Evaluation of maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnancy with preeclampsia at Aljala Maternity Hospital

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) accounts for 18% of maternal deaths worldwide, with an estimated number of about 62, 000­77, 000 deaths occur each year. The current study aimed to assess maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies complicated by hypertension in Aljala Maternity Hospital. A retrospective, descriptive, case series analysis for four hundred patients was done on the outcome of hypertensive disorder among pregnant women who admitted and were managed at Aljala teaching hospital with preeclampsia during the years 2019 and 2020. Demographic data involving age, parity, gestational week, clinical and laboratory findings were recorded from the medical files. Additionally, delivery route, indications of cesarean section, fetal and maternal complications were determined. The current finding reported high prevalence of perinatal and maternal mortality among pregnant women with preeclampsia. Moreover, other severe maternal and perinatal complications such as Hemolysis Elevated Liver Enzyme Platelet (HELLP) syndrome, placental abruption, eclamptic fits, as well as low birth weight were also commonly reported. The current study showed early onset of preeclampsia was associated with increased risk of developing adverse maternal-fetal/neonatal outcomes compared to lateonset after 36 weeks. Our findings call for special consideration and close surveillance of those women with early-onset diseases

Mortalidad Materna en Venezuela: aspectos médicos y Políticas (1940 - 2016) / Materna Mortality in Venezuela: medical issues and Public Policy (1940 - 2016)

En la actualidad Venezuela se encuentra en una crisis social y económica sin precedentes. La mortalidad materna(MM) es un indicador en salud importante, debido a que permite tener idea de la atención médica de un país; se mide a través de dos indicadores: Razón de Mortalidad Materna (RMM) y Tasa de Mortalidad Materna (TMM). Objetivo: Revisar y compararla evolución de ambos indicadores de MM desde la década de 1930 hasta la década 2000. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión de la literatura y de informes técnicos de organismos gubernamentales y no gubernamentales para el análisis de la situación previa y reciente de esta situación en Venezuela. Los resultados señalan que existe una notable disminución de las cifras de MM como ha de esperarse con el mejoramiento de la tecnología desde la década de 1930 hasta el año 2000; posteriormente ocurre un retroceso de la sanidad pública con cifras comparables a la década de 1960. Concluimos que la MM ha sido desde tiempos pasados un problema constante en la salud pública; al pasar los años y gobiernos, se han implementado numerosas políticas públicas para mejorar esta situación, muchas de estas estrategias han sido fallidas debido a la falta de su continuidad y de su cumplimiento pleno.

Venezuela is currently in an unprecedented socialand economic crisis. Maternal mortality is an important health indicator because it provides an idea of a country's medical care. Maternal mortality is usually measured through two indicators: Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) and Maternal Mortality Rate. Objective: Review and compare the evolution of both healthindicators from the 1930s to 2016. Methods: A review of the literature and technical reports from governmental andnon-governmental organizations was carried out to analyze theprevious and recent situation. of this situation in Venezuela. Theresults indicate that there is a notable decrease in the figures ofmaternal mortality, as should be expected with the improvementof technology from the 1930s to the year 2000. Subsequently, there is a decline in public health with figures comparable to the1960s. We conclude that maternal mortality has been a constant problem in public health since ancient times. Over the years and governments, numerous public policies have been implementedto improve this situation. Many of these strategies have beenfailed due to lack of continuity and in the absence of its full compliance.

Análise dos efeitos em fetos expostos à hiperêmese gravídica durante a gravidez / Analysis of the effects on fetuses exposed to hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy

INTRODUÇÃO: De etiologia desconhecida, a hiperêmese gravídica é um quadro caracterizado por vômitos persistentes, perda de 5% ou mais do peso, cetonúria, hipocalemia e desidratação. Acredita-se que a gonadotrofina coriônica humana (hCG) provoque aumento das náuseas e vômitos por meio de seu estímulo à produção de estrogênio pelo ovário, provocando a exacerbação dos sintomas do "enjoo matinal". OBJETIVO: Logo, essa revisão narrativa tem como objetivo analisar as repercussões fetais do quadro de hiperêmese gravídica. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas buscas em Sistema Online de Busca e Análise de Literatura Médica - MEDLINE®. Sendo utilizadas os Medical Subject Headings (MeSh terms) e seus sinônimos: "hyperemesis gravidarum", "fetal risks", sendo selecionados ao todo 13 artigos. RESULTADOS: Os estudos demonstraram que a hiperêmese gravídica pode trazer malefícios para mãe e feto. A gestante pode apresentar distúrbios eletrolíticos, encefalopatia de Wernicke, fraqueza muscular, disfunções emocionais como depressão, ansiedade e estresse pós-traumático. DISCUSSÃO: Os estudos revelaram que a patologia pode estar relacionada ao risco aumentado para desfechos adversos no nascimento, como baixo peso ao nascer, nascimento prematuro e pequena estatura para idade gestacional. Ademais, alguns estudos relataram os riscos prejudiciais no neurodesenvolvimento do recém-nascido, como problemas psicológicos e comportamentais na idade adulta, redução à sensibilidade à insulina, e comorbidades (obesidade e doenças cardiovasculares) além de distúrbios de desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor. CONCLUSÃO: Gestantes que apresentam o quadro de hiperêmese gravídica devem ser regularmente acompanhadas com consultas entre 1 a 2 semanas, conforme a gravidade do caso e o mais precocemente possível tratadas, a fim de evitar maiores complicações tanto maternas quanto fetais.

INTRODUCTION: Of unknown etiology, hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition characterized by persistent vomiting, 5% or more weight loss, ketonuria, hypokalemia and dehydration. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is believed to cause increased nausea and vomiting through its stimulation of estrogen production by the ovary, causing exacerbation of "morning sickness" symptoms. OBJECTIVE: Thus, this narrative review aims to analyze the fetal repercussions of hyperemesis gravidarum. METHODS: Searches were performed in the Online Medical Literature Analysis and Search System - MEDLINE®. The Medical Subject Headings (MeSh terms) and their synonyms were used: "hyperemesis gravidarum", "fetal risks", being selected a total of 13 articles. RESULTS: The studies showed that hyperemesis gravidarum can bring harm to mother and fetus. The pregnant woman may present electrolyte disturbances, Wernicke's encephalopathy, muscle weakness, emotional dysfunctions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. DISCUSSION: The studies revealed that hyperemesis gravidarum may be associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes. Furthermore, some studies reported harmful risks in neurodevelopment of the newborn, such as psychological and behavioral problems in adulthood, reduced sensitivity to insulin, and comorbidities (obesity and cardiovascular diseases) and neurodevelopmental disorders. CONCLUSION: Pregnant women who present with hyperemesis gravidarum should be followed up with consultations between 1 to 2 weeks, according to the severity of the case and treated as early as possible in order to avoid further complications both maternal and fetal.

Riesgo de depresión durante el embarazo en la atención prenatal de riesgo habitual / Risk of depression during pregnancy in usual risk antenatal care / Risco de depressão na gravidez na assistência pré-natal de risco habitual

Objetivo: identificar el riesgo de depresión durante el embarazo en gestantes de riesgo habitual incluidas en el control prenatal y los factores asociados. Método: estudio transversal, realizado con 201 gestantes, en el consultorio de prenatal de riesgo habitual de una maternidad universitaria. Para la recolección de datos se utilizó un formulario electrónico que contenía un instrumento de caracterización y la Escala de Riesgo de Depresión del Embarazo. La variable dependiente fue el riesgo de depresión en el embarazo. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el cálculo de la razón de posibilidades (Odds Ratio) y utilizando las pruebas de Chi-cuadrado y exacta de Fischer. Resultados: entre las participantes, 68,2% tenían mayor riesgo de depresión durante el embarazo. Hubo asociación estadísticamente significativa entre mayor riesgo de depresión durante el embarazo y la variable ocupación (p=0,04), o sea, la ausencia del trabajo (OR = 2,00) duplicó la probabilidad de ocurrencia. Conclusión: la alta prevalencia de riesgo de depresión durante el embarazo destaca la necesidad de planificación, priorización e integración de la salud mental en los servicios de salud prenatal, especialmente en el ámbito de la Atención Primaria de Salud, por parte de los gestores de salud y de los formuladores de políticas.

Objective: to identify the risk of depression during pregnancy among pregnant women receiving routine prenatal care and the associated factors. Method: a cross-sectional study, carried out with 201 pregnant women, in a routine prenatal clinic of a university maternity hospital. Data were collected using an electronic form containing a characterization instrument and the Escala de Risco de Depressão na Gravidez (Depression during Pregnancy Scale). The dependent variable was the risk of depression during pregnancy. Statistical analysis was performed by calculating the Odds Ratio and using the Chi-square and Fischer's Exact tests. Results: among the participants, 68.2% had a higher risk of depression during pregnancy. There was a statistically significant association between a higher risk of depression during pregnancy and occupation (p=0.04), that is, unemployment (OR=2.00) doubled the risk of depression. Conclusion: the high prevalence of the risk of depression during pregnancy indicates the necessity of planning, prioritizing, and integrating mental health into prenatal health services, especially in the primary healthcare environment, by health managers and policymakers.

Objetivo: identificar o risco de depressão na gravidez entre gestantes inseridas na assistência pré-natal de risco habitual e os fatores associados. Método: estudo transversal, realizado com 201 gestantes, no ambulatório de pré-natal de risco habitual de uma maternidade universitária. A coleta de dados utilizou um formulário eletrônico contendo um instrumento de caracterização e a Escala de Risco de Depressão na Gravidez. A variável dependente foi o risco de depressão na gravidez. A análise estatística deu-se pelo cálculo da razão de chances (Odds Ratio) e pelos testes Qui-quadrado e Exato de Fischer. Resultados: entre as participantes, 68,2% apresentaram maior risco de depressão na gravidez. Houve associação estatisticamente significativa entre o maior risco de depressão na gravidez e a variável ocupação (p=0,04), ou seja, a ausência de emprego (OR = 2,00) aumentou em duas vezes a chance de ocorrência. Conclusão: a alta prevalência de risco de depressão na gravidez evidencia a necessidade de planejamento, priorização e integração da saúde mental nos serviços de saúde pré-natal, principalmente no ambiente da Atenção Primária à Saúde, por parte de gestores de saúde e formuladores de políticas.

Protocolo Clínico - Quirúrgico de Cesárea en la Unidad Técnica de Alto Riesgo Obstétrico / Clinical-Surgical Protocol for Cesarean Section in the Obstetric High Risk Technical Unit

El procedimiento quirúrgico cesárea con miras a la historia es considerada como un avance de suma importancia en la dismi-nución del riesgo de mortalidad materna y perinatal1.Es la intervención más realizada a nivel de especialidad lo que conlleva riesgos inherentes, quirúrgicos y anestésicos2,3.En el año 2015 la incidencia en el Ecuador de terminación del embarazo por cesárea es del 29,3% en el sector público, 49,9% en Seguridad Social y 69,9% en clínicas privadas4. Para la Or-ganización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) en el mismo año refiere que "En ninguna región del mundo se justifica la incidencia de cesárea superior al 10- 15%"5. La variabilidad de indicación de cesárea, hace que sea necesaria la creación de guías y protocolos, para de esta manera unificar los criterios médicos, de acuerdo a la mejor evidencia científica disponible.

The cesarean section surgical procedure is historically considered a very important advance in reducing the risk of maternal and perinatal mortality1.It is the most frequently performed intervention at the specialty level, which entails inherent surgical and anesthetic risks2,3.In 2015, the incidence in Ecuador of termination of pregnancy by cesarean section is 29,3% in the public sector, 49,9% in Social Security and 69,9% in private clinics4. For the World Health Or-ganization (WHO) in the same year, it states that "In no region of the world is the incidence of cesarean section higher than 10-15% justified" 5.The variability of the indication for cesarean section makes it ne-cessary to create guidelines and protocols, in order to unify me-dical criteria, according to the best scientific evidence available.

Relação entre a condição bucal de gestantes internadas e desfechos adversos na gestação / Relationship between the oral condition of hospitalized pregnant women and adverse pregnancy outcomes

Objetivo: avaliar se a condição bucal favoreceu a presença de desfechos adversos da gestação (DAG) em mulheres internadas e acompanhadas em um hospital escola. Métodos: um estudo de coorte retrospectiva com mulheres grávidas que foram internadas entre setembro de 2019 e início de março de 2020 e que continuaram o acompanhamento obstétrico. Resultados: Das 65 gestantes que seguiram acompanhamento, 27 (41,5%) dos bebês nasceram pré-termo e 20 (30,8%) com baixo peso, sendo que as duas condições estavam presentes em 15 crianças (23,1%), sendo significantemente relacionadas com a menor semana gestacional na internação. Ao relacionar diferentes fatores com o desfecho pré-termo, houve diferença significante em gestantes com a ocupação "do lar" e com o tempo de internação igual ou maior que 10 dias e com a presença de baixo peso ao nascer. Não foi observada relação dos dados avaliados da condição bucal das gestantes na internação com o parto pré-termo. Conclusões: Gestantes que necessitam de internação hospitalar durante a gravidez, independente da condição bucal, aumentam a possibilidade de apresentarem DAG, sendo fundamental a realização do correto acompanhamento pré-natal.(AU)

Objective: to assess whether the oral condition favored the presence of adverse effects during pregnancy in pregnant women hospitalized and followed up at a teaching hospital. Methods: a retrospective cohort study with mothers who were hospitalized during pregnancy between September 2019 and early March 2020 and who continued obstetric follow-up. Results: 83 pregnant women were interviewed and 65 were followed up Of the 65 pregnant women who followed up, 27 (41.5%) of the babies were born preterm and 20 (30.8%) with low birth weight, and both conditions were present in 15 children (23.1%), being significantly related to the shortest gestational week at admission. When relating different factors with the preterm outcome, there was a significant difference in pregnant women with the occupation "housewife" and with the length of hospital stay equal to or greater than 10 days and with the presence of low birth weight. There was no relationship between the evaluated data on the oral condition of pregnant women during hospitalization and preterm delivery. Conclusions: Pregnant women who require hospitalization during pregnancy, regardless of oral condition, increase the possibility of having negative pregnancy outcomes, and correct prenatal care is essential. (AU)

Manejo de Disminución de Movimientos Fetales en pacientes del Área de Urgencias Obstétricas / Management of Decreased Fetal Movements in patients in the Obstetric Emergency Area

Los movimientos fetales son uno de los primeros signos de vitalidad fetal. Durante la gestación, éstos van apareciendo progresivamente. La adecuada adquisición y mantenimiento de los mismos durante la gestación indica un correcto desarrollo neuromuscular, así como de bienestar fetal1. La percepción materna de una Disminución de los Movimientos Fetales (DMF) constituye un motivo de consulta frecuente en los Servicios de Urgencias Obstétricas; toda paciente embarazada debe vigilar los movimientos fetales, mediante un conteo subjetivo de los movimientos del feto, a partir de las 24 semanas de gestación. La DMF constituye el 5 ­ 15% de motivos de consulta en los servicios de Urgencias en el tercer trimestre del embarazo. Hasta un 25% de fetos que presentan una DMF presentarán alguna complicación perinatal (malformaciones, retraso de crecimiento, parto prematuro, hemorragia fetomaterna, y éxitus fetal) incluso en población de bajo riesgo. El manejo inadecuado de la DMF representa un 10-15% de las muertes evitables a término1-3. Es por esto que ninguna paciente que consulte por Disminución de Movimientos Fetales debe ser dada de alta sin asegurarse del adecuado bienestar fetal.

Fetal movements are one of the first signs of fetal vitality. During gestation, they appear progressively. Adequate acquisition and maintenance of fetal movements during gestation indicates correct neuromuscular development, as well as fetal well-being1. Maternal perception of decreased fetal movements (DMP) is a frequent reason for consultation in Obstetric Emergency Departments; every pregnant patient should monitor fetal movements by subjectively counting fetal movements, starting at 24 weeks of gestation. FMD constitutes 5-15% of the reasons for consultation in the emergency department in the third trimester of pregnancy. Up to 25% of fetuses with FMD will present some perinatal complication (malformations, growth retardation, premature delivery, fetomaternal hemorrhage, and fetal death) even in low-risk populations. Inadequate management of FMD accounts for 10-15% of preventable deaths at term1-3. This is why no patient who consults for decreased fetal movements should be discharged without ensuring adequate fetal well-being.

Biochemical analysis of oxidative stress and purinergic system in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus / Análise bioquímica do estresse oxidativo e do sistema purinérgico em gestantes com diabetes mellitus gestacional

Background: Pregnancy is characterized as a physiological period with greater sensitivity to insulin resistance and changes in oxidative stress. Purinergic signaling is directly related to diabetes, as this condition modifies the concentration of extracellular ATP and the level of degradation of ATP to adenosine. Objective: Analyze oxidative stress and the purinergic system in pregnant women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and compare them with low-risk pregnant women (LR). Materials and Methods: The research was of a quantitative approach of an experimental nature. The study was carried out at the Clínica da Mulher, which serves high-risk pregnant women, and at the Family Health Centers, which serves low-risk pregnant women, both located in Chapecó, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Results: From the analysis, it was observed that oxidative stress was increased in pregnant women in LR compared to pregnant women with GDM by increasing the concentration of TBARS and reducing the concentration of Carbonyl Protein in pregnant women with LR. Regarding the purinergic system, there was a significant decrease in the hydrolysis of the nucleotides ATP, ADP, and AMP in pregnant women with GDM, and a significant increase in the hydrolysis of ADA, also in pregnant women with GDM. Conclusion: Therefore, pregnant women with GDM have less oxidative stress compared to pregnant women in LR concerning TBARS and Carbonyl Protein markers, thus allowing a greater antioxidant defense mechanism. Furthermore, concerning the purinergic system, there is an increase in the activity of ADA, which is directly related to the immunosuppression process, a necessary condition for the protection of the fetus during the gestational period (AU).

Introdução: A gravidez é caracterizada como um período fisiológico em que há uma maior sensibilidade a resistência à insulina e alterações no estresse oxidativo. A sinalização purinérgica está diretamente relacionada ao diabetes, pois esta condição modifica a concentração de ATP extracelular e o nível de degradação de ATP em adenosina. Objetivo:Analisar o estresse oxidativo e o sistema purinérgico em gestantes com Diabetes Mellitus Gestacional (DMG) e compará-los com gestantes de baixo risco (BR). Materiais e Métodos: A pesquisa foi de abordagem quantitativa, de caráter experimental. O estudo foi realizado na Clínica da Mulher, que atende gestantes de alto risco, e nas Unidades de Saúde da Família, que atendem gestantes de baixo risco, ambas localizadas no município de Chapecó, Santa Catarina, Brasil. Resultados: A partir das análises, observou-se que o estresse oxidativo apresentou-se aumentado em gestantes de BR quando comparado a gestantes com DMG. No que tange ao sistema purinérgico, houve uma diminuição significativa na hidrólise dos nucleotídeos ATP, ADP e AMP em gestantes com DMG, bem como um aumento significativo na hidrólise de ADA, também em gestantes com DMG. Conclusão: Portanto, gestantes com DMG possuem menor estresse oxidativo quando comparado a gestantes de BR, permitindo assim, um maior mecanismo de defesa antioxidante. Para mais, no que se refere ao sistema purinérgico, verifica-se o aumento da concentração de ADA está diretamente relacionada ao processo de imunossupressão, condição necessária à proteção do feto durante o período gestacional (AU).

Technologies Applied to the Mental Health Care of Pregnant Women: A Systematic Literature Review / Tecnologias aplicadas aos cuidados em saúde mental de grávidas: revisão sistemática da literatura

Abstract Objective: This article aims to review the literature regarding the use of technologies to promote mental health for pregnant women. We seek to: understand the strategies that pregnant women use for mental health care. Also, we investigate the existence of scientific evidence that validates such practices. Methods: This study follows the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. We analyze 27 studies published between 2012 and 2019. We include publications in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Results: The results revealed several different possibilities to use technology, including the use of text messages and mobile applications on smartphones. Mobile applications are the most commonly used approaches (22.5%). Regarding the strategies used, cognitive-behavioral approaches, including mood checks, relaxation exercises, and psychoeducation comprised 44.12% of the content. Conclusion: There is a need for further investigation and research and development efforts in this field to better understand the possibilities of intervention in mental health in the digital age.

Resumo Objetivo: Este artigo objetiva revisar a literatura quanto ao uso das tecnologias como promotoras de saúde mental de gestantes. Desta forma, compreender quais são as estratégias utilizadas no cuidado da saúde mental dessas mulheres, assim como verificar se há evidências científicas que justifiquem a implementação dessas práticas. Métodos: Este estudo segue o protocolo PRISMA para revisões sistemáticas de 27 estudos publicados em 2012-2019, incluindo publicações em português, inglês e espanhol. Resultados: Os resultados revelaram diferentes possibilidades de utilização da tecnologia, sendo o uso de mensagens de texto e de aplicativos em smartphones mais os utilizados (22,5%). No que se refere às ferramentas utilizadas, estratégias cognitivo-comportamentais, tais como verificação do humor, exercícios de relaxamento e psicoeducação compreenderam 44,12% do conteúdo. Conclusão: Verifica-se a necessidade de mais investimentos nessa área para que se possa compreender as possibilidades de intervenção em saúde mental na era digital.

Complicaciones materno-fetales en gestantes obesas del municipio Artemisa / Maternal-Fetal Complications in Obese Pregnant Women from Artemisa Municipality

Introducción: Un Índice de Masa Corporal superior de 30 kg/m2, al inicio de la gestación, se asocia con incremento de riesgo para presentar afecciones materno-fetales. Objetivo: Describir las principales complicaciones maternas o fetales asociadas a la obesidad en gestantes del municipio Artemisa. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, transversal, en Artemisa, en el 2016. De las 832 gestantes captadas, se seleccionaron 179 con Índice de Masa Corporal > 25 kg/m2 desde la etapa preconcepcional o en la captación del embarazo. Mediante revisión documental se obtuvo la información de interés: tipo de obesidad y complicaciones materno-fetales. Resultados: De las gestantes del estudio, 21,5 por ciento (179 de 832) iniciaron el embarazo con un Índice de Masa Corporal > 25 kg/m2; 61,5 por ciento110 de 179) padecían obesidad combinada con hipertensión arterial y/o diabetes. La frecuencia de complicaciones aumentó con la presencia de estas enfermedades asociadas. Las principales morbilidades maternas fueron: partos vaginales con complicaciones obstétricas, anemia, cesáreas, preeclampsia y diabetes gestacional. El 50 por ciento de las participantes tuvo descendencia afectada. Cuando la obesidad materna se acompañaba de hipertensión arterial, con frecuencia se observaron recién nacidos pretérmino. Si las obesas padecían diabetes pregestacional los defectos congénitos mayores resultaron las morbilidades predominantes en su descendencia. No se encontró asociación entre sobrepeso preconcepcional e incremento del riesgo de afecciones fetales. Conclusiones: Alrededor de 20 de cada 100 mujeres inician el embarazo con sobrepeso u obesidad, con un incremento del riesgo de complicaciones materno-fetales proporcional al aumento del Índice de Masa Corporal y a la gravedad con la que se presenta esta enfermedad. Este riesgo es mayor cuando la obesidad se combina con otras morbilidades maternas(AU)

Introduction: A body mass index higher than 30 kg/m2, at the beginning of pregnancy, is associated with an increased risk of presenting maternal-fetal conditions. Objective: To describe the main maternal or fetal complications associated with obesity in pregnant women from Artemisa Municipality. Methods: An observational and cross-sectional study was conducted in Artemisa in 2016. Of the 832 pregnant women, 179 with body mass index higher than 25 kg/m2 from the preconception stage or at the time of pregnancy were selected. Through documentary review, information of interest was obtained: type of obesity and maternal-fetal complications. Results: Of the pregnant women under study, 21.5 percent(179 of 832) started their pregnancy with a body mass index higher than 25 kg/m2, while 61.5 percent (110 of 179) suffered from obesity combined with arterial hypertension and/or diabetes. The frequency of complications increased with the presence of these associated diseases. The main maternal morbidities were vaginal deliveries with obstetric complications, anemia, cesarean sections, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. 50 percent of the participants had affected offspring. When maternal obesity was accompanied by arterial hypertension, preterm newborns were frequently observed. If obese women had pregestational diabetes, major congenital defects were the predominant morbidities in their offspring. No association was found between preconceptional overweight and increased risk of fetal conditions. Conclusions: About twenty out of a hundred women start pregnancy with overweight or obesity, with an increased risk for maternal-fetal complications proportional to the increase in body mass index and the severity with which this disease is manifested. This risk is higher when obesity is combined with other maternal morbidities(AU)

Perfusão arterial reversa gemelar: revisão da literatura / Twin reverse arterial perfusion: literature review

A perfusão arterial reversa gemelar é uma anormalidade rara que pode ocorrer em gestações gemelares monocoriônicas. Consiste em uma alteração na circulação fetoplacentária, com desvio de sangue de um dos gemelares para o outro, por meio de anastomoses arterioarteriais e venovenosas na superfície placentária e anastomoses arteriovenosas em áreas de circulação placentária compartilhada. O feto bombeador pode desenvolver insuficiência cardíaca devido ao aumento do débito cardíaco, e o feto receptor, perfundido por sangue pobre em oxigênio por meio do fluxo reverso, é severamente malformado, incompatível com a vida extrauterina. Este artigo apresenta o caso de uma gestação gemelar monocoriônica diamniótica, com manejo clínico conservador. O objetivo é relatar um caso de complicação rara de gestações monozigóticas e revisar condutas para diagnóstico e manejo adequado.(AU)

Twin reverse arterial perfusion is a rare abnormality that can occur in monochorionic twin pregnancies. It consists of an alteration in the fetal-placental circulation, with blood diversion from one of the twins to the other, through arterio-arterial and veno- venous anastomosis on the placental surface and arterio-venous anastomosis in areas of shared placental circulation. The pumping fetus may develop heart failure due to increased cardiac output, and the recipient fetus, perfused by oxygen-poor blood through reverse flow, is severely malformed, incompatible with extrauterine life. This article presents the case of a monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy, with conservative clinical management. The objective is to report a case of rare complication of monozygotic pregnancies and review procedures for diagnosis and adequate management.(AU)

Mortalidade fetal em gestantes com COVID-19 e outros desfechos materno-fetais: uma revisão integrativa da literatura / Fetal mortality in pregnant women with COVID-19 and other maternal-fetal outcomes: an integrative literature review

Objetivo: Analisar os resultados apresentados sobre a relação entre COVID-19 e gravidez, com foco no desfecho fetal. Fontes dos dados: Foi realizada a busca de artigos publicados entre 1 de janeiro de 2020 e 1 de junho de 2021 nas bases de dados PubMed, Embase e Cochrane, utilizando os seguintes descritores: "coronavirus infections", "coronavirus disease 2019", "COVID-19", "fetal mortality" e "fetus mortality". Seleção dos estudos: Foram encontrados 99 artigos, sendo selecionados 28 artigos para leitura completa por meio dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Ao final, 14 artigos foram escolhidos para serem incluídos na presente revisão. Coleta de dados: Para a extração dos dados dos artigos selecionados, utilizou-se o instrumento validado por Ursi (2005), modificado para se adequar à demanda do tema em questão. Síntese dos dados: Encontrou-se que a infecção por COVID-19 aumentou a morbimortalidade das gestantes, principalmente aquelas que já possuíam algum fator de risco para a doença grave. Além disso, a maioria dos estudos mostrou uma taxa aumentada de nascimentos prematuros entre os filhos de mães infectadas. Não foram demonstrados resultados consistentes de aumento nas taxas de aborto, mortalidade fetal ou transmissão vertical. Conclusão: Ações de saúde devem priorizar o cuidado materno-fetal com o objetivo de prevenir a doença nas gestantes e acompanhar de forma mais cuidadosa aquelas infectadas pelo vírus, de forma a prevenir a morbimortalidade materna e a prematuridade, que são importantes marcadores de saúde pública.(AU)

Objective: To analyze the results presented on the relationship between COVID-19 and pregnancy, focusing on fetal outcome. Data sources: We searched for articles published between January 1, 2020 and June 1, 2021 in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases, using the following descriptors: "coronavirus infections", "coronavirus disease 2019", "COVID-19", "fetal mortality" and "fetus mortality". Selection of studies: 99 articles were found, and 28 articles were selected for full reading through inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the end, 14 articles were chosen to be included in this review. Data collection: To extract data from selected articles, the instrument validated by Ursi (2005) was used, modified to suit the demand of the topic in question. Data synthesis: It was found that COVID-19 infection increased the morbidity and mortality of pregnant women, especially those who already had some risk factor for severe disease. In addition, most studies have shown an increased rate of preterm births among children of infected mothers. No consistent results of increased rates of miscarriage, fetal mortality or mother-to-child transmission have been demonstrated. Conclusion: Health actions should prioritize maternal- fetal care in order to prevent the disease in pregnant women and more carefully monitor those infected with the virus, in order to prevent maternal morbidity and mortality and prematurity, which are important public health markers.(AU)

Sistema de Enfermagem apoio-educação na promoção do autocuidado a gestante de alto risco: Revisão Integrativa / The supportive-educative nursing system in the promotion of self-care among high-risk pregnant women: integrative review / Apoyo-educación del sistema de enfermería en la promoción del autocuidado a embarazadas de alto riesgo: revisión integradora

Objetivo: analisar as ações do sistema de Enfermagem apoio-educação proposto pela Teoria dos Sistemas de Enfermagem de Dorothea Orem, na promoção do autocuidado a gestantes de alto risco a partir dos diagnósticos de Enfermagem da taxonomia da NANDA-I. Método: revisão integrativa realizada nas bases de dados CINAHL, Medline/Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, biblioteca SciELO e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde. Resultados: a amostra foi composta por 17 artigos que evidenciaram que as ações ocorrem, principalmente, por meio de orientações sobre o plano de cuidados, a adoção de hábitos saudáveis, a cessação do uso de drogas, o controle de doenças e a manutenção do vínculo com a Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS). Conclusão: as principais ações do sistema de Enfermagem apoio-educação na promoção do autocuidado a gestantes de alto risco foram realizadas por meio da implementação de intervenções de Enfermagem voltadas às orientações sobre a importância da realização do pré-natal e prática de hábitos saudáveis durante a gestação. Essas ações foram benéficas para as gestantes de alto risco e são comuns a maioria dos diagnósticos de Enfermagem identificados na população em estudo.(AU)

Objective: to analyze the supportive-educative Nursing system actions proposed by Dorothea Orem's Theory of Nursing Systems in promoting self-care among high-risk pregnant women based on Nursing diagnoses of NANDA-I taxonomy. Method: integrative review conducted on the following databases: CINAHL, Medline/Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, SciELO Library, and Virtual Health Library. Results: the sample comprised 17 papers reporting that the actions are implemented through guidance focused on the care plan, healthy lifestyle, the need to stop using drugs, disease control, and the need to maintain bonds with the Primary Health Care (PHC) service. Conclusion: the main supportive-educative Nursing system actions in promoting self-care among high-risk pregnant women were implemented through Nursing interventions to provide guidance regarding the importance of attending prenatal care and acquiring healthy habits during pregnancy. These actions benefited high-risk pregnant women and are common to most Nursing diagnoses identified in the study population.(AU)

Objetivo: analizar las acciones del sistema de apoyo-educación de Enfermería propuesto por la Teoría de los Sistemas de Enfermería de Dorothea Orem en la promoción del autocuidado a embarazadas de alto riesgo a partir de los diagnósticos de Enfermería de la taxonomía NANDA-I. Método: revisión integrativa realizada en las bases de datos CINAHL, Medline/Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Science Direct, Biblioteca Cochrane, Biblioteca SciELO y Biblioteca Virtual de Salud. Resultados: la muestra estaba compuesta por 17 artículos que mostraron que las acciones ocurren principalmente a través de la orientación sobre el plan de cuidados, la realización de hábitos saludables, el cese del uso de medicamentos, el control de enfermedades y el mantenimiento del vínculo con la Atención Primaria de Salud. Conclusão: las principales acciones del apoyo-educación del sistema de Enfermería en la ...(AU)

Clinical analysis of 86 cases of acute fatty liver of pregnancy / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics and maternal and fetal prognosis of pregnant women with acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP). Methods: The clinical data of 86 AFLP pregnant women admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University from September 2017 to August 2022 were collected, and their general data, clinical characteristics, laboratory tests and maternal and fetal outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Results: (1) General information: the age of the 86 pregnant women with AFLP was (30.8±5.4) years, and the body mass index was (21.0±2.5) kg/m2. There were 50 primiparas (58.1%, 50/86) and 36 multiparas (41.9%, 36/86). There were 64 singleton pregnancies (74.4%, 64/86) and 22 twin pregnancies (25.6%, 22/86). (2) Clinical characteristics: the main complaints of AFLP pregnant women were gastrointestinal symptoms, including epigastric pain (68.6%, 59/86), nausea (47.7%, 41/86), anorexia (46.5%, 40/86), vomiting (39.5%, 34/86). The main non-gastrointestinal symptoms were jaundice of skin and/or scleral (54.7%, 47/86), edema (38.4%, 33/86), fatigue (19.8%, 17/86), bleeding tendency (16.3%, 14/86), polydipsia or polyuria (14.0%, 12/86), skin itching (8.1%, 7/86), and 17.4% (15/86) AFLP pregnant women had no obvious symptoms. (3) Laboratory tests: the incidence of liver and kidney dysfunction and abnormal coagulation function in AFLP pregnant women was high, and the levels of blood ammonia, lactate dehydrogenase and lactic acid were increased, and the levels of hemoglobin, platelet and albumin decreased. However, only 24 cases (27.9%, 24/86) of AFLP pregnant women showed fatty liver by imageology examination. (4) Pregnancy outcomes: ① AFLP pregnant women had a high incidence of pregnancy complications, mainly including renal insufficiency (95.3%, 82/86), preterm birth (46.5%, 40/86), hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (30.2%, 26/86), gestational diabetes mellitus (36.0%, 31/86), fetal distress (24.4%, 21/86), pulmonary infection (23.3%, 20/86), disseminated intravascular coagulation (16.3%, 14/86), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (16.3%, 14/86), hepatic encephalopathy (9.3%, 8/86), and intrauterine fetal death (2.3%, 2/86). ② Treatment and outcome of AFLP pregnant women: the intensive care unit transfer rate of AFLP pregnant women was 66.3% (57/86). 82 cases were improved and discharged after treatment, 2 cases were transferred to other hospitals for follow-up treatment, and 2 cases (2.3%, 2/86) died. ③ Neonatal outcomes: except for 2 cases of intrauterine death, a total of 106 neonates were delivered, including 39 cases (36.8%, 39/106) of neonatal asphyxia, 63 cases (59.4%, 63/106) of neonatal intensive care unit admission, and 3 cases (2.8%, 3/106) of neonatal death. Conclusions: AFLP is a severe obstetric complication, which is harmful to mother and fetus. In the process of clinical diagnosis and treatment, attention should be paid to the clinical manifestations and laboratory tests of pregnant women, early diagnosis and active treatment, so as to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Research progress on the effect of mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress caused by hypoxia during pregnancy on preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction / 生理学报

Preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) of the fetus are the two most common pregnancy complications worldwide, affecting 5%-10% of pregnant women. Preeclampsia is associated with significantly increased maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Hypoxia-induced uteroplacental dysfunction is now recognized as a key pathological factor in preeclampsia and IUGR. Reduced oxygen supply (hypoxia) disrupts mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function. Hypoxia has been shown to alter mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and induce ER stress. Hypoxia during pregnancy is associated with excessive production of ROS in the placenta, leading to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs in a number of human diseases, including high blood pressure during pregnancy. Studies have shown that uterine placental tissue/cells in preeclampsia and IUGR show high levels of oxidative stress, which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of both the complications. This review summarizes the role of hypoxia-induced mitochondrial oxidative stress and ER stress in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia/IUGR and discusses the potential therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative stress to treat both the pregnancy complications.

Association between low ambient temperature during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Extreme temperature events, including extreme cold, are becoming more frequent worldwide, which might be harmful to pregnant women and cause adverse birth outcomes. We aimed to investigate the association between exposure to low ambient temperature in pregnant women and adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth, and to summarize the evidence herein.@*METHODS@#Relevant studies were searched in PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase electronic databases until November 2021. Studies involving low ambient temperature, preterm birth, birth weight, and stillbirth were included. The guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses were followed to conduct this study risk of bias and methods for data synthesis.@*RESULTS@#A total of 34 studies were included. First, pregnant women exposed to low ambient temperature had an increased risk of preterm birth (risk ratio [RR] 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-1.13). Subgroup analyses revealed that exposure during late pregnancy was more likely to induce preterm birth. In addition, only pregnant women exposed to <1st percentile of the mean temperature suffered increased risk of preterm birth. Moreover, pregnant women living in medium or hot areas were more prone to have preterm births than those in cold areas when exposed to low ambient temperatures. Asians and Blacks were more susceptible to low ambient temperatures than Caucasians. Second, pregnant women exposed to low ambient temperature had an increased risk of low birth weight (RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.03-1.12). Third, pregnant women had an increased risk of stillbirth while exposed to low ambient temperature during the entire pregnancy (RR 4.63; 95% CI 3.99-5.38).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Exposure to low ambient temperature during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse birth outcomes. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to extremely low ambient temperature (<1st percentile of the mean temperature), especially in their late pregnancy. This study could provide clues for preventing adverse outcomes from meteorological factors.@*REGISTRATION@#No. CRD42021259776 at PROSPERO ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ ).

Perinatal risk factors for the occurrence of singleton apparently stillborn infants / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To identify the perinatal risk factors for the occurrence of singleton apparently stillborn infants.@*METHODS@#This was a case-control study. A total of 154 singleton neonates with gestational age ≥28 weeks and Apgar score of 0-1 who were subsequently successfully resuscitated in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University from January 2006 to December 2015 were enrolled as the case group (apparently stillborn group). A total of 616 singleton infants born from January 2006 to December 2015 (1-minute Apgar score >1) were randomly selected in a 1:4 ratio as the control group. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the perinatal risk factors for the occurrence of apparently stillborn infants.@*RESULTS@#The gestational age and birth weight in the apparently stillborn group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). The incidences of fetal hydrops, cord prolapse, grade III meconium-stained amniotic fluid, placental abruption, breech presentation, severe pre-eclampsia, maternal general anesthesia at delivery, abnormal antenatal fetal heart monitoring and decreased fetal movement were significantly higher in the apparently stillborn group than those in the control group (P<0.05). The multivariate logistic analysis showed that the mother had general anesthesia at delivery (OR=34.520), decreased antenatal fetal movement (OR=28.168),placental abruption (OR=15.641), grade III meconium-stained amniotic fluid (OR=6.365), abnormal antenatal fetal heart monitoring (OR=5.739), and breech presentation (OR=2.614) were risk factors for the occurrence of apparently stillborn infants (P<0.05), while higher gestational age was a protective factor (OR=0.686, P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Attention needs to be paid to mothers with abnormal prenatal fetal heart monitoring, decreased fetal movement, preterm labor, placental abruption, breech presentation, grade III meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and general anesthesia. Preparations for resuscitation should be done to rescue apparently stillborn infants.

Research progress on long-term developmental outcomes of offspring of pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus / 中国当代儿科杂志

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease that affects multiple organs and systems. It is more common in women of childbearing age. Compared with the general population, pregnant women with SLE are at a significantly increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes such as preterm birth and intrauterine growth restriction. In addition, the offspring of SLE patients may also be adversely affected by in utero exposure to maternal autoantibodies, cytokines, and drugs. This article summarizes the long-term developmental outcomes of offspring of pregnant women with SLE in terms of the blood system, circulatory system, nervous system, and immune system.

Emerging role of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs in pregnancy-associated diseases / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

Accumulating studies have demonstrated that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), functioning as important regulators of transcription and translation, are involved in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, especially the maternal immune adaptation process. The endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), trophoblast cells, and decidua immune cells that reside at the maternal-fetal interface are thought to play significant roles in normal pregnancy and pregnancy-associated diseases. Here, we reviewed the up-to-date evidence on how microRNA, long non-coding RNA, and circular RNA regulate ESCs, trophoblast cells, and immune cells and discussed the potential applications of these ncRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic markers in pregnancy complications.