Impact of cesarean section on placental transfusion and iron-related hematological indices in term neonates: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Effects of cord clamping timing in at-term elective cesarean section on maternal and neonatal outcomes: a randomized trial

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare the effects of early cord clamping (ECC), delayed cord clamping (DCC), and umbilical cord milking (MC) on maternal and neonatal outcomes in elective cesarean births.

METHODS

We analyzed 204 women with uncomplicated at-term singleton pregnancies, who underwent cesarean birth under regional anesthesia between March and July 2021. The women were randomized into three groups: DCC (clamped 60 s postpartum), ECC (clamped within 15 s postpartum), or MC (clamped after milking five times) group. The neonatal and maternal outcomes of the groups were evaluated.

RESULTS

The duration of the operation was significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the MC group at 50 min (ECC, 60 min; DCC, 60 min), while intraoperative bleeding was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the ECC group at 500 mL (DCC, 300 mL; MC, 225 mL). The rates of anemia and polycythemia significantly differed (P = 0.049) between the three groups. DCC and MC did not negatively affect maternal and neonatal outcomes compared with ECC.

CONCLUSION

DCC and MC are superior to ECC in terms of short-term maternal and neonatal outcomes in cases of elective cesarean birth under regional anesthesia.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anemia among Newborns at Jimma Medical Center, South-west Ethiopia

Background

Newborn anemia is among the most common hematological problems and it can cause asymptomatic or severe to acute life-threatening events. It leads to impairment in brain maturation and development, tissue hypoxia, and stunted growth and then arrested growth if left untreated. The prevalence of anemia among newborns ranges from 23.4-66% in sub-Saharan Africa. But, there is limited information in Ethiopia regarding the prevalence of newborn anemia and its risk factors. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of newborn anemia and its associated factors at Jimma Medical Center (JMC), South-west Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was implemented from January 14 to February 28, 2021, involving 288 full-term newborns by employing consecutive convenient sampling technique for study participant selection. Socio-demographic data and other associated factors were collected through interviews and a review of medical records by a structured questionnaire. Three mL umbilical cord blood samples from each newborn were collected and analyzed for a complete blood count by an automated hematological analyzer. Data were entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 20 for analysis. Binary logistic regression were used to identify the predictors of newborn anemia.

Results

The overall prevalence of anemia among newborns was 26.4%; of them, 65.8%, 25%, and 9.2% were mild, moderate, and severe anemia types, respectively. Maternal vegetable consumption habit (AOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.62) and maternal anemia (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.69) were significantly associated with anemia in newborns.

Conclusion

In general, newborn anemia in this study was a moderate public health problem. Based on this study, early screening of anemia among newborns may reduce further complications. Prevention of maternal anemia during pregnancy by improving their nutritional status especially vegetable consumption had a positive impact on reducing anemia among newborns.

Placental size at gestational week 36: Comparisons between ongoing pregnancies and deliveries

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to compare placental size and placental size relative to fetal size (ratio) in ongoing pregnancies examined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at gestational week 36 with placental size among all deliveries at gestational week 36 during the same time period.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ongoing unselected singleton pregnancies (n = 89) were examined by MRI at median gestational week 36+5 days during 2017-2018, and placental and fetal volumes (cm3 ) were calculated. The placental size and ratio in ongoing pregnancies were compared with placental size and ratio among all deliveries in Norway at gestational week 36 (median gestational week 36+4 days) during 2016-2019 (n = 5582). For comparison of size, we converted volume (cm3 ) in ongoing pregnancies into grams as: cm3  × 1.05 (density of placental and fetal tissue).

RESULTS

In ongoing pregnancies, median placental size was 873  (interquartile range [IQR] 265) grams and median size of all delivered placentas was 613 (IQR 290) grams. Placental size was smaller among the delivered placentas independent of delivery mode: 760 (IQR 387) grams among elective cesarean deliveries (n = 465) and 590 (IQR 189) grams among vaginal deliveries after spontaneous onset of labor (n = 2478). Median ratio in ongoing pregnancies was higher than among deliveries: 0.31 (IQR 0.08) vs 0.21 (IQR 0.08). The ratio was higher in ongoing pregnancies independent of delivery mode: 0.24 (IQR 0.17) among elective cesarean deliveries vs 0.21 (IQR 0.05) among vaginal deliveries after spontaneous onset of labor.

CONCLUSIONS

The placenta is larger in ongoing pregnancies than among deliveries. This finding suggests that placental size decreases during labor and delivery, possibly by transfer of blood to the fetus. Our finding also suggests that reference values of placental size based on delivered placentas are not valid for ongoing pregnancies.

Comparing delayed cord clamping and umbilical cord milking during elective cesarean section for the neonatal outcome

Objectives

to compare between immediate cord clamping, delayed cord clamping, and umbilical cord milking and their effects on hemoglobin and bilirubin level in term infants in cesarean section.

Study design

A randomized clinical trial was conducted from November 2021 to June 2022, including 162 full term pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section at EL-Shatby Maternity University Hospital. They were randomly assigned (1:1:1 ratio) either to immediate cord clamping just after delivery (Group 1) or delayed cord clamping for 30 s (Group 2) or umbilical cord milking 10 times for 10-15 s (Group 3). The primary outcome measures included hemoglobin and hematocrit levels of the newborn at birth and the secondary outcome was bilirubin level measurement at 72 h of life.

Results

one hundred sixty- two newborns were randomized into 3 groups, fifty-four cases in each, and were investigated on hemoglobin and hematocrit levels; five were lost to follow-up and one hundred fifty-seven were tested for bilirubin. Participants among groups had no significant difference regarding demographic and clinical characteristics, regarding the hemoglobin at birth it was significant higher in the umbilical cord milking group (Group 3) through all groups (14.91 ± 0.91 g/dl vs15.38 ± 0.74 g/dl vs 16.56 ± 1.03 g/dl, p value <0.001), regarding hematocrit level at birth it was significant in the umbilical cord milking group (Group 3) through all groups (44.71 ± 2.94 vs 46.48 ± 2.61 vs 49.74 ± 3.26, p value <0.001). On the other hand, bilirubin level after 72 h had no significant different through the 3 groups (8.80(IQR 4.50-17.20), vs 9.70(IQR3.50-14.70), vs 8.50(IQR 3.20-19.50), respectively p value= 0.348).

Conclusion

this study showed that umbilical cord milking 10 times for 10-15 s is more effective than delayed cord clamping for 30 s in enhancing hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in newborn delivered by cesarean section with no significant difference on bilirubin level in the newborn.

Cord management in non-vigorous newborns

Cord management in non-vigorous newborns remains up for debate, as limited studies have validated strategies in this high-risk population. While multiple national and international governing bodies now recommend the routine practice of delayed cord clamping (DCC) in vigorous neonates, these organizations have not reached a consensus on the appropriate approach in non-vigorous neonates.1 Benefits of placental transfusion are greatly needed amongst non-vigorous neonates who are at risk of asphyxiation-associated mortality and morbidities, but the need for immediate resuscitation complicates matters. This chapter discusses the physiological benefits of placental transfusion for non-vigorous neonates and reviews the available literature on different umbilical cord management strategies for this population.

Hemodynamic Changes with Umbilical Cord Milking in Nonvigorous Newborns: A Randomized Cluster Cross-over Trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the hemodynamic safety and efficacy of umbilical cord milking (UCM) compared with early cord clamping (ECC) in nonvigorous newborn infants enrolled in a large multicenter randomized cluster-crossover trial.

STUDY DESIGN

Two hundred twenty-seven nonvigorous term or near-term infants who were enrolled in the parent UCM vs ECC trial consented for this substudy. An echocardiogram was performed at 12 ± 6 hours of age by ultrasound technicians blinded to randomization. The primary outcome was left ventricular output (LVO). Prespecified secondary outcomes included measured superior vena cava (SVC) flow, right ventricular output (RVO), peak systolic strain, and peak systolic velocity by tissue Doppler examination of the RV lateral wall and the interventricular septum.

RESULTS

Nonvigorous infants receiving UCM had increased hemodynamic echocardiographic parameters as measured by higher LVO (225 ± 64 vs 187 ± 52 mL/kg/min; P < .001), RVO (284 ± 88 vs 222 ± 96 mL/kg/min; P < .001), and SVC flow (100 ± 36 vs 86 ± 40 mL/kg/min; P < .001) compared with the ECC group. Peak systolic strain was lower (-17 ± 3 vs -22 ± 3%; P < .001), but there was no difference in peak tissue Doppler flow (0.06 m/s [IQR, 0.05-0.07 m/s] vs 0.06 m/s [IQR, 0.05-0.08 m/s]).

CONCLUSIONS

UCM increased cardiac output (as measured by LVO) compared with ECC in nonvigorous newborns. Overall increases in measures of cerebral and pulmonary blood flow (as measured by SVC and RVO flow, respectively) may explain improved outcomes associated with UCM (less cardiorespiratory support at birth and fewer cases of moderate-to-severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy) among nonvigorous newborn infants.

Development and validation of a prediction model for intrapartum cesarean delivery based on the artificial neural networks approach: a protocol for a prospective nested case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Although intrapartum caesarean delivery can resolve dystocia, it would still lead to several adverse outcomes for mothers and children. The obstetric care professionals need effective tools that can help them to identify the possibility and risk factors of intrapartum caesarean delivery, and further implement interventions to avoid unnecessary caesarean birth. This study aims to develop a prediction model for intrapartum caesarean delivery with real-life data based on the artificial neural networks approach.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a prospective nested case-control design. Pregnant women who plan to deliver vaginally will be recruited in a tertiary hospital in Southwest China from March 2022 to March 2024. The clinical data of prelabour, intrapartum period and psychosocial information will be collected. The case group will be the women who finally have a baby with intrapartum caesarean deliveries, and the control group will be those who deliver a baby vaginally. An artificial neural networks approach with the backpropagation algorithm multilayer perceptron topology will be performed to construct the prediction model.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval for data collection was granted by the Ethics Committee of West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, and the ethical number is 2021 (204). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants and they can withdraw from the study at any time. The results of this study will be published in peer-review journal.

Red blood cell parameters in early childhood: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Red blood cell parameters are frequently used biomarkers when assessing clinical status in newborns and in early childhood. Cell counts, amounts, and concentrations of these parameters change through gestation and after birth. Robust age-specific reference intervals are needed to optimize clinical decision making.

METHODS

The Copenhagen Baby Heart Study (CBHS) and the COMPARE study are prospective cohort studies including red blood cell parameters from 7,938 umbilical cord blood samples and 295 parallel venous blood samples from newborns with follow-up at two and at 14-16 months after birth.

RESULTS

For venous blood at birth, reference intervals for hemoglobin, erythrocytes, and hematocrit were 145-224 g/L, 4.1-6.4 × 10¹²/L, and 0.44-0.64, respectively. Hemoglobin, erythrocytes, and hematocrit were lower at birth in children delivered by prelabor cesarean section compared to vaginal delivery. Conversion algorithms based on term newborns were: venous hemoglobin=(umbilical cord hemoglobin-86.4)/0.39; venous erythrocytes=(umbilical cord erythrocytes-2.20)/0.44; and venous hematocrit=(umbilical cord hematocrit-0.24)/0.45.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents new reference intervals for red blood cell parameters in early childhood, describes the impact of delivery mode, and provide exact functions for converting umbilical cord to venous blood measurements for term newborns. These findings may improve clinical decision making within neonatology and infancy and enhance our clinical understanding of red blood cell parameters for health and diseases in early life.

Umbilical cord milking-benefits and risks

The most common methods for providing additional placental blood to a newborn are delayed cord clamping (DCC) and umbilical cord milking (UCM). However, DCC carries the potential risk of hypothermia due to extended exposure to the cold environment in the operating room or delivery room, as well as a delay in performing resuscitation. As an alternative, umbilical cord milking (UCM) and delayed cord clamping with resuscitation (DCC-R) have been studied, as they allow for immediate resuscitation after birth. Given the relative ease of performing UCM compared to DCC-R, UCM is being strongly considered as a practical option in non-vigorous term and near-term neonates, as well as preterm neonates requiring immediate respiratory support. However, the safety profile of UCM, particularly in premature newborns, remains a concern. This review will highlight the currently known benefits and risks of umbilical cord milking and explore ongoing studies.

Epidemiological Investigation on the Current Practice of Umbilical Cord Clamping in China

OBJECTIVE

Despite known benefits, the timing of and method used for umbilical cord clamping (UCC) in neonates remain controversial in China, as well as internationally. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practice of UCC amongst health care providers in China, as recommended by medical professional organizations.

STUDY DESIGN

A web-based questionnaire on cord clamping practices was administered to midwives, obstetricians, and neonatologists in 126 hospitals from 16 provinces. The provinces were selected from seven different regions of China.

RESULTS

A total of 5,005 (60.5% of eligible respondents) health care providers returned completed questionnaires. The awareness rates for immediate cord clamping (ICC) and delayed cord clamping (DCC) were over 85%, but the implementation rate for DCC was relatively low (ICC 58.3% vs. DCC 41.6%). Most neonates were placed below the introitus (92.8%) during cord clamping and this correlated with the route of delivery. The choice of UCC was impelled by different factors. Benefits for neonates influenced the choice of ICC (50%) and promoting a larger blood volume to stabilize systemic circulation influenced the choice of DCC (92.3%). Majority (91.5%) of respondents acquiesced that it was necessary to develop national clinical guidelines for UCC.

CONCLUSION

The majority of obstetricians, neonatologists, and midwives who participated in this study had a positive perception of DCC. However, this did not translate to daily practice. The practice of UCC is variable and there are no standard guidelines.

KEY POINTS

· The first large-scale epidemiological investigation of umbilical cord ligation is in China.. · The survey included three commonly used umbilical cord clamping methods.. · The respondents included neonatologists..

Influence of Elective Cesarean Calving (with and without Dexamethasone Induction) on the Erythrogram and Iron Serum Profiles in Nellore Calves

Simple Summary

The use of elective cesarean section has become common practice in double muscled breeds of in vitro fertilized cattle and cloned calves, particularly before the onset of labor, when it is known that cesarean section negatively affects neonatal respiration and metabolic adaptation in humans and calves. However, there is a lack of information on the effects of cesarean section on the erythrogram of calves. The objectives of this study are to characterize the hematological profile of Nellore calves born spontaneously or by elective C-section (with or without induction with dexamethasone) and to verify the frequency of anemia in these animals. Our data indicate that in the first day of life there was a decrease in the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin rates, and values of the globular volume regardless of the type of birth; however, the recovery of these hematological values happened faster in zebu calves born spontaneously than in the group born by elective C-section (with or without induction). The results suggest that iron supplementation in the first month of life in Nellore calves that underwent cesarean section could be recommended to prevent the iron deficiency anemia observed in this study.

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the erythrogram and iron serum profiles of neonatal calves born spontaneously or born by elective cesarean section with or without dexamethasone induction. The research was performed on 38 newborn Nellore calves. Three groups of calves were assigned according to the type of birth: calves born by spontaneous vaginal calving (n = 10), calves born by elective cesarean section without inducing labor (n = 14), and calves born by elective cesarean section with labor induction with dexamethasone (n = 14). Blood samples to assess red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), concentration of mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCHC), serum iron (SFe), total capacity to bind iron to transferrin (TIBIC), and transferrin saturation index (TSI) were performed at calving (0, 3, 6, and 12 h of life) and on 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 30 days of life. Regardless of the experimental group (calves born spontaneously, or born by elective cesarean section with or without dexamethasone induction), in the first day of life there was a decrease in the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin rates, and values of the globular volume. In the period of the first 10 days of life, animals from spontaneous vaginal delivery quickly recovered values of erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume, whereas animals born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced) did not recover as quickly in their rates of hemoglobin and packed cell volume values. In calves born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced), it was observed in their period between 10 and 30 days of life that the MCV and MCH were reduced by passing the presenting microcytic hypochromic when compared with calves obtained by spontaneous vaginal delivery. In the period between 10 and 30 days of life, the levels of SFe and TSI in animals born by elective C-section (induced and uninduced) are significantly lower. The differences in the erythrogram values between Nellore calves born spontaneously and those by elective C-section with or without induction must be considered consequent to the process of neonatal adaptation to extrauterine life. Iron supplementation in the first month of life in calves from cesarean could be recommended to prevent anemia of this iron deficiency.

Cesarean delivery on maternal request and common child health outcomes: A prospective cohort study in China

Background

Cesarean delivery vs vaginal delivery was reported to increase the risks of childhood obesity, pneumonia, anemia, and neurobehavioral disorders, but few studies were able to deal with the confounding biases associated with medical conditions indicating cesareans. This prospective cohort study aims to investigate the associations of non-medically indicated cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR) with these child health outcomes.

Methods

Among 17 748 liveborn infants whose mothers (primiparas) participated in a randomized controlled trial on micronutrient supplementation and pregnancy outcomes during 2006-2009 in 5 rural counties in Hebei Province, China, 6972 singletons born by full-term spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD) and 3626 by CDMR were extracted for the assessments of obesity (weight-for-height z-score >3) and pneumonia (self-reported) at 1.5-5 years in 2011. Some children were further randomly selected from these two groups for the assessments of anemia (hemoglobin <110 g/L, 2341 SVD and 2417 CDMR) and neurobehavioral disorders (raw score of Child Behavior Checklist larger than the 90th percentile of the normative sample, 1257 SVD and 1060 CDMR).

Results

Compared with SVD, CDMR was associated with increased risks of obesity (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.14-1.75, P = 0.002) and anemia (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.28-2.12, P < 0.001), but not with the risk of pneumonia (aOR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.94-1.45, P = 0.17) or neurobehavioral disorders (aORs varied from 0.82 to 0.91, P > 0.05) in childhood.

Conclusions

Cesarean delivery, independent of cesarean indications, is likely associated with childhood obesity and anemia, indicating a need to keep pregnant women informed, especially those seeking CDMR, a need to explore possible improvement on obstetric service, and even a need for main stakeholders to reach a compromise in making a cesarean decision.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00133744 and NCT01404416

Effects of spontaneous first breath on placental transfusion in term neonates born by cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The role of umbilical cord management in placental transfusion in cesarean section (CS) requires clarification. The spontaneous first breath may be more important than the timing of cord clamping for placental transfusion in neonates born by CS.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of cord clamping after the first spontaneous breath on placental transfusion in neonates born by CS.

METHODS

We recruited women with a live singleton pregnancy at ≥37.0 weeks of gestation admitted for CS. The interventions performed, such as physiologic-based cord clamping (PBCC), intact-umbilical cord milking (I-UCM), 30-s delay in cord clamping (30-s DCC), and 60-s delay in cord clamping (60-s DCC), were noted and placed in a sealed envelope. The sealed envelope was opened immediately before delivery to perform randomization.

RESULTS

A total of 123 infants were eligible for evaluation. Of these, 31, 30, 32, and 30 were assigned to the PBCC, I-UCM, 30-s DCC, and 60-s DCC groups, respectively. The mean hemoglobin (Hb) and mean hematocrit (Hct) were significantly higher in the 60-s DCC group than in the PBCC group (p = 0.028 and 0.019, respectively), but no difference was noted among the I-UCM, 30-s DCC, and PBCC groups at 36 h of age. Further, no significant differences were observed in the mean Hb and mean Hct among the I-UCM, 60-s DCC, and 30-s DCC groups. Peak total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels were higher in the 60-s DCC group than in the I-UCM and PBCC groups (p = 0.017), but there was no difference between the 60-s DCC and 30-s DCC groups during the first week of life. The phototherapy requirement was higher in 60-s DCC than in IUCM and 30-sDCC (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that PBCC, 30-s DCC, and I-UCM in neonates born by CS had no significant differences from each other on placental transfusion. The Hb and Hct in the neonates were higher after 60-s DCC than after PBCC.

Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors Among Term Newborns in Nekemte Specialized Hospital, Western Ethiopia

Background

Anemia is a global public health problem that affects approximately one-third of the global population. Infants and children are the ones to develop both short-term and long-term devastating complications from anemia. Although anemia is a very big public health concern, newborns, especially in developing countries, are usually overlooked and undiagnosed.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among term newborns in Nekemte Specialized Hospital, Western Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study involving 278 newborns was conducted from October to November, 2020 with an interview-based questionnaire that included maternal socio-demographic and obstetrics characteristics, newborn’s weight and sex. The data were analyzed with SPSS version 20. The prevalence of newborn anemia was shown in percentage and as a pie-chart. Bivariate analysis and binary logistic regression were used to identify the predictors of anemia in the term newborn.

Results

The overall prevalence of newborn anemia in the hospital was 29.1%. Maternal anemia (AOR: 3.95, 95% C.I.: 1.97–7.92), delivery by cesarean section (AOR: 4.17, 95% C.I.: 1.89–9.20), vaginal bleeding during pregnancy (AOR: 5.43, 95% C.I.: 1.60–18.39), and maternal failure to take iron-folate supplements during pregnancy (AOR: 2.17, 95% C.I.:1.07–4.41) were factors associated with newborn anemia.

Conclusion

Anemia among newborns in the hospital was a moderate public health problem. Policy makers should consider maternal health education and appropriate health interventions to reduce the problem. In addition, further longitudinal studies are needed to identify specific causes of newborn anemia in order to prevent the possible complications.

Iron deficiency during the first 1000 days of life: are we doing enough to protect the developing brain?

Iron is essential for the functioning of all cells and organs, most critically for the developing brain in the fundamental neuronal processes of myelination, energy and neurotransmitter metabolism. Iron deficiency, especially in the first 1000 days of life, can result in long-lasting, irreversible deficits in cognition, motor function and behaviour. Pregnant women, infants and young children are most vulnerable to iron deficiency, due to their high requirements to support growth and development, coupled with a frequently inadequate dietary supply. An unrecognised problem is that even if iron intake is adequate, common pregnancy-related and lifestyle factors can affect maternal-fetal iron supply in utero, resulting in an increased risk of deficiency for the mother and her fetus. Although preterm birth, gestational diabetes mellitus and intrauterine growth restriction are known risk factors, more recent evidence suggests that maternal obesity and delivery by caesarean section further increase the risk of iron deficiency in the newborn infant, which can persist into early childhood. Despite the considerable threat that early-life iron deficiency poses to long-term neurological development, life chances and a country's overall social and economic progress, strategies to tackle the issue are non-existent, too limited or totally inappropriate. Prevention strategies, focused on improving the health and nutritional status of women of reproductive age are required. Delayed cord clamping should be considered a priority. Better screening strategies to enable the early detection of iron deficiency during pregnancy and early-life should be prioritised, with intervention strategies to protect maternal health and the developing brain.

Umbilical cord milking versus delayed cord clamping in term infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) is recommended for healthy term infants. However, the effectiveness of umbilical cord milking (UCM) in term infants remains unknown. The study aimed to compare the effects of UCM versus DCC on term infants.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted which included individual and clustered RCTs comparing UCM with DCC for infants born at ≥37 weeks of gestation.

RESULTS

Three trials (650 term infants) were included. Compared with DCC, UCM was associated with higher hemoglobin levels at 6 weeks after birth [infants, 621; mean difference, 0.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.05-0.29] and had no statistical differences in hemoglobin levels at birth, serum bilirubin levels at 48 h after birth, or hematocrit levels at 48 h after birth.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that UCM might be as beneficial as DCC in term infants, however, further RCTs are required to accurately assess the outcomes.

Effects of delayed cord clamping on neonatal jaundice, phototherapy and early hematological status in term cesarean section

Background

Delayed cord clamping in full-term neonates is widely recommended, while in practice, it is rarely implemented in cesarean section due to the fear of neonatal jaundice and excessive maternal blood loss. The optimal timing of cord clamping remains uncertain. This study was to fully evaluate the effects of delayed cord clamping on short-term hematological status and jaundice in term neonates delivered by cesarean section.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 796 women, who were allocated into the early cord clamping group (n = 377) and the delayed cord clamping group (n = 419). The latter group was further divided into two subgroups (30–60 s, 61–120 s).

The outcomes were neonatal transcutaneous bilirubin levels on 0 to 5 days of life and the rate of phototherapy. For neonates who had blood tests on the first three days of life, their hemoglobin and hematocrit were compared among groups.

Results

Compared with the early cord clamping group, delayed cord clamping merely increased the transcutaneous bilirubin level of neonates on the day of birth rather than that on the following five days. The heel peripheral blood sample size of 1–3 days in the early cord clamping group was 61, 25 and 33, and in the delayed cord clamping group was 53, 46 and 32, respectively. Delayed cord clamping at 30–60 s resulted in the higher neonatal hemoglobin level on day 3 and an increased rate of neonatal polycythemia, without a higher rate of phototherapy. Delayed cord clamping beyond 60 s did not further improve hematological status in term neonates born by cesarean section.

Conclusion

In cesarean section, delayed cord clamping for 30–60 s improved the early hematological status of term neonates without the enhanced requirement of phototherapy for neonatal jaundice.

Behavioral consequences at 5 y of neonatal iron deficiency in a low-risk maternal-infant cohort

BACKGROUND

Iron is critical to the developing brain, but fetal iron accretion is compromised by several maternal and pregnancy-related factors. Little consideration has been given to the long-term neurologic consequences of neonatal iron deficiency, especially in generally healthy, low-risk populations.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the association between neonatal iron deficiency and neurologic development at 2 and 5 y of age.

DESIGN

We measured umbilical cord serum ferritin concentrations in the prospective maternal-infant Cork BASELINE (Babies after SCOPE: Evaluating the Longitudinal Impact Using Neurological and Nutritional Endpoints) Birth Cohort. Lifestyle and clinical data were collected from 15 weeks of gestation to 5 y of age. Standardized neurologic assessments were performed at 2 y [Bayley Scales of Infant Development/Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL)] and 5 y (Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test/CBCL).

RESULTS

Among 697 maternal-infant pairs, median (IQR) cord ferritin concentrations were 200.9 (139.0, 265.8) µg/L; 8% had neonatal iron deficiency (ferritin <76 µg/L). Using fully adjusted models, there was no association between neonatal iron deficiency and cognitive or behavioral outcomes at 2 or 5 y. We conducted an a priori sensitivity analysis in 306 high-risk children, selected using known risk factors for neonatal iron deficiency (smoking/obesity/cesarean section delivery/small-for-gestational age birth). In this high-risk subgroup, children with iron deficiency at birth (12%) had similar cognitive outcomes, but the behavioral assessments showed higher internalizing [9.0 (5.3, 12.0) compared with 5.0 (3.0, 10.0), P = 0.006; adjusted estimate (95% CI): 2.8 (0.5, 5.1), P = 0.015] and total [24.5 (15.3, 40.8) compared with 16.0 (10.0, 30.0), P = 0.009; adjusted estimate (95% CI): 6.6 (0.1, 13.1), P = 0.047] problem behavior scores at 5 y compared with those born iron sufficient.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated lasting behavioral consequences of neonatal iron deficiency in high-risk children from our generally healthy, low-risk maternal-infant cohort. Although larger investigations are warranted, this study provides strong association data to suggest that interventions and strategies targeting the fetal and neonatal period should be prioritized for the prevention of iron deficiency and associated neurologic consequences.

Delayed cord clamping in healthy term infants: More harm or good?

It is recommended to delay cord clamping in healthy term infants for at least 60- and 180-s in high- and limited-resource environments, as delayed cord clamping lowers the incidence of anemia and iron deficiency and improves neurodevelopment. There are improvements in hemodynamic parameters such as peripheral arterial oxygen saturation, heart rate, cardiac output, and cerebral oxygenation. Historically, delayed cord clamping caused a higher rate of hyperbilirubinemia and phototherapy, but more recent evidence suggests this may no longer be the case. In limited-resource environments delayed cord clamping may reduce anemia and iron deficiency potentially improving neurodevelopmental outcomes. The use of delayed cord clamping in newborn infants with intrauterine growth restriction or monochorionic twins is limited and further evidence is needed before it can be formally recommended.

Effect of Maternal Nutritional Status and Mode of Delivery on Zinc and Iron Stores at Birth

Zinc and iron deficiencies among infants aged under 6 months may be related with nutrient store at birth. This study aimed to investigate the association between zinc and iron stores at birth with maternal nutritional status and intakes during pregnancy. 117 pregnant women were enrolled at the end of second trimester and followed until delivery. Clinical data during pregnancy, including pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and at parturition were collected from medical record. Zinc and iron intakes were estimated from a food frequency questionnaire. Serum zinc and ferritin were determined in maternal blood at enrollment and cord blood. Mean cord blood zinc and ferritin were 10.8 ± 2.6 µmol/L and 176 ± 75.6 µg/L, respectively. Cord blood zinc was associated with pre-pregnancy BMI (adj. ß 0.150; p = 0.023) and serum zinc (adj. ß 0.115; p = 0.023). Cord blood ferritin was associated with pre-pregnancy BMI (adj. ß -5.231; p = 0.009). Cord blood zinc and ferritin were significantly higher among those having vaginal delivery compared to cesarean delivery (adj. ß 1.376; p = 0.007 and 32.959; p = 0.028, respectively). Maternal nutritional status and mode of delivery were significantly associated with zinc and iron stores at birth. Nutrition during preconception and pregnancy should be ensured to build adequate stores of nutrients for infants.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Intact Cord Milking versus Immediate Cord Clamping in Term Infants Born by Elective Cesarean Section

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated whether intact umbilical cord milking (UCM) is more effective than immediate cord clamping (ICC) in enhancing placental transfusion after elective cesarean delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

In a randomized trial, volume of placental transfusion was assessed by Δ hematocrit (Hct) between neonatal cord blood and capillary heel blood at 48 hours of age, corrected for the change in body weight.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in cord blood mean Hct values at birth (UCM, 44.5 ± 4.8 vs. ICC, 44.9 ± 4.2%, p = 0.74). Conversely, at 48 hours of age, the UCM group had significantly higher capillary heel Hct values (UCM, 53.7 ± 5.9 vs. ICC, 49.8 ± 4.6%, p < 0.001), supporting a higher placental transfusion volume (Δ Hct, UCM 9.2 ± 5.2 vs. ICC 4.8 ± 4.7, p < 0.001), despite comparable neonatal body weight decrease (UCM, -7.3 vs. ICC, -6.8%, p = 0.77).

CONCLUSION

Higher Δ Hct between cord blood at birth and capillary heel blood at 48 hours of age, corrected for the change in body weight, suggests that intact UCM is an efficacious and safe procedure to enhance placental transfusion among neonates born via elective cesarean delivery.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03668782.

Association of cesarean delivery on maternal request with neonatal iron stores at birth

BACKGROUND

Cesarean has been suggested to decrease neonatal iron stores at birth. However, few studies have differentiated the effect induced by cesarean operation from that related to medical indications.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to estimate the association of cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR), a subtype of cesarean without any medical indications, with a spectrum of indicators reflecting iron stores at birth.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study involved 288 term singleton neonates born to women without any complications by CDMR or spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD). Measured hematological iron-related indicators in cord blood included serum ferritin (SF), hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), and hematocrit (Hct). Blood flow volume (BFV) of cord vein when clamping was measured to reflect placental transfusion status during birth. Quantile regression was used to assess the association between delivery mode and the iron store indicators.

RESULTS

CDMR (n = 154) versus SVD group (n = 134) had lower conditional median cord blood SF (-34.80; 95% CI -64.70, -4.90 μg/L; P = 0.02), Hb (-10.67; 95% CI -18.87, -2.47 g/L; P = 0.01), RBC (-0.30; 95% CI -0.48, -0.12 ×10¹²/L; P = 0.002), and Hct (-3.06; 95% CI -6.08, -0.04 %; P = 0.047). The BFV was higher in CDMR than SVD group at the 25th centile (0.51; 95% CI 0.19, 0.82 ml/cm³; P = 0.002), median (0.49; 95% CI 0.04, 0.95 ml/cm³; P = 0.03) and the 75th centile (0.54; 95% CI 0.06, 1.03 ml/cm³; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The cesarean operation per se likely hampered placental transfusion from mother to neonate and decreased iron stores at birth.

Effect of cesarean section on initiation of breast feeding: Findings from 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey

Background

Early initiation of breast feeding has great importance for both mothers and newborns. Despite, recommendations for exclusive and early initiation of breast feeding within one hour of birth, Ethiopia reports that 58% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed. Cesarean deliveries may affect timing of breastfeeding initiation, establishment of milk supply and infant breastfeeding interest compared to vaginal deliveries. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of cesarean delivery on breastfeeding initiation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 7115 study participants from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey (EDHS). Both descriptive and analytical statistical analysis was employed. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify anyassociations between variables. Odds ratios with its corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. During multivariable analysis, variables with p-value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Results

The prevalence of late initiation of breast feeding among women with their last live birth was 25.03% (95%CI; 20.5–32.2). Significant factors associated with late initiation of breastfeeding were cesarean delivery [AOR = 4.06 (95%CI, 2.66–6.2)], primipara mother [AOR = 1.45(95%CI, 1.13–1.7)], and having an unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 1.35(95%CI, 1.1–1.65)]. Positively associated with early initiation of breastfeeding was the mother’s age, for women between 20–34 years-old. This association, reported as a negative association of late initiation of breast feeding was [AOR = 0.77(95%CI, 0.61–0.98)].

Conclusion

Cesarean delivery adversely affects the initiation of breast feeding. Cesarean delivery, unplanned pregnancy, and being primiparous, were associated with late initiation of breastfeeding. Women between the ages of 20–34 years of age had a reduced chance of late initiation of breastfeeding. Providing counseling regarding the strategy and importance of early initiation of breast feeding, could have crucial importance for the mother and her newborn.

Umbilical cord management strategies at cesarean section

AIM

To evaluate the effect of different strategies to improve placental transfusion in cesarean section (CS).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of all singleton term pregnancies that underwent CS over 6 months. Delayed umbilical cord clamping (dUCC) was defined as one done at least 60 s after birth. Umbilical cord milking (UCM) was an option when waiting 60 s was deemed unsafe. The two strategies were compared against early (<60 s) umbilical cord clamping (eUCC) without milking. Neonatal hematocrit (Hct) at 48 h was the main outcome variable.

RESULTS

Of the 223 CS in the cohort, 100 were performed in labor and 123 were elective. dUCC was performed in 137, eUCC without milking in 53 and UCM in 33 cases. Neonatal Hct was higher in CS carried out in labor versus in elective CS (59.76% ± 6.17 vs 56.91% ± 5.95, P = 0.001). At multivariate analysis, CS performed in labor (coefficient [coeff.] 3.44, confidence interval [CI] 1.75-5.13, P < 0.001), UCM (coeff. 3.88, CI 1.61-6.14, P = 0.001) and birth weight (coeff. -0.003, CI -0.005 to -0.001, P = 0.001) were the only variables independently associated with neonatal Hct. In elective CS, UCM led to higher neonatal Hct (61.5% ± 5.5) compared to eUCC without milking (55.1% ± 5.5) and dUCC (56.4% ± 5.7, P = 0.001), while in CS performed in labor there were no significant differences among the placental transfusion strategies.

CONCLUSION

In term CS, neonatal Hct is significantly higher when the CS is performed in labor or with UCM. In elective CS, UCM could be a valid option to favor placental transfusion.

Determinants and effects of fluid status changes in caesarean delivered neonates

AIM

Evidence suggests that caesarean section is associated with a reduced placental transfusion and poor iron-related haematological indices, both in cord and peripheral blood, compared with vaginal delivery. We assessed determinants and effects of fluid status changes on placental transfusion in neonates delivered by elective (ElCD) and emergency (EmCD) caesarean section.

METHODS

Placental transfusion was estimated by ∆ haematocrit (Hct) increase from birth to 48 hours of life, accounting for contemporaneous ∆ body weight decrease, in 143 women/infant pairs, 62 who underwent ElCD and 81 EmCD, respectively.

RESULTS

Cord blood Hct levels at birth of ElCS neonates were significantly lower than those of EmCD neonates (44.58 + 4.87vs 49.93 + 4.29, P = .01). At 48 hours of life, capillary heel Hct levels of ElCD and of EmCD neonates were comparable. ElCD had a higher ∆ body weight decrease (ElCD -7.25 ± 1.74% vs EmCD -6.31 ± 2.34% [P: .011]) and ∆ Hct increase ([ElCD + 5.93 ± 4.92 vs EmCD + 3.59 ± 5.29, [P: .011]). In a linear regression model analysis, gestational age in ElCD neonates had a significant effect on the differences in arterial cord blood Hct, body weight at birth and body weight decrease at 48 hours after birth.

CONCLUSION

Early-term surgical delivery is a determinant of transient dilutional anaemia in ElCD neonates, lacking neuroendocrine response of labour and delivery.

A randomized controlled study of immediate versus delayed umbilical cord clamping in infants born by elective caesarean section

BACKGROUND

Delayed umbilical cord clamping is associated with greater haemoglobin concentration and iron storage between 3 and 6 months of life and with less need of blood transfusion and lower incidence of neonatal hypotension compared to early umbilical cord clamping.

METHODS

The aim was to test the hypothesis that delayed cord clamping is better than early cord clamping in term infants born by elective caesarean section. Group A was subjected to immediate cord clamping while in the Group B, the umbilical cord was clamped 1 min after birth. Primary aim was revealed the difference in pre-ductal saturation between two groups while secondary aim was investigating the difference in HR, Ht, bilirubin and glycaemia. Pre-ductal SpO₂ and HR were recorded at 5 and 10 min after birth, T was analysed 10 min after birth, glycaemia was revealed at 120 min while Ht and bilirubin were collected at 72 h.

RESULTS

132 newborns were enrolled in the study and allocated in ratio 1:1 to group A or B. Delayed cord clamping did not improve SpO_2, HR and T values compared to immediate cord clamping (p > 0,05). However, Group B showed greater haematocrit and bilirubin values at 72 h compared to Group A (56,71 ± 6663 vs 51,56 ± 6929; p < 0,05 and 8,54 ± 2,90 vs 7,06 ± 2,76; p < 0,05). Glycaemia value did not differ between two groups (p > 0,05).

CONCLUSIONS

Group B did not reveal any differences in SpO₂, HR, T and glycaemia compared to Group A. Group B showed greater values of haematocrit and bilirubin but without need of phototherapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Umbilical Cord Clamping: What Are the Benefits; NCT03878602. Registered 18 March 2019 retrospectively registered.

Association of maternal BMI during early pregnancy with infant anemia: a large Chinese birth cohort

BACKGROUND

Infant anemia is prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. Maternal body mass index (BMI) is associated with serum ferritin in cord blood, but as yet has not been linked to infant anemia. The objective of this study was to examine the association of maternal BMI during early pregnancy with infant hemoglobin levels and anemia at 6 and 12 months in a Chinese birth cohort.

METHODS

The prospective cohort included 17,193 mother-infant pairs. Maternal weight and height prior to 20 gestational weeks as well as infant hemoglobin at 6 and 12 months were measured following standard procedures, and BMI was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. Women were categorized into underweight, normal weight (reference), overweight, and obesity. Infant anemia was defined as hemoglobin < 11.0 g/dl. Fractional polynomial regression was used to examine the relation between maternal BMI and infant hemoglobin, joinpoint regression to identify breakpoints, and logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs).

RESULTS

In the cohort, 1160 (6.8%) were anemic at 6 months and 904 (5.3%) at 12 months. An inverse U-shaped relation of maternal BMI with infant hemoglobin was found at 6 months, at their maximum at maternal BMI of 22.4 kg/m2, and a similar relationship found again at 12 months. Maternal obesity rather than underweight was associated with an increased risk of anemia for infants at 6 months (adjusted OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.02, 1.88), but not at 12 months. Maternal anemia during mid-pregnancy augmented the risk at 6 months (adjusted OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.14, 7.46), but did not mediate the association (Z = - 1.102, P = 0.270).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal BMI during early pregnancy is correlated with infant hemoglobin in an inverse U-shaped profile, and obesity increases infant anemia risk that is aggravated by maternal anemia during pregnancy. This study enriched the epidemiological evidence on the adverse effect of high maternal BMI on long-term health of offspring. Optimizing maternal weight in obstetric care is necessary to improve offspring health.

The effect of delayed umbilical cord clamping on cord blood gas analysis in vaginal and caesarean-delivered term newborns without fetal distress: a prospective observational study

OBJECTIVE

To determine variations in cord blood gas (CBG) parameters after 3-minute delayed cord clamping (DCC) in vaginal deliveries (VDs) and caesarean deliveries (CDs) at term without fetal distress.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

University hospital.

SAMPLE

CBG from 97 VDs and 124 CDs without fetal distress.

METHODS

Comparison of paired arterial-venous CBG parameters drawn at birth from the unclamped cord and after 3-minutes DCC for VDs and CDs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Base excess, bicarbonate, haematocrit and haemoglobin from both arterial and venous cord blood, lactate, neonatal outcomes, partial pressure of oxygen (pO2 ), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2 ), pH, and postpartum haemorrhage.

RESULTS

Arterial cord blood pH, bicarbonate ( HCO 3 - , mmol/l), and base excess (BE, mmol/l) decreased significantly after 3-minute DCC both in VDs (pH = 7.23 versus 7.27; P < 0.001; HCO 3 -  = 23.3 versus 24.3; P = 0.004; BE = -5.1 versus -2.9; P < 0.001) and CDs (pH = 7.28 versus 7.34; P < 0.001; HCO 3 -  = 26.2 versus 27.2; P < 0.001; BE = -1.5 versus 0.7; P < 0.001). After 3-minute DCC, pCO2 increased in CDs only (57 versus 51; P < 0.001), whereas lactate increased more in CDs compared with VDs (lactate, +1.1 [0.9, 1.45] versus +0.5 [-0.65, 2.35]; P = 0.01). Postpartum maternal haemorrhage, neonatal maximum bilirubin concentration, and need for phototherapy were similar between the two groups. Newborns born by CD more frequently required postnatal clinical monitoring or admission to a neonatal intensive care unit.

CONCLUSIONS

After 3-minute DCC, the acid-base status shifted towards mixed acidosis in CDs and prevalent metabolic acidosis in VDs. CDs were associated with a more pronounced increase in arterial lactate, compared with VDs.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

By 3-minute DCC, acid-base status shifts towards mixed and metabolic acidosis in caesarean and vaginal delivery, respectively.

Implementing Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping in Cesarean Birth Using a Novel Method: A Pilot Study of Feasibility and Safety

INTRODUCTION

Although delayed cord clamping (DCC) is regarded as the standard of care for all vigorous newborns, those born via cesarean birth are less likely to be afforded this option, especially for longer than 30 to 60 seconds. This pilot study was undertaken to determine whether removal of the placenta before cord clamping to allow for DCC of at least 3 minutes during term, uncomplicated cesarean birth is feasible and without apparent safety issues in order to support a large prospective study on the benefits of this method.

METHODS

Women having a term, uncomplicated cesarean birth who consented to the study were enrolled. Safety was assessed by comparing estimated maternal blood loss, newborn Apgar scores, temperatures, transcutaneous bilirubin levels, need for phototherapy, and neonatal intensive care unit admissions with a matched historical control group of women whose newborns had immediate cord clamping. Feasibility was measured by evaluating staff and maternal comfort with the intervention and by the ability to complete the protocol steps.

RESULTS

Seventeen women consented to participate. The protocol was successfully completed in 94% of births. There were no differences in maternal and neonatal safety outcome measures between groups. There was high comfort level with the protocol among staff, and there was universal maternal satisfaction.

DISCUSSION

This method of DCC in cesarean birth appears feasible and safe in this small pilot study and was associated with high maternal satisfaction and clinician comfort. Major organizations such as the American College of Nurse-Midwives and the World Health Organization have called for DCC of up to 3 to 5 minutes in all births, and this simple method has the potential to reach that goal in cesarean birth with minimal apparent risk. A large randomized controlled trial is warranted to determine the neonatal and maternal benefits and safety of this technique compared with a 30-to-60-second delay.

Safety of 6-week Neonatal Triple-combination Antiretroviral Postexposure Prophylaxis in High-risk HIV-exposed Infants

BACKGROUND

Combination antiretroviral drug regimens are increasingly preferred for neonatal postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) among HIV-exposed infants with high-risk of transmission. We evaluated the adverse events associated with the use of zidovudine (ZDV)/lamivudine (3TC)/nevirapine (NVP) for neonatal PEP during the first 6 weeks of life.

METHODS

A prospective cohort of non-breast-fed HIV-exposed infants was conducted at 5 clinical sites in Thailand. Study population included 100 high-risk HIV-exposed infants (maternal HIV RNA > 50 copies/mL prior to delivery or received antiretroviral therapy less than 12 weeks) and 100 low-risk HIV-exposed neonates. High-risk infants received ZDV/3TC/NVP for 6 weeks whereas low-risk HIV-exposed neonates received a 4-week regimen of ZDV. Complete blood count, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase were assessed at birth, 1, 2 and 4 months of life.

RESULTS

From October 2015 to November 2017, 200 infants were enrolled, of which 18.5% had low birth weight < 2500 g. The proportion of infants with anemia grade 2 or higher at 1 and 2 months of life between ZDV/3TC/NVP and ZDV prophylaxis was 48.5% vs 32.3% (P=0.02); nevertheless, severe anemia (grade 3) was not significantly different; 9.2% vs 10.2% (P=0.81), respectively. At 1 month old, infants on ZDV/3TC/NVP prophylaxis had significantly higher grade 2 anemia versus infants on ZDV alone (33.0% vs 13.4%; P=0.001); however, no difference was observed at 2 months old. No differences in neutropenia or hepatotoxicity between infant prophylactic regimens were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Triple antiretroviral neonatal PEP with ZDV/3TC/NVP for 6 weeks in high-risk HIV-exposed infants did not significantly increase the risk of short-term toxicity compared with ZDV-monotherapy prophylaxis.

BLOOD CELLS PROFILE IN UMBILICAL CORD OF LATE PRETERM AND TERM NEWBORNS

OBJECTIVE

To describe the hematological profile in cord blood of late preterm and term newborns and compare blood indices according to sex, weight for gestational age and type of delivery.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with late preterm and term newborns in a second-level maternity. Multiple gestation, chorioamnionitis, maternal or fetal hemorrhage, suspected congenital infection, 5-minute Apgar <6, congenital malformations, and Rh hemolytic disease were excluded. Percentiles 3, 5,10, 25, 50, 75, 90, 95 and 97 of blood indices were calculated for both groups.

RESULTS

2,662 newborns were included in the sample, 51.1% males, 7.3% late preterms, 7.8% small for gestational age (SGA) and 81.2% adequate for gestational age (AGA). Mean gestational age was 35.6±1.9 and 39.3±1.0 weeks, respectively, for premature and term neonates. The erythrocytes indices and white blood cells increased from 34-36.9 to 37-41.9 weeks. Basophils and platelets remained constant during gestation. Premature neonates presented lower values ​​of all blood cells, except for lymphocytes and eosinophils. SGA neonates presented higher values ​​of hemoglobin, hematocrit and lower values of leukocytes, neutrophils, bands, segmented, eosinophils, monocytes and platelets. Male neonates presented similar values ​​of erythrocytes and hemoglobin and lower leukocytes, neutrophils, segmented and platelets. Neonates delivered by C-section had lower values ​​of red blood cells and platelets. Chronic or gestational hypertension induced lower number of platelets.

CONCLUSIONS

Blood cells increased during gestation, except for platelets and basophils. SGA neonates had higher hemoglobin and hematocrit values and lower leukocytes. Number of platelets was smaller in male SGAs, born by C-section and whose mothers had hypertension.

Delayed Cord Clamping versus Early Cord Clamping in Elective Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Delaying cord clamping is recommended in order to assure placental transfusion. However, the evidence on cord management in elective cesarean section (CS) is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To compare delayed cord clamping (DCC) with early cord clamping (ECC) with regard to postnatal adaptation in neonates born through elective CS.

METHODS

All neonates born ≥39 weeks' gestation born through elective CS were assigned to either the DCC or the ECC arm at a 1:1 ratio according to a computer-generated, randomized sequence. The primary outcome was the hematocrit at day 2 of life. Secondary outcomes included: preductal oxygen saturation and heart rate during the first 10 min of life; transcutaneous bilirubin at day 3; and neonatal blood pressures in the first 3 days of life. Additional outcomes included: time to first spontaneous breath; temperature at admission to normal nursery; weight at discharge; and maternal blood losses.

RESULTS

Eighty neonates were randomized to the DCC (n = 40) or the ECC (n = 40) arm. The hematocrit at day 2 was significantly higher in the DCC arm than in the ECC arm (mean difference: 6%; 95% CI 3-8; p < 0.0001). The secondary outcome measures were not statistically different between the two arms. No infants needed phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia during their hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Delaying cord clamping beyond 60 s increases the hematocrit at day 2 in neonates born through elective CS, without affecting maternal blood losses. Our findings suggest that DCC should be recommended in elective CS, but further studies are warranted to assess long-term outcomes.

Iron deficiency, its epidemiological features and feeding practices among infants aged 12 months in Qatar: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the magnitude of anaemia, iron deficiency (ID), iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and to explore epidemiological features of ID and feeding practices among infants aged 12 months in Qatar.

SETTING

Well baby clinics in 14 randomly selected primary healthcare centres covering all geographical areas on the national level.

PARTICIPANTS

Three hundred and six (163 male and 143 female) infants of all nationalities were enrolled. Mothers were asked to complete a predesigned interview questionnaire and infants were blood tested for anaemia, ID and IDA.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Cut-off point used to diagnose anaemia was haemoglobin <11.1 g/dL, and to diagnose ID, serum ferritin <6 ug/L with normal C reactive protein.

RESULTS

Prevalence of anaemia was 23.5%, ID was 9.2% and IDA was 7.8%. ID was more prevalent among non-Qatari infants compared with Qatari (10.9% vs1.7%, p=0.029), more prevalent among infants born to housewives and to families of low income (p≤0.05). With regard to feeding practice, ID was higher in infants who continued breastfeeding until the age of 1 year and among those who never took infant formula milk (p≤0.05). Mothers who received infant feeding counselling had less ID occurrence among their infants compared with their counterparts who did not receive such counselling (4.2%vs13.4%, p=0.005).

CONCLUSION

Although ID and IDA among infants in Qatar are less prevalent compared with many developing countries, still further efforts are needed for improvement towards more developed countries. Efforts should be contextualised and should target the key epidemiological features with special emphasis on infant feeding and infant feeding counselling to mothers.

Italian Recommendations for Placental Transfusion Strategies

At delivery, if the cord is not clamped, blood continues to pass from the placenta to the newborn during the first minutes of life, allowing the transfer of 25-35 ml/kg of placental blood to the newborn, depending on gestational age, the timing of cord clamping, the position of the infant at birth, the onset of respiration, and administration of uterotonics to the mother. However, deriving benefits from delayed cord clamping (DCC) are not merely related to placental-to-fetal blood transfusion; establishing spontaneous ventilation before cutting the cord improves venous return to the right heart and pulmonary blood flow, protecting the newborn from the transient low cardiac output, and systemic arterial pressure fluctuations. Recent meta-analyses showed that delayed cord clamping reduces mortality and red blood cell transfusions in preterm newborns and increases iron stores in term newborns. Various authors suggested umbilical cord milking (UCM) as a safe alternative when delayed cord clamping is not feasible. Many scientific societies recommend waiting 30-60 s before clamping the cord for both term and preterm newborns not requiring resuscitation. To improve the uptake of placental transfusion strategies, in 2016 an Italian Task Force for the Management of Umbilical Cord Clamping drafted national recommendations for the management of cord clamping in term and preterm deliveries. The task force performed a detailed review of the literature using the GRADE methodological approach. The document analyzed all clinical scenarios that operators could deal with in the delivery room, including cord blood gas analysis during delayed cord clamping and time to cord clamping in the case of umbilical cord blood banking. The panel intended to promote a more physiological and individualized approach to cord clamping, specifically for the most preterm newborn. A feasible option to implement delayed cord clamping in very preterm deliveries is to move the neonatologist to the mother's bedside to assess the newborn's clinical condition at birth. This option could safely guarantee the first steps of stabilization before clamping the cord and allow DCC in the first 30 s of life, without delaying resuscitation. Contra-indications to placental transfusion strategies are clinical situations that may endanger mother 's health and those that may delay immediate newborn's resuscitation when required.

Delayed Cord Clamping Increased the Need for Phototherapy Treatment in Infants With AB0 Alloimmunization Born by Cesarean Section: A Retrospective Study

Objective: To compare the effect of Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC) to Immediate Cord Clamping (ICC) on phototherapy treatment in a cohort of cesarean-delivered newborns with AB0-alloimmunization. Study Design: In a retrospective cohort study neonates with Gestational Age (GA) ≥ 35 weeks and diagnosed with AB0-alloimmunization before implementation of DCC (ICC group) were compared with neonates born after implementation (DCC group). The primary outcome was the need for phototherapy. Secondary outcomes included hospital stay, readmission rate, need for extra intravenous fluids, maximum bilirubin concentration, and hours of life at bilirubin peak. We used regression models to adjust for weight loss, type of feeding, birth weight, and gestational age. Results: In total 336 neonates were included, of which 192 neonates in the ICC group and 144 in the DCC group. There were no differences in basic characteristics between the two groups except for birth weight (ICC 3193 ± 468 g vs. DCC 3053 ± 446 g, p = 0.01) and GA (ICC 38.2 ± 1 weeks of GA, vs. DCC 37.9 ± 1 weeks of GA; p = 0.01). When adjusted for confounding factors, after implementation of DCC, significantly more infants with AB0 alloimmunization needed phototherapy (22.4% vs. 36.8%, RR 1.61 CI: 1.15-2.28; p = 0.006; Number Needed to Harm 7), needed to stay longer in hospital (20.3% vs. 30.5%, RR 1.53 CI: 1.05-2.23; p = 0.03). The maximum bilirubin was higher (11.4 ± 4.0 mg/dl vs. 12.9 ± 3.5 mg/dl, p < 0.001) and occurred later [74 (67-92) hours vs. 84 (70-103) hours; p = 0.04]. There was no difference in the need for intravenous fluids (1.6% vs. 4.9%; not significant) and readmissions (1.6% vs. 3.5%; not significant). Conclusion: Infants with AB0 alloimmunization needed more often phototherapy and were admitted longer after implementation of DCC policy. Further studies are needed to see whether the benefit of DCC outweighs the increased morbidity, admission days, and related hospital costs.

Caesarean delivery and anaemia risk in children in 45 low- and middle-income countries

Caesarean delivery (CD) may reduce placental transfusion and cause poor iron-related haematological indices in the neonate. We aimed to explore the association between CD and anaemia in children aged <5 years utilising data from Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 2005 and 2015 in 45 low- and middle-income countries (N = 132,877). We defined anaemia categories based on haemoglobin levels, analysed each country's data separately using propensity-score weighting, pooled the country-specific odds ratios (ORs) using random effects meta-analysis, and performed meta-regression to determine whether the association between CD and anaemia varies by national CD rate, anaemia prevalence, and gross national income. Individual-level CD was not associated with any anaemia (OR 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.86, 1.06]; I²  = 40.2%), mild anaemia (OR 0.91, 95% CI [0.81, 1.02]; I²  = 24.8%), and moderate/severe anaemia (OR 0.97, 95% CI [0.85, 1.11]; I²  = 47.7%). CD tended to be positively associated with moderate/severe anaemia in upper middle-income countries and negatively associated with mild anaemia in lower middle-income countries; however, meta-regression did not detect any variation in the association between anaemia and CD by the level of income, CD rate, and anaemia prevalence. In conclusion, there was no evidence for an association between CD and anaemia in children younger than 5 years in low- and middle-income countries. Our conclusions were consistent when we looked at only countries with CD rate >15% with data stratified by individual-level wealth status and type of health facility of birth.

Breastfeeding and Red Meat Intake Are Associated with Iron Status in Healthy Korean Weaning-age Infants

The present study investigated risk factors for iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) during late infancy, including feeding type and complementary feeding (CF) practice. Healthy term Korean infants (8-15 months) were weighed, and questionnaires regarding delivery, feeding, and weaning were completed by their caregivers. We also examined levels of hemoglobin, serum iron/total iron-binding capacity, serum ferritin, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Among 619 infants, ID and IDA were present in 174 infants (28.1%) and 87 infants (14.0%), respectively. The 288 infants with exclusively/mostly breastfeeding until late infancy (BFL) were most likely to exhibit ID (53.1%) and IDA (28.1%). The risk of ID was independently associated with BFL (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 47.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 18.3-122.9), male sex (aOR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.2-2.9), fold weight gain (aOR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.5-4.6), and perceived inadequacy of red meat intake (aOR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0-2.7). In addition to the risk factors for ID, Cesarean section delivery (aOR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1-3.2) and low parental CF-related knowledge (aOR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.5-5.2) were risk factors for IDA. In conclusion, prolonged breastfeeding and perceived inadequacy of red meat intake may be among the important feeding-related risk factors of ID and IDA. Therefore, more meticulous education and monitoring of iron-rich food intake, such as red meat, with iron supplementation or iron status testing during late infancy if necessary, should be considered for breastfed Korean infants, especially for those with additional risk factors for ID or IDA.

Limitations and opportunities of whole blood bilirubin measurements by GEM premier 4000®

Background

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia has traditionally been screened by either total serum bilirubin or transcutaneous bilirubin. Whole blood bilirubin (TwB) by the GEM Premier 4000® blood gas analyzer (GEM) is a relatively new technology and it provides fast bilirubin results with a small sample volume and can measure co-oximetry and other analytes. Our clinical study was to evaluate the reliability of TwB measured by the GEM and identify analytical and clinical factors that may contribute to possible bias.

Methods

440 consecutive healthy newborn samples that had plasma bilirubin ordered for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia screening were included. TwB was first measured using the GEM, after which the remainder of the blood was spun and plasma neonatal bilirubin was measured using the VITROS 5600® (VITROS).

Results

62 samples (14%) were excluded from analysis due to failure in obtaining GEM results. Passing-Bablok regression suggested that the GEM results were negatively biased at low concentrations of bilirubin and positively biased at higher concentrations relative to the VITROS results (y = 1.43x-61.13). Bland-Altman plots showed an overall negative bias of the GEM bilirubin with a wide range of differences compared to VITROS. Both hemoglobin concentration and hemolysis affected the accuracy of the GEM results. Clinically, male infants had higher mean bilirubin levels, and infants delivered by caesarean section had lower hemoglobin levels. When comparing the number of results below the 40th percentile and above the 95th percentile cut-offs in the Bhutani nomogram which would trigger discharge or treatment, GEM bilirubin exhibited poor sensitivity and poor specificity in contrast to VITROS bilirubin.

Conclusions

An imperfect correlation was observed between whole blood bilirubin measured on the GEM4000® and plasma bilirubin on the VITROS 5600®. The contributors to the observed differences between the two instruments were specimen hemolysis and the accuracy of hemoglobin measurements, the latter of which affects the calculation of plasma-equivalent bilirubin. Additionally, the lack of standardization of total bilirubin calibration particularly in newborn specimens, may also account for some of the disagreement in results.

Impact of maternal, antenatal and birth-associated factors on iron stores at birth: data from a prospective maternal-infant birth cohort

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Low serum ferritin concentrations at birth, which reflect neonatal iron stores, track through to early childhood and have been associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes. We aimed to identify maternal, antenatal and birth-associated factors that influence iron stores at birth in a prospective maternal-infant birth cohort.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

In a population-based, longitudinal, birth cohort in Ireland, 413 maternal-infant dyads with prospectively collected lifestyle and clinical data from 15 weeks' gestation had umbilical cord serum ferritin concentrations measured. Regression models were developed to identify independent factors associated with cord ferritin concentrations.

RESULTS

Median (IQR) cord ferritin concentrations were 185.7 (131.7, 385.5) μg/l, and 8% (n=33) of infants had low iron stores (ferritin <76 μg/l) at birth. Maternal obesity (BMI ⩾30 kg/m²) at 15 weeks' gestation (adj. estimate (95% confidence interval (CI)): -66.4 (-106.9, -25.9) μg/l, P<0.0001) and delivery by caesarean section (-38.8 (-70.2, -7.4) μg/l, P=0.016) were inversely associated with cord ferritin concentrations. In addition, maternal smoking at 15 weeks' gestation (adj. odds ratio (95% CI): 2.9 (1.2, 7), P=0.020) and being born small-for-gestational age (3.4 (1.3, 8.9), P=0.012) were associated with an increased risk of low iron stores (ferritin <76 μg/l) at birth.

CONCLUSIONS

We have identified a number of potentially modifiable lifestyle factors that influence iron stores at birth, with the important role of overall maternal health and lifestyle during pregnancy highlighted. Public health policies targeting women of child-bearing age to improve nutrition and health outcomes should be prioritised for the health of the next generation.

Elective caesarean: does delay in cord clamping for 30 s ensure sufficient iron stores at 4 months of age? A historical cohort control study

OBJECTIVE

To compare iron stores in infants born after elective caesarean section (CS) and a 30 s delay of umbilical cord clamping with those born vaginally after early (≤10 s) or delayed (≥180 s) cord clamping.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study with historical control.

SETTING

Swedish county hospital.

POPULATION

64 infants born after elective CS were compared with a historical control of 166 early clamped and 168 delayed clamped after vaginal birth.

METHODS

Blood and iron status were measured in blood samples collected at birth, 48-96 hours after birth, 4 and 12 months of age.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Ferritin at 4 months of age was the primary outcome, second outcome measures were other indicators of iron status, and haemoglobin, at 4 and 12 months of age, as well as respiratory distress at 1 and 6 hours after birth.

RESULTS

At 4 months infants born by elective CS had better iron status than those born vaginally subjected to early cord clamping, shown by higher adjusted mean difference of ferritin concentration (39 µg/L (95% CI 10 to 60)) and mean cell volume (1.8 fL (95% CI 0.6 to 3.0)); and lower levels of transferrin receptors (-0.39 mg/L (95% CI -0.69 to -0.08)). No differences were seen between infants born after elective CS and delayed clamped vaginally born infants at 4 months. No differences were found between groups at 12 months of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Waiting to clamp the umbilical cord for 30 s after elective CS results in higher iron stores at 4 months of age compared with early cord clamping after vaginal birth, and seems to ensure iron status comparable with those achieved after 180 s delayed cord clamping after vaginal birth.

Maternal Obesity Affects Inflammatory and Iron Indices in Umbilical Cord Blood

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of maternal obesity and gestational weight gain across pregnancy on fetal indices of inflammation and iron status.

STUDY DESIGN

Eighty-five healthy term newborns delivered via elective cesarean were categorized by 2 maternal body mass index (BMI) thresholds; above or below 30 kg/m(2) or above or below 35 kg/m(2). Umbilical cord plasma levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, ferritin, and hepcidin were assayed. Cytokines released by phytohemagglutinin-stimulated umbilical cord mononuclear cells (MNCs) were assayed.

RESULTS

Maternal class II obesity, defined as BMI of 35 kg/m(2) and above, predicted higher C-reactive protein and TNF-α in umbilical cord plasma (P < .05 for both), and also proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) from stimulated MNC (P < .05 for all). The rise in plasma TNF-α and MNC TNF-α was not linear but occurred when the threshold of BMI 35 kg/m(2) was reached (P < .005, P < .06). Poorer umbilical cord iron indices were associated with maternal obesity. When ferritin was low, IL-6 was higher (P < .04), but this relationship was present primarily when maternal BMI exceeded 35 kg/m(2) (P < .03). Ferritin was correlated with hepcidin (P < .0001), but hepcidin was unrelated to either maternal BMI or inflammatory indices.

CONCLUSIONS

Class II obesity and above during pregnancy is associated with fetal inflammation in a threshold fashion. Although maternal BMI negatively impacted fetal iron status, hepcidin, related to obesity in adults, was related to iron status and not obesity in fetuses. Pediatricians should be aware of these relationships.

The impact of caesarean section on breastfeeding initiation, duration and difficulties in the first four months postpartum

Background

The caesarean section (c-section) rate in Canada is 27.1 %, well above the 5–15 % of deliveries suggested by the World Health Organization in 2009. Emergency and planned c-sections may adversely affect breastfeeding initiation, milk supply and infant breastfeeding receptivity compared to vaginal deliveries. Our study examined mode of delivery and breastfeeding initiation, duration, and difficulties reported by mothers at 4 months postpartum.

Methods

The All Our Babies study is a prospective pregnancy cohort in Calgary, Alberta, that began in 2008. Participants completed questionnaires at <25 and 34–36 weeks gestation and approximately 4 months postpartum. Demographic, mental health, lifestyle, and health services data were obtained. Women giving birth to singleton infants were included (n = 3021). Breastfeeding rates and difficulties according to mode of birth (vaginal, planned c-section and emergency c-section) were compared using cross-tabulations and chi-square tests. A multivariable logistic regression model was created to examine the association between mode of birth on breastfeeding duration to 12 weeks postpartum.

Results

More women who delivered by planned c-section had no intention to breastfeed or did not initiate breastfeeding (7.4 % and 4.3 % respectively), when compared to women with vaginal births (3.4 % and 1.8 %, respectively) and emergency c-section (2.7 % and 2.5 %, respectively). Women who delivered by emergency c-section were found to have a higher proportion of breastfeeding difficulties (41 %), and used more resources before (67 %) and after (58 %) leaving the hospital, when compared to vaginal delivery (29 %, 40 %, and 52 %, respectively) or planned c-sections (33 %, 49 %, and 41 %, respectively). Women who delivered with a planned c-section were more likely (OR = 1.61; 95 % CI: 1.14, 2.26; p = 0.014) to discontinue breastfeeding before 12 weeks postpartum compared to those who delivered vaginally, controlling for income, education, parity, preterm birth, maternal physical and mental health, ethnicity and breastfeeding difficulties.

Conclusions

We found that when controlling for socio-demographic and labor and delivery characteristics, planned c-section is associated with early breastfeeding cessation. Anticipatory guidance around breastfeeding could be provided to women considering a planned c-section. As well, additional supportive care could be made available to lactating women with emergency c-sections, within the first 24 hours post birth and throughout the early postpartum period.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12884-016-0876-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Implementing Family-Centered Cesarean Birth

Cesarean birth is recognized as a physical and psychological stressor for many women. Maternity practices during cesarean birth should meet women's needs, while maintaining safety, to optimize the experience. Family-centered cesarean birth is a package of interventions that encourages a woman to participate in choosing interventions that would be helpful when undergoing a planned or unplanned cesarean birth. Included in family-centered cesarean birth is implementation of skin-to-skin care in the operating room for neonates who appear term and healthy. The process of attempting to implement family-centered cesarean birth at one academic center is presented, including steps for implementation, benefits, challenges, and areas for continued improvement and research. This article is part of a special series of articles that address midwifery innovations in clinical practice, education, interprofessional collaboration, health policy, and global health.

Association of cesarean delivery with anemia in infants and children in 2 large longitudinal Chinese birth cohorts

BACKGROUND

Cesarean delivery may reduce placental-fetal transfusion and thus increase the risk of early childhood anemia compared with vaginal delivery, but this notion has not been carefully studied in longitudinal cohorts.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess the association of cesarean delivery with anemia in infants and children in 2 longitudinal Chinese birth cohorts from different socioeconomic settings.

DESIGN

Cohort 1 was recruited from 5 counties in northeastern China and cohort 2 from 21 counties or cities in southeastern China. Cohort 1 involved 17,423 infants born during 2006-2009 to mothers with early pregnancy baseline hemoglobin concentrations ranging from 100 to 177 g/L, whereas cohort 2 involved 122,777 children born during 1993-1996 to mothers with baseline hemoglobin concentrations ranging from 60 to 190 g/L. The main outcomes were anemia at 6 and 12 mo in cohort 1 and at 58 mo in cohort 2. Multiple logistic regressions were used to estimate adjusted ORs of anemia for cesarean compared with vaginal delivery. Stratified analyses were performed by pre- and postlabor cesarean delivery and according to maternal baseline hemoglobin concentration (≤109, 110-119, 120-129, and ≥130 g/L).

RESULTS

Cesarean delivery was not associated with anemia at 6 mo in cohort 1 (adjusted OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 0.93, 1.19); however, cesarean delivery was associated with increased anemia at 12 mo in cohort 1 (adjusted OR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.37) and at 58 mo in cohort 2 (adjusted OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.15). The positive associations for anemia at 12 and 58 mo were consistent across maternal hemoglobin subgroups and persisted for cesarean delivery subtypes.

CONCLUSION

Cesarean delivery is likely associated with anemia in children, which suggests a possible need for exploring changes in obstetric care that might prevent anemia in cesarean-delivered children.