1
|
Stanek J. Clinical Significance of the Large Fetal Vessel Lesions in Placental Fetal Vascular Malperfusion. J Transl Med 2024; 104:102089. [PMID: 38810837 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2024.102089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) is an important pattern of placental injury. Although the significance of distal villous FVM (clusters of sclerotic and/or mineralized chorionic villi) is well documented, the clinical significance of proximal (large vessel) lesions of FVM is less clear, which is the aim of this retrospective analysis. To evaluate the clinical significance and placental associations of single and coexisting categories of lesions of large vessel FVM, 24 clinical and 44 placental phenotypes of 804 consecutive placentas with at least 1 lesion of proximal vessel FVM from the second half of pregnancy, divided according to the type or category of the individual FVM lesion (fetal vascular ectasia, fetal vascular thrombi, intramural fibrin deposition, and stem vessel obliteration): 689, 341, 286, and 267 placentas, respectively (first analysis) and single or coexisting large fetal vessel lesions (1, 2, 3, and 4 coexisting categories of lesions: 276, 321, 162, and 45 placentas, respectively) were statistically compared (analysis of variance, χ2, univariate analysis). Because of multiple comparisons, Bonferroni-corrected P < .001 was used as a threshold of statistical significance. In this population of high-risk pregnancies dominated by fetal congenital anomalies, single individual or 1 to 2 coexisting categories of lesions of the large vessel FVM, including fetal vascular thrombi, did not consistently correlate with clinical or placental variables and were not prognostically useful, but the coexistence of 3 or 4 lesions was associated with the most advanced gestational age, fetal congenital anomalies, distal villous FVM, particularly high-grade, chorangioma or chorangiomatosis, hypercoiled umbilical cord, perivascular stem edema, and marginate or vallate placenta. Therefore, the finding of multiple lesions of the large vessel FVM not only merits a diligent search for the distal villous lesions including the CD34 immunostaining, but also justifies putting the large vessel (global) FVM on the final placental diagnosis line, which in the case of up to only 2 lesions may not be justified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Stanek
- Division of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Silver RM, Reddy U. Stillbirth: we can do better. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00628-8. [PMID: 38789073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Stillbirth is far too common, occurring in millions of pregnancies per year globally. The rate of stillbirth (defined as death of a fetus prior to birth at 20 weeks' gestation or more) in the United States is 5.73 per 1000. This is approximately 1 in 175 pregnancies accounting for about 21,000 stillbirths per year. Although rates are much higher in low-income countries, the stillbirth rate in the United States is much higher than most high resource countries. Moreover, there are substantial disparities in stillbirth, with rates twice as high for non-Hispanic Black and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders compared to non-Hispanic Whites. There is considerable opportunity for reduction in stillbirths, even in high resource countries such as the United States. In this article, we review the epidemiology, risk factors, causes, evaluation, medical and emotional management, and prevention of stillbirth. We focus on novel data regarding genetic etiologies, placental assessment, risk stratification, and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Silver
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Divisions of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT.
| | - Uma Reddy
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Divisions of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cai F, Hamm RF, Schwartz N. FATE: The Effect of Fetal Antenatal Testing Education on Patient Knowledge and Satisfaction. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e788-e793. [PMID: 36096149 PMCID: PMC10172386 DOI: 10.1055/a-1941-4414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a physician-created educational infographic on the knowledge and attitudes of patients undergoing antenatal fetal surveillance. STUDY DESIGN This single-center prospective cohort study evaluated the impact of implementing an electronic educational infographic about antenatal fetal surveillance. English-speaking women receiving antenatal surveillance between the ages of 18 to 50 years were approached for inclusion. The preimplementation group enrolled women receiving antenatal surveillance between March 8, 2021, and April 2, 2021, who received usual care. Postimplementation, from April 5 to May 6, 2021, patients at our site received the infographic about antenatal fetal surveillance at their first antenatal testing appointment. Both pre- and postimplementation groups received a 5-question multiple-choice knowledge and 12-question attitude survey between 320/7 to 336/7 weeks at baseline (prior to receipt of infographic in postimplementation group) and again between 350/7 to 366/7 weeks. Patients were included in the analysis only if they completed both surveys. Differences from initial to final survey were compared between groups. RESULTS Of 106 patients who completed the initial survey, 74 (69.8%) participants finished both surveys (preimplementation = 39 and postimplementation = 35). There were no significant differences in demographics between the two groups, including in baseline knowledge (p = 0.58) or attitude tests (p = 0.57). There was no significant difference in knowledge on final surveys between groups (p = 0.79). However, utilization of the infographic was associated with a significant increase in attitude survey score from initial to final survey in the postimplementation group as compared with usual care (median difference: pre = 0, interquartile rang [IQR]: [-1 to +4] vs. post = +3, IQR: [+1 to +6], p = 0.016). CONCLUSION A physician-created infographic on antepartum fetal testing was associated with overall improved patient attitude toward fetal testing, showing that small education interventions can increase patient satisfaction with care. KEY POINTS · A physician-created, readable, and patient-oriented education resource is feasible.. · Infographic patient-education materials do not change patient knowledge about antenatal testing.. · Infographic patient-education materials can improve patient attitude toward antenatal testing..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Cai
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Rebecca F. Hamm
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nadav Schwartz
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Adams A, Dongarwar D, Shay L, Baroni M, Williams E, Ehieze P, Wilson R, Awoseyi A, Salihu HM. Social Determinants of Health and Risk of Stillbirth in the United States. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e477-e485. [PMID: 36055282 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1756141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to evaluate the impact of social determinants of health (SDoH) risk factors on stillbirth among pregnancy-related hospitalizations in the United States. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of delivery-related hospital discharges using annualized data (2016-2017) from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's Nationwide Inpatient Sample. The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision ICD-10-CM codes were used to select women with singleton stillbirth. Z-codes were utilized to identify SDoH risk factors and their subtypes. The association between SDoH risk factors and stillbirth was assessed using survey logistic regression models. RESULTS We analyzed 8,148,646 hospitalizations, out of which 91,140 were related to stillbirth hospitalizations, yielding a stillbirth incidence of 1.1%. An increased incidence was observed for non-Hispanic (NH) Blacks (1.7%) when compared with NH Whites (1.0%). The incidence of stillbirth was greater in hospitalizations associated with SDoH risk factors compared with those without risk factors [2.0% vs. 1.1% (p <0.001)]. Among patients with SDoH risk factors, the rate of stillbirth was highest in those designated as NH other (3.0%). Mothers that presented with SDoH risk factors had a 60% greater risk of stillbirth compared with those without (odds ratio [OR] = 1.61 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.33-1.95], p < 0.001). The SDoH issues that showed the most significant risk for stillbirth were: occupational risk (OR = 7.05 [95% CI: 3.54-9.58], p < 0.001), upbringing (OR = 1.87 [95% CI: 1.23-2.82], p < 0.001), and primary support group and family (OR = 5.45 [95% 3.84-7.76], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION We found pregnancies bearing SDoH risk factors to be associated with a 60% elevated risk for stillbirth. Future studies should target a variety of risk reduction strategies aimed at modifiable SDoH risk factors that can be widely implemented at both the population health level as well as in the direct clinical setting. KEY POINTS · Health disparities exist in stillbirth rates, especially among NH Black women.. · Social determinants of health risk factors increase the risk of stillbirth.. · There is a need for further study on the impact of specific SDoH risk factors on stillbirth risk..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- April Adams
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Deepa Dongarwar
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Lena Shay
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Mariana Baroni
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Eunique Williams
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Priscilla Ehieze
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Rhanna Wilson
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Alexia Awoseyi
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Hamisu M Salihu
- Center of Excellence in Health Equity, Training, and Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wolfson C, Qian J, Creanga AA. Levels, Trends, and Risk Factors for Stillbirths in the United States: 2000-2017. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e601-e611. [PMID: 35973798 DOI: 10.1055/a-1925-2131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study documents 2000 to 2017 trends in stillbirth rates and changes in associations between known maternal and fetal risk factors and stillbirths for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017 in the United States. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a retrospective, population-based analysis of stillbirths and live-births using national vital statistics data. We calculated annual stillbirth rates overall and by gestational age; and examined stillbirth rates by maternal age, race-ethnicity, and state for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017. We used Chi-squared tests to examine associations between maternal and fetal risk factors separately for early (20-27 weeks) and late (28+ weeks) stillbirths compared with live-births for 2000 to 2002 versus 2015 to 2017. RESULTS Stillbirth rates declined by 7.5% (p < 0.001) during 2000 to 2006 but remained flat at approximately 6 stillbirths per 1,000 births thereafter. Throughout 2000 to 2017, there were significant improvements in stillbirth rates at 39+ weeks nationally (p < 0.001), but rates varied greatly between and within states. Sociodemographic (advanced maternal age, Black race, low education, unmarried status, and rural residence), obstetric, and other medical factors (>3 births, use of infertility treatment, maternal obesity, diabetes, chronic hypertension, eclampsia, no prenatal care, and tobacco use) were significantly more prevalent in women with late than early stillbirths or live births. Notably, late and total stillbirth rates were approximately 30% higher for women >35 years than for women <35 years and twice as high for non-Hispanic Black than non-Hispanic White women; American Indian/Alaska Native women represented the only racial-ethnic group with significantly higher late stillbirth rates in 2015 to 2017 than in 2000 to 2002. Pregnancy and fetal factors (multiple pregnancy, male fetus, and breech presentation) were more prevalent in women with early than late stillbirths or live births. CONCLUSION U.S. stillbirth rates have plateaued since 2006. There are persistent differential risk profiles for early versus late stillbirths which can inform stillbirth prevention strategies (e.g., close observation of women with risk factors for stillbirth) and new research into the causes of stillbirths by gestational age. KEY POINTS · U.S. stillbirth rates have plateaued since 2006.. · Stillbirth rates vary between and within U.S. states and by maternal and fetal factors.. · Early versus late stillbirths have different risk profiles which can guide stillbirth prevention strategies..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Wolfson
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jiage Qian
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andreea A Creanga
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nyarko SH, Greenberg LT, Phibbs CS, Buzas JS, Lorch SA, Rogowski J, Saade GR, Passarella M, Boghossian NS. Association between stillbirth and severe maternal morbidity. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:364.e1-364.e14. [PMID: 37659745 PMCID: PMC10904670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe maternal morbidity has been increasing in the past few decades. Few studies have examined the risk of severe maternal morbidity among individuals with stillbirths vs individuals with live-birth deliveries. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the prevalence and risk of severe maternal morbidity among individuals with stillbirths vs individuals with live-birth deliveries during delivery hospitalization as a primary outcome and during the postpartum period as a secondary outcome. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study using birth and fetal death certificate data linked to hospital discharge records from California (2008-2018), Michigan (2008-2020), Missouri (2008-2014), Pennsylvania (2008-2014), and South Carolina (2008-2020). Relative risk regression analysis was used to examine the crude and adjusted relative risks of severe maternal morbidity along with 95% confidence intervals among individuals with stillbirths vs individuals with live-birth deliveries, adjusting for birth year, state of residence, maternal sociodemographic characteristics, and the obstetric comorbidity index. RESULTS Of the 8,694,912 deliveries, 35,012 (0.40%) were stillbirths. Compared with individuals with live-birth deliveries, those with stillbirths were more likely to be non-Hispanic Black (10.8% vs 20.5%); have Medicaid (46.5% vs 52.0%); have pregnancy complications, including preexisting diabetes mellitus (1.1% vs 4.3%), preexisting hypertension (2.3% vs 6.2%), and preeclampsia (4.4% vs 8.4%); have multiple pregnancies (1.6% vs 6.2%); and reside in South Carolina (7.4% vs 11.6%). During delivery hospitalization, the prevalence rates of severe maternal morbidity were 791 cases per 10,000 deliveries for stillbirths and 154 cases per 10,000 deliveries for live-birth deliveries, whereas the prevalence rates for nontransfusion severe maternal morbidity were 502 cases per 10,000 deliveries for stillbirths and 68 cases per 10,000 deliveries for live-birth deliveries. The crude relative risk for severe maternal morbidity was 5.1 (95% confidence interval, 4.9-5.3), whereas the adjusted relative risk was 1.6 (95% confidence interval, 1.5-1.8). For nontransfusion severe maternal morbidity among stillbirths vs live-birth deliveries, the crude relative risk was 7.4 (95% confidence interval, 7.0-7.7), whereas the adjusted relative risk was 2.0 (95% confidence interval, 1.8-2.3). This risk was not only elevated among individuals with stillbirth during the delivery hospitalization but also through 1 year after delivery (severe maternal morbidity adjusted relative risk, 1.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.4; nontransfusion severe maternal morbidity adjusted relative risk, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.3). CONCLUSION Stillbirth was found to be an important contributor to severe maternal morbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel H Nyarko
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | | | - Ciaran S Phibbs
- Health Economics Resource Center and Center for Implementation to Innovation, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA; Perinatal Epidemiology and Health Outcomes Research Unit, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Jeffrey S Buzas
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | - Scott A Lorch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jeannette Rogowski
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA
| | - George R Saade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA
| | - Molly Passarella
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nansi S Boghossian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Savitsky LM, Hamilton C, Sterrett M, Olerich K, Ma K, Albright CM. Universal Fetal Echocardiography for Pregestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. Obstet Gynecol 2024:00006250-990000000-01035. [PMID: 38422504 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cost effectiveness of universal fetal echocardiogram for patients with pregestational diabetes mellitus by first-trimester hemoglobin A1c (Hb A1c) level. METHODS We developed a cost-effectiveness model comparing two strategies of screening for critical fetal congenital heart disease among patients with diabetes: universal fetal echocardiogram and fetal echocardiogram only after abnormal findings on detailed anatomy ultrasonogram. We excluded ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defects, and bicuspid aortic valve from the definition of critical fetal congenital heart disease. Probabilities and costs were derived from the literature. We used individual models to evaluate different scenarios: first-trimester Hb A1c lower than 6.5%, Hb A1c 6.5-9.0%, and Hb A1c higher than 9.0%. Primary outcomes included fetal death, neonatal death, and false-positive and false-negative results. A cost-effectiveness threshold was set at $100,000 per quality-adjusted life-year. Univariable sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate the drivers of the model. RESULTS Universal fetal echocardiogram is not cost effective except for when first-trimester Hb A1c level is higher than 9.0% (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio $638,100, $223,693, and $67,697 for Hb A1c lower than 6.5%, 6.5-9.0%, and higher than 9.0%, respectively). The models are sensitive to changes in the probability of congenital heart disease at a given Hb A1c level, as well as the cost of neonatal transfer to a higher level of care. Universal fetal echocardiogram became both cost saving and more effective when the probability of congenital heart disease reached 14.48% (15.4 times the baseline risk). In the Monte Carlo simulation, universal fetal echocardiogram is cost effective in 22.7%, 48.6%, and 62.3% of scenarios for each of the three models, respectively. CONCLUSION For pregnant patients with first-trimester Hb A1c levels lower than 6.5%, universal fetal echocardiogram was not cost effective, whereas, for those with first-trimester Hb A1c levels higher than 9.0%, universal fetal echocardiogram was cost effective. For those with intermediate Hb A1c levels, universal fetal echocardiogram was cost effective in about 50% of cases; therefore, clinical judgment based on individual patient values, willingness to pay to detect congenital heart disease, and resource availability needs to be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah M Savitsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, and the Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Providence Swedish Hospital, Seattle, Washington; and the Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Kaiser San Diego, San Diego, California
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Giordano JL, Wapner RJ. Genomics of stillbirth. Semin Perinatol 2024; 48:151866. [PMID: 38238216 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Stillbirth, defined as fetal death at 20 weeks gestation or later, is a devastating pregnancy outcome affecting 1 in 175 pregnancies in the United States. Although efforts to understand the etiology of stillbirth have expanded, 25 % of cases remain unexplained and some cases previously thought to be explained may have additional unknown causative factors. Determining an etiology for stillbirth is important for clinical management and for grieving families to obtain closure, to find meaning, and to understand recurrence risks. However, the evaluation of stillbirth is not completed uniformly despite American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) guidelines and stillbirth data is frequently incomplete due to lack of genomic analysis, fetal autopsy, and placental pathology. Karyotype and chromosomal microarray have been the gold standard in genetic analysis in perinatal medicine for many years, but next generation sequencing holds promise towards improving diagnostic yields and providing clarity for both clinicians and patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Giordano
- Division of Women's Genetics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
| | - Ronald J Wapner
- Division of Women's Genetics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Devabhaktuni A, Pilliod RA, Caughey AB, Valent AM. The Risk of Perinatal Mortality in Nulliparous Women Compared to Primiparous Women at Term. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:270-275. [PMID: 34666381 DOI: 10.1055/a-1673-0527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the rate of perinatal mortality among nulliparous women compared with primiparous women at term and further characterize the risk of stillbirth by each week of gestation. STUDY DESIGN This is a retrospective cohort study of all term, singleton, nonanomalous births comparing perinatal mortality (stillbirth and neonatal death [NND]) between primiparous (parity = 1, with no history of abortion) and nulliparous (parity = 0) women who delivered in California between 2007 and 2011. Chi-squared tests and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the frequencies and strength of association of perinatal mortality with parity, adjusting for maternal age, race, body mass index, pregestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, fetal sex, smoking status, and socioeconomic status. The risk of stillbirth at each gestational age at term was calculated using a pregnancies-at-risk life table method. A p-value less than 0.05 was used to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS Of 1,317,761 total deliveries, 765,995 (58.1%) were to nulliparous women and 551,766 (41.9%) were to primiparous women with one prior birth. Nulliparous women had increased odds of stillbirth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.93-3.72) and NND (aOR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.19-1.98) compared with primiparous women. The risk of stillbirth in nulliparous women was greater at every gestational age between 370/7 and 410/7 weeks compared with primiparous women. Nulliparous women also had increased odds of small for gestational age infants at less than 10% birth weight (aOR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.72-1.79), less than 5% birth weight (aOR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.86-1.98), and less than 3% birth weight (aOR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.93-2.11). CONCLUSION Perinatal mortality is significantly greater in nulliparous women compared with primiparous women with term deliveries. These findings suggest that low-risk nulliparous women may require increased surveillance. There may be a role in improving maternal health by maximizing physiologic adaptation in nulliparous women. KEY POINTS · Parity is associated with perinatal mortality.. · Perinatal mortality is significantly greater in nulliparous women compared with primiparous women.. · The risk of stillbirth in nulliparous women is greater at every gestational age compared with primiparous women..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Devabhaktuni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Rachel A Pilliod
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Aaron B Caughey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Amy M Valent
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gandhi C, Page J. Stillbirth risk factors, causes and evaluation. Semin Perinatol 2024; 48:151867. [PMID: 38163743 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Stillbirth impacts 5.73 per 1,000 births in the United States and this rate exceeds that of contemporary high-resource countries.1,2 Risk factors include both demographic and medical characteristics. There are also numerous pathophysiologic mechanisms that can lead to stillbirth. Unfortunately, these risk factors are fairly common, making stillbirth risk stratification and prevention challenging. This is due in part to a large number of unexplained stillbirths. In a large, multi-center study of stillbirths, approximately 24% of stillbirths remained unexplained following thorough, standardized evaluation.3 The number of unexplained stillbirths is unquestionably larger outside of a rigorous study protocol, but real-world data are lacking. This large proportion of unexplained stillbirth cases makes achieving further decreases in the stillbirth rate difficult given lack of understanding of underlying causes in this population. Cause of death identification can be improved with adoption of an evidence-based, comprehensive stillbirth evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christy Gandhi
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, United States.
| | - Jessica Page
- Intermountain Health, University of Utah, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Izadi N, Aminian O, Ghafourian K, Aghdaee A, Samadanian S. Reproductive outcomes among female health care workers. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:44. [PMID: 38229075 PMCID: PMC10792822 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02890-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Occupational exposures may be associated with reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes. This study investigated the association between occupational exposures and reproductive health, pregnancy outcomes, and the lactation period among hospital staff. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seven hundred thirty-three female healthcare workers from hospitals affiliated with the Tehran University of Medical Sciences were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. The measurement method for fertility consequences was self-report. Demographic characteristics, occupational data, medical history, and reproductive history were collected via data collection form. Finally, reproductive outcomes were evaluated in different occupational hazard categories. RESULT Chemical exposures (solvents) were a risk factor for stillbirth. Prolonged working hours were associated with spontaneous abortion and breastfeeding periods. Shift workers did not have a higher frequency of reproductive and pregnancy outcomes, but the breastfeeding period was significantly decreased in shift workers. Psychiatric disorders were associated with preterm labour, low birth weight, and stillbirth in sequence with nervousness, depression, and mood disturbance. Furthermore, depression affects the breastfeeding period. Moreover, we found a link between job titles and infertility. In addition, socioeconomic status was related to stillbirth and infertility. CONCLUSION The study revealed that chemical and ergonomic exposures have associations with some reproductive outcomes. We also conclude that shift work could adversely affect the breastfeeding period. So, implementing some organizational strategies to control adverse health effects of occupational hazards and modifying shift work and working hours for nursing mothers is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Izadi
- Center for research on occupational diseases, Tehran University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Aminian
- Center for research on occupational diseases, Tehran University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiana Ghafourian
- School of medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - AmirHossein Aghdaee
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Samadanian
- Center for research on occupational diseases, Tehran University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Al Khalaf S, Kublickiene K, Kublickas M, Khashan AS, Heazell AEP. Risk of stillbirth and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a third pregnancy when an earlier pregnancy has ended in stillbirth. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:111-120. [PMID: 37891707 PMCID: PMC10755120 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our study evaluated how a history of stillbirth in either of the first two pregnancies affects the risk of having a stillbirth or other adverse pregnancy outcomes in the third subsequent pregnancy. MATERIAL AND METHODS We used the Swedish Medical Birth Register to define a population-based cohort of women who had at least three singleton births from 1973 to 2012. The exposure of interest was a history of stillbirth in either of the first two pregnancies. The primary outcome was subsequent stillbirth in the third pregnancy. Secondary outcomes included: preterm birth, preeclampsia, placental abruption and small-for-gestational-age infant. Adjusted logistic regression was performed including maternal age, body mass index, smoking, diabetes and hypertension. A sensitivity analysis was performed excluding stillbirths associated with congenital anomalies, pregestational and gestational diabetes, hypertension and preterm stillbirths. RESULTS The study contained data on 1 316 175 births, including 8911 stillbirths. Compared with women who had two live births, the highest odds of stillbirth in the third pregnancy were observed in women who had two stillbirths (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 11.40, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.75-47.70), followed by those who had stillbirth in the second birth (live birth-stillbirth) (aOR 3.59, 95% CI 2.58-4.98), but the odds were still elevated in those whose first birth ended in stillbirth (stillbirth-live birth) (aOR 2.35, 1.68, 3.28). Preterm birth, pre-eclampsia and placental abruption followed a similar pattern. The odds of having a small-for-gestational-age infant were highest in women whose first birth ended in stillbirth (aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.66-2.24). The increased odds of having a stillbirth in a third pregnancy when either of the earlier births ended in stillbirth remained when stillbirths associated with congenital anomalies, pregestational and gestational diabetes, hypertension or preterm stillbirths were excluded. However, when preterm stillbirths were excluded, the strength of the association was reduced. CONCLUSIONS Even when they have had a live-born infant, women with a history of stillbirth have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes; this cannot be solely accounted for by the recurrence of congenital anomalies or maternal medical disorders. This suggests that women with a history of stillbirth should be offered additional surveillance for subsequent pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sukainah Al Khalaf
- School of Public HealthUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- Mohammed Al‐Mana College for Medical SciencesDammamSaudi Arabia
| | - Karolina Kublickiene
- Department of Clinical Intervention, Science and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska InstitutetKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Marius Kublickas
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKarolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Ali S. Khashan
- School of Public HealthUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- INFANT Research CentreUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Alexander E. P. Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Medical and HealthUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
- Saint Mary's HospitalManchester University NHS Foundation TrustManchesterUK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ahmed I, Ghanchi NK, Sunder Tikmani S, Hwang K, Zafar A, Saleem S, Uddin Z, Harakuni S, Somannavar MS, Kulkarni V, Guruprasad G, Goudar SS, Kim J, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. Placental inflammation and pregnancy outcomes: A prospective, observational study in South Asia: The PURPOSe study. BJOG 2023; 130 Suppl 3:43-52. [PMID: 37671586 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine inflammatory lesions in placentas of stillbirths, preterm neonatal deaths and term controls in India and Pakistan. DESIGN Prospective, observational study. SETTING Three hospitals in India and a large maternity hospital in Pakistan. POPULATION The enrolled participants with placentas available for histology evaluation included stillbirths (n = 814), preterm live births who died within 28 days of birth (n = 618) and term live birth controls (n = 201). From this same population, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for pathogens was performed on 809 stillbirth placentas, 614 neonatal death placentas and the placentas of 201 term controls. Placentas from preterm infants who lived beyond day 28 (n = 1432) were only available from India. METHODS A prospective observational study of placental inflammatory lesions defined by the Amsterdam criteria and on the same placentas, multiplex PCR evaluation for 75 pathogens using TaqMan Array Cards. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Any placental inflammatory lesions, including chorioamnionitis, funisitis, villitis and intervillitis and their association with various pathogens. RESULTS In the Indian liveborn preterm infants, placental inflammation of any kind was present in 26.2% of those who died versus 16.6% of those who lived (p = 0.0002). Chorioamnionitis was present in 25.8% of those who died versus 16.3% of those who lived (p = 0.0002) and funisitis was present in 4.1% of those who died versus 1.5% of those who lived, (p = 0.005). Across all three sites, in the placentas of the 201 term controls, 18.9% had any inflammation, 16.9% had chorioamnionitis, 5.5% had funisitis, 0.5% had intervillitis and none had villitis. Overall, for stillbirths, any inflammation was observed in 30.2%, chorioamnionitis in 26.9%, funisitis in 5.7%, intervillitis in 6.0% and villitis in 2.2%. For the neonatal deaths, any inflammation was present in 24.9%, chorioamnionitis in 23.3%, funisitis in 8.1%, intervillitis in 1.9% and villitis in 0.5%. Compared with the placentas of term controls, in neonatal deaths, only chorioamnionitis was significantly increased (23.3% versus 16.9%, p = 0.05). Among stillbirths, the rates of any inflammation, chorioamnionitis, intervillitis and villitis were similar across the birthweight groups. However, funisitis was more common in the placentas of stillborn fetuses weighing 2500 g or more (13.8%) compared with 1.0% for those weighing less than 1000 g and 4.8% for stillborn fetuses weighing 1000-2499 g. In the PCR studies, Ureaplasma spp. were by far the most common pathogens found and generally were more commonly found in association with inflammatory lesions. CONCLUSIONS Chorioamnionitis was the most common type of placental inflammatory lesion regardless of whether the placentas evaluated were from term controls, stillbirths or neonatal deaths. For stillbirths, inflammation in each inflammation category was more common than in the term controls and significantly more so for any inflammation, chorioamnionitis, intervillitis and villitis. For neonatal deaths, compared with the placentas of term controls, all inflammation categories were more common, but only significantly so for chorioamnionitis. Ureaplasma spp. were the most common organisms found in the placentas and were significantly associated with inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kay Hwang
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sheetal Harakuni
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Manjunath S Somannavar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Vardendra Kulkarni
- Bapuji Educational Association's J.J.M. Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India
| | - Gowder Guruprasad
- Bapuji Educational Association's J.J.M. Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India
| | - Shivaprasad S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Jean Kim
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Robert L Goldenberg
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hochler H, Lipschuetz M, Suissa-Cohen Y, Weiss A, Sela HY, Yagel S, Rosenbloom JI, Grisaru-Granovsky S, Rottenstreich M. The Impact of Advanced Maternal Age on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Retrospective Multicenter Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5696. [PMID: 37685763 PMCID: PMC10488955 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12175696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this multicenter retrospective cohort study was to examine the impact of maternal age on perinatal outcomes in multiparas, stratified according to maternal age in one- and two-year increments. The analysis involved 302,484 multiparas who delivered between the years 2003 and 2021 in four university-affiliated obstetrics departments. Maternal age was considered both as a continuous variable and in two-year intervals, as compared with a comparison group of parturients aged 25-30 years. The study focused on cesarean delivery and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission as primary outcomes. The findings revealed that cesarean delivery rates increased as maternal age advanced, with rates ranging from 6.7% among 25-30 year olds, rising continuously from 13.5% to 19.9% between the age strata of 31 and 42, to exceeding 20% among those aged ≥ 43 years (p < 0.01 for each stratum when compared to 25-30 year old group). Similarly, NICU admission rates rose from 2.7% in the comparison group to 6% in parturients aged 45-46 years (p < 0.01 for each stratum when compared to 25-30 year old group). The study highlights the association between incrementally advanced maternal age and increased rates of maternal and neonatal complications, necessitating global awareness of these implications for family planning decisions and maternal care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hila Hochler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Mount-Scopus, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9765422, Israel
| | - Michal Lipschuetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Mount-Scopus, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9765422, Israel
- Henrietta Szold School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Hadassah and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yael Suissa-Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Mount-Scopus, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9765422, Israel
| | - Ari Weiss
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem 91031, Israel (S.G.-G.); (M.R.)
| | - Hen Y. Sela
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem 91031, Israel (S.G.-G.); (M.R.)
| | - Simcha Yagel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Mount-Scopus, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9765422, Israel
| | - Joshua I. Rosenbloom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Ein-Kerem, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91121, Israel
| | - Sorina Grisaru-Granovsky
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem 91031, Israel (S.G.-G.); (M.R.)
| | - Misgav Rottenstreich
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem 91031, Israel (S.G.-G.); (M.R.)
- Department of Nursing, Jerusalem College of Technology, Jerusalem 9548301, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chang J, Zhang Y, Boulet SL, Crawford SB, Copeland GE, Bernson D, Kirby RS, Kissin DM, Barfield WD. Assisted Reproductive Technology and Perinatal Mortality: Selected States (2006-2011). Am J Perinatol 2023; 40:953-959. [PMID: 34282572 PMCID: PMC11057010 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1732451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare trends and characteristics of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and non-ART perinatal deaths and to evaluate the association of perinatal mortality and method of conception (ART vs. non-ART) among ART and non-ART deliveries in Florida, Massachusetts, and Michigan from 2006 to 2011. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study using linked ART surveillance and vital records data from Florida, Massachusetts, and Michigan. RESULTS During 2006 to 2011, a total of 570 ART-conceived perinatal deaths and 25,158 non-ART conceived perinatal deaths were identified from the participating states. Overall, ART perinatal mortality rates were lower than non-ART perinatal mortality rates for both singletons (7.0/1,000 births vs. 10.2/1,000 births) and multiples (22.8/1,000 births vs. 41.2/1,000 births). At <28 weeks of gestation, the risk of perinatal death among ART singletons was significantly lower than non-ART singletons (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26-0.85). Similar results were observed among multiples at <28 weeks of gestation (aRR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.45-0.89). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that ART use is associated with a decreased risk of perinatal deaths prior to 28 weeks of gestation, which may be explained by earlier detection and management of fetal and maternal conditions among ART-conceived pregnancies. These findings provide valuable information for health care providers, including infertility specialists, obstetricians, and pediatricians when counseling ART users on risk of treatment. KEY POINTS · ART use is associated with a decreased risk of perinatal deaths prior to 28 weeks of gestation.. · ART perinatal mortality rates were lower than that for non-ART perinatal mortality.. · This study used linked data to examine associations between use of ART and perinatal deaths..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeani Chang
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yujia Zhang
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sheree L. Boulet
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sara B. Crawford
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Dana Bernson
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Russell S. Kirby
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Dmitry M. Kissin
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Wanda D. Barfield
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hromadnikova I, Kotlabova K, Krofta L. First-Trimester Screening for Miscarriage or Stillbirth-Prediction Model Based on MicroRNA Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10137. [PMID: 37373283 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the potential of cardiovascular-disease-associated microRNAs to predict in the early stages of gestation (from 10 to 13 gestational weeks) the occurrence of a miscarriage or stillbirth. The gene expressions of 29 microRNAs were studied retrospectively in peripheral venous blood samples derived from singleton Caucasian pregnancies diagnosed with miscarriage (n = 77 cases; early onset, n = 43 cases; late onset, n = 34 cases) or stillbirth (n = 24 cases; early onset, n = 13 cases; late onset, n = 8 cases; term onset, n = 3 cases) and 80 selected gestational-age-matched controls (normal term pregnancies) using real-time RT-PCR. Altered expressions of nine microRNAs (upregulation of miR-1-3p, miR-16-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-146a-5p, and miR-181a-5p and downregulation of miR-130b-3p, miR-342-3p, and miR-574-3p) were observed in pregnancies with the occurrence of a miscarriage or stillbirth. The screening based on the combination of these nine microRNA biomarkers revealed 99.01% cases at a 10.0% false positive rate (FPR). The predictive model for miscarriage only was based on the altered gene expressions of eight microRNA biomarkers (upregulation of miR-1-3p, miR-16-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-146a-5p, and miR-181a-5p and downregulation of miR-130b-3p and miR-195-5p). It was able to identify 80.52% cases at a 10.0% FPR. Highly efficient early identification of later occurrences of stillbirth was achieved via the combination of eleven microRNA biomarkers (upregulation of miR-1-3p, miR-16-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-146a-5p, and miR-181a-5p and downregulation of miR-130b-3p, miR-145-5p, miR-210-3p, miR-342-3p, and miR-574-3p) or, alternatively, by the combination of just two upregulated microRNA biomarkers (miR-1-3p and miR-181a-5p). The predictive power achieved 95.83% cases at a 10.0% FPR and, alternatively, 91.67% cases at a 10.0% FPR. The models based on the combination of selected cardiovascular-disease-associated microRNAs had very high predictive potential for miscarriages or stillbirths and may be implemented in routine first-trimester screening programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Hromadnikova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Cell Pathology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 14700 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Kotlabova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Cell Pathology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 14700 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ladislav Krofta
- Institute for the Care of the Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 14700 Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dalton SE, Workalemahu T, Allshouse AA, Page JM, Reddy UM, Saade GR, Pinar H, Goldenberg RL, Dudley DJ, Silver RM. Copy number variants and fetal growth in stillbirths. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 228:579.e1-579.e11. [PMID: 36356697 PMCID: PMC10149588 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.11.1274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal growth abnormalities are associated with a higher incidence of stillbirth, with small and large for gestational age infants incurring a 3 to 4- and 2 to 3-fold increased risk, respectively. Although clinical risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and placental insufficiency have been associated with fetal growth aberrations and stillbirth, the role of underlying genetic etiologies remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the relationship between abnormal copy number variants and fetal growth abnormalities in stillbirths using chromosomal microarray. STUDY DESIGN A secondary analysis utilizing a cohort study design of stillbirths from the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network was performed. Exposure was defined as abnormal copy number variants including aneuploidies, pathogenic copy number variants, and variants of unknown clinical significance. The outcomes were small for gestational age and large for gestational age stillbirths, defined as a birthweight <10th percentile and greater than the 90th percentile for gestational age, respectively. RESULTS Among 393 stillbirths with chromosomal microarray and birthweight data, 16% had abnormal copy number variants. The small for gestational age outcome was more common among those with abnormal copy number variants than those with a normal microarray (29.5% vs 16.5%; P=.038). This finding was consistent after adjusting for clinically important variables. In the final model, only abnormal copy number variants and maternal age remained significantly associated with small for gestational age stillbirths, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.22 (95% confidence interval, 1.12-4.18). Although large for gestational age stillbirths were more likely to have an abnormal microarray: 6.2% vs 3.3% (P=.275), with an odds ratio of 2.35 (95% confidence interval, 0.70-7.90), this finding did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION Genetic abnormalities are more common in the setting of small for gestational age stillborn fetuses. Abnormal copy number variants not detectable by traditional karyotype make up approximately 50% of the genetic abnormalities in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Dalton
- University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | | | | | | | - George R Saade
- University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX
| | - Halit Pinar
- Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI
| | | | | | - Robert M Silver
- University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT; Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Szyhta CC, Silva ZPD, Alencar GP, Almeida MFD. Risk factors for perinatal death in high-risk pregnant women at a tertiary hospital in Curitiba-PR, Brazil: a case-control study. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2023; 28:1043-1058. [PMID: 37042887 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232023284.16042022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A case-control study was carried out to estimate risk factors for perinatal mortality in a referral hospital for high-risk pregnancies in Curitiba-PR. Sociodemographic, maternal, pregnancy and concept characteristics data were obtained from the hospital records of 316 cases and 316 controls from 2013 to 2017. A hierarchical multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, remaining in the final model variables with p < 0.05. The results show an increased risk of perinatal death in mothers with blood type B (OR = 2.82; 95%CI: 1.07-7.43), who did not undergo prenatal care (OR = 30.78; 95%CI: 4.23-224.29), fetuses with congenital malformations (OR = 63.90; 95%CI: 27.32-149.48), born under 28 (OR = 24.21; 95%CI: 1, 10-531.81) and between 28-31 weeks of gestation (OR = 6.03; 95%CI: 1.34-27.17) and birth weight below 1,000g (OR = 51.94; 95%CI: 4.31-626.46), between 1,000-1,499g (OR = 11.17; 95%CI: 2.29-54.41) and between 1,500-2,499g (OR = 2.75; 25-6.06). Concepts of pregnancies with premature outcome, low birth weight and the presence of congenital malformations are the main risk factors for perinatal death. On the other hand, adequate prenatal care is an important protective factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Caroline Szyhta
- Serviço de Epidemiologia, Complexo do Hospital de Clínicas da UFPR, Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares. R. Gal. Carneiro 181, Alto da Glória. 80060-900 Curitiba PR Brasil.
| | - Zilda Pereira da Silva
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo SP Brasil
| | - Gizelton Pereira Alencar
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo SP Brasil
| | - Marcia Furquim de Almeida
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo SP Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thompson RA, Thompson JMD, Wilson J, Cronin RS, Mitchell EA, Raynes-Greenow CH, Li M, Stacey T, Heazell AEP, O'Brien LM, McCowan LME, Anderson NH. Risk factors for late preterm and term stillbirth: A secondary analysis of an individual participant data meta-analysis. BJOG 2023. [PMID: 36852504 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identify independent and novel risk factors for late-preterm (28-36 weeks) and term (≥37 weeks) stillbirth and explore development of a risk-prediction model. DESIGN Secondary analysis of an Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta-analysis investigating modifiable stillbirth risk factors. SETTING An IPD database from five case-control studies in New Zealand, Australia, the UK and an international online study. POPULATION Women with late-stillbirth (cases, n = 851), and ongoing singleton pregnancies from 28 weeks' gestation (controls, n = 2257). METHODS Established and novel risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth underwent univariable and multivariable logistic regression modelling with multiple sensitivity analyses. Variables included maternal age, body mass index (BMI), parity, mental health, cigarette smoking, second-hand smoking, antenatal-care utilisation, and detailed fetal movement and sleep variables. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Independent risk factors with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for late-preterm and term stillbirth. RESULTS After model building, 575 late-stillbirth cases and 1541 controls from three contributing case-control studies were included. Risk factor estimates from separate multivariable models of late-preterm and term stillbirth were compared. As these were similar, the final model combined all late-stillbirths. The single multivariable model confirmed established demographic risk factors, but additionally showed that fetal movement changes had both increased (decreased frequency) and reduced (hiccoughs, increasing strength, frequency or vigorous fetal movements) aOR of stillbirth. Poor antenatal-care utilisation increased risk while more-than-adequate care was protective. The area-under-the-curve was 0.84 (95% CI 0.82-0.86). CONCLUSIONS Similarities in risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth suggest the same approach for risk-assessment can be applied. Detailed fetal movement assessment and inclusion of antenatal-care utilisation could be valuable in late-stillbirth risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R A Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J M D Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - R S Cronin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Women's Health Division, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - E A Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - C H Raynes-Greenow
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Women's Health Division, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T Stacey
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A E P Heazell
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - L M O'Brien
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - L M E McCowan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - N H Anderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wu L, Li N, Liu Y. Association Between Maternal Factors and Risk of Congenital Heart Disease in Offspring: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Matern Child Health J 2023; 27:29-48. [PMID: 36344649 PMCID: PMC9867685 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-022-03538-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to summarize the evidence describing the relationship between maternal factors during gestation and risk of congenital heart disease (CHD) in offspring. METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for potentially relevant reports from inception to May 2021. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated by the random-effects model were used to evaluate the association between maternal factors and CHD risk. RESULTS There was a significant association between CHD risk and obesity in pregnancy (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.22-1.37; P < 0.001), smoking in pregnancy (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.07-1.25; P < 0.001), maternal diabetes (OR 2.65, 95% CI 2.20-3.19; P < 0.001), and exposure of pregnant women to organic solvents (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.23-2.70; P = 0.003). No correlations were revealed between CHD susceptibility and advanced maternal age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.96-1.12; P = 0.328), underweight (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.96-1.08; P = 0.519), alcohol intake in pregnancy (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.95-1.22; P = 0.251), coffee intake (OR 1.18, 95% CI 0.97-1.44; P = 0.105), and exposure to irradiation (OR 1.80, 95% CI 0.85-3.80; P = 0.125). DISCUSSION Maternal factors including maternal obesity, smoking in pregnancy, maternal diabetes and exposure to organic solvents might predispose the offspring to CHD risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Trend and risk factors of fatal pregnancy termination: A long-term nationwide population-based cross-section survey in Bangladesh. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0263467. [PMID: 36706092 PMCID: PMC9882646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant women often experience the fatal outcome of their pregnancy both in developed and impoverished countries. Due to strong health systems and services, factual and historical data are available from developed countries. However, the prevalence trend and risk factors of a fatal termination of pregnancy in developing countries like Bangladesh are still lacking. OBJECTIVE The objective of the current study was to determine the 20 years trend of prevalence and risk factors of fatal pregnancy termination from 1997 to 2018 in Bangladesh. METHOD This study utilised the publicly available seven consecutive cross-data on Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys data since 1997 following identical methods among women of reproductive age. Respondent was asked if they had had a fatal pregnancy termination ever. A Generalised Linear model with a log-Poisson link was used to estimate the relative risk of different predictors for four survey time points (1998, 2004, 2011, 2018). RESULTS The proportions of fatal pregnancy termination in urban and rural areas were 24% vs. 19% and 24% vs. 22% in 1997 and 2018, respectively. In multivariable analysis, maternal age 30 years and above and obesity were strongly associated in all survey time points. The richest wealth index had a weak association in 1997 but was strongly associated in 2011 and 2018. A significant modest association with secondary complete education level was only observed in 2018. CONCLUSION The overall proportions of fatal pregnancy termination in Bangladesh remain nearly static; however, its risk factors differed across different survey time points.
Collapse
|
22
|
Lende MN, Morris BA, Lynch TA. Implementing American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Outpatient Antepartum Testing Recommendations: Can Your Clinic Handle It? Am J Perinatol 2022; 40:711-717. [PMID: 36470297 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1759706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to determine the difference in the number of pregnancies that would qualify for outpatient fetal testing between our current academic practice and that of the 2021 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) antepartum recommendations. STUDY DESIGN We performed a retrospective study of all pregnancies that delivered and received prenatal care at our institution between January 1, 2019, and May 31, 2021. The timing and amount of outpatient antepartum testing was determined for each patient. Our current antepartum testing guidelines (clinic protocol) were compared with the 2021 ACOG recommendations (ACOG protocol). Statistical analysis was performed with descriptive statistics and z scoring to compare the total amount of antepartum testing utilized with each protocol. RESULTS A total of 1,335 pregnancies were included in the study. With the ACOG protocol, an additional 310 (23.2%) of pregnancies would qualify for antepartum testing (57.8% with ACOG protocol vs. 34.6% with clinic protocol). Most of the increased testing was due to maternal age with additional risk factors, hypertensive disorders, diabetes, prepregnancy body mass index ≥ 35, and complex fetal anomalies or aneuploidies. Overall, the ACOG protocol would require an additional 570 antepartum tests (z-score = 4.04, p = 0.000005) over the study period, which is equivalent to 19 additional tests per month and 5 per week. Only nine stillbirths occurred during this time, of which two would have had antepartum testing with both protocols, one would have only had testing per ACOG, and two would have had testing individualized per ACOG. CONCLUSION More pregnancies would require outpatient antenatal testing with adoption of the ACOG protocol. A 23% increase in testing would equate to five additional antepartum tests per week. Although this study cannot assess the clinical impact of additional testing, minimal scheduling resources are needed to accommodate this increase. KEY POINTS · Most pregnancies have risk factors for stillbirth.. · Most pregnancies qualify for fetal testing per ACOG.. · More resources are needed for this increased testing..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle N Lende
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York
| | - Bruce A Morris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York
| | - Tara A Lynch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Health inequities start early in life, even before birth: Why race-specific fetal and neonatal growth references disadvantage Black infants. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151662. [PMID: 36180263 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians and researchers use published standards to assess and classify the size and growth of the fetus and newborn infant. Fetal growth is slower on average in Black fetuses as compared with White fetuses, and existing standards differ in whether they are race-specific or not. Here, we apply a health equity lens to the topic of fetal and newborn growth assessment by critically appraising two widely available growth standards. We conclude that using race-based standards is not well-justified and could perpetuate or even worsen inequities in perinatal health outcomes. We therefore recommend that neonatal and perinatal providers remove race from the assessment of fetal and newborn size.
Collapse
|
24
|
Winterstein AG, Thai TN, Nduaguba S, Smolinski NE, Wang X, Sahin L, Krefting I, Gelperin K, Bird ST, Rasmussen SA. Risk of fetal or neonatal death or neonatal intensive care unit admission associated with gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging exposure during pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 228:465.e1-465.e11. [PMID: 36241080 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concerns have been raised about prenatal exposure to magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium-based contrast agents because of nonclinical findings of gadolinium retention in fetal tissue and 1 population-based study reporting an association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the association between prenatal magnetic resonance imaging exposure with and without gadolinium-based contrast agents and fetal and neonatal death and neonatal intensive care unit admission. STUDY DESIGN We constructed a retrospective cohort of >11 million Medicaid-covered pregnancies between 1999 and 2014 to evaluate the association between prenatal magnetic resonance imaging exposure with and without gadolinium-based contrast agents and fetal and neonatal death (primary endpoint) and neonatal intensive care unit admissions (secondary endpoint). Medicaid claims data were linked to medical records, Florida birth and fetal death records, and the National Death Index to validate the outcomes and gestational age estimates. Pregnancies with multiples, concurrent cancer, teratogenic drug exposure, magnetic resonance imaging focused on fetal or pelvic evaluation, undetermined gadolinium-based contrast agent use, or those preceded by or contemporaneous with congenital anomaly diagnoses were excluded. We adjusted for potential confounders with standardized mortality ratio weighting using propensity scores. RESULTS Among 5991 qualifying pregnancies, we found 11 fetal or neonatal deaths in the gadolinium-based contrast agent magnetic resonance imaging group (1.4%) and 73 in the non-gadolinium-based contrast agent magnetic resonance imaging group (1.4%) with an adjusted relative risk of 0.73 (95% confidence interval, 0.34-1.55); the neonatal intensive care unit admission adjusted relative risk was 1.03 (0.76-1.39). Sensitivity analyses investigating the timing of magnetic resonance imaging or repeat magnetic resonance imaging exposure during pregnancy and simulating the impact of exposure misclassification corroborated these results. CONCLUSION This study addressed the safety concerns related to prenatal exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents used in magnetic resonance imaging and the risk thereof on fetal and neonatal death or the need for neonatal intensive care unit admission. Although the results on fatal or severe acute effects are reassuring, the impact on subacute outcomes was not evaluated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Almut G Winterstein
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Center for Drug Evaluation and Safety (CoDES), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Department of Epidemiology, College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL.
| | - Thuy N Thai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Center for Drug Evaluation and Safety (CoDES), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Faculty of Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Sabina Nduaguba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Center for Drug Evaluation and Safety (CoDES), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Nicole E Smolinski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Center for Drug Evaluation and Safety (CoDES), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Leyla Sahin
- Division of Pediatrics and Maternal Health, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD
| | - Ira Krefting
- Division of Imaging and Radiation Medicine, Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD
| | - Kate Gelperin
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, CDER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD
| | - Steven T Bird
- Division of Epidemiology, Office of Surveillance and Epidemiology, CDER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD
| | - Sonja A Rasmussen
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Safety (CoDES), University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Department of Epidemiology, College of Medicine and College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Departments of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Amani A, Nansseu JR, Ndeffo GF, Njoh AA, Cheuyem FZL, Libite PR, Ateba AA, Ngo Bama S, Baye ML, Nguefack-Tsague G, Enow Mbu R. Stillbirths in Cameroon: an analysis of the 1998-2011 demographic and health surveys. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:736. [PMID: 36183095 PMCID: PMC9526320 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04993-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Many countries, including Cameroon, have found it challenging to estimate stillbirths, as there are limited available reports accurately. This analysis aimed to assess stillbirth rates and identify risk factors for stillbirth in Cameroon using successive Demographic and Health Survey data. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data collected during the Demographic and Health Surveys of 1998, 2004, and 2011. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0. Logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with stillbirth through odds ratios (ORs) at 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results were considered statistically significant at p-value less than 0.05. Results The crude stillbirth rate was 21.4 per 1,000 births in 2004 and 24 per 1,000 births in 2011, with respective standard errors of 1.8 and 1.3. The stillbirth rate increased with the mother's age (p < 0.001). The stillbirth rate reduction was prolonged between 1998 and 2011, with an annual reduction rate of 1.6%. The study observed that residing in rural areas, low socioeconomic status, and low level of education were risk factors associated with stillbirths. Conclusion Cameroon's stillbirth rate remains very high, with a slow reduction rate over the last 20 years. Although some efforts are ongoing, there is still a long way forward to bend the curve for stillbirths in Cameroon; supplementary strategies must be designed and implemented, especially among rural women, the poor, and the less educated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adidja Amani
- Department of Family Health, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon. .,Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon.
| | - Jobert Richie Nansseu
- Department of Disease, Epidemics and Pandemics Control, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon.,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Guy Ferdinand Ndeffo
- Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development, National Institute of Statistics, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Andreas Ateke Njoh
- Department of Family Health, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Fabrice Zobel Lekeumo Cheuyem
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Paul Roger Libite
- Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development, National Institute of Statistics, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Athanase A Ateba
- Department of Disease, Epidemics and Pandemics Control, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Georges Nguefack-Tsague
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Robinson Enow Mbu
- Department of Family Health, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon.,, Yaounde, Cameroon
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Mohammed-Ahmed A, Abdullahi A, Beshir F. Magnitude and associated factors of stillbirth among women who gave birth at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, eastern Ethiopia. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:49. [PMID: 35974716 PMCID: PMC9340818 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/150354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION According to WHO, there are nearly 2 million stillbirths every year, one every 16 seconds. The objective of our study was to assess the frequency and associated factors of stillbirth among women who gave birth at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital, Harar, eastern Ethiopia, 2021. METHODS An institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study of medical records was conducted among 336 women who gave birth from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020. Maternal medical records were selected by systematic random sampling technique and a pre-tested checklist was used to collect data. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS-version 20. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors associated with stillbirth. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals are reported. RESULTS The frequency of stillbirth was 12.5% (95% CI: 8.1–14.6). Preterm delivery (AOR=8.10; 95% CI: 3.01–21.79), non-booking for antenatal care (AOR=2.8; 95% CI: 1.14–6.88), antepartum hemorrhage (AOR=3.16; 95% CI: 1.10–9.04), obstructed labor (AOR=2.56; 95% CI: 1.85–7.93) and eclampsia (AOR=2.84; 95% CI: 1.45–6.98) were found to be statistically significantly associated with stillbirth. CONCLUSIONS The frequency of stillbirth in this study was high. Prematurity, non-booking for antenatal care, ante-partum hemorrhage, obstructed labor and eclampsia were independently associated for stillbirth. Therefore, we recommend that the health professionals should better work on prevention of preterm birth, active emergency obstetrical and neonatal care by boosting focused antenatal care follow-up with health education on danger signs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aisha Abdullahi
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Harar Health Sciences College, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Furo Beshir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Harar Health Sciences College, Harar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ter Kuile M, Erwich JJHM, Heazell AEP. Stillbirths preceded by reduced fetal movements are more frequently associated with placental insufficiency: a retrospective cohort study. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:668-677. [PMID: 34261204 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2021-0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Maternal report of reduced fetal movements (RFM) is a means of identifying fetal compromise in pregnancy. In live births RFM is associated with altered placental structure and function. Here, we explored associations between RFM, pregnancy characteristics, and the presence of placental abnormalities and fetal growth restriction (FGR) in cases of stillbirth. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was carried out in a single UK tertiary maternity unit. Cases were divided into three groups: 109 women reporting RFM, 33 women with absent fetal movements (AFM) and 159 who did not report RFM before the diagnosis of stillbirth. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine associations between RFM/AFM, pregnancy characteristics, placental insufficiency and the classification of the stillbirth. RESULTS AFM or RFM were reported prior to diagnosis of stillbirth in 142 (47.2%) of cases. Pregnancies with RFM prior to diagnosis of stillbirth were independently associated with placental insufficiency (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.79, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.84, 5.04) and were less frequently associated with maternal proteinuria (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.07, 0.62) and previous pregnancy loss <24 weeks (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.07, 0.70). When combined, AFM and RFM were less frequently reported in twin pregnancies ending in stillbirth and in intrapartum stillbirths. CONCLUSIONS The association between RFM and placental insufficiency was confirmed in cases of stillbirth. This provides further evidence that RFM is a symptom of placental insufficiency. Therefore, investigation after RFM should aim to identify placental dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Ter Kuile
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.,Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Jaap H M Erwich
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Groningen, the Netherlands.,St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Schabel MC, Roberts VHJ, Gibbins KJ, Rincon M, Gaffney JE, Streblow AD, Wright AM, Lo JO, Park B, Kroenke CD, Szczotka K, Blue NR, Page JM, Harvey K, Varner MW, Silver RM, Frias AE. Quantitative longitudinal T2* mapping for assessing placental function and association with adverse pregnancy outcomes across gestation. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270360. [PMID: 35853003 PMCID: PMC9295947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing methods for evaluating in vivo placental function fail to reliably detect pregnancies at-risk for adverse outcomes prior to maternal and/or fetal morbidity. Here we report the results of a prospective dual-site longitudinal clinical study of quantitative placental T2* as measured by blood oxygen-level dependent magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD-MRI). The objectives of this study were: 1) to quantify placental T2* at multiple time points across gestation, and its consistency across sites, and 2) to investigate the association between placental T2* and adverse outcomes. 797 successful imaging studies, at up to three time points between 11 and 38 weeks of gestation, were completed in 316 pregnancies. Outcomes were stratified into three groups: (UN) uncomplicated/normal pregnancy, (PA) primary adverse pregnancy, which included hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, birthweight <5th percentile, and/or stillbirth or fetal death, and (SA) secondary abnormal pregnancy, which included abnormal prenatal conditions not included in the PA group such as spontaneous preterm birth or fetal anomalies. Of the 316 pregnancies, 198 (62.6%) were UN, 70 (22.2%) PA, and 48 (15.2%) SA outcomes. We found that the evolution of placental T2* across gestation was well described by a sigmoid model, with T2* decreasing continuously from a high plateau level early in gestation, through an inflection point around 30 weeks, and finally approaching a second, lower plateau in late gestation. Model regression revealed significantly lower T2* in the PA group than in UN pregnancies starting at 15 weeks and continuing through 33 weeks. T2* percentiles were computed for individual scans relative to UN group regression, and z-scores and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves calculated for association of T2* with pregnancy outcome. Overall, differences between UN and PA groups were statistically significant across gestation, with large effect sizes in mid- and late- pregnancy. The area under the curve (AUC) for placental T2* percentile and PA pregnancy outcome was 0.71, with the strongest predictive power (AUC of 0.76) at the mid-gestation time period (20–30 weeks). Our data demonstrate that placental T2* measurements are strongly associated with pregnancy outcomes often attributed to placental insufficiency. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02749851.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias C. Schabel
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Victoria H. J. Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Karen J. Gibbins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Monica Rincon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Jessica E. Gaffney
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Aaron D. Streblow
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Adam M. Wright
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Jamie O. Lo
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Byung Park
- Biostatistics Shared Resource, Knight Cancer Institute, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Christopher D. Kroenke
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), Portland, Oregon, United States of America
- Division of Neuroscience, ONPRC, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Szczotka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Nathan R. Blue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jessica M. Page
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Kathy Harvey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Michael W. Varner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Robert M. Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Antonio E. Frias
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OHSU, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Duhig K, Myers J. Detecting fetal growth restriction with customised assessment: Is the jury still out? PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1004028. [PMID: 35727756 PMCID: PMC9212128 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In this Perspective, Kate Duhig and Jenny Myers discuss strategies to improve the detection of abnormal fetal growth trajectories in the antenatal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kate Duhig
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Myers
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Xu X, Zhou Y, Fu B, Wei H. Uterine NK cell functions at maternal-fetal interface. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:327-338. [PMID: 35551350 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, maternal decidual tissue interacts with fetal trophoblasts. They constitute the maternal-fetal interface responsible for supplying nutrition to the fetus. Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are the most abundant immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface during early pregnancy and play critical roles throughout pregnancy. This review provides current knowledge about the functions of uNK cells. uNK cells have been shown to facilitate remodeling of the spiral artery, control the invasion of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) cells, contribute to the induction and maintenance of immune tolerance, protect against pathogen infection, and promote fetal development. Pregnancy-trained memory of uNK cells improves subsequent pregnancy outcomes. In addition, this review describes the distinct functions of three uNK cell subsets: CD27-CD11b-, CD27+ and CD27-CD11b+ uNK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Xu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Institute of Gerontology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mtshali NZ, Burgess SM, Maswime S, Wright CA. Placental Heterogeneity in Stillbirth and Its Relations to Maternal Exogenous Characteristics. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:285-291. [PMID: 34962224 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211063118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Heterogeneous patterns of placental lesions in stillbirth signal important variations in placental histopathology that may be diagnostic in stillbirth. We explore placental heterogeneity and its associations with maternal characteristics (including HIV) using latent class analysis. METHODS Placental and maternal data and slides were assessed retrospectively for 122 confirmed stillbirths (gestational age ≥ 28 weeks) delivered at a major South African academic hospital between January 2016-July 2018. The slides were reviewed by 2 pathologists and classified using the Amsterdam Consensus Classification System. Latent class analyses were conducted on raw data. RESULTS We identify 5 latent placental classes in stillbirth based on similarity in patterns of observed diagnostic criteria and their associations with maternal characteristics. Three classes bear similarity to generalized patterns of placental injury identified previously. Our study shows that intrauterine infection was the commonest histopathological condition associated with stillbirth in our setting. Novel findings include 2 classes, distinguished by high placental RPH and maternal HIV, respectively, and the non-emergence of a class distinguished by VUE. CONCLUSION The size and content of the latent classes and their similarity/dissimilarity to the more generalized patterns identified previously suggest potential new avenues for investigation and theory development concerning the role of the placenta in stillbirth and the impact of HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nompumelelo Z Mtshali
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,70685National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Steven M Burgess
- Tshwane School for Business and Society, 585245Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Salome Maswime
- Global Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, 63726University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Colleen A Wright
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,202501Lancet Laboratories, Richmond, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Stanek J, Drach A. Placental
CD34
immunohistochemistry in fetal vascular malperfusion in stillbirth. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:719-728. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.15169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy Stanek
- Division of Pathology Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Alex Drach
- Division of Pathology Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Cincinnati Ohio USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Grytten J, Skau I, Eskild A. Does the use of Doppler ultrasound reduce fetal mortality? A population study of all deliveries in Norway 1990-2014. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 50:2038-2047. [PMID: 34999866 PMCID: PMC8743111 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab098] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to examine the effect that the introduction of Doppler ultrasound in obstetric care has had on fetal death in Norway. One mechanism by which Doppler ultrasound may reduce fetal death may be through the increased use of Caesarean delivery. Therefore, we also examined the effect that the use of Doppler ultrasound has had on the use of Caesarean delivery. METHODS The Medical Birth Registry of Norway provided detailed medical information for ∼1.2 million deliveries from 1990 to 2014. Information about the year of introduction of Doppler ultrasound was collected directly from the maternity units, using a questionnaire. The data were analysed using a hospital fixed-effects regression model with fetal death as the outcome measure. The key independent variable was the introduction of Doppler ultrasound at each maternity ward. Hospital-specific trends and risk factors of the mother for fetal death were included as covariates. RESULTS For pre-term deliveries, the introduction of Doppler ultrasound contributed to a reduction in fetal death of ∼30% and to an increase in planned Caesarean section of ∼15%. There were no effects for emergency Caesarean sections or inductions pre-term. The introduction of Doppler ultrasound had no effect on fetal death or Caesarean section for term deliveries. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of Doppler ultrasound during the 1990s and 2000s made a significant contribution to the decline in the number of pre-term fetal deaths in Norway. Increased use of Caesarean section may have contributed to this reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jostein Grytten
- Department of Community Dentistry, University of Oslo, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Irene Skau
- Department of Community Dentistry, University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Eskild
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Nijkamp JW, Ravelli ACJ, Groen H, Erwich JJHM, Mol BWJ. Stillbirth and neonatal mortality in a subsequent pregnancy following stillbirth: a population-based cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:11. [PMID: 34983439 PMCID: PMC8725424 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04355-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A history of stillbirth is a risk factor for recurrent fetal death in a subsequent pregnancy. Reported risks of recurrent fetal death are often not stratified by gestational age. In subsequent pregnancies increased rates of medical interventions are reported without evidence of perinatal benefit. The aim of this study was to estimate gestational-age specific risks of recurrent stillbirth and to evaluate the effect of obstetrical management on perinatal outcome after previous stillbirth. METHODS A retrospective cohort study in the Netherlands was designed that included 252.827 women with two consecutive singleton pregnancies (1st and 2nd delivery) between 1999 and 2007. Data was obtained from the national Perinatal Registry and analyzed for pregnancy outcomes. Fetal deaths associated with a congenital anomaly were excluded. The primary outcome was the occurrence of stillbirth in the second pregnancy stratified by gestational age. Secondary outcome was the influence of obstetrical management on perinatal outcome in a subsequent pregnancy. RESULTS Of 252.827 first pregnancies, 2.058 pregnancies ended in a stillbirth (8.1 per 1000). After adjusting for confounding factors, women with a prior stillbirth have a two-fold higher risk of recurrence (aOR 1.96, 95% CI 1.07-3.60) compared to women with a live birth in their first pregnancy. The highest risk of recurrence occurred in the group of women with a stillbirth in early gestation between 22 and 28 weeks of gestation (a OR 2.25, 95% CI 0.62-8.15), while after 32 weeks the risk decreased. The risk of neonatal death after 34 weeks of gestation is higher in women with a history of stillbirth (aOR 6.48, 95% CI 2.61-16.1) and the risk of neonatal death increases with expectant obstetric management (aOR 10.0, 95% CI 2.43-41.1). CONCLUSIONS A history of stillbirth remains an important risk for recurrent stillbirth especially in early gestation (22-28 weeks). Women with a previous stillbirth should be counselled for elective induction in the subsequent pregnancy at 37-38 weeks of gestation to decrease the risk of perinatal death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janna W Nijkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Anita C J Ravelli
- Department of Medical Informatics, Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Henk Groen
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jan Jaap H M Erwich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Center, Clayton, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Bhat S, Birdus N, Bhat SM. Ethnic variation in causes of stillbirth in high income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 158:270-277. [PMID: 34767262 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inequities in stillbirth rate according to ethnicity persist in high income nations. The objective of the present study is to investigate whether causes of stillbirth differ by ethnicity in high-income nations. METHODS The following databases were searched since their inception to 1 February 2021: Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Global Health. Cohort, cross-sectional, and retrospective studies were included. Causes of stillbirth were aligned to the International Classification of Disease 10 for Perinatal Mortality (ICD10-PM) and pooled estimates were derived by meta-analysis. RESULTS Fifteen reports from three countries (72 555 stillbirths) were included. Seven ethnic groups - "Caucasian" (n = 11 studies), "African" (n = 11 studies), "Hispanic" (n = 7 studies), "Indigenous Australian" (n = 4 studies), "Asian" (n = 2 studies), "South Asian" (n = 2 studies), and "American Indian" (n = 1 study) - were identified. There was an overall paucity of recent, high-quality data for many ethnicities. For those with the greatest amount of data - Caucasian, African, and Hispanic - no major differences in the causes of stillbirth were identified. CONCLUSION There is a paucity of high-quality information on causes of stillbirth for many ethnicities. Improving investigation and standardizing classification of stillbirths is needed to assess whether causes of stillbirth differ across more diverse ethnic groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saiuj Bhat
- Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nadya Birdus
- Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Canelón SP, Butts S, Boland MR. Evaluation of Stillbirth Among Pregnant People With Sickle Cell Trait. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2134274. [PMID: 34817585 PMCID: PMC8613600 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.34274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Relative to what is known about pregnancy complications and sickle cell disease (SCD), little is known about the risk of pregnancy complications among those with sickle cell trait (SCT). There is a lack of clinical research among sickle cell carriers largely due to low sample sizes and disparities in research funding. Objective To evaluate whether there is an association between SCT and a stillbirth outcome. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study included data on deliveries occurring between January 1, 2010, and August 15, 2017, at 4 quaternary academic medical centers within the Penn Medicine health system in Pennsylvania. The population included a total of 2482 deliveries from 1904 patients with SCT but not SCD, and 215 deliveries from 164 patients with SCD. Data were analyzed from May 3, 2019, to September 16, 2021. Exposures The primary exposure of interest was SCT, identified using clinical diagnosis codes recorded in the electronic health record. Main Outcomes and Measures A multivariate logistic regression model was constructed to assess the risk of stillbirth using the following risk factors: SCD, numbers of pain crises and blood transfusions before delivery, delivery episode (as a proxy for parity), prior cesarean delivery, multiple gestation, patient age, marital status, race and ethnicity, ABO blood type, Rhesus (Rh) factor, and year of delivery. Results This cohort study included 50 560 patients (63 334 deliveries), most of whom were aged 25 to 34 years (29 387 of 50 560 [58.1%]; mean [SD] age, 29.5 [6.1] years), were single at the time of delivery (28 186 [55.8%]), were Black or African American (23 777 [47.0%]), had ABO blood type O (22 879 [45.2%]), and were Rhesus factor positive (44 000 [87.0%]). From this general population, 2068 patients (4.1%) with a sickle cell gene variation were identified: 1904 patients (92.1%) with SCT (2482 deliveries) and 164 patients (7.9%) with SCD (215 deliveries). In the fully adjusted model, SCT was associated with an increased risk of stillbirth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 8.94; 95% CI, 1.05-75.79; P = .045) while adjusting for the risk factors of SCD (aOR, 26.40; 95% CI, 2.48-280.90; P = .007) and multiple gestation (aOR, 4.68; 95% CI, 3.48-6.29; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance The results of this large, retrospective cohort study indicate an increased risk of stillbirth among pregnant people with SCT. These findings underscore the need for additional risk assessment during pregnancy for sickle cell carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia P. Canelón
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Samantha Butts
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Health, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Mary Regina Boland
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Center for Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Arslan E, Allshouse AA, Page JM, Varner MW, Thorsten V, Parker C, Dudley DJ, Saade GR, Goldenberg RL, Stoll BJ, Hogue CJ, Bukowski R, Conway D, Pinar H, Reddy UM, Silver RM. Maternal serum fructosamine levels and stillbirth: a case-control study of the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network. BJOG 2021; 129:619-626. [PMID: 34529344 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between maternal fructosamine levels at the time of delivery and stillbirth. DESIGN Secondary analysis of a case-control study. SETTING Multicentre study of five geographic catchment areas in the USA. POPULATION All singleton stillbirths with known diabetes status and fructosamine measurement, and representative live birth controls. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fructosamine levels in stillbirths and live births among groups were adjusted for potential confounding factors, including diabetes. Optimal thresholds of fructosamine to discriminate stillbirth and live birth. RESULTS A total of 529 women with a stillbirth and 1499 women with a live birth were included in the analysis. Mean fructosamine levels were significantly higher in women with a stillbirth than in women with a live birth after adjustment (177 ± 3.05 versus 165 ± 2.89 μmol/L, P < 0.001). The difference in fructosamine levels between stillbirths and live births was greater among women with diabetes (194 ± 8.54 versus 162 ± 3.21 μmol/L), compared with women without diabetes (171 ± 2.50 versus 162 ± 2.56 μmol/L). The area under the curve (AUC) for fructosamine level and stillbirth was 0.634 (0.605-0.663) overall, 0.713 (0.624-0.802) with diabetes and 0.625 (0.595-0.656) with no diabetes. CONCLUSIONS Maternal fructosamine levels at the time of delivery were higher in women with stillbirth compared with women with live birth. Differences were substantial in women with diabetes, suggesting a potential benefit of glycaemic control in women with diabetes during pregnancy. The small differences noted in women without diabetes are not likely to justify routine screening in all cases of stillbirth. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Maternal serum fructosamine levels are higher in women with stillbirth than in women with live birth, especially in women with diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Arslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - A A Allshouse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - J M Page
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Intermountain Health Care, Murray, Utah, USA
| | - M W Varner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - V Thorsten
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - C Parker
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - D J Dudley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - G R Saade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - B J Stoll
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - C J Hogue
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - R Bukowski
- Department of Women's Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - D Conway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - H Pinar
- Division of Perinatal Pathology, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - U M Reddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - R M Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Indications for Outpatient Antenatal Fetal Surveillance: ACOG Committee Opinion, Number 828. Obstet Gynecol 2021; 137:e177-e197. [PMID: 34011892 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The purpose of this Committee Opinion is to offer guidance about indications for and timing and frequency of antenatal fetal surveillance in the outpatient setting. Antenatal fetal surveillance is performed to reduce the risk of stillbirth. However, because the pathway that results in increased risk of stillbirth for a given condition may not be known and antenatal fetal surveillance has not been shown to improve perinatal outcomes for all conditions associated with stillbirth, it is challenging to create a prescriptive list of all indications for which antenatal fetal surveillance should be considered. This Committee Opinion provides guidance on and suggests surveillance for conditions for which stillbirth is reported to occur more frequently than 0.8 per 1,000 (the false-negative rate of a biophysical profile) and which are associated with a relative risk or odds ratio for stillbirth of more than 2.0 compared with pregnancies without the condition. Table 1 presents suggestions for the timing and frequency of testing for specific conditions. As with all testing and interventions, shared decision making between the pregnant individual and the clinician is critically important when considering or offering antenatal fetal surveillance for individuals with pregnancies at high risk for stillbirth or with multiple comorbidities that increase the risk of stillbirth. It is important to emphasize that the guidance offered in this Committee Opinion should be construed only as suggestions; this guidance should not be construed as mandates or as all encompassing. Ultimately, individualization about if and when to offer antenatal fetal surveillance is advised.
Collapse
|
39
|
Patel KK, Saroj RK, Kumar M. Prevalence and Determinants of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes among Women in India: A Secondary Data Analysis. Indian J Community Med 2021; 46:434-437. [PMID: 34759482 PMCID: PMC8575229 DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_569_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to identify the determinants of adverse pregnancy outcomes (abortion, miscarriage, and stillbirth) among women aged 15-49 years in India. METHODOLOGY Data for the analysis were taken from the latest survey of the National Family Health Survey 2015-2016. The determinants associated with abortion, miscarriage, and stillbirth among women in the age group of 15-49 years were identified. The analysis was done using adjusted binary logistic regression. RESULTS The contributory variables such as age, level of education, type of residence, wealth status, caste, religion, body mass index (BMI), and anemia level were found to be significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes was significantly associated with all the selected predictors. CONCLUSION This study revealed that high prevalence of adverse pregnancy outcomes was found in India. The association between sociodemographic variables and the pregnancy outcomes are attributed to the fact that there is a lack of availability of fundamental health-care services for young women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamalesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Population Policies and Programmes, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Saroj
- Department of Community Medicine, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Gangtok, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Statistics, MMV, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Ovadia C, Sajous J, Seed PT, Patel K, Williamson NJ, Attilakos G, Azzaroli F, Bacq Y, Batsry L, Broom K, Brun-Furrer R, Bull L, Chambers J, Cui Y, Ding M, Dixon PH, Estiú MC, Gardiner FW, Geenes V, Grymowicz M, Günaydin B, Hague WM, Haslinger C, Hu Y, Indraccolo U, Juusela A, Kane SC, Kebapcilar A, Kebapcilar L, Kohari K, Kondrackienė J, Koster MPH, Lee RH, Liu X, Locatelli A, Macias RIR, Madazli R, Majewska A, Maksym K, Marathe JA, Morton A, Oudijk MA, Öztekin D, Peek MJ, Shennan AH, Tribe RM, Tripodi V, Türk Özterlemez N, Vasavan T, Wong LFA, Yinon Y, Zhang Q, Zloto K, Marschall HU, Thornton J, Chappell LC, Williamson C. Ursodeoxycholic acid in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:547-558. [PMID: 33915090 PMCID: PMC8192305 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00074-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ursodeoxycholic acid is commonly used to treat intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, yet its largest trial detected minimal benefit for a composite outcome (stillbirth, preterm birth, and neonatal unit admission). We aimed to examine whether ursodeoxycholic acid affects specific adverse perinatal outcomes. METHODS In this systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Global Health, MIDIRS, and Cochrane without language restrictions for relevant articles published between database inception, and Jan 1, 2020, using search terms referencing intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, ursodeoxycholic acid, and perinatal outcomes. Eligible studies had 30 or more study participants and reported on at least one individual with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and bile acid concentrations of 40 μmol/L or more. We also included two unpublished cohort studies. Individual participant data were collected from the authors of selected studies. The primary outcome was the prevalence of stillbirth, for which we anticipated there would be insufficient data to achieve statistical power. Therefore, we included a composite of stillbirth and preterm birth as a main secondary outcome. A mixed-effects meta-analysis was done using multi-level modelling and adjusting for bile acid concentration, parity, and multifetal pregnancy. Individual participant data analyses were done for all studies and in different subgroups, which were produced by limiting analyses to randomised controlled trials only, singleton pregnancies only, or two-arm studies only. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42019131495. FINDINGS The authors of the 85 studies fulfilling our inclusion criteria were contacted. Individual participant data from 6974 women in 34 studies were included in the meta-analysis, of whom 4726 (67·8%) took ursodeoxycholic acid. Stillbirth occurred in 35 (0·7%) of 5097 fetuses among women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy treated with ursodeoxycholic acid and in 12 (0·6%) of 2038 fetuses among women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy not treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1·04, 95% CI 0·35-3·07; p=0·95). Ursodeoxycholic acid treatment also had no effect on the prevalence of stillbirth when considering only randomised controlled trials (aOR 0·29, 95% CI 0·04-2·42; p=0·25). Ursodeoxycholic acid treatment had no effect on the prevalence of the composite outcome in all studies (aOR 1·28, 95% CI 0·86-1·91; p=0·22), but was associated with a reduced composite outcome when considering only randomised controlled trials (0·60, 0·39-0·91; p=0·016). INTERPRETATION Ursodeoxycholic acid treatment had no significant effect on the prevalence of stillbirth in women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, but our analysis was probably limited by the low overall event rate. However, when considering only randomised controlled trials, ursodeoxycholic acid was associated with a reduction in stillbirth in combination with preterm birth, providing evidence for the clinical benefit of antenatal ursodeoxycholic acid treatment. FUNDING Tommy's, the Wellcome Trust, ICP Support, and the National Institute for Health Research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ovadia
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jenna Sajous
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paul T Seed
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kajol Patel
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - George Attilakos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Francesco Azzaroli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Yannick Bacq
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Linoy Batsry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Kelsey Broom
- Bendigo Healthcare Group, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - Romana Brun-Furrer
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laura Bull
- Department of Medicine and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jenny Chambers
- Women's Health Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Yue Cui
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Ding
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peter H Dixon
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maria C Estiú
- Ramón Sardá Mother's and Children's Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Victoria Geenes
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Monika Grymowicz
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Berrin Günaydin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - William M Hague
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Yayi Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ugo Indraccolo
- Maternal-Infantile Department, Complex Operative Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology Alto Tevere Hospital of Città di Castello, Città di Castello, Italy
| | | | - Stefan C Kane
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ayse Kebapcilar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Katherine Kohari
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jūratė Kondrackienė
- Department of Gastroenterology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Maria P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Richard H Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Anna Locatelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Rocio I R Macias
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Riza Madazli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University, Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Agata Majewska
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kasia Maksym
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jessica A Marathe
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Adam Morton
- Department of Obstetric Medicine, Mater Health Services Public Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Martijn A Oudijk
- Department of Obstetrics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Deniz Öztekin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İzmir Bakircay University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Michael J Peek
- ANU Medical School, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Andrew H Shennan
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Tribe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Valeria Tripodi
- Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Naciye Türk Özterlemez
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tharni Vasavan
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - L F Audris Wong
- Department of Women's and Newborn, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - Yoav Yinon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Qianwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Keren Zloto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Hanns-Ulrich Marschall
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jim Thornton
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Lucy C Chappell
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Liyew AD, Molla M, Azene ZN. Risk Factors of Stillbirth Among Women Who Gave Birth in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia, in 2019: A Case-Control Study. Int J Womens Health 2021; 13:557-567. [PMID: 34149288 PMCID: PMC8205615 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s305786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Worldwide, 2.6 million stillbirths occur annually and more than three-quarters of them are recorded in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify risk factors of stillbirth among women who gave birth in Amhara region referral hospitals found in northwest and northcentral, Ethiopia in 2019. Methods A multi-center institution-based unmatched case-control study was conducted among 456 mothers who gave birth in Amhara region referral hospitals from October 1 to December 30, 2019. Consecutive and simple random sampling was used to select the cases and controls, respectively. A semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and patient chart reviews were used to collect the data. Epidemiological (Epi) data version 4.4.2.1 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Binary logistic regression was employed. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p-value<0.05 in the multivariable binary logistic regression model. Results Alcohol drinking (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=3.02, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.24–7.35), antepartum hemorrhage (AOR=5.74, 95% CI=2.67–12.33), premature rupture of membrane (AOR=2.21, 95% CI=1.09–4.44), meconium-stained amniotic fluid (AOR=8.18, 95% CI=4.29–15.60), non-use of partograph for labor follow-up (AOR=3.89, 95% CI=2.12–7.17), induction of labor (AOR=2.12, 95% CI=1.09–4.11), previous history of stillbirth (AOR=2.15, 95% CI=1.08–4.26), and birthweight less than 2,500 grams (AOR=7.36, 95% CI=3.43–15.81) increase the odds of stillbirth. Conclusion Stillbirth was higher among women who drank alcohol during their pregnancy, experienced antepartum hemorrhage, premature rupture of membrane, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, induction of labor, labor not followed by partograph, previous history of stillbirth, and birthweight less than 2,500 grams. As such, education to stop alcohol drinking during pregnancy, monitoring the progress of labor with partograph, and improving the quality of care for mothers and newborns at the time of pregnancy and childbirth will contribute to preventing stillbirth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mihretu Molla
- Department of Clinical Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Nigussie Azene
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Rutherford JN, Ross CN, Ziegler T, Burke LA, Steffen AD, Sills A, Layne Colon D, deMartelly VA, Narapareddy LR, Tardif SD. Womb to womb: Maternal litter size and birth weight but not adult characteristics predict early neonatal death of offspring in the common marmoset monkey. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252093. [PMID: 34106943 PMCID: PMC8189522 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
A singular focus on maternal health at the time of a pregnancy leaves much about perinatal mortality unexplained, especially when there is growing evidence for maternal early life effects. Further, lumping stillbirth and early neonatal death into a single category of perinatal mortality may obscure different causes and thus different avenues of screening and prevention. The common marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus), a litter-bearing nonhuman primate, is an ideal species in which to study the independent effects of a mother’s early life and adult phenotypes on pregnancy outcomes. We tested two hypotheses in 59 marmoset pregnancies at the Southwest National Primate Research Center and the Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies. We explored 1) whether pregnancy outcomes were predicted independently by maternal adult weight versus maternal litter size and birth weight, and 2) whether stillbirth and early neonatal death were differentially predicted by maternal variables. No maternal characteristics predicted stillbirth and no maternal adult characteristics predicted early neonatal death. In univariate Poisson models, triplet-born females had a significantly increased rate of early neonatal death (IRR[se] = 3.00[1.29], p = 0.011), while higher birth weight females had a decreased rate (IRR[se] = 0.89[0.05], p = 0.039). In multivariate Poisson models, maternal litter size remained an independent predictor, explaining 13% of the variance in early neonatal death. We found that the later in the first week those neonates died, the more weight they lost. Together these findings suggest that triplet-born and low birth weight females have distinct developmental trajectories underlying greater rates of infant loss, losses that we suggest may be attributable to developmental disruption of infant feeding and carrying. Our findings of early life contributions to adult pregnancy outcomes in the common marmoset disrupt mother-blaming narratives of pregnancy outcomes in humans. These narratives hold that the pregnant person is solely responsible for pregnancy outcomes and the health of their children, independent of socioecological factors, a moralistic framing that has shaped clinical pregnancy management. It is necessary to differentiate temporal trajectories and causes of perinatal loss and view them as embedded in external processes to develop screening, diagnostic, and treatment tools that consider the full arc of a mother’s lived experience, from womb to womb and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julienne N. Rutherford
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Corinna N. Ross
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Toni Ziegler
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Larisa A. Burke
- Office for Research Facilitation, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Alana D. Steffen
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Aubrey Sills
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Donna Layne Colon
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Victoria A. deMartelly
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Laren R. Narapareddy
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Suzette D. Tardif
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
VALENT AM, CHOI H, KOLAHI KS, THORNBURG KL. Hyperglycemia and gestational diabetes suppress placental glycolysis and mitochondrial function and alter lipid processing. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21423. [PMID: 33605480 PMCID: PMC8906558 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000326rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The degree that maternal glycemia affects placental metabolism of trophoblast cell types [cytotrophoblast (CTB) and syncytiotrophoblast (SCT)] in pregnant persons with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is unknown. We tested the hypotheses that (a) hyperglycemia suppresses the metabolic rates of CTB and SCT; and (b) low placental metabolic activity from GDM placentas is due to decreased oxygen consumption of CTB. Trophoblast cells isolated from GDM and non-GDM term placentas were cultured for 8-hour (CTB) and following syncytialization at 72-hour (SCT) in 5 mM of glucose or 25 mM of glucose. Oxygen consumption rates, glycolysis, ATP levels, and lipid droplet morphometries were determined in CTB and SCT. In CTB from GDM placentas compared to control CTB: (a) oxidative phosphorylation was decreased by 44% (41.8 vs 74.2 pmol O2 /min/100 ng DNA, P = .002); (b) ATP content was 39% lower (1.1 × 10-7 vs 1.8 × 10-7 nM/ng DNA, P = .046); and (c) lipid droplets were two times larger (31.0 vs 14.4 µm2 /cell, P < .001) and 1.7 times more numerous (13.5 vs 7.9 lipid droplets/cell, P < .001). Hyperglycemia suppressed CTB glycolysis by 55%-60% (mean difference 20.4 [GDM, P = .008] and 15.4 [non-GDM, P = .029] mpH/min/100 ng DNA). GDM SCT was not metabolically different from non-GDM SCT. However, GDM SCT had significantly decreased expression of genes associated with differentiation including hCG, GCM1, and syncytin-1. We conclude that suppressed metabolic activity by the GDM placenta is attributable to metabolic dysfunction of CTB, not SCT. Critical placental hormone expression and secretion are decreased in GDM trophoblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. VALENT
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Haeri CHOI
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Portland, OR 97239 USA,Oregon Health and Science University, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Center for Developmental Health, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Kevin S. KOLAHI
- Oregon Health and Science University, School of Medicine, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Kent L. THORNBURG
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Portland, OR 97239 USA,Oregon Health and Science University, School of Medicine, Portland, OR 97239 USA,Oregon Health and Science University, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Center for Developmental Health, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Hugh O, Williams M, Turner S, Gardosi J. Reduction of stillbirths in England from 2008 to 2017 according to uptake of the Growth Assessment Protocol: 10-year population-based cohort study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 57:401-408. [PMID: 32851727 DOI: 10.1002/uog.22187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antenatal detection of small-for-gestational age (SGA) can reduce significantly the risk of stillbirth. The Growth Assessment Protocol (GAP) was developed to address the problem that most SGA fetuses are missed antenatally. We set out to analyze the effect that the GAP program has had on stillbirth rates in England. METHODS We analyzed data from 2008 (the year before roll-out of the GAP program) to 2017 (latest available Office for National Statistics (ONS) unit-based data). The program consists of five elements: training, evidence-based guidelines for risk assessment and surveillance of fetal growth, customized charts, recording of process and outcome indicators, and audit of missed SGA cases. All maternity units in England were categorized into one of three groups according to their GAP status in 2017: (1) not in the GAP program; (2) GAP implemented partially (incomplete adoption of protocol, no monitoring and audit); and (3) GAP implemented completely. A subset of the complete-implementation group comprised the 20 units with the highest SGA detection rates. Unit-level live-birth and stillbirth data were obtained from the ONS for each of these groups. RESULTS Stillbirth rates declined across all groups from 2008 to 2017, and significantly more in units in which GAP was implemented completely than in the non-GAP units (P < 0.05). The steepest decline in stillbirth rate was observed in the 20 units with the highest SGA detection rates, which had a 24% lower stillbirth rate compared with the units not using GAP (P < 0.01) in 2017. This difference remained significant after mixed-effects logistic regression analysis of potential confounding, including social deprivation (odds ratio, 0.76 (95% CI, 0.64-0.90)). Assessment of the nine Bradford Hill causality criteria and associated characteristics suggested that the association between implementation of the GAP program and reduction in stillbirth rate was causal. CONCLUSIONS There has been an overall reduction in stillbirth rates in England that is likely to be a result of increased awareness of the importance of antenatal detection of SGA as a key risk factor for stillbirth. The decline in stillbirth rates was significantly greater in maternity units that had fully implemented the GAP program, and was most pronounced in the units with the highest antenatal SGA detection rates. © 2020 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O Hugh
- Perinatal Institute, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - S Turner
- Perinatal Institute, Birmingham, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize stillbirths associated with pregestational diabetes and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in a large, prospective, U.S. case-control study. METHODS A secondary analysis of stillbirths among patients enrolled in a prospective; multisite; geographically, racially, and ethnically diverse case-control study in the United States was performed. Singleton gestations with complete information regarding diabetes status and with a complete postmortem evaluation were included. A standard evaluation protocol for stillbirth cases included postmortem evaluation, placental pathology, clinical testing as performed at the discretion of the health care professional, and a recommended panel of tests. A potential cause of death was assigned to stillbirth cases using a standardized classification tool. Demographic and delivery characteristics among women with pregestational diabetes and GDM were compared with characteristics of women with no diabetes in pairwise comparisons using χ or two-sample t tests as appropriate. Sensitivity analysis was performed excluding pregnancies with genetic conditions or major fetal malformations. RESULTS Of 455 stillbirth cases included in the primary analysis, women with stillbirth and diabetes were more likely to be older than 35 years and have a higher body mass index. They were also more likely to have a gestational hypertensive disorder than women without diabetes (28% vs 9.1%; P<.001). Women with pregestational diabetes had more large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates (26% vs 3.4%; P<.001). Stillbirths occurred more often at term in women with pregestational diabetes (36%) and those with GDM (52%). Maternal medical complications, including pregestational diabetes and others, were more often identified as a probable or possible cause of death among stillbirths with maternal diabetes (43% vs 4%, P<.001) as compared with stillbirths without diabetes. CONCLUSION Compared with stillbirths in women with no diabetes, stillbirths among women with pregestational diabetes and GDM occur later in pregnancy and are associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, maternal medical complications, and LGA.
Collapse
|
46
|
Wang P, Pan J, Tian X, Dong X, Ju W, Wang Y, Zhong N. Transcriptomics-determined chemokine-cytokine pathway presents a common pathogenic mechanism in pregnancy loss and spontaneous preterm birth. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13398. [PMID: 33565696 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Various etiological factors, such as infection and inflammation, may induce the adverse outcomes of pregnancy of miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm birth. The pathogenic mechanisms associated with these adverse pregnancies are yet unclear. We hypothesized that a common pathogenic mechanism may underlie variant adverse outcomes of pregnancy, which are induced by genetic-environmental factors. The specific objective of the current study is to uncover the common molecular mechanism(s) by identifying the specific transcripts that are present in variant subtypes of pregnancy loss and preterm birth. METHOD OF STUDY Transcriptomic profiling was performed with RNA expression microarray or RNA sequencing of placentas derived from pregnancy loss (which includes spontaneous miscarriage, recurrent miscarriage, and stillbirth) and spontaneous preterm birth, followed by bioinformatic analysis of multi-omic integration to identify pathogenic molecules and pathways involved in pathological pregnancies. RESULTS The enrichment of common differentially expressed genes between full-term birth and preterm birth and pregnancy loss of miscarriage and stillbirth revealed different pathophysiological pathway(s), including cytokine signaling dysregulated in spontaneous preterm birth, defense response, graft-versus-host disease, antigen processing and presentation, and T help cell differentiation in spontaneous miscarriage. Thirty-three genes shared between spontaneous preterm birth and spontaneous miscarriage were engaged in pathways of interferon gamma-mediated signaling and of antigen processing and presentation. For spontaneous miscarriage, immune response was enriched in the fetal tissue of chorionic villi and in the maternal facet of the placental sac. The transcript of nerve growth factor receptor was identified as the common molecule that is differentially expressed in all adverse pregnancies: spontaneous preterm birth, stillbirth, spontaneous miscarriage, and recurrent miscarriage. Superoxide dismutase 2 was up-regulated in all adverse outcomes of pregnancy except for recurrent miscarriage. Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction was the common pathway in spontaneous preterm birth and spontaneous miscarriage. Defense response was enriched in the fetal tissue of miscarriage and in the maternal tissue in spontaneous miscarriage. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that the chemokine-cytokine pathway may play important roles in and function as a common pathogenic mechanism associated with, the different adverse outcomes of pregnancy, which demonstrated that differentially expressed transcripts could result from a common pathogenic mechanism associated with pregnancy loss and spontaneous preterm birth, although individual pregnancy outcomes may differ from each other phenotypically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peirong Wang
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA.,Center for Medical Device Evaluation, National Medical Product Administration, 50 Qixiang Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jing Pan
- Sanya Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Hainan, China
| | - Xiujuan Tian
- Sanya Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Hainan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Dong
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA.,Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weina Ju
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nanbert Zhong
- New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Smith GC, Moraitis AA, Wastlund D, Thornton JG, Papageorghiou A, Sanders J, Heazell AE, Robson SC, Sovio U, Brocklehurst P, Wilson EC. Universal late pregnancy ultrasound screening to predict adverse outcomes in nulliparous women: a systematic review and cost-effectiveness analysis. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-190. [PMID: 33656977 PMCID: PMC7958245 DOI: 10.3310/hta25150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, pregnant women are screened using ultrasound to perform gestational aging, typically at around 12 weeks' gestation, and around the middle of pregnancy. Ultrasound scans thereafter are performed for clinical indications only. OBJECTIVES We sought to assess the case for offering universal late pregnancy ultrasound to all nulliparous women in the UK. The main questions addressed were the diagnostic effectiveness of universal late pregnancy ultrasound to predict adverse outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of either implementing universal ultrasound or conducting further research in this area. DESIGN We performed diagnostic test accuracy reviews of five ultrasonic measurements in late pregnancy. We conducted cost-effectiveness and value-of-information analyses of screening for fetal presentation, screening for small for gestational age fetuses and screening for large for gestational age fetuses. Finally, we conducted a survey and a focus group to determine the willingness of women to participate in a future randomised controlled trial. DATA SOURCES We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library from inception to June 2019. REVIEW METHODS The protocol for the review was designed a priori and registered. Eligible studies were identified using keywords, with no restrictions for language or location. The risk of bias in studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool. Health economic modelling employed a decision tree analysed via Monte Carlo simulation. Health outcomes were from the fetal perspective and presented as quality-adjusted life-years. Costs were from the perspective of the public sector, defined as NHS England, and the costs of special educational needs. All costs and quality-adjusted life-years were discounted by 3.5% per annum and the reference case time horizon was 20 years. RESULTS Umbilical artery Doppler flow velocimetry, cerebroplacental ratio, severe oligohydramnios and borderline oligohydramnios were all either non-predictive or weakly predictive of the risk of neonatal morbidity (summary positive likelihood ratios between 1 and 2) and were all weakly predictive of the risk of delivering a small for gestational age infant (summary positive likelihood ratios between 2 and 4). Suspicion of fetal macrosomia is strongly predictive of the risk of delivering a large infant, but it is only weakly, albeit statistically significantly, predictive of the risk of shoulder dystocia. Very few studies blinded the result of the ultrasound scan and most studies were rated as being at a high risk of bias as a result of treatment paradox, ascertainment bias or iatrogenic harm. Health economic analysis indicated that universal ultrasound for fetal presentation only may be both clinically and economically justified on the basis of existing evidence. Universal ultrasound including fetal biometry was of borderline cost-effectiveness and was sensitive to assumptions. Value-of-information analysis indicated that the parameter that had the largest impact on decision uncertainty was the net difference in cost between an induced delivery and expectant management. LIMITATIONS The primary literature on the diagnostic effectiveness of ultrasound in late pregnancy is weak. Value-of-information analysis may have underestimated the uncertainty in the literature as it was focused on the internal validity of parameters, which is quantified, whereas the greatest uncertainty may be in the external validity to the research question, which is unquantified. CONCLUSIONS Universal screening for presentation at term may be justified on the basis of current knowledge. The current literature does not support universal ultrasonic screening for fetal growth disorders. FUTURE WORK We describe proof-of-principle randomised controlled trials that could better inform the case for screening using ultrasound in late pregnancy. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017064093. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 15. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Cs Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alexandros A Moraitis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David Wastlund
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jim G Thornton
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Aris Papageorghiou
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Julia Sanders
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Alexander Ep Heazell
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen C Robson
- Reproductive and Vascular Biology Group, The Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ulla Sovio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Brocklehurst
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Edward Cf Wilson
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Health Economics Group, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Strong Association Between Placental Pathology and Second-trimester Miscarriage. ARCHIVES OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY 2021; 2:51-56. [PMID: 34557867 PMCID: PMC8457358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
49
|
Gent J, Bullough S, Harrold J, Jackson R, Woolfall K, Andronis L, Kenny L, Cornforth C, Heazell AEP, Benbow E, Alfirevic Z, Sharp A. The PLANES study: a protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility study of the placental growth factor (PlGF) blood test-informed care versus standard care alone for women with a small for gestational age fetus at or after 32 + 0 weeks' gestation. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2020; 6:179. [PMID: 33292754 PMCID: PMC7677818 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-020-00722-x] [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: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stillbirth remains a major concern across the globe and in some high-resource countries, such as the UK; efforts to reduce the rate have achieved only modest reductions. One third of stillborn babies are small for gestational age (SGA), and these pregnancies are also at risk of neonatal adverse outcomes and lifelong health problems, especially when delivered preterm. Current UK clinical guidance advocates regular monitoring and early term delivery of the SGA fetus; however, the most appropriate regimen for surveillance of these babies remains unclear and often leads to increased intervention for a large number of these women. This pilot trial will determine the feasibility of a large-scale trial refining the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome in SGA pregnancies using biomarkers of placental function sFlt-1/PlGF, identifying and intervening in only those deemed at highest risk of stillbirth. Methods PLANES is a randomised controlled feasibility study of women with an SGA fetus that will be conducted at two tertiary care hospitals in the UK. Once identified on ultrasound, women will be randomised into two groups in a 3:1 ratio in favour of sFlt-1/PlGF ratio led management vs standard care. Women with an SGA fetus and a normal sFlt-1/PlGF ratio will have a repeat ultrasound and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio every 2 weeks with planned birth delayed until 40 weeks. In those women with an SGA fetus and an abnormal sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, we will offer birth from 37 weeks or sooner if there are other concerning features on ultrasound. Women assigned to standard care will have an sFlt-1/PlGF ratio taken, but the results will be concealed from the clinical team, and the woman’s pregnancy will be managed as per the local NHS hospital policy. This integrated mixed method study will also involve a health economic analysis and a perspective work package exploring trial feasibility through interviews and questionnaires with participants, their partners, and clinicians. Discussion Our aim is to determine feasibility through the assessment of our ability to recruit and retain participants to the study. Results from this pilot study will inform the design of a future large randomised controlled trial that will be adequately powered for adverse pregnancy outcome. Such a study would provide the evidence needed to guide future management of the SGA fetus. Trial registration ISRCTN58254381. Registered on 4 July 2019
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Gent
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sian Bullough
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jane Harrold
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Jackson
- Liverpool Clinical Trials Unit, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kerry Woolfall
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lazaros Andronis
- Division of Health Sciences and Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Louise Kenny
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, 5th Floor (Research), St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Emily Benbow
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Zarko Alfirevic
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Andrew Sharp
- Harris-Wellbeing Research Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Heinke D, Rich-Edwards JW, Williams PL, Hernandez-Diaz S, Anderka M, Fisher SC, Desrosiers TA, Shaw GM, Romitti PA, Canfield M, Yazdy MM. Quantification of selection bias in studies of risk factors for birth defects among livebirths. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2020; 34:655-664. [PMID: 32249969 PMCID: PMC7541428 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk factors for birth defects are frequently investigated using data limited to liveborn infants. By conditioning on survival, results of such studies may be distorted by selection bias, also described as "livebirth bias." However, the implications of livebirth bias on risk estimation remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We sought to quantify livebirth bias and to investigate the conditions under which it arose. METHODS We used data on 3994 birth defects cases and 11 829 controls enrolled in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study to compare odds ratio (OR) estimates of the relationship between three established risk factors (antiepileptic drug use, smoking, and multifetal pregnancy) and four birth defects (anencephaly, spina bifida, omphalocele, and cleft palate) when restricted to livebirths as compared to among livebirths, stillbirths, and elective terminations. Exposures and birth defects represented varying strengths of association with livebirth; all controls were liveborn. We performed a quantitative bias analysis to evaluate the sensitivity of our results to excluding terminated and stillborn controls. RESULTS Cases ranged from 33% liveborn (anencephaly) to 99% (cleft palate). Smoking and multifetal pregnancy were associated with livebirth among anencephaly (crude OR [cOR] 0.61 and cOR 3.15, respectively) and omphalocele cases (cOR 2.22 and cOR 5.22, respectively). For analyses of the association between exposures and birth defects, restricting to livebirths produced negligible differences in estimates except for anencephaly and multifetal pregnancy, which was twofold higher among livebirths (adjusted OR [aOR] 4.93) as among all pregnancy outcomes (aOR 2.44). Within tested scenarios, bias analyses suggested that results were not sensitive to the restriction to liveborn controls. CONCLUSIONS Selection bias was generally limited except for high mortality defects in the context of exposures strongly associated with livebirth. Findings indicate that substantial livebirth bias is unlikely to affect studies of risk factors for most birth defects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominique Heinke
- Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Janet W. Rich-Edwards
- Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Paige L. Williams
- Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sonia Hernandez-Diaz
- Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marlene Anderka
- Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sarah C. Fisher
- Congenital Malformations Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York
| | - Tania A. Desrosiers
- University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Gary M. Shaw
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Paul A. Romitti
- College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Mark Canfield
- Texas Department of State Health Services, Austin, Texas
| | - Mahsa M. Yazdy
- Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|