Impact of Chronic Hypertension and Antihypertensive Treatment on Adverse Perinatal Outcomes: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Kidney disease and reproductive health

Understanding the relationship between reproductive health and kidney function is important to provide holistic care for people living with kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has negative impacts on both male and female fertility owing to factors including inflammation, hormonal dysregulation, reduced ovarian reserve, reduced sperm quality and sexual dysfunction. However, pregnancy is achievable for most cisgender women with kidney disease, including kidney transplant recipients and patients on dialysis. CKD in pregnancy is associated with health risks to the mother and child, including increased risk of progression of kidney disease, hypertensive complications of pregnancy, and neonatal complications including fetal growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth. However, with appropriate pre-pregnancy counselling, fertility assessment and support, health optimization, and evidence-based antenatal care, the majority of patients will achieve a good outcome. Medication safety should be reviewed before and during pregnancy and lactation, weighing the risk of disease flare against potential adverse effects on the offspring. Important areas for further research include the optimal timing of delivery and the short- and long-term cardiovascular and renal impacts of pregnancy in patients with CKD, as well as long-term kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in their offspring.

Association of pre-/early pregnancy high blood pressure and pregnancy outcomes: a systemic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Maternal high blood pressure (BP) was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to synthesize evidence on the association between high BP prior to or in early pregnancy with maternal and fetal complications.

METHODS

We searched the cohort studies assessing the effect of high BP in the Medline, Embase, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Internet databases. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The protocol was registered in PROSPERRO (CRD 42023414945).

RESULTS

23 eligible studies were identified. High BP prior to or in early pregnancy was associated with higher odds of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (OR 2.90, 95% CI 1.91-3.89), gestational hypertension (2.56, 2.01-3.12), preeclampsia (3.20, 2.66-3.74), gestational diabetes mellitus (1.71, 1.36-2.06), preterm birth (1.66, 1.39-1.93), stillbirth (2.01, 1.45-2.58) and neonatal intensive care unit admission (1.22, 1.08-1.37). Subgroup analyses indicated that pre-hypertension could significantly increase the odds of these outcomes except for stillbirth, though the odds were lower than hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

High BP prior to or in early pregnancy was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and this association increased with hypertension severity. The findings emphasized an urgent need for heightened surveillance for maternal BP, especially pre-hypertensive status.

Identification of Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy in Three Administrative Data Sources Among Medicaid-Funded Births in California

PURPOSE

Administrative data sources are used to describe the epidemiology of chronic hypertension in pregnancy and its consequences. Differences in identification across sources may affect research estimates. We compared identification of chronic hypertension in birth certificate records, hospital discharge records, and Medi-Cal claims in the same individuals.

METHODS

We used data from 820 140 2016-2020 California Medi-Cal covered births. We identified chronic hypertension on birth certificates using the prepregnancy hypertension check box and in hospital discharge records and Medi-Cal claims using ICD codes. We compared the prevalence of chronic hypertension and identified predictors of agreement. We also compared absolute and relative estimates of racial/ethnic disparities in chronic hypertension and associations with neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

The prevalence of chronic hypertension was 0.7% in birth records, 2.1% in hospital discharge records, and 3.9% in Medi-Cal claims. There was low to fair agreement between birth certificate records and hospitalization records (kappa = 0.36) and Medi-Cal claims (kappa = 0.25). Characteristics associated with the worst agreement were eligibility for Women Infant and Children benefits, US-born, and normal body mass index. Estimates of the relative risk for racial/ethnic disparities and associations with preterm birth and SGA age at delivery were similar across sources. Estimates of risk differences were larger in hospitalization and Medi-Cal claims data.

CONCLUSIONS

Reliance on birth certificate data may contribute to underestimated prevalence estimates and biased causal estimates. Epidemiologic research and public health surveillance of chronic hypertension and its consequences should incorporate data from multiple data sources to improve validity of estimates.

Elevated Blood Pressure in Pregnancy and Long-Term Cardiometabolic Health Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between elevated blood pressure (BP) in the early third trimester and cardiometabolic health 10-14 years after delivery.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis from the prospective HAPO FUS (Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Follow-Up Study). Blood pressure in the early third trimester was categorized per American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association thresholds for: normal BP below 120/80 mm Hg (reference), elevated BP 120-129/below 80 mm Hg, stage 1 hypertension 130-139/80-89 mm Hg, and stage 2 hypertension 140/90 mm Hg or higher. Cardiometabolic outcomes assessed 10-14 years after the index pregnancy were type 2 diabetes mellitus and measures of dyslipidemia, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol 130 mg/dL or higher, total cholesterol 200 mg/dL or higher, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol 40 mg/dL or lower, and triglycerides 200 mg/dL or higher. Adjusted analysis was performed with the following covariates: study field center, follow-up duration, age, body mass index (BMI), height, family history of hypertension and diabetes, smoking and alcohol use, parity, and oral glucose tolerance test glucose z score.

RESULTS

Among 4,692 pregnant individuals at a median gestational age of 27.9 weeks (interquartile range 26.6-28.9 weeks), 8.5% (n=399) had elevated BP, 14.9% (n=701) had stage 1 hypertension, and 6.4% (n=302) had stage 2 hypertension. At a median follow-up of 11.6 years, among individuals with elevated BP, there was a higher frequency of diabetes (elevated BP: adjusted relative risk [aRR] 1.88, 95% CI, 1.06-3.35; stage 1 hypertension: aRR 2.58, 95% CI, 1.62-4.10; stage 2 hypertension: aRR 2.83, 95% CI, 1.65-4.95) compared with those with normal BP. Among individuals with elevated BP, there was a higher frequency of elevated LDL cholesterol (elevated BP: aRR 1.27, 95% CI, 1.03-1.57; stage 1 hypertension: aRR 1.22, 95% CI, 1.02-1.45, and stage 2 hypertension: aRR 1.38, 95% CI, 1.10-1.74), elevated total cholesterol (elevated BP: aRR 1.27, 95% CI, 1.07-1.52; stage 1 hypertension: aRR 1.16, 95% CI, 1.00-1.35; stage 2 hypertension: aRR 1.41 95% CI, 1.16-1.71), and elevated triglycerides (elevated BP: aRR 2.24, 95% CI, 1.42-3.53; stage 1 hypertension: aRR 2.15, 95% CI, 1.46-3.17; stage 2 hypertension: aRR 3.24, 95% CI, 2.05-5.11) but not of low HDL cholesterol.

CONCLUSION

The frequency of adverse cardiometabolic outcomes at 10-14 years after delivery was progressively higher among pregnant individuals with BP greater than 120/80 in the early third trimester.

Qualineo Strategy Indicators Associated with Neonatal Death: A Cross-Sectional Study

CONTEXT

The Qualineo Strategy is an effective measure for reducing neonatal mortality in regions with the highest death rates. In addition, it is a relevant Brazilian tool for strengthening teamwork and neonatal assistance. This study aims to analyze the predictors of neonatal death in the indicators of care provided by the Qualineo Strategy at a reference maternity hospital in Piauí, in the years 2021 to 2022.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 1856 newborn records. Pearson's chi-squared test was used to assess the association between the variables; a predictive regression model was used to identify the variables that predict neonatal mortality.

RESULTS

There was a significant association between all neonatal variables and the outcome of death (p < 0.05). The predictor variables for death in term newborns were the use of drugs by the mother and admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. For premature newborns, the predictor variables were, as follows: the use of cannula ventilation, an Apgar score in the 1st minute <7; and admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

CONCLUSIONS

The results will make it possible to visualize better strategies for the reality analyzed and reinforce the importance of prenatal care.

Genetic Insights Into Perinatal Outcomes of Maternal Antihypertensive Therapy During Pregnancy

Importance

Limited information exists regarding the impact of pharmacotherapy in pregnancy due to ethical concerns of unintended fetal harm. Yet, maternal prescriptive drug use for chronic conditions such as hypertension is common.

Objective

To investigate potential causal relationships between perturbing maternal genetic variants influencing antihypertensive drug targets and perinatal outcomes among offspring using mendelian randomization (MR).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This 2-sample MR study used individual-level single-nucleotide variation (SNV) outcome data from mother-father-offspring trios with complete genetic and phenotypic information from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) and summary-level SNV exposure data from UK Biobank participants sourced from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit OpenGWAS project. Pregnant individuals were recruited across Norway during their routine ultrasonography examination at 18 weeks' gestation between June 1999 and December 2008, and mothers, fathers, and offspring were followed up after birth. Novel genetic instruments for maternal antihypertensive drug targets that act via systolic blood pressure (SBP) were derived from individual-level data analyzed in January 2018. Two-sample multivariable MR analysis of these maternal drug targets and offspring outcomes were performed between January 2023 and April 2024.

Exposures

Maternal genetic variants associated with drug targets for treatments of hypertension, as specified in the National Health Service dictionary of medicines and devices.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Offspring outcomes were Apgar score at 1 minute and 5 minutes, offspring developmental score at 6 months, birth length, birth weight z score, gestational age, head circumference, and congenital malformation. Maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were a positive control.

Results

The MoBa sample contained 29 849 family trios, with a mean (SD) maternal age of 30.2 (18.6) years and a mean (SD) paternal age of 32.8 (13.1) years; 51.1% of offspring were male. Seven independent SNVs were identified as influencing maternal SBP via the antihypertensive drug target instruments. For higher levels of maternal SBP acting through the CACNB2 calcium channel blocker target, the estimated change in gestational age was 3.99 days (95% CI, 0.02-7.96 days) per 10-mm Hg decrease in SBP. There was no evidence of differential risk for measured perinatal outcomes from maternal SBP acting through drug targets for multiple hypertensive subclasses, such as between the ADRB1 β-adrenoceptor-blocking target and risk of congenital malformation (estimated odds ratio, 0.28 [95% CI, 0.02-4.71] per 10-mm Hg decrease in SBP). Maternal and paternal SBP acting through the EDNRA vasodilator antihypertensive target did not have a potential causal effect on birth weight z score, with respective β estimates of 0.71 (95% CI, -0.09 to 1.51) and 0.72 (95% CI, -0.08 to 1.53) per 10-mm Hg decrease in SBP.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings provided little evidence to indicate that perturbation of maternal genetic variants for SBP that influence antihypertensive drug targets had potential causal relationships with measures of perinatal development and health within this study. These findings may be triangulated with existing literature to guide physicians and mothers in decisions about antihypertensive use during pregnancy.

Treatment of hypertension during pregnancy: a cohort of pregnancy episodes from the SIDIAP database, Catalonia, Spain

Introduction

Hypertension during pregnancy is one of the most frequent causes of maternal and fetal morbimortality. Perinatal and maternal death and disability rates have decreased by 30%, but hypertension during pregnancy has increased by approximately 10% in the last 30 years. This research aimed to describe the pharmacological treatment and pregnancy outcomes of pregnancies with hypertension.

Methods

We carried out an observational cohort study from the Information System for the Development of Research in Primary Care (SIDIAP) database. Pregnancy episodes with hypertension (ICD-10 codes for hypertension, I10-I15 and O10-O16) were identified. Antihypertensives were classified according to the ATC WHO classification: β-blocking agents (BBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), agents acting on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS agents), diuretics, and antiadrenergic agents. Exposure was defined for hypertension in pregnancies with ≥2 prescriptions during the pregnancy episode. Descriptive statistics for diagnoses and treatments were calculated.

Results

In total, 4,839 pregnancies with hypertension diagnosis formed the study cohort. There were 1,944 (40.2%) pregnancies exposed to an antihypertensive medication. There were differences in mother's age, BMI, and alcohol intake between pregnancies exposed to antihypertensive medications and those not exposed. BBs were the most used (n = 1,160 pregnancy episodes; 59.7%), followed by RAS agents (n = 825, 42.4%), and CCBs were the least used (n = 347, 17.8%).

Discussion

Pregnancies involving hypertension were exposed to antihypertensive medications, mostly BBs. We conduct a study focused on RAS agent use during pregnancy and its outcomes in the offspring.

Trends and Disparities in Severe Maternal Morbidity Indicator Categories during Childbirth Hospitalization in California from 1997 to 2017

OBJECTIVE

Severe maternal morbidity (SMM) is increasing and characterized by substantial racial and ethnic disparities. Analyzing trends and disparities across time by etiologic or organ system groups instead of an aggregated index may inform specific, actionable pathways to equitable care. We explored trends and racial and ethnic disparities in seven SMM categories at childbirth hospitalization.

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed California birth cohort data on all live and stillbirths ≥ 20 weeks' gestation from 1997 to 2017 (n = 10,580,096) using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's SMM index. Cases were categorized into seven nonmutually exclusive indicator categories (cardiac, renal, respiratory, hemorrhage, sepsis, other obstetric, and other medical SMM). We compared prevalence and trends in SMM indicator categories overall and by racial and ethnic group using logistic and linear regression.

RESULTS

SMM occurred in 1.16% of births and nontransfusion SMM in 0.54%. Hemorrhage SMM occurred most frequently (27 per 10,000 births), followed by other obstetric (11), respiratory (7), and sepsis, cardiac, and renal SMM (5). Hemorrhage, renal, respiratory, and sepsis SMM increased over time for all racial and ethnic groups. The largest disparities were for Black individuals, including over 3-fold increased odds of other medical SMM. Renal and sepsis morbidity had the largest relative increases over time (717 and 544%). Sepsis and hemorrhage SMM had the largest absolute changes over time (17 per 10,000 increase). Disparities increased over time for respiratory SMM among Black, U.S.-born Hispanic, and non-U.S.-born Hispanic individuals and for sepsis SMM among Asian or Pacific Islander individuals. Disparities decreased over time for sepsis SMM among Black individuals yet remained substantial.

CONCLUSION

Our research further supports the critical need to address SMM and disparities as a significant public health priority in the United States and suggests that examining SMM subgroups may reveal helpful nuance for understanding trends, disparities, and potential needs for intervention.

KEY POINTS

· By SMM subgroup, trends and racial and ethnic disparities varied yet Black individuals consistently had highest rates.. · Hemorrhage, renal, respiratory, and sepsis SMM significantly increased over time.. · Disparities increased for respiratory SMM among Black, U.S.-born Hispanic and non-U.S.-born Hispanic individuals and for sepsis SMM among Asian or Pacific Islander individuals..

The association between blood pressure control in women during pregnancy and adverse perinatal outcomes: the TMM BirThree Cohort Study

Blood pressure (BP) control in pregnancy is essential to prevent adverse outcomes. However, BP levels for hypertension treatment are inconsistent among various guidelines. This study investigated the association between BP control and adverse perinatal outcomes. A total of 18,155 mother-offspring pairs were classified into four groups according to BP after 20 gestational weeks: normal BP (<140/90 mmHg without antihypertensive drugs), high BP (≥140/90 mmHg without antihypertensive drugs), controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg with antihypertensive drugs), and uncontrolled BP (≥140/90 mmHg with antihypertensive drugs). The prevalence of small for gestational age was 1,087/17,476 offspring in normal BP, 78/604 in high BP, 5/42 in controlled BP, and 7/33 in uncontrolled BP. Compared to normal BP, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) (95% confidence intervals (CIs)) were 1.76 (1.32-2.35) for high BP, 2.08 (0.79-5.50) for controlled BP, and 2.34 (0.94-5.85) for uncontrolled BP (multiple logistic regression analysis). Similarly, the adjusted ORs (95% CIs) were 1.80 (1.35-2.41), 3.42 (1.35-8.63), and 5.10 (1.93-13.45) for high, controlled, and uncontrolled BPs for low birth weight, respectively; 1.99 (1.48-2.68), 2.70 (1.12-6.50), and 6.53 (3.09-13.82) for high, controlled, and uncontrolled BPs for preterm birth, respectively; 1.64 (1.19-2.24), 2.17 (0.88-5.38), and 2.12 (0.80-5.65) for high, controlled, and uncontrolled BPs for admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or Growing Care Unit, respectively; and 1.17 (0.70-1.95), 2.23 (0.65-7.68), and 0.91 (0.20-4.16) for high, controlled, and uncontrolled BPs for 1-min Apgar score < 7, respectively. BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg might be taken care for preventing various adverse perinatal outcomes.

Pregnancy-associated changes in urinary uromodulin excretion in chronic hypertension

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy involves major adaptations in renal haemodynamics, tubular, and endocrine functions. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Uromodulin is a nephron-derived protein that is associated with hypertension and kidney diseases. Here we study the role of urinary uromodulin excretion in hypertensive pregnancy.

METHODS

Urinary uromodulin was measured by ELISA in 146 pregnant women with treated chronic hypertension (n = 118) and controls (n = 28). We studied non-pregnant and pregnant Wistar Kyoto and Stroke Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive rats (n = 8/strain), among which a group of pregnant Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive rats was treated with either nifedipine (n = 7) or propranolol (n = 8).

RESULTS

In pregnant women, diagnosis of chronic hypertension, increased maternal body mass index, Black maternal ethnicity and elevated systolic blood pressure at the first antenatal visit were significantly associated with a lower urinary uromodulin-to-creatinine ratio. In rodents, pre-pregnancy urinary uromodulin excretion was twofold lower in Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive rats than in Wistar Kyoto rats. During pregnancy, the urinary uromodulin excretion rate gradually decreased in Wistar Kyoto rats (a twofold decrease), whereas a 1.5-fold increase was observed in Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive rats compared to pre-pregnancy levels. Changes in uromodulin were attributed by kidney injury in pregnant rats. Neither antihypertensive changed urinary uromodulin excretion rate in pregnant Stroke-Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive rats.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, we demonstrate pregnancy-associated differences in urinary uromodulin: creatinine ratio and uromodulin excretion rate between chronic hypertensive and normotensive pregnancies. Further research is needed to fully understand uromodulin physiology in human pregnancy and establish uromodulin's potential as a biomarker for renal adaptation and renal function in pregnancy.

Prevalence and outcome of chronic hypertension and its complications with gestational diabetes

OBJECTIVES

With the full liberalization of China's fertility policy, the gradual increase in maternal age during pregnancy, and the rising proportion of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age, the number of pregnant women with chronic hypertension (CHTN) combined with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing, leading to a significantly increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of CHTN and CHTN complications with GDM, and compare the adverse pregnancy outcomes between the 2 conditions, providing a basis for intervention measures.

METHODS

This study was a prospective cohort study. A total of 378 366 cases from a large cohort of pregnant women between January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020 were screened to identify 1 418 cases of pregnant women with CHTN, among which 1 027 were cases of CHTN alone and 391 were cases of CHTN combined with GDM. SAS9.4 was used to statistically analyze the basic characteristics, clinical data, and pregnant outcomes of pregnant women and to analyze the risk factors affecting the pregnancy outcomes of patients with CHTN and its complications with GDM.

RESULTS

The prevalence rate of CHTN with pregnancy was 3.8‰, and the prevalence rate of CHTN combined with GDM was 1.0‰. Patients with CHTN combined with GDM accounted for 27.57% (391/1 418) of all pregnant women with CHTN. Maternal age, number of pregnancies, parity, previous cesarean section, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure at the time of enrollment were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups (all P<0.05). After adjusting for potential confounding factors such as maternal age, parity, and number of pregnancies, binary Logistic regression analysis showed that pregnant women with CHTN combined with GDM had a 1.348 times higher risk of cesarean section (OR=1.348, 95% CI 1.043 to 1.741), a 2.029 times higher risk of placental adhesion (OR=2.029, 95% CI 1.190 to 3.462), a 1.540 times higher risk of preeclampsia (OR=1.540, 95% CI 1.101 to 2.152), and a 2.670 times higher risk of macrosomia (OR=2.670, 95% CI 1.398 to 5.100) compared to pregnant women with CHTN alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with CHTN combined with GDM have a high risk, and their pregnancy outcomes differ from those of pregnant women with CHTN alone in terms of cesarean section, placental adhesion, preeclampsia, and macrosomia. Prenatal care for this population, especially the management of blood pressure and blood sugar, needs to be given special attention.

The Association of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy with Infant Mortality, Preterm Delivery, and Small for Gestational Age

Gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia, and chronic hypertension (CHTN) are associated with adverse infant outcomes and disproportionately affect minoritized race/ethnicity groups. We evaluated the relationships between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and/or CHTN with infant mortality, preterm delivery (PTD), and small for gestational age (SGA) in a statewide cohort with a diverse racial/ethnic population. All live, singleton deliveries in South Carolina (2004-2016) to mothers aged 12-49 were evaluated for adverse outcomes: infant mortality, PTD (20 to less than <37 weeks) and SGA (<10th birthweight-for-gestational-age percentile). Logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics. In 666,905 deliveries, mothers had superimposed preeclampsia (HDP + CHTN; 1.0%), HDP alone (8.0%), CHTN alone (1.8%), or no hypertension (89.1%). Infant mortality risk was significantly higher in deliveries to women with superimposed preeclampsia, HDP, and CHTN compared with no hypertension (relative risk [RR] = 1.79, 1.39, and 1.48, respectively). After accounting for differing risk by race/ethnicity, deliveries to women with HDP and/or CHTN were more likely to result in PTD (RRs ranged from 3.14 to 5.25) or SGA (RRs ranged from 1.67 to 3.64). As CHTN, HDP and superimposed preeclampsia confer higher risk of adverse outcomes, prevention efforts should involve encouraging and supporting mothers in mitigating modifiable cardiovascular risk factors.

Pregnancy outcomes among patients with stage 1 chronic hypertension

In recent years, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association have reduced the thresholds for a hypertension diagnosis among nonpregnant adults. This change has led to more individuals with reproductive potential to be labeled as being chronically hypertensive, and some were started on antihypertensive medications. When these individuals become pregnant, the obstetrical care provider will have to decide whether to manage them as individuals with chronic hypertensive when only a few years ago they would have been managed as normotensive individuals and when the evidence regarding treatment of these patients during pregnancy is limited. If implemented widely, the management of patients with stage 1 hypertension similar to the traditional chronic hypertension will likely lead to additional maternal and fetal testing, to an increase in hospital admissions, and potentially to unnecessary interventions, such as preterm birth. Our goal was to compile the existing evidence regarding the pregnancy outcomes among patients with stage 1 hypertension to assist providers in their diagnosis and management of this patient group.

Effect of daily physical activity on ambulatory blood pressure in pregnant women with chronic hypertension: A prospective cohort study protocol

BACKGROUND

Physical activity, a first-line approach for the treatment of non-gestational hypertension globally, has been shown to benefit most pregnant women in many respects. The benefits and risks of prenatal physical activity in complicated pregnancies, such as preeclampsia and chronic hypertension, require further investigation. It is worth conducting studies to address questions about physical activity during pregnancy in women with chronic hypertension, such as the benefits and risks, frequency, duration, and intensity. This prospective cohort study aims to investigate whether moderate-intensity daily physical activity reduces ambulatory blood pressure in pregnant women with chronic hypertension.

METHODS

Pregnant women with chronic hypertension at 11+0 to 13+6 gestational weeks will be recruited from the outpatient clinic and divided into moderate- and light-intensity physical activity groups according to the intensity of the 7-day physical activity monitored using the model wGT3X-BT accelerometer. 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring will be performed at enrollment as a baseline and will be repeated in the second and third trimesters. The primary outcome is the difference in the change in 24-h ambulatory systolic blood pressure from the first to the third trimester between the groups. Secondary outcomes include the difference of change in other ambulatory (24-h diastolic, daytime, and nighttime) and office blood pressure variables from the first to the second and third trimesters, the incidence of severe hypertension (≥160/110 mmHg), and changes in the type and dosage of antihypertensive medication. The primary and secondary outcomes related to changes in blood pressure from baseline to the second and third trimesters between the groups will be analyzed using Student's independent t-test or the Mann-Whitney U test.

DISCUSSION

This cohort study will provide a basis for randomized controlled trials and verify an easily achieved, economical, and non-fetotoxic approach for adjuvant blood pressure management in pregnant women with chronic hypertension.

REGISTRY

This study is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (NO. ChiCTR2200062094). Date Registered: 21/07/2022.

Fruits and vegetables intake improves birth outcomes of women with gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Disorders of pregnancy such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have been associated with adverse birth outcomes. However, the ameliorating role of maternal nutrition in the relationship between disorders of pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes has received very little attention. We investigated the relationship between HDP and GDM, and adverse birth outcomes in a Ghanaian population and evaluated the effect modifying role of fruits and vegetables consumption in the relationship.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study among 799 mothers who had recently delivered singletons in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Information on HDP, GDM and birth outcomes were retrieved from the maternal health book of the mothers. A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess fruits and vegetables intake during pregnancy. Modified Poisson regression was used to investigate the association between pregnancy disorders, and preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW). Stratified analysis was used to assess the effect modifying role of fruits and vegetables consumption in the relationship.

RESULTS

The proportion of mothers with HDP and GDM was 11.3% and 7.5%, respectively. The proportion of the mothers with both conditions was 0.9%. The prevalence of PTB and LBW in the population was 27.9 and 7.3%, respectively. These disorders of pregnancy were associated with increased risk of PTB (Adjusted Prevalence Ration [APR] = 3.02; 95% CI: 2.42, 3.77) and LBW (APR = 5.32; 95% CI: 3.19, 8.88). In the stratified analysis, risk of PTB was higher among mothers classified in tertile I compared to mothers classified in tertiles II and III. For LBW, the risk increased with increasing fruits and vegetables consumption. The interaction p values were 0.0043 and 0.1604 for PTB and LBW, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We found mothers who were diagnosed with GDM and HDP to have increased risk of delivering a PTB and LBW baby. We also found fruits and vegetables consumption to modify the observed relationship. Mothers diagnosed with GDM and HDP should be advised during antenatal care visits to increase intake of fruits and vegetable consumption to help safeguard their health and that of the developing foetus.

Perinatal outcomes in women with lower-range elevated blood pressure and stage 1 hypertension: insights from the Kaya health and demographic surveillance system, Burkina Faso

BACKGROUND

The impact of lower thresholds for elevated blood pressure (BP) on adverse perinatal outcomes has been poorly explored in sub-Saharan African populations. We aimed to explore the association between lower BP cutoffs (according to the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association [ACC/AHA] criteria) and adverse perinatal outcomes in Kaya, Burkina Faso.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 2,232 women with singleton pregnancies between February and September 2021. BP was categorized according to the ACC/AHA criteria and applied throughout pregnancy. A multivariable Poisson regression model based on Generalized Estimating Equation with robust standard errors was used to evaluate the association between elevated BP, stage 1 hypertension, and adverse perinatal outcomes, controlling for maternal sociodemographic characteristics, parity, and the number of antenatal consultations, and the results were presented as adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Of the 2,232 women, 1000 (44.8%) were normotensive, 334 (14.9%) had elevated BP, 759 (34.0%) had stage 1 hypertension, and 139 (6.2%) had stage 2 hypertension. There was no significant association between elevated BP and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Compared to normotensive women, women with elevated BP had a 2.05-fold increased risk of delivery via caesarean section (aRR;2.05, 95%CI; 1.08-3.92), while those with stage 1 hypertension had a 1.41-fold increased risk of having low birth weight babies (aRR; 1.41, 95%CI; 1.06-1.86), and a 1.32-fold increased risk of having any maternal or neonatal adverse outcome (aRR; 1.32, 95%CI; 1.02-1.69).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes is not increased with elevated BP. Proactive identification of pregnant women with stage 1 hypertension in Burkina Faso can improve hypertension management through enhanced clinical surveillance.

Improved estimates of foetal growth are associated with perinatal outcomes: A latent modelling approach in a population-based birth cohort

Background

We aimed to estimate latent foetal growth conditions and explore their determinants among maternal characteristics and ultrasound biometric parameters. We additionally investigated the influence of foetal growth conditions on perinatal variables.

Methods

We used data from live-born singletons in the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition in Acre, Brazil (MINA-Brazil Study) population-based birth cohort. Maternal and perinatal characteristics were assessed in medical records from the maternity hospital and interviews with participants from July 2015 to June 2016. A sub-sample went through ultrasound examinations during the antenatal period, with assessment of foetal head and abdominal circumferences, and femur length. We estimated latent foetal growth conditions with a structural equation modelling framework, informed by the child's birth weight z-scores (BWZ) and birth length z-scores (BLZ) according to gestational age. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the occurrence of perinatal events were estimated according to linear predictions of the latent variable.

Results

We included 1253 participants. Latent foetal growth conditions explained 88.3% of BWZ and 53.7% of BLZ variation. Maternal elevated blood pressure, primiparity, smoking, malaria, and insufficient gestational weight gain negatively impacted foetal growth conditions. In the subsample (n = 499), ultrasound biometric parameters assessed at 28 weeks were positively associated with the latent variable, with the largest contribution from foetal abdominal circumference. Each standardised unit of predicted foetal growth conditions halved the chance for preterm birth (95% CI = 0.26, 0.74) and longer hospital stay (>3 days) (95% CI = 0.28, 0.88). Conversely, BWZ and BLZ were not independently associated with these perinatal variables in separate logistic regression models.

Conclusions

Latent foetal growth conditions jointly encompassing weight gain and linear growth during gestation were negatively influenced by a scenario of dual burden of maternal morbidities, with perinatal implications.

The association between hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes: a retrospective claims analysis

BACKGROUND

Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy continue to increase in prevalence and are associated with several adverse outcomes and future cardiovascular risk for mothers. This study evaluated the association of hypertensive disorders compared to no hypertension during pregnancy with neonatal and maternal outcomes. We then evaluated risk factors associated with progression from a less to more severe hypertensive disorder during pregnancy.

METHODS

We conducted a propensity-matched retrospective cohort study utilizing Medicaid claims data from a national insurer. The study population consisted of mothers with and without hypertensive disorders who delivered between 7/1/2016-12/31/2018 and their infants. Hypertensive disorders included gestational hypertension, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia, and superimposed preeclampsia. Propensity score matching was used to match mothers without to those with hypertensive disorders. Regression models were used to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes. Stepwise logistic regression was used to determine characteristics associated with the progression of gestational hypertension to preeclampsia or chronic hypertension to superimposed preeclampsia.

RESULTS

We observed the highest risk of cesarean delivery (odds ratio [OR]:1.61 and 1.99) in mothers and preterm delivery (OR:2.22 and 5.37), respiratory distress syndrome (OR:2.39 and 4.19), and low birthweight (OR:3.64 and 9.61) in babies born to mothers with preeclampsia or superimposed preeclampsia compared to no hypertension, respectively (p < 0.05 for all outcomes). These outcomes were slightly higher among chronic or gestational hypertension compared to no hypertension, however, most were not statistically significant. Risk of neonatal intensive care unit utilization was higher among more severe hypertensive disorders (OR:2.41 for preeclampsia, OR:4.87 for superimposed preeclampsia). Obesity/overweight and having a history of preeclampsia during a prior pregnancy were most likely to predict progression from gestational/chronic hypertension to preeclampsia/superimposed preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

Mothers and neonates born to mothers with preeclampsia or superimposed preeclampsia experienced more adverse outcomes compared to those without hypertension. Mothers and neonates born to mothers with gestational hypertension had outcomes similar to those without hypertension. Outcomes for those with chronic hypertension fell in between gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. Obesity/overweight and having a history of preeclampsia during a prior pregnancy were strong risk factors for hypertension progression.

Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Lens Into Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Prevention

Hypertension is a major, modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the United States. Over the past decade, the prevalence of chronic hypertension (CHTN) during pregnancy has nearly doubled with persistent race- and place-based disparities. Blood pressure elevations are of particular concern during pregnancy given higher risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, as well as higher lifetime risk of CVD in birthing individuals with CHTN. When identified during pregnancy, CHTN can, therefore, serve as a lens into CVD risk, as well as a modifiable target to mitigate cardiovascular risk throughout the life course. Health services and public health interventions that equitably promote cardiovascular health during the peripartum period could have an important impact on preventing CHTN and reducing lifetime risk of CVD. This review will summarize the epidemiology and guidelines for the diagnosis and management of CHTN in pregnancy; describe the current evidence for associations between CHTN, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and CVD; and identify opportunities for peripartum care to equitably reduce hypertension and CVD risk throughout the life course.

Management of blood pressure in pregnancy: new perspectives from the CHAP trial

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic hypertension affects up to 10% of pregnancies in the United States and the incidence of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy has more than doubled in the past decade, affecting minority women at disproportionate rates. Recent data show potential benefit by lowering the threshold of blood pressure treatment for pregnant women to >140/90 mmHg.

RECENT FINDINGS

In April 2022, the results of the Chronic Hypertension and Pregnancy (CHAP) trial was published and demonstrated that lower thresholds (>140/90 vs. >160/110 mmHg) for the initiation of antihypertensive therapy during pregnancy resulted in better pregnancy outcomes without negative impacts to foetal growth. In addition, professional societies, such as the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM), have released statements supporting the initiation of antihypertensive therapy at elevations above 140/90 mmHg for pregnant women with chronic hypertension based upon these recent reports.

SUMMARY

Treatment of hypertension in pregnant women is controversial, but recent data are emerging that treatment at lower blood pressure thresholds may be associated with improved perinatal outcomes without an increased risk of poor foetal growth. Although these recommendations may be applied to women with chronic hypertension, more research is needed to determine how these guidelines should be applied to other hypertensive diseases of pregnancy.

Supporting reproductive health among birthing persons with chronic conditions in the United States: A qualitative multilevel study using systems thinking to inform action

OBJECTIVE (STUDY QUESTION)

To use systems thinking with diverse system actors to (a) characterize current problems at the intersection of chronic conditions (CCs) and reproductive health (RH) care and their determinants, (b) determine necessary system actors for change, and (c) document cross-system actions that can improve identified problems in the United States.

DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING

Data were collected from six groups of system actors via online focus groups.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a qualitative multilevel study using the iceberg systems thinking framework.

DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS

Data were collected by note-taking and recording six focus groups; analysis incorporated perspective triangulation using the systems thinking iceberg and system mapping to visualize interconnected system challenges, actors, and action ideas.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Participants described eight necessary system actors: health care institutions, medical leaders, medical providers, patient advocates and foundations, patients and families, payors, policy makers, and research funders. Forty pain points were identified, spread across each of the four levels of the systems thinking iceberg: undesirable outcomes (6), concerning trends (9), system structure flaws (15), and problematic mental models (10). In response to these pain points, a set of 46 action ideas was generated by participants and mapped into nine action themes: (1) adjust QI metrics, incentives, and reimbursement, (2) bolster RH medical education and training, (3) break down medical silos, (4) enrich patient education, (5) expand the health care team, (6) improve holistic health care, (7) modify research and programmatic funding to prioritize RH and CC, (8) spur innovation for patient visits, and (9) support professional champions and leaders.

CONCLUSIONS

By embracing system complexity, creating visual maps, and pushing participants to identify actionable strategies for improvement, this study generates a set of specific actions that can be used to address pain points across the multiple system levels that make improving reproductive care for people with CCs so challenging.

Does Delayed Fertility Explain the Rise in Comorbidities Among the Birthing Population?

Background: The increasing prevalence of preexisting health conditions among pregnant people is often attributed to the concurrent rise in maternal age. However, the link between advanced maternal age (AMA) and increases in chronic conditions among the birthing population has not been systematically documented at the population level. Materials and Methods: This retrospective population-based cohort study was based on linked hospitalization discharge and birth certificate data for live birth deliveries in California from 1991 to 2012. Decomposition techniques evaluated whether changes in the prevalence of selected preexisting health conditions during delivery (autoimmune conditions, chronic hypertension, cardiac disease, diabetes, and renal disease) were explained by population-level increases in maternal age. Analyses further adjusted for maternal education, plurality, insurance status, and availability of paternal information on the birth certificate. Results: Between 1991 and 2012, there were more than 11.5 million live birth deliveries in California. AMA (≥35 years) increased nearly 70% over this period. The prevalence of autoimmune conditions, chronic hypertension, diabetes, and renal disease rose among the birthing population, while cardiac disease declined. The prevalence of all conditions was higher for AMA, but changes in maternal age accounted for only 5.3%, 8.4%, 13.9%, and 0.4%, of the increase in autoimmune conditions, chronic hypertension, diabetes, and renal disease, respectively. Conclusion: While AMA was associated with higher rates of preexisting health conditions, it contributed little to the increase in autoimmune conditions, chronic hypertension, and diabetes and nothing to the rise in renal disease during childbirth.

Adverse Maternal and Infant Outcomes in Women With Chronic Hypertension in France (2010-2018): The Nationwide CONCEPTION Study

Background It has been suggested that chronic hypertension is a risk factor for negative maternal and fetal outcomes during pregnancy and postpartum. We aimed to estimate the association of chronic hypertension on adverse maternal and infant outcomes and assess the impact of antihypertensive treatment and these outcomes. Methods and Results Using data from the French national health data system, we identified and included in the CONCEPTION cohort all women in France who delivered their first child between 2010 and 2018. Chronic hypertension before pregnancy was identified through antihypertensive medication purchases and by diagnosis during hospitalization. We assessed the incidence risk ratios (IRRs) of maternofetal outcomes using Poisson models. A total of 2 822 616 women were included, and 42 349 (1.5%) had chronic hypertension and 22 816 were treated during pregnancy. In Poisson models, the adjusted IRR (95% CI) of maternofetal outcomes for women with hypertension were as follows: 1.76 (1.54-2.01) for infant death, 1.73 (1.60-1.87) for small gestational age, 2.14 (1.89-2.43) for preterm birth, 4.58 (4.41-4.75) for preeclampsia, 1.33 (1.27-1.39) for cesarean delivery, 1.84 (1.47-2.31) for venous thromboembolism, 2.62 (1.71-4.01) for stroke or acute coronary syndrome, and 3.54 (2.11-5.93) for maternal death postpartum. In women with chronic hypertension, being treated with an antihypertensive drug during pregnancy was associated with a significantly lower risk of obstetric hemorrhage, stroke, and acute coronary syndrome during pregnancy and postpartum. Conclusions Chronic hypertension is a major risk factor of infant and maternal negative outcomes. In women with chronic hypertension, the risk of pregnancy and postpartum cardiovascular events may be decreased by antihypertensive treatment during pregnancy.

Risk of major congenital malformations associated with first-trimester antihypertensives, including amlodipine and methyldopa: A large claims database study 2010-2019

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the major congenital malformation (MCM) risk of first-trimester antihypertensive exposure, specifically of amlodipine and methyldopa.

STUDY DESIGN

A large administrative claims database was used.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The prevalence of antihypertensive prescriptions during pregnancy was described in 91,390 women giving birth between 2010 and 2019. The MCM risk of first-trimester antihypertensives was evaluated in 1,185 women diagnosed with hypertensive disorders in the first trimester. The MCM risk of first-trimester amlodipine and methyldopa was evaluated in 178 women who were prescribed antihypertensives in the first trimester.

RESULTS

Antihypertensives were prescribed to 278 (0.30%) women during their first trimester. The prescription prevalence in the first trimester was highest for methyldopa (115, 0.13%), followed by amlodipine (55, 0.06%). Antihypertensives were prescribed to 2,955 (3.23%) women during pregnancy. Nifedipine (903, 0.99%) and nicardipine (758, 0.83%) were the most frequently prescribed oral and injectable antihypertensives during pregnancy, both with a significant increase in annual prevalence. Of the 1,185 women diagnosed with hypertensive disorders in the first trimester, antihypertensives were prescribed to 178 women. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of MCMs in the first-trimester prescription of any antihypertensive medication was 1.124 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.618-2.045). Amlodipine and methyldopa were prescribed to 44 and 93 of the 178 women, respectively. The aORs of MCMs in the first-trimester prescription of amlodipine and methyldopa were 1.219 (95% CI, 0.400-3.721) and 0.921 (0.331-2.564), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The MCM risk of first-trimester exposure to antihypertensives, including amlodipine and methyldopa, was not suggested.

Beta-Blockers in Pregnancy: Clinical Update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this review was to determine the anticipated benefits and adverse effects of beta-blockers in pregnant women with hypertension. The other issue was to assess the possible adverse effects of beta-blockers for their babies and provide current consensus recommendations for appropriate selection and individualized antihypertensive treatment with beta-blockers in pregnancy-associated hypertension.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity, with consequences later in life. Certain beta-blockers are useful for ameliorating hypertension in pregnancy and may have a protective role in endothelial dysfunction. However, some aspects of beta-blocker use in pregnancy are contentious among providers. Evidence on their safety, although well documented, is variable, and recent research reveals areas of controversy. Besides intrauterine growth restriction, other neonatal and obstetric complications remain a concern and should be explored thoroughly. Attention is necessary when treating pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders with beta-blockers. Specific beta-blockers are considered safe in pregnancy, although the associated effects in the fetus are not clearly known and evidence is lacking for many safety outcomes, other than intrauterine growth restriction. Nevertheless, beta-blockers with specific indications in pregnancy under individualized selection and monitoring may confer substantial improvements in pregnant women with hypertension.

Maternal Mortality in the United States: Trends and Opportunities for Prevention

Maternal mortality is unusually high in the United States compared to other wealthy nations and is characterized by major disparities in race/ethnicity, geography, and socioeconomic factors. Similar to other developed nations, the United States has seen a shift in the underlying causes of pregnancy-related death, with a relative increase in mortality resulting from diseases of the cardiovascular system and preexisting medical conditions. Improved continuity of care aimed at identifying reproductive-age women with preexisting conditions that may heighten the risk of maternal death, preconception management of risk factors for major adverse pregnancy outcomes, and primary care visits within the first year after delivery may offer opportunities to address gaps in medical care contributing to the unacceptable rates of maternal mortality in the United States.

Reduction in Preterm Preeclampsia after Contingent First-Trimester Screening and Aspirin Prophylaxis in a Routine Care Setting

Objectives: Several multivariate algorithms for preeclampsia (PE) screening in the first trimester have been developed over the past few years. These models include maternal factors, mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery Doppler (UtA-PI), and biochemical markers (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) or placental growth factor (PlGF)). Treatment with low-dose aspirin (LDA) has shown a reduction in the incidence of preterm PE in women with a high-risk assessment in the first trimester. An important barrier to the implementation of first-trimester screening is the cost of performing tests for biochemical markers in the whole population. Theoretical contingent strategies suggest that two-stage screening models could also achieve high detection rates for preterm PE with lower costs. However, no data derived from routine care settings are currently available. This study was conducted to validate and assess the performance of a first-trimester contingent screening process using PlGF for PE, with prophylactic LDA, for decreasing the incidence of preterm PE. Methods: This was a two-phase study. In phase one, a contingent screening model for PE was developed using a multivariate validated model and a historical cohort participating in a non-interventional PE screening study (n = 525). First-stage risk assessment included maternal factors, MAP, UtA-PI, and PAPP-A. Several cut-off levels were tested to determine the best screening performance, and three groups were then defined (high-, medium-, and low-risk groups). PlGF was determined in the medium-risk group to calculate the final risk. Phase two included a validation cohort of 847 singleton pregnancies prospectively undergoing first-trimester PE screening using this approach. Women at high risk of PE received prophylactic treatment with 150 mg of LDA. The clinical impact of the model was evaluated by comparing the incidence of early-onset (<34 weeks) and preterm (<37 weeks) PE between groups. Results: Cut-off levels for the contingent screening model were chosen in the first and second stages of screening to achieve a performance with sensitivities of 100% and 80% for early-onset and preterm PE detection, respectively, with a 15% false positive rate. In the development phase, 21.5% (n = 113) of the women had a medium risk of PE and required second-stage screening. In the prospective validation phase, 15.3% (n = 130) of the women required second-stage screening for PlGF, yielding an overall screen-positive rate of 14.9% (n = 126). The incidence of preterm PE was reduced by 68.4% (1.9% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.031) after one year of screening implementation. Conclusions: Implementation of contingent screening for PE using PlGF in a routine care setting led to a significant reduction (68.4%) in preterm PE, suggesting that contingent screening can achieve similar results to protocols using PlGF in the whole population. This could have financial benefits, with a similar reduction in the rate of preterm PE.

Role of Antihypertensive Treatment and Blood Pressure Control in the Occurrence of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: a Population-Based Study of Linked Electronic Health Records

BACKGROUND

Chronic hypertension (CH) adversely impacts pregnancy. It remains unclear whether antihypertensive treatment alters these risks. We examined the role of antihypertensive treatment in the association between CH and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

Electronic health records from the UK Caliber and Clinical Practice Research Datalink were used to define a cohort of women delivering between 1997 and 2016. Primary outcomes were preeclampsia, preterm birth (PTB), and fetal growth restriction (FGR). We used multivariable logistic regression to compare outcomes in women with CH to women without CH and propensity score matching to compare antihypertensive agents.

RESULTS

The study cohort consisted of 1 304 679 women and 1 894 184 births. 14 595 (0.77%) had CH, and 6786 (0.36%) were prescribed antihypertensive medications in pregnancy. Overall, women with CH (versus no CH), had higher odds of preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.74 [95% CI, 5.44-6.07]); PTB (aOR, 2.53 [2.39-2.67]); and FGR (aOR, 2.51 [2.31-2.72]). Women with CH prescribed treatment (versus untreated women) had higher odds of preeclampsia (aOR, 1.17 [1.05-1.30]), PTB (1.25 [1.12-1.39]), and FGR (1.80 [1.51-2.14]). Women prescribed methyldopa (versus β-blockers) had higher odds of preeclampsia (aOR, 1.43 [1.19-1.73]); PTB (1.59 [1.30-1.93]), but lower odds of FGR (aOR, 0.66 [0.48-0.90]). Odds of adverse outcomes were similar in relation to calcium channel blockers (versus β-blockers) except for PTB (aOR, 1.94 [1.15-3.27]). Among women prescribed treatment, lower average blood pressure (<135/85 mm Hg) was associated with better pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with antihypertensive agents and control of hypertension ameliorates some effects but higher risks of adverse outcomes persist. β-Blockers versus methyldopa may be associated with better pregnancy outcomes except for FGR. Powered trials are needed to inform optimal treatment of CH during pregnancy.

Chronic hypertension and risk of preterm delivery: National Longitudinal Study of Adolescents to Adult Health

BACKGROUND

Chronic hypertension during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. In 2017, the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) lowered thresholds to classify hypertension in non-pregnant adults to SBP ≥ 130 mmHg and DBP ≥ 80 mmHg (ie stage I hypertension), resulting in an additional 4.5-million reproductive-aged women meeting criteria for hypertension. Little is known about effects of pre-pregnancy blood pressure (BP) in this range.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effect of pre-pregnancy maternal BP on preterm delivery.

METHODS

We analysed the data from two waves of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, including participants that had measured BP at Wave IV (2008-09) and a pregnancy that resulted in a singleton live birth between Waves IV and V (2016-18; n = 2038). We categorised BP using ACC/AHA cut-offs: normal (SBP < 120 mmHg and DBP < 80 mmHg), elevated (SBP 120-129 mmHg and DBP < 80 mmHg), hypertension stage I (SBP 130-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg) and hypertension stage II (SBP ≥ 140 mmHg or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg). We estimated risk ratios (RR) with log-binomial regression adjusting for maternal demographics, anthropometrics and medication use.

RESULTS

The prevalence of preterm delivery was 12.6%. A standard deviation (SD) increment in SBP (SD = 12.2 mmHg) and DBP (SD = 9.3 mmHg) was associated with a 14% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2, 27) and 20% (95% CI 4, 37) higher risk of preterm delivery. Compared to normotensive controls, stage I (RR 1.33, 95% CI 1.01, 1.74) and stage II (RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.89, 2.00) hypertension were associated with increased risk.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed greater risk of preterm delivery among women with higher pre-pregnancy BP. Women with stage I hypertension during pregnancy may benefit from increased BP monitoring. Additional studies on the utility of foetal surveillance in this group are warranted.

Optimal blood pressure target to prevent severe hypertension in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Severe hypertension in pregnancy is a hypertensive crisis that requires urgent and intensive care due to its high maternal and fetal mortality. However, there is still a conflict of opinion on the recommendations of antihypertensive therapy. This study aimed to identify the optimal blood pressure (BP) levels to prevent severe hypertension in pregnant women with nonsevere hypertension. Ovid MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library were searched, and only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they compared the effects of antihypertensive drugs and placebo/no treatment or more intensive and less intensive BP-lowering treatments in nonsevere hypertensive pregnant patients. A random effects model meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled risk ratio (RR) for the outcomes. Forty RCTs with 6355 patients were included in the study. BP-lowering treatment significantly prevented severe hypertension (RR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.37-0.56), preeclampsia (RR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69-0.98), severe preeclampsia (RR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.84), placental abruption (RR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.32-0.86), and preterm birth (< 37 weeks; RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.71-0.93), while the risk of small for gestational age infants was increased (RR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.02-1.54). An achieved systolic blood pressure (SBP) of < 130 mmHg reduced the risk of severe hypertension to nearly one-third compared with an SBP of ≥ 140 mmHg, with a significant interaction of the BP levels achieved with BP-lowering therapy. There was no significant interaction between the subtypes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and BP-lowering treatment, except for placental abruption. BP-lowering treatment aimed at an SBP < 130 mmHg and accompanied by the careful monitoring of fetal growth might be recommended to prevent severe hypertension.

Pharmacoepidemiology in pregnancy: analysis protocol for an observational cohort study in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink

Large numbers of women take prescription and over-the-counter medications during pregnancy. However, there is very little definitive evidence about the potential effects of these drugs on the mothers and offspring. We will investigate the risks and benefits of continuing prescriptive drug use for chronic pre-existing maternal conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and thyroid related conditions throughout pregnancy. If left untreated, these conditions are established risk factors for adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes. However, some treatments for these conditions are associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. Our primary aims are twofold. Firstly, we aim to estimate the beneficial effect on the mother of continuing treatment during pregnancy. Second, we aim to determine whether there is an associated detrimental impact on the neonate of continuation of maternal treatment during pregnancy. To establish this evidence, we will investigate the relationship between maternal drug prescriptions and adverse and beneficial offspring outcomes to provide evidence to guide clinical decisions. We will conduct a hypothesis testing observational intergenerational cohort study using data from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). We will apply four statistical methods: multivariable adjusted regression, propensity score regression, instrumental variables analysis and negative control analysis. These methods should account for potential confounding when estimating the association between the drug exposure and maternal or neonatal outcome. In this protocol we describe the aims, motivation, study design, cohort and statistical analyses of our study to aid reproducibility and transparency within research.

Endometrial thickness is associated with low birthweight in frozen embryo transfer cycles: A retrospective cohort study of 8,235 singleton newborns

OBJECTIVE

To explore the association between endometrial thickness (EMT) and adverse neonatal outcomes in frozen in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer (IVF/ICSI-ET) cycles.

METHODS

This retrospective study involved a total of 8,235 women under the age of 35 years who underwent IVF/ICSI cycles and received frozen embryo transfer (FET) at a tertiary-care academic medical from January 2015 to December 2019, resulting in a live singleton newborn. Patients were categorized into three groups depending on EMT: ≤7.5 mm, 7.5-12 mm and >12 mm. The primary outcome was low birthweight (LBW). The secondary outcomes were preterm birth (PTB), small-for-gestational age (SGA), large-for-gestational age (LGA) and high birthweight (HBW).

RESULTS

Compared with EMT >7.5-12 mm group, the risk of being born LBW was statistically significantly increased in the EMT ≤7.5 mm group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.179; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.305-3.640; P=.003), while dramatically decreased in the EMT >12 mm group (aOR 0.584; 95% CI, 0.403-0.844; P=.004). Moreover, newborn gender and pregnancy complications were all independent predictors for LBW. Furthermore, a significant decrease in birthweight was found in the EMT ≤7.5 mm group as compared with EMT >7.5-12 mm group and EMT >12 mm group (3,239 ± 612 vs. 3,357 ± 512 and 3,374 ± 479 g, respectively), and similar result was found in term of gestational age (38.41 ± 2.19 vs. 39.01 ± 1.68 and 39.09 ± 1.5 weeks, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

After frozen IVF/ICSI-ET, EMT ≤7.5 mm is independently associated with increased risk of LBW among women with singleton newborns. Therefore, we suggest that women with EMT ≤7.5 mm after achieving pregnancy by IVF/ICSI-ET treatment should warrant more attention to reduce the risk of delivering a LBW newborn.

Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle Habits during Pregnancy: Is There an Association with Small for Gestational Age Infants? An Italian Single Centre Experience

Background. The small-for-gestational-age (SGA) in infants is related to an increased risk of developing Non-Communicable Diseases later in life. The Mediterranean diet (MD) is related to lower odds of being SGA. The study explored retrospectively the association between SGA, maternal MD adherence, lifestyle habits and other SGA risk factors during pregnancy. Methods. One hundred women (16–44 years) with a pregnancy at term were enrolled. Demographic data, parity, pre-gestational BMI, gestational weight gain, pregnancy-related diseases, and type of delivery were collected. The MD adherence (MEDI-LITE score ≥ 9), physical activity level, and smoking/alcohol consumption were registered. SGA neonates were diagnosed according to the neonatal growth curves. Results. Women were divided into “SGA group” vs. “non-SGA group”. The MD was adopted by 71% of women and its adherence was higher in the “non-SGA group” (p = 0.02). The prevalence of pregnancy-related diseases (gestational diabetes/pregnancy-induced hypertension) was higher in the “SGA group” (p = 0.01). The logistic regression showed that pregnancy-related diseases were the only independent risk factor for SGA. Conclusions. MD may indirectly reduce the risk of SGA since it prevents and exerts a positive effect on pregnancy-related diseases (e.g., gestational diabetes and hypertension). The small sample size of women in the SGA group of the study imposes a major limitation to the results and conclusions of this research, suggesting however that it is worthy of further investigation.

Impact of Chronic Hypertension and Antihypertensive Treatment on Adverse Perinatal Outcomes: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Maternal chronic hypertension is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Previous studies examined the association between either chronic hypertension or antihypertensive treatment and adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to synthesize the evidence on the effect of chronic hypertension/antihypertensive treatment on adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods and Results Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched; we included observational studies and assessed the effect of race/ethnicity, where possible, following a registered protocol (CRD42019120088). Random-effects meta-analyses were used. A total of 81 studies were identified on chronic hypertension, and a total of 16 studies were identified on antihypertensive treatment. Chronic hypertension was associated with higher odds of preeclampsia (adjusted odd ratio [aOR], 5.43; 95% CI, 3.85-7.65); cesarean section (aOR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.6-2.16); maternal mortality (aOR, 4.80; 95% CI, 3.04-7.58); preterm birth (aOR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.96-2.53); stillbirth (aOR, 2.32; 95% CI, 2.22-2.42); and small for gestational age (SGA) (aOR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.6-2.40). Subgroup analyses indicated that maternal race/ethnicity does not influence the observed associations. Women with chronic hypertension on antihypertensive treatment (versus untreated) had higher odds of SGA (aOR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.38-2.50). Conclusions Chronic hypertension is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and these associations appear to be independent of maternal race/ethnicity. In women with chronic hypertension, those on treatment had a higher risk of SGA, although the number of studies was limited. This could result from a direct effect of the treatment or because severe hypertension during pregnancy is a risk factor for SGA and women with severe hypertension are more likely to be treated. The effect of antihypertensive treatment on SGA needs to be further tested with large randomized controlled trials.