Outcomes of subsequent pregnancy in women with peripartum cardiomyopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The primary concern for women who have experienced peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is the safety of a subsequent pregnancy (SSP). To maximie decision-making, facilitate effective patient counselling, and ultimately improve maternal and fetal outcomes as a whole, it is critical to comprehend the outcomes of SSP in women who have previously experienced PPCM. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of SSP in women with PPCM. METHODS: Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect) were used to identify relevant studies prior to 17 October 2023. A total of 662 studies were reviewed. Following the abstract and full-text screenings, 18 observational studies were included, out of which 2 were deemed suitable for inclusion in this meta-analysis. The quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: This study has a total of 487 SSPs. Although recovered left ventricular (LV) function before entering SSP has the potential to be a beneficial prognostic factor, recovered LV function still has a substantial risk of relapse. The mortality rate of PPCM in an SSP ranged from 0% to 55.5%. Persistent LV dysfunction was significantly associated with an increased mortality rate (OR 13.17; 95% CI 1.54 to 112.28; p=0.02) and lower LV ejection fraction (MD -12.88; 95% CI -21.67 to -4.09; p=0.004). Diastolic and right ventricular functions remained unchanged before SSP and at follow-up. The majority of the SSP was observed alongside hypertension, while pre-eclampsia emerged as the predominant hypertensive complication in most studies. CONCLUSION: SSP increases the risk of relapse and mortality in women with a previous history of PPCM. Persistent LV dysfunction prior to the SSP has a higher mortality risk compared with recovered LV function. SSP was also associated with the worsening of LV echocardiography parameters.

Placental senescence pathophysiology is shared between peripartum cardiomyopathy and preeclampsia in mouse and human.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is an idiopathic form of pregnancy-induced heart failure associated with preeclampsia. Circulating factors in late pregnancy are thought to contribute to both diseases, suggesting a common underlying pathophysiological process. However, what drives this process remains unclear. Using serum proteomics, we identified the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a marker of cellular senescence associated with biological aging, as the most highly up-regulated pathway in young women with PPCM or preeclampsia. Placentas from women with preeclampsia displayed multiple markers of amplified senescence and tissue aging, as well as overall increased gene expression of 28 circulating proteins that contributed to SASP pathway enrichment in serum samples from patients with preeclampsia or PPCM. The most highly expressed placental SASP factor, activin A, was associated with cardiac dysfunction or heart failure severity in women with preeclampsia or PPCM. In a murine model of PPCM induced by cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of the gene encoding peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α, inhibiting activin A signaling in the early postpartum period with a monoclonal antibody to the activin type II receptor improved heart function. In addition, attenuating placental senescence with the senolytic compound fisetin in late pregnancy improved cardiac function in these animals. These findings link senescence biology to cardiac dysfunction in pregnancy and help to elucidate the pathogenesis underlying cardiovascular diseases of pregnancy.

Selenium Deficiency as a Risk Factor for Peripartum Cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a multifactorial disease. Although the specific aetiology and pathogenesis of PPCM are unknown, several hypotheses have been proposed, including selenium deficiency. However, the risk of PPCM from selenium deficiency was not previously quantified. This posthoc analysis of peripartum cardiomyopathy in Nigeria (PEACE) registry data aimed to determine if selenium deficiency is an independent risk factor for PPCM. METHODS: Apparently healthy women who delivered within the previous 8 weeks and PPCM patients in Kano, Nigeria, were compared for selenium deficiency (<70µg/L) and other relevant socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Selenium level was measured at recruitment for each subject. Independent predictors of PPCM were determined using logistic regression models. RESULTS: 159 PPCM patients and 90 age-matched controls were consecutively recruited. 84.9% of the patients and 3.3% of controls had selenium deficiency. Selenium deficiency independently increased the odds for PPCM by 167-fold while both unemployment and lack of formal education independently increased the odds by 3.4-fold. CONCLUSION: Selenium deficiency was highly prevalent among PPCM patients in Kano, Nigeria, and significantly increased the odds for PPCM. These results could justify screening of women in their reproductive years for selenium deficiency, particularly those living in regions with high incidence of PPCM. The results also call for the setting up of a definitive clinical trial of selenium supplementation in PPCM patients with selenium deficiency, to further define its benefits in the treatment of PPCM.

CONTEXTE: La cardiomyopathie péripartum (CMPP) est une maladie multifactorielle. Bien que l'étiologie spécifique et la pathogenèse de la CMPP soient inconnues, plusieurs hypothèses ont été proposées, notamment la carence en sélénium. Cependant, le risque de CMPP lié à la carence en sélénium n'a pas été précédemment quantifié. Cette analyse post-hoc des données du registre de la cardiomyopathie péripartum au Nigéria (PEACE) visait à déterminer si la carence en sélénium est un facteur de risque indépendant de la CMPP. MÉTHODES: Des femmes apparemment en bonne santé ayant accouché dans les 8 semaines précédentes et des patientes atteintes de CMPP à Kano, au Nigéria, ont été comparées pour la carence en sélénium (<70µg/L) et d'autres caractéristiques socio-démographiques et cliniques pertinentes. Le taux de sélénium a été mesuré au recrutement pour chaque sujet. Les prédicteurs indépendants de la CMPP ont été déterminés à l'aide de modèles de régression logistique. RÉSULTATS: 159 patientes atteintes de CMPP et 90 témoins appariés selon l'âge ont été recrutés consécutivement. 84,9% des patientes et 3,3% des témoins présentaient une carence en sélénium. La carence en sélénium augmentait indépendamment les chances de CMPP de 167 fois, tandis que le chômage et le manque d'éducation formelle augmentaient indépendamment les chances de 3,4 fois. CONCLUSION: La carence en sélénium était très répandue parmi les patientes atteintes de CMPP à Kano, au Nigéria, et augmentait significativement les chances de CMPP. Ces résultats pourraient justifier le dépistage de la carence en sélénium chez les femmes en âge de procréer, en particulier celles vivant dans des régions à forte incidence de CMPP. Les résultats appellent également à la mise en place d'un essai clinique définitif sur la supplémentation en sélénium chez les patientes atteintes de CMPP présentant une carence en sélénium, afin de définir davantage ses avantages dans le traitement de la CMPP. MOTS-CLÉS: Cardiomyopathie Péripartum; Carence en Sélénium; Facteur de Risque.

Hydrogen-rich water supplementation improves metabolic profile during peripartum period in Gurcu goats and enhances the health and survival of kids.

In this study, the effect of intaking hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on the metabolic profile of Gurcu goats during the peripartum period and the survival/growth performance of kids were evaluated. Twenty-three pregnant goats were divided into two groups 21-23 days before the due date. Group 1 (G1, n = 10) was given HRW from day 21 before delivery until day 21 after delivery. Group 2 (G2, n = 13) served as the control. Blood samples were weekly taken from 21 days before delivery until 21 days after delivery. Hydrogen-rich water increased serum glucose concentration on the delivery day more than in G2 (P = 0.016). Hydrogen-rich water decreased serum total cholesterol (P = 0.02) and creatinine (P = 0.05) concentration at delivery. Group effect and time effect were significant in triglyceride (P < 0.001, P = 0.001, respectively) and albumin (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively) concentration. Aspartate transaminase decreased towards the delivery day in G1 (P < 0.05). Serum non-esterified fatty acids concentration was lower in G1 than in G2, but there was no significant differences (P > 0.05). Beta-hydroxybutyric acid concentration an increased in both groups during the prepartum period, although there was no significance (P > 0.05). Hydrogen-rich water did not affect the birth weight and growth performance of the kids (P > 0.05), but it increased their survival rates and overall health, although there was no significance (P > 0.05). In conclusion, HRW may have an impact on the metabolic profiles during the peripartum period and have a positive effect on lipid profiles. Additionally, intaking HRW to goats during the peripartum period may improve the health and survival of kids and reduce their mortality.

Caesarean Delivery: A Narrative Review on the Choice of Neuraxially Administered Opioid and Its Implications for the Multimodal Peripartum Pain Concept.

Nowadays, obstetrical anesthesia-related mortality is a very rare complication in industrialized countries. The recommended choice of intrathecal opioid for spinal anesthesia in the context of a multimodal peripartum pain management concept is discussed in this narrative review. Nowadays, there is a consensus that a perioperative multimodal pain concept should be used for caesarean delivery. This pain concept should include neuraxial opioids for spinal anesthesia, acetaminophen, NSAIDs, intravenous dexamethasone, and postoperative local or regional anesthetic procedures. Long-acting lipophobic opioids (diamorphine and morphine) have a significant analgesic advantage over short-acting lipophilic opioids (sufentanil and fentanyl). The risk of clinically relevant respiratory depression after neuraxial long-acting opioids is nowadays considered negligible, even if the data situation is weak in this regard. The question remains as to whether a pain concept that is ideally adapted to a neuraxial short-acting opioid shows benefit to a pain concept that is optimally adapted to neuraxial morphine. If long-acting opioids are used, the timing of each additional component of the multimodal analgesia strategy could ideally be adjusted to this longer duration of action.

The physiology and pharmacology of oxytocin in labor and in the peripartum period.

Oxytocin is a reproductive hormone implicated in the process of parturition and widely used during labor. Oxytocin is produced within the supraoptic nucleus and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary lobe into the circulation. Oxytocin is released in pulses with increasing frequency and amplitude in the first and second stages of labor, with a few pulses released in the third stage of labor. During labor, the fetus exerts pressure on the cervix of the uterus, which activates a feedforward reflex-the Ferguson reflex-which releases oxytocin. When myometrial contractions activate sympathetic nerves, it decreases oxytocin release. When oxytocin binds to specific myometrial oxytocin receptors, it induces myometrial contractions. High levels of circulating estrogen at term make the receptors more sensitive. In addition, oxytocin stimulates prostaglandin synthesis and release in the decidua and chorioamniotic membranes by activating a specific type of oxytocin receptor. Prostaglandins contribute to cervical ripening and uterine contractility in labor. The oxytocin system in the brain has been implicated in decreasing maternal levels of fear, pain, and stress, and oxytocin release and function during labor are stimulated by a social support. Moreover, studies suggest, but have not yet proven, that labor may be associated with long-term, behavioral and physiological adaptations in the mother and infant, possibly involving epigenetic modulation of oxytocin production and release and the oxytocin receptor. In addition, infusions of synthetic oxytocin are used to induce and augment labor. Oxytocin may be administered according to different dose regimens at increasing rates from 1 to 3 mIU/min to a maximal rate of 36 mIU/min at 15- to 40-minute intervals. The total amount of synthetic oxytocin given during labor can be 5 to 10 IU, but lower and higher amounts of oxytocin may also be given. High-dose infusions of oxytocin may shorten the duration of labor by up to 2 hours compared with no infusion of oxytocin; however, it does not lower the frequency of cesarean delivery. When synthetic oxytocin is administered, the plasma concentration of oxytocin increases in a dose-dependent way: at infusion rates of 20 to 30 mIU/min, plasma oxytocin concentration increases approximately 2- to 3-fold above the basal level. Synthetic oxytocin administered at recommended dose levels is not likely to cross the placenta or maternal blood-brain barrier. Synthetic oxytocin should be administered with caution as high levels may induce tachystole and uterine overstimulation, with potentially negative consequences for the fetus and possibly the mother. Of note, 5 to 10 IU of synthetic oxytocin is often routinely given as an intravenous or intramuscular bolus administration after delivery to induce uterine contractility, which, in turn, induces uterine separation of the placenta and prevents postpartum hemorrhage. Furthermore, it promotes the expulsion of the placenta.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy: A case report of decompensated heart failure in a hypertensive patient.

RATIONALE: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) occurring in the context of hypertension presents a unique clinical challenge. This case contributes to the medical literature by highlighting the complexities of managing heart failure in postpartum women with pre-existing hypertensive disorders, particularly when complicated by a history of preeclampsia. PATIENT CONCERNS: Mrs. O.O., a 34-year-old hypertensive woman, presented with progressive dyspnea, bilateral leg swelling, and orthopnea. Notably, she had a history of previous preeclampsia and exhibited worsening symptoms over several months. DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with decompensated heart failure secondary to PPCM, exacerbated by hypertension and anemia. INTERVENTIONS: Therapeutic interventions included diuretics, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, digoxin, and anticoagulation. Additionally, lifestyle modifications and dietary restrictions were implemented. OUTCOMES: Following treatment adjustments, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms, exercise tolerance, and cardiac function. The transition from NYHA class III to class II heart failure indicated successful management. LESSONS: This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing PPCM in hypertensive patients, with attention to cardiovascular and obstetric factors. It highlights the effectiveness of multidisciplinary care in achieving positive outcomes and emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance in postpartum women with cardiovascular risk factors.

State-Level Analysis of Intimate Partner Violence, Abortion Access, and Peripartum Homicide: Call for Screening and Violence Interventions for Pregnant Patients.

BACKGROUND: Despite representing 4% of the global population, the US has the fifth highest number of intentional homicides in the world. Peripartum people represent a unique and vulnerable subset of homicide victims. This study aimed to understand the risk factors for peripartum homicide. STUDY DESIGN: We used data from the 2018 to 2020 National Violent Death Reporting System to compare homicide rates of peripartum and nonperipartum people capable of becoming pregnant (12 to 50 years of age). Peripartum was defined as currently pregnant or within 1-year postpartum. We additionally compared state-level peripartum homicide rates between states categorized as restrictive, neutral, or protective of abortion. Pearson's chi-square and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used. RESULTS: There were 496 peripartum compared with 8,644 nonperipartum homicide victims. The peripartum group was younger (27.4 ± 71 vs 33.0 ± 9.6, p < 0.001). Intimate partner violence causing the homicide was more common in the peripartum group (39.9% vs 26.4%, p < 0.001). Firearms were used in 63.4% of homicides among the peripartum group compared with 49.5% in the comparison (p < 0.001). A significant difference was observed in peripartum homicide between states based on policies regarding abortion access (protective 0.37, neutral 0.45, restrictive 0.64; p < 0.01); the same trend was not seen with male homicides. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with nonperipartum peers, peripartum people are at increased risk for homicide due to intimate partner violence, specifically due to firearm violence. Increasing rates of peripartum homicide occur in states with policies that are restrictive to abortion access. There is a dire need for universal screening and interventions for peripartum patients. Research and policies to reduce violence against pregnant people must also consider the important role that abortion access plays in protecting safety.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy unveiled: Etiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic insights.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) remains a significant challenge in maternal health, marked by its unpredictable onset and varied clinical outcomes. With rising incidence rates globally, understanding PPCM is vital for improving maternal care and prognosis. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on PPCM, highlighting recent advancements in its diagnosis, management, and therapeutic approaches. This comprehensive review delves into the epidemiology of PPCM, underscoring its global impact and demographic variations. We explore the complex etiology of the condition, examining known risk factors and discussing the potential pathophysiological mechanisms, including oxidative stress and hormonal influences. The clinical presentation of PPCM, often similar yet distinct from other forms of cardiomyopathy, is analyzed to aid in differential diagnosis. Diagnostic challenges are addressed, emphasizing the role of advanced imaging and biomarkers. Current management strategies are reviewed, focusing on the absence of disease-specific treatments and the application of general heart failure protocols. The review also discusses the prognosis of PPCM, factors influencing recovery, and the implications for future pregnancies. Finally, we highlight emerging research directions and the urgent need for disease-specific therapies, aiming to provide a roadmap for future studies and improved patient care. This review serves as a crucial resource for clinicians and researchers, contributing to a deeper understanding and better management of PPCM.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy in low- and middle-income countries.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) causes pregnancy-associated heart failure, typically during the last month of pregnancy, and up to 6 months post-partum, in women without known cardiovascular disease. PPCM is a global disease, but with a significant geographical variability within and between countries. Its true incidence in Africa is still unknown because of the lack of a PPCM population-based study. The variability in the epidemiology of PPCM between and within countries could be due to differences in the prevalence of both genetic and non-genetic risk factors. Several risk factors have been implicated in the aetiopathogenesis of PPCM over the years. Majority of patients with PPCM present with symptoms and signs of congestive cardiac failure. Diagnostic work up in PPCM is prompted by strong clinical suspicion, but Echocardiography is the main imaging technique for diagnosis. The management of PPCM involves multiple disciplines - cardiologists, anaesthetists, intensivists, obstetricians, neonatologists, and the prognosis varies widely.

Rural/urban disparities in the trends and outcomes of peripartum cardiomyopathy in delivery hospitalizations.

BACKGROUND: Rural-urban disparities in peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) are not well known. We examined rural-urban differences in maternal, fetal, and cardiovascular outcomes in PPCM during delivery hospitalizations. METHODS: We used 2003-2020 data from the National Inpatient Sample for delivery hospitalizations in individuals with PPCM. The 9th and 10th editions of the International Classification of Diseases were used to identify PPCM and cardiovascular, maternal, and fetal outcomes. Rural and urban hospitalizations for PPCM were 1:1 propensity score-matched using relevant clinical and sociodemographic variables. Odds of in-hospital mortality were assessed using logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 72,880 delivery hospitalizations with PPCM, 4,571 occurred in rural locations, while 68,309 occurred in urban locations. After propensity matching, there were a total of 4,571 rural-urban pairs. There was significantly higher in-hospital mortality in urban compared to rural hospitalizations (adjusted OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.10-1.89). Urban PPCM hospitalizations had significantly higher cardiogenic shock (2.9% vs. 1.3%), mechanical circulatory support (1.0% vs. 0.6%), cardiac arrest (2.3% vs. 0.9%), and VT/VF (4.5% vs. 2.1%, all p <.05). Additionally, urban PPCM hospitalizations had worse maternal and fetal outcomes as compared to rural hospitalizations, including higher preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and fetal death (all p<.05). Notably, significantly more rural individuals were transferred to a short-term hospital (including tertiary care centers) compared to urban individuals (13.5% vs. 3.2%, p<.0001). CONCLUSIONS: There are significant rural-urban disparities in delivery hospitalizations with PPCM. Worse outcomes were associated with urban hospitalizations, while rural PPCM hospitalizations were associated with increased transfers, suggesting inadequate resources and advanced sickness.

Left ventricular recovery in an African cohort of patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare and potentially life-threatening disease associated with pregnancy. There are limited data regarding the outcome of PPCM and its predictive factors in sub-Saharan African patients. We prospectively conducted a double-center (cardiology unit of the department of medicine, Regional Hospital Center of Tenkodogo, Burkina Faso and the department of cardiology of the National Referral Teaching Hospital of N´Djamena, Chad) cohort study in patients with PPCM. Patients were consecutively enrolled from January 2015 to December 2017. Outcomes of interest were left ventricular recovery and poor outcome at one year. Ninety-four patients enrolled with a median age of 28 years. At one-year follow-up, 40.5% of them recovered their left ventricular function. Cox multiple regression analysis revealed that higher left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), lower natremia and use of betablockers were baseline variables predicting this end-point. Of the entire study population, 26.60% exhibited the composite end-point of death (n=15) or remaining in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III-IV or LVEF < 35%. Predictors of poor outcome were lower LVEF at baseline, hyponatremia and use of digoxin. The current cohort study demonstrated that PPCM in sub-Saharan Africa is associated with limited myocardial recovery and significant rate of poor outcome at one year. Therefore, additional studies are needed to better address the disease.

Diagnosis of peripartum depression disorder: A state-of-the-art approach from the COST Action Riseup-PPD.

BACKGROUND: Peripartum depression (PPD) is a major depression disorder (MDD) episode with onset during pregnancy or within four weeks after childbirth, as defined in DSM-5. However, research suggests that PPD may be a distinct diagnosis. The goal of this study was to summarize the similarities and differences between PPD and MDD by synthesizing the current research on PPD diagnosis concerning different clinical features and give directions for improving diagnosis of PPD in clinical practice. METHODS: To lay the groundwork for this narrative review, several databases were searched using general search phrases on PPD and its components of clinical diagnosis. RESULTS: When compared to MDD, peripartum depression exhibits several distinct characteristics. PPD manifests with a variety of symptoms, i.e., more anxiety, psychomotor symptoms, obsessive thoughts, impaired concentration, fatigue and loss of energy, but less sad mood and suicidal ideation, compared to MDD. Although PPD and MDD prevalence rates are comparable, there are greater cross-cultural variances for PPD. Additionally, PPD has some distinct risk factors and mechanisms such as distinct ovarian tissue expression, premenstrual syndrome, unintended pregnancy, and obstetric complications. CONCLUSION: There is a need for more in-depth research comparing MDD with depression during pregnancy and the entire postpartum year. The diagnostic criteria should be modified, particularly with (i) addition of specific symptoms (i.e., anxiety), (ii) onset specifier extending to the first year following childbirth, (iii) and change the peripartum onset specifier to either "pregnancy onset" or "postpartum onset". Diagnostic criteria for PPD are further discussed.

Guyton perspective in managing peripartum cardiomyopathy patient with pulmonary edema: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a potentially life-threatening pregnancy-related condition characterized by left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure, typically occurring in the peripartum period. Individuals with a history of preeclampsia and hypertension are particularly prone to developing PPCM. Recent research suggests that the condition may be triggered by vascular dysfunction influenced by maternal hormones in the late stages of gestation. The onset of left heart failure results in decreased cardiac output, leading to insufficient perfusion, which in turn, contributes to pulmonary edema and exacerbates tissue hypoxia. This cardiovascular response activates the neurohumoral system, causing peripheral vasoconstriction and elevating both mean capillary filling pressure (MCFP) and central venous pressure (CVP). Early administration of furosemide reduces volume overload due to negative cumulative fluid balance gaining and vasodilation, which increases the velocity of intravascular refilling and causes interstitial edema to resolve. This will decrease interstitial fluid pressure, resulting in decreased mechanical compression to systemic capillary and systemic vein pressure, thus decreasing MCFP and CVP subsequently. Reduced CVP also contributes to increased venous return by decreasing the gradient pressure between MCFP and CVP, resulting in increased cardiac output (CO) and improved tissue oxygenation. CASE: A 33-year-old Asian woman, para 3 at full term pregnancy, admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after c-section and tubectomy due to shortness of breath and palpitation. Based on history taking, physical examination and echocardiography the patient fulfilled the criteria of PPCM which was also complicated by pulmonary edema. Despite impending respiratory failure, the patient rejected intubation and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and was given oxygen supplementation through nasal cannula. Furosemide was given rapidly continued by maintenance dose and CVP was monitored. Antihypertensive drug, anticoagulants, and bromocriptine were also administered. After achieving negative cumulative fluid balance the patient's symptoms resolved and was discharged one week later. CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between negative cumulative fluid balance and reduced central venous pressure after early furosemide therapy. Suspicion for PPCM should not be lowered in the presence of preeclampsia, it could delay appropriate treatment and increase the mortality.

Prevalence and Obstetric Management Changes During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Peripartum SARS-CoV-2-Positive Women - an Analysis of the CRONOS Registry Data.

The analysis of CRONOS data for this article presents the infection prevalence among parturients and subsequent changes in obstetric management over time in Germany. 2,184 women with peripartum SARS-CoV-2 infection (<14d before birth) were included. Monthly period prevalence was calculated using the number of affected women on the CRONOS registry relative to total monthly births in each hospital from March 2020 to May 2022 and compared to RKI data. Trends related to changes in obstetric management were calculated based on severity of illness. By June 2021, the obstetric population shows a discretely higher infection prevalence compared to the general population, falling below the RKI reported prevalence by October 2021. The overall rate of iatrogenic deliveries remains unchanged over time (p-value for trend=0.779). During wave 1 to 4, deliveries due to SARS-CoV-2 infection rose among moderately to severely ill women (p-value for trend 0.0000) and was increased compared to moderately ill women (p=0.001). We showed that comprehensive screening provides timely information on infection prevalence. Recruitment fatigue caused by higher clinician workload due to increased admissions and more cases with severe illness probably caused reduced prevalence reporting. Changes in obstetric management were related to COVID-19 symptom severity. A comprehensive national perinatal registry is needed to examine other areas of perinatal care in Germany.

Effect of the peripartum depressive symptoms on the Internet use disorder of their offspring in late childhood: retrospective longitudinal study.

Internet use disorder (IUD) is an emerging social and mental health concern. This study aimed to analyze the relative risk of IUD in late childhood among children whose mothers experienced peripartum depressive symptoms. This study included 762 participants (397 boys and 365 girls) and was conducted in 2017 (aged 9) and 2019 (aged 11). We analyzed the adjusted relative risk of being at high risk for IUD based on whether the mother experienced depressive symptoms during pregnancy or one month after delivery. We also considered the persistence of depressed mood for 4 months after delivery and the severity of peripartum depressive symptoms. From 2017, 20.7% of boys and 14.0% of girls were at high risk of developing IUD. Compared to the non-peripartum depressive group, girls whose mothers experienced peripartum depressive symptoms and those that persisted for 4 months were 1.084 and 1.124 times more likely to be at high risk of IUD (95% confidence interval = 1.005-1.170 and 1.013-1.248), respectively. There were no statistically significant differences among boys. Peripartum depressed mood could be one of risk factors of IUD. IUD needs to be monitored in children whose mothers experienced peripartum depressive symptoms.