Perinatal outcomes and risk factors of Turkish adolescent mothers

Mirroring Perinatal Outcomes in a Romanian Adolescent Cohort of Pregnant Women from 2015 to 2021

Although the rates of adolescent pregnancies appear to have dropped according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the decrease in the age of the first menarche and better nutrition seems to contribute to the otherwise high rate of adolescent pregnancy worldwide, despite the efforts of different organizations to improve upon this trend. We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study from January 2015 to December 2021 using our hospitals' database. We totaled 2.954 adolescent and 6.802 adult pregnancies. First, we compared younger adolescents' outcomes with those of older adolescents, as well as with adolescents aged between 18 and 19 years old; secondly, we compared adolescent pregnancies with adult ones. We detected higher percentages of cephalo-pelvic disproportion (43.2%), cervical dystocia (20.7%), and twin pregnancy (2.7%) in underage adolescents compared with 32%, 14.1%, and 1% in older underage adolescents, respectively, and 15.3%, 3.1%, and 0.6% in older ones. As teens became older, the likelihood of malpresentations and previous C-sections rose, whereas the likelihood of vaginal lacerations declined. When comparing adolescents with adult women, we found more cases that required episiotomy (48.1% compared with 34.6%), instrumental delivery (2.1% compared with 1%), and cervical laceration (10.7% compared with 8.4%) in the adolescent group, but the rates of malpresentation (11.4% compared with 13.5%), previous C-section (13.9% compared with 17.7%), and placenta and vasa praevia (4.5.6% compared with 14%) were higher in the adult women group. Adolescent pregnancy is prone to being associated with higher risks and complications and continues to represent a challenge for our medical system.

Relationship of Age at Menarche, Coitarche and First Gestation: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

Introduction

Teenage pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy occurring between ages 10 and 19 (Loredo-Abdlá et al., 2017; Belitzky, 1985; Kaplanoglu et al., 2015), and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality for both mother and child. Several factors have been identified with increased risk of a teenage pregnancy, including incomplete sexual education awareness and increased exposure at a young age. In addition, an earlier onset of sexual intercourse, or coitarche, has been linked to a higher risk of teenage pregnancy. Early menarche, defined as first menstruation before the age of 12 has been previously identified as a risk factor for an earlier coitarche, possibly linking an early menarche with a higher incidence of teenage pregnancy. This study aims to compare and determine the relationship between the incidence of teenage pregnancy with early menarche and coitarche in a low income setting.

Design Setting Participants Interventions Main Outcome Measures

A cross sectional review of electronic records of women admitted for delivery in a second level center in northeastern Mexico, being a low-income setting, where 814 teenage and 1474 adult mothers were included.

Results

Primigravid teenagers had earlier menarche and coitarche than adult counterparts and opted for postpartum contraception more frequently. Linear regression analysis revealed significant unadjusted beta coefficients between age at first pregnancy and coitarche (0.839) and menarche (0.362). Menarche and coitarche had a significant linear regression association of 0.395.

Conclusion

We found amongst primigravid patients that teenagers had earlier menarche and coitarche than adults, which in turn correlated to their age at their first pregnancy.

Identifying the Risk Factors Associated with Surgical Site Infection Following Cesarean Section in Adolescent Mothers

STUDY OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the modifiable risk factors associated with surgical site infection (SSI) after cesarean section in adolescent pregnant patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective case-control study SETTING: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tepecik Education and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey PARTICIPANTS: Pregnant adolescents (≤ 19 years) who underwent cesarean section at our institution between January 2014 and March 2021 INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: To determine the modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors associated with SSI following cesarean section in adolescents. The diagnosis of SSI was made according to the criteria defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

RESULTS

SSI was diagnosed in 62 (2.9%) of 2105 adolescent mothers who underwent cesarean section. Univariate and multivariate analyses confirmed that body mass index (BMI) (OR = 2.35; 95% CI, 1.3-4.78), induction of labor (OR = 1.9; 95% CI, 1.2-3.71), and preoperative hemoglobin values less than 10 g/dl (OR = 2.1; 95% CI, 1.2-4.46) were risk factors for SSI in adolescent mothers. Patient- and operation-related risk factors did not reach the level of statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI, labor induction, and antenatal anemia were independent risk factors for SSI in adolescents. Among these, BMI and anemia were modifiable patient-related risk factors. Addressing obesity in adolescents and treating prenatal anemia could be the first steps toward preventing SSI.

Effects of ambient temperature on the risk of preterm birth in offspring of adolescent mothers in rural henan, China

BACKGROUND

A number of studies have explored the association between ambient temperature and preterm birth (PTB), but rarely among adolescent mothers.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the effects of ambient temperature on the risk of PTB and gestational age of newborns delivered by adolescent mothers in rural areas of Henan province.

METHODS

We obtained 5394 medical records of adolescent mothers with results of pre-pregnancy physical examination and pregnancy outcomes from the National Free Preconception Health Examination Project (NFPHEP) in Henan province. Meteorological information was obtained from the China Meteorological Data Sharing Service System. Individual exposure levels were evaluated with an inverse distance-weighted model. A multiple logistic regression model and multiple linear regression model were used to estimate the effects of ambient temperature on the risk of PTB and gestational age, respectively. Stratified and interaction analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

Of newborns in this study, 3.45% (186/5394) were PTB. Mean, maximum and minimum temperature during the entire pregnancy, especially the last 1-4 weeks of pregnancy, were positively associated with the risk of PTB and negatively associated with gestational age (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, a masking effect was observed that gestational age was positively associated with ambient temperature during the first trimester of pregnancy, due to the strongly inverse correlation between ambient temperature during the early and late stages of pregnancy. Stratified analyses showed that increasing temperature during the last 1-4 weeks of pregnancy increased the risk of PTB and decreased gestational age in newborns born in the cold season (P < 0.05). Furthermore, interaction analyses showed that birth season modified the effects of temperature on the gestational age (P_interaction < 0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated ambient temperature can decrease gestational age and increase the risk of PTB in offspring of adolescent mothers in rural areas. The birth season may modify the effects of temperature on gestational age.

Teenage pregnancy and the sociodemographic attributes as a major contributor: Findings from an urban referral center in Nepal

BACKGROUND

Teenage pregnancy is a challenging issue worldwide. Yet, despite the increased health risk and socioeconomic impact of teenage pregnancy, the numbers remain high in Nepal.

AIM

To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with teenage pregnancy in Nepal.

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital from April to August 2017. A total of 1359 mothers were assessed and interviewed regarding their reproductive history and sociodemographic attributes. Ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research Council, permission from the concerned hospital, and consent from study subjects were obtained.

RESULTS

Of the 5526 deliveries, 679 (12.3%) were teenage pregnancy deliveries. The majority (85.1%) of mothers (out of 1359) were married at < 20 years of age, with a mean age of marriage of 17.57 years (± 1.994, range: 12-25 years). Marriage age was a significant determinant of teenage pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 2.423 [2.262-2.596]; P < 0.001). Likewise, a love marriage (OR: 2.018 [1.585-2.570]; P < 0.001) and first teenage pregnancy (OR: 3.622 [3.265-4.017]; P < 0.001) were significant determinants for subsequent teen pregnancies. Knowledge of family planning methods (OR: 0.474; 0.288-0.779; P = 0.003) and use of any methods of family planning utilization (OR: 0.345; 0.248-0.479; P = 0.000) significantly lowered the chance of teenage pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Teenage pregnancy occupies a substantial proportion of total deliveries in the Nepalese maternity hospital. In addition, early pregnancy was significantly associated with age and type of marriage, education level, knowledge, and practice of contraceptive methods.

Transition into the sexual and reproductive role: a qualitative exploration of Iranian married adolescent girls' needs and experiences

Background

It is necessary to invest in married adolescent girls’ health because of their roles in promoting the community and health of the next generation. Meanwhile, there are many concerns about their sexual and reproductive health. The International Conference on Population and Development emphasized the importance of access to adolescent girls to reproductive health services and counseling. In Iran, about 24% of registered marriages are to girls under 19, while their sexual and reproductive health needs have neglected. Therefore, this study aimed to identify married adolescent girls’ reproductive and sexual needs.

Methods/design

Data were obtained through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with 36 participants, including 11 women who got married at 10 to 21 years of age, two mothers whose daughters were married in adolescence, and 23 healthcare providers and policymakers. The participants were selected through purposive sampling with maximum variation. Data collection continued until data saturation. The interviews were analyzed by qualitative content analysis. Similar codes were merged, and sub-categorization was performed, whereby similar categories were combined until the main categories that emerged.

Results

The results revealed five main categories: preparing for marriage, enhancing awareness and decision—making power on sexual and reproductive health issues, developing adolescent-friendly sexual and reproductive services, providing tailored pregnancy and childbirth services, and preparing adolescents for motherhood.

Conclusion

Adolescents step into marital life without the required life skills or physical and mental preparedness. They often become pregnant due to social pressures and lack of access to contraception. Therefore, in countries like Iran, where there is a high frequency of early marriage, families, education, and the health system should prepare the necessary foundation to support these adolescents and provide tailored and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services.

Married adolescent girls have unique sexual and reproductive health needs; however, the appropriate services have not always been provided. This was a qualitative study conducted in Iran to explore married adolescent girls’ reproductive and sexual needs. We found that married adolescent girls were not prepared for marriage and had limited awareness and decision-making power on sexual and reproductive issues. There is a need to develop adolescent-friendly sexual and reproductive services. It is essential to give tailored pregnancy and childbirth services and prepare adolescents for motherhood. Adolescents step into marital life without the required life skills and physical and mental preparedness. They do not have the proper knowledge and ability to decide on sexuality and reproductive issues. Therefore, families, education, and health system should prepare the necessary foundation to support and empower these adolescents, and provide tailored and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services.

Vitamin D deficiency in adolescent pregnancy and obstetric outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rates of vitamin D deficiency in adolescent pregnants and its influence on the obstetric outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 300 singleton pregnant women aged between 14 and 20 years, were divided into three groups according to their gestational weeks (100 pregnant adolescents from each trimester). Randomly selected 300 singleton pregnant women older than 20 years of age with the similar gestational ages were designed as the control group at the same time period. We divided serum 25(OH)D levels into three categories deficiency, inadequacy and adequate levels according to the Endocrine Society guidelines. Serum 25(OH)D levels were also evaluated according to age, seasons and gestational periods. Adverse obstetric outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Overall, 86% of the subjects were found to have deficient 25(OH)D levels (<20 ng/ml). The levels indicated an inadequate state in 72 subjects (12%) and only 12 (2%) women had adequate 25 (OH) D levels. Among adult pregnant women the rates of deficient, inadequate and adequate levels were 88.3%, 11%, and 0.7% respectively. Among adolescent pregnant women these rates were 83.7%, 13%, and 3.3% respectively. The lowest 25(OH)D levels occurred during the winter while the highest levels were detected during the summer in both groups. Calcidiol, 25(OH)D, was a significant predictor for preterm delivery (AUC = 0,909; p < 0,001) and also for SGA (AUC = 0,915; p < 0,001). Maternal age was another significant predictor for SGA (AUC = 0,787; p < 0,001) and preterm delivery (AUC = 0,785; p < 0,001).

CONCLUSION

We found a high incidence of 25(OH)D deficiency in Turkish pregnant women. Adolescent age and low 25(OH)D levels are significant risk factors for PTD and SGA. Effective prophylaxis programs for vitamin D deficieny and/or fortification of foods with vitamin D are essential in pregnant women especially in the winter season.

Caracterización de la población gestante adolescente atendida en el Hospital Militar Central de Bogotá D.C., Colombia. 2012-2015

Introducción. A pesar de que en Colombia hay una alta prevalencia de embarazos en adolescentes, aún no se han establecido los resultados obstétricos y perinatales adversos en esta población.Objetivo. Caracterizar los desenlaces obstétricos y perinatales de las gestantes adolescentes atendidas en el Hospital Militar Central de Bogotá D.C., Colombia.Materiales y métodos. Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y transversal realizado mediante la revisión de las historias clínicas de 147 gestantes adolescentes atendidas entre mayo de 2012 y diciembre de 2015 en el Hospital Militar Central de Bogotá D.C.Resultados. El promedio de edad fue 17±1.5 años; 59.8% eran estudiantes (secundaria y educación superior) y 64.6%, solteras. En cuanto a los controles prenatales, 127 (86.4%) los iniciaron tardíamente y 108 (73.5%) tuvieron menos de 4. La frecuencia general de complicaciones obstétricas fue 27.9%, entre las que se destacan los trastornos hipertensivos del embarazo (10.2%) y la amenaza de parto pretérmino (8.2%); no se presentaron muertes maternas. Por su parte, las patologías neonatales más comunes fueron ictericia neonatal (4.8%) y síndrome de dificultad respiratoria (3.4%).Conclusiones. Las complicaciones se presentaron con mayor frecuencia en las adolescentes que iniciaron los controles prenatales de forma tardía, por lo que se deben implementar estrategias para garantizar el inicio temprano de estos controles y la adherencia a los mismos. Además, es necesario evaluar el impacto de los programas de planificación familiar en esta población.

Teenage Pregnancy: Obstetric and Perinatal Outcome in a Tertiary Centre in Indonesia

Background

The incidence of teenage pregnancy is increasing in the world. It is a high-risk condition leading to adverse perinatal and obstetric outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the obstetric and perinatal outcomes of teenage pregnancy in Indonesian population.

Method

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate obstetric and perinatal outcomes among teenagers and average maternal age (AMA) women. We assessed all singleton live pregnancies during the year period of 2013 in Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Results

We studied 1,676 eligible subjects during the one-year period in our centre. The prevalence of teenage pregnancy (12 to 19 years old) was 11.40% (191/1676). We found higher prevalence of eclampsia (AOR: 4.03; 95% CI: 1.73–9.39), preterm delivery (AOR: 1.5; 95% CI: 0.88–2.53), anaemia at labour (AOR: 2.42; 95% CI: 1.60–3.67), postpartum haemorrhage (AOR: 2.59; 95% CI: 0.86–7.37), and low birth weight (AOR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.60–3.25) among teenagers. However, caesarean section was found to be significantly lower among teenage pregnancies.

Conclusion

Teenage pregnancy carries significant obstetric complications that should draw physicians' serious attention. A holistic, comprehensive antenatal, and preventive program should be conducted to prevent teenage pregnancy-related adverse outcomes.

Maternal Characteristics and Obstetric and Neonatal Outcomes of Singleton Pregnancies Among Adolescents

Background

Adolescent pregnancy remains a global public health issue with serious implications on maternal and child health, particularly in developing countries The aim of this study was to investigate maternal characteristics and obstetric and neonatal outcomes of singleton pregnancies among adolescents.

Material/Methods

A total of 241 adolescent women who gave birth to singletons between January 2015 and December 2015 at our hospital were included in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Data on maternal sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics as well as neonatal outcome were recorded.

Results

Primary school education (66.0%), lack of regular antenatal care (69.7%), religious (36.7%) and consanguineous (37.0) marriage, Southeastern Anatolia hometown (34.9%) and Eastern Anatolia hometown (21.2%) were noted in most of the adolescent pregnancies, while 95% were desired pregnancies within marriage. Pregnancy complications were noted in 19.5% (preeclampsia in 5.8%) and cesarean delivery was performed in 44.8% of adolescent pregnancies. Preterm delivery rate was 27.0% (20.3% were in >34 weeks). Overall, 13.3% of neonates were admitted to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in the postpartum period (prematurity in 28.1%), while 25.3% were re-admitted to NICU admission in the post-discharge 1-month (hyperbilirubinemia in 55.7%). Adolescent pregnancies were associated considerably high rates of fetal distress at birth (28.7%), preterm delivery (26.9%), and re-admission to NICU after hospital discharge (25.3%).

Conclusions

In conclusion, our findings indicate that along with considerably high rates of poor antenatal care, maternal anemia and cesarean delivery, adolescent pregnancies were also associated with high rates for fetal distress at birth, preterm delivery, and NICU re-admission within post-discharge 1-month.

Hospital-Based Study of Maternal, Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes in Adolescent Pregnancy Compared to Adult Women Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Adolescent pregnancy, defined as a pregnancy in girls aged 10 to 19 years. Adolescent mothers are at high risk for maternal and neonatal complications.

AIM

To compare maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes in adolescents and adult women aged 20-24 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included all singleton pregnancies during a three-year period (January 2016-December 2018) who gave birth in a Clinical Hospital in Tetovo, Republic of Macedonia. After exclusion criteria, a total of 932 cases were reviewed and divided into two groups: one of the teenage mothers (< 19 years old) (115 women) and the other of adult mothers (20-24 years old) (817 women).

RESULTS

Of the total number of 5643 births, 128 (2.27%) were from adolescent pregnancies. Of them, nulliparous adolescent women were 115 (2.04%). Adolescents compare to adult mothers had a higher rate of urinary tract infections (33% vs. 22%), increased rate of maternal anemia (26% vs. 15%), preterm birth, small for gestational age newborns (25.2% vs. 17.1%), lower high school attendance (0 vs. 21.9%) and inadequate prenatal care. Spontaneous labour was more common in adolescents (73% vs 63.5%), while Caesarean sections were less common than in women aged 20-24 years (25.2% vs 33.5%). The rate of other perinatal outcomes was not significantly different between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study showed that the frequencies of some maternal, perinatal and neonatal complications were considerably higher in adolescent mothers.

From Early Marriage to Adolescent Pregnancy in Turkey

Early marriages/child marriages, defined as formal marriages or informal unions before age 18, have been studied within other adolescence issues in Turkey. Adolescence pregnancies resulting from early marriages in Turkey should not be evaluated without considering the socio-cultural context. This is because this problem occurs mostly under the marriage structure even if it is too early (under the age of 18) and families approve of such marriages. The purpose of this study is to discuss adolescent pregnancies as a result of early marriages in Turkey in accordance with the socio-cultural context pertaining to the social structure of Turkey.

Neonatologist training in communication and palliative care

Neonatologists receive highly varied and largely inadequate training to acquire and maintain communication and palliative care skills. Neonatology fellows often need to give distressing news to families and frequently face unique communication challenges. While several approaches to teaching these skills exist, practice opportunities through simulation and role play will likely provide the most effective learning.

Obstetric and neonatal outcomes of adolescent pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

We performed a retrospective study to evaluate adolescent pregnancies as for gestational complications, and prinatal outcomes.

METHODS

We evaluated 341 pregnants whose data we could reach regarding gestational, and perinatal complications.

RESULTS

In our study group anemia (35.4%), preeclampsia/eclampsia (1.45%), premature membrane rupture (1.4%), intrauterine growth retardation (3.81%), and instrumental delivery (0.3%) were seen in indicated incidence rates.

CONCLUSION

In our retrospective study, we found lower our complication rates in adolescent age group when compared with the adult age group, and other studies performed in adolescents. Since our hospital is a tertiary health care institute, and we monitorized our patients closely, our incidence rates can be better than those cited in the literature. As long as proper antenatal surveillance is employed, adolescent mothers do not seem to have increased risk for most of obstetric complications.

Gynecologic age is an important risk factor for obstetric and perinatal outcomes in adolescent pregnancies

BACKGROUND

Adolescent pregnancy is an important public health problem. Physiological maturity affects obstetric and perinatal outcomes. Almost all assessments of adolescent pregnancies are based on chronological age. Gynecologic age (GA) is defined as age in years at conception minus age at menarche and it is an indicator of physiological maturity.

AIM

To compare obstetric and perinatal outcomes between adult and adolescent pregnancies as categorized according to GA.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 233 adolescent pregnant women were divided into two groups based on GA≤3 years (101 women) and GA>3 years (132 women). Their obstetric and perinatal results were compared with 202 adult pregnancies who gave birth in the same period.

FINDINGS

Gestational age at delivery, APGAR scores, birth weight, and incidence of preterm birth, admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and premature rupture of membranes were significantly different between the study groups. Compared to adolescent pregnancies with GA>3 years, adolescent pregnancies with GA≤3 years had significantly lower birth weight, gestational age, APGAR scores, and significantly higher incidence of intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight and admission to NICU.

CONCLUSION

Low GA is associated with an increased rate of obstetric and perinatal complications in adolescent pregnancies. Although the main aim is the prevention of adolescent pregnancies, a detailed evaluation of such pregnancies including determination of the gynecological age together with a multidisciplinary approach may decrease potential complications.

Perinatal outcomes and risk factors in adolescent and advanced age pregnancies: comparison with normal reproductive age women

The objective of the study was to analyse and compare demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of pregnancies in adolescent, advanced age and normal reproductive age women. All completed pregnancies in a 6-month period, registered by the family practitioners in Denizli province, were included into the study. A face-to-face questionnaire was used to gather information. Participants were asked for demographic information, pregnancy outcome and obstetric history, obstetric and neonatal problems. Overall 5,882 pregnancies in different age groups: 296 (5%) adolescent (< 20-years-old); 4,957 (84.3%) normal reproductive age (20-35-years-old) and 629 (10.7%) advanced age (> 35-years-old ) (group III), were included into the study. Adolescent women had a lower educational status (p < 0.01), and family played a major role in decision of marriage (p < 0.01). Birth weight of the baby was lower in adolescents (p < 0.01). While adolescents tended to deliver vaginally (OR = 1.9, p < 0.01), elderly women were more prone to operative delivery (OR = 1.2, p < 0.05). Risk of caesarean section rate was higher in elderly nulliparous women (OR = 2.2, p 0.01). The number of spontaneous and induced abortions were increased with age (p < 0.01). Antenatal problems were seen least frequently in normal reproductive age women. Both antenatal (OR = 1.7, p < 0.01) and neonatal problems (OR = 1.5, p < 0.05), were significantly higher in advanced age pregnancy. It was concluded that with sufficient antenatal care, adolescent pregnancy is not associated with an increase in adverse pregnancy outcome, except low birth weights. Advanced maternal age is more likely to be associated with increased obstetric, maternal and neonatal complications.

Underage mothers in Turkey

BACKGROUND

All individuals under the age of 18 are considered as children by the Convention on the Rights of Children. Underage mothers are a pediatric-age group of children that become pregnant and give birth. It may be unfamiliar in Western countries, but in Middle-Eastern countries ruled by religious laws and old-fashioned traditions, it is common for an older man to marry a girl. The aim of this study was to describe the status of underage mothers within the framework of children's rights and to draw attention to this issue. We presented this study to increase awareness and sensitivity, and to scrutinize and discuss these topics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively investigated cases of underaged pregnant girls who applied to Forensic Science Department outpatient clinics and Obstetrics and Gynecology Department outpatient clinics of Gaziosmanpasa University Faculty of Medicine between 2003 and 2013. Results We accessed records of 163 underage mothers (≤ 18 age). Mean age was 16.9 ± 0.83 (14-18 years). Gravida and parity rates increased proportionately with increasing age. Most of our cases were 16 and 17 years of age (n: 117, 71.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Underage motherhood is not only a medical issue; it is a multi-dimensional problem with social, economic, traditional, religious, and legal aspects.

A comparison between adolescent mothers and adult mothers in terms of maternal and infant outcomes at follow-ups

OBJECTIVE

To determine the risk factors of adolescent pregnancies and to ascertain the effects of this condition on the maternal and infant outcomes.

METHODS

The study was carried out on 100 adolescent mothers less than 20 years of age and on a same number of adult mothers between 22 and 32 years of age and their infants. A socio-demographic attributes questionnaire form, a pregnancy follow-up and birth history form, and a mother and infant follow-up form were used.

RESULTS

The mean age of the adolescent mothers was 17.8 ± 0.7 years and that of the adult mothers was 26 ± 0.3 years. Income level of 83% of the families of adolescent mothers and 69% of the families of adult mothers was below the poverty line (p < 0.05). Dropout rate (i.e. rate of those not attending any school) was 36% in the adolescent group and 21% in the adult group. Rate of exclusively breastfeeding during the first 2 months was 40% in adolescents and 62% in adults (p < 0.01). Higher rates of adolescent mothers felt themselves inadequate infant care and with 7% of them experiencing problems in accessing a healthcare institution.

CONCLUSIONS

Properly following up adolescent pregnancies during prenatal and postnatal periods may be helpful for preventing the negative impacts on mother and infant health.

Modifying effect of prenatal care on the association between young maternal age and adverse birth outcomes

OBJECTIVES

The objectives were to investigate the prevalence of adverse birth outcomes according to maternal age range in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2002, and to evaluate the association between maternal age range and adverse birth outcomes using additive interaction to determine whether adequate prenatal care can attenuate the harmful effect of young age on pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was performed in women up to 24 years of age who gave birth to live children in 2002 in the city of Rio de Janeiro. To evaluate adverse outcomes, the exposure variable was maternal age range, and the outcome variables were very preterm birth, low birth weight, prematurity, and low 5-minute Apgar score. The presence of interaction was investigated with the composite variable maternal age plus prenatal care. The proportions and respective 95% confidence intervals were calculated for adequate schooling, delivery in a public maternity hospital, and adequate prenatal care, and the outcomes according to maternal age range. The chi-square test was used. The association between age range and birth outcomes was evaluated with logistic models adjusted for schooling and type of hospital for each prenatal stratum and outcome. Attributable proportion was calculated in order to measure additive interaction.

RESULTS

Of the 40,111 live births in the sample, 1.9% corresponded to children of mothers from 10-14 years of age, 38% from 15-19 years, and 59.9% from 20-24 years. An association between maternal age and adverse outcomes was observed only in adolescent mothers with inadequate prenatal care, and significant additive interaction was observed between prenatal care and maternal age for all the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Adolescent mothers and their newborns are exposed to greater risk of adverse outcomes when prenatal care fails to comply with current guidelines.

Obstetric and perinatal outcomes of teenage pregnancies in Thailand

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine whether, when controlling for confounding factors, there was still an association of adolescence with adverse outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective case control study.

SETTING

Seven Bangkok Metropolitan Administration General Hospitals.

PARTICIPANTS

Charts of all women aged 19 and younger (n = 1,354) having singleton live births in 2004, 2005, and 2006 were retrieved. For the adult group, 1,389 charts of mothers between the ages of 20 and 34 delivering singleton babies were selected using proportionate systematic random sampling. Maternal age was divided into 3 groups: 11-15, 16-19, and 20-34.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Obstetric and perinatal outcomes.

RESULTS

After statistically controlling for known confounding factors, teenage pregnancy was associated with increased risks of anemia (11-15: AOR = 1.81, P < 0.001; 16-19: AOR = 1.48, P < 0.01), very preterm deliveries (11-15: AOR = 2.18, P < 0.05), very low birth weight babies (11-15: AOR = 6.98, P < 0.05; 16-19: AOR = 9.86, P < 0.01), newborn admission to Intensive Care Unit (11-15: AOR = 1.93, P < 0.01; 16-19: AOR = 2.10, P < 0.01), and postpartum complications (11-15: AOR = 3.33, P < 0.01). The rates of cesarean delivery (11-15: AOR 0.58, P < 0.01; 16-19: AOR = 0.57, P < 0.01), operative delivery (11-15: AOR = 0.49, P < 0.01), and oxytocin augmentation (16-19: AOR = 0.66, P < 0.01) were less frequent in younger mothers.

CONCLUSION

Independent of known confounding factors, teenage pregnancy was associated with increased risks of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes requiring clinical and outreach interventions from health care providers.

Filho J, Silva CFD. Gravidez na adolescência e baixo peso ao nascer: existe associação?

OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre gravidez na adolescência (dez a 19 anos) e baixo peso ao nascer. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado em maternidade terciária entre junho de 2000 a junho de 2001. Por sorteio aleatório simples, foram selecionadas mães adolescentes e não adolescentes entrevistadas no primeiro dia após o parto. Aplicou-se a análise multivariada por meio de regressão logística das variáveis implicadas com o baixo peso ao nascer. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionadas 539 duplas (mães e seus respectivos recém-nascidos), sendo 331 (61,4%) mulheres com 20 anos ou mais e 208 (38,5%) abaixo de 20 anos. Entre as adolescentes, 50 bebês (24%) tiveram idade gestacional <37 semanas, enquanto entre as mães acima de 20 anos, 52 (15,7%) eram prematuros (OR 1,58; IC95% 1,00-2,51). Entre as adolescentes, ocorreram 52 (25%) recém-nascidos com peso <2500g e, entre as adultas, 56 (16,9%) tinham baixo peso (OR 1,64; IC95% 1,05-2,56). Entre as que realizaram pré-natal adequado, a ocorrência de baixo peso foi de 12,3% e de 22,1% no grupo cuja assistência foi inadequada. Nesta casuística, a associação encontrada na análise univariada entre baixo peso e mãe adolescente não se manteve na análise multivariada. CONCLUSÕES: Baixo peso ao nascer em gestações na adolescência não pode ser atribuído isoladamente à idade materna.

Is young maternal age really a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome in a canadian tertiary referral hospital?

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome among teenage mothers within a large tertiary referral center in Canada.

METHODS

All nulliparous singleton births in the McGill University Health Centre during 2001-2007 were retrieved using the "MOND" database. Patients were divided according to maternal age: <20 years (teenage), and between 20 and 39 years. Obstetric and neonatal complications were compared.

RESULTS

9744 nulliparous women were included; 250 (2.6%) were teenage and 9494 (97.4%) were 20-39 years old. Teenage mothers tended to deliver earlier (38.0 vs 39.2 weeks gestation, P < 0.001) and had higher rates of extreme prematurity (OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.5-8.1). Babies of teenage mothers had lower birth weights (3014 g vs 3326 g, P < 0.001), higher rates of NICU admission (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5-3.0), congenital anomalies (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2-2.6) and combined perinatal and neonatal mortality (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.9-7.5). Logistic regression analysis showed an association between young maternal age and the risk to have at least one adverse outcome (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Even within a large tertiary referral hospital, teenage mothers carry a greater risk of adverse pregnancy outcome, mainly due to preterm births.

Birth outcomes and risk factors in adolescent pregnancies: results of a Taiwanese national survey

BACKGROUND

This study explores birth outcomes and determinants in adolescent pregnancies, using subjects drawn from the Taiwan Birth Cohort Study (TBCS) from 2005.

METHODS

Through completed interviews and surveys with mothers or other family members, differences in birth outcomes and personal, pregnancy and social profiles of mothers were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 533 adolescent mothers (<20 years old) and 9347 adult mothers (20-34 years old) were included in our study. There was a significantly higher incidence of low birthweight (LBW) (<2500 g, 10.2% vs 5.6%) and premature birth (<37 weeks, 14.8% vs 8.6%) in the adolescent group. When adjusted for covariates in the multiple-variable model, youth remained a risk factor for LBW (OR = 1.50, 95%CI 1.09, 2.07) and premature delivery (OR = 1.42, 95%CI 1.07, 1.89). Age, prenatal care and weight gain during pregnancy are important predictors of LBW and premature birth.

CONCLUSION

Adolescent pregnancy carries a high-risk of LBW and premature birth. Inadequate prenatal care and weight gain during pregnancy are contributing factors that could be improved through strategies of health education, family support and case management.

Do contraceptive choices of Turkish married adolescents differ from those of older women?

OBJECTIVE

To compare contraceptive choices of Turkish married adolescents to those of women of reproductive age and perimenopausal women.

METHODS

Demographic variables, fertility goals and contraceptive choices of adolescents (Group A, n = 95) were compared with those of women of reproductive age (Group B, n = 5224) and perimenopausal women (Group C, n = 2208).

RESULTS

All women in the study group were married and had delivered at least once. A past history of voluntary terminations of pregnancy (TOPs) was reported often, although significantly less so by adolescents (43.1%) than by women belonging to the other two groups (66.5 and 77.4%, respectively). The percentage of women who applied no contraception was significantly higher in Group A (p < 0.05). The rate of use of withdrawal, oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices did not differ significantly between the three groups. The percentage of women who were indecisive about future pregnancy or wanted to have more children was greatest in Group A (87.4, 46.9 and 25.7%, respectively; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The distribution of contraceptive methods used was similar among the three age groups, but the absence of contraception was most frequent in the adolescent group. The adolescents we assessed, being married and having delivered at least once, are a highly selected group and not representative of adolescents in general. Nevertheless, their contraceptive choices did not differ from those of older women. The incidence of TOPs among them was quite high. Minimization of the frequent neglect of application of contraceptive measures by adolescents requires improvement of family planning services for this age group.