Does the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine and its serum IgG levels affect fertility treatments and obstetric outcomes? An observational cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Although there are some data regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, its potential impact in terms of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels has not been evaluated prospectively. This study aimed to assess the effect of COVID-19 vaccine and IgG levels on IVF outcomes. METHODS: This observational, cohort study was conducted at a referral IVF unit. Couples undergoing IVF treatment during the COVID-19 vaccination period were recruited from March-April 2021. The study compared 38 women who had received the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccination to 10 women who had not and were not infected by the virus. We also compared pre- and post-vaccination IVF treatments for 24 women. The relation between serologic titers and IVF treatment outcomes was also assessed. RESULTS: No significant difference was found between the vaccinated and unvaccinated/uninfected groups regarding the main outcome measures. However, there was a trend toward a higher pregnancy rate for the unvaccinated group (57% vs. 23%, p = 0.078) but no difference in delivery rate (p = 0.236), gestational week (p = 0.537) or birth rate (p = 0.671). CONCLUSION: We cautiously state that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine does not affect fertility outcomes, including fertilization, pregnancy and delivery rates, obstetric outcomes, and semen parameters, regardless of measured IgG levels.

Parenthood desire, perceived parenthood stigma, and barriers to achieving parenthood in childless sexual minority men.

PURPOSE: To examine the parenthood desire, perceived parenthood stigma, and barriers to achieving parenthood among sexual minority men (SMM) in Canada, and to investigate factors influencing their fertility and assisted reproductive knowledge. METHODS: Data were collected from March to mid-June 2023 using a 78-item anonymous online survey. Childless cisgender SMM (age 18+) living in Canada were recruited from the LGBTQIA+ community outside the fertility care networks. Chi-square, t-tests, ANOVA, reliability tests, Spearman's correlation, and hierarchical regression model were used for analysis. RESULTS: Over 160 people clicked the survey hyperlink during the study period and 112 completed surveys were analyzed. The mean age of participants was 33.2±8.5 (range: 19.7-60.0). Having a child by any means was "quite"/"very" important to 35.7% (n=40), yet 56.0% (n=61) thought it was "unlikely" to achieve parenthood. Financial readiness (n=90, 85.7%) and relationship stability (n=86, 81.9%) were the two most "important" parenthood considerations. Participants who were non-white (p=0.017), under age 30 (p=0.008), and had no siblings (p=0.024) had significantly higher means of parenthood desire compared to others. The final hierarchical regression model explained 43% of the variance in the knowledge scores (R2adj =0.353), predicted by the levels of (i) education (ß=0.37, p<0.001), (ii) family acceptance of sexual orientation (ß=0.39, p=0.004), and (iii) parenthood desire (ß=0.27, p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS: With an increasing number of SMM desiring children, it is pivotal to advance family-building equality through improving their fertility and assisted reproductive knowledge, removing disparities in accessing adoption and assisted reproductive services, and decreasing social stigma against SMM having children.

Postpartum post-traumatic stress symptoms during the COVID-19 period: exposure and fear as mediating factors.

Background: Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) following childbirth are common within a stressful environment and are mitigated by social support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase in such symptoms has been reported. The current study aims to longitudinally model the influence of general and pandemic-specific risk and protective factors on the temporal unfolding of symptoms among postpartum women.Methods: Participants were 226 women following a liveborn, term birth during the first lockdown in Israel. Participants completed questionnaires 10 weeks (T1) and 6 months (T2) after delivery. PATH analyses included predictors of symptoms in T1: demographics, exposure to traumatic events, medical complications during delivery or pregnancy, exposure to COVID-19-related events and their subjective impact, fear of COVID-19, and social support. Predictors of symptoms in T2 were: T1 predictors, both as direct effects and mediated by T1 PTSS, as well as predictors measured again in T2.Results: Results showed the suggested model fit the data. The effect of COVID-19-related fear and subjective impact at T1 on symptoms at T2 were fully mediated by PTSS in T1, as were the effects of marriage and high social support at T1. COVID-19-related fear at T2 positively predicted symptoms at T2, while social support at T2 had the opposite effect. Medical complications during pregnancy negatively predicted symptoms in T2 only.Discussion: Persistent fear appears to be a risk factor and supports a consistent buffer in postpartum PTSS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Medical complications during pregnancy served as a protective factor, possibly due to habituation to medical settings.

Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) following childbirth during the COVID-19 pandemic may unfold in a unique manner, relating to pandemic-related stressors and fears.Women who experience stressful pandemic-related events are not at heightened risk of developing PTSS within the six months following birth, but those reporting COVID-19 related fears are.Women who had medical complications during pregnancy, but not delivery, are at lower risk of developing subsequent PTSS, perhaps due to their ongoing contact with medical facilities despite the pandemic.

Low lying placenta: natural course, clinical data, complications and a new model for early prediction of persistency.

OBJECTIVE: To define the natural course and complications, and develop a model for predicting persistency when low-lying placenta (LLP) is detected early in pregnancy. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included women with LLP detected during an early anatomic scan performed at 13-16 weeks gestation. Additional transvaginal ultrasound exams were assessed for resolution at 22-24 weeks and 36-39 weeks. Patients were categorized as: Group 1-LLP resolved by the second-trimester scan, Group 2-LLP resolved by the third trimester, or Group 3-LLP persisted to delivery. Clinical and laboratory parameters, as well as maternal and neonatal complications, were compared. A linear support vector machine classification was used to define a prediction model for persistent LLP. RESULTS: Among 236 pregnancies with LLP, 189 (80%) resolved by 22-24 weeks, 25 (10.5%) resolved by 36-39 weeks and 22 (9.5%) persisted until delivery. Second trimester hCG levels were higher the longer the LLP persisted (0.8 ± 0.7MoM vs. 1.13 + 0.4 MoM vs. 1.7 ± 1.5 MoM, adjusted p = .03, respectively) and cervical length (mm) was shorter (first trimester: 4.3 ± 0.7 vs. 4.1 ± 0.5 vs. 3.6 ± 1; adjusted p = .008; Second trimester: 4.4 ± 0.1 vs. 4.1 ± 1.2 vs. 3.8 ± 0.8; adjusted p = .02). The predictive accuracy of the linear support vector machine classification model, calculated based on these parameters, was 90.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Persistent LLP has unique clinical characteristics and more complications compared to cases that resolved. Persistency can be predicted with 90.3% accuracy, as early as the beginning of the second trimester by using a linear support vector machine classification model.

Postnatal Outcomes of Fetuses with Prenatal Diagnosis of 6-9.9 mm Pyelectasis.

Pyelectasis, also known as renal pelvic dilatation or hydronephrosis, is frequently found on fetal ultrasound. This study correlated prenatally-detected, moderate pyelectasis with postnatal outcomes. This retrospective, observational study was conducted at a tertiary medical center in Israel. The study group consisted of 54 fetuses with prenatal diagnosis of pyelectasis on ultrasound scan during the second trimester, defined as anteroposterior renal pelvic diameter (APRPD) 6-9.9 mm. Long-term postnatal outcomes and renal-related sequelae were obtained using medical records and telephone-based questionnaires. The control group included 98 cases with APRPD < 6 mm. Results indicate that fetal pyelectasis 6-9.9 mm was more frequent among males (68.5%) than females (51%, p = 0.034). We did not find significant correlations between 6-9.9 mm pyelectasis and other anomalies or chromosomal/genetic disorders. Pyelectasis resolved during the pregnancy in 15/54 (27.8%) cases. There was no change in 17/54 (31.5%) and 22/54 (40.7%) progressed to hydronephrosis Among the study group, 25/54 (46.3%) were diagnosed with neonatal hydronephrosis. There were more cases of renal reflux or renal obstruction in the study group compared to the control group 8/54 (14.8%) vs. 1/98 (1.0%), respectively; p = 0.002. In conclusion, most cases of 6-9.9 mm pyelectasis remained stable or resolved spontaneously during pregnancy. There was a higher rate of postnatal renal reflux and renal obstruction in this group; however, most did not require surgical intervention.

Clinical pregnancy rates among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women after letrozole versus hormone replacement therapy in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles.

This cohort study investigated whether letrozole versus hormone replacement therapy (HRT) results in higher live birth rate among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. It was conducted from 1st February 2018 to 31st January 2019 and included 261 anovulatory and oligoovulatory women. Since letrozole has become an effective alternative to HRT cycles, 121 patients received letrozole in 121 cycles from 1st February 2018 to 31st January 2019 and were compared to 140 HRT FET cycles among 140 women from 1st February 2017 to 31st January 2018. The primary outcome was live birth rate. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy and miscarriage rates. Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates of transferred cleavage embryos were higher in the letrozole compared to the HRT group (36/65 (55.3%) vs. 20/110 (18.1%), p < 0.001) and (25/65 (38.4%) vs. 17/110 (15.4%), p < 0.001) respectively, whilst these rates were similar for transferred blastocyst embryos. Miscarriage and multiple pregnancy rates were similar between groups. The letrozole group was older than the HRT group (31.8 ± 5.1 vs. 29.9 ± 5.1 years, p = 0.002) and more smoked cigarettes (p = 0.035). Groups were similar regarding BMI, male versus non-male indication for fertility treatment, peak oestradiol levels, and numbers of oocytes retrieved, blastocysts, frozen and transferred embryos. Letrozole compared to HRT might improve live birth and clinical pregnancy rates among anovulatory and oligoovulatory women undergoing FET cycles.

Cleft Lip and/or Cleft Palate: Prenatal Accuracy, Postnatal Course, and Long-Term Outcomes.

Orofacial clefts include cleft lip (CL) and cleft palate (CP). This retrospective study assessed the efficacy of prenatal sonographic diagnosis of isolated and non-isolated cases of CL/CP and the postnatal outcomes of these children. Data regarding patients diagnosed and treated in the tertiary orofacial clinic from 2000 to 2020 were retrieved from electronic medical records and telephone-based questionnaires. Isolated CL was found in 7 cases (7.2%), isolated CP in 51 (53%), and combined CL/CP in 38 (39.5%), and 22 cases (23%) were associated with other anomalies. Among 96 cases, 39 (40.6%) were diagnosed prenatally. Isolated CL was diagnosed in 5/7 (71.5%), combined clefts in 29/38 (76.3%), and CP in 7/51 (13.8%). Prenatal chromosomal analysis performed in 32/39 (82%) cases was normal for all. The rate of surgical intervention in the first year of life was 36/38 (94.7%) for combined clefts, 5/7 (71.4%) for CL, and 20/51 (39%) for isolated CP. Most children had speech therapy (23/38 (60.5%), 3/7 (42.8%), and 41/51 (80.3%), respectively) and psychotherapy (6/38 (15.7%), 3/7 (42.8%) and, 15/51 (29.4%), respectively). The accuracy rate of sonographic prenatal diagnosis is low. Our results emphasize the suggested work-up of fetuses with CL and/or CP and improvements to parental counseling, as well as their understanding and compliance regarding post-natal therapeutic plans.

Vacuum-Assisted Delivery Complication Rates Based on Ultrasound-Estimated Fetal Weight.

This retrospective cohort study investigated the association between ultrasonographic estimated fetal weight (EFW) and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes after vacuum-assisted delivery (VAD). It included women with singleton pregnancies at 34−41 weeks gestation, who underwent ultrasonographic pre-labor EFW and VAD in an academic institution, over 6 years. Adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes included shoulder dystocia, clavicular fracture, or third- and fourth-degree perineal tears. A receiver−operator characteristic curve was used to identify the optimal weight cut-off value to predict adverse outcomes. Fetuses above and below this point were compared. Multivariate analysis was used to control for factors that could lead to adverse outcomes. Eight-hundred and fifty women met the inclusion criteria and had sonographic EFW within two-weeks before delivery. Receiver−operator characteristic curve analysis found that ultrasonographic EFW 3666 g is the optimal threshold for adverse outcomes. Based on these results, outcomes were compared using EFW 3700 g. The average EFW in the ≥3700 g group (n = 220, 25.9%) was 3898 ± 154 g (average birthweight 3710 ± 324 g). In the group <3700 g (n = 630, 74.1%), average EFW was 3064 ± 411 g (birthweight 3120 ± 464 g). Shoulder dystocia and clavicular fractures were more frequent in the higher EFW group (6.4% and 2.3% vs. 1.6% and 0.5%, respectively; p < 0.05). Women in the ≥3700 g group experienced more third- and fourth-degree perineal tears (3.2% vs. 1%, p = 0.02). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found maternal age, diabetes and sonographic EFW ≥ 3700 g as independent risk-factors for adverse outcomes. Sonographic EFW ≥ 3700 g is an independent risk-factor for adverse outcomes in VAD. This should be considered when choosing the optimal mode of delivery.

Postpartum Depression in COVID-19 Days: Longitudinal Study of Risk and Protective Factors.

COVID-19 impacted the childbirth experience and increased the rates of postpartum depression (PPD). We assessed the longitudinal effects of the pandemic on the rates of PPD and evaluated the PPD causes and symptoms among women who delivered during the first COVID-19 quarantine in Israel. The participants completed online questionnaires 3 (T1) and 6 months (T2) following delivery. We used the 'COVID-19 exposure' questionnaire, while PPD symptoms, situational anxiety, and social support were evaluated with the EPDS, STAI, and MSPSS questionnaires. The mean EPDS scores increased between T1 and T2 (6.31 ± 5.6 vs. 6.92 ± 5.9, mean difference −0.64 ± 4.59 (95% CI (−1.21)−(−0.06)); t (244) = −2.17, p = 0.031), and the STAI scores decreased (45.35 ± 16.4 vs. 41.47 ± 14.0, t(234) = 4.39, p = 0.000). Despite the exposure to an increased number of COVID-19 events (3.63 ± 1.8 vs. (6.34 ± 2.3)), the impact of exposure decreased between T1 and T2 (8.91 ± 4.6 vs. 7.47 ± 4.1), p < 0.001). In the MSPSS, significant differences were noted on the family scale between the T1 (6.10 ± 1.3) and T2 (5.91 ± 1.4) scores; t (216) = 2.68, p = 0.0008. A regression analysis showed three statistically significant variables that correlated with increased EPDS scores: the MSPSS family subscale (F (1212.00) = 4.308, p = 0.039), the STAI scores (F (1212.00) = 31.988, p = 0.000), and the impact of exposure to COVID-19 (F (1212.00) = 5.038, p = 0.026). The rates of PPD increased for women who delivered during the first COVID-19 lockdown. Further research is warranted to help reduce PPD among these women.

Adverse outcomes in vacuum-assisted delivery after detachment of non-metal cup: a retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate neonatal and maternal outcomes associated with detachment of non-metal vacuum cup during delivery and to identify risk factors for these detachments. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included women with singleton pregnancy, who underwent vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery with a non-metal vacuum cup in a single academic institution, January 2014-August 2019. Failed vacuum deliveries were excluded. Primary outcomes were defined as subgaleal hematoma (SGH) and cord blood pH < 7.15. Secondary outcome included other neonatal complications and adverse maternal outcomes. Outcomes were compared between vacuum-assisted deliveries with and without cup detachment during the procedure. RESULTS: A total of 3246 women had successful VAD and met the inclusion criteria. During the procedure, the cup detached at least once in 665 (20.5%) deliveries and did not detach in 2581 (79.5%). The cup detachment group experienced higher rates of SGH (8.9% vs. 3.5%, p = 0.001) and cord blood pH < 7.15 (9.8% vs. 7.1%, p = 0.03). There were also more neonatal intensive care unit admissions (NICU) (4.4% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.03) and more fetuses with occiput posterior position (70.8% vs. 79.4%, p = 0.001), the vacuum duration was slightly longer (6 ± 3.7 vs. 5 ± 2.9 min) and more neonates had birth weights > 3700 g (14.1% vs, 10.3%, p = 0.006). Interestingly, there were more males in that group (60.6 vs. 54.6, p = 0.005). All these factors remained significant after controlling for potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Vacuum cup detachment has several predictive characteristics and is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes that should be incorporated into decisions made during the procedure.

Can sonographic changes in cervical length during pregnancy predict the need for cervical ripening in term pregnancies?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of changes in sonographic cervical length (CL) measured at 14-16 and 21-24 weeks of gestation, on cervical ripening in term pregnancies. METHODS: This retrospective, cohort study included term pregnancies with CL measured with transvaginal sonography (CL1 at 14-16 weeks gestation and CL2 at 21-24 weeks). History of preterm labor, multiple gestations, planned caesarean section, fetal anomalies and stillbirths were excluded. Participants were grouped based on ≥ 10% vs. < 10% CL shortening between measurements. The primary outcome was whether cervical shortening < 10% between CL1 and CL2 was associated with increased use of cervical ripening. Secondary outcomes were gestational age at delivery, delivery mode and birthweight. RESULTS: Among 267 women who met the inclusion criteria, CL decreased ≥ 10% between scans in 70 (26.3%) and < 10% in 197 (73.7%). Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Fewer women with ≥ 10% shortening between scans, underwent cervical ripening (7.1% vs. 16.8%, p < 0.05). In addition, in the ≥ 10% group, although CL2 was in the normal range, it was shorter than in the < 10% group (34.3 ± 6.7 mm vs. 40.1 ± 6.4 mm, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Decrease in cervical length > 10% between 14-16 and 21-24-weeks' gestation is associated with lower use of cervical ripening at term.

Prenatal work-up, associated anomalies and postnatal outcomes of foetuses with 9-9.9 mm cerebral ventricular atria width.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse prenatal work-up, associated anomalies and postnatal outcomes of foetuses with cerebral lateral ventricular width 9-9.9 mm. METHOD: This retrospective, observational, case-control study included 121 foetuses with initial presentation of isolated cerebral lateral ventricular width 9-9.9 mm detected during routine ultrasound scans, 21-24 weeks' gestation, in a tertiary referral centre, January 2001-December 2018. Controls included 123 foetuses with lateral ventricular width <9 mm measured under the same parameters. Clinical characteristics, obstetrical history, ultrasound findings, prenatal work-up and pregnancy outcomes were collected from medical records. Information about postnatal functional and neurodevelopmental sequelae were obtained from telephone-based questionnaires. RESULTS: The study group had more males (82/116 (70.6%) versus 65/123 (52.8%), p = 0.004), more prenatal testing, including brain magnetic resonance imaging (28/116 (24.1%) versus 0/123 (0%), p < 0.001), echocardiography (46/116 (39.7%) versus 15/123 (12.2%), p < 0.001) and targeted anomaly scans (102/116 (87.9%) versus 1/123 (0.008%), p < 0.001). Long-term follow-up did not reveal more neurodevelopmental sequelae compared to controls. Gender-based analysis found more males with ventricular dilatation 9-9.9 mm treated for developmental delay compared to females with similar findings (15/82 (18.2%) versus 1/34 (2.9%), p = 0.010). CONCLUSION: Foetuses with 9-9.9 mm cerebral lateral ventricular width versus <9 mm underwent more prenatal testing but had similar rates of neurodevelopmental sequelae.

The role of mediolateral episiotomy during vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery with soft cup devices.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated whether episiotomy during vacuum-assisted delivery leads to fewer third- and fourth-degree tears. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of all nulliparas who underwent a singleton, soft cup, vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery in one institution, from January 2014 to August 2019. Failed vacuum deliveries were excluded. Based on power analysis calculation, a sample size of 500 women in each group was sufficient to detect an advantage of episiotomy, if present. Primary outcome was third- or fourth-degree perineal tear. Secondary outcomes were other maternal complications, and low neonatal cord pH and Apgar scores. Outcomes were compared between women with and without episiotomy. RESULTS: During the study period, 2370 nulliparas had a vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery using soft vacuum cup and met the study inclusion criteria. Episiotomy was performed in 1868 (79%) women, and 502 (21%) delivered without episiotomy. Background characteristics were similar in both groups. There were no significant differences in the rates of third and fourth grade perineal lacerations between the two groups. Episiotomy was associated with higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage (p < 0.01) CONCLUSIONS: Using selective episiotomy for patients delivering vaginally with the assistance of soft cap vacuum does not increase third- or fourth-degree perineal tears.

Conception after early IVF pregnancy loss: should we wait?

RESEARCH QUESTION: Is the interval length between an early pregnancy loss and the following treatment cycle a predictor for achieving clinical pregnancy among IVF patients? DESIGN: This retrospective cohort study of 257 women who reinitiated treatment after first-trimester IVF pregnancy loss was conducted at a tertiary, university-affiliated medical centre between 1 January 2014 to 1 January 2018. Women aged 18-40 years, with normal uterine cavity, who experienced first-trimester pregnancy loss at less than 14 weeks after IVF, were included. Miscarriages were classified as spontaneous, biochemical, medical or surgical. RESULTS: Among 257 women, interval to subsequent IVF treatment was not associated with achieving pregnancy. Patients after biochemical pregnancy (72.7 ± 56.4, median 60 days) or spontaneous miscarriage (97.7 ± 93.1, median 66 days) had shorter intervals to next cycle, compared with medical (111.9 ± 103.2, median 65 days) or surgical (123.4 ± 111.1, median 84 days) (Kaplan-Meier, P = 0.03) miscarriages. Logistic regression analysis showed that the chance of subsequent pregnancy was affected by the number of embryos transferred (P = 0.009) and the type of miscarriage. Medical (P = 0.005) and surgical (P = 0.017) miscarriages were related to lower likelihood of pregnancy compared with biochemical pregnancy (reference group). When pregnancy was achieved in the first post-miscarriage cycle, the chance of live birth increased with shorter intervals (median 57.5 days), whereas second miscarriage was related to longer intervals (median 82.5 days) between miscarriage and subsequent IVF cycle (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: On the basis of this cohort, IVF should not be postponed after pregnancy loss, as shorter intervals were associated with greater likelihood of live birth.

The association between maternal serum first trimester free ßhCG, second trimester intact hCG levels and foetal growth restriction and preeclampsia.

The purpose of this study was to analyse the association between free beta hCG (fßhCG) increased levels and pregnancy complications (PC), foetal growth restriction (FGR) and preeclampsia (PE). This connection was evaluated in two stages (i) investigating the association between those PC with first trimester fßhCG and second trimester intact hCG (ihCG), and (ii) studying the association between these two analytes in the same pregnancy. This was a retrospective study in two settings: medical centre that provided data on fßhCG and ihCG levels in pregnancies with FGR and PE, and central laboratory that provided fßhCG and ihCG levels that were compared in the same pregnancy. No association was found between those PC and the hCG analytes, except for elevated ihCG levels and FGR. Elevated fßhCG (>3.00 MoM) was found in 570/16,849 (3.4%) women. However, only 14% of whom had elevated second trimester ihCG. A positive correlation was found between the magnitude of first trimester fßhCG levels and the percentage of women who had elevated second trimester ihCG. This association was determined by the magnitude of the elevation of fßhCG levels. Impact statement What is already known on this subject: The two analytes, first trimester fßhCG and second trimester ihCG, are independently produced and parameters of the biochemical screening during pregnancy. What the results of this study add: Referring to 3.00 MoM as cut-off levels, most pregnancies with elevated levels of first trimester fßhCG will have normal ihCG second trimester levels. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research: The risk of developing pregnancy complications, FGR and PE should be associated with second trimester ihCG levels. About 3.5% of women had high fßhCG levels during the first trimester. However, only 14% also had increased ihCG levels, defined as >3.00 MoM; additional studies are needed to explore the association between increased first trimester fßhCG levels and the risk of developing pregnancy complications, independent of ihCG levels in the second trimester.

Diagnostic accuracy, work-up, and outcomes of pregnancies with clubfoot detected by prenatal sonography.

OBJECTIVE: To assess diagnostic accuracy, related findings, and outcomes of fetuses with clubfoot. METHODS: Sonographic characteristics, pregnancy work-up, and postnatal outcomes were evaluated in 109 fetuses with clubfoot. RESULTS: Among 40 320 prenatal ultrasound anomaly scans, clubfoot was diagnosed in 150 (0.37%). Analysis included 108 pregnancies (72%) with 109 fetuses. Bilateral clubfoot was diagnosed in 51/109 (46.7%) fetuses and unilateral in 58/109 (53.2%). Clubfoot was diagnosed as an isolated anomaly in 76/109 (69.7%) and complex in 33/109 (30.2%). Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling in 48/109 (44%) yielded 6 (12.5%) with abnormalities (5.5% of the entire cohort). Diagnosis was confirmed in 65/91 (71.4%) liveborn infants. In singletons, 7/63 (11.1%) cases considered isolated on ultrasound had additional anomalies postpartum and 8/14 (57.1%) complex cases were verified after birth. Sonographic diagnosis of clubfoot was verified postpartum in more singletons than twins (p = 0.05). Bilateral clubfoot was verified postpartum more often than unilateral [29/33 (87.9%) vs. 29/44 (65.9%), respectively; p = 0.03]. Bilateral clubfoot resulted in additional prenatal testing without increased likelihood of finding additional anomalies and was associated with more surgical interventions postnatally. CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of clubfoot is more accurate in singletons with bilateral findings. Bilateral findings do not increase the likelihood of additional anomalies. Karyotyping should be considered even with isolated clubfoot. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Skin closure at cesarean delivery, glue vs subcuticular sutures: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The optimal choice of skin closure at cesarean delivery has not yet been determined. OBJECTIVE: This study compared wound complications and scar healing following cesarean delivery between 2 methods of skin closure: glue (Dermabond; Ethicon, Somerville, NJ) and monofilament (Monocryl; Ethicon) epidermal sutures. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a randomized controlled trial in which pregnant women undergoing a scheduled cesarean delivery were randomly assigned to skin (epidermis) closure with glue or with a monofilament synthetic suture. The subcutaneous tissue was sutured for all patients. Outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. Scars were evaluated >8 weeks. Primary outcome measures were Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores. Secondary outcome measures were surgeon satisfaction, duration of surgery, duration of hospitalization after the cesarean delivery, and complications of surgical site infection or wound disruption (hematoma or seroma). A sample of 104 women was needed to achieve a clinically significant effect with a power of 80%. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics, patients' clinical background, prepregnancy body mass index, and subcutaneous thickness were similar in both groups. Length of surgery between the groups (37 ± 10 minutes for glue vs 39 ± 13 minutes for sutures, P = .515) was similar. Scores immediately after the wound closure were similar for both groups regarding surgeons' time estimate of closure (P = .181) and closure appearance (P = .082). Surgeons' satisfaction with the technique was significantly higher in the suture group (P = .003). No significant differences were found between the groups in blood loss, surgical site infection, length of postpartum hospitalization, or wound disruption. Glue and suture skin closure scores using Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale were similar 8 weeks after surgery, at P = .710 for patients and P = .568 for a physician observer. CONCLUSION: Skin closure using glue or a monofilament synthetic suture had similar results. Both methods were shown to be safe and successful for skin closure after a scheduled cesarean delivery and, therefore, can be used based on surgeon and patient preferences.

The association between stillbirth and fetal gender.

OBJECTIVE: Stillbirth accounts for approximately 50% of all perinatal deaths. We aimed to characterize the relationship between fetal gender and stillbirths. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of all stillbirths cases in a tertiary medical center, between 1995 and 2007. Patient's medical charts were reviewed for demographic information, medical data, and assumed etiology for stillbirth. Stillbirth was defined as fetal death after 20 completed weeks of gestation or birth weight above 500 g, excluding cases of fetal death due to elective termination of pregnancy. RESULTS: Overall, during the study period there were 77,120 deliveries, of them the stillbirth rate was 0.14% (n = 105). There were 59 females, 39 males (60.2% vs. 48.5%, p = 0.04) and 7 cases of stillbirth with undetermined gender. There were no differences in the demographic and obstetrical characteristics at diagnosis between women carrying a male versus female stillbirth fetuses. The rate of intra uterine fetal death due to placental abruption was significantly higher for male fetuses (OR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.3-4.5) and the rate of stillbirth due to placental insufficiency was significantly higher for female fetuses (OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.6-5.1). CONCLUSIONS: Female fetuses are overrepresented in cases of stillbirths compared with male fetuses.