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Stoke R, Crawford K, Jardine L, Kumar S. Maternal perception of decreased fetal movements is independent of infant size. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:79-86. [PMID: 38237047 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetal movements are often used as a surrogate for fetal wellbeing. Previous research suggests a link between maternal perception of decreased fetal movements (DFM) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal presentation with DFM and birth-weight centile categories at a large Australian perinatal center. METHODS This was a retrospective study of non-anomalous singleton infants born at ≥ 28 + 0 weeks' gestation between January 2016 and October 2020 at the Mater Mothers' Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. The primary outcome was the rate of DFM according to birth-weight centile category. Maternal demographic characteristics included age, body mass index, ethnicity, parity, medical conditions and previous stillbirth. The association between DFM and birth-weight centile was evaluated using adjusted multinomial regression models. Robust standard errors were used to account for clustering at the patient level. Wald tests and Akaike's and Bayesian information criteria were used to evaluate models. RESULTS Over the 5-year study period, 45 042 women met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 6690 (14.9%) women presented with DFM. Of the DFM cohort, 80.9% (5411/6690) had only one presentation with DFM, and 19.1% (1279/6690) had two or more presentations. The overall stillbirth rate was similar in women with DFM (0.1% (8/6690)) and those without DFM (0.1% (50/38 352)). There was no association between DFM (either single or multiple) and infant birth-weight centile. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that presentation with DFM is not associated with infant size. Clinicians should consider additional risk factors and the overall clinical context when deciding appropriate management. DFM is not necessarily an indication for an immediate or urgent ultrasound scan to assess fetal size. © 2024 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Stoke
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - K Crawford
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - L Jardine
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - S Kumar
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- NHMRC Stillbirth Centre for Research Excellence, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Nahian A, Mahomed K. Decreased fetal movements - An audit of predictors and an evaluation of management based on a locally developed flow chart. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 290:67-73. [PMID: 37738889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Decreased fetal movements (DFM) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to look at the risk factors associated with DFM and outcomes of women who presented with and without DFM and outcomes before and after the implementation of a locally developed flow chart based on an evidence-based guideline. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective audit of 1165 women ≥ 28 weeks' gestation with a singleton pregnancy who presented with concerns regarding DFM. We compared labor and neonatal outcomes to 4706 in a control group who did not present with concerns regarding FM. We also compared the same pregnancy outcomes before and after the implementation of hospital guidelines on the management of DFM. Statistical analyses were performed primarily using Chi square analysis and relative risk. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS 1165 women presented 1645 times with DFM. Women presenting with DFM were younger, (82.8% vs 79.0%, p= <0.01 were 20 to 34-years old), tended to have a higher BMI (42.9% vs 34.4%, p=<0.001 with BMI ≥ 30) and were more likely to have mental health conditions (31.1% vs 24.2%, p=<0.01). There was no difference in the composite neonatal outcome including stillbirth, 5 min APGAR < 7 and Special Care Nursery (SCN) admission between DFM and control (22.9 vs 24.8% respectively, P = 0.18). There was no difference in perinatal outcomes pre- and post-implementation of the hospital guidelines on DFM management. Women presenting with DFM were more likely to have an induction (40.7% vs 29.9% p=<0.01) but not more likely to have a caesarean section (30.9% vs 28.8% respectively, p = 0.16). There were increasing rates of IOL with increasing number of presentations for DFM. Adoption of and adherence to locally developed guidelines was an opportunity to ensure all clinicians provide consistent advice on management and timing of birth for women presenting with DFM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antara Nahian
- Department of Obstetrics, Ipswich Hospital. 1 Chelmsford Ave, Ipswich, Queensland 4305, Australia.
| | - Kassam Mahomed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ipswich Hospital and University of Queensland, Chelmsford Avenue, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia.
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Santacroce L, Palmirotta R, Bottalico L, Charitos IA, Colella M, Topi S, Jirillo E. Crosstalk between the Resident Microbiota and the Immune Cells Regulates Female Genital Tract Health. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1531. [PMID: 37511906 PMCID: PMC10381428 DOI: 10.3390/life13071531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract (FGT) performs several functions related to reproduction, but due to its direct exposure to the external environment, it may suffer microbial infections. Both the upper (uterus and cervix) and lower (vagina) FGT are covered by an epithelium, and contain immune cells (macrophages, dendritic cells, T and B lymphocytes) that afford a robust protection to the host. Its upper and the lower part differ in terms of Lactobacillus spp., which are dominant in the vagina. An alteration of the physiological equilibrium between the local microbiota and immune cells leads to a condition of dysbiosis which, in turn, may account for the outcome of FGT infection. Aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most frequent infections, and can lead to severe complications in reproduction and pregnancy. The use of natural products, such as probiotics, polyphenols, and lactoferrin in the course of FGT infections is an issue of current investigation. In spite of positive results, more research is needed to define the most appropriate administration, according to the type of patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Raffaele Palmirotta
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Bottalico
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, "Alexander Xhuvani" University of Elbasan, 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | | | - Marica Colella
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Skender Topi
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, "Alexander Xhuvani" University of Elbasan, 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
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Turner JM, Cincotta R, Chua J, Gardener G, Petersen S, Thomas J, Lee-Tannock A, Kumar S. Decreased fetal movements-the utility of ultrasound to identify infants at risk and prevent stillbirth is poor. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:100782. [PMID: 36280144 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a paucity of evidence, it is widely accepted that a perceived reduction in fetal movements is associated with an increased risk of stillbirth and poor obstetrical outcome. Consequently, many international guidelines recommend urgent ultrasound assessment of fetal well-being in women presenting with decreased fetal movements. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare rates of abnormal ultrasound findings reflective of fetal compromise between women presenting with decreased fetal movements and gestation-matched controls in the third trimester. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study performed at the Mater Mothers' Hospital in Brisbane between 2017 and 2020. We undertook propensity score matching analysis comparing abnormal ultrasound parameters in women with singleton, nonanomalous pregnancies presenting with decreased fetal movements after 28 weeks' gestation. The primary outcome was a composite of any abnormal scan parameter: umbilical artery pulsatility index >95th centile, middle cerebral artery pulsatility index <5th centile, cerebroplacental ratio <10th centile, estimated fetal weight <10th centile for gestation, middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity >1.5 multiples of the median, or deepest vertical pocket of amniotic fluid <2 or >8 cm. RESULTS After propensity score matching, the study cohort comprised 1466 cases and 2207 controls. The rate of the primary composite outcome was not significantly different between the 2 cohorts (20.2% vs 21.3%; P=.42). There were 30 new cases of small-for-gestational-age detected in the decreased fetal movements cohort, giving a number needed to scan of 48 in the decreased fetal movements group to detect 1 case of small-for-gestational-age. However, the frequency of the composite outcome was higher (13.0% vs 5.4%) at the final scan before birth in women with multiple decreased fetal movement presentations. Despite this, there was no significant difference in clinical outcomes between the 2 cohorts. CONCLUSION Ultrasound abnormalities are not increased in women with decreased fetal movements compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Turner
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Turner and Kumar); Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Turner and Kumar)
| | - Rob Cincotta
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Jacqueline Chua
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Glenn Gardener
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Scott Petersen
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Joseph Thomas
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Alison Lee-Tannock
- Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar)
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Turner and Kumar); Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Turner and Kumar); Mater Centre for Maternal Fetal Medicine, Mater Mothers' Hospital, Brisbane, Australia (Drs Cincotta, Chua, Gardener, Petersen, Thomas, Tannock, and Kumar); National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centre for Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia (Dr Kumar).
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5
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Impey L, Abadia-Cuchi N. Reduced fetal movements: Time to move on? BJOG 2023; 130:546-548. [PMID: 36655366 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Impey
- Department of Fetal Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Natalia Abadia-Cuchi
- Servicio de Ginecologia y Obstetricia, Hospital Clinico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
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Marques-Fernandez L, Sharma S, Mannu U, Chong HP. Impact of Covid-19 on attendances for a 1st episode of reduced fetal movements: A retrospective observational study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253796. [PMID: 34170973 PMCID: PMC8232461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prior studies have demonstrated an increased stillbirth rate. It was suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted on attendances for reduced fetal movements. Thus, we sought to ascertain the impact of the pandemic on attendances for reduced fetal movements (RFM) in our unit, ultrasound provision for reduced fetal movements, and the stillbirth rate. Methods This was a single site retrospective cohort study involving all women complaining of a 1st episode of reduced fetal movements between 01/03/2020-30/04/2020 (COVID) to 01/03/2019-30/04/2019 (Pre-COVID). Data were retrieved from computerised hospital records and statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism and SPSS. Results 22% (179/810) of women presented with a 1st episode of reduced fetal movements Pre-COVID compared to 18% (145/803) during COVID (p = 0.047). Primiparous women were significantly over-represented in this population with a 1.4-fold increase in attendances during COVID (67% vs 48%, p = 0.0005). Neither the total stillbirth rate nor the stillbirth rate amongst women who presented with reduced fetal movements changed during COVID. Ultrasound provision was not impacted by COVID with 95% of the scans performed according to local guidelines, compared to Pre-COVID (74%, p = 0.0001). Conclusions There is a significant decrease in 1st attendances for reduced fetal movements during COVID-19 pandemic. Primiparous women were 1.4 times more likely to attend with RFM. Women should be reassured that COVID-19 has not resulted in a decreased provision of care for RFM, and has not impacted on the stillbirth rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Marques-Fernandez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Swati Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Una Mannu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - Hsu Phern Chong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
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7
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Turner JM, Flenady V, Ellwood D, Coory M, Kumar S. Evaluation of Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women With Decreased Fetal Movements. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e215071. [PMID: 33830228 PMCID: PMC8033440 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.5071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Stillbirth is a devastating pregnancy outcome with far-reaching economic and psychosocial consequences, but despite significant investment, a screening tool for identifying those fetuses at risk for stillbirth remains elusive. Maternal reporting of decreased fetal movements (DFM) has been found to be associated with stillbirth and other adverse perinatal outcomes. OBJECTIVE To examine pregnancy outcomes of women presenting with DFM in the third trimester at a tertiary Australian center with a clear clinical management algorithm. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used data on all births meeting the inclusion criteria from 2009 through 2019 at Mater Mothers' Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. This is a tertiary center and Australia's largest maternity hospital. All singleton births without a known congenital anomaly after 28 weeks' gestation were included. Among 203 071 potential participants identified from the hospital database, 101 597 individuals met the eligibility criteria. Data analysis was performed from May through September 2020. EXPOSURE Presentation to hospital with DFM after 28 weeks gestation. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome of this study was the incidence of stillbirth. Multivariate analysis was undertaken to determine the association between DFM and stillbirth, obstetric intervention, and other adverse outcomes, including being born small for gestational age (SGA) and a composite adverse perinatal outcome (at least 1 of the following: neonatal intensive care unit admission, severe acidosis [ie, umbilical artery pH <7.0 or base excess -12.0 mmol/L or less], 5-minute Apgar score <4, or stillbirth or neonatal death). The hypothesis being tested was formulated prior to data collection. RESULTS Among 101 597 women with pregnancies that met the inclusion criteria, 8821 (8.7%) presented at least once with DFM and 92 776 women (91.3%) did not present with DFM (ie, the control population). Women presenting with DFM, compared with those presenting without DFM, were younger (mean [SD] age, 30.4 [5.4] years vs 31.5 [5.2] years; P < .001), more likely to be nulliparous (4845 women [54.9%] vs 42 210 women [45.5%]; P < .001) and have a previous stillbirth (189 women [2.1%] vs 1156 women [1.2%]; P < .001), and less likely to have a previous cesarean delivery (1199 women [13.6%] vs 17 444 women [18.8%]; P < .001). During the study period, the stillbirth rate was 2.0 per 1000 births after 28 weeks' gestation. Presenting with DFM was not associated with higher odds of stillbirth (9 women [0.1%] vs 185 women [0.2%]; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.54; 95% CI, 0.23-1.26, P = .16). However, presenting with DFM was associated with higher odds of a fetus being born SGA (aOR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.03-1.27; P = .01) and the composite adverse perinatal outcome (aOR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.02-1.27; P = .02). Presenting with DFM was also associated with higher odds of planned early term birth (aOR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.15-1.38; P < .001), induction of labor (aOR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.53-1.74; P < .001), and emergency cesarean delivery (aOR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.09-1.28; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The presence of DFM is a marker associated with increased risk for a fetus. This study's findings of a nonsignificantly lower rate of stillbirth among women with DFM may be reflective of increased community awareness of timely presentation to their obstetric care clinician when concerned about fetal movements and the benefits of tertiary level care guided by a clear clinical management protocol. However, DFM was associated with increased odds of an infant being born SGA, obstetric intervention, early term birth, and a composite of adverse perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Turner
- Mater Research, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Vicki Flenady
- Mater Research, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- National Heath and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Ellwood
- National Heath and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Coory
- National Heath and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Mater Research, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- National Heath and Medical Research Council Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Smith V, Muldoon K, Brady V, Delaney H. Assessing fetal movements in pregnancy: A qualitative evidence synthesis of women's views, perspectives and experiences. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:197. [PMID: 33691666 PMCID: PMC7944914 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-03667-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Raising awareness of the importance of fetal movements (FMs) and advising women on the appropriate action to take if they experience reduced FMs, is important for minimising or avoiding adverse perinatal outcomes. To gain insight and understanding of women’s perspectives of assessing FMs in pregnancy, we conducted a qualitative evidence synthesis. Methods A qualitative evidence synthesis using thematic synthesis was conducted. Studies were eligible if they included pregnant women who were at least 20 weeks gestation and reported qualitative data from women on assessing FMs in pregnancy. MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Social Science Citation Index, from inception to July 2020, were searched. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed by at least two reviewers using an Evidence for Policy and Practice Information (EPPI)-Centre quality assessment tool. Data synthesis, using the Thomas and Harden framework, involved line by line coding of extracted data, establishing descriptive themes, and determining analytical themes. Confidence in the findings was assessed using GRADE CER-Qual. Results Nine studies, involving 2193 women, were included in the review. The methodological quality of the studies was overall generally high. The synthesis revealed three dominant themes, and seven sub-themes that reflected women’s perspectives of assessing FMs in pregnancy. These were; 1) How women engage with FMs, with subthemes of informal engagement, formal engagement, and strategies to stimulate FMs; 2) ‘ … like a feather inside my belly’ - articulating and describing FMs, with sub-themes of sensations associated with FMs and timing and frequency of FMs; and 3) FMs and help/health seeking, with sub-themes of information sources and interacting with healthcare professionals. Confidence in the findings was either high or moderate, although two findings were rated low confidence and one very low. Conclusion This qualitative evidence synthesis reveals that women informally engage with FMs during pregnancy. Women commonly adopt strategies to stimulate FMs when concerned. The use of the internet was a common source of obtaining information regarding FMs. Women require better support when contacting healthcare professionals about FMs. As only three of the nine included studies were exclusively qualitative in design, further qualitative studies exploring women’s perspective of assessing FMs in pregnancy are required. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-03667-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Smith
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Kathryn Muldoon
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vivienne Brady
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hannah Delaney
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dublin Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.,Health Research Board-Trials Methodology Research Network (HRB-TMRN), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Reduced fetal movements at term, low-risk pregnancies: is it associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes? Ten years of experience from a single tertiary center. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 301:987-993. [PMID: 32198623 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05516-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the outcomes of low-risk pregnancies complicated by isolated reduced fetal movements (RFM) at term. STUDY DESIGN The study population were patients at term, with singleton, low-risk, pregnancies who presented to our obstetric-triage and delivered during the subsequent 2 weeks. The study group included patients with an isolated complaint of RFM (RFM group). The control group included patients without history of RFM (control group). The pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes were compared between the groups. Severe and mild composites of adverse neonatal outcomes were defined. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify independent association with adverse neonatal outcomes. RESULTS Among the 13,338 pregnant women, 2762 (20.7%) were included in the RFM group and 10,576 (79.3%) in the control group. The RFM group had higher rates of nulliparity (p < 0.001), and smoking (p < 0.001). At admission, the RFM group had higher rates of IUFD (p < 0.001). The RFM group had higher rates of Cesarean delivery due to non-reassuring fetal monitor (p < 0.001), and mild adverse neonatal outcomes (p = 0.001). RFM was associated with mild adverse outcome independent of background confounders (aOR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-2.6, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Patients presented with isolated RFM at term had higher rates of IUFD at presentation and significant adverse outcomes at delivery.
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Kapaya H, Almeida J, Karouni F, Anumba D. Management of reduced fetal movement: A comparative analysis of two audits at a tertiary care clinical service. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 248:128-132. [PMID: 32203823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Reduced fetal movement (RFM) is a commonly presenting worrisome complaint, both for mothers and attending clinicians. The aim of this study was to review the management of RFM before and following the implementation of new hospital guideline and to determine pregnancy outcomes following single vs repeated consultations with complaints of RFM. We also compared the standards in our old and new trust guidelines against published guidance from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cohort study was conducted between June -November 2016 (audit 1) and July- December 2018 (audit 2). All women with a non-anomalous singleton pregnancy, attending the Day Assessment Unit of the Jessop Wing Hospital Sheffield UK with a primary presentation of perceived RFM after 24 weeks of gestation were included. The electronic maternity database was used to collect information regarding their presentations and pregnancy outcomes. Adherence to the old and the new local guidelines for the respective epochs of the assessment were reviewed by two independent observers using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) 11 tool. RESULTS A total of 1775 women presented with RFM during the two study periods. Of these, 632 attended with more than 1 presentation of RFM (35.6 %). There were 3 stillbirths; all diagnosed at the first presentation with RFM. In the second audit, prevalence of RFM increased by 10 %, CTG documentation improved by 1% and ultrasound scan requests decreased by 6.6 %. Women with more than one episode of RFM were more likely to be younger, smokers, nulliparous, have raised BMI, had a higher IOL rate and had more ultrasound scans compared to those with one episode. However, neonatal outcome, onset of labour and mode of delivery remained unchanged between the two groups. While the RCOG guideline was superior to both (old and new) guidelines, the overall scores increased in the new guideline by 22 %. CONCLUSION After implementing the new guideline, the re-audit demonstrates a reduction in the number of requested ultrasound scans without any compromise on the perinatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habiba Kapaya
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK.
| | - Joana Almeida
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK.
| | - Faris Karouni
- University of Sheffield, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK.
| | - Dilly Anumba
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S102SF, UK.
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Sterpu I, Pilo C, Koistinen IS, Lindqvist PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Itzel EW. Risk factors for poor neonatal outcome in pregnancies with decreased fetal movements. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:1014-1021. [PMID: 32072616 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of Swedish stillbirths has varied little in the past 40 years, with a reported frequency of 400-450 stillbirths/y (approximately 4‰), despite increased information about fetal movement in the media and awareness among healthcare providers. The objectives of this project were to describe the outcome of pregnancies with reduced fetal movement in a Swedish context and to investigate factors associated with poor neonatal outcome in this group. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed at Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. All single pregnancies at the hospital from January 2016 to December 2017 presenting with reduced fetal movement after 22 gestational weeks were included in the study. A composite neonatal outcome was constructed: 5-minute Apgar score ≤7, arterial pH in the umbilical cord ≤7.10, transfer to neonatal care unit for further care or intrauterine fetal death. RESULTS For women seeking care for reduced fetal movement, the occurrence of composite poor neonatal outcome ranged from 6.2% to 18.4% within different groups. The highest risk for poor neonatal outcome (18.4%) was found in the group of women with a small-for-gestational-age fetus. Another high-risk group (12.8%) was the one comprising women with normal birthweight/large-for-gestational-age fetuses with an in vitro fertilization pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS The highest incidence of poor neonatal outcome among women with reduced fetal movement was found in the groups with small-for-gestational-age fetuses in nulliparous and multiparous women. A routine ultrasound assessment for fetal growth in third trimester is supposedly most efficient to identify undiagnosed small for gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Sterpu
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Pilo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ina S Koistinen
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pelle G Lindqvist
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva W Itzel
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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