Obstetrics & Gynecology

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

Maternal mortality and COVID-19

Maira L. S. Takemoto, Mariane O. Menezes, Carla B. Andreucci, Roxana Knobel, Liduina A. R. Sousa, Leila Katz, Eduardo B. Fonseca, Claudia G. Magalhaes, Wanderson K. Oliveira, Jorge Rezende-Filho, Adriana S. O. Melo, Melania M. R. Amorim

Summary: This study identified 20 COVID-19-related maternal deaths in Brazil, with most occurring in the postpartum period and a range of 20-43 years old. Asthma was the most common risk factor, and cases were concentrated in the Northeast and Southeast regions, particularly in Sao Paulo. The study suggests that barriers to healthcare, differences in pandemic containment measures, and high prevalence of risk factors for severe COVID-19 may contribute to the observed disparity in maternal outcomes compared to worldwide reports.

JOURNAL OF MATERNAL-FETAL & NEONATAL MEDICINE (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

Association of Gestational Age at Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination, History of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection, and a Vaccine Booster Dose With Maternal and Umbilical Cord Antibody Levels at Delivery

Yawei J. Yang, Elisabeth A. Murphy, Sunidhi Singh, Ashley C. Sukhu, Isabel Wolfe, Sanjana Adurty, Dorothy Eng, Jim Yee, Iman Mohammed, Zhen Zhao, Laura E. Riley, Malavika Prabhu

Summary: Vaccination against COVID-19 during pregnancy resulted in detectable levels of maternal and umbilical cord anti-spike IgG at delivery. A complete vaccination course, prior history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and a third-trimester booster dose were associated with the highest levels of maternal and umbilical cord antibodies.

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

Characteristics and perceptions associated with COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy among pregnant and postpartum individuals: A cross-sectional study

Miranda K. Kiefer, Rebecca Mehl, Maged M. Costantine, Alyson Johnson, Jessica Cohen, Taryn L. Summerfield, Mark B. Landon, Kara M. Rood, Kartik K. Venkatesh

Summary: This study assessed the frequency and characteristics of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among pregnant and postpartum individuals. The results showed that individuals with certain sociodemographic characteristics were more likely to express vaccine hesitancy, while those who had family or friends vaccinated for COVID-19, planned vaccination for other vaccines, and perceived vaccination to benefit the baby were less likely to express COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.

BJOG-AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

Maternal Outcomes After Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection in Vaccinated Compared With Unvaccinated Pregnant Patients

John A. Morgan, Joseph R. Biggio, Jane K. Martin, Naiha Mussarat, Harsheen K. Chawla, Priya Puri, Frank B. Williams

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Article Acoustics

Consensus on revised definitions of Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) features of adenomyosis: results of modified Delphi procedure

M. J. Harmsen, T. van den Bosch, R. A. De Leeuw, M. Dueholm, C. Exacoustos, L. Valentin, W. J. K. Hehenkamp, F. Groenman, C. De Bruyn, C. Rasmussen, L. Lazzeri, L. Jokubkiene, D. Jurkovic, J. Naftalin, T. Tellum, T. Bourne, D. Timmerman, J. A. F. Huirne

Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the need for better-defined Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) features of adenomyosis and to reach consensus on updated definitions through a Delphi procedure. The experts identified a need for more detailed definitions of some MUSA features and recommended the use of 3D ultrasound for optimal visualization. Consensus was achieved on the revised definitions and classification of MUSA features as direct or indirect signs of adenomyosis.

ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

The role of gut and genital microbiota and the estrobolome in endometriosis, infertility and chronic pelvic pain

Mary E. Salliss, Leslie Farland, Nichole D. Mahnert, Melissa M. Herbst-Kralovetz

Summary: The relationship between the microbiome and endometriosis, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is complex and requires further research for a better understanding. Studies have shown a potential link between dysbiotic gut or genital microbiota and gynecologic conditions, highlighting the need for more rigorous study designs and consistent methodology across the field.

HUMAN REPRODUCTION UPDATE (2022)

Review Genetics & Heredity

Diagnostic yield of exome sequencing for prenatal diagnosis of fetal structural anomalies: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Rhiannon Mellis, Kathryn Oprych, Elizabeth Scotchman, Melissa Hill, Lyn S. Chitty

Summary: Prenatal exome sequencing provides an additional diagnostic yield of 31% for structurally abnormal fetuses. Case selection and fetal phenotype significantly affect the diagnostic yield.

PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS (2022)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Preeclampsia and eclampsia: the conceptual evolution of a syndrome

Offer Erez, Roberto Romero, Eunjung Jung, Piya Chaemsaithong, Mariachiara Bosco, Manaphat Suksai, Dahiana M. Gallo, Francesca Gotsch

Summary: This article reviews the history and origin of preeclampsia, conceptualizing it as a multisystemic disorder characterized primarily by vascular dysfunction. It discusses the importance of diagnosis and treatment, as well as the long-term impact on maternal and infant health.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Letter Obstetrics & Gynecology

SARS-CoV-2 infection and subsequent changes in the menstrual cycle among participants in the Arizona CoVHORT study

Sana M. Khan, Alexandra Shilen, Kelly M. Heslin, Alicia M. Allen, Elizabeth T. Jacobs, Leslie V. Farland

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Effects of COVID-19 and mRNA vaccines on human fertility

Fei Chen, Shiheng Zhu, Zhiqing Dai, Lanting Hao, Chun Luan, Qi Guo, Chaofan Meng, Yankun Zhang

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the rapid development and approval of multiple vaccines, including mRNA vaccines, which are considered ideal candidates. However, concerns about safety and efficacy have been raised, particularly regarding fertility. While current evidence is limited, studies suggest that COVID-19 mRNA vaccines do not have negative effects on fertility, even in pregnant women. Additional research, especially larger population-based studies, are needed to further assess the impact of vaccination on reproduction.

HUMAN REPRODUCTION (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

The sixth edition of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen: ensuring quality and standardization in basic examination of human ejaculates

Lars Bjorndahl, Jackson Kirkman Brown

Summary: The principles of basic semen investigation are crucial for obtaining reliable and internationally comparable results. However, many studies and practices in reproductive medicine fail to adhere to these principles, leading to a lack of comparable data and accuracy. To address this issue, the sixth edition of the WHO manual introduces revised methods and a complementary formal standard from the International Standards Organization. The new edition also reintroduces the four-category distinction of sperm motility and emphasizes the importance of semen examination for assessing male reproductive functions and overall male health.

FERTILITY AND STERILITY (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

Menstrual Symptoms After COVID-19 Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Investigation in the MENA Region

Nadia Muhaidat, Mohammad A. Alshrouf, Muayad Azzam, Abdulrahman M. Karam, Majed W. Al-Nazer, Abdallah Al-Ani

Summary: This study investigated the prevalence and impact of menstrual abnormalities after COVID-19 vaccination among females in the Middle East and North Africa region. The study found that approximately 66.3% of participants reported menstrual symptoms post-vaccination, but symptoms resolved within 2 months for 93.6% of participants. Vaccine type did not significantly influence the incidence of abnormalities.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF WOMENS HEALTH (2022)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Number and function of uterine natural killer cells in recurrent miscarriage and implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Ee Von Woon, Orene Greer, Nishel Shah, Dimitrios Nikolaou, Mark Johnson, Victoria Male

Summary: Studies have found significantly increased levels of uterine natural killer cells in women with recurrent miscarriage and recurrent implantation failure, which may contribute to implantation or placental development failure. While results on cytokine secretion varied among studies, most research indicated lower expression of inhibitory receptors and higher expression of angiogenic factors in women with recurrent miscarriage.

HUMAN REPRODUCTION UPDATE (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

In Vitro Fertilization and Early Pregnancy Outcomes After Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination

Devora Aharon, Matthew Lederman, Atoosa Ghofranian, Carlos Hernandez-Nieto, Chelsea Canon, William Hanley, Dmitry Gounko, Joseph A. Lee, Daniel Stein, Erkan Buyuk, Alan B. Copperman

Summary: This retrospective study examined the association between COVID-19 mRNA vaccination and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation or early pregnancy outcomes. The study found no adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination on stimulation or early pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive techniques.

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Protecting Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ritu Cheema, Elizabeth Partridge, Laura R. R. Kair, Kara M. M. Kuhn-Riordon, Angelique I. I. Silva, Maria E. E. Bettinelli, Caroline J. J. Chantry, Mark A. A. Underwood, Satyan Lakshminrusimha, Dean Blumberg

Summary: The understanding of SARS-CoV-2 and its transmission through breastfeeding is incomplete, leading to inconsistent recommendations on breastfeeding for mothers with COVID-19. Initially, temporary separation and expressed breast milk feeding was recommended, but later revised to include direct breastfeeding. This separation can have negative implications for both mother and baby. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in breast milk and its role in transmission remains unclear, but it may provide protective antibodies. Other modes of transmission to neonates are also important to consider. Symptomatic mothers on hydroxychloroquine or treated with remdesivir can safely breastfeed. Breast milk should not be withheld due to its overall safety and nutritional benefits, but the decision should consider the maternal care setting, infection severity, and available resources. Direct breastfeeding with appropriate hygiene precautions is strongly recommended unless separation is necessary.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PERINATOLOGY (2023)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Osteoporosis and fractures in women: the burden of disease

M. Lorentzon, H. Johansson, N. C. Harvey, E. Liu, L. Vandenput, E. V. McCloskey, J. A. Kanis

Summary: Osteoporosis is a common disease with fragility fractures, especially of the spine and hip, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Using fracture liaison services and pharmacological treatment can help reduce fracture numbers.

CLIMACTERIC (2022)

Article Nursing

Receiving maternity care during the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences of women's partners and support persons

Vidanka Vasilevski, Linda Sweet, Zoe Bradfield, Alyce N. Wilson, Yvonne Hauck, Lesley Kuliukas, Caroline S. E. Homer, Rebecca A. Szabo, Karen Wynter

Summary: During the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, the provision of maternity care was altered, leading to negative experiences for partners and support persons. They felt a sense of disconnection, isolation, psychological distress, and reduced bonding time with babies. Conflicting information and processes contributed to uncertainty and a perceived reduction in the quality of care. Despite perceiving the restrictions as beneficial to women, partners and support persons still need opportunities for active involvement in maternity care.

WOMEN AND BIRTH (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

The diagnosis and management of suspected fetal growth restriction: an evidence-based approach

Christoph C. Lees, Roberto Romero, Tamara Stampalija, Andrea Dall'Asta, Greggory R. DeVore, Federico Prefumo, Tiziana Frusca, Gerard H. A. Visser, John C. Hobbins, Ahmet A. Baschat, Caterina M. Bilardo, Henry L. Galan, Stuart Campbell, Dev Maulik, Francesc Figueras, Wesley Lee, Julia Unterscheider, Herbert Valensise, Fabricio Da Silva Costa, Laurent J. Salomon, Liona C. Poon, Enrico Ferrazzi, Giancarlo Mari, Giuseppe Rizzo, John C. Kingdom, Torvid Kiserud, Kurt Hecher

Summary: This article reviews the literature on the diagnosis, antepartum surveillance, and time of delivery of fetuses suspected to be small for gestational age or growth restricted. It addresses the confusion caused by different recommendations from professional organizations and provides evidence-based guidelines for clinical management.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)

Article Obstetrics & Gynecology

FIGO recommendations on the management of postpartum hemorrhage 2022

Maria Fernanda Escobar, Anwar H. Nassar, Gerhard Theron, Eythan R. Barnea, Wanda Nicholson, Diana Ramasauskaite, Isabel Lloyd, Edwin Chandraharan, Suellen Miller, Thomas Burke, Gabriel Ossanan, Javier Andres Carvajal, Isabella Ramos, Maria Antonia Hincapie, Sara Loaiza, Daniela Nasner

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS (2022)

Review Obstetrics & Gynecology

Decidualization resistance in the origin of preeclampsia

Tamara Garrido-Gomez, Nerea Castillo-Marco, Teresa Cordero, Carlos Simon

Summary: Preeclampsia is a dangerous complication in obstetrics that poses life-threatening risks to both mothers and infants. Shallow cytotrophoblast invasion through the uterine decidua is considered a cause of preeclampsia, but the exact reason for deficient invasion remains unknown. The deficiency in decidualization and expression of annexin A2 is associated with impaired invasion and establishment of the maternal-fetal interface. Detection of transcriptional markers related to decidualization deficiency before or after conception can help identify women at risk of developing severe preeclampsia and aid in developing therapeutic strategies to improve decidualization.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (2022)