Desfechos obstétricos adversos durante a COVID-19: uma série de casos retrospectiva / Adverse obstetric outcomes during COVID-19: a retrospective case series / Resultados obstétricos adversos durante el COVID-19: serie de casos retrospectiva

Objetivo: analisar as características e os desfechos obstétricos adversos em gestantes/puérperas infectadas pelo SARS-CoV-2 em serviço de referência. Método: série de casos retrospectiva entre gestantes com Covid-19 em um hospital universitário em Minas Gerais, Brasil, atendidas no serviço de 2020 a 2021, coletados em abril de 2022, empregando-se estatística descritiva para análise dos dados através do Statistical Package for the Social Science. Resultados: incluídas 26 gestantes, em sua maioria brancas, que tiveram como principais desfechos obstétricos adversos a internação em UTI (43,5%), parto prematuro (34,6%), dado reestratificado de semanas para dias para investigar o encurtamento da gestação, onde constatou-se média de 38,6 dias potenciais de gravidez perdidos dos 280 dias ideais, e ainda 15,4% evoluíram para óbito materno. Conclusão: o estudo proporcionou evidenciar a necessidade de vigilância e atenção às gestantes com foco nos principais desfechos adversos, podendo-se intervir em tempo oportuno para diminuir adversidades.

Objective: to analyze the characteristics and adverse obstetric outcomes in pregnant/puerperal women infected by SARS-CoV-2 at a reference service. Method: a retrospective case series conducted among pregnant women with Covid-19 in a university hospital from Minas Gerais, Brazil, treated at the service from 2020 to 2021. The cases were collected in April 2022 employing descriptive statistics for data analysis in the Statistical Package for the Social Science. Results: a total of 26 pregnant women were included, mostly white-skinned, whose main adverse obstetric outcomes were admission to the ICU (43.5%), premature birth (34.6%) and data restratified from weeks to days to investigate shortening of pregnancy, where a mean of 38.6 potential days of pregnancy were lost out of the ideal 280 days, and 15.4% resulted in maternal death. Conclusion: the study provided evidence of the need for surveillance and care for pregnant women with a focus on the main adverse outcomes, enabling timely intervention to reduce adversities.

Objetivo: analizar las características y resultados obstétricos adversos en gestantes/puérperas infectadas por SARS-CoV-2 en un servicio de referencia. Método: serie de casos retrospectiva entre gestantes con Covid-19 en un hospital universitario de Minas Gerais, Brasil, atendidas en el servicio de 2020 a 2021. Los datos se recolectaron en abril de 2022, se utilizó estadística descriptiva para analizar los datos mediante el Statistical Package for the Social Science. Resultados: se incluyeron 26 gestantes, la mayoría de raza blanca, cuyos principales resultados obstétricos adversos fueron ingreso a UCI (43,5%), parto prematuro (34,6%), dato reestratificado de semanas a días para investigar el acortamiento de la gestación, que arrojó como resultado un promedio de 38,6. Se comprobó que se perdieron en promedio 38,6 días potenciales de embarazo de los 280 días ideales, y muerte materna (15,4%). Conclusión: la evidencia que proporcionó el estudio indica que es necesario vigilar y atender a las gestantes enfocándose en los principales resultados adversos, lo que permite intervenir de forma oportuna para reducir adversidades.

Neonatal and maternal outcomes of mRNA versus Non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: To compare the effectiveness and safety of non-mRNA versus mRNA COVID-19 vaccines on pregnant women and their newborns in a systematic review with meta-analysis. Data sources: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central in May 2023. Study selection: The search strategy yielded 4451 results, 16 studies were fully reviewed. We selected case-control studies analysing non-mRNA versus mRNA vaccines. Data collection and analysis: we assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. Standardised mean differences were pooled using random-effect models. Data synthesis: We identified 8 prospective and retrospective studies with a total of 32,153 patients. Non-mRNA vaccines were associated with a higher incidence of fever (OR 2.67; 95% CI 2.08-3.43; p<0.001), and a lower incidence of fetal or neonatal death (OR 0.16; 95% CI 0.08-0.33; p<0.001). In subgroup analyses, the Jansen vaccine (Ad26.COV2.S) was found to have a higher rate of premature labor/delivery (OR 4.48; 95% CI 1.45-13.83; p=0.009) and missed/spontaneous abortion (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.09-3.30; p=0.02), as compared with the Pfizer (BNT162b2) vaccine. Conclusion: non-mRNA vaccines are associated with a lower incidence of fetal or neonatal death among pregnant women who receive a Covid19 vaccine, although at an increased rate of pyrexia compared with mRNA vaccines. Other studies are required for better assessment. PROSPERO: CRD42023421814.

Prevalence of syphilis and associated factors among pregnant women in Brazil: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: This systematic review accompanied by a meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of syphilis in pregnant women in Brazil and describe its associated factors. Methods: Following the establishment the search strategies and the registration of the review protocol in PROSPERO, we conducted a search for relevant articles in the Pubmed, LILACS, Science Direct, SciELO and Web of Science databases. Our inclusion criteria were cross-sectional studies published between 2005 and 2023, with no language restrictions. The combined prevalence of syphilis infection was estimated using the random effects model in the R Software with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) and p < 0.01 as statistically significant. Results: A total of 24 articles were recruited, which together investigated 221,884 women. The combined prevalence of syphilis in pregnant women in Brazil was 1.79% (95% CI: 1.24-2.57%), and the main factors associated with its occurrence were black and brown skin color, low education and factors related to the partner. Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of syphilis in pregnancy in Brazil, mainly associated with socioeconomic factors.

How can we reduce maternal mortality due to preeclampsia? The 4P rule.

In low and middle-income countries such as Brazil, most maternal deaths are related to hypertensive complications. Preeclampsia is the leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Significant proportion is associated with the following factors: lack of identification of high-risk women, lack of adequate prevention, difficulty in maintaining a high-risk prenatal follow-up, delayed diagnosis, insecurity and low use of magnesium sulphate, delayed pregnancy interruption and lack of postpartum follow-up of these high-risk cases. Four major actions are proposed to minimize this alarming clinical picture and reduce the mortality rates due to preeclampsia, called the "4 P Rule" (Adequate Prevention - Vigilant Prenatal Care - Timely Delivery (Parturition) - Safe Postpartum). From this simple "rule" we can open a range of important processes and reminders that may help in the guidance of preeclampsia management.

Lack of adequate counseling about pregnancy complications in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cross-sectional survey study.

Objective: To assess the counseling experiences of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) related to obstetric complications and preconception management of comorbidities. Design: Cross-sectional survey study. Setting: Not applicable. Patients: Patients with PCOS with a history of or attempt at pregnancy. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Demographic characteristics, medical history, and counseling experiences. Results: Of the 302 respondents, 72.9% had a previous pregnancy, with 66.8% reporting complications during pregnancy. Of the entire cohort, 52.7% received preconception counseling on PCOS-related obstetric complications, and 41.5% were satisfied with their counseling experience. Five percent were counseled on related postpartum complications, and 43.4% received counseling about prepregnancy weight management, with the minority satisfied with their counseling. Among the respondents with existing comorbidities including hypertension, diabetes, and anxiety or depression, the minority received counseling on their preconception management. Although there were no racial disparities in the overall counseling of pregnancy complications, more black patients were counseled about preeclampsia, cesarean section, and preterm birth than white patients. Of the patients who had a single provider managing their PCOS care, 78.6% who saw a reproductive endocrinologist, 53.2% who saw a general gynecologist, and 35.0% who saw a primary care physician reported receiving counseling on related pregnancy complications. Conclusions: Despite the high prevalence of obstetric complications associated with PCOS, our study revealed inadequate patient counseling about both the antepartum and postpartum periods and preconception management of existing comorbidities. Our findings highlight the urgent need to increase provider education and patient awareness to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes.

The complexity of cardiovascular risk in women. Descriptive review. / La complejidad del riesgo cardiovascular en las mujeres. Revisión descriptiva.

OBJECTIVES: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the greatest threat to the health of women and is the leading cause of death amongst women globally; however, cardiovascular disease in women remains understudied, under-recognized, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. The aim of this descriptive review is to summarize the existing problem and to identify the knowledge gaps in cardiovascular disease research, prevention, treatment, and access to care for women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a descriptive review of the literature based on numerous articles published in peer-reviewed journals since the beginning of this century related to the spectrum of cardiovascular disease in women. RESULTS: There are several obstacles to improve cardiovascular disease outcomes in women. One of them is the lack of reliable, effective screening modalities since her participation in clinical trial is quite low. Other concern is the complexity of the female organism with several hormonal changes during her life and the hemodynamics stress during pregnancy. Moreover, in the last stage of their life several cardiometabolic risk factor may appear, most of them not recognized by the health team in primary care attention. DISCUSSION: Effective strategies are required to address inequalities in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of heart disease in women; to advance innovative solutions for early detection and oriented management; to clarify the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to sex-specific differences in outcomes; and finally, reduce the global burden of cardiovascular disease in women.

Effect of environmental air pollutants on placental function and pregnancy outcomes: a molecular insight.

Air pollution has become a major health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women. Studies have reported a strong association between prenatal exposure to air pollutants and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including lower birth weight, reduced fetal growth, and an increased frequency of preterm births. This review summarizes the harmful effects of air pollutants, such as particulate matter, on pregnancy and outlines the mechanistic details associated with these adverse outcomes. Particulate pollutant matter may be able to cross the placenta barrier, and alterations in placental functions are central to the detrimental effects of these pollutants. In addition to associations with preeclampsia and gestational hypertension, air pollutants also induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and epigenetic alteration in the placenta. These pollutants can also affect placental homeostasis and endocrine function, contributing to pregnancy complications and possible transgenerational effects. Prenatal air pollution exposure has been linked to reduced cognitive and motor function in infants and newborns, increasing the predisposition to autism spectrum disorders and other neuropsychiatric disorders. This review also summarizes the use of various animal models to study the harmful effects of air pollution on pregnancy and postnatal outcomes. These findings provide valuable insight into the molecular events associated with the process and can aid in risk mitigation and adopting safety measures. Implementing effective environmental protocols and taking appropriate steps may reduce the global disease burden, particularly for developing nations with poor regulatory compliance and large populations of pregnant women.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and pregnancy complications: new challenges and clinical perspectives.

The term metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), with a global prevalence estimated at 38.77%, has gradually replaced the traditional concept of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Compared to the general population, the incidence of MAFLD is notably higher among pregnant women, posing potential risks to both maternal and neonatal health. This review summarizes the latest research on MAFLD, focusing on its association with pregnancy complications. Additionally, it provides a comparative analysis with previous studies on NAFLD, presenting a comprehensive perspective for clinical management. Findings suggest that pregnant women with MAFLD face a higher risk of gestational hypertension and cesarean delivery compared to those with NAFLD, while the risk for gestational diabetes mellitus remains similar between the two conditions. Additionally, MAFLD is associated with an increased likelihood of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants and heightened risks of preterm birth and low birth weight. Current treatment strategies for MAFLD focus on lifestyle modifications, such as dietary adjustments and increased physical activity. However, there is an urgent need for the development of safe and effective pharmacological treatments, particularly tailored toward pregnant women. Future research should delve deeper into the causal relationships between MAFLD and pregnancy complications and explore optimal therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes for mothers and their infants.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and pregnancy complications Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a new term for what used to be called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, affecting nearly two-fifths of people worldwide. It's especially concerning for pregnant women, as it can cause serious problems for both the mother and the baby. This summary looks at the latest studies on how MAFLD affects pregnant women and how it compares to the older diagnosis of NAFLD. The findings show that pregnant women with MAFLD are more likely to have high blood pressure during pregnancy and need a cesarean section. However, the chance of getting gestational diabetes is about the same for both MAFLD and NAFLD. MAFLD also increases the risk of having a baby that is too large for its gestational age, as well as the risks of preterm birth and low birth weight. Right now, the main way to treat MAFLD is through healthy lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. But there's a big need for new medicines that are safe for pregnant women. Future studies should look more into how MAFLD causes complications during pregnancy and find the best ways to treat it to help mothers and their babies.

Low-dose aspirin and heparin treatment improves pregnancy outcome in recurrent pregnancy loss women with anti-ß2-glycoprotein I/HLA-DR autoantibodies: a prospective, multicenter, observational study.

Introduction: Anti-ß2-glycoprotein I (ß2GPI)/human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR antibodies may be a risk factor for recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). The therapeutic modality for women with RPL and anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibody positivity has not been evaluated. This prospective, multicenter, observational study aimed to assess whether low-dose aspirin (LDA) and/or heparin therapies improve pregnancy outcomes in women with RPL who tested positive for anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies. Methods: Between August 2019 and December 2021, 462 women with RPL underwent anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibody measurements and risk assessments for RPL. Each attending physician decided the treatment modality for women with RPL who tested positive for anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies, and their pregnancy outcomes were followed up until December 2023. Finally, 47 pregnancies in 47 women with RPL and anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibody positivity were included in the analysis and were divided into two groups regarding whether they were treated with LDA and/or unfractionated heparin (UFH) (LDA/UFH group, n = 39) or with neither of them (non-LDA/non-UFH group, n = 8). The rates of live birth and pregnancy complications (i.e., preeclampsia and preterm delivery before 34 gestational weeks due to placental insufficiency) were compared between the two groups. Results: The live birth rate in the LDA/UFH group was higher than that in the non-LDA/non-UFH group (87.2% vs 50.0%, p = 0.03). The pregnancy complication rate in the LDA/UFH group was significantly lower than that in the non-LDA/non-UFH group (5.9% vs 50.0%, p = 0.048). Among 21 women who tested positive for anti-ß2GPI/HLA-DR antibodies and had no other risk factors for RPL, the live birth rate in the LDA/UFH group (n = 14) was much higher than that in the non-LDA/non-UFH group (n = 7) (92.9% vs 42.9%, p = 0.03). Discussion: This study, for the first time, demonstrated that LDA and/or UFH therapies are effective in improving pregnancy outcomes in women with RPL and aß2GPI/HLA-DR antibody positivity.

Mapping the scientific literature on obstetric and perinatal health among sexual and gender minoritized (SGM) childbearing people and their infants: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests sexual and gender minoritized (SGM) childbearing individuals and their infants experience more adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. This study aimed to comprehensively map obstetric and perinatal physical health literature among SGM populations and their infants and identify knowledge gaps. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science Core Collection were systematically searched to identify published studies reporting obstetric and perinatal outcomes in SGM individuals or their infants. Study characteristics, sample characteristics, and outcome findings were systematically extracted and analyzed. RESULTS: Our search yielded 8,740 records; 55 studies (1981-2023) were included. Sexual orientation was measured by self-identification (72%), behavior (55%), and attraction (9%). Only one study captured all three dimensions. Inconsistent measures of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) were common, and 68% conflated sex and gender. Most (85%) focused on sexual minorities, while 31% addressed gender minorities. Demographic measures employed varied widely and were inconsistent; 35% lacked race/ethnicity data, and 44% lacked socioeconomic data. Most studies (78%) examined outcomes among SGM individuals, primarily focusing on morbidity and pregnancy outcomes. Pregnancy termination was most frequently studied, while pregnancy and childbirth complications (e.g., gestational hypertension, postpartum hemorrhage) were rarely examined. Evidence of disparities were mixed. Infant outcomes were investigated in 60% of the studies, focusing on preterm birth and low birthweight. Disparities were noted among different sexual orientation and racial/ethnic groups. Qualitative insights highlighted how stigma and discriminatory care settings can lead to adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Frequent conflation of sex and gender and a lack of standardized SOGI measures hinder the comparison and synthesis of existing evidence. Nuanced sociodemographic data should be collected to understand the implications of intersecting identities. Findings on perinatal health disparities were mixed, highlighting the need for standardized SOGI measures and comprehensive sociodemographic data. The impact of stigma and discriminatory care on adverse outcomes underscores the need for inclusive healthcare environments. Future research should address these gaps; research on SGM perinatal outcomes remains urgently lacking. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The review protocol was developed a priori in February 2023, registered on Open Science Framework ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/5DQV4 ) and published in BMJ Open ( https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/11/e075443 ).

The role of pyroptosis in the occurrence and development of pregnancy-related diseases.

Pyroptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is crucial in the development of various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, atherosclerotic diseases, cancer, and pregnancy complications. In recent years, it has gained significant attention in national and international research due to its association with inflammatory immune overactivation and its involvement in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage and preeclampsia (PE). The mechanisms discussed include the canonical pyroptosis pathway of gasdermin activation and pore formation (caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis) and the non-canonical pyroptosis pathway (cysteoaspartic enzymes other than caspase-1). These pathways work on various cellular and factorial levels to influence normal pregnancy. This review aims to summarize and analyze the pyroptosis pathways associated with abnormal pregnancies and pregnancy complications. The objective is to enhance pregnancy outcomes by identifying various targets to prevent the onset of pyroptosis.

Risk factors and recurrence of hyperemesis gravidarum: A population-based record linkage cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: There are limited contemporary population-based studies on the risk factors for hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe type of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and trend of HG over time, identify risk factors for any and multiple HG health service visits during pregnancy, and investigate HG recurrence across pregnancies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This population-based record linkage cohort study featured births in New South Wales, Australia from 2010 to 2019. Hospital and emergency data collections were used to identify health service visits for HG using relevant diagnosis codes and were linked to the corresponding pregnancy on the birth data set. Outcomes included any HG and multiple HG visits during pregnancy, and HG recurrence across pregnancies. Annual HG prevalence was calculated, and negative binomial regression was used to examine standardized prevalence trends. Risk factors for any HG and multiple HG visits within a pregnancy were examined using Robust Poisson models with generalized estimating equations and Prentice-Williams-Peterson Gap Time models, respectively. Rates and risk of recurrence were calculated for women with a second and third pregnancy. RESULTS: Of the 955 107 pregnancies, 21 702 (2.3%) were classified as HG. There was an average annual increase of 6.8% (95% CI 5.3-8.3) in HG prevalence. Younger maternal age, multiple pregnancies, and selected preexisting conditions were associated with an increased risk of HG, with the strongest factor being HG in any previous pregnancy (risk ratio 8.92, 99% CI 8.43-9.44). Hyperemesis gravidarum recurrence at the second (28.9%) and third (54.7%) pregnancies was high. CONCLUSIONS: Hyperemesis gravidarum history is the strongest risk factor for HG, which has implications for counseling and care that women receive around pregnancy.

Pregnancy in women with mitochondrial disease-A literature review and suggested guidance for preconception and pregnancy care.

Mitochondrial donation to reduce the risk of primary mitochondrial disease transmission from mother to child is now permitted under Australian law as part of a clinical trial. The energy demands of pregnancy have the potential to worsen mitochondrial disease symptoms and severity in affected women. We conducted a systematic literature review on mitochondrial disease in pregnancy; five cohort studies and 19 case reports were included. For many women with mitochondrial disease, pregnancy does not have a negative effect on health status. However, serious adverse outcomes may occur. We provide suggested guidelines for preconception counselling and antenatal care.

Risk factors and clinical features of pre-eclampsia in Iranian and Afghan mothers: A comparative study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess variations in the presentation and clinical implications of pre-eclampsia between Iranian and Afghan mothers at a maternity center in Tehran. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of Iranian and Afghan mothers diagnosed with pre-eclampsia. Data were collected from March 2021 to February 2023 at a maternity center in Tehran, Iran. Demographic information, clinical characteristics, and laboratory findings were extracted from medical records. Statistical analyses were employed to compare differences between Iranian and Afghan mothers, including Mann-Whitney U, Pearson χ2 tests, and logistic regression models. RESULTS: We included 822 pregnant women with pre-eclampsia, predominantly Iranian (75.5%) and Afghan (24.5%). Regarding the multivariate logistic regression model, Iranian mothers were older, with a higher proportion over 35 years. Although Afghan mothers showed higher gravidity counts and greater gestational ages at delivery, they had lower rates of hypothyroidism. Iranian women were more often categorized as obese than Afghan women, and the difference was statistically significant. Serum levels of alkaline phosphatase were significantly greater in Afghan women. CONCLUSION: Pre-eclampsia poses significant maternal health risks, especially among Afghan refugees in Iran. Variances in age, gravidity, and hypothyroidism prevalence highlight the need for tailored healthcare strategies. Addressing cultural barriers and implementing targeted interventions can improve maternal and fetal outcomes in these populations.

Antenatal screening - The roles of medical and family history, routine tests, and examination findings.

Routine antenatal care includes history, examination, and several standard laboratory tests. Other than the original objectives, the generated data is seldom utilised for screening for adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes. Although new approaches and sophisticated tests improve prediction of complications such as pre-eclampsia, these may not be available globally. Maternal age, race/ethnicity, anthropometry, and method of conception can influence the occurrence of pregnancy complications. The importance of medical and obstetric history is well documented but often ignored. Routine test results including blood picture, hepatitis B and rubella serology, and sexually transmitted diseases, have additional health implications. The awareness of, and the ability to utilise, available antenatal data and tests in obstetric management will enhance individualised obstetric risk assessment thus facilitating the targeting of high-risk gravidae for further management, including the use of specific and technology-driven tests where available, and close monitoring and treatment, in a cost-effective manner.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review of Pathogenesis, Clinical Features, and Management Strategies.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) that predispose individuals to thrombotic events and pregnancy-related complications. APS can occur as a primary condition or in association with other autoimmune diseases, most commonly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Catastrophic APS (CAPS) is a rare, severe variant of APS, marked by rapid-onset, widespread thrombosis leading to multi-organ failure, often triggered by infections, surgical procedures, or cessation of anticoagulation therapy. Both APS and CAPS present significant clinical challenges due to their potential for severe morbidity and mortality. This comprehensive review aims to provide a detailed overview of the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies for APS and CAPS. The review highlights the immunological mechanisms underlying APS, including the role of aPLs, complement system activation, and endothelial cell dysfunction in developing thrombosis. It also outlines the clinical manifestations of APS, such as venous and arterial thrombosis, pregnancy morbidity, and neurological symptoms, along with the diagnostic criteria based on clinical and laboratory findings. The review delves into its pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and diagnostic challenges in the context of CAPS, emphasizing the need for immediate and intensive therapy to manage this life-threatening condition. Current management strategies for APS, including anticoagulant therapy, immunomodulatory treatments, and specific interventions for pregnancy-related complications, are discussed. The review highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for CAPS, combining anticoagulation, high-dose corticosteroids, plasma exchange, and intravenous immunoglobulin. The review also addresses the prognosis and long-term outcomes for patients with APS and CAPS, underlining the necessity for ongoing monitoring and follow-up to prevent recurrent thrombotic events and manage chronic complications. Finally, future directions in research are explored, focusing on emerging therapies, biomarkers for early diagnosis, and the need for clinical trials to advance the understanding and treatment of these complex syndromes. By enhancing the understanding of APS and CAPS, this review aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient care, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for those affected by these conditions.

Role of ultrasound in diagnosing gravid uterine incarceration.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize the ultrasound characteristics, diagnostic experiences, and pregnancy outcomes of gravid uterine incarceration. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of pregnant women diagnosed with gravid uterine incarceration by prenatal ultrasound at the Ultrasound Department of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2020 to December 2023. Clinical data, ultrasound features, and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: In this study, a total of 23 pregnant women were included. Of these, eight were diagnosed in early pregnancy, and 15 were diagnosed in mid-pregnancy. Seven participants had concurrent uterine fibroids, 10 had a history of abdominal or pelvic surgery, and two had ovarian cysts. A total of 13 cases presented with symptoms of urethral obstruction, three with rectal pressure symptoms, five cases with tight and stiff lower abdomen and two cases without special discomfort. Seventeen cases exhibited cervical compression with thinning and elongation, measuring approximately 39 to 73 mm. All 23 cases underwent manual or knee-chest positioning repositioning, with one case requiring surgical intervention. Ultimately, 22 cases resulted in full-term live births, one case experienced fetal demise at 24 weeks and one case experienced gravid uterine incarceration again in the third week after successful manual reduction, and manual reduction was performed again. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis is critical for obstetric management and clinical prognosis, facilitating the successful release of the incarcerated uterus. The earlier the diagnosis, the higher the likelihood of successfully releasing the incarcerated uterus.

A Systematic Review of Complications Following Pre-eclampsia.

INTRODUCTION: Most pregnancies are low-risk. However, sometimes women develop pre-eclampsia. The incidence varies based on different studies (Havers-Borgersen et al., 2023, 10.1136/jech-2023-220829).Pre-eclampsia is characterized by elevated blood pressure, protein in the urine, and excessive swelling and occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy though in the case of severe symptoms, all may not be required for diagnosis (Bajpai et al., 2023). Many strategies exist to identify women with pre-eclampsia and to treat it. There are known immediate risks to both the mother and fetus. Some of these risks extend beyond the immediate postpartum period. Much less is known regarding the long-term risks. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to conduct a systematic review of the long-term complications related to pre-eclampsia. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were used to guide this systematic review. PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, PschINFO, and Google Scholar were used to identify relevant articles. We focused on articles published within the last 5 years. Search terms were pre-eclampsia and complications, pregnancy-induced hypertension and complications, long-term complications of pre-eclampsia, and long-term follow-up of pre-eclampsia. RESULTS: Two hundred and fifty-eight articles were identified; further analysis identified 91 that seemed relevant. After a thorough review, 19 articles were deemed relevant to identify complications women experience following pre-eclampsia. DISCUSSION: Cardiovascular disease is a major long-term risk. Early-onset pre-eclampsia contributes the greatest risk. Health promotion interventions that target women following a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia are needed. Inadequate knowledge exists to guide efforts to prevent long-term sequelae from pre-eclampsia.

Women who experience pre-eclampsia have significant health risks following the diagnosis. Some risks are immediate (elevated blood pressure) and some risks can take longer to develop (heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease). Because of these risks, it is critical to develop treatment strategies to prevent these risks if possible. There are also risks to the fetus/newborn and these may be amendable to intervention as well.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy in pregnancy: a narrative review.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) poses unique challenges for women during pregnancy, necessitating comprehensive care and tailored management strategies. The present narrative review aims to examine the unique challenges and management strategies required for women with LGMD during pregnancy. With over 30 genetic subtypes identified and the potential for additional discoveries through advanced diagnostic techniques, preconception counseling plays a crucial role in informing prospective parents about reproductive risks and available options. Baseline assessments, including cardiac and pulmonary evaluations, are essential to guide antenatal care, alongside genetic testing for precise diagnosis and counseling. Optimizing maternal health through respiratory exercises, cardiac monitoring, and individualized exercise and nutrition plans is paramount to avoid potential complications. During pregnancy, close monitoring of maternal and fetal well-being is important, with collaborative care between obstetricians and specialists. An individualized approach to delivery mode considering factors such as muscle strength, pelvic size, and fetal presentation is crucial. While vaginal delivery has been proven to be possible, the need for an emergency cesarean delivery should always be kept in mind. Regional anesthesia is preferred, with proactive planning for potential respiratory support. Bupivacaine has been shown to be effective with epidural catheters that may be used for prolonged relief with opioids like morphine and fentanyl, while also evaluating the patients' respiratory function. Postpartum considerations include pain management, mobility support, breastfeeding assistance, and emotional support. Early mobilization and tailored physiotherapy regimens may promote optimal recovery, while comprehensive breastfeeding guidance is needed to address challenges related to muscle weakness. Access to mental health resources and support networks is essential to helping individuals cope with the emotional demands of parenthood alongside managing LGMD. By addressing the unique needs of pregnant individuals with LGMD, healthcare providers can optimize maternal and fetal outcomes while supporting individuals in their journey to parenthood.

Position statement on the management of pregnancy in sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary haemoglobinopathy which causes multi-organ dysfunction. Pregnancies in SCD are high risk with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, including vaso-occlusive crises, thrombosis, anaemia, placental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth and medication effects. High level evidence on this topic is lacking. The Australian Sickle Cell Disease Working Group has reviewed international guidelines on this topic and provide an up-to-date and structured approach to the pre-conception, antenatal, birth and post-partum management of these women. Early and comprehensive multidisciplinary care involving experienced clinicians is recommended.