Prevalence of meconium stained amniotic fluid and its associated factors among women who gave birth at term in Felege Hiwot comprehensive specialized referral hospital, North West Ethiopia: a facility based cross-sectional study

The Environmental Exposures in Lebanese Infants (EELI) birth cohort: an investigation into the Developmental Origins of Health and Diseases (DOHaD)

The EELI Study is a longitudinal birth cohort launched in 2021 in Lebanon to examine the long-term impact of environmental exposures on the health of prospective Lebanese mothers and infants and disease outcomes. This article delineates the adopted study design and protocols, current progress, and contextual considerations for the planning and launching of a birth cohort in a resource-limited setting. A sample of n = 135 pregnant women expecting to give birth at the Hôtel-Dieu de France University Hospital has been recruited since the study launch. Over 500 variables have been recorded for each participant, and over 1000 biological specimens have been processed and stored in a biobank for further analysis. The EELI study establishes methodological and logistic basis to explore the concept of the exposome and its implementation and to establish a toolkit of the SOPs and questionnaires that can be employed by the other countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Adverse Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid in Term Labor at Hospitals in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background

The passage of meconium during labor increased the chance of undesirable birth outcomes. The adverse effects of meconium are worsening in resource-limited countries. In Ethiopia, there is an argument concerning meconium's negative effects and management on pregnant women and their babies. Therefore, this study was intended to assess the adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes of meconium in term labor in the South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted using 580 laboring mothers (145 exposed and 435 nonexposed groups). A two-stage sampling method was implemented to get study subjects. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire and a medical chart review. SPSS version 25 was used for data analysis. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the two groups' differences. The strength of the association was measured using relative risk with a 95% CI.

Result

There was more operative delivery (28.3% versus 5.3%), puerperal sepsis (79.54% versus 2.06%), nonreassuring fetal heart rate pattern (29.7% versus 2.1%), meconium aspiration syndrome (7.58% versus 0.68%), neonatal sepsis (9% versus 4.1%), perinatal asphyxia (13.8% versus 7.6%), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (23.4% versus 3.2%), and early neonatal deaths (4.8% versus 1.4%) among meconium stained groups as compared to the clear amniotic fluid groups.

Conclusion

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid significantly increased adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in Ethiopia. The risk of perinatal asphyxia, nonreassuring fetal heart rate pattern, neonatal sepsis, meconium aspiration syndrome, admission to the NICU, early neonatal death, operative delivery, and puerperal sepsis were significantly higher in meconium-exposed groups. Special attention should be given to meconium-exposed mothers during the intrapartum period and in postnatal follow-up.

Bloody Amniotic Fluid and Neonatal Outcomes

Information on the effect of bloody amniotic fluid during labor at term is scarce. This study assessed risk factors and adverse outcomes in labors with bloody amniotic fluid. During the six years of this study, all nulliparas in our institution, with a trial of labor, were included. Multiple pregnancies and preterm deliveries were excluded. Outcomes were compared between the bloody amniotic fluid group and the clear amniotic fluid group. Overall, 11,252 women were included. Among them, 364 (3.2%) had bloody amniotic fluid and 10,888 (96.7%) had clear amniotic fluid. Women in the bloody amniotic fluid group were characterized by shorter duration of the second stage and higher rate of cesarean section due to non-reassuring fetal heart rate. In addition, there were higher rates of low cord pH (<7.1) and NICU admissions in the bloody amniotic fluid group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, cesarean delivery, cord blood pH < 7.1, and NICU admission were independently associated with increased odds ratio for bloody amniotic fluid. Bloody amniotic fluid at term is associated with adverse outcomes and must be considered during labor.

Adverse birth outcomes and associated factors among newborns delivered in Sao Tome & Principe: A case‒control study

BACKGROUND

Newborns with one-or-more adverse birth outcomes (ABOs) are at greater risk of mortality or long-term morbidity with health impacts into adulthood. Hence, identifying ABO-associated factors is crucial for devising relevant interventions. For this study, ABOs were defined as prematurity (PTB) for gestational age <37 weeks, low birth weight (LBW) <2.5 kg, macrosomia >4 kg, asphyxia for a 5-minute Apgar score <7, congenital anomalies, and neonatal sepsis. This study aimed to assess factors associated with ABOs among babies delivered at the only hospital of Sao Tome & Principe (STP), a resource-constrained sub-Saharan-Central African country.

METHODS

A hospital-based unmatched case‒control study was conducted among newborns from randomly selected mothers. Newborns with one-or-more ABO were the cases (ABO group), while healthy newborns were the controls (no-ABO group). Data were collected by a face-to-face interview and abstracted from antenatal care (ANC) pregnancy cards and medical records. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify ABO-associated factors considering a level of significance of α = 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 519 newborns (176 with ABO and 343 no-ABO) were enrolled. The mean gestational age and birthweight of cases and controls were 36 (SD = 3.7) weeks with 2659 (SD = 881.44) g and 39.6 (SD = 1.0) weeks with 3256 (SD = 345.83) g, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, twin pregnancy [aOR 4.92, 95% CI 2.25-10.74], prolonged rupture of membranes [aOR 3.43, 95% CI 1.69-6.95], and meconium- fluid [aOR 1.59, 95% CI 0.97-2.62] were significantly associated with ABOs. Eight or more ANC contacts were found to be protective [aOR 0.33, 95% CI 0.18-0.60, p<0.001].

CONCLUSION

Modifiable factors were associated with ABOs in this study and should be considered in cost-effective interventions. The provision of high-quality ANC should be a priority. Twin pregnancies and intrapartum factors such as prolonged rupture of membranes and meconium-stained amniotic fluid are red flags for ABOs that should receive prompt intervention and follow-up.

Neonatal Outcomes of Term Infants Born with Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid

Background Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is considered an alarming sign of possible fetal compromise and it has recently been reported that neonatal outcome correlates with the degree of meconium thickness. Methods We retrospectively studied 400 term infants allocated in clear amniotic fluid and grade 1, 2, and 3 MSAF groups on the basis of color and thickness of AF. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the potential independent effect of delivery with MSAF of different severity on the risk of a composite adverse neonatal outcome. Results We found that delivery with grade 2 (OR 16.82, 95% Cl 2.12-33.52; p = 0.008) and 3 (OR 33.79, 95% Cl 4.24-69.33; p < 0.001) MSAF is independently correlated with the risk of adverse neonatal outcome, such as the occurrence of at least one of the following: need of resuscitation in the delivery room, blood cord pH < 7.100, occurrence of meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPH), transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and sepsis. Conclusions There is a positive correlation between the severity of amniotic fluid meconium staining and thickness and the outcomes of term infants. Therefore, the evaluation and grading of MSAF during labor is useful in order to plan for the presence of a neonatologist at delivery for immediate and proper neonatal care.

[The evolution of approach in the resuscitation of neonates born with meconium-stained amniotic fluid: a tale of two countries, China and U.S.A., in the past 60 years]

Neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) may develop complications including meconium aspiration syndrome, persistent pulmonary hypertension of newborn and death. The approach to the resuscitation of these neonates has significantly evolved for the past few decades. Initially, under direct visualization technique, neonates with MSAF were commonly suctioned below the vocal cords soon after delivery. Since 2015, Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP^®) of the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended against "routine" endotracheal suctioning of non-vigorous neonates with MSAF but favored immediate resuscitation with positive pressure ventilation via face-mask bagging. However, the China neonatal resuscitation 2021 guidelines continue to recommend routine endotracheal suctioning of non-vigorous neonates born with MSAF at birth. This review article discusses the differences and the rationales in the approach in the resuscitation of neonates with MSAF between Chinese and American NRP^® guidelines over the past 60 years.

Impact of Thin Meconium on Delivery and Early Neonatal Outcomes

Several reports regarding the effects of thin meconium on maternal and neonatal outcomes are contradictory. This study evaluated the risk factors and obstetrical outcomes during deliveries complicated with thin meconium. This retrospective cohort study included all women with a singleton pregnancy, who underwent trial of labor >24 weeks of gestation, in a single tertiary center, over a six-year period. Obstetrical, delivery, and neonatal outcomes were compared between deliveries with thin meconium (thin meconium group) to deliveries with clear amniotic fluid (control group). Included in the study were 31,536 deliveries. Among them 1946 (6.2%) were in the thin meconium group and 29,590 (93.8%) were controls. Meconium aspiration syndrome was diagnosed in eight neonates in the thin meconium group and in none of the controls (0.41%, p < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the following adverse outcomes were found to be independently associated with increased odds ratio (OR) for thin meconium: intrapartum fever (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.1-1.7), instrumental delivery (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09-1.46), cesarean delivery for non-reassuring fetal heart rate (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.68-2.46), and respiratory distress requiring mechanical ventilation (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.19-3.56). Thin meconium was associated with adverse obstetrical, delivery, and neonatal outcomes that should receive extra neonatal care and alert the pediatrician.

Once We Find Grade III Meconium Stained Amniotic Fluid, Must We Act as Early as Possible?

Background

Grade III meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is a common obstetric disease, and has the greatest impact on poor maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Question or Hypothesis or Aim

There is no consensus on treatment, especially on the timing of delivery.

Methods

We collected the medical records of 345 women who gave birth with grade III MSAF and analyzed the difference in baseline characteristics and maternal and neonatal outcomes relative to different labor stage, observation times in the first stage of labor, and the presence or absence of abnormal fetal heart rate (FHR) or thick amniotic fluid.

Findings

Higher rate of cesarean section was observed when grade III MSAF was found in active labor. Intervention occurred at an observation time of 90-120 min, but there were no significant differences in maternal or neonatal outcomes shown when the observation time was greater than 3 or 4 hours. However, a higher rate of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit was demonstrated in cases with grade III MSAF with abnormal FHR either in the first or second stage of labor or in cases with thick MSAF in the second stage of labor.

Discussion

Higher rate of composite adverse neonatal outcomes was found when secondary MSAF (a transition from clear AF to MSAF) was diagnosed >3 h before delivery.

Conclusion

In the first stage of labor, an observation time of greater than 4 hours might be possible after grade III MSAF is found if the labor has progressed and is without abnormal FHR.

Effect of fetal malposition, primiparous, and premature rupture of membrane on Neonatal Near miss mediated by grade three meconium-stained amniotic fluids and duration of the active first stage of labor: Mediation analysis

BACKGROUND

In many low-income countries, including Ethiopia, neonatal mortality remains a major concern. For every newborn that dies, many more neonates survived (near-miss neonates) the first 28 days after birth from life-threatening conditions. The generation of evidence on neonatal near-miss determinants could be a critical step in reducing neonatal mortality rates. However, studies causal pathway determinants are limited in Ethiopia. This study aimed to investigate the Neonatal Near-miss determinants in public health hospitals in Amhara Regional State, northwest Ethiopia.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1277 mother-newborn pairs at six hospitals between July 2021 and January 2022. A validated interviewer-administered questionnaire and a review of medical records were used to collect data. Data were entered into Epi-Info version 7.1.2 and exported to STATA version 16 in California, America for analysis. The paths from exposure variables to Neonatal Near-Miss via mediators were examined using multiple logistic regression analysis. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and ß-coefficients were calculated and reported with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value of 0.05.

RESULTS

The proportion of neonatal near-misses was 28.6% (365/1277) (95% CI: 26-31%). Women who could not read and write (AOR = 1.67,95%CI:1.14-2.47), being primiparous (AOR = 2.48,95% CI:1.63-3.79), pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR = 2.10,95% CI:1.49-2.95),being referred from other health facilities (AOR = 2.28,95% CI:1.88-3.29), premature rupture of membrane (AOR = 1.47,95% CI:1.09-1.98), and fetal malposition (AOR = 1.89,95% CI:1.14-3.16) were associated with Neonatal Near-miss. Grade III meconium stained amniotic fluid partially mediated the relationship between primiparous (ß = 0.517), fetal malposition (ß = 0.526), pregnant women referred from other health facilities (ß = 0.948) and Neonatal Near-Miss at P-value < 0.01. Duration of the active first stage of labour partially mediated the relationship between primiparous (ß = -0.345), fetal malposition (ß = -0.656), premature rupture of membranes (ß = -0.550) and Neonatal Near-Miss at P- value <0.01.It had also a significant indirect effect (ß = 0.581, P<0.001) on NNM with variables (primiparous, fetal malposition, and premature rupture of membranes).

CONCLUSIONS

The relationship between fetal malposition, primiparous, referred from other health facilities, premature rupture of membrane, and Neonatal Near miss were partially mediated by grade III meconium stained amniotic fluid and duration of the active first stage of labour. Early diagnosis of these potential danger signs and appropriate intervention could be of supreme importance in reducing NNM.

Predictors of Repeat Cesarean Section in Women with One Previous Lower Segment Cesarean Section: A Retrospective Study from Malaysia

Background

The rates of repeat cesarean section (CS) among women with previous CS are increasing worldwide. The predictors of a repeat CS can vary across different populations.

Objective

To determine the predictors of repeat CS among women from Malaysia with one previous lower segment CS (LSCS) who underwent trial of labor (TOLAC).

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included women with one previous LSCS who followed up and delivered their current pregnancy at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Kelantan, Malaysia, between January 01, 2016, and December 31, 2017. Women with singleton pregnancies were included while those who had a history of classical CS, current pregnancy with preterm birth, non-cephalic pregnancy, lethal fetal anomalies, uterine rupture, and severe preeclampsia or planned for elective CS were excluded. Logistic regressions were performed.

Results

The study included 388 women who underwent TOLAC and successfully gave childbirth through vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) (n = 194) or emergency LSCS (n = 194). Factors significantly associated with repeat CS were no history of vaginal delivery (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.71; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.60, 4.60; P < 0.001), estimated fetal weight ≥3500 grams (aOR: 4.78; 95% CI: 2.45-9.34; P < 0.001), and presence of meconium-stained liquor (aOR: 2.40; 95% CI: 1.33-4.35; P = 0.004).

Conclusion

The above-mentioned predictors of a repeat CS among women from Malaysia with one previous LSCS who underwent TOLAC can be useful for clinicians in making an informed decision.

Epidemiology and risk factors for acquiring and predicting disease severity in meconium aspiration syndrome

Background. Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) occurs in approximately 5% of babies born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Risk factors associated with severity of MAS in neonates from developing countries has been infrequently described.  Objective. To identify incidence and risk factors associated with the severity of MAS in a lower middle-income country.  Method. A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted on records of neonates diagnosed with MAS at four regional hospitals in the eThekwini district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2017.  Results. A total of 187 neonates had been diagnosed with MAS, of whom 157 survived. The overall incidence of MAS was 2 per 1 000 live births. All the neonates were born through thick meconium. The majority (n=119, 63.6%) of patients were male. Asphyxia was documented in 97 cases (51.9%) and was significantly associated with severe disease (p<0.001). Seizures were noted in 91patients (48.7%), of which 86 (94.5%) occurred in neonates with asphyxia. A quarter of the sample (n=47, 25%) were outborn, with severe disease associated significantly with this group (p=0.025). Multiple logistic regression showed that the occurrence of seizures was significantly associated with severe MAS, (adjusted odds ratio = 23.7, 95% confidence interval 7.58 - 97.7; p<0.001).  Conclusion. Neonates born through thick meconium, with moderate to severe asphyxia that is associated with seizures are at increased risk of developing severe MAS. Close monitoring of labour in the intrapartum period, early recognition of fetal distress and timely obstetric intervention are crucial to prevent asphyxia. 

The incidence and risk factors of meconium amniotic fluid in singleton pregnancies: an experience of a tertiary hospital in Iran

BACKGROUND

Several common maternal or neonatal risk factors have been linked to meconium amniotic fluid (MAF) development; however, the results are contradictory, depending on the study. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of MAF in singleton pregnancies.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective cohort that assessed singleton pregnant mothers who gave birth at a tertiary hospital in Bandar Abbas, Iran, between January 1st, 2020, and January 1st, 2022. Mothers were divided into two groups: 1) those diagnosed with meconium amniotic fluid (MAF) and 2) those diagnosed with clear amniotic fluid. Mothers with bloody amniotic fluid were excluded. Demographic factors, obstetrical factors, and maternal comorbidities were extracted from the electronic data of each mother. The Chi-square test was used to compare differences between the groups for categorical variables. Logistic regression models were used to assess meconium amniotic fluid risk factors.

RESULTS

Of 8888 singleton deliveries during the study period, 1085 (12.2%) were MAF. MAF was more common in adolescents, mothers with postterm pregnancy, and primiparous mothers, and it was less common in mothers with GDM and overt diabetes. The odds of having MAF in adolescents were three times higher than those in mothers 20-34 years old (aOR: 3.07, 95% CI: 1.87-4.98). Likewise, there were significantly increased odds of MAF in mothers with late-term pregnancy (aOR: 5.12, 95% CI: 2.76-8.94), and mothers with post-term pregnancy (aOR: 7.09, 95% CI: 3.92-9.80). Primiparous women were also more likely than multiparous mothers to have MAF (aOR: 3.41, 95% CI: 2.11-4.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents, primiparous mothers, and mothers with post-term pregnancies had a higher risk of MAF. Maternal comorbidities resulting in early termination of pregnancy can reduce the incidence of MAF.

Neonates Born Through Meconium-stained Amniotic Fluid among Deliveries in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Introduction

The mortality and morbidity of meconium aspiration syndrome in neonates born with meconium-stained amniotic fluid in developing countries are still high. In Nepal, few studies have estimated the prevalence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid among newborns. The study aimed to find out the prevalence of neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid among deliveries in a tertiary care centre.

Methods

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among neonates born in a tertiary care centre from November 2021 to March 2022. Neonates born during the study period with meconium-stained amniotic fluid were studied. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee. Convenience sampling method was used. With permission from the Department of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the data were collected and entered in a Microsoft Excel sheet. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.

Results

Among 576 neonates, the prevalence of neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid was 77 (13.37%) (10.59-16.15, 95% Confidence Interval).

Conclusions

The prevalence of neonates born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid was found to be similar to other studies done in similar settings.

Keywords

meconium; neonate; Nepal.

Determinants of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid at Hadiya Zone Hospitals, Southern Ethiopia; Unmatched Case-Control Study

Background

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) refers to an amniotic fluid that is green in color or mixed with meconium. MSAF leads to a serious maternal complication that increases the likelihood of operative delivery and poses a hazard to the fetus or the neonate. This in turn enhances the chances of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. So, the identification of determinants helps to breach this vicious cycle. The current study aimed to assess the determinants of MSAF.

Methods

An institution-based, unmatched case-control study with a sample size of 363 participants (121 cases and 242 controls) was conducted on mothers who gave birth at Hadiya zone public hospitals between March and April 2020. A proportionate distribution was made to each facility depending on the volume of patients, and cases and control mothers were chosen sequentially. The data was gathered through in-person interviews and secondary data extraction. In multivariable logistic regression, variables with (p < 0.25) in bivariate analysis were included. After multivariable logistic regression was finished, statistical significance was declared at (p < 0.05).

Results

A total of 121 cases and 242 controls were included in this study Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that gestational age ≥ 41 week (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI: 1.02–11.63), premature rupture of membrane (AOR = 3.71, 95% CI: 1.98–6.93) obstructed labor (AOR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.15–7.33) preeclampsia (AOR = 4.16, 95% CI: 1.29–13.35) and non-reassuring fetal heart rate (AOR = 6.75, 95% CI: 3.45–13.19) were significantly associated with MSAF.

Conclusion

Advanced gestational age, an early membrane rupture, an obstructed labor, preeclampsia, and non-reassuring fetal heart rate all increase the incidence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid in laboring mothers. Making every effort to prevent, identify, and treat those obstetric determinants as early as feasible should be taken into consideration throughout follow-up of pregnancy, labor, and delivery could assist to lower the incidence of MSAF.

Determinants of meconium aspiration syndrome among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at Nigist Eleni Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, South Ethiopia: Unmatched case-control study

Objective:

To identify determinants of meconium aspiration syndrome among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Nigist Eleni Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, South Ethiopia, in 2022.

Method:

A facility-based unmatched case–control study was used to identify meconium aspiration syndrome with a total sample size of 249 from January to April 2022. Data were entered by using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 24 software. Descriptive findings were presented by frequency tables and percentages. Multicollinearity was checked and the goodness of fit test was done. To determine the independent determinants associated with meconium aspiration syndrome, bivariate analysis was done and variables with a p value of <0.05 were taken to multivariate logistic regression analysis. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated, and statistical significance was declared at a p value less than 0.05.

Result:

Two hundred forty-nine (83 cases and 166 controls) mothers with their respective neonates were included in this study and that made the overall response rate 100%. Preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio: 3.35, 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 10.97), antepartum hemorrhage (adjusted odds ratio: 3.63, 95% confidence interval: 1.50, 8.78), duration of labor (adjusted odds ratio: 4.34, 95% confidence interval: 1.83, 10.30), premature rupture of membrane (adjusted odds ratio: 16.02, 95% confidence interval: 5.66, 45.29), and obstructed labor (adjusted odds ratio: 4.57, 95% confidence interval: 1.42, 14.70) were determinants of meconium aspiration syndrome.

Conclusion:

In this study, preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, duration of labor, premature rupture of membrane, and obstructed labor were determinants of meconium aspiration syndrome. Therefore, to reduce the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome, prevention, early identification, and management of these obstetrical factors may help to reduce meconium aspiration syndrome locally.

Meconium-stained Amniotic Fluid among Term Deliveries in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Introduction

Although the precise aetiology of meconium-stained amniotic fluid is still unclear, risk factors include advanced gestational age at delivery, mode of delivery, the prolonged second stage of labour, and intrauterine infection. It has been associated with poor perinatal outcomes including low Apgar scores, increased incidence of neonatal intensive care admission, and a high rate of perinatal death. The objective of the study was to find out the prevalence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid in term deliveries in a tertiary care centre.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was done among term deliveries in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, in a tertiary care centre from inpatient records starting from 1 November 2019 to 1 November 2020 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: PMG1911281316). Convenience sampling was done. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.

Results

Out of 1699 term deliveries, meconium-stained amniotic fluid was seen in 91 (5.35%) (4.28-6.42, 95% Confidence Interval). Among these 69 (75.82%) newborns were delivered through lower segment caesarean section and 61 (67%) newborns had Grade II meconium-stained amniotic fluid.

Conclusions

The prevalence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid was similar to the studies done in similar settings.

Keywords

apgar score; caesarean section; gestational age; perinatal death; pregnancy.

Impact of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid on Neonatal Outcome in a Tertiary Hospital

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the perinatal outcome of pregnant patients complicated with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) compared with clear amniotic fluid.

Methodology

This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in collaboration with the Department of Pediatrics at Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India, from September 2016 to January 2018. A total of 200 patients were included in the study after taking their written consent. Out of these 200 patients, 100 patients had MSAF, and the other 100 patients with clear liquor were taken as controls after fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These two groups of patients were compared regarding various maternal and neonatal parameters. These parameters were compared and tested statistically for significance.

Results

Among the 100 patients with MSAF, 20 patients had grade 1 meconium (X), 22 patients had grade 2 meconium (Y), and 58 patients had grade 3 meconium (Z). The majority of patients in the MSAF group were primigravida and more than 25 years of age. In addition, 47% of patients in the MSAF group had some associated high-risk factors and 50% of patients had non-reassuring fetal heart rate patterns, and among these, 39 patients had grade 3 MSAF (X). In the MSAF group, 49% of patients had undergone lower segment cesarean section (LSCS), whereas in the non-MSAF group, it was 37%. Also, 30% of babies in the MSAF group and 13% in the non-MSAF group had neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission; 22% of babies in the MSAF group and 12% of babies in the non-MSAF group had an adverse neonatal outcome. Meconium aspiration syndrome was present in 14% of the patients in the MSAF group, and among these, two babies had neonatal death and both had severe birth asphyxia. In the non-MSAF group, there was one neonatal death due to neonatal sepsis. However, after statistically analyzing the neonatal outcome in both the groups, there was no statistical difference between the two groups (p<0.001).

Conclusion

MSAF is associated with increased frequency of operative delivery, poor neonatal outcomes, and increased NICU admission. Management of labor with MSAF requires appropriate intrapartum care with continuous fetal heart rate monitoring, and this can reduce unnecessary cesarean sections in patients with MSAF.

Intrapartum care algorithms for liquor abnormalities: oligohydramnios, meconium, blood and purulent discharge

AIM

To construct evidence-based algorithms for the assessment and management of common amniotic fluid abnormalities detected during labour.

POPULATION

Low-risk singleton, term pregnant women in labour.

SETTING

Birth facilities in low- and middle-income countries.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched international guidelines published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SOGC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We also searched The Cochrane Library and MEDLINE up to 20 January 2020 using keywords for relevant systematic reviews and randomised trials.

CASE SCENARIOS

We developed evidence-based intrapartum care algorithms for four case scenarios: oligohydramnios; meconium-stained amniotic fluid; bloody amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding; and purulent amniotic fluid or discharge. These conditions may be associated with fetal and /or maternal morbidity. Differential diagnosis includes uteroplacental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, fetal distress, abruption, placenta or vasa praevia, uterine rupture and intra-amniotic infection, respectively. Algorithms include how to assess for, diagnose and manage these conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Four algorithms are presented, to provide a systematic approach and guidance on the clinical management for the following amniotic fluid abnormalities: oligohydramnios; meconium-stained liquor; bloody amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding; and purulent amniotic fluid or discharge. These algorithms may be beneficial in supporting clinical decision making, particularly in low-resource settings.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Evidence based algorithms for management of common amniotic fluid abnormalities seen during labour.

Subsequent perinatal outcomes of pregnancy with two consecutive pregnancies with gestational diabetes mellitus: A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is glucose intolerance diagnosed during pregnancy. We aimed to explore the different outcomes of women with two consecutive pregnancies with GDM.

METHODS

This study included 861 women with recurrent GDM who had two consecutive singleton deliveries at Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital between May 2012 and September 2020. Data on pregnancy complications and neonatal and delivery outcomes were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among those women with recurrent GDM, there was no difference in pregnancy complications in index pregnancy vs subsequent pregnancy. Our data revealed there was a significantly higher incidence of thyroid disease in the subsequent pregnancies than in the index pregnancy. (6% vs 10%, p = .003)In subsequent pregnancies, the birth weight was greater than that of the index pregnancy (3296.63 ± 16.85 vs 3348.99 ± 16.05, p = .025); and the incidence of large for gestational age (LGA) was higher than that of the index pregnancy (16.3% vs 20.6%, p = .021). More cesarean sections occurred in the subsequent pregnancy. (32.9% vs 6.6%, p = .039). Postpartum hemorrhage, premature birth, and placental abruption were not significantly different between the two pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest the effect of GDM on thyroid dysfunction may be persistent. Recurrent gestational diabetes results in a higher rate of cesarean delivery, incidence of LGA, and neonatal admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in subsequent pregnancies. We need to pay attention to the postpartum thyroid function of pregnant women with GDM. Further studies are still needed on recurrent GDM to reduce this occurrence of admission to NICU.

Medicine Dose Adjustment Practice and Associated Factors among Renally Impaired Patients in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

Background

Kidney disease affects absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of medicines and their metabolites. Therefore, when prescribing medicines for patients with kidney disease, dose adjustment is an accepted standard of practice.

Objective

This study aimed to assess medicine dose adjustment practice and associated factors among adult patients with renal impairment admitted to medical wards at Amhara region referral hospitals.

Method

Multicenter, institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from March 28, 2020, to August 30, 2020. The data was collected by using a pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Data were entered into Epi-Data version 4.6 and transferred into SPSS version 25 for further data processing and analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were computed. Both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were fitted to identify factors associated with dose adjustment practice. A 95% confidence interval and a p value less than 0.05 were used to declare statistical significance.

Result

Among 815 medicines' prescriptions that needed dose adjustment, 417 (51.2%) of them were dosed inappropriately. Number of medicines, number of comorbidities, and being unemployed were significantly associated with inappropriate dose adjustment.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that there was a considerable rate of inappropriate dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment. Training for health care providers, use of guidelines, and communication with clinical pharmacists should be encouraged for good prescription practice.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid in a Tertiary Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background. Fetal bowel could pass meconium, a green viscous fluid, before or during labour and most intrauterine passage of meconium is associated with several fetomaternal factors that lead to increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Given that there is a paucity of data, this study was conducted to assess the proportion and associated factors of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) in women who came for labour and delivery service in a tertiary hospital. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 June to 31 August 2018 among 606 labouring mothers at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, northwest Ethiopia. Study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered pretested questionnaire and data checklist. Factors associated with MSAF were explored using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results. MSAF occurred in 24.6% (149/606) of pregnancies. Nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 21.9, 95% Confidence interval [95% CI]: 10.96–43.83), postterm pregnancy (AOR: 4.54, 95% CI: 2.24–9.20), duration of labour more than 15 hours (AOR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.76–4.53), pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.45–4.05), oligohydramnios (AOR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.25–5.12), interpregnancy interval less than 2 years (AOR: 2.24, 95% CI: 1.12–4.51), and monthly family income less than 5000 Ethiopian Birr (185 USD) (AOR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.18–3.51) were significantly associated with MSAF. Conclusions. In this study, the proportion of MSAF was at 24.6% which was higher than a previous report in Ethiopia. Nonreassuring fetal heart rate pattern, postterm pregnancy, duration of labour more than 15 hours, pregnancy-induced hypertension, oligohydramnios, interpregnancy interval less than 2 years, and monthly family income less than 5000 Ethiopian Birr were factors associated with an increased risk for MSAF. Therefore, interventions aimed at detecting MSAF early should consider these factors.

Factors associated with obstetric interventions in public maternity hospitals

Abstract Objectives: to identify the prevalence and factors associated with obstetric interventions in parturients assisted in public maternity hospitals. Methods: a cross-sectional study with 344 puerperal women, from two public maternity hospitals, referring to childbirth by Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) (Public Health Service System) in Londrina City, Paraná, Brazil, between January and June 2017. The medical records were the data source. The following obstetric interventions were considered: oxytocin use, artificial rupture of the membranes, instrumental childbirth and episiotomy. Multivariate Poisson regression was used to analyze associated factors, with p<5% being significant. Results: the prevalence of obstetric intervention was 55.5%, the maximum number of interventions in the same parturient woman was three. The most frequent interventions were the use of oxytocin (50.0%) and artificial rupture of membranes (29.7%). The variables associated on maternal disease (p=0.005) and intrapartum meconium (p=0.022) independently increased, the risk of obstetric intervention, while dilation was equal to or greater than 5 cm at admission, there was a protective factor against this outcome (p=0.030). Conclusion: the prevalence of obstetric interventions was high. In the case of maternal disease and intrapartum meconium, special attention should be given to the parturient woman, in order to avoid unnecessary interventions. Thus, the maternity hospitals need to review their protocols, seeking good practices in childbirth care.

A Randomized Trial of Laryngeal Mask Airway in Neonatal Resuscitation

BACKGROUND

Face-mask ventilation is the most common resuscitation method for birth asphyxia. Ventilation with a cuffless laryngeal mask airway (LMA) has potential advantages over face-mask ventilation during neonatal resuscitation in low-income countries, but whether the use of an LMA reduces mortality and morbidity among neonates with asphyxia is unknown.

METHODS

In this phase 3, open-label, superiority trial in Uganda, we randomly assigned neonates who required positive-pressure ventilation to be treated by a midwife with an LMA or with face-mask ventilation. All the neonates had an estimated gestational age of at least 34 weeks, an estimated birth weight of at least 2000 g, or both. The primary outcome was a composite of death within 7 days or admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with moderate-to-severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy at day 1 to 5 during hospitalization.

RESULTS

Complete follow-up data were available for 99.2% of the neonates. A primary outcome event occurred in 154 of 563 neonates (27.4%) in the LMA group and 144 of 591 (24.4%) in the face-mask group (adjusted relative risk, 1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90 to 1.51; P = 0.26). Death within 7 days occurred in 21.7% of the neonates in the LMA group and 18.4% of those in the face-mask group (adjusted relative risk, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.90 to 1.63), and admission to the NICU with moderate-to-severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy at day 1 to 5 during hospitalization occurred in 11.2% and 10.1%, respectively (adjusted relative risk, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.93). Findings were materially unchanged in a sensitivity analysis in which neonates with missing data were counted as having had a primary outcome event in the LMA group and as not having had such an event in the face-mask group. The frequency of predefined intervention-related adverse events was similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In neonates with asphyxia, the LMA was safe in the hands of midwives but was not superior to face-mask ventilation with respect to early neonatal death and moderate-to-severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. (Funded by the Research Council of Norway and the Center for Intervention Science in Maternal and Child Health; NeoSupra ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03133572.).

Predictors of chest drainage of pneumothorax in neonates

This is a retrospective, single-center observational study to explore the predictors of chest drainage for neonatal pneumothorax. A total of 183 neonates (age ≤28 days) who presented to the Children's Hospital of Soochow University between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018 for pneumothorax or developed pneumothorax during a hospital stay were included. Demographic data, clinical presentation, and imaging characteristics of neonatal pneumothorax were collected and analyzed. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to determine significant predictors of chest drainage of pneumothorax in neonates. Pneumothorax occurred within 24 h after birth in 131 (71.6%) cases, between 24 and 48 h after birth in 41 (22.4%) cases, and 48 h after birth in 11 (6.0%) cases. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that lung collapse ≥1/3 on initial chest X-ray (OR 4.99, 95%CI 2.25-11.07), chest retractions (OR 8.12, 95%CI 2.88-22.89), cyanosis (OR 2.25, 95%CI 1.08-4.66), and frothing from mouth (OR 2.49, 95%CI 1.12-5.49) (P<0.05 for all) were significant predictors of the need for chest drainage due to pneumothorax. In conclusion, the thorough evaluation of the above predictive factors can guide treatment and improve patient outcome.

Prevalence of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane and Its Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Admitted in Debre Tabor General Hospital, North West Ethiopia: Institutional-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background

In Ethiopia, preterm premature rupture of membrane is defined as loss of amniotic fluid before the onset of labor in pregnancy >28 weeks of gestation but before 37 weeks. It is a significant cause of perinatal, neonatal, and maternal morbidity and mortality both in high- and low-income countries. Due to different factors associated with the quality of health care given and socioeconomic factors, the effect of preterm premature rupture of membrane is worsen in low-income countries. Little evidence is available about the problem in the study area. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the prevalence of preterm premature rupture of membrane and its associated factors among pregnant women admitted in Debre Tabor General Hospital.

Methods

Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 424 mothers were included in the study. Systematic random sampling was used to select study participants. A combination of chart review and interview was used to collect the data. Both descriptive and analytical statistics were computed.

Result

The prevalence of preterm premature rupture of membrane was found to be 13.7%. Pregnant women with abnormal vaginal discharge (AOR = 5.30, 95% CI  = 2.07-13.52), urinary tract infection (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.32-5.19), history of premature rupture of membrane (AOR = 3.31, 95% CI = 1.32-8.27), vaginal bleeding (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.14-5.82), and mid-upper arm circumference <23 cm (AOR = 6.26, 95% CI = 3.21-12.20) were associated with preterm premature rupture of membrane.

Conclusions

The prevalence of preterm premature rupture of membrane was high. Abnormal vaginal discharge, urinary tract infection, vaginal bleeding, previous premature rupture of membrane, and mid-upper arm circumference <23 cm were associated with preterm premature rupture of membrane. Thus, early screening and treatment of urinary tract infections and abnormal vaginal discharges were recommended to reduce the risk of preterm premature rupture of membrane.

The effect of meconium thickness level on neonatal outcome

BACKGROUND

Despite its prevalence and potential maternal and neonatal implications, the literature on the thickness levels of meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and its impact on neonatal outcomes is relatively outdated and relies on relatively small sample sizes.

AIMS

To study if different thickness levels of MSAF correlate with adverse neonatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

The medical records and neonatal charts of all women with a singleton pregnancy, who underwent a trial of labor, at 37 + 0/7 weeks or beyond, between 10/2008 and 7/2018 were reviewed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The cohort was divided according to the level of meconium reported during labor into four groups: Clear (C group), Light meconium (LM group), Intermediate meconium (IM group), and Heavy meconium (HM group). Composite neonatal outcome included at least one of the following: umbilical artery pH ≤ 7.1, sepsis, need for blood transfusion, need for phototherapy, respiratory distress syndrome, meconium aspiration syndrome, need for mechanical ventilation support, necrotizing enterocolitis, intraventricular hemorrhage, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, periventricular leukomalacia, seizures, hypoglycemia, hypothermia, and death. Continuous parameters were compared with Anova's test or Kruskal Wallis, and categorical variables by chi-square test or Fisher exact test, as appropriate. Multivariant logistic regression was performed in order to eliminate possible cofounders.

RESULTS

Overall, 24,445 deliveries were reviewed (C-20,185, LM-1074, IM-2736, HM-450). Composite adverse neonatal outcome was more common with increasing thickness of MSAF. On multivariable analysis, IM and HM were independently associated with composite adverse neonatal outcome.

CONCLUSION

The degree of meconium thickness independently correlates with composite adverse neonatal outcome.

Amniotic fluid transitioning from clear to meconium stained during labor-prevalence and association with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to compare pregnancy outcomes in deliveries complicated by primary meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF, present at membrane rupture) and secondary MSAF (transitioned from clear to MSAF during labor).

METHODS

The medical records and neonatal charts of all deliveries ≥ 37^0/7 weeks between October 2008 and July 2018 were reviewed. The primary outcome was composite adverse neonatal outcome that included early neonatal complications.

RESULTS

Of 30,215 deliveries during the study period, 4302 (14.2 %) were included: 3845 (89.4%) in the primary MSAF group and 457 (10.6%) in the secondary MSAF group. The rate of the primary outcome was higher in the secondary MSAF group (p = 0.006). This association remained significant after controlling for background confounders. The secondary MSAF group had higher rate of cesarean deliveries (CDs) and assisted vaginal deliveries. There was a higher rate of composite adverse neonatal outcome when secondary MSAF was diagnosed < 3 vs. >3 h before delivery (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Secondary MSAF was associated with higher rates of adverse neonatal outcome, CDs, and assisted vaginal deliveries, compared with primary MSAF.

Retrospective analysis of risk factors for low 1-minute Apgar scores in term neonates

The current study was designed to investigate the perinatal risk factors for low 1-min Apgar scores in term neonates. We retrospectively analyzed the maternal and neonatal clinical data of 10,550 infants who were born through vaginal delivery from 37 weeks 0 days to 41 weeks 6 days of single gestation from January 2013 to July 2018. Because the 1-min Apgar score reflects neonatal status at birth, we analyzed the risk factors for low (score <7) 1-min Apgar scores through logistic regression. Among these 10,550 neonates, 339 (3.2%) had low (score <7) 1-min Apgar scores. Among them, 321 (94.7%) were admitted to the neonatology department for further observation or treatment. Multivariate analysis revealed that educational background, body mass index, gestational age, pathological obstetrics, longer duration of the second stage of labor, forceps delivery or vacuum extraction, neonatal weight, neonatal sex, and meconium-stained amniotic fluid were independent risk factors for 1-min Apgar scores <7. Neonates who had low 1-min Apgar scores were more frequently admitted to the neonatology department for further observation or treatment. Early detection of risk factors and timely intervention to address these factors may improve neonatal outcomes at birth and reduce the rate of admission to the neonatology department.