Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes and is routinely screened for and treated in the first trimester. Prevalence of ASB in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is unknown. AIMS: The aim is to determine the prevalence of ASB in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of 150 pregnant women. Mid-stream urine samples were tested for ASB in the second (24-28+6 ) and third (32-36+6 ) trimesters. Women were assigned to one of two groups: (i) ASB in any trimester of pregnancy and (ii) no evidence of ASB in pregnancy. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups. RESULTS: Among 143 women included in the study, the rate of ASB was 4.9% (2.1, 2.1 and 3.2% in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively). Of those with ASB, 14% had it in every trimester, whereas 43% had it on two or more samples. Of those with ASB in pregnancy, 43% were detected for the first time in the third trimester. Rates of maternal and neonatal outcomes were not statistically significantly different between the two groups. No women with ASB were induced for chorioamnionitis or growth restriction. CONCLUSION: The rate of ASB was highest in the third trimester of pregnancy, with rates of 2.1, 2.1 and 3.2% in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. This study was underpowered to assess maternal and fetal outcomes. Although numbers were small, the absence of ASB in the first trimester was a poor predictor of ASB in the third trimester.

Trends in early gestation stillbirths and neonatal deaths in New South Wales, Australia 2002-2019.

BACKGROUND: Little research has focused on understanding trends in early gestation (20-27 weeks) stillbirths and neonatal deaths. AIMS: To examine trends in early gestation stillbirths and neonatal deaths in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Population-based cohort study of all births ≥20 weeks gestation among female NSW residents during 2002 to 2019, induced pregnancy terminations excluded. Stillbirth rates by gestational age and birth year were calculated per 1000 fetuses-at-risk (FAR). Neonatal death rates by gestational age and birth year were calculated per 1000 live births. Linear regression was used to examine trends in stillbirth and neonatal death rates among all, singleton and twin births. RESULTS: Declining trends in early gestation stillbirth and neonatal death rates were found. Stillbirth rates decreased from 1.9 and 0.9/1000 FAR in 2002 to 1.6 and 0.7 in 2019 for 20-23 and 24-27 week groups, respectively. Neonatal rates decreased from 940 and 315/1000 live births in 2002 to 925 and 189 in 2019 for the 20-23 and 24-27 week groups, respectively. Among singleton births, declining trends in stillbirth and neonatal death rates across all age groups were observed, except for 37-38 week stillbirths. No trends in twin stillbirth rates were found across gestational age groups, although a decreasing trend was observed for 20-23 week twin neonatal deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Trends in early gestation stillbirth and neonatal deaths have declined in recent decades in NSW but further efforts are needed to reduce both early and late gestation stillbirth rates among twin births.

Pregnancy outcomes in women with endometriosis and/or ART use: a population-based cohort study.

STUDY QUESTION: What is the association between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes with ART use and non-use? SUMMARY ANSWER: Endometriosis and ART use are both associated with increased risk of preterm birth, antepartum haemorrhage, placenta praevia and planned birth (caesarean delivery or induction of labour). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: There are contradictory findings on the association between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes, and many large studies have not considered the effect of ART use. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: Population-based cohort study of 578 221 eligible pregnancies during 2006-2015, comparing pregnancy outcomes across four groups (No endo/no ART, No endo/ART, Endo/no ART and Endo/ART). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: All female residents of New South Wales, Australia aged 15-45 years and their index singleton pregnancy of at least 20 weeks gestation or 400 g birthweight. Linked hospital, pregnancy/birth and mortality data were used. Modified Poisson regression with robust error variances was used to estimate adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 99% CIs, adjusting for sociodemographic and pregnancy factors. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Compared to women without endometriosis who had pregnancies without ART use, there was increased risk of preterm birth (<37 weeks) in all groups [No endo/ART (aRR 1.85, 99% CI 1.46-2.34), Endo/no ART (aRR 1.24, 99% CI 1.06-1.44), Endo/ART (aRR 1.93, 99% CI 1.11-3.35)] and antepartum haemorrhage [No endo/ART (aRR 1.99, 99% CI 1.39-2.85), Endo/no ART (aRR 1.31, 99% CI 1.03-1.67), Endo/ART (aRR 2.69, 99% CI 1.30-5.56)] among pregnancies affected by endometriosis or ART use, separately and together. There was increased risk of placenta praevia [No endo/ART (aRR 2.26, 99% CI 1.42-3.60), Endo/no ART (aRR 1.66, 99% CI 1.18-2.33)] and planned birth [No endo/ART (aRR 1.08, 99% CI 1.03-1.14), Endo/no ART (aRR 1.11, 99% CI 1.07-1.14)] among pregnancies with endometriosis or ART use, separately. There was increased risk of placental abruption [No endo/ART (aRR 2.36, 99% CI 1.12-4.98)], maternal morbidity [No endo/ART (aRR 1.67, 99% CI 1.07-2.62)] and low birthweight (<2500 g) [No endo/ART (aRR 1.45, 99% CI 1.09-1.93)] among pregnancies with ART use without endometriosis. There was decreased risk of having a large-for-gestational age infant [Endo/no ART (aRR 0.83, 99% CI 0.73-0.94)] among pregnancies with endometriosis without ART use. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: Endometriosis is often under-diagnosed and women with a history of hospital diagnosis of endometriosis may represent those with more symptomatic or severe disease. If the effects of endometriosis on pregnancy are greater for those with more severe disease, our results may over-estimate the effect of endometriosis on adverse pregnancy outcomes at a population level. We were unable to assess the effect of endometriosis stage or typology on the study outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: These results suggest that women with endometriosis including those who used ART to achieve pregnancy are a higher-risk obstetric group requiring appropriate surveillance and management during their pregnancy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): This study was supported by the Prevention Research Support Program, funded by the New South Wales Ministry of Health. The funder had no role in the design, data collection and analysis, interpretation of results, manuscript preparation or the decision to submit the manuscript for publication. The authors have no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

A study of pregnancy after endometrial ablation using linked population data.

INTRODUCTION: Endometrial ablation encapsulates a range of procedures undertaken to destroy the endometrial lining of the uterus as a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding in women who no longer wish to bear children. Pregnancy following ablation, while unlikely, can occur and may carry higher rates of complications. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with post-endometrial ablation pregnancy and to describe pregnancy and birth outcomes for post-endometrial ablation pregnancies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This population-based data linkage study included all female residents of New South Wales, Australia, aged 15-50 years with a hospital admission between July 2001 to June 2014 who birthed between July 2001 and June 2015. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate associations between women's characteristics and post-endometrial ablation pregnancy of at least 20 weeks' gestation. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize pregnancy and birth outcomes. RESULTS: Of 18 559 women with an endometrial ablation, 575 (3.1%) had a post-ablation pregnancy of at least 20 weeks' gestation. Nulliparity (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 12.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 9.1-16.2), older age (35-39 years: aHR 0.39, 95% CI 0.29-0.51; 40-44 years: aHR 0.06, 95% CI 0.04-0.11), marital status (single: aHR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55-0.83; widowed/divorced/separated: aHR 0.58, 95% CI 0.36-0.94) and a diagnosis of heavy menstrual bleeding (aHR 0.09, 95% CI 0.07-0.13) were associated with post-ablation pregnancy. There were high rates of cesarean delivery (43%), preterm birth (13%), twin or higher order pregnancies (9%) and stillbirth (13.3/1000 births) among these post-ablation pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS: Nulliparity at the time of endometrial ablation is associated with increased risk of post-ablation pregnancy, highlighting the importance of careful discussion and consideration of treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding.

Rates of neonatal morbidity by maternal region of birth and gestational age in New South Wales, Australia 2003-2016.

INTRODUCTION: Research suggests that neonatal morbidity differs by maternal region of birth at different gestational ages. This study aimed to determine the overall and gestation-specific risk of neonatal morbidity by maternal region of birth, after adjustment for maternal, infant and birth characteristics, for women giving birth in New South Wales, Australia, from 2003 to 2016. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study utilized a retrospective cohort study design using linked births, hospital and deaths data. Modified Poisson regression was used to determine risk with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of neonatal morbidity by maternal region of birth, overall and at each gestational age, compared with Australian or New Zealand-born women giving birth at 39 weeks. RESULTS: There were 1 074 930 live singleton births ≥32 weeks' gestation that met the study inclusion criteria, and 44 394 of these were classified as morbid, giving a neonatal morbidity rate of 4.13 per 100 live births. The gestational age-specific neonatal morbidity rate declined from 32 weeks' gestation, reaching a minimum at 39 weeks in all maternal regions of birth. The unadjusted neonatal morbidity rate was highest in South Asian-born women at most gestations. Adjusted rates of neonatal morbidity between 32 and 44 weeks were significantly lower for babies born to East (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 0.65, 95% CI 0.62-0.68), South-east (aRR 0.76, 95% CI 0.73-0.79) and West Asian-born (aRR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88-0.98) mothers, and higher for babies of Oceanian-born (aRR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04-1.18) mothers, compared with Australian or New Zealand-born mothers. Babies of African, Oceanian, South Asian and West Asian-born women had a lower adjusted risk of neonatal morbidity than Australian or New Zealand-born women until 37 or 38 weeks' gestation, and thereafter an equal or higher risk in the term and post-term periods. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal region of birth is an independent risk factor for neonatal morbidity in New South Wales.

Intrapartum fetal blood sampling performed at early cervical dilatation and delivery outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Intrapartum fetal blood sampling (FBS) is a fetal well-being diagnostic test for cardiotocogram abnormalities. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine whether women who had their first FBS at <4 cm cervical dilation had an increased risk of operative delivery (caesarean section, instrumental delivery) compared to those women who had their first FBS ≥ 4 cm dilation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study involving labouring women who underwent FBS in a tertiary centre between 2015 and 2017. Women who had their first FBS at <4 cm dilation were compared to those who had their first FBS at ≥4 cm. The primary outcome was operative delivery (caesarean, instrumental delivery); secondary outcomes were neonatal complications. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between degree of cervical dilation at first FBS and study outcomes. RESULTS: Among 591 women, 39 (6.6%) had their first FBS at <4 cm cervical dilation. Women in the ≥4 cm group were less likely to have a total of ≥2 FBS (P = 0.003). There was no difference in the primary outcome between the two groups. Women who had the first FBS at <4 cm dilation were twice as likely to have a caesarean section delivery (odds ratio 2.06, 95% confidence interval 1.06-3.98), although 41% had a vaginal birth (instrumental and spontaneous). There were no differences in rates of resuscitation or admission to nursery between groups. CONCLUSION: Women who had their first FBS < 4cm cervical dilation were twice as likely to have a caesarean section compared to women who had their first FBS ≥ 4 cm. However, 41% had a vaginal birth, and there were no differences in fetal outcomes.

Pregnancy outcomes for women with a history of stroke: A population-based record linkage study.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about the pregnancy outcomes of women who have had a stroke prior to a first pregnancy. AIM: To identify a cohort of primiparous women giving birth to a single baby and compare the pregnancy outcomes of those with a pre-pregnancy stroke hospitalisation record to those without a stroke hospitalisation record. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Record linkage study of all primiparous women aged 15-44 years with singleton pregnancies birthing in New South Wales, Australia from 2003 to 2015. Stroke was identified from 2001 to 2015 hospital data using International Classification of Diseases tenth Edition - Australian Modification codes I60-64. Women whose first hospital record of stroke was during pregnancy or <42 days after birth were excluded. Outcomes included diabetes or hypertension during pregnancy, mode of delivery, haemorrhage, severe maternal morbidity (validated composite outcome indicator), gestational age at birth, Apgar score (1 min < 7), and small-for-gestational age. RESULTS: Of 487 767 women with a first pregnancy, 124 (2.5/10 000) had a hospital record which included a pre-pregnancy stroke diagnosis. Women with a stroke history were more likely to have an early-term delivery (37-38 weeks; relative risk (RR) 1.49, 95% CI 1.17-1.90) and a pre-labour caesarean (RR 2.83, 95% CI 2.20-3.63). There were no significant differences in other maternal or neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSION: This is the largest reported study of pregnancy and birth outcomes for women with a history of stroke. With the exception of pre-labour caesarean, there were no differences in pregnancy outcomes for women with a history of stroke compared with women with no history of stroke.

Is mode of first birth a risk factor for subsequent preterm birth?

BACKGROUND: Previous preterm birth is a strong predictor of subsequent preterm birth, but less is known about the causes of preterm birth following a full-term first pregnancy. Recent research has highlighted previous caesarean section as a potential risk factor. AIM: To examine the relationship between mode of first birth and the risk of subsequent preterm birth in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A population-based record-linkage study of NSW women who had a live singleton first birth at ≥37 weeks gestation, followed by a singleton second birth between 2005 and 2017. Relative risk (RR) and 95% CI of preterm birth in the subsequent pregnancy was calculated using modified Poisson regression, with mode of first birth as the exposure. Spontaneous preterm birth and preterm prelabour caesarean were secondary outcomes. RESULTS: Women who had either an intrapartum (RR: 1.26, 95% CI 1.19-1.32) or prelabour caesarean (RR: 1.26, 95% CI 1.18-1.35) first birth had a higher risk of subsequent preterm birth (any birth <37 weeks gestation), than those who birthed vaginally. Women who had a previous instrumental birth (RR: 0.85, 95% CI 0.79-0.91) or prelabour caesarean (RR: 0.74, 95% CI 0.67-0.82) had lower risks of subsequent spontaneous preterm birth. However, prior prelabour caesarean also greatly increased risk of subsequent preterm prelabour caesarean (RR: 5.25, 95% CI 4.65-5.93). CONCLUSIONS: The mode of first birth has differing effects on the risk of subsequent spontaneous preterm birth and preterm prelabour caesarean. Awareness of the risk of subsequent preterm birth following caesarean section may help inform clinical decisions around mode of first birth.

Preterm birth, unplanned hospital contact, and mortality in infants born to teenage mothers in five countries: An administrative data cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Young maternal age is associated with lower birthweight and higher rates of preterm birth and childhood hospitalisations. Internationally, teen pregnancy rates vary widely, reflecting differences in social, welfare, and health care factors in different cultural contexts. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the increased risk of adverse infant outcomes among teenage mothers varies by country, reflecting different national teenage birth rates and country-specific social/welfare policies, in Scotland (higher teenage pregnancy rates), England, New South Wales (NSW; Australia), Ontario (Canada), and Sweden (lower rates). METHODS: We used administrative hospital data capturing 3 002 749 singleton births surviving to postnatal discharge between 2010 and 2014 (2008-2012 for Sweden). We compared preterm birth (24-36 weeks' gestation), mortality within 12 months of postnatal discharge, unplanned hospital admissions, and emergency department visits within 12 months of postnatal discharge, for infants born to mothers aged 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, and 30-34 years. RESULTS: Compared to births to women aged 30-34 years, risks of adverse outcomes among teenage mothers were higher in all countries, but the magnitude of effects was not related to country-specific rates of teenage births. Teenage mothers had between 1.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.7, 1.7, Sweden) and 2.0% (95% CI 1.4, 2.5, NSW) more preterm births, and between 9.8 (95% CI 7.2, 12.4, England) and 19.7 (95% CI 8.7, 30.6, Scotland) more deaths per 10 000 infants, compared with mothers aged 30-34. Between 6.4% (95% CI 5.5, 7.4, NSW) and 25.4% (95% CI 24.7, 26.1, Ontario), more infants born to teenage mothers had unplanned hospital contacts compared with those born to mothers aged 30-34. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of country, infants born to teenage mothers had universally worse outcomes than those born to older mothers. This excess risk did not vary by national rates of livebirths to teenage mothers. Current mechanisms to support teenage mothers have not eliminated maternal age-related disparities in infant outcomes; further strategies to mitigate excess risk in all countries are needed.

Gestational age, morbidity and mortality among twin births in New South Wales, Australia 2003-2014: A cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that the trend toward early planned births observed among singletons may be evident among twin pregnancies. AIMS: To describe trends in gestational age at birth, pregnancy characteristics, neonatal morbidity and mortality among twin pregnancies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Population-based data linkage study of twin births of ≥30 weeks of gestation without a major congenital anomaly born in 2003-2014 in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Linked pregnancy and birth, hospital and mortality data were used. Generalised linear regression was used to assess linear trends. Risk difference (RD) and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. RESULTS: Among 28 076 eligible twin births (14 038 pregnancies), 49% of births occurred prior to 37 weeks and 69% of births were planned (pre-labour caesarean or induction of labour). There were increases over time in the proportion of twin births at preterm gestations (30-34 weeks (RD 2.1, 95% CI 0.1, 4.0), 35-36 weeks (RD 7.5, 95% CI 5.4, 9.7)) and in the rates of planned births (pre-labour caesarean (RD 6.4, 95% CI 4.0, 8.8), induction (RD 4.6, 95% CI 2.6, 6.6)). There was no significant change in stillbirth or neonatal death rates, but there was an increase in neonatal morbidity over the study period. Concurrently, there were increases in the prevalence of gestational diabetes; and decreases in pregnancy hypertension, assisted reproductive technology use, small-for-gestational age and birthweight discordance. CONCLUSIONS: Gestational age at birth among twin births is decreasing and birth intervention is increasing. There are increasing rates of neonatal morbidity, but no overall change in perinatal mortality.

Rates of stillbirth by maternal region of birth and gestational age in New South Wales, Australia 2004-2015.

BACKGROUND: Research suggests that in Australia, maternal region of birth is a risk factor for stillbirth. AIMS: We aimed to examine the relationship between stillbirth and maternal region of birth in New South Wales (NSW), Australia from 2004 to 2015. METHODS: Adjusted logistic regression was used to determine odds of stillbirth by maternal region of birth, compared with Australian or New Zealand-born (AUS/NZ-born) women. Intervention rates (induction or pre-labour caesarean) by maternal region of birth, over time, were also examined. Interaction terms were used to assess change in relative odds of stillbirth, over two time periods (2004-2011 and 2012-2015). RESULTS: There were 944 457 singleton births ≥24 weeks gestation that met the study inclusion criteria and 3221 of these were stillbirths, giving a stillbirth rate of 3.4 per 1000 births. After adjustment for confounders, South Asian (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.42, 95% CI 1.24-1.62), Oceanian (aOR 1.45, 95% CI 1.17-1.80) and African (aOR 1.46, 96% CI 1.19-1.80) born women had significantly higher odds of stillbirth that AUS/NZ-born women. Intervention rates increased from the earlier to the later time period by 13.1% across the study population, but the increase was larger in African and South Asian-born women (18.1% and 19.6% respectively) than AUS/NZ-born women (11.2%). There was a significant interaction between ethnicity and time period for South Asian-born women in the all-births model, with their stillbirth rates becoming closer to AUS/NZ-born women in the later period. CONCLUSION: South Asian, African and Oceanian maternal region of birth are independent risk factors for stillbirth in NSW.

Blood transfusion following intended vaginal birth after cesarean vs elective repeat cesarean section in women with a prior primary cesarean: A population-based record linkage study.

INTRODUCTION: There is a lack of evidence around the risk of transfusion following vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) compared with elective repeat cesarean section (ERCS); this is important for decision-making about birth options. The aim of this study was to determine transfusion rates and risk of transfusion following intended VBAC and ERCS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Women with a primary cesarean who had a subsequent birth at term (≥37 weeks) in New South Wales between 2000 and 2012, were identified from the New South Wales Perinatal Data Collection. Blood transfusions were identified from linked hospital records. Women deemed ineligible for VBAC were excluded. Modified Poisson regression was used to determine transfusion risk associated with intended VBAC compared with ERCS. Intended mode of birth was classified as: (1) intended VBAC and vaginal birth, (2) intended VBAC and cesarean, (3) intended ERCS and (4) "intention uncertain". RESULTS: A total of 90 439 women were eligible for VBAC. Rates of transfusion were: 1.4% for intended VBAC and vaginal birth (n = 17 849); 1.2% for intended VBAC and cesarean (n = 7648); 0.3% for intended ERCS (n = 60 471); and 1.1% for "intention uncertain" (n = 4471). After adjusting for maternal and pregnancy characteristics, risk of transfusion was almost four times higher for women classified as intended VBAC than intended ERCS (adjusted risk ratio = 3.73, 95% confidence interval 2.90-4.78). CONCLUSIONS: Following a prior primary cesarean, there was a higher risk of transfusion associated with attempting VBAC compared with ERCS. Though the absolute risk is small, it is important for women considering VBAC to choose birthing facilities with ready access to blood products.

Childhood health and education outcomes following early term induction for large-for-gestational age: A population-based record linkage study.

INTRODUCTION: There is debate about optimal management of pregnancies with a large-for-gestational age baby. A recent randomized controlled trial reported that early term induction of labor reduced cesarean section rates and infant morbidity. However, long term childhood outcomes have not been assessed. The aim of this study was to assess maternal, neonatal and child health and education outcomes for large-for-gestational age babies induced at 37-38 weeks' gestation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Population-based record linkage study of term (37+ weeks), cephalic-presenting singleton pregnancies with a large-for-gestational age baby in New South Wales, Australia, 2002-2006. Linked birth, hospital, mortality and education data were used with at least 9 years follow up from birth. Exposure was induction of labor at 37-38 weeks, compared to expectant management (spontaneous birth at ≥37 weeks and planned births at ≥39 weeks). Relative risks and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using Modified Poisson regression with robust variance. RESULTS: Among 10 174 eligible pregnancies, 412 (4.0%) had an induction at 37-38 weeks. Women in the induction group were less likely to have a cesarean section (RR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.51-0.82). Infants had higher rates of: low Apgar scores, birth trauma, neonatal jaundice and phototherapy use, and admission to special care nursery or neonatal intensive care than their expectantly managed counterparts. As children, they had higher rates of hospital admission (RR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.04-1.30) and special needs (RR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.12-3.50). However, by age 8 there was no difference in overall literacy and numeracy achievement. CONCLUSIONS: Although women who had an early term labor induction with large-for-gestational age were less likely to have a cesarean section, the increased risk of neonatal morbidities and additional healthcare utilization suggests the need for caution in early induction of large-for-gestational age babies before 39 weeks' gestation.

Appendicectomy during pregnancy and the risk of preterm birth: A population data linkage study.

BACKGROUND: Suspected appendicitis is a common non-obstetric indication for emergency abdominal surgery during pregnancy. AIMS: Assess the risk of preterm birth and other maternal and neonatal adverse birth outcomes following appendicectomy during pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Population-based data linkage study of women with singleton births in New South Wales, Australia, 2002-2014. Pregnancies with appendicitis and appendicectomy were compared to pregnancies without appendicitis. Crude and adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for preterm birth were estimated. Modified Poisson regression with robust variance was used to estimate crude and adjusted risk ratios (aRR) with 99% CI for other outcomes. RESULTS: Of 1 124 551 eligible pregnancies, 1024 (0.9/1000 pregnancies) had appendicitis and appendicectomy. Of these, 566 (55.3%) had laparoscopic and 458 (44.7%) had open appendicectomy. Appendicectomy at later gestational ages was associated with increasing rates of preterm birth. After adjustment for maternal and pregnancy factors, appendicectomy was associated with increased risk of preterm birth (overall aHR 1.73, 95% CI 1.42-2.09; planned aHR 2.08, 95% CI 1.60-2.72), maternal morbidity (aRR 2.68, 99% CI 1.88-3.83) and neonatal morbidity (aRR 1.42, 99% CI 1.03-1.94). However, there was no difference in perinatal mortality rates. CONCLUSION: Appendicectomy during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of spontaneous and planned preterm birth, maternal and neonatal morbidity. Availability of resources to prevent or manage preterm labour should be considered when appendicectomy is performed at gestational ages of 20 weeks or more.

Pediatric admissions that include intensive care: a population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric admissions to intensive care outside children's hospitals are generally excluded from registry-based studies. This study compares pediatric admission to specialist pediatric intensive care units (PICU) with pediatric admissions to intensive care units (ICU) in general hospitals in an Australian population. METHODS: We undertook a population-based record linkage cohort study utilizing longitudinally-linked hospital and death data for pediatric hospitalization from New South Wales, Australia, 2010-2013. The study population included all new pediatric, post-neonatal hospital admissions that included time in ICU (excluding neonatal ICU). RESULTS: Of 498,466 pediatric hospitalizations, 7525 (1.5%) included time in an intensive care unit - 93.7% to PICU and 6.3% to ICU in a general (non-PICU) hospital. Non-PICU admissions were of older children, in rural areas, with shorter stays in ICU, more likely admitted for acute conditions such as asthma, injury or diabetes, and less likely to have chronic conditions, receive continuous ventilatory support, blood transfusion, parenteral nutrition or die. CONCLUSIONS: A substantial proportion of children are admitted to ICUs in general hospitals. A comprehensive overview of pediatric ICU admissions includes these admissions and the context of the total hospitalization.

Outcomes of Gallstone Disease during Pregnancy: a Population-based Data Linkage Study.

BACKGROUND: Gallstone disease is a leading indication for non-obstetric abdominal surgery during pregnancy. There are limited whole population data on maternal and neonatal outcomes. This population-based study aims to describe the outcomes of gallstone disease during pregnancy in an Australian setting. METHODS: Linked hospital, birth, and mortality data for all women with singleton pregnancies in New South Wales, Australia, 2001-2012 were analysed. Exposure of interest was gallstone disease (acute biliary pancreatitis, gallstones with/without cholecystitis). Outcomes including preterm birth (spontaneous and planned), readmission, morbidity and mortality (maternal and neonatal) were compared between pregnancies with and without gallstone disease. Adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 99% confidence intervals were estimated using modified Poisson regression and adjusted for maternal and pregnancy factors. RESULTS: Among 1 064 089 pregnancies, 1882 (0.18%) had gallstone disease. Of these, 239 (12.7%) had an antepartum cholecystectomy and 1643 (87.3%) were managed conservatively. Of those managed conservatively, 319 (19.0%) had a postpartum cholecystectomy. Gallstone disease was associated with increased risk of preterm birth (aRR 1.3, 99% CI 1.1, 1.6), particularly planned preterm birth (aRR 1.6, 99% CI 1.2, 2.1), maternal morbidity (aRR 1.6, 99% CI 1.1, 2.3), maternal readmission (aRR 4.7, 99% CI 4.2, 5.3), and neonatal morbidity (aRR 1.4, 99% CI 1.1, 1.7). Surgery was associated with decreased risk of maternal readmission (aRR 0.4, 99% CI 0.2, 0.7). CONCLUSIONS: Gallstone disease during pregnancy was associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Most women with gallstone disease during pregnancy are managed conservatively. Surgical management was associated with decreased risk of readmission.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes following abnormally invasive placenta: a population-based record linkage study.

INTRODUCTION: Abnormally invasive placenta involves abnormal adherence of the placenta to the myometrium and is associated with severe pregnancy complications such as blood transfusion and hysterectomy. Knowledge of outcomes has been limited by small sample sizes and a focus on maternal rather than neonatal outcomes. This study uses population-level data collected over 10 years to investigate maternal and neonatal outcomes and trends in incidence of abnormally invasive placenta (also known as placenta accreta, increta and percreta). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A population-based record linkage study was performed, including all women who gave birth in New South Wales, Australia, between 2003 and 2012. Data were obtained from birth records, hospital admissions and deaths registrations. Modified Poisson regression models, adjusted for confounding factors, were used to quantify the effect of abnormally invasive placenta on adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS: Abnormally invasive placenta was significantly associated with morbidity for mothers (adjusted relative risk 17.6, 99% confidence interval 14.5-21.2) and infants (adjusted relative risk 3.1, 99% confidence interval 2.7-3.5). Abnormally invasive placenta increased risk of stillbirth (relative risk 5.4, 99% confidence interval 4.0-7.3) and neonatal death (relative risk 8.0, 99% confidence interval 1.5-41.6). The overall rate of abnormally invasive placenta was 24.8 per 10 000 deliveries, and 22.7 per 10 000 among primiparae. Incidence increased by 30%, from 20.6 to 26.9 per 10 000, over the 10-year study period. CONCLUSIONS: Abnormally invasive placenta substantially increases the risk of severe adverse outcomes for mothers and babies, and the incidence is increasing. Delivery should occur in tertiary hospitals equipped with neonatal intensive care units. Clinicians should be cognizant of the risks, particularly to infants, and maintain a high index of suspicion of abnormally invasive placenta, including in primiparae.

Predictors of autopsy following stillbirth in Queensland, Australia: A population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Accurate determination of causes of stillbirth is critical to effective prevention. Autopsy remains the gold standard investigation for stillbirth; however, with low autopsy rates many stillbirths are likely to be 'unexplored' rather than 'unexplained'. AIM: To determine factors associated with autopsy following stillbirth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Routinely collected population-based data on all singleton stillbirths of at least 400 g birthweight or 20 weeks gestation in Queensland between July 2000 and December 2011 were examined. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR, 99% CI) were calculated accounting for sociodemographic, pregnancy and medical factors. Of interest was initially unexplained stillbirth on the death certificate; analysis was stratified by gestational age group (<24, 24-27, 28-36 and ≥37 weeks). RESULTS: Of 3842 singleton stillbirths included in these analyses, 1356 (35.3%) had an autopsy performed. Initially unexplained stillbirth was associated with decreased odds of autopsy at late gestation (28-36 weeks, aOR 0.63 (99% CI 0.42-0.93); ≥37 weeks, aOR 0.53 (99% CI 0.35-0.81)) as was intrapartum stillbirth (<24 weeks, aOR 0.63 (99% CI 0.43-0.94); 28-36 weeks, aOR 0.37 (99% CI 0.14-0.98)). Congenital abnormality (<24 weeks, ≥37 weeks), small-for-gestational age (<24 weeks), and primigravidity (≥37 weeks) were associated with increased odds of autopsy following stillbirth. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy factors are associated with stillbirth autopsy. These findings have implications for development of appropriate information for parents and education of clinical staff. Further research is needed into factors influencing autopsy following stillbirth.

Gestational age specific stillbirth risk among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women in Queensland, Australia: a population based study.

BACKGROUND: In Australia, significant disparity persists in stillbirth rates between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous Australian) and non-Indigenous women. Diabetes, hypertension, antepartum haemorrhage and small-for-gestational age (SGA) have been identified as important contributors to higher rates among Indigenous women. The objective of this study was to examine gestational age specific risk of stillbirth associated with these conditions among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women. METHODS: Retrospective population-based study of all singleton births of at least 20 weeks gestation or at least 400 grams birthweight in Queensland between July 2005 and December 2011 using data from the Queensland Perinatal Data Collection, which is a routinely-maintained database that collects data on all births in Queensland. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95 % confidence intervals, adjusting for maternal demographic and pregnancy factors. RESULTS: Of 360987 births analysed, 20273 (5.6 %) were to Indigenous women and 340714 (94.4 %) were to non-Indigenous women. Stillbirth rates were 7.9 (95 % CI 6.8-9.2) and 4.1 (95 % CI 3.9-4.3) per 1000 births, respectively. For both Indigenous and non-Indigenous women across most gestational age groups, antepartum haemorrhage, SGA, pre-existing diabetes and pre-existing hypertension were associated with increased risk of stillbirth. There were mixed results for pre-eclampsia and eclampsia and a consistently raised risk of stillbirth was not seen for gestational diabetes. CONCLUSION: This study highlights gestational age specific stillbirth risk for Indigenous and non-Indigenous women; and disparity in risk at term gestations. Improving access to and utilisation of appropriate and responsive healthcare may help to address disparities in stillbirth risk for Indigenous women.

The Betadine trial - antiseptic wound irrigation prior to skin closure at caesarean section to prevent surgical site infection: A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Surgical site infections (SSIs) occur in around 10% of women following a caesarean section. Efforts to reduce SSI include wound irrigation with povidone-iodine (PVI), but studies are nonconclusive, mostly old and few on women having caesarean section (CS). AIMS: To assess povidone-iodine (PVI) (Betadine) irrigation of wound prior to skin closure in reducing incidence of SSI after CS. Our hypothesis was that there would be no benefit with its use in reducing SSIs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomised controlled trial with 3027 women. Women having CS were allocated to receive PVI irrigation or no irrigation after closure of fascia and before skin closure. Women were followed up to four weeks to assess for SSI. Main outcome measure was surgical site infection. RESULTS: The two groups (1520 in Betadine and 1507 on no Betadine group) were well balanced. The incidence of SSI was similar in the two groups (9.5% vs 9.8%, RR 0.97; 95% CI 0.78-1.21). There was no difference between groups (2.6% vs 2.0%, RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.81-2.06 Betadine vs no Betadine, respectively) in readmission for wound infection requiring intravenous antibiotics; this was so in both the elective CS group as well as CS in labour group. CONCLUSION: PVI irrigation after the closure of fascia and before closure of skin is of no benefit in the prevention of SSI in women undergoing CS.