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Ayala K, Huynh C, Voegtline K, Rutherford HJ. Made to move: A review of measurement strategies to characterize heterogeneity in normal fetal movement. Infant Behav Dev 2024; 75:101949. [PMID: 38663329 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2024.101949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Fetal movement is a crucial indicator of fetal well-being. Characteristics of fetal movement vary across gestation, posing challenges for researchers to determine the most suitable assessment of fetal movement for their study. We summarize the current measurement strategies used to assess fetal movement and conduct a comprehensive review of studies utilizing these methods. We critically evaluate various measurement approaches including subjective maternal perception, ultrasound, Doppler ultrasound, wearable technology, magnetocardiograms, and magnetic resonance imaging, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. We discuss the challenges of accurately capturing fetal movement, which is influenced by factors such as differences in recording times, gestational ages, sample sizes, environmental conditions, subjective perceptions, and characterization across studies. We also highlight the clinical implications of heterogeneity in fetal movement assessment for monitoring fetal behavior, predicting adverse outcomes, and improving maternal attachment to the fetus. Lastly, we propose potential areas of future research to overcome the current gaps and challenges in measuring and characterizing abnormal fetal movement. Our review contributes to the growing body of literature on fetal movement assessment and provides insights into the methodological considerations and potential applications for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Ayala
- Yale University, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale Child Study Center, USA.
| | - Christina Huynh
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, USA.
| | - Kristin Voegtline
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, USA; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, USA.
| | - Helena Jv Rutherford
- Yale University, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale Child Study Center, USA.
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2
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Silver RM, Reddy U. Stillbirth: we can do better. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00628-8. [PMID: 38789073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Stillbirth is far too common, occurring in millions of pregnancies per year globally. The rate of stillbirth (defined as death of a fetus prior to birth at 20 weeks' gestation or more) in the United States is 5.73 per 1000. This is approximately 1 in 175 pregnancies accounting for about 21,000 stillbirths per year. Although rates are much higher in low-income countries, the stillbirth rate in the United States is much higher than most high resource countries. Moreover, there are substantial disparities in stillbirth, with rates twice as high for non-Hispanic Black and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders compared to non-Hispanic Whites. There is considerable opportunity for reduction in stillbirths, even in high resource countries such as the United States. In this article, we review the epidemiology, risk factors, causes, evaluation, medical and emotional management, and prevention of stillbirth. We focus on novel data regarding genetic etiologies, placental assessment, risk stratification, and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Silver
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Divisions of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT.
| | - Uma Reddy
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Divisions of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY
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3
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Bradford BF, Hayes DJL, Damhuis S, Shub A, Akselsson A, Radestad I, Heazell AEP, Flenady V, Gordijn SJ. Decreased fetal movements: Report from the International Stillbirth Alliance conference workshop. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 165:579-585. [PMID: 38064233 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Maternal reports of decreased fetal movement (DFM) are a common reason to present to maternity care and are associated with stillbirth and other adverse outcomes. Promoting awareness of fetal movements and prompt assessment of DFM has been recommended to reduce stillbirths. However, evidence to guide clinical management of such presentations is limited. Educational approaches to increasing awareness of fetal movements in pregnant women and maternity care providers with the aim of reducing stillbirths have recently been evaluated in a several large clinical trials internationally. The International Stillbirth Alliance Virtual Conference in Sydney 2021 provided an opportunity for international experts in fetal movements to share reports on the findings of fetal movement awareness trials, consider evidence for biological mechanisms linking DFM and fetal death, appraise approaches to clinical assessment of DFM, and highlight research priorities in this area. Following this workshop summaries of the sessions prepared by the authors provide an overview of understandings of fetal movements in maternity care at the current time and highlights future directions in fetal movement research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billie F Bradford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Center of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Dexter J L Hayes
- Tommy's Stillbirth Research Center, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Stefanie Damhuis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexis Shub
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Vicki Flenady
- Center of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sanne J Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Bertholdt C, Dap M, Guerby P. Concerns regarding the analysis of studies on reduced fetal movements. Midwifery 2024; 132:103764. [PMID: 37393108 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2023.103764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C Bertholdt
- University of Lorraine, CHRU NANCY, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, F-54000, NANCY, France; University of Lorraine, INSERM U1254, IADI, F-54000 NANCY, France.
| | - M Dap
- University of Lorraine, CHRU NANCY, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, F-54000, NANCY, France; University of Lorraine, INSERM U1254, IADI, F-54000 NANCY, France
| | - P Guerby
- Obstetrics Department, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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5
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Andrén A, Lindgren H, Akselsson A, Rådestad I, Erlandsson K. One size does not fit all: Perspectives from Swedish midwives on fetal movement counselling. Women Birth 2024; 37:101621. [PMID: 38688145 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.101621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Migration continues to play a role in determining health outcomes related to pregnancy and childbirth in Sweden. BACKGROUND Migrant women have, compared to Swedish-born women, increased risks of adverse birth outcomes. Previous research suggests that migrant women seek care for decreased fetal movements less than Swedish-born women. Given these documented risks, understanding midwives' perspectives in this context is crucial to address maternal health inequities. AIM To explore midwives' experiences conveying information about fetal movement to migrant women in antenatal healthcare settings. METHODS Semi-structured, individual interviews with midwives (n=15) experienced in providing information about fetal movements to migrant women. The interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. FINDINGS The midwives' efforts to compensate for the deficiencies within the antenatal healthcare organisation and to ensure that all women received access to information and care regarding fetal movements are described in four themes: (a) building a trusting relationship; (b) empowering women through guidance and support; (c) overcoming communication challenges; and d) navigating safety measures. DISCUSSION Our findings suggest that the standard antenatal care programme does not support midwives to provide holistic and individualised care that aligns with midwifery care philosophy. CONCLUSION To reduce health inequities for migrant women, this study highlights the need for more flexible guidelines within the standard antenatal care programme. These guidelines should prioritise the individual woman's needs over institutional protocols, acknowledge the midwife-woman relationship as the core of midwifery practice and support midwives to build a partnership with women through continuity of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Andrén
- Department of Health Promoting Science, Sophiahemmet University, Valhallavägen 91, Stockholm SE-114 28, Sweden.
| | - Helena Lindgren
- Department of Health Promoting Science, Sophiahemmet University, Valhallavägen 91, Stockholm SE-114 28, Sweden; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Tomtebodavägen 18A, Solna SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Anna Akselsson
- Department of Health Promoting Science, Sophiahemmet University, Valhallavägen 91, Stockholm SE-114 28, Sweden
| | - Ingela Rådestad
- Department of Health Promoting Science, Sophiahemmet University, Valhallavägen 91, Stockholm SE-114 28, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Erlandsson
- School of Health and Welfare, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, Falun SE-791 88, Sweden
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Ferraro ZM, Silverberg OM, Kingdom JC, Shirreff L. Cordon ombilical coincé dans une présentation du siège en mode des pieds avec diminution des mouvements fœtaux. CMAJ 2024; 196:E352-E354. [PMID: 38499301 PMCID: PMC10948184 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.221264-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Ferraro
- Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), Université de Toronto; Département de médecine (Ferraro, Silverberg), Université de Toronto; Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Kingdom, Shirreff), Hôpital Mount Sinai, Toronto, Ont
| | - Orli M Silverberg
- Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), Université de Toronto; Département de médecine (Ferraro, Silverberg), Université de Toronto; Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Kingdom, Shirreff), Hôpital Mount Sinai, Toronto, Ont
| | - John C Kingdom
- Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), Université de Toronto; Département de médecine (Ferraro, Silverberg), Université de Toronto; Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Kingdom, Shirreff), Hôpital Mount Sinai, Toronto, Ont
| | - Lindsay Shirreff
- Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), Université de Toronto; Département de médecine (Ferraro, Silverberg), Université de Toronto; Département d'obstétrique et de gynécologie (Kingdom, Shirreff), Hôpital Mount Sinai, Toronto, Ont.
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7
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Ferraro ZM, Silverberg OM, Kingdom JC, Shirreff L. Cord entrapment in a footling breech presentation with decreased fetal movements. CMAJ 2023; 195:E1577-E1579. [PMID: 38011923 PMCID: PMC10681679 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.221264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary M Ferraro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), University of Toronto; Department of Medicine (Ferraro, Silverberg), University of Toronto; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Kingdom, Shirreff), Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ont
| | - Orli M Silverberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), University of Toronto; Department of Medicine (Ferraro, Silverberg), University of Toronto; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Kingdom, Shirreff), Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ont
| | - John C Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), University of Toronto; Department of Medicine (Ferraro, Silverberg), University of Toronto; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Kingdom, Shirreff), Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ont
| | - Lindsay Shirreff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Ferraro, Silverberg, Kingdom, Shirreff), University of Toronto; Department of Medicine (Ferraro, Silverberg), University of Toronto; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Kingdom, Shirreff), Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ont.
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8
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Thompson JMD, Heazell AEP, Cronin RS, Wilson J, Li M, Gordon A, Askie LM, O'Brien LM, Raynes‐Greenow C, Stacey T, Mitchell EA, McCowan LME, Bradford BF. Does fetal size affect maternal perception of fetal movements? Evidence from an individual participant data meta-analysis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2023; 102:1586-1592. [PMID: 37553853 PMCID: PMC10577624 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Maternal perception of fetal movements during pregnancy are reassuring; however, the perception of a reduction in movements are concerning to women and known to be associated with increased odds of late stillbirth. Prior to full term, little evidence exists to provide guidelines on how to proceed unless there is an immediate risk to the fetus. Increased strength of movement is the most commonly reported perception of women through to full term, but perception of movement is also hypothesized to be influenced by fetal size. The study aimed to assess the pattern of maternal perception of strength and frequency of fetal movement by gestation and customized birthweight quartile in ongoing pregnancies. A further aim was to assess the association of stillbirth to perception of fetal movements stratified by customized birthweight quartile. MATERIAL AND METHODS This analysis was an individual participant data meta-analyses of five case-control studies investigating factors associated with stillbirth. The dataset included 851 cases of women with late stillbirth (>28 weeks' gestation) and 2257 women with ongoing pregnancies who then had a liveborn infant. RESULTS The frequency of prioritized fetal movement from 28 weeks' gestation showed a similar pattern for each quartile of birthweight with increased strength being the predominant perception of fetal movement through to full term. The odds of stillbirth associated with reduced fetal movements was increased in all quartiles of customized birthweight centiles but was notably greater in babies in the lowest two quartiles (Q1: adjusted OR: 9.34, 95% CI: 5.43, 16.06 and Q2: adjusted OR: 6.11, 95% CI: 3.11, 11.99). The decreased odds associated with increased strength of movement was present for all customized birthweight quartiles (adjusted OR range: 0.25-0.56). CONCLUSIONS Increased strength of fetal movements in late pregnancy is a positive finding irrespective of fetal size. However, reduced fetal movements are associated with stillbirth, and more so when the fetus is small.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M. D. Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Pediatrics: Child and Youth HealthUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | | | - Robin S. Cronin
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Jessica Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Minglan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Adrienne Gordon
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynecology and NeonatologyUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Louise M. O'Brien
- Department of Neurology Sleep Disorders CenterUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | | | - Tomasina Stacey
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative CareKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Edwin A. Mitchell
- Department of Pediatrics: Child and Youth HealthUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Lesley M. E. McCowan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Billie F. Bradford
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
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Hayes DJL, Dumville JC, Walsh T, Higgins LE, Fisher M, Akselsson A, Whitworth M, Heazell AEP. Effect of encouraging awareness of reduced fetal movement and subsequent clinical management on pregnancy outcome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:100821. [PMID: 36481411 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reduced fetal movement, defined as a decrease in the frequency or strength of fetal movements as perceived by the mother, is a common reason for presentation to maternity care. Observational studies have demonstrated an association between reduced fetal movement and stillbirth and fetal growth restriction related to placental insufficiency. However, individual intervention studies have described varying results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine whether interventions aimed at encouraging awareness of reduced fetal movement and/or improving its subsequent clinical management reduce the frequency of stillbirth or other important secondary outcomes. DATA SOURCES Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Guidelines, trial registries, and gray literature were also searched. Databases were searched from inception to January 20, 2022. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials and controlled nonrandomized studies were eligible if they assessed interventions aimed at encouraging awareness of fetal movement or fetal movement counting and/or improving the subsequent clinical management of reduced fetal movement. Eligible populations were singleton pregnancies after 24 completed weeks of gestation. The primary review outcome was stillbirth; a number of secondary maternal and neonatal outcomes were specified in the review. METHODS Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 and Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies I tools for randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies, respectively. Variation caused by heterogeneity was assessed using I2. Data from studies employing similar interventions were combined using random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS A total of 1609 citations were identified; 190 full-text articles were evaluated against the inclusion criteria, 18 studies (16 randomized controlled trials and 2 nonrandomized studies) were included. The evidence is uncertain about the effect of encouraging awareness of fetal movement on stillbirth when compared with standard care (2 studies, n=330,084) with a pooled adjusted odds ratio of 1.19 (95% confidence interval, 0.96-1.47). Interventions for encouraging awareness of fetal movement may be associated with a reduction in neonatal intensive care unit admissions and Apgar scores of <7 at 5 minutes of age and may not be associated with increases in cesarean deliveries or induction of labor. The evidence is uncertain about the effect of encouraging fetal movement counting on stillbirth when compared with standard care with a pooled odds ratio of 0.69 (95% confidence interval, 0.18-2.65) based on data from 3 randomized controlled trials (n=70,584). Counting fetal movements may increase maternal-fetal attachment and decrease anxiety when compared with standard care. When comparing combined interventions of fetal movement awareness and subsequent clinical management with standard care (1 study, n=393,857), the evidence is uncertain about the effect on stillbirth (adjusted odds ratio, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.70-1.05). CONCLUSION The effect of interventions for encouraging awareness of reduced fetal movement alone or in combination with subsequent clinical management on stillbirth is uncertain. Encouraging awareness of fetal movement may be associated with reduced adverse neonatal outcomes without an increase in interventions in labor. The meta-analysis was hampered by variations in interventions, outcome reporting, and definitions. Individual studies are frequently underpowered to detect a reduction in severe, rare outcomes and no studies were included from high-burden settings. Studies from such settings are needed to determine whether interventions can reduce stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexter J L Hayes
- Tommy's Stillbirth Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Mr Hayes and Drs Higgins, Whitworth, and Heazell).
| | - Jo C Dumville
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery, and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom (Dr Dumville)
| | - Tanya Walsh
- Division of Dentistry, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Dr Walsh)
| | - Lucy E Higgins
- Tommy's Stillbirth Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Mr Hayes and Drs Higgins, Whitworth, and Heazell)
| | - Margaret Fisher
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom (Dr Fisher)
| | - Anna Akselsson
- Department of Health Promoting Science, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden (Dr Akselsson)
| | - Melissa Whitworth
- Tommy's Stillbirth Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Mr Hayes and Drs Higgins, Whitworth, and Heazell)
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Tommy's Stillbirth Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Mr Hayes and Drs Higgins, Whitworth, and Heazell)
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Thompson RA, Thompson JMD, Wilson J, Cronin RS, Mitchell EA, Raynes-Greenow CH, Li M, Stacey T, Heazell AEP, O'Brien LM, McCowan LME, Anderson NH. Risk factors for late preterm and term stillbirth: A secondary analysis of an individual participant data meta-analysis. BJOG 2023. [PMID: 36852504 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identify independent and novel risk factors for late-preterm (28-36 weeks) and term (≥37 weeks) stillbirth and explore development of a risk-prediction model. DESIGN Secondary analysis of an Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta-analysis investigating modifiable stillbirth risk factors. SETTING An IPD database from five case-control studies in New Zealand, Australia, the UK and an international online study. POPULATION Women with late-stillbirth (cases, n = 851), and ongoing singleton pregnancies from 28 weeks' gestation (controls, n = 2257). METHODS Established and novel risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth underwent univariable and multivariable logistic regression modelling with multiple sensitivity analyses. Variables included maternal age, body mass index (BMI), parity, mental health, cigarette smoking, second-hand smoking, antenatal-care utilisation, and detailed fetal movement and sleep variables. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Independent risk factors with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for late-preterm and term stillbirth. RESULTS After model building, 575 late-stillbirth cases and 1541 controls from three contributing case-control studies were included. Risk factor estimates from separate multivariable models of late-preterm and term stillbirth were compared. As these were similar, the final model combined all late-stillbirths. The single multivariable model confirmed established demographic risk factors, but additionally showed that fetal movement changes had both increased (decreased frequency) and reduced (hiccoughs, increasing strength, frequency or vigorous fetal movements) aOR of stillbirth. Poor antenatal-care utilisation increased risk while more-than-adequate care was protective. The area-under-the-curve was 0.84 (95% CI 0.82-0.86). CONCLUSIONS Similarities in risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth suggest the same approach for risk-assessment can be applied. Detailed fetal movement assessment and inclusion of antenatal-care utilisation could be valuable in late-stillbirth risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J M D Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - R S Cronin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Women's Health Division, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - E A Mitchell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - C H Raynes-Greenow
- Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Women's Health Division, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T Stacey
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A E P Heazell
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - L M O'Brien
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - L M E McCowan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - N H Anderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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11
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Bradford BF, Cronin RS, Warland J, Akselsson A, Rådestad I, Heazell AE, McKinlay CJD, Stacey T, Thompson JMD, McCowan LME. Fetal movements: A framework for antenatal conversations. Women Birth 2022; 36:238-246. [PMID: 36154793 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Presentations for decreased fetal movements comprise a significant proportion of acute antenatal assessments. Decreased fetal movements are associated with increased likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes including stillbirth. Consensus-based guidelines recommend pregnant women routinely receive information about fetal movements, but practice is inconsistent, and the information shared is frequently not evidence-based. There are also knowledge gaps about the assessment and management of fetal movement concerns. Women have indicated that they would like more accurate information about what to expect regarding fetal movements. DISCUSSION Historically, fetal movement information has focussed on movement counts. This is problematic, as the number of fetal movements perceived varies widely between pregnant women, and no set number of movements has been established as a reliable indicator of fetal wellbeing. Of late, maternity care providers have also advised women to observe their baby's movement pattern, and promptly present if they notice a change. However, normal fetal movement patterns are rarely defined. Recently, a body of research has emerged relating to maternal perception of fetal movement features such as strength, presence of hiccups, and diurnal pattern as indicators of fetal wellbeing in addition to frequency. CONCLUSION Sharing comprehensive and gestation-appropriate information about fetal movements may be more satisfying for women, empowering women to identify for themselves when their baby is doing well, and importantly when additional assessment is needed. We propose a conversational approach to fetal movement information sharing, focusing on fetal movement strength, frequency, circadian pattern, and changes with normal fetal development, tailored to the individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billie F Bradford
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Practice, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Robin S Cronin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Women's Health Division, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane Warland
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Anna Akselsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Alexander Ep Heazell
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J D McKinlay
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Kidz First Neonatal Care, Counties Manukau Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tomasina Stacey
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John M D Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lesley M E McCowan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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King VJ, Bennet L, Stone PR, Clark A, Gunn AJ, Dhillon SK. Fetal growth restriction and stillbirth: Biomarkers for identifying at risk fetuses. Front Physiol 2022; 13:959750. [PMID: 36060697 PMCID: PMC9437293 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.959750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a major cause of stillbirth, prematurity and impaired neurodevelopment. Its etiology is multifactorial, but many cases are related to impaired placental development and dysfunction, with reduced nutrient and oxygen supply. The fetus has a remarkable ability to respond to hypoxic challenges and mounts protective adaptations to match growth to reduced nutrient availability. However, with progressive placental dysfunction, chronic hypoxia may progress to a level where fetus can no longer adapt, or there may be superimposed acute hypoxic events. Improving detection and effective monitoring of progression is critical for the management of complicated pregnancies to balance the risk of worsening fetal oxygen deprivation in utero, against the consequences of iatrogenic preterm birth. Current surveillance modalities include frequent fetal Doppler ultrasound, and fetal heart rate monitoring. However, nearly half of FGR cases are not detected in utero, and conventional surveillance does not prevent a high proportion of stillbirths. We review diagnostic challenges and limitations in current screening and monitoring practices and discuss potential ways to better identify FGR, and, critically, to identify the “tipping point” when a chronically hypoxic fetus is at risk of progressive acidosis and stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria J. King
- Fetal Physiology and Neuroscience Group, Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Laura Bennet
- Fetal Physiology and Neuroscience Group, Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter R. Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Biomedical Engineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alistair J. Gunn
- Fetal Physiology and Neuroscience Group, Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Simerdeep K. Dhillon
- Fetal Physiology and Neuroscience Group, Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- *Correspondence: Simerdeep K. Dhillon,
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