the English regions. Conclusions The pandemic led to increased centralisation of maternity care and the disruption of midwifery-led services, especially in the first wave. Further research should focus on the reasons behind closures, the regional variation and the impact on maternity care experience and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Brigante
- Royal College of Midwives, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandra Morelli
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Rachel Rowe
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
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Silverio SA, De Backer K, Dasgupta T, Torres O, Easter A, Khazaezadeh N, Rajasingam D, Wolfe I, Sandall J, Magee LA. On race and ethnicity during a global pandemic: An 'imperfect mosaic' of maternal and child health services in ethnically-diverse South London, United Kingdom. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 48:101433. [PMID: 35783482 PMCID: PMC9249549 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has brought racial and ethnic inequity into sharp focus, as Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic people were reported to have greater clinical vulnerability. During the pandemic, priority was given to ongoing, reconfigured maternity and children's healthcare. This study aimed to understand the intersection between race and ethnicity, and healthcare provision amongst maternity and children's healthcare professionals, during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods A qualitative study consisting of semi-structured interviews (N = 53) was undertaken with maternity (n = 29; August-November 2020) and children's (n = 24; June-July 2021) healthcare professionals from an NHS Trust in ethnically-diverse South London, UK. Data pertinent to ethnicity and race were subject to Grounded Theory Analysis, whereby data was subjected to iterative coding and interpretive analysis. Using this methodology, data are compared between transcripts to generate lower and higher order codes, before super-categories are formed, which are finally worked into themes. The inter-relationship between these themes is interpreted as a final theory. Findings Grounded Theory Analysis led to the theory: An 'Imperfect Mosaic', comprising four themes: (1) 'A System Set in Plaster'; (2) 'The Marginalised Majority'; (3) 'Self-Discharging Responsibility for Change-Making'; and (4) 'Slow Progress, Not No Progress'. The NHS was observed to be brittle, lacking plasticity to deliver change at pace. Overt racism based on skin colour has been replaced by micro-aggressions between in-groups and out-groups, defined not just by ethnicity, but by other social determinants. Contemporaneously, responsibility for health, wellbeing, and psychological safety in the workplace is discharged to, and accepted by, the individual. Interpretation Our findings suggest three practicable solutions: (1) Representation of marginalised groups at all NHS levels; (2) Engagement in cultural humility which extends to other social factors; and (3) Collective action at system and individual levels, including prioritising equity over simplistic notions of equality. Funding This service evaluation was supported by the King's College London King's Together Rapid COVID-19 Call, successfully awarded to Laura A. Magee, Sergio A. Silverio, Abigail Easter, & colleagues (reference:- 204823/Z/16/Z), as part of a rapid response call for research proposals. The King's Together Fund is a Wellcome Trust funded initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A. Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Kaat De Backer
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Tisha Dasgupta
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Ofelia Torres
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Abigail Easter
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Khazaezadeh
- Chief Midwifery Office, NHS England and Improvement, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, Southwark, London SE1 8UG, United Kingdom
| | - Daghni Rajasingam
- Maternity Services, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Guy's and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Ingrid Wolfe
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Sandall
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Laura A. Magee
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, St. Thomas’ Hospital, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas’ Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
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Aye YM, Kim SJ, Suriyawongpaisal W, Hong SA, Chang YS. Utilization of Postnatal Care Services among Thai Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of a Web-Based Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6536. [PMID: 35682122 PMCID: PMC9179996 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The postnatal period is an underserved aspect of maternity care, potentially worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify postnatal care (PNC) use by health personnel within the 42 days of childbirth among postpartum mothers in Thailand. This web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2021 (n = 840). Multiple binary and ordinal logistic regressions were conducted to predict three outcome variables (≥2 times, ≥3 times, or level of PNC use). Women who received PNC were in low numbers (≥2: 30.7% and (≥3: 12.9%), while 54.4% of women reported no barriers to access PNC, and 31.9% reported barriers, including worries over COVID-19 infection, followed by movement restrictions imposed by the government (11.7%) and the closure of healthcare centers (10%). Women working in a self-employed capacity, living in urban areas, and undergoing a Caesarean section with no/less worry about COVID-19 infection were more likely to utilize postnatal care (≥2 or number of PNC). This study provides timely information, revealing that a relatively low percentage of postpartum women received PNC, particularly among the socially deprived group. Since the fear of COVID infection is listed as a major barrier, the provision of PNC services, including a telehealth program should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Min Aye
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (Y.M.A.); (W.S.)
| | - Soo Jung Kim
- Department of Health Sciences, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, 20099 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Wichukorn Suriyawongpaisal
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (Y.M.A.); (W.S.)
| | - Seo Ah Hong
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand; (Y.M.A.); (W.S.)
| | - Yan-Shing Chang
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, London SE1 8WA, UK;
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Flaherty SJ, Delaney H, Matvienko-Sikar K, Smith V. Maternity care during COVID-19: a qualitative evidence synthesis of women's and maternity care providers' views and experiences. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:438. [PMID: 35619069 PMCID: PMC9132752 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04724-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As COVID-19 continued to impact society and health, maternity care, as with many other healthcare sectors across the globe, experienced tumultuous changes. These changes have the potential to considerably impact on the experience of maternity care. To gain insight and understanding of the experience of maternity care during COVID-19, from the perspectives of women and maternity care providers, we undertook a qualitative evidence synthesis (QES). Methods The population of interest for the QES were pregnant and postpartum women, and maternity care providers, who provided qualitative data on their experiences of maternity care during COVID-19. The electronic databases of MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO and the Cochrane COVID study register were systematically searched from 01 Jan 2020 to 13 June 2021. The methodological quality of the included studies was appraised using a modified version of the quality assessment tool, based on 12-criteria, designed by the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information coordinating Centre (EPPI-Centre). Data were extracted by two reviewers independently and synthesised using the Thomas and Harden framework. Confidence in the findings was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation-Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (GRADE-CERQual). Results Fifty records relating to 48 studies, involving 9,348 women and 2,538 maternity care providers, were included in the QES. The methodological quality of the studies varied from four studies meeting all 12 quality criteria to two studies meeting one quality criterion only. The synthesis revealed eight prominent themes. Five of these reflected women’s experiences: 1) Altered maternity care (women), 2) COVID-related restrictions, 3) Infection prevention and risk, 4) ‘the lived reality’ – navigating support systems, and 5) Interactions with maternity services. Three themes reflected maternity care providers’ experiences: 6) Altered maternity care (providers), 7) Professional and personal impact, and 8) Broader structural impact. Confidence in the findings was high or moderate. Conclusion Although some positive experiences were identified, overall, this QES reveals that maternity care during COVID-19 was negatively experienced by both women and maternity care providers. The pandemic and associated changes evoked an array of emotive states for both populations, many of which have the potential to impact on future health and wellbeing. Resource and care planning to mitigate medium- and longer-term adverse sequelae are required. PROSPERO registration CRD42021232684. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04724-w.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah Delaney
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Health Research Board-Trials Methodology Research Network (HRB-TMRN), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Valerie Smith
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Palo SK, Dubey S, Negi S, Sahay MR, Patel K, Swain S, Mishra BK, Bhuyan D, Kanungo S, Som M, Merta BR, Bhattacharya D, Kshatri JS, Pati S. Effective interventions to ensure MCH (Maternal and Child Health) services during pandemic related health emergencies (Zika, Ebola, and COVID-19): A systematic review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268106. [PMID: 35536838 PMCID: PMC9089853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ensuring accessible and quality health care for women and children is an existing challenge, which is further exacerbated during pandemics. There is a knowledge gap about the effect of pandemics on maternal, newborn, and child well-being. This systematic review was conducted to study maternal and child health (MCH) services utilization during pandemics (Zika, Ebola, and COVID-19) and the effectiveness of various interventions undertaken for ensuring utilization of MCH services. METHODOLOGY A systematic and comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Epistemonikos, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Of 5643 citations, 60 potential studies were finally included for analysis. The included studies were appraised using JBI Critical appraisal tools. Study selection and data extraction were done independently and in duplicate. Findings are presented narratively based on the RMNCHA framework by World Health Organization (WHO). RESULTS Maternal and child health services such as antenatal care (ANC) visits, institutional deliveries, immunization uptake, were greatly affected during a pandemic situation. Innovative approaches in form of health care services through virtual consultation, patient triaging, developing dedicated COVID maternity centers and maternity schools were implemented in different places for ensuring continuity of MCH care during pandemics. None of the studies reported the effectiveness of these interventions during pandemic-related health emergencies. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that during pandemics, MCH care utilization often gets affected. Many innovative interventions were adopted to ensure MCH services. However, they lack evidence about their effectiveness. It is critically important to implement evidence-based appropriate interventions for better MCH care utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shubhankar Dubey
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Sapna Negi
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Kripalini Patel
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Swagatika Swain
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Dinesh Bhuyan
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Srikanta Kanungo
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Meena Som
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Odisha, India
| | | | | | | | - Sanghamitra Pati
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Gray A, Barnett J. Welcoming new life under lockdown: Exploring the experiences of first-time mothers who gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Br J Health Psychol 2022; 27:534-552. [PMID: 34633132 PMCID: PMC8646741 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore how first-time mothers in the UK experienced new parenthood during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. DESIGN This study used a cross-sectional exploratory, qualitative interview design. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten first-time mothers who had given birth since COVID-19 was declared as a pandemic. Verbatim transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULT Experiences of new, first-time mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic were organized around two themes. First, new mothers felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility for their baby which was heightened by the pandemic. The challenge of meeting this responsibility was heightened in the context of societal expectations to do the 'right' thing and uncertainty and distrust around official guidance about COVID-19. Secondly, the expected transition into motherhood was altered by the pandemic. Disruption to the birthing experience, an inability to connect with close friends and family, and limited healthcare support was perceived to be detrimental. However, altered social expectations and the increased presence of the partner were perceived as positives. CONCLUSION Many of the common challenges experienced by new, first-time mothers have been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Public policy and scientific research must target this group in order to protect this population from the negative impact of the remaining COVID-19 pandemic and any future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gray
- Department of PsychologyFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesUniversity of BathUK
| | - Julie Barnett
- Department of PsychologyFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesUniversity of BathUK
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71
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Reproductive Health and Coronavirus Disease 2019–Induced Economic Contracture: Lessons From the Great Recession. Clin Ther 2022; 44:914-921. [PMID: 35570055 PMCID: PMC9130021 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Kluwgant D, Homer C, Dahlen H. “Never let a good crisis go to waste”: Positives from disrupted maternity care in Australia during COVID-19. Midwifery 2022; 110:103340. [PMID: 35504154 PMCID: PMC9013427 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of changes to maternity care were rapidly introduced in all countries, including Australia, to reduce the risk of infection for pregnant women and their care providers. While many studies have reported on the negative effects of these changes, there is a paucity of evidence on factors which women and their providers perceived as positive and useful for future maternity care. Design Data was analysed from the Birth in the time of COVID-19 (BITTOC 2020) study survey. Conventional content analysis and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data and examine which aspects of COVID-amended care women experienced as positive. Data from women were compared to data from midwives. Setting This project took place in Australia in 2020-2021. Participants The survey was distributed to women who gave birth and midwives who worked in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020 onwards). Measurements and findings Women reported a variety of positives from their maternity care during COVID-19. These included both care-related factors as well as contextual factors. The most commonly mentioned positives for pregnant and postnatal women were care-related, namely fewer visitors in hospital, having increased access to telehealth services. These were also the most commonly reported positives by midwives. Having midwifery continuity of care models, giving birth at home and having their partner work from home were also highlighted by women as positives. Key conclusions Despite the negative effect of COVID-19-related restrictions on maternity care, a variety of changes were viewed as positive by both women and midwives, with strong agreement between the two groups. Implications for practice These findings provide evidence to support the inclusion of these positive elements of care and ensure that the lessons learned from the pandemic are utilised to improve maternity care in Australia going forward.
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Ayala-Ramírez P, González M, Escudero C, Quintero-Arciniegas L, Giachini FR, Alves de Freitas R, Damiano AE, García-Robles R. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection in Pregnancy. A Non-systematic Review of Clinical Presentation, Potential Effects of Physiological Adaptations in Pregnancy, and Placental Vascular Alterations. Front Physiol 2022; 13:785274. [PMID: 35431989 PMCID: PMC9005899 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.785274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) rapidly spread to become a pandemic. To date, increasing evidence has described the potential negative impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on pregnant women. Although the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not entirely understood, there is emerging evidence that it causes a severe systemic inflammatory response associated with vascular alterations that could be of special interest considering some physiological changes in pregnancy. Additionally, these alterations may affect the physiology of the placenta and are associated with pregnancy complications and abnormal histologic findings. On the other hand, data about the vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 are limited, but the risks of administering COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy appear to be minimal. This review summarizes the current literature on SARSCoV2 virus infection, the development of COVID-19 and its relationship with physiological changes, and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) function during pregnancy. We have particularly emphasized evidence coming from Latin American countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Ayala-Ramírez
- School of Medicine, Human Genetics Institute, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Paola Ayala-Ramírez,
| | - Marcelo González
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF), Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
- Marcelo González,
| | - Carlos Escudero
- Group of Research and Innovation in Vascular Health (GRIVAS Health), Chillan, Chile
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad del Bio-Bio, Chillan, Chile
| | - Laura Quintero-Arciniegas
- Perinatal Medicine Seedbed, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Fernanda R. Giachini
- Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Barra do Garças, Brazil
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goias, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Alicia E. Damiano
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto de Fisiología y Biofísica Bernardo Houssay (IFIBIO)- CONICET- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Cátedra de Biología Celular y Molecular, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Reggie García-Robles
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
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Transdisciplinary Imagination: Addressing Equity and Mistreatment in Perinatal Care. Matern Child Health J 2022; 26:674-681. [PMID: 35320452 PMCID: PMC8940589 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-022-03419-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Inequities in birth outcomes are linked to experiential and environmental exposures. There have been expanding and intersecting wicked problems of inequity, racism, and quality gaps in childbearing care during the pandemic. We describe how an intentional transdisciplinary process led to development of a novel knowledge exchange vehicle that can improve health equity in perinatal services. We introduce the Quality Perinatal Services Hub, an open access digital platform to disseminate evidence based guidance, enhance health systems accountability, and provide a two-way flow of information between communities and health systems on rights-based perinatal services. The QPS-Hub responds to both community and decision-makers’ needs for information on respectful maternity care. The QPS-Hub is well poised to facilitate collaboration between policy makers, healthcare providers and patients, with particular focus on the needs of childbearing families in underserved and historically excluded communities.
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75
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Cauldwell M, Chmielewska B, Kaur K, van-de-l'Isle Y, Sherry A, Watt Coote I, Steer PJ. Screening for late-onset gestational diabetes: Are there any clinical benefits? BJOG 2022; 129:2176-2183. [PMID: 35304972 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the third trimester and managing those who are screen positive on a diabetes pathway affects obstetric and neonatal outcomes. DESIGN Retrospective study of prospectively collected data. SETTING London Teaching Hospital. POPULATION OR SAMPLE A total of 14 366 women delivering between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2020. METHODS Retrospective chart analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Diagnosis of late-onset GDM, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS Five hundred and thirty-one women were tested by home glucose monitoring for late-onset GDM from 33 weeks of gestation. In all, 244 were diagnosed as having GDM (group 1) and managed accordingly, and 287 (group 2) were returned to normal care. A total of 1415 women had GDM diagnosed by oral glucose tolerance test before 33 weeks of gestation (group 3). Of the women in group 2, 49.5% had a spontaneous onset of labour compared with only 25.8% and 27% in groups 1 and 3. However, women in group 2 were significantly more likely to have a macrosomic baby (≥4000 g, 25.4%) than groups 1 (16.0%) or 3 (7.2%), and their babies were more likely to be admitted to special care (5.2% versus 2% in group 1). Macrosomic babies were associated with significantly higher rates of shoulder dystocia, third- and fourth-degree tears and postpartum haemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS Apparent late-onset GDM affects a significant proportion of women, and targeted intervention was associated with better obstetric and neonatal outcomes. These results suggest that all pregnancies with risk factors for late-onset GDM might benefit from active GDM management irrespective of specific glucose thresholds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Cauldwell
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Basia Chmielewska
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kiran Kaur
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Yolande van-de-l'Isle
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anneka Sherry
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ingrid Watt Coote
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal Medicine Service, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Philip J Steer
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
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76
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Khalil A, Blakeway H, Samara A, O'Brien P. COVID-19 and stillbirth: direct vs indirect effect of the pandemic. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2022; 59:288-295. [PMID: 34951732 DOI: 10.1002/uog.24846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of London, London, UK
- Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - H Blakeway
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of London, London, UK
| | - A Samara
- Division of Clinical Paediatrics, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Astrid Lindgren, Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - P O'Brien
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, UK
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77
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Evans K, Rennick-Egglestone S, Cox S, Kuipers Y, Spiby H. Remotely Delivered Interventions to Support Women With Symptoms of Anxiety in Pregnancy: Mixed Methods Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e28093. [PMID: 35166688 PMCID: PMC8889484 DOI: 10.2196/28093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Symptoms of anxiety are common in pregnancy, with severe symptoms associated with negative outcomes for women and babies. Low-level psychological therapy is recommended for women with mild to moderate anxiety, with the aim of preventing an escalation of symptoms and providing coping strategies. Remotely delivered interventions have been suggested to improve access to treatment and support and provide a cost-effective, flexible, and timely solution. OBJECTIVE This study identifies and evaluates remotely delivered, digital, or web-based interventions to support women with symptoms of anxiety during pregnancy. METHODS This mixed methods systematic review followed a convergent segregated approach to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data. The ACM Digital Library, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination database, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Embase, Health Technology Assessment Library, IEEE Xplore, Joanna Briggs Institute, Maternity and Infant Care, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and the Social Science Citation Index were searched in October 2020. Quantitative or qualitative primary research that included pregnant women and evaluated remotely delivered interventions reporting measures of anxiety, fear, stress, distress, women's views, and opinions were included. RESULTS Overall, 3 qualitative studies and 14 quantitative studies were included. Populations included a general antenatal population and pregnant women having anxiety and depression, fear of childbirth, insomnia, and preterm labor. Interventions included cognitive behavioral therapy, problem solving, mindfulness, and educational designs. Most interventions were delivered via web-based platforms, and 62% (8/13) included direct contact from trained therapists or coaches. A meta-analysis of the quantitative data found internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy and facilitated interventions showed a beneficial effect in relation to the reduction of anxiety scores (standardized mean difference -0.49, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.22; standardized mean difference -0.48, 95% CI -0.75 to -0.22). Due to limitations in the amount of available data and study quality, the findings should be interpreted with caution. Synthesized findings found some evidence to suggest that interventions are more effective when women maintain regular participation which may be enhanced by providing regular contact with therapists or peer support, appropriate targeting of interventions involving components of relaxation and cognitive-based skills, and providing sufficient sessions to develop new skills without being too time consuming. CONCLUSIONS There is limited evidence to suggest that women who are pregnant may benefit from remotely delivered interventions. Components of interventions that may improve the effectiveness and acceptability of remotely delivered interventions included providing web-based contact with a therapist, health care professional, or peer community. Women may be more motivated to complete interventions that are perceived as relevant or tailored to their needs. Remote interventions may also provide women with greater anonymity to help them feel more confident in disclosing their symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Evans
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Rennick-Egglestone
- Institute of Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Serena Cox
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne Kuipers
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Spiby
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Experiences of Perinatal Mental Health Care among Minority Ethnic Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic in London: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19041975. [PMID: 35206163 PMCID: PMC8872278 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19041975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Approximately one in five women will experience mental health difficulties in the perinatal period. Women from ethnic minority backgrounds face a variety of barriers that can prevent or delay access to appropriate perinatal mental health care. COVID-19 pandemic restrictions created additional obstacles for this group of women. This study aims to explore minority ethnic women's experiences of perinatal mental health services during COVID-19 in London. (2) Methods: Eighteen women from ethnic minority backgrounds were interviewed, and data were subject to a thematic analysis. (3) Results: Three main themes were identified, each with two subthemes: 'Difficulties and Disruptions to Access' (Access to Appointments; Pandemic Restrictions and Disruption), 'Experiences of Remote Delivery' (Preference for Face-to-Face Contact; Advantages of Remote Support); and 'Psychosocial Experiences' linked to COVID-19 (Heightened Anxiety; Social Isolation). (4) Conclusions: Women from ethnic minority backgrounds experienced disrupted perinatal mental health care and COVID-19 restrictions compounding their mental health difficulties. Services should take women's circumstances into account and provide flexibility regarding remote delivery of care.
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Supporting Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing during COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031777. [PMID: 35162798 PMCID: PMC8835495 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mental health is especially important as women transition into parenthood. The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the rapid reconfiguration of maternity services, including perinatal mental healthcare, as offered by Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Midwives, in NHS Trusts in the United Kingdom. This article represents work undertaken in rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to document the findings from March 2020 up until May 2021 in literature published on perinatal mental health through the pandemic, as well as to engage in a knowledge mapping exercise across five NHS Trusts in London. In this research, we utilised a critical review methodology which purposefully selects and synthesises materials after extensive literature searching to provide a broad and informed narrative around an issue. For our knowledge mapping exercise, we utilised an inclusive stance to gather, pool, and synthesise data from five NHS Trusts regarding the provisions and reconfigurations of their perinatal mental health services, creating a comparable and translatable snapshot in time. Our rapid, critical review highlighted two themes: ‘Increased Perinatal Distress’ and ‘Inaccessible Services and Support’. Our knowledge mapping exercise produced four themes: ‘Retention of Existing Service Provision’; ‘Additional Services Provided’; ‘Reconfiguration of Service Provision’; ‘Additional Provision to Support Staff Wellbeing’. We conclude by offering best practice guidance in order to provide shared learning to aid the transition through para-pandemic circumstances to service delivery in a post-pandemic ‘new normal’.
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80
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Thomson G, Balaam MC, Nowland Harris R, Crossland N, Moncrieff G, Heys S, Sarian A, Cull J, Topalidou A, Downe S. Companionship for women/birthing people using antenatal and intrapartum care in England during COVID-19: a mixed-methods analysis of national and organisational responses and perspectives. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e051965. [PMID: 35017241 PMCID: PMC8753093 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore stakeholders' and national organisational perspectives on companionship for women/birthing people using antenatal and intrapartum care in England during COVID-19, as part of the Achieving Safe and Personalised maternity care In Response to Epidemics (ASPIRE) COVID-19 UK study. SETTING Maternity care provision in England. PARTICIPANTS Interviews were held with 26 national governmental, professional and service-user organisation leads (July-December 2020). Other data included public-facing outputs logged from 25 maternity Trusts (September/October 2020) and data extracted from 78 documents from eight key governmental, professional and service-user organisations that informed national maternity care guidance and policy (February-December 2020). RESULTS Six themes emerged: 'Postcode lottery of care' highlights variations in companionship and visiting practices between trusts/locations, 'Confusion and stress around 'rules'' relates to a lack of and variable information concerning companionship/visiting, 'Unintended consequences' concerns the negative impacts of restricted companionship or visiting on women/birthing people and staff, 'Need for flexibility' highlights concerns about applying companionship and visiting policies irrespective of need, ''Acceptable' time for support' highlights variations in when and if companionship was 'allowed' antenatally and intrapartum and 'Loss of human rights for gain in infection control' emphasises how a predominant focus on infection control was at a cost to psychological safety and human rights. CONCLUSIONS Policies concerning companionship and visiting have been inconsistently applied within English maternity services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In some cases, policies were not justified by the level of risk, and were applied indiscriminately regardless of need. There is an urgent need to determine how to sensitively and flexibly balance risks and benefits and optimise outcomes during the current and future crisis situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gill Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition & Nurture group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Marie-Claire Balaam
- Research in Childbirth and Health group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Rebecca Nowland Harris
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition & Nurture group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Nicola Crossland
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition & Nurture group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Gill Moncrieff
- Research in Childbirth and Health group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | | | - Arni Sarian
- School of Medicine, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Joanne Cull
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition & Nurture group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Anastasia Topalidou
- Research in Childbirth and Health group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Soo Downe
- Research in Childbirth and Health group, School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Yu W, Hu X, Cao B. Viral Infections During Pregnancy: The Big Challenge Threatening Maternal and Fetal Health. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022; 4:72-86. [PMID: 35187500 PMCID: PMC8843053 DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections during pregnancy are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal and fetal mortality, pregnancy loss, premature labor, and congenital anomalies. Mammalian gestation encounters an immunological paradox wherein the placenta balances the tolerance of an allogeneic fetus with protection against pathogens. Viruses cannot easily transmit from mother to fetus due to physical and immunological barriers at the maternal-fetal interface posing a restricted threat to the fetus and newborns. Despite this, the unknown strategies utilized by certain viruses could weaken the placental barrier to trigger severe maternal and fetal health issues especially through vertical transmission, which was not fully understood until now. In this review, we summarize diverse aspects of the major viral infections relevant to pregnancy, including the characteristics of pathogenesis, related maternal-fetal complications, and the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of vertical transmission. We highlight the fundamental signatures of complex placental defense mechanisms, which will prepare us to fight the next emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in the pregnancy population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhe Yu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Xiaoqian Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Bin Cao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
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Abdus-Salam RA, Idowu OC, Sanusi AT. Utilization of Postnatal Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perception and Intents of Postpartum Women at Tertiary Health Facility in Southwest, Nigeria. J Patient Exp 2022; 9:23743735221106595. [PMID: 35707768 PMCID: PMC9189511 DOI: 10.1177/23743735221106595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic took the world unawares and disrupted maternal health care services. This study assessed postnatal care (PNC) utilization, perception, and intent of postpartum women to use PNC. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic over a 2-months period. Inclusion criteria—consenting women, aged ≥18years, and delivery at the study site; 115 women were selected by simple random sampling technique. The information included sociodemographic, obstetric characteristics, perceived effects of COVID-19 on maternal healthcare, and willingness to return for PNC using pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaires. The maternal healthcare register was also reviewed for the proportion of women accessing services before and during the pandemic. Data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package and Service Solutions (SPSS) Version 23. The total No. of deliveries and PNC attendance/month was reduced. Respondents were multiparous women (61.7%), with no pregnancy complication (73.9%). About 93% were counseled on PNC; while only 47.8% of the respondents had good knowledge of PNC. The pandemic affected antenatal care in 25.2%, 7.8% perceived it would affect PNC, 62.6% perceived themselves at risk of COVID-19; 13.9% had fears of coming for PNC. Despite this, more than 75% were willing to come for PNC. COVID-19 affected the use of maternal healthcare. Counseling on the role and benefits of PNC can improve its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukiyat A Abdus-Salam
- University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
- University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Basnet B, Chapagain P, Subedi S, Dahal T, Neupane S, Khanal R, Pinder RJ, Lucero-Prisno DE, Sundar Budhathoki S. Experiences of nurses providing maternity care in a public hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nepal: A qualitative study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000322. [PMID: 36962196 PMCID: PMC10021459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Maternity service providers have struggled to provide high-quality services to women and newborns during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic which has substantially impacted health systems and disrupted maternity services globally. Nepal is a resources-limited country that reported a significant impact of the pandemic on maternal health services. It is therefore important to understand better the perspective of health care professionals in this context. This study intends to explore the experiences of nurses providing maternity care in the public sector during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nepal. A qualitative study using a phenomenological design was conducted. Altogether ten nurses working in maternity services were selected using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected by face-to-face in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was conducted using Clarke and Braun 2006 technique. The findings of the study were organized into codes, sub-themes and themes. The six themes identified were fear of COVID-19 at work, challenges at work, changes at work and services, motivations to work, stigma due to COVID-19, and impact on services. Participants described how maternity services could not be stopped during the pandemic. They had experienced decreased utilization of antenatal services as a consequence of 'lockdown' thereby leading to an increase in maternal and neonatal mortality. Respondents reported ineffective human resource management compromising the quality of care. The professional responsibility to cope with adverse circumstances and serve society is a major source of motivation that health workers relied upon to get them through the pandemic period. A wide range of challenges were faced by service providers during the pandemic which requires action and support of all levels of government, institutions and society-at-large to assure the continued provision of safe maternity care during such a protracted period of challenging work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bidhya Basnet
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Pratiksha Chapagain
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Sabitra Subedi
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Tulasha Dahal
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Saraswati Neupane
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Ranjita Khanal
- Maternal Health Nursing Department, Biratnagar Nursing Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Biratnagar, Nepal
| | - Richard J Pinder
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shyam Sundar Budhathoki
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Gurol-Urganci I, Waite L, Webster K, Jardine J, Carroll F, Dunn G, Frémeaux A, Harris T, Hawdon J, Muller P, van der Meulen J, Khalil A. Obstetric interventions and pregnancy outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic in England: A nationwide cohort study. PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1003884. [PMID: 35007282 PMCID: PMC8803187 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted maternity services worldwide and imposed restrictions on societal behaviours. This national study aimed to compare obstetric intervention and pregnancy outcome rates in England during the pandemic and corresponding pre-pandemic calendar periods, and to assess whether differences in these rates varied according to ethnic and socioeconomic background. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted a national study of singleton births in English National Health Service hospitals. We compared births during the COVID-19 pandemic period (23 March 2020 to 22 February 2021) with births during the corresponding calendar period 1 year earlier. The Hospital Episode Statistics database provided administrative hospital data about maternal characteristics, obstetric inventions (induction of labour, elective or emergency cesarean section, and instrumental birth), and outcomes (stillbirth, preterm birth, small for gestational age [SGA; birthweight < 10th centile], prolonged maternal length of stay (≥3 days), and maternal 42-day readmission). Multi-level logistic regression models were used to compare intervention and outcome rates between the corresponding pre-pandemic and pandemic calendar periods and to test for interactions between pandemic period and ethnic and socioeconomic background. All models were adjusted for maternal characteristics including age, obstetric history, comorbidities, and COVID-19 status at birth. The study included 948,020 singleton births (maternal characteristics: median age 30 years, 41.6% primiparous, 8.3% with gestational diabetes, 2.4% with preeclampsia, and 1.6% with pre-existing diabetes or hypertension); 451,727 births occurred during the defined pandemic period. Maternal characteristics were similar in the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, stillbirth rates remained similar (0.36% pandemic versus 0.37% pre-pandemic, p = 0.16). Preterm birth and SGA birth rates were slightly lower during the pandemic (6.0% versus 6.1% for preterm births, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.97; 5.6% versus 5.8% for SGA births, aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.93-0.96; both p < 0.001). Slightly higher rates of obstetric intervention were observed during the pandemic (40.4% versus 39.1% for induction of labour, aOR 1.04, 95% CI 1.03-1.05; 13.9% versus 12.9% for elective cesarean section, aOR 1.13, 95% CI 1.11-1.14; 18.4% versus 17.0% for emergency cesarean section, aOR 1.07, 95% CI 1.06-1.08; all p < 0.001). Lower rates of prolonged maternal length of stay (16.7% versus 20.2%, aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.76-0.78, p < 0.001) and maternal readmission (3.0% versus 3.3%, aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.86-0.90, p < 0.001) were observed during the pandemic period. There was some evidence that differences in the rates of preterm birth, emergency cesarean section, and unassisted vaginal birth varied according to the mother's ethnic background but not according to her socioeconomic background. A key limitation is that multiple comparisons were made, increasing the chance of false-positive results. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we found very small decreases in preterm birth and SGA birth rates and very small increases in induction of labour and elective and emergency cesarean section during the COVID-19 pandemic, with some evidence of a slightly different pattern of results in women from ethnic minority backgrounds. These changes in obstetric intervention rates and pregnancy outcomes may be linked to women's behaviour, environmental exposure, changes in maternity practice, or reduced staffing levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ipek Gurol-Urganci
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Health Services Research, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lara Waite
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kirstin Webster
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Jardine
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Health Services Research, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fran Carroll
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Dunn
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alissa Frémeaux
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tina Harris
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Hawdon
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Muller
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Health Services Research, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan van der Meulen
- Department of Health Services Research, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene &Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Fetal Medicine Unit, Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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85
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Abdalla S, Joho AA. Midwives' Knowledge and Preparedness in Providing Maternity Care During COVID-19 Pandemic in Dodoma Region, Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study. SAGE Open Nurs 2022; 8:23779608221116695. [PMID: 35923913 PMCID: PMC9340316 DOI: 10.1177/23779608221116695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 pandemic has a high impact on the health of pregnant women and healthcare providers worldwide. Objective This study aims to assess midwives' knowledge and preparedness in providing maternity care during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional analytical hospital-based study that included 116 midwives, who were working in labor ward, was conducted in the Dodoma region of Tanzania from March to June 2021. The Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to assess the association between the categorical variables. The predictors of midwives' knowledge and preparedness were determined using binary logistic regression analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0; p < .05 was considered to be significant. Results Of the midwives studied, 63 (54.3%) had adequate knowledge about COVID-19 and only 30 (25.9%) were adequately prepared on provision of maternal care. Having diploma/bachelor level of education (AOR = 2.62, 95%CI = 1.08-6.36, p = .033), being trained on COVID-19 (AOR = 3.65, 95%CI = 1.11-12.00, p = .033) and working in urban health facilities (AOR = 3.65, 95%CI = 1.17-13.98, p = .002) were the significant determinants of midwives' knowledge on COVID-19. Working at a health center (AOR = 0.19, 95%CI = 0.03-1.32. p = .033), being trained on COVID-19 (AOR = 0.04, 95%CI = 0.01-0.14, p = .000 and having adequate knowledge on COVID-19 (AOR = 0.20, 95%CI = 0.03-1.32, p = .032) were determinants of midwives' preparedness on provision of maternal care. Conclusion Knowledge and preparedness in the provision of maternity care during the COVID-19 pandemic were low. Emphasis should be put on training midwives on IPC when providing maternity care. This may help in preventing the spread of infectious diseases including COVID-19 as we observed in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subira Abdalla
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing and Public Health,
The University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Angelina A. Joho
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing and Public Health,
The University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
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86
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Semaan A, Dey T, Kikula A, Asefa A, Delvaux T, Langlois EV, van den Akker T, Benova L. "Separated during the first hours"-Postnatal care for women and newborns during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study from a global online survey of maternal and newborn healthcare providers. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000214. [PMID: 36962168 PMCID: PMC10022345 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Routine postnatal care (PNC) allows monitoring, early detection and management of complications, and counselling to ensure immediate and long-term wellbeing of mothers and newborns; yet effective coverage is sub-optimal globally. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted availability and quality of maternal and newborn care despite established guidelines promoting continuity of essential services. We conducted a cross-sectional global online survey of 424 maternal and newborn healthcare providers from 61 countries, to explore PNC provision, availability, content and quality following the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The questionnaire (11 languages), included four multiple-choice and four open-text questions on changes to PNC during the pandemic. Quantitative and qualitative responses received between July and December 2020 were analysed separately and integrated during reporting. Tightened rules for visiting postpartum women were reported in health facilities, ranging from shorter visiting hours to banning supportive companions and visitors. A quarter (26%) of respondents reported that mothers suspected/confirmed with COVID-19 were routinely separated from their newborns. Early initiation of breastfeeding was delayed due to waiting for maternal SARS-CoV-2 test results. Reduced provision of breastfeeding support was reported by 40% of respondents in high-income countries and 7% in low-income countries. Almost 60% reported that women were discharged earlier than usual and 27% perceived a reduction in attendance to outpatient PNC. Telemedicine and home visits were mostly reported in high-income countries to ensure safe care provision. Beyond the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, severe disruptions to content and quality of PNC continued to exist, whereas disruptions in availability and use were less commonly reported. Depriving women of support, reducing availability of PNC services, and mother-newborn separation could lead to negative long-term outcomes for women, newborns and families, and deny their rights to respectful care. Protecting these essential services is imperative to promoting quality woman-centred PNC during and beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Semaan
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Teesta Dey
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amani Kikula
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Upanga-West, Dar es salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anteneh Asefa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thérèse Delvaux
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Etienne V Langlois
- Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Faculty of Science, Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Lenka Benova
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Silverio SA, Easter A, Storey C, Jurković D, Sandall J. Preliminary findings on the experiences of care for parents who suffered perinatal bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:840. [PMID: 34937548 PMCID: PMC8693591 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04292-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic poses an unprecedented risk to the global population. Maternity care in the UK was subject to many iterations of guidance on how best to reconfigure services to keep women, their families and babies, and healthcare professionals safe. Parents who experience a pregnancy loss or perinatal death require particular care and support. PUDDLES is an international collaboration investigating the experiences of recently bereaved parents who suffered a late miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death during the global COVID-19 pandemic, in seven countries. In this study, we aim to present early findings from qualitative work undertaken with recently bereaved parents in the United Kingdom about how access to healthcare and support services was negotiated during the pandemic. METHODS In-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken with parents (N = 24) who had suffered a late miscarriage (n = 5; all mothers), stillbirth (n = 16; 13 mothers, 1 father, 1 joint interview involving both parents), or neonatal death (n = 3; all mothers). Data were analysed using a template analysis with the aim of investigating bereaved parents' access to services, care, and networks of support, during the pandemic after their bereavement. RESULTS All parents had experience of utilising reconfigured maternity and/or neonatal, and bereavement care services during the pandemic. The themes utilised in the template analysis were: 1) The Shock & Confusion Associated with Necessary Restrictions to Daily Life; 2) Fragmented Care and Far Away Families; 3) Keeping Safe by Staying Away; and 4) Impersonal Care and Support Through a Screen. Results suggest access to maternity, neonatal, and bereavement care services were all significantly reduced, and parents' experiences were notably affected by service reconfigurations. CONCLUSIONS Our findings, whilst preliminary, are important to document now, to help inform care and service provision as the pandemic continues and to provide learning for ongoing and future health system shocks. We draw conclusions on how to enable development of safe and appropriate services during this pandemic and any future health crises, to best support parents who experience a pregnancy loss or whose babies die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Abigail Easter
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Davor Jurković
- Gynaecology Diagnostic Outpatient Treatment Unit, University College Hospital, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane Sandall
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course & Population Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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Panda S, O'Malley D, Barry P, Vallejo N, Smith V. Women's views and experiences of maternity care during COVID-19 in Ireland: A qualitative descriptive study. Midwifery 2021; 103:103092. [PMID: 34325384 PMCID: PMC8582075 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To gain insight and understanding of women's views and experiences of maternity care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews. Due to social distancing and associated COVID-19 restrictions at the time of the study, the interviews were held remotely via telephone. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview data. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS A large urban tertiary referral maternity unit (greater than 8000 births per year) in the Republic of Ireland. Women of low and high obstetric risk, primiparous and multiparous, who gave birth in April or May of 2020 were eligible for inclusion. Women were invited to take part via a hospital-based gatekeeper who had no other involvement in the study. FINDINGS Nineteen women consented to take part and were interviewed. Four dominant themes reflective of women's views and experiences emerged during data analysis. These were: 'navigating the system', 'at the end of the day it's just you', 'preparing for and adapting to uncertainty' and 'blessing in disguise'. KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Women experienced added challenges as a result of COVID-19 associated altered care structures and processes. Some changes implemented in response to the pandemic were positively experienced by women. The findings will contribute to and assist in planning future services for women and their partners, and in tailoring care to meet women's expectations and needs as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Panda
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College, 24 D'Olier Street, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Deirdre O'Malley
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College, 24 D'Olier Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paula Barry
- The Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital, Dolphins Barn, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nora Vallejo
- The Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital, Dolphins Barn, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Valerie Smith
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College, 24 D'Olier Street, Dublin, Ireland
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Gemperle M, Grylka-Baeschlin S, Klamroth-Marganska V, Ballmer T, Gantschnig BE, Pehlke-Milde J. Midwives' perception of advantages of health care at a distance during the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland. Midwifery 2021; 105:103201. [PMID: 34864326 PMCID: PMC8580889 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore midwives' perceptions of the advantages of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland. DESIGN Cross-sectional study based on an online survey using quantitative methods. SETTING Midwives working in Switzerland. PARTICIPANTS Self-selected convenience sample of 630 members of the Swiss Federation of Midwives. MEASUREMENT Open questions on advantages of health care at a distance and workrelated characteristics were used in the online questionnaire. The information was coded and integrative content analysis was applied. FINDINGS A good half of the respondents associated telemedicine with either an advantage beyond the pandemic ("Reduced workload", "Improved health care provision", "Greater self-care of clients"), while the others saw a pandemic-related advantage ("Protection from COVID-19", "Maintaining care/counseling in an exceptional situation"), or no advantage at all. Older, more experienced midwives were less likely to see an advantage beyond the pandemic. The motive "Reduced workload" was positively associated with professionals aged younger than 40 years and midwives with up to 14 years of professional experience, and "Protection from COVID-19" was more likely cited by midwives aged 50 and more and by midwives working solely in hospitals. Midwives who stated "Maintaining care" and "Improved health care provision" as motives to embrace telemedicine were more likely to experience health care at a distance as a positive treatment alternative. KEY CONCLUSION Midwives' perceptions of the advantages of health care at a distance vary substantially with age and years of professional experience, as well as workrelated characteristics. Further research is necessary to acquire a sound understanding of underlying reasons, including the sources of the general attitudes involved. IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE Understanding the differences in perceptions of health care at a distance is important in order to improve the work situation of midwives and the health care they provide to women and families. Different sensitivities represent an important source in the ongoing discussion about the future use of telemedicine in health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gemperle
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Midwifery Science, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland; ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, ZHAW digital, Gertrudstrasse 15, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland.
| | - Susanne Grylka-Baeschlin
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Midwifery Science, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland
| | - Verena Klamroth-Marganska
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Occupational Therapy, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Ballmer
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Occupational Therapy, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland
| | - Brigitte E Gantschnig
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Occupational Therapy, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Pehlke-Milde
- ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, School of Health Professions, Research Institute for Midwifery Science, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur 8401, Switzerland
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Relph S, Patel T, Delaney L, Sobhy S, Thangaratinam S. Adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with diabetes-related microvascular disease and risks of disease progression in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003856. [PMID: 34807920 PMCID: PMC8654151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rise in the global prevalence of diabetes, particularly among younger people, has led to an increase in the number of pregnant women with preexisting diabetes, many of whom have diabetes-related microvascular complications. We aimed to estimate the magnitude of the risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes or disease progression in this population. METHODS AND FINDINGS We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis on maternal and perinatal complications in women with type 1 or 2 diabetic microvascular disease and the risk factors for worsening of microvascular disease in pregnancy using a prospective protocol (PROSPERO CRD42017076647). We searched major databases (January 1990 to July 2021) for relevant cohort studies. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We summarized the findings as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using random effects meta-analysis. We included 56 cohort studies involving 12,819 pregnant women with diabetes; including 40 from Europe and 9 from North America. Pregnant women with diabetic nephropathy were at greater risk of preeclampsia (OR 10.76, CI 6.43 to 17.99, p < 0.001), early (<34 weeks) (OR 6.90, 95% CI 3.38 to 14.06, p < 0.001) and any preterm birth (OR 4.48, CI 3.40 to 5.92, p < 0.001), and cesarean section (OR 3.04, CI 1.24 to 7.47, p = 0.015); their babies were at higher risk of perinatal death (OR 2.26, CI 1.07 to 4.75, p = 0.032), congenital abnormality (OR 2.71, CI 1.58 to 4.66, p < 0.001), small for gestational age (OR 16.89, CI 7.07 to 40.37, p < 0.001), and admission to neonatal unit (OR 2.59, CI 1.72 to 3.90, p < 0.001) compared to those without nephropathy. Diabetic retinopathy was associated with any preterm birth (OR 1.67, CI 1.27 to 2.20, p < 0.001) and preeclampsia (OR 2.20, CI 1.57 to 3.10, p < 0.001) but not other complications. The risks of onset or worsening of retinopathy were increased in women who were nulliparous (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.28 to 2.40, p < 0.001), smokers (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.25 to 4.27, p = 0.008), with existing proliferative disease (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.11 to 4.04, p = 0.022), and longer duration of diabetes (weighted mean difference: 4.51 years, 95% CI 2.26 to 6.76, p < 0.001) compared to those without the risk factors. The main limitations of this analysis are the heterogeneity of definition of retinopathy and nephropathy and the inclusion of women both with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS In pregnant women with diabetes, presence of nephropathy and/or retinopathy appear to further increase the risks of maternal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Relph
- Department of Women & Children’s Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Trusha Patel
- Department of Women’s Health, Barnet Hospital, Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louisa Delaney
- Department of Women & Children’s Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Soha Sobhy
- Barts Research Centre for Women’s Health (BARC), Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shakila Thangaratinam
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Global Women’s Health, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
The outbreak and spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has led to an unprecedented wealth of literature on the impact of human coronaviruses on pregnancy. The number of case studies and publications alone are several orders of magnitude larger than those published in all previous human coronavirus outbreaks combined, enabling robust conclusions to be drawn from observations for the first time. However, the importance of learning from previous human coronavirus outbreaks cannot be understated. In this narrative review, we describe what we consider to the major learning points arising from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in relation to pregnancy, and where these confound what might have been expected from previous coronavirus outbreaks.
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Ornaghi S, Fumagalli S, Guinea Montalvo CK, Beretta G, Invernizzi F, Nespoli A, Vergani P. Indirect impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on pregnancy and childbirth outcomes: A nine-month long experience from a university center in Lombardy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 156:466-474. [PMID: 34669973 PMCID: PMC9087530 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective To determine the impact on perinatal health of changes in social policies and obstetric care implemented to curb SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission. However, robust data on the topic are lacking since most of the studies has examined only the first few months of the outbreak. Methods A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on uninfected and asymptomatically infected women giving birth between March and November 2020 and in the same time frame of 2019 at our tertiary care center in Lombardy, northern Italy. Perinatal outcomes were compared according to the year (2019 versus 2020) and to the trimester (March–May, June–August, September–November) of childbirth, corresponding to the three phases of the pandemic (first wave, deceleration, second wave) and covering a 9‐month period. Results We identified increased rates of gestational diabetes mellitus, spontaneous preterm birth, and neuraxial analgesia in 2020 versus 2019, with different temporal distributions: gestational diabetes mellitus and spontaneous preterm birth were more prevalent during the deceleration and the second wave phase, whereas epidural analgesia was more prevalent during the first wave. Conclusion By assessing a prolonged time frame of the pandemic, we show that pandemic‐related control measures, as applied in Lombardy, impacted relevant perinatal outcomes of women giving birth at our center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ornaghi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit of Obstetrics, MBBM Foundation Onlus at San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.,University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
| | - Simona Fumagalli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit of Obstetrics, MBBM Foundation Onlus at San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.,University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Greta Beretta
- University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
| | - Francesca Invernizzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit of Obstetrics, MBBM Foundation Onlus at San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.,University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
| | - Antonella Nespoli
- University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
| | - Patrizia Vergani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit of Obstetrics, MBBM Foundation Onlus at San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.,University of Milan-Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Monza, Italy
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93
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Postpartum women's experiences of social and healthcare professional support during the COVID-19 pandemic: A recurrent cross-sectional thematic analysis. Women Birth 2021; 35:511-520. [PMID: 34756734 PMCID: PMC8553649 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Problem Disrupted access to social and healthcare professional support during the COVID-19 pandemic have had an adverse effect on maternal mental health. Background Motherhood is a key life transition which increases vulnerability to experience negative affect. Aim Explore UK women’s postnatal experiences of social and healthcare professional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 women, approximately 30 days after initial social distancing guidelines were imposed (T1), and a separate 12 women were interviewed approximately 30 days after the initial easing of social distancing restrictions (T2). Recurrent cross-sectional thematic analysis was conducted in NVivo 12. Findings T1 themes were, ‘Motherhood has been an isolating experience’ (exacerbated loneliness due to diminished support accessibility) and ‘Everything is under lock and key’ (confusion, alienation, and anxiety regarding disrupted face-to-face healthcare checks). T2 themes were, ‘Disrupted healthcare professional support’ (feeling burdensome, abandoned, and frustrated by virtual healthcare) and ‘Easing restrictions are bittersweet’ (conflict between enhanced emotional wellbeing, and sadness regarding lost postnatal time). Discussion Respondents at both timepoints were adversely affected by restricted access to informal (family and friends) and formal (healthcare professional) support, which were not sufficiently bridged virtually. Additionally, the prospect of attending face-to-face appointments was anxiety-provoking and perceived as being contradictory to social distancing guidance. Prohibition of family from maternity wards was also salient and distressing for T2, but not T1 respondents. Conclusion Healthcare professionals should encourage maternal help-seeking and provide timely access to mental health services. Improving access to informal and formal face-to-face support are essential in protecting maternal and infant wellbeing.
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94
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Jackson L, De Pascalis L, Harrold JA, Fallon V, Silverio SA. Postpartum women's psychological experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic: a modified recurrent cross-sectional thematic analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:625. [PMID: 34530772 PMCID: PMC8445650 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has placed additional stressors on mothers during an already vulnerable lifecourse transition. Initial social distancing restrictions (Timepoint 1; T1) and initial changes to those social distancing restrictions (Timepoint 2; T2) have disrupted postpartum access to practical and emotional support. This qualitative study explores the postpartum psychological experiences of UK women during different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated 'lockdowns'. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 women, approximately 30 days after initial social distancing guidelines were imposed in the UK (22 April 2020). A separate 12 women were interviewed approximately 30 days after the initial easing of social distancing restrictions (10 June 2020). Data were transcribed verbatim, uploaded into NVivo for management and analysis, which followed a recurrent cross-sectional approach to thematic analysis. RESULTS Two main themes were identified for T1: 'Motherhood is Much Like Lockdown' and 'A Self-Contained Family Unit'. Each main T1 theme contained two sub-themes. Two main themes were also identified for T2: 'Incongruously Held Views of COVID-19' and 'Mothering Amidst the Pandemic'. Each main T2 theme contained three sub-themes. Comparisons between data gathered at each timepoint identified increased emotional distress over time. Current findings call for the improvement of postpartum care by improving accessibility to social support, and prioritising the re-opening of schools, and face-to-face healthcare appointments and visitation. CONCLUSION Social distancing restrictions associated with COVID-19 have had a cumulative, negative effect on postpartum mental health. Recommendations such as: Allowing mothers to 'bubble' with a primary support provider even at their healthcare appointments; allowing one support partner to attend all necessary healthcare appointments; and providing tailored informational resources, may help to support postpartum emotional wellbeing during this, and similar health crises in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Jackson
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, Merseyside, L69 7ZA, UK.
| | - Leonardo De Pascalis
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, Merseyside, L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Joanne A Harrold
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, Merseyside, L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Victoria Fallon
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, Merseyside, L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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95
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John JR, Curry G, Cunningham-Burley S. Exploring ethnic minority women's experiences of maternity care during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050666. [PMID: 34489290 PMCID: PMC8423508 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the experiences of pregnancy, childbirth, antenatal and postnatal care in women belonging to ethnic minorities and to identify any specific challenges that these women faced during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. DESIGN This was a qualitative study using semistructured interviews of pregnant women or those who were 6 weeks postnatal from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. The study included 16 women in a predominantly urban Scottish health board area. RESULTS The finding are presented in four themes: 'communication', 'interactions with healthcare professionals', 'racism' and 'the pandemic effect'. Each theme had relevant subthemes. 'Communication' encompassed respect, accent bias, language barrier and cultural dissonance; 'interactions with healthcare professionals': continuity of care, empathy, informed decision making and dissonance with other healthcare systems; 'racism' was deemed to be institutional, interpersonal or internalised; and 'the pandemic effect' consisted of isolation, psychological impact and barriers to access of care. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insight into the specific challenges faced by ethnic minority women in pregnancy, which intersect with the unique problems posed by the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic to potentially widen existing ethnic disparities in maternal outcomes and experiences of maternity care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeeva Reeba John
- Centre for Biomedicine, Self, and Society, The University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gwenetta Curry
- The University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah Cunningham-Burley
- Centre for Biomedicine, Self, and Society, The University of Edinburgh, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh, UK
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96
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Carbone L, Raffone A, Travaglino A, Sarno L, Conforti A, Gabrielli O, De Vivo V, De Rosa M, Migliorini S, Saccone G, Locci M, Alviggi C, Mollo A, Guida M, Zullo F, Maruotti GM. Obstetric A&E unit admission and hospitalization for obstetrical management during COVID-19 pandemic in a third-level hospital of southern Italy. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 305:859-867. [PMID: 34455467 PMCID: PMC8403252 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06212-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread in Italy since February 2020, inducing the government to call for lockdown of any activity, apart primary needs, during the months March–May 2020. During the lockdown, a reduction of admissions and hospitalizations for ischemic diseases was noticed. Purpose of this study was to observe if there has been the same reduction trend in Accident & Emergency (A&E) unit admissions also for obstetric-gynecological conditions. Methods Medical records and electronic clinical databases were searched for all patients who were admitted to the obstetric A&E department or hospitalized at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit of University hospital of Naples Federico II, during the quarter March–May in the years 2019 and 2020. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of monthly admission to the obstetric A&E department and hospitalization of the year 2020 was compared with that of the year 2019, using the unpaired T test with α error set to 0.05 and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results Admissions were 1483 in the year 2020 and 1786 in 2019. Of total, 1225 (37.5%) women were hospitalized: 583 in the year 2020, 642 in 2019. Mean ± SD of patients monthly admitted to our obstetric A&E department was 494 ± 33.7 in the year 2020, and 595.3 ± 30.9 in 2019, with a mean difference of − 101.3 (95% CI − 103.5 to − 99.1; p < 0.0001). Mean ± SD of patients monthly hospitalized to our department was 194 ± 19.1 in the year 2020, 213.7 ± 4.7 in 2019, with a mean difference of − 19.7 (95% CI − 23.8 to − 15.6; p < 0.0001). Conclusion A significant decrease in the mean of monthly admissions and hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic when compared to the previous year was found also for obstetric–gynecological conditions. Further studies are necessary to assess COVID-19 impact and to take the most appropriate countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Carbone
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Raffone
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Antonio Travaglino
- Pathology Unit, Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Sarno
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Olimpia Gabrielli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentino De Vivo
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina De Rosa
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Sonia Migliorini
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriele Saccone
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariavittoria Locci
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Mollo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, Schola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guida
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fulvio Zullo
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maria Maruotti
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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97
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Shah PS, Ye XY, Yang J, Campitelli MA. Preterm birth and stillbirth rates during the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based cohort study. CMAJ 2021; 193:E1164-E1172. [PMID: 34344771 PMCID: PMC8354648 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.210081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Conflicting reports have emerged for rates of preterm births and stillbirths during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of these reports did not account for natural variation in these rates. We aimed to evaluate variations in preterm birth and stillbirth rates before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using linked population health administrative databases of pregnant people giving birth in any hospital in Ontario between July 2002 and December 2020. We calculated preterm birth and stillbirth rates. We assessed preterm birth at 22–28, 29–32 and 33–36 weeks’ gestation, and stillbirths at term and preterm gestation. We used Laney control P′ charts for the 18-year study period (6-mo observation periods) and interrupted time-series analyses for monthly rates for the most recent 4 years. RESULTS: We evaluated 2 465 387 pregnancies, including 13 781 that resulted in stillbirth. The mean preterm birth rate for our cohort was 7.96% (range 7.32%–8.59%). From January to December 2020, we determined that the preterm birth rate in Ontario was 7.87%, with no special cause variation. The mean stillbirth rate for the cohort was 0.56% (range 0.48%–0.70%). From January to December 2020, the stillbirth rate was 0.53%, with no special cause variation. We did not find any special cause variation for preterm birth or stillbirth subgroups. We found no changes in slope or gap between prepandemic and pandemic periods using interrupted time-series analyses. INTERPRETATION: In Ontario, Canada, we found no special cause variation (unusual change) in preterm birth or stillbirth rates, overall or by subgroups, during the first 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic compared with the previous 17.5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakesh S Shah
- Department of Pediatrics and Maternal-Infant Care Research Centre (Shah, Ye, Yang), Mount Sinai Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (Shah), University of Toronto; ICES (Campitelli), Toronto, Ont.
| | - Xiang Y Ye
- Department of Pediatrics and Maternal-Infant Care Research Centre (Shah, Ye, Yang), Mount Sinai Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (Shah), University of Toronto; ICES (Campitelli), Toronto, Ont
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Pediatrics and Maternal-Infant Care Research Centre (Shah, Ye, Yang), Mount Sinai Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (Shah), University of Toronto; ICES (Campitelli), Toronto, Ont
| | - Michael A Campitelli
- Department of Pediatrics and Maternal-Infant Care Research Centre (Shah, Ye, Yang), Mount Sinai Hospital; Department of Pediatrics (Shah), University of Toronto; ICES (Campitelli), Toronto, Ont
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98
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Silverio SA, De Backer K, Easter A, von Dadelszen P, Magee LA, Sandall J. Women's experiences of maternity service reconfiguration during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative investigation. Midwifery 2021; 102:103116. [PMID: 34399382 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore women's experiences of maternity service reconfiguration during the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. DESIGN Qualitative interview study. SETTING South London, United Kingdom. PARTICIPANTS Women (N=23) who gave birth between March and August 2020 in one of the ten South London maternity hospitals. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted (N=23), via video-conferencing software. Transcribed interviews were analysed 'by hand' using Microsoft Word. Template analysis was selected to code, analyse, and interpret data, according to the findings of a recently-published national survey of maternity service reconfiguration across the UK in response to COVID-19. FINDINGS Three main themes emerged through analysis: (i) Disruption to In-Person Care and Increased Virtual Care Provision, (ii) Changes to Labour and Birth Preferences and Plans, (iii) Advice for Navigating Maternity Services During a Pandemic. KEY CONCLUSIONS Women reported mixed views on the reduction in scheduled in-person appointments. The increase in remote care, especially via telephone, was not well endorsed by women. Furthermore, women reported an under-reliance on healthcare professionals for support, rather turning to family. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE We provide insight into the experiences of women who received antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings should inform healthcare policy to build back better maternity care services after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Silverio
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK.; Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University College London, Medical School Building, 74 Huntley Street, London, Bloomsbury, WC1E 6AU, UK..
| | - Kaat De Backer
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK.; Kingfisher Mother and Baby Unit, Hellesdon Hospital, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Drayton High Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 5BE, UK
| | - Abigail Easter
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Peter von Dadelszen
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Laura A Magee
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Jane Sandall
- Department of Women & Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 10th Floor North Wing, St. Thomas' Hospital, Westminster Bridge Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 7EH, UK
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Results of Pregnancy Control before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparison of Two Cohorts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158182. [PMID: 34360483 PMCID: PMC8345982 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic placed pregnant women at high risk, but behavioural changes have also led to lower rates of preterm births in high-income countries. The main goal of this article is to study the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnancy control and outcomes; this is a joint analysis of two cohorts. The pre-pandemic cohort includes 969 pregnant women recruited in 2018. The pandemic cohort comprises 1168 pregnant women recruited in 2020. Information on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, reproductive history, characteristics of the current pregnancy and its outcome were obtained from medical records. Birth by Caesarean section was more frequent in the pre-pandemic cohort (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.55-0.92). A birth weight lower than 2500 g and higher than 4000 g occurred more frequently in the pre-pandemic cohort (adjusted OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.41-0.93 for lower than 2500 g and adjusted OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.20-0.46 for higher than 4000 g). Exclusive breastfeeding upon hospital discharge was more frequent in the pandemic cohort than in the pre-pandemic cohort (60% vs. 54%, p = 0.005), with adjusted OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.52-0.86 for mixed breastfeeding and infant formula. In conclusion, we report reductions in Caesarean sections and reduced numbers of low birth weight babies during the pandemic in a hospital located in northern Spain. Further analysis will clarify if these reductions are related to changes in health-related behaviour or healthcare operation.
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100
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Cena L, Rota M, Calza S, Massardi B, Trainini A, Stefana A. Estimating the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Maternal and Perinatal Health Care Services in Italy: Results of a Self-Administered Survey. Front Public Health 2021; 9:701638. [PMID: 34336776 PMCID: PMC8323996 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.701638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is strongly changing the way most people live their lives, and disrupting specialist healthcare systems. Such public health disruptions have resulted in significant collateral damage with particular implications for vulnerable populations, including the perinatal population. This Study aims to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian maternal and perinatal health care services. A questionnaire was designed to evaluate the COVID-19 impact on Italian maternal and perinatal healthcare facilities and their activities and provision of services from March to May 2020. The survey was completed by hospital-based and community-based Italian maternal and perinatal healthcare facilities. Most of these were located in Lombardy or Veneto (the most affected Italian regions). 70% of all facilities reported that the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic negatively influenced the functioning of one or more aspects of the perinatal service; only 28.4% of facilities all over the country continued to provide outpatient routine visits and examinations as usual; 23.4% of facilities became understaffed during the index period due to various reasons such as ward transfer and sick leave. This is the first Italian study, and among very few international studies that describe the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on antenatal and postnatal healthcare facilities and their provision of activities and services. Our findings confirm that healthcare systems even in high-income countries were not entirely prepared to handle such a global health emergency; indeed, specialized maternal and perinatal healthcare services have been disrupted by this global health emergency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Cena
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Section of Neuroscience, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Matteo Rota
- Units of Biostatistics and Biomathematics and Bioinformatics, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Calza
- Units of Biostatistics and Biomathematics and Bioinformatics, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Massardi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Trainini
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Section of Neuroscience, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Stefana
- Observatory of Perinatal Clinical Psychology, Section of Neuroscience, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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