Infant Sex-Specific Associations between Prenatal Food Insecurity and Low Birthweight: A Multistate Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Low birthweight is associated with increased risk of neonatal mortality and adverse outcomes among survivors. As maternal sociodemographic factors do not explain all of the risk in low birthweight, exploring exposures occurring during critical periods, such as maternal food insecurity, should be considered from a life course perspective. OBJECTIVES: To explore the association between prenatal food insecurity and low birthweight, as well as whether or not there may be a sex-specific response using a multistate survey. METHODS: Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data of live births from 11 states during 2009-2017 were used, restricting to women with a singleton birth. Food insecurity was determined by a single question in PRAMS, and low birthweight was defined as a birth <2500 g. Multivariable logistic regression was used, stratified by infant sex and adjusted for maternal sociodemographic and prepregnancy health characteristics. RESULTS: There were n = 50,915 women from 2009 to 2017, with 9.1% experiencing food insecurity. Unadjusted results revealed that food-insecure mothers had an increased odds ratio of delivering a low-birthweight baby (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.25, 1.53). Adjustment for covariates appeared to explain the association among male infants, whereas magnitudes remained greater among female infants (adjusted OR: 1.13; 95% CI: 0.94, 1.35). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest a sex-specific response to prenatal food insecurity, particularly among female offspring. Future studies are warranted with more precise measures of food insecurity and to understand the difference by infant sex.

The association between interpregnancy interval and severe maternal morbidities using revised national birth certificate data: A probabilistic bias analysis.

BACKGROUND: Severe maternal morbidity continues to be on the rise in the US. Short birth spacing is a modifiable risk factor associated with maternal morbidity, yet few studies have examined this association, possibly due to few available data sources to examine these rare events. OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between interpregnancy interval (IPI) and severe maternal morbidity using near-national birth certificate data and account for known under-reporting using probabilistic bias analysis. METHODS: We used revised 2014-2017 birth certificate data, restricting to resident women with a non-first-born singleton birth. We examined the following: (a) maternal blood transfusion, (b) admission to intensive care unit (ICU), (c) uterine rupture (among women with a prior caesarean delivery) and (d) third- or fourth-degree perineal laceration (among vaginal deliveries) by IPI categories (<6, 6-11, 12-17, 18-23, 24-59 and 60+ months). Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using log-binomial regression, adjusting for select maternal characteristics. Probabilistic bias analyses were performed. RESULTS: Compared with IPI 18 to 23 months, adjusted models revealed that the risk of maternal transfusion followed a U-shaped curve with IPI, while risk of ICU admission and perineal laceration increased with longer IPI. Risk of uterine rupture was highest among IPI <6 months. With the exception of maternal transfusion, these findings persisted regardless of the extent or type of misclassification examined in bias analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Associations between IPI and maternal morbidity varied by outcome, even after adjusting for misclassification of SMM. Differences across maternal health outcomes should be considered when counselling and making recommendations regarding optimal birth spacing.

Examining interpregnancy intervals and maternal and perinatal health outcomes using U.S. vital records: Important considerations for analysis and interpretation.

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies use birth certificate data to examine the association between interpregnancy interval (IPI) and maternal and perinatal health outcomes. Substantive changes from the latest birth certificate revision have implications for examining this relationship. METHODS: We provide an overview of the National Vital Statistics System and recent changes to the national birth certificate data file, which have implications for assessing IPI and perinatal health outcomes. We describe the calculation of IPI using birth certificate information and related measurement issues. Missing IPI values by maternal age, race and education using 2016 birth certificate data were also compared. Finally, we review and summarise data quality studies of select covariate and outcome variables (sociodemographic, maternal health and health behaviours, and infant health) conducted after the most recent 2003 birth certificate revision. RESULTS: Substantive changes to data collection, dissemination and quality have occurred since the 2003 revision. These changes impact IPI measurement, trends and associations with perinatal health outcomes. Missing values of IPI were highest for older ages, lower education and non-Hispanic black women. Minimal differences were found when comparing IPI using different gestational age measures. Recent data quality studies pointed to substantial variation in data quality by item and across states. CONCLUSION: Future studies examining the association of IPI with maternal and perinatal data using vital records should consider these aspects of the data in their research plan, sensitivity analyses and interpretation of findings.

Beyond birth outcomes: Interpregnancy interval and injury-related infant mortality.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have examined the association between IPI and birth outcomes, but few have explored the association between interpregnancy interval (IPI) and postnatal outcomes. OBJECTIVE: We examined the association between IPI and injury-related infant mortality, a leading cause of postneonatal mortality. METHODS: We used 2011-2015 US period-linked birth-infant death vital statistics data to generate a multiyear birth cohort of non-first-born singleton births (N = 9 782 029). IPI was defined as the number of months between a live birth and the start of the pregnancy leading to the next live birth. Causes of death in the first year of life were identified using ICD-10 codes. Hazard ratios (HR) for IPI categories were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for birth order, county poverty level, and maternal characteristics (marital status, race/ethnicity, education, age at previous birth). RESULTS: After adjustment, overall infant mortality (48.1 per 10 000 births) was higher for short and long IPIs compared with IPI 18-23 months (reference): <6, aHR 1.61, 95% CI 1.54, 1.68; 6-11, aHR 1.22, 95% CI 1.17, 1.26; and 60+ months, aHR 1.12, 95% CI 1.08, 1.16. In comparison, the risk of injury-related infant mortality (4.4 per 10 000 births) decreased with longer IPIs: <6, aHR 1.77, 95% CI 1.55, 2.01; 6-11, aHR 1.41, 95% CI 1.25, 1.59; 12-17, aHR 1.25, 95% CI 1.10, 1.41; 24-59, aHR 0.78, 95% CI 0.69, 0.87; and 60+ months, aHR 0.55, 95% CI 0.48, 0.62. CONCLUSION: Unlike overall infant mortality, injury-related infant mortality decreased with IPI length. While injury-related deaths are rare, these patterns suggest that the timing between births may be a marker of risk for fatal infant injuries. The first year postpartum may be an ideal time for the delivery of evidence-based injury prevention programmes as well as family planning services.

No 376 - Recours au sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale.

OBJECTIF: Fournir des directives sur l'administration prénatale de sulfate de magnésium visant à offrir une neuroprotection aux enfants prématurés. OPTIONS: L'administration prénatale de sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale devrait être envisagée chez les femmes enceintes de 33+6 semaines ou moins étant sur le point d'accoucher prématurément; l'accouchement prématuré imminent est défini par une forte probabilité d'accouchement en raison d'un travail actif accompagné d'une dilatation du col d'au moins 4 cm, avec ou sans rupture prématurée des membranes avant le travail, ou comme un accouchement prématuré planifié pour des indications maternelles ou fœtales. Outre le sulfate de magnésium, aucun autre agent offrant une neuroprotection fœtale n'est connu. RéSULTATS: Les issues évaluées sont l'incidence de la paralysie cérébrale (PC) et du décès néonatal. DONNéES PROBANTES: La littérature publiée a été récupérée au moyen de recherches menées dans PubMed ou Medline, CINAHL et la Bibliothèque Cochrane en décembre 2017 à l'aide d'une terminologie et de mots-clés contrôlés (« magnesium sulphate ¼, « cerebral palsy ¼, « preterm birth ¼). Les résultats retenus provenaient de revues systématiques, d'essais cliniques randomisés et d'autres études observationnelles pertinentes. Aucune restriction de date ou de langue n'a été employée. Les recherches ont été refaites régulièrement, et les résultats ont été incorporés à la directive clinique jusqu'en décembre 2017. Nous avons également tenu compte de la littérature grise (non publiée) trouvée sur les sites Web d'organismes d'évaluation des technologies de la santé et d'autres organismes liés aux technologies de la santé, dans des collections de directives cliniques et dans des registres d'essais cliniques, et obtenue auprès d'associations nationales et internationales de médecins spécialistes. VALEURS: La qualité des données probantes a été évaluée au moyen des critères énoncés dans le rapport du Groupe d'étude canadien sur les soins de santé préventifs (tableau 1). AVANTAGES, DéSAVANTAGES ET COûTS: L'administration prénatale de sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale réduit le risque de « décès ou PC ¼ (risque relatif [RR] : 0,85; intervalle de confiance [IC] à 95 % : 0,74-0,98; 4 essais; 4 446 enfants), de « décès ou PC modérée ou grave ¼ (RR : 0,85; IC à 95 % : 0,73-0,99; 3 essais; 4 250 enfants), de « PC de quelque gravité que ce soit ¼ (RR : 0,71; IC à 95 % : 0,55-0,91; 4 essais; 4 446 enfants), de « PC modérée ou grave ¼ (RR : 0,60; IC à 95 % : 0,43-0,84; 3 essais; 4 250 enfants) et de « dysfonctionnement important de la motricité globale ¼ (incapacité à marcher sans aide) à l'âge de deux ans [RR : 0,60; IC à 95 % : 0,43-0,83; 3 essais; 4 387 femmes). Les conclusions allaient dans le même sens d'une étude et d'une méta-analyse à l'autre. Aucune augmentation significative des coûts liés aux soins de santé n'est attendue, puisque les femmes admissibles à l'administration prénatale de sulfate de magnésium seront celles dont l'accouchement prématuré est imminent. VALIDATION: Une directive clinique australienne sur l'administration prénatale de sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale a été publiée en mars 2010 par l'Antenatal Magnesium Sulphate for Neuroprotection Guideline Development Panel. On y recommande la même posologie que dans la présente directive, mais seulement chez les femmes enceintes de moins de 30 semaines, pour deux raisons : premièrement, aucun sous-groupe d'âge gestationnel n'a semblé bénéficier d'un avantage clair; et deuxièmement, en raison de cette incertitude, le comité a été d'avis qu'il valait mieux limiter les répercussions que pouvait avoir leur directive clinique sur la répartition des ressources. En mars 2010, l'American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists a publié une opinion de comité sur l'administration de sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale, dans laquelle on peut lire : « Les données probantes disponibles semblent indiquer que l'administration de sulfate de magnésium avant un accouchement prématuré anticipé réduit le risque de paralysie cérébrale chez les enfants survivants. ¼ On n'y mentionne aucun seuil d'âge gestationnel, mais on recommande aux médecins de rédiger des lignes directrices sur les critères d'inclusions, la posologie, la tocolyse concomitante et la surveillance à exercer, selon les résultats d'un essai de grande envergure. De même, en 2015, l'Organisation mondiale de la Santé a également indiqué que l'administration de sulfate de magnésium aux fins de neuroprotection fœtale faisait partie des interventions recommandées pour améliorer les issues des grossesses prenant fin prématurément, mais a précisé que d'autres études portant sur la posologie et les traitements répétés étaient nécessaires. COMMANDITAIRE: Les Instituts de recherche en santé du Canada (IRSC). DéCLARATION SOMMAIRE: RECOMMANDATIONS.

No. 376-Magnesium Sulphate for Fetal Neuroprotection.

OBJECTIVE: The objective is to provide guidelines for the use of antenatal magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection of the preterm infant. OPTIONS: Antenatal magnesium sulphate administration should be considered for fetal neuroprotection when women present at ≤33 + 6 weeks with imminent preterm birth, defined as a high likelihood of birth because of active labour with cervical dilatation ≥4 cm, with or without preterm pre-labour rupture of membranes, and/or planned preterm birth for fetal or maternal indications. There are no other known fetal neuroprotective agents. OUTCOMES: The outcomes measured are the incidence of cerebral palsy (CP) and neonatal death. EVIDENCE: Published literature was retrieved through searches of PubMed or Medline, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library in December 2017, using appropriate controlled vocabulary and key words (magnesium sulphate, cerebral palsy, preterm birth). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and relevant observational studies. There were no date or language restrictions. Searches were updated on a regular basis and incorporated in the guideline to December 2017. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and health technology assessment-related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies. VALUES: The quality of evidence was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1). BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS: Antenatal magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection reduces the risk of "death or CP" (relative risk [RR] 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74-0.98; 4 trials, 4446 infants), "death or moderate-severe CP" (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.73-0.99; 3 trials, 4250 infants), "any CP" (RR 0.71; 95% CI 0.55-0.91; 4, trials, 4446 infants), "moderate-to-severe CP" (RR 0.60; 95% CI 0.43-0.84; 3 trials, 4250 infants), and "substantial gross motor dysfunction" (inability to walk without assistance) (RR 0.60; 95% CI 0.43-0.83; 3 trials, 4287 women) at 2 years of age. Results were consistent between trials and across the meta-analyses. There is no anticipated significant increase in health care-related costs because women eligible to receive antenatal magnesium sulphate will be judged to have imminent preterm birth. VALIDATION: Australian National Clinical Practice Guidelines were published in March 2010 by the Antenatal Magnesium Sulphate for Neuroprotection Guideline Development Panel. Antenatal magnesium sulphate was recommended for fetal neuroprotection in the same dosage as recommended in these guidelines. However, magnesium sulphate was recommended only at <30 weeks gestation, based on 2 considerations. First, no single gestational age subgroup was considered to show a clear benefit. Second, in the face of uncertainty, the committee felt it was prudent to limit the impact of their clinical practice guidelines on resource allocation. In March 2010, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued a Committee Opinion on magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection. It stated that "the available evidence suggests that magnesium sulfate given before anticipated early preterm birth reduces the risk of cerebral palsy in surviving infants." No official opinion was given on a gestational age cut-off, but it was recommended that physicians develop specific guidelines around the issues of inclusion criteria, dosage, concurrent tocolysis, and monitoring in accordance with 1 of the larger trials. Similarly, the World Health Organization also strongly recommends use of magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection in its 2015 recommendations on interventions to improve preterm birth outcomes but cites further researching on dosing regimen and re-treatment. SPONSORS: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). SUMMARY STATEMENT: RECOMMENDATIONS.

Timing of delivery in a high-risk obstetric population: a clinical prediction model.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of antenatal corticosteroid treatment for women with threatened preterm birth depends on timely administration within 7 days before delivery. We modelled the probability of delivery within 7 days of admission to hospital among women presenting with threatened preterm birth, using routinely collected clinical characteristics. METHODS: Data from the Canadian Perinatal Network (CPN) were used, 2005-11, including women admitted to hospital with preterm labour, preterm pre-labour rupture of membranes, short cervix without contractions, or dilated cervix or prolapsed membranes without contractions at preterm gestation. Women with fetal anomaly, intrauterine fetal demise, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and quadruplets were excluded. Logistic regression was undertaken to create a predictive model that was assessed for its calibration capacity, stratification ability, and classification accuracy (ROC curve). RESULTS: We included 3012 women admitted at 24-28 weeks gestation, or readmitted at up to 34 weeks gestation, to 16 tertiary-care CPN hospitals. Of these, 1473 (48.9%) delivered within 7 days of admission. Significant predictors of early delivery included maternal age, parity, gestational age at admission, smoking, preterm labour, prolapsed membranes, preterm pre-labour rupture of membranes, and antepartum haemorrhage. The area under the ROC curve was 0.724 (95% CI 0.706-0.742). CONCLUSION: We propose a useful tool to improve prediction of delivery within 7 days after admission among women with threatened preterm birth. This information is important for optimal corticosteroid treatment.

Magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection: benefits and challenges of a systematic knowledge translation project in Canada.

BACKGROUND: Administration of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) to women with imminent preterm birth at <34 weeks is an evidence-based antenatal neuroprotective strategy to prevent cerebral palsy. Although a Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) national guideline with practice recommendations based on relevant clinical evidence exists, ongoing controversies about aspects of this treatment remain. Given this, we anticipated managed knowledge translation (KT) would be needed to facilitate uptake of the guidelines into practice. As part of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)-funded MAG-CP (MAGnesium sulphate to prevent Cerebral Palsy) project, we aimed to compare three KT methods designed to impact both individual health care providers and the organizational systems in which they work. METHODS: The KT methods undertaken were an interactive online e-learning module available to all SOGC members, and at MAG-CP participating sites, on-site educational rounds and focus group discussions, and circulation of an anonymous 'Barriers and Facilitators' survey for the systematic identification of facilitators and barriers for uptake of practice change. We compared these strategies according to: (i) breadth of respondents reached; (ii) rates and richness of identified barriers, facilitators, and knowledge needed; and (iii) cost. RESULTS: No individual KT method was superior to the others by all criteria, and in combination, they provided richer information than any individual method. The e-learning module reached the most diverse audience of health care providers, the site visits provided opportunity for iterative dialogue, and the survey was the least expensive. Although the site visits provided the most detailed information around individual and organizational barriers, the 'Barriers and Facilitators' survey provided more detail regarding social-level barriers. The facilitators identified varied by KT method. The type of knowledge needed was further defined by the e-learning module and surveys. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that a multifaceted approach to KT is optimal for translating national obstetric guidelines into clinical practice. As audit and feedback are essential parts of the process by which evidence to practice gaps are closed, MAG-CP is continuing the iterative KT process described in this paper concurrent with tracking of MgSO4 use for fetal neuroprotection and maternal and child outcomes until September 2015; results are anticipated in 2016.

Magnesium Sulphate for Eclampsia and Fetal Neuroprotection: A Comparative Analysis of Protocols Across Canadian Tertiary Perinatal Centres.

BACKGROUND: Magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) has been recommended for fetal neuroprotection to prevent cerebral palsy, with national societies adopting new guidelines for its use. A knowledge translation project to implement Canadian guidelines is ongoing. Discussion about MgSO4 for fetal neuroprotection could not occur distinct from MgSO4 for eclampsia prophylaxis and treatment. Thus, in order to explore standardization of MgSO4 use in Canada, we sought to compare local protocols for eclampsia and fetal neuroprotection across tertiary perinatal centres. METHODS: Twenty-five Canadian tertiary perinatal centres were asked to submit their protocols for use of MgSO4 for eclampsia prophylaxis/treatment and fetal neuroprotection. Information abstracted included date of protocol, definitions of indications for treatment, details of MgSO4 administration, maternal and fetal monitoring, antidote for toxicity, and abnormal signs requiring physician attention. Descriptive analyses were used to compare site protocols with known definitions of preeclampsia. Data from the Canadian Perinatal Network (CPN) were used to verify what was done in clinical practice. RESULTS: Twenty-two of the 25 centres submitted protocols for eclampsia prevention/treatment. Eleven of these provided a definition of preeclampsia that warranted treatment; five of the 22 advised treatment of severe preeclampsia only. Criteria for treatment and monitoring procedures varied across centres. Sixteen of the 22 sites with protocols had data from the CPN. Of 635 women with pre-eclampsia, 422 (66.5%) received MgSO4. Twenty of 25 centres provided protocols for fetal neuroprotection. Definitions of indications were consistent across sites, except for gestational age cut-off. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that local protocols are often inconsistent with published evidence. While this may be related to local institutional practices, relevant processes must be put in place to maximize uniformity of practice and improve patient care.

Contexte : L'utilisation de sulfate de magnésium (MgSO4) a été recommandée à des fins de neuroprotection fœtale dans le but de prévenir l'infirmité motrice cérébrale; des sociétés nationales adoptent d'ailleurs de nouvelles lignes directrices quant à son utilisation. Un projet de transfert des connaissances visant la mise en œuvre des lignes directrices canadiennes est en cours. Le rôle du MgSO4 en ce qui concerne la neuroprotection fœtale ne peut être abordé sans que l'on mentionne son utilisation dans le cadre de la prophylaxie et de la prise en charge de l'éclampsie. Ainsi, pour explorer la standardisation de l'utilisation de MgSO4 au Canada, nous avons cherché à comparer les protocoles locaux qui en régissent l'utilisation en matière d'éclampsie et de neuroprotection fœtale dans les centres périnataux tertiaires. Méthodes : Nous avons demandé à 25 centres périnataux tertiaires canadiens de nous soumettre leurs protocoles quant à l'utilisation du MgSO4 aux fins de la neuroprotection fœtale et de la prophylaxie / prise en charge de l'éclampsie. Les renseignements que nous avons tirés de ces protocoles comprenaient la date du protocole, les définitions des indications de traitement, les détails de l'administration du MgSO4, le monitorage maternel et fœtal, l'antidote pour contrer la toxicité et les symptômes anormaux nécessitant l'offre de soins médicaux. Des analyses descriptives ont été utilisées pour comparer les protocoles de ces centres aux définitions connues de la prééclampsie. Des données issues du Réseau périnatal canadien (RPC) ont été utilisées pour vérifier ce qui se faisait dans le cadre de la pratique clinique. Résultats : Vingt-deux des 25 centres nous ont soumis leurs protocoles de prévention / prise en charge de l'éclampsie. Onze de ces centres nous ont fourni une définition de ce qui était considéré comme une prééclampsie justifiant une prise en charge; cinq des 22 centres ne préconisaient que la prise en charge de la prééclampsie grave. Les critères des interventions de traitement et de monitorage variaient d'un centre à l'autre. Seize des 22 sites comptant des protocoles présentaient des données issues du RPC. Au sein d'un groupe de 635 femmes connaissant une prééclampsie, 422 (66,5 %) ont reçu du MgSO4. Vingt des 25 centres nous ont fourni leurs protocoles de neuroprotection fœtale. Les définitions des indications étaient uniformes d'un site à l'autre, sauf en ce qui concerne le seuil en matière d'âge gestationnel. Conclusion : Cette étude avance que les protocoles locaux ne concordent souvent pas avec les données probantes publiées. Bien que cela puisse être attribuable aux pratiques institutionnelles locales, des processus pertinents doivent être mis en place pour maximiser l'uniformité de la pratique et améliorer les soins offerts aux patientes.

Maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies delivered at 23 weeks' gestation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies delivered at 23+0 to 23+6 weeks' gestation. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included women in the Canadian Perinatal Network who were admitted to one of 16 Canadian tertiary perinatal units between August 1, 2005, and March 31, 2011, and who delivered at 23+0 to 23+6 weeks' gestation. Women were included in the network if they were admitted with spontaneous preterm labour with contractions, a short cervix without contractions, prolapsing membranes with membranes at or beyond the external os or a dilated cervix, preterm premature rupture of membranes, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational hypertension, or antepartum hemorrhage. Maternal outcomes included Caesarean section, placental abruption, and serious complication. Perinatal outcomes were mortality and serious morbidity. RESULTS: A total of 248 women and 287 infants were included in the study. The rate of Caesarean section was 10.5% (26/248) and 40.3% of women (100/248) had a serious complication, the most common being chorioamnionitis (38.6%), followed by blood transfusion (4.5%). Of infants with known outcomes, perinatal mortality was 89.9% (223/248) (stillbirth 23.3% [67/287] and neonatal death 62.9% [156/248]). Of live born neonates with known outcomes (n = 181), 38.1% (69/181) were admitted to NICU. Of those admitted to NICU, neonatal death occurred in 63.8% (44/69). Among survivors at discharge, the rate of severe brain injury was 44.0% (11/25), of retinopathy of prematurity 58.3% (14/24), and of any serious neonatal morbidity 100% (25/25). Two subgroup analyses were performed: in one, antepartum stillbirths were excluded, and in the other only centres that indicated they offered fetal monitoring at 23 weeks' gestation were included and antepartum stillbirths were excluded. In each of these, perinatal outcomes similar to the overall group were found. CONCLUSION: Pregnant women delivering at 23 weeks' gestation are at risk of morbidity. Their infants have high rates of serious morbidity and mortality. Further research is needed to identify strategies and forms of management that not only increase perinatal survival but also reduce morbidities in these extremely low gestational age infants and reduce maternal morbidity.

Objectif : Évaluer les issues maternelles et périnatales des grossesses donnant lieu à un accouchement entre 23+0 et 23+6 semaines de gestation. Méthodes : Cette étude de cohorte prospective portait sur des femmes du Réseau périnatal canadien qui ont été admises à l'une des 16 unités périnatales tertiaires canadiennes participantes entre le 1er août 2005 et le 31 mars 2011, et qui ont accouché entre 23+0 et 23+6 semaines de gestation. Les femmes ont été admises dans le réseau si elles avaient été hospitalisées en raison d'un travail préterme spontané (s'accompagnant de contractions), d'un col court (sans contractions), d'un prolapsus des membranes (s'accompagnant d'une dilatation du col ou dans le cadre duquel les membranes se situaient au niveau de l'orifice externe ou faisaient saillie au-delà de ce dernier), d'une rupture prématurée des membranes préterme, d'un retard de croissance intra-utérin, d'une hypertension gestationnelle ou d'une hémorragie antepartum. Parmi les issues maternelles, on trouvait la césarienne, le décollement placentaire et la manifestation d'une complication grave. La morbidité grave et la mortalité constituaient les issues périnatales. Résultats : En tout, 248 femmes et 287 nouveau-nés ont été inclus dans l'étude. Le taux de césarienne était de 10,5 % (26/248) et 40,3 % des femmes (100/248) ont connu une complication grave (la plus courante étant la chorioamnionite [38,6 %], suivie de la transfusion sanguine [4,5 %]). Parmi les nouveau-nés pour lesquels les issues étaient connues, le taux de mortalité périnatale était de 89,9 % (223/248) (taux de mortinaissance : 23,3 % [67/287] et taux de décès néonatal : 62,9 % [156/248]). Une admission à l'UNSI a été requise pour 38,1 % (69/181) des enfants nés vivants pour lesquels les issues étaient connues (n = 181). Parmi ces enfants ayant dû être admis à l'UNSI, un décès néonatal a été constaté dans 63,8 % (44/69) des cas. Chez les survivants (au moment de l'obtention de leur congé de l'UNSI), le taux de lésion cérébrale grave était de 44,0 % (11/25), le taux de rétinopathie des prématurés était de 58,3 % (14/24) et le taux de quelque morbidité néonatale grave que ce soit était de 100 % (25/25). Deux analyses de sous-groupe ont été menées : dans le cadre de l'une d'entre elles, les mortinaissances pendant la période antepartum ont été exclues; dans le cadre de l'autre, seuls les centres ayant indiqué qu'ils offraient le monitorage fœtal à 23 semaines de gestation ont été inclus et les mortinaissances pendant la période antepartum ont également été exclues. Des issues périnatales semblables à celles du groupe général ont été constatées dans chacune de ces analyses. Conclusion : Les femmes enceintes qui accouchent à 23 semaines de gestation sont exposées à des risques de morbidité. Leurs nouveau-nés présentent des taux élevés de morbidité grave et de mortalité. La poursuite de la recherche s'avère requise pour permettre l'identification de stratégies et de formes de prise en charge qui entraînent non seulement une amélioration du taux de survie périnatale, mais également une baisse des taux de morbidité que connaissent ces nouveau-nés d'âge gestationnel extrêmement faible et les mères.

Urinary dipstick proteinuria testing: does automated strip analysis offer an advantage over visual testing?

OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnostic test properties of automated and visually read urine dipstick screening for detection of a random protein:creatinine ratio (PrCr) ≥ 30 mg/mmol. METHODS: Urine samples were collected prospectively from 160 women attending high-risk maternity clinics at a tertiary care facility. Samples were divided into two aliquots; one aliquot was tested using two different urine test strips, one read visually and one by an automated reader. A second aliquot of the same urine was analyzed for urinary protein and creatinine. Performance of visual and automated dipstick results (proteinuria ≥ 1+) were compared for detection of PrCr ≥ 30 mg/mmol using non-dilute urine samples (urinary creatinine ≥ 3 mmol/L). RESULTS: Both urine test strips showed low sensitivity (visual 56.0% and automated 53.8%). Positive likelihood ratios were 15.0 for visual dipstick testing (95% CI 5.9 to 37.9) and 24.6 for automated (95% CI 7.6 to 79.6). Negative likelihood ratios were 0.46 for visual dipstick testing (95% CI 0.29 to 0.71) and 0.47 for automated (95% CI 0.31 to 0.72). CONCLUSION: Automated dipstick testing was not superior to visual testing for detection of proteinuria in pregnant women in a primarily outpatient setting. Sensitivity may depend on the test strips and/or analyzer used.

Objectif : Comparer les propriétés diagnostiques du dépistage automatisé par bandelette réactive urinaire et du dépistage visuel par bandelette réactive urinaire pour ce qui est de la détection d'un rapport protéines/créatinine (PrCr) aléatoire ≥ 30 mg/mmol. Méthodes : Des échantillons d'urine ont été prélevés de façon prospective chez 160 femmes fréquentant des cliniques de consultations obstétricales pour patientes exposées à des risques élevés au sein d'un établissement de soins tertiaires. Les prélèvements ont été répartis en deux aliquots : un aliquot a été testé au moyen de deux bandelettes réactives urinaires différentes (une faisant l'objet d'une lecture visuelle et l'autre faisant l'objet d'une lecture automatisée). Un deuxième aliquot utilisant la même urine a été analysé pour ce qui est des taux urinaires de protéines et de créatinine. Le rendement des résultats de la lecture visuelle et de la lecture automatisée (protéinurie ≥ 1+) a été comparé pour ce qui est de la détection d'un PrCr ≥ 30 mg/mmol au moyen de prélèvements d'urine non diluée (taux urinaire de créatinine ≥ 3 mmol/l). Résultats : Les deux bandelettes réactives urinaires ont présenté une faible sensibilité (lecture visuelle : 56,0 % et lecture automatisée : 53,8 %). Les rapports de vraisemblance positifs ont été de 15,0 pour le dépistage visuel par bandelette réactive urinaire (IC à 95 %, 5,9 - 37,9) et de 24,6 pour le dépistage automatisé par bandelette réactive urinaire (IC à 95 %, 7,6 - 79,6). Les rapports de vraisemblance négatifs ont été de 0,46 pour le dépistage visuel par bandelette réactive urinaire (IC à 95 %, 0,29 - 0,71) et de 0,47 pour le dépistage automatisé par bandelette réactive urinaire (IC à 95 %, 0,31 - 0,72). Conclusion : Le dépistage automatisé par bandelette réactive urinaire ne s'est pas révélé supérieur au dépistage visuel pour ce qui est de la détection de la protéinurie chez des femmes enceintes dans un contexte de services principalement externes. La sensibilité pourrait dépendre des bandelettes réactives et/ou de l'analyseur utilisés.

Effect of magnesium sulphate on fetal heart rate parameters: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the potential effects of intravenous magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) administration on antepartum and intrapartum fetal heart rate (FHR) parameters measured by cardiotocography (CTG) or electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). METHODS: We undertook a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case series. Studies were reviewed independently by two reviewers and qualitatively analyzed with regard to CTG/EFM parameters (baseline FHR, variability and acceleration-deceleration patterns), types of participants, interventions offered, and outcomes reported. RESULTS: Of 18 included studies, two were RCTs (72 women); 12 were prospective observational studies (269 women), 10 of which were of a pre- and post-intervention design; one was a prospective cohort study (36 women) and three were retrospective cohort studies (555 women). Lower baseline FHR was associated with MgSO4 exposure in seven of nine relevant studies. Decreased FHR variability was reported in nine of 12 relevant studies. Reductions in reactivity or acceleration pattern were seen in four of six relevant studies without an increase in decelerative patterns. All changes were small and not associated with adverse clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: Maternal administration of MgSO4 for eclampsia prophylaxis/treatment, tocolysis or fetal neuroprotection appears to have a small negative effect on FHR, variability, and accelerative pattern, but is not sufficient clinically to warrant medical intervention.

Objectif : Examiner les effets potentiels de l'administration de sulfate de magnésium (MgSO4) par voie intraveineuse sur les paramètres de la fréquence cardiaque fœtale (FCF) antepartum et intrapartum mesurés par cardiotocographie (CTG) ou monitorage fœtal électronique (MFÉ). Méthodes : Nous avons mené une analyse systématique ayant porté sur des essais comparatifs randomisés, des études observationnelles et des séries de cas. Ces études ont été analysées de façon indépendante par deux arbitres scientifiques; de plus, elles ont fait l'objet d'une analyse qualitative en fonction des paramètres de la CTG / du MFÉ (FCF initiale, variabilité et profils d'accélération-décélération), des types de participantes, des interventions offertes et des issues signalées. Résultats : Parmi les 18 études admises à l'analyse systématique, on comptait deux ECR (72 femmes); 12 études observationnelles prospectives (269 femmes), dont 10 comptaient un devis préintervention et postintervention; une étude de cohorte prospective (36 femmes); et trois études de cohorte rétrospectives (555 femmes). Une FCF initiale moindre a été associée à l'exposition au MgSO4 dans le cadre de sept des neuf études pertinentes. Une variabilité moindre de la FCF a été signalée dans neuf des 12 études pertinentes. Des baisses des profils de réactivité ou d'accélération ont été constatées dans quatre des six études pertinentes, sans hausse des profils de décélération. Toutes les modifications ont été faibles et n'ont pas été associées à des issues cliniques indésirables. Conclusion : Bien que l'administration de MgSO4 à la mère à des fins de prophylaxie / prise en charge de l'éclampsie, de tocolyse ou de neuroprotection fœtale semble exercer un faible effet négatif sur la FCF, la variabilité et le profil d'accélération, cet effet n'est pas suffisant sur le plan clinique pour justifier la tenue d'une intervention médicale.

The Association Between Prenatal Food Insecurity and Breastfeeding Initiation and Exclusive Breastfeeding Duration: A Longitudinal Study Using Oregon PRAMS and PRAMS-2, 2008-2015.

Background: In the United States, 11.1% of households experience food insecurity; however, pregnant women are disproportionately affected. Maternal food insecurity may affect infant feeding practices, for example, through being a source of chronic stress that may alter the decision to initiate and continue breastfeeding. Thus, we sought to determine whether prenatal food insecurity was associated with breastfeeding (versus not) and exclusive breastfeeding duration among Oregon women. Method: The Oregon Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data of live births from 2008 to 2015 and the Oregon PRAMS-2 follow-up survey were used (n = 3,624) in this study. Associations with breastfeeding initiation and duration were modeled with multivariable logistic regression and accelerated failure time (AFT), respectively. Models were adjusted for maternal sociodemographic and pre-pregnancy health characteristics. Results: Nearly 10% of women experienced prenatal food insecurity. For breastfeeding initiation, unadjusted models suggested non-significant decreased odds (odds ratio (OR) 0.88 [confidence intervals (CI): 0.39, 1.99]), whereas adjusted models revealed a non-significant increased odds (OR 1.41 [CI: 0.58, 3.47]). Unadjusted AFT models suggested that food-insecure mothers had a non-significant decrease in exclusive breastfeeding duration (OR 0.76 [CI: 0.50, 1.17]), but adjustment for covariates attenuated results (OR 0.89 [CI: 0.57, 1.39]). Conclusions: Findings suggest minimal differences in breastfeeding practices when exploring food security status in the prenatal period, though the persistence of food insecurity may affect exclusive breastfeeding duration. Lower breastfeeding initiation may be due to other explanatory factors correlated with food insecurity and breastfeeding, such as education and marital status.

Unexpected random urinary protein:creatinine ratio results-limitations of the pyrocatechol violet-dye method.

BACKGROUND: For clinicians, it is important to rely on accurate laboratory results for patient care and optimal use of health care resources. We sought to explore our observations that urine protein:creatinine ratios (PrCr) ≥30 mg/mmol are seen not infrequently associated with normal pregnancy outcome. METHODS: Urine samples were collected prospectively from 160 pregnant women attending high-risk maternity clinics at a tertiary care facility. Urinary protein was measured using a pyrocatechol violet assay and urinary creatinine by an enzymatic method on Vitros analysers. Maternal/perinatal outcomes were abstracted from hospital records. RESULTS: 91/233 (39.1%) samples had a PrCr ≥30 mg/mmol, especially when urinary creatinine concentration was <3 mM (94.1%) vs. ≥3 mM (16.4%) (p < 0.001). When using the last sample before delivery, 47/160 (29.4%) had a PrCr ≥30 mg/mmol in diluted urine vs. only 17/160 (15.4%) in more concentrated urine (p < 0.001); PrCr positive results were also more frequent among the 32 (20.0%) women with known normal pregnancy outcome (90.9% vs. 0) (p < 0.001). Using the same analyser, 0.12 g/L urinary protein was 'detected' in deionised water. Re-analysis of data from two cohorts revealed substantially less inflation of PrCr in dilute urine using a pyrogallol red assay. CONCLUSIONS: Random urinary PrCr was overestimated in dilute urine when tested using a common pyrocatechol violet dye-based method. This effect was reduced in cohorts when pyrogallol red assays were used. False positive results can impact on diagnosis and patient care. This highlights the need for both clinical and laboratory quality improvement projects and standardization of laboratory protein measurement.

Breastfeeding Initiation Trends by Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children Participation and Race/Ethnicity Among Medicaid Births.

OBJECTIVE: Describe long-term breastfeeding initiation trends by prenatal Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) participation and race/ethnicity. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study of birth certificate data from 2009 to 2017 in 24 states that adopted the 2003 birth certificate revision by 2009. PARTICIPANTS: Term births with hospital costs covered by Medicaid (N = 6,402,704). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Breastfeeding initiation. ANALYSIS: The descriptive characteristics of WIC participants and WIC-eligible nonparticipants were compared by year and race/ethnicity using the chi-square test of independence or t tests. Adjusted breastfeeding initiation prevalence was estimated using linear regression models with county fixed effects, controlling for sociodemographic and obstetric/health factors. Trends were compared by WIC status overall and within racial/ethnic groups. Differences and P values were assessed using interaction terms between WIC and year. RESULTS: Breastfeeding initiation increased for WIC participants and nonparticipants. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children participants had lower adjusted breastfeeding initiation (2009: 69.0%; 2017: 78.5%) than nonparticipants (2009: 70.8%; 2017: 80.1%) (P < 0.001 per year). Breastfeeding initiation increased more rapidly in WIC participants than in nonparticipants for non-Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander (21.4% and 8.6%, respectively; P < 0.001) and American Indian/Alaskan Native (13.6% and 8.1%, respectively; P = 0.02)-narrowing the gap between WIC participants and nonparticipants over time. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Annual birth certificate data provide detailed information for monitoring trends and disparities in breastfeeding initiation by prenatal WIC status. These findings can inform WIC and maternal child health program efforts to improve breastfeeding promotion for populations with low-income and racial/ethnic groups.

Comparison of Suicides Among Younger and Older Adolescents in Virginia, 2008-2017.

Objective: Suicide is the second leading cause of death in youth and is of public health importance. Characteristics and precipitating circumstances may differ by adolescent age groups. Understanding these differences may inform prevention efforts that are population-specific. Therefore, we sought to compare suicides between younger and older adolescents in Virginia from 2008 to 2017.Methods: We used data from the Virginia Violent Death Reporting System (VVDRS), part of the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). We included suicides of all adolescents aged 10-17 who were residents of Virginia from 2008 to 2017. Descriptive statistics and unadjusted logistic regression were used to compare characteristics and circumstances between younger (10-14) and older (15-17) adolescents.Results: Three hundred and 24 (324) adolescents died by suicide between 2008 and 2017 in Virginia, of which 20% were younger adolescents, and 80% were older adolescents. Suicides of younger adolescents increased significantly over the 10-year period. Younger adolescent suicides seemed to occur after a crisis, while suicides among older adolescents occurred due to intimate partner problems and substance use. Mental health issues were common in both.Conclusions: Suicides may be more impulsive among younger adolescents and warrants further attention, while strategies to cope with intimate partner problems and substance use may be important for older adolescents and should be considered when implementing services and interventions. HIGHLIGHTSImpulsivity may be an issue among younger adolescents.Strategies for relationship and substance use issues may benefit older adolescents.Targeted interventions may be necessary for younger and older adolescents.

Affordable Care Act (ACA) Implementation and Adolescent Births by Insurance Type: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis of Births between 2009 and 2017 in the United States.

BACKGROUND: In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted, with full provisions in effect by 2014, including expanded Medicaid coverage, changes to the marketplace, and contraceptive coverage, but its impact on birth trends, particularly adolescent births, is currently unknown. OBJECTIVES: We sought to determine whether ACA implementation was associated with changes in adolescent births and whether this differed by insurance type (Medicaid or private insurance). METHODS: We used revised 2009-2017 birth certificate data, restricted to resident women with a Medicaid or privately paid singleton birth (N = 27,748,028). Segmented regression analysis was used to examine births to adolescent mothers (12-19 years old) before and after the ACA. RESULTS: There were 27,748,028 singleton births (n = 2,013,521 adolescent births) among U.S. residents between 2009 and 2017 in this analytic sample. Adjusted models revealed that the ACA was associated with a 23% significant decrease in odds of an adolescent birth (OR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.77-0.79) for Medicaid-funded births and a 19% decrease (OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.79-0.83) for privately insured births, with a further declining trend. Overall declines in adolescent births among the Medicaid population appear to be driven by states that chose to expand Medicaid. CONCLUSION: Beyond the declining secular trend already observed in adolescent pregnancy over the last 10 years, the ACA appears to have had a substantial impact on adolescent births, likely due to Medicaid expansion and increased access to affordable contraception. From a population health perspective, efforts to undo the ACA could have important consequences for maternal, infant, and family health in the United States.

MAGnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection to prevent Cerebral Palsy (MAG-CP)-implementation of a national guideline in Canada.

BACKGROUND: Evidence supports magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) for women at risk of imminent birth at < 32-34 weeks to reduce the likelihood of cerebral palsy in the child. MAGnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection to prevent Cerebral Palsy (MAG-CP) was a multifaceted knowledge translation (KT) strategy for this practice. METHODS: The KT strategy included national clinical practice guidelines, a national online e-learning module and, at MAG-CP sites, educational rounds, focus group discussions and surveys of barriers and facilitators. Participating sites contributed data on pregnancies with threatened very preterm birth. In an interrupted time-series study design, MgSO4 use for fetal neuroprotection (NP) was tracked prior to (Aug 2005-May 2011) and during (Jun 2011-Sept 2015) the KT intervention. Effectiveness of the strategy was measured by optimal MgSO4 use (i.e. administration when and only when indicated) over time, evaluated by a segmented generalised estimating equations logistic regression (p < 0.05 significant). Secondary outcomes included maternal effects and, using the Canadian Neonatal Network (CNN) database, national trends in MgSO4 use for fetal NP and associated neonatal resuscitation. With an anticipated recruitment of 3752 mothers over 4 years at Canadian Perinatal Network sites, we anticipated > 95% power to detect an increase in optimal MgSO4 use for fetal NP from < 5 to 80% (2-sided, alpha 0.05) and at least 80% power to detect any increases observed in maternal side effects from RCTs. RESULTS: Seven thousand eight hundred eighty-eight women with imminent preterm birth were eligible for MgSO4 for fetal NP: 4745 pre-KT (18 centres) and 3143 during KT (11 centres). The KT intervention was associated with an 84% increase in the odds of optimal use (OR 1.00 to 1.84, p < 0.001), a reduction in the odds of underuse (OR 1.00 to 0.47, p < 0.001) and an increase in suboptimal use (too early or at ≥ 32 weeks; OR 1.18 to 2.18, p < 0.001) of MgSO4 for fetal NP. Maternal hypotension was uncommon (7/1512, 0.5%). Nationally, intensive neonatal resuscitation decreased (p = 0.024) despite rising MgSO4 use for fetal NP (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Multifaceted KT was associated with significant increases in use of MgSO4 for fetal NP, with neither important maternal nor neonatal risks.

Prediction of adverse maternal outcomes from pre-eclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. The ability to predict these complications using simple tests could aid in management and improve outcomes. We aimed to systematically review studies that reported on potential predictors of adverse maternal outcomes among women with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL (inception - December 2016) for studies of predictors of severe maternal complications among women with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Studies were selected in a two-stage process by two independent reviewers, excluding those reporting only on adverse fetal outcomes. We extracted data on study and test(s) characteristics and outcomes. Accuracy of prediction was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios and area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC). Strong evidence of prediction was taken to be a positive likelihood ratio >10 or a negative likelihood ratio <0.1, and for multivariable models, an AUROC ≥0.70. Bivariate random effects models were used to summarise performance when possible. RESULTS: Of 32 studies included, 28 presented only model development and four examined external validation. Tests included symptoms and signs, laboratory tests and biomarkers. No single test was a strong independent predictor of outcome. The most promising prediction was with multivariable models, especially when oxygen saturation, or chest pain/dyspnea were included. CONCLUSION: Future studies should investigate combinations of tests in multivariable models (rather than single predictors) to improve identification of women at high risk of adverse outcomes in the setting of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.