Postpartum Hemorrhage: Incidence, Causes and Maternal Outcomes at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania—A Retrospective Descriptive Hospital-Based Study

Worldwide obstetric hemorrhage remains the leading cause of maternal mortality, accounting for over one quarter of maternal deaths. Over half of these deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa with mortality rates of 500 - 1000 per 100,000 births, compared to approximately 5 - 10 in developed countries. Over decades in Sub Saharan Africa preventive measures and treatment protocols have been made to reduce maternal mortality caused by PPH. While rates of postpartum hemorrhage have continued to rise, there is a need to evaluate if its etiology and patterns have changed over time. Broad Objective: This study aims at describing trends in incidence, causes and maternal outcomes of Postpartum Hemorrhage at Muhimbili National Hospital for a period of 7 years. Methodology: This is a retrospective descriptive hospital-based study that has included all cases of postpartum hemorrhage at Muhimbili National Hospital, a tertiary hospital in Tanzania from 2014 to 2020. The data was analyzed using SPSS Version 26 and presented using frequency tables, figures and percentages. The trends of postpartum hemorrhage over time were determined using chi-square test and P-value where less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage has been fluctuating over the years with minimum of 1.78% and maximum of 2.87% with no statistical significance. Out of 1113 enrolled cases of PPH, 422 (37.9%) were attributed to genital tears followed by uterine atony 285 (25.6%). A statistically significant increase in linear trend was observed in the postpartum hemorrhage cases due to uterine atony, uterine rupture and sub analysis on genital tears (cervical tear). Overall, there was a statistically significant change in trend of maternal outcomes throughout the years, with a P-value < 0.001 and likelihood of complications increasing over time. Conclusion: The trend in the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage has been fluctuating over the years during the study period. The leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage was genital tears, followed by uterine atony with a significant increase in adverse maternal outcomes over the years. Continuous health education to medical personnel to improve timely and proper diagnosis of women in danger of PPH and timely referral, thus improve maternal morbidity and mortality.

Nursing model of midwifery and postural and psychological interventions:Impact on maternal and fetal outcomes and negative emotions of primiparas

BACKGROUND Primiparas are usually at high risk of experiencing perinatal depression,which may cause prolonged labor,increased blood loss,and intensified pain,affecting maternal and fetal outcomes.Therefore,interventions are necessary to improve maternal and fetal outcomes and alleviate primiparas’negative emotions(NEs).AIM To discusses the impact of nursing responsibility in midwifery and postural and psychological interventions on maternal and fetal outcomes as well as primiparas’NEs.METHODS As participants,115 primiparas admitted to Quanzhou Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital between May 2020 and May 2022 were selected.Among them,56 primiparas(control group,Con)were subjected to conventional midwifery and routine nursing.The remaining 59(research group,Res)were subjected to the nursing model of midwifery and postural and psychological interventions.Both groups were comparatively analyzed from the perspectives of delivery mode(cesarean,natural,or forceps-assisted),maternal and fetal outcomes(uterine inertia,postpartum hemorrhage,placental abruption,neonatal pulmonary injury,and neonatal asphyxia),NEs(Hamilton Anxiety/Depressionrating Scale,HAMA/HAMD),labor duration,and nursing satisfaction.RESULTS The Res exhibited a markedly higher natural delivery rate and nursing satisfaction than the Con.Additionally,the Res indicated a lower incidence of adverse events(e.g.,uterine inertia,postpartum hemorrhage,placental abruption,neonatal lung injury,and neonatal asphyxia)and shortened duration of various stages of labor.It also showed statistically lower post-interventional HAMA and HAMD scores than the Con and pre-interventional values.CONCLUSION The nursing model of midwifery and postural and psychological interventions increase the natural delivery rate and reduce the duration of each labor stage.These are also conducive to improving maternal and fetal outcomes and mitigating primiparas’NEs and thus deserve popularity in clinical practice.

Maternal and fetal outcomes in term premature rupture of membrane

BACKGROUND: Premature rupture of membrane(PROM) is linked to significant maternal prenatal mortalities and morbidity. In Ethiopia, where maternal mortality is still high, the maternal and fetal outcomes in PROM is very important to decrease maternal and child mortality and for better management and prevention of complications. Thus, this study aimed to detect the maternal and fetal outcomes and associated factors in term PROM at Mizan-Aman General Hospital, south-west Ethiopia.METHODS: A retrospective cross sectional study was conducted using data available at MizanAman General Hospital during a period of 3 years(January 2011 to December 2013). We examined records of 4 525 women who gave birth in the hospital; out of these women, 185 were diagnosed with term PROM and all of them were included in the study. The data of these women were collected using a checklist based on registration books. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 statistical package. The association between independent and dependent variables was assessed by bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. 95%CI and P value less than 0.05 were considered statistically signifi cant.RESULTS: Of the 4 525 women who gave birth in the hospital, 202 were complicated by term PROM. About 22.2% of the women showed unfavorable maternal outcomes. The most common cause of maternal morbidity and mortality was puerperal sepsis. About 33.5% of neonates experienced unfavorable outcomes. The duration of PROM >12 hours(AOR=5.6, 95%CI 1.3–24.1) latency >24 hours(AOR=2.8, 95%CI 1.7–11.8), residing in rural areas(AOR=4.2, 95%CI 3.96–29.4) and birth weight less than 2 500 g were associated with unfavorable outcomes.CONCLUSION: Women residing in rural areas, long latency, and neonates with birth weight less 2 500 g may have unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, optimum obstetric and medical care is essential for the reduction of the devastating complications related to disorders.

International Outcomes of COVID-19 during Pregnancy and a Literature Review on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes

Since the first report of COVID-19 in December 2019, our knowledge and treatment modalities have evolved at great pace understanding its impact on the maternal and neonatal outcomes. Whilst pregnant patients are not more susceptible to acquiring the infection as compared to the general population, they may be at higher risk of developing severe symptoms given the physiological changes, relative immune-compromised state of pregnancy, and their neonates at risk of consequent iatrogenic preterm deliveries. Our review article discusses outcomes of pregnant women and neonates with COVID-19 from several countries including the UK, USA, France, Italy and China and provides a narrative review of literature from November 2019 till December 2020.

Efficacy of Danshen Injection Combined with Phosphocreatine Disodium in Treating Frequent Premature Contractions during Pregnancy and Its Effects on Maternal and Infant Outcomes

[Objectives]To explore the efficacy of Danshen Injection combined with phosphocreatine disodium in treating frequent premature contractions during pregnancy and its effect on maternal and infant outcomes.[Methods]A total of 200 pregnant women with normal pregnancy and frequent premature contractions who were treated in the outpatient department of internal medicine in Women and Children's Hospital of Hubei Province and Xinzhou District People's Hospital of Wuhan Central Hospital during September 2015 and October 2018 were selected and randomly divided into the control group and observation group,100 cases for each group.The observation group was treated with Danshen Injection combined with phosphocreatine disodium,and the control group was treated with phosphocreatine disodium alone.The course of treatment in both groups was one week.During the treatment,the changes of heart rate,heart rhythm,electrocardiogram and 24-h dynamic electrocardiogram(DCG)of both groups were observed.[Results]After treatment,the clinical efficacy of the observation group was better than that of the control group,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.01).There were no adverse drug reactions in both groups.However,in the control group,non-sustained ventricular tachycardia(NSVT)was found in 24-h dynamic electrocardiogram(DCG)of 2 pregnant women with premature ventricular contraction.The pregnancy process was smooth,with full-term natural delivery and no fetal malformation.There was no significant difference in gestational age and neonatal weight between the two groups(P>0.05).However,there was a statistically significant difference in Apgar score between the two groups(P<0.05).During the 6-month postpartum follow-up,the mother and child were unharmed,and examination of repeated electrocardiograms showed that the conditions were normal.[Conclusions]Danshen Injection combined with phosphocreatine disodium has better efficacy in the treatment of frequent premature contractions during pregnancy and the maternal and infant outcomes than the treatment with phosphocreatine disodium alone,and it has good safety and can prevent premature contractions from progressing to tachyarrhythmias.

Clinical Manifestations and Maternal and Infant Outcomes of Pregnancy Complicated with Thrombocytopenia

Objective:To explore the clinical manifestations as well as maternal and infant outcomes of pregnancy complicated with thrombocytopenia.Methods:A total of 478 pregnant women with thrombocytopenia,treated in Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital from July 2019 to June 2021,were selected as the research group,while 200 nonnal pregnant women,treated during the same period,were selected as the control group to analyze gestational thrombocytopenia(GT),idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura(ITP),pregnancy-induced hypertension(PIH),adverse maternal and infant outcomes,etc.Results:Among the 478 patients in the research group,the main causes of pregnancy complicated with thrombocytopenia were GT,ITP,and PIH,accounting for 75.51%,6.49%,and 8.79%,respectively,while other causes accounted for 9.21%.There was no significant difference between the research group and the control group in the amoxmt of intrapartum bleeding,premature delivery,stillbirth,thrombocytopenia,and neonatal asphyxia,but there was significant difference in the mode of delivery(P<0.05)・Conclusion:The traditional indexes of coagulation function are not abnormal with decreased platelets in pregnant women with thrombocytopenia,but the indexes of thromboelasticity are abnormal and can reflect the changes of coagulation function.The cesarean section rate of patients with thrombocytopenia in pregnancy increases with the decrease of platelet count,but the mode of delivery should be determined in consideration of specific conditions.

Timing of Elective Repeat Cesarean Delivery at 38 Weeks versus 39 Weeks: Rate of Spontaneous Onset of Labor before Planned Cesarean Section and Impact on Maternal Outcome: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: The timing of elective repeat cesarean delivery at 38 weeks versus 39 weeks is still a debatable subject, both regarding maternal and neonatal outcomes. In the Saudi context, there is lack of local data to aid decision-making regarding the timing of elective repeat cesarean delivery. Objectives: To estimate the rate of spontaneous onset of labor before the planned gestational age for repeat cesarean section in women who were booked at gestational age of (39 0/7 - 39 6/7) weeks (W39) versus (38 0/7 - 38 6/7) weeks (W38) and to compare the rate of maternal composite outcome between these groups. Design: Retrospective cohort. Setting: This study was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, KSA. Method: Delivery registry books were reviewed to identify all deliveries from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016 (3 years). All low-risk pregnant women who had 2 or more cesarean deliveries and who met the inclusion criteria were included. Results: A total of 440 women were included of whom 318 (72.3%) were planned for elective cesarean section at W38 gestational age and 122 women at W39 gestational age. Mothers planned at W39 had higher rate of emergency cesarean deliveries versus those planned at W38 (18.0% versus 10.4%, p = 0.030;RR = 13.06), most frequently due to early onset of contractions (16.4% versus 8.2%, p = 0.012;RR = 12.17) or cervical dilatation (11.6% versus 5.4%, p = 0.024, RR = 16.15). No difference in the incidence of individual or composite maternal complications was noted between the two groups. Mother’s age (OR 0.93, p = 0.018) and schedule date at W39 (OR = 1.94, p = 0.028) were independently associated with spontaneous onset of labor before the scheduled gestational age, while no association was found with parity, previous number of spontaneous vaginal deliveries, number of previous cesarean deliveries or interval from last cesarean delivery. Conclusion: Elective cesarean section scheduled at 39 weeks of gestation or beyond carries a higher risk of emergency cesarean section, with no significant increase in maternal complications. The identification of factors associated with spontaneous onset of labor before the planned gestational age should be carefully identified to determine the optimal timing.

Intrafollicular Soluble RAGE Benefits Embryo Development and Predicts Clinical Pregnancy in Infertile Patients of Advanced Maternal Age Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization

Soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products（s RAGE） can decoy the toxic AGEs and is considered to be a protective factor.This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between intrafollicular s RAGE levels and clinical outcomes in infertile women of young or advanced maternal age（AMA） undergoing in vitro fertilization（IVF）.A total of 62 young women and 62 AMA women who would undergo IVF were included in this prospective study.The intrafollicular s RAGE concentration was measured to determine its association with the number of retrieved oocytes,fertilized oocytes,high-quality embryos or achievement of clinical pregnancy in young and AMA women,respectively.Besides,correlations between sR AGE and age or follicle-stimulating hormone（FSH） were examined.We found that the intrafollicular s RAGE levels were higher in young patients than those in AMA patients,suggesting that the s RAGE levels were inversely correlated with age.In young patients,sR AGE showed no correlation with the number of retrieved oocytes,fertilized oocytes,high-quality embryos or achievement of clinical pregnancy.But it was found that AMA patients with more retrieved oocytes,fertilized oocytes and high-quality embryos demonstrated higher sR AGE levels,which were a prognostic factor for getting clinical pregnancy independent of age or FSH level.In conclusion,the s RAGE levels decrease with age.Elevated intrafollicular s RAGE levels indicate good follicular growth,fertilization and embryonic development,and successful clinical pregnancy in AMA women,while in young women,the role of s RAGE may not be so predominant.

Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Neonatal Outcomes of Pregnant Women with SARS-COV-2 Infection

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and neonatal outcomes of pregnant women with SARS-COV-2 in Wuhan Children's Hospital and further suggested a possible management strategy for infected pregnant women under epidemic situation.In this study,8 pregnant women with SARS-COV-2 who were admitted into Wuhan Children's Hospital,China from February 1,2020 to March 30,2020 and the clinical features,laboratory data,maternal and neonatal outcomes were analyzed.The mean age of the women at the time of admission was 30.6 years.The mean gestational age of the women was 37 weeks±4 days,and one woman presented with dichorionic diamniotic(DCDA)twin pregnancy.Except for one woman who was febrile,others had no typical clinical symptoms.For all pregnant women,the count of white blood cells and lymphocytes appeared normal,but 6 had a lower percentage of lymphocytes.C-reactive protein(CRP)levels were normal for all the women.One neonate was tested positive for the coronavirus IgG and IgM antibodies.The clinical symptoms of the pregnant women with SARS-COV-2 were mild,and the laboratory data showed similar characteristics to those of non-infected pregnant women.Since one neonate was tested positive for coronavirus,there is a possibility of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2.Prompt and efficient screening,triage,and isolation of pregnant women are ffective management strategies to reduce nosocomial infection during the SARS-COV-2 epidemic.

Prevalence, Aetiology, Maternal and Neonatal Outcome of Term Mothers with Anaemia, Presenting to a Tertiary Care Unit for Confinement in Sri Lanka

Objective: To describe the proportion of women presenting with undiagnosed anaemia at confinement and to explore associations between anaemia and socio economic factors, dietary pattern and compare maternal and neonatal outcome among term mothers with anaemia compared to non-anaemic pregnant women at a tertiary care centre in Sri Lanka. Method: A comparative cross-sectional study was performed by recruiting anaemic and non-anaemic term mothers who delivered at the Teaching Hospital Peradeniya during the period March 2018-March 2019. Pregnant mothers whose haemoglobin level was less than 10.5 g/dl were considered as anaemic and compared with the mothers whose haemoglobin level was above this level. With written consent, demographic data, etiological factors, maternal and neonatal outcomes of term mothers were evaluated by an interview and blood samples were withdrawn to carry out anaemia related investigations. Results: Among 2854 pregnancies, a total of 234 (8.19%) term pregnant mothers were anaemic and they were and compared with 199 non-anaemic mothers. Out of the anaemic mothers (Hb < 105 g/l), 133 (56.76%) had moderate anaemia, 100 (42.79%) had mild anaemia and 1 mother (0.45%) had severe anaemia. Low monthly family income was significantly associated with the incidence of anaemia. Anaemia was also associated with low weekly consumption of red meat (OR 8.994;95% CI, 5.74 - 14.09, p < 0.05) and high weekly tea intake (OR 0.217;95% CI 0.144 - 0.327, p < 0.05). Among anaemic mothers, 215 (67.44%) had low serum ferritin (<30 ng/mL) while most of them were diagnosed with iron deficiency anaemia (58.24%) (n = 113) based on haemoglobin. Most anaemic mothers had undergone elective caesarean section (46.26%) while vaginal deliveries (33.33%) were common among non-anamic group. Conclusions: A moderate prevalence of anaemia among term pregnant women in Peradeniya, Sri Lanka was observed and was associated with low socio economic status, low consumption of tea and poor nutrition lacking in red meat.

Management of Obstetric Emergencies in a Tertiary Hospital in Cameroon: A Milestone for End of Preventable Maternal Deaths

Background: Maternal mortality was insufficiently reduced in Cameroon in 2015 despite the adoption of Millennium development goals. To tackle the situation and meet the sustainable Millennium goals target of 140/100,000 live births by 2030, the Government adopted the strategies of building reference hospitals where high quality obstetric care, timely and optimal management of obstetric emergencies will be offered. The objective of this study was to describe the patterns of obstetric emergencies in Douala Gynaeco-obstetric and Paediatric Hospital, evaluate the outcomes of their management and the contribution to maternal mortality. Patients and Methods: 418 patients with obstetric emergencies were included in a two-phase cross-sectional study. Data were retrieved from patients’ case notes during the retrospective phase and a questionnaire filled for each case received during the prospective phase. Patterns of obstetric emergencies were determined and for each, the following were analysed: patient managed in this hospital or referred from other hospitals, management according to hospital guidelines, timing of care, result of management (recovery with no admission in ICU (intensive care unit), admission in ICU, death). Factors associated with each case of death were analysed. Results: The patterns of obstetric emergencies (OE) were dominated by HDP (hypertensive diseases in pregnancy) (20.57%), abortions (14.83%), Ectopic pregnancies (13.87%), Acute foetal distress (13.15%) and Obstructed labour (9.56%). PPH (post partum haemorrhage) represented 7.65% and Sikcle cell crisis (SCA) 0.91%. 40% of cases were referred from other hospitals. Six cases of deaths were recorded with a global case fatality of 1.43%. The causes of death were PPH, HDP, and Sickle cell anaemia 33.33% each. The case fatality of SCA was 50%, disclosing our worst performance. Conclusion: Management of OE following standardized hospital guidelines, reinforcement of referral systems, upgrading obstetrical services with ICU will result in least adverse maternal outcomes and especially reduced maternal mortality.

Fetomaternal Outcome in Maternal Hypothyroidism Complicating Pregnancies at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital

Background: Thyroid disorders are the most common endocrine disorders in pregnancy accounting for 10% of subclinical hypothyroidism in all pregnancies. Screening for hypothyroidism is essential in all pregnant women, especially in Nepal, a low-income region where women have an increased risk of developing iodine deficiency during pregnancy. Hence this study is to analyze fetomaternal outcomes in maternal hypothyroidism complicating pregnancies. Methods: This retrospective observational study was carried out at Paropakar Maternity and Women Hospital, a tertiary center located in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Subjects of this study were 330 antenatal women with a singleton pregnancy with hypothyroidism admitted for delivery in the obstetrics ward, and informed consent was obtained. Women were chosen irrespective of age, parity, residency, and socioeconomic status. Women with multiple pregnancies and any preexisting medical disorders including heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension were excluded. Routine hematological parameters and estimations of T3, T4, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were conducted. Patients with hypothyroidism were divided into overt and subclinical and were subsequently assessed for maternal and fetal complications. The occurrence of maternal outcomes and perinatal outcomes were recorded. Result: Out of 470 total hypothyroid cases, 330 were enrolled in the study and the remaining 140 were excluded. In our study, the incidence of hypothyroidism in pregnancy was 2.11% with 1.7% of subclinical hypothyroidism and 0.31% of overt hypothyroidism. The mean age of the patient was >30 years with 53.3% (n = 176) primigravida. Mostly 70.3% (n = 232) from rural areas. Pre-Eclampsia, gestational diabetes abruptio placenta, and postpartum hemorrhage were the adverse maternal outcome with a higher percentage of these in overt hypothyroidism which was statistically significant. Concerning fetal outcome APGAR score <6 in 5 min, Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), NICU admission, neonatal Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), Intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), and congenital anomaly were found with a higher percentage in overt hypothyroidism. Conclusion: Since the impact of hypothyroidism on fetomaternal morbidities have been identified so screening for hypothyroidism to be included as a routine screening test and should be treated accordingly to improve maternal and fetal outcome.

Feto-Maternal Outcome and Complications of Emergency Caesarean Section among the Patients Admitted at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka City

Background: Caesarean Section done in emergency basis can result some adverse outcome to both the fetus & mother & complications may arise. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to see the fetal & maternal outcome or any complications among the pregnant woman who had undergone emergency caesarean section. Methodology: This descriptive type of cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics at Dhaka Medical College Hospital during the period from July 2006 to December 2006. The patients underwent emergency caesarean section for any indication during the mentioned period of study was selected as study population. Among them, 100 cases were recruited in this study. Result: Among the cases, maternal morbidity was as high as 64% which were due to haemorrhage, post-operative infection, rise of blood pressure and other complications. Regarding fetal outcome, 92% babies were born with normal birth weight, 33% babies were developed complications which were mostly due to birth asphyxia and prematurity. Conclusion: In conclusion, emergency caesarean section has maternal morbidity as well as fetal and neonatal adverse outcome.

Maternal and Neonatal Outcome for Singleton and Twin Pregnancies in Emergency Cesarean Section vs.Urgent Cesarean Section in a Retrospective Evaluation from 2003-2012

Objectives: Emergency cesarean is performed, when a situation requires immediate action in order to reduce the risk to mother and/or child, while urgent cesarean is done if a non-life threatening but compromising situation occurs. The aim of the study was to investigate the maternal and fetal outcome for emergency and urgent cesarean. Study Design: A retrospective case-control study was performed;cases underwent emergency cesarean section, while controls underwent urgent cesarean section. We included 303 cases of women and 336 cases of children, and controls were matched. Maternal and fetal outcome parameters for singleton and twin pregnancies were investigated using the Wilcoxon test and the Chi-square-test. Results: Maternal outcome: Higher?blood loss (cases: mean 383.12 ± 232.89, range 100 - 2500 vs. controls: 336.06 ± 129.19, range 100?- 1000, p = 0.008), hemorrhage (34 vs. 11, p < 0.001) and puerperal anemia (30 vs. 10, p < 0.001). Neonatal outcome: One, five, and ten minutes Apgar levels and umbilical cord pH values are lower for cases (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Twins had lower five and ten minutes Apgar levels (p = 0.040 and 0.002), but higher umbilical cord pH values than singletons (p < 0.001). The perinatal mortality among singletons was 3.8%, among twins 8.1%. For cases the perinatal mortality among singletons was 5.7% and 17.14% for twins (control group 1.41% and 2.63%, respectively). Conclusion: The maternal and fetal outcome is poorer in emergency cesarean section. Especially the perinatal mortality is high in emergency cesarean section, particular for twins.

Clinical Presentation, Management and Materno-Fetal Outcome of Patients with HELLP Syndrome at the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetrics and Pediatric Hospital

Background: HELLP (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets) syndrome is a common complication of severe preeclampsia, with a high maternal and perinatal mortality rate. Data on HELLP syndrome is scanty in our setting. We sought to study the clinical presentation, management, and materno-fetal outcome of patients with HELLP syndrome at the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetrics and Pediatric Hospital (YGOPH). Methods: This was a cross-sectional, analytical study with a retrospective data collection of patients, diagnosed with HELLP syndrome at the YGOPH between 1st January 2020 and 31st July 2021. Data were analyzed using the software R version 4.0.2. Results are presented as mean ± standard deviation, frequencies and percentages. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Of 254 cases of severe preeclampsia, 17 developed HELLP syndrome, giving us a frequency of 6.7%. One patient who presented with hepatitis B was excluded. The mean age was 27.19 ± 6.44 years. Most patients (56.3%) had poor follow up during antenatal contacts. The most common symptom was headache (93.8%). Most cases (56.3%) were diagnosed during post-partum, prepartum (25.0%), and per partum (18.8%). Obstetrical management was done by cesarean section (62.5%) and vaginal delivery (37.5%). Post-partum management of HELLP syndrome consisted of antihypertensive medication, anticonvulsants, sedatives, transfusion of blood and blood products, and fluid resuscitation. Of the 50% of patients who presented with acute kidney injury, only 12.5% (1) were referred for dialysis. Over 50% of our study participants presented severe complications after delivery, but 43.8% recovered, while 56.2% finally died. The fetal outcome was: still birth (31.2%), intra-uterine growth restriction/low birth weight (12.5%), term delivery (≥37 weeks) (31.3%), and preterm deliveries (<37 weeks) (68.7%). Three (18.8%) of the neonates delivered alive presented with a poor Apgar score at the 5th minute. Conclusion: Although rare, HELLP syndrome exists in our setting. Proper management in appropriate centers is key to improving maternal and fetal outcomes.

全身麻醉下剖宫产术的单中心回顾性队列研究（英文）

Objective Neuraxial block is the most common anesthesia method for cesarean section(CS).However,for some urgent and high-risk cesarean delivery,general anesthesia(GA)also plays a very important role.We aimed to find out the reasons of choosing GA for CS in our center and the factors that may be related to the maternal and fetal outcomes.Methods We retrospectively selected parturients who had CS procedures under GA in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 1,2014 to December 31,2016.Clinical data(baseline maternal status,preoperative status,perioperative information,maternal and fetal outcomes)of parturients and neonates were collected and analyzed.We summarized the common reasons for applying general anesthesia,and compared the back-to-ICU ratio and hospital stay time between parturients with different maternal American Society of Anesthesiologists(ASA)grade,gestational weeks and intraoperative blood loss,as well as the fetal one-minute Apgar score between different maternal ASA grade and gestational weeks.Results There were 98 cases of CS under GA enrolled in the study.Among the maternal and fetal factors,pregnancy with internal or surgical diseases is the most common reason(59 cases,60.2%)for choosing GA,followed by the placenta and fetal membrane abnormalities(38 cases,38.8%)and the pregnancy-specific disorders(36 cases,36.7%).ASA gradeⅢ-Ⅳof parturients(χ2=44.3,P<0.05),gestation period<37 weeks(χ2=23.4,P<0.05),and blood loss>800 ml(χ2=5.5,P<0.05)were related to the higher postoperative intensive care unit(ICU)rate in parturients.ASA gradeⅢ-Ⅳof parturients(t=-2.99,P<0.05),gestation period<37 weeks(t=2.47,P<0.05)were related to the longer hospital stay.ASA gradeⅢ-Ⅳof parturients(t=2.21,P=0.01)and gestation period<37 weeks(t=-3.21,P=0.002)were related to the lower one-minute Apgar score of neonates.Conclusion Pregnancy with internal or surgical diseases is the most common reason for choosing GA for CS.High ASA grade and short gestation period were the related factors of high postoperative ICU ratio for parturients and low one-minute Apgar score for neonates.

Women’s Motivation and Associated Factors for Herbal Medicine Use during Pregnancy and Childbirth: A Systematic Review

Background: Herbal medicines use has prevailed over the past decades in both low-middle-income and high-income countries over the years. The use among women has increased with increased risks of ill-health. There is extensive literature on herbal medicine use among women in pre/pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum periods. Therefore, this study aimed to understand women’s purposes, experiences, and motivation for using herbal medicines during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum, and the experiences associated with the use. Methods: Four critical databases were predetermined and searched: CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science, and EMBASE. These databases were chosen for their comprehensiveness and relevance to the review aims. We considered peer-reviewed published articles from January 2000 to December 2018. We chose these databases because we found that they are dominant in the medical and healthcare-related literature. All references were pooled to Endnote reference management software for screening. Quality appraisal of articles was conducted using the Mixed-Method Assessment Tool (MMAT). Content analysis approach was used to extra the data from the articles. Globally, twenty-one articles met the inclusion criteria, and thus, formed the dataset for this review. Results: Most articles (n = 10, 47.6%) reported solely HM uses on only pregnancy whiles the rest evaluated HM uses in labour, pre-pregnancy, and the postpartum periods. The results have shown that the majority of women received information about HM from friends, family, the “black markets,” and drug outlets. Overall, the results were presented in seven broad themes: 1) sociodemographic characteristics of HM users, 2) perceived threat of health problem, 3) sources and quality of the information received, 4) susceptibility to health complications, 5) potential limitations to the use of HM, 6) the motivation for HM utilization, 7) concerns on the combined use of herbal and allopathic medicines. Conclusion: The study recommends the further research into the toxicity of herbal products, to ensure that accurate information can be provided to women before use.

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes at the Bamenda Regional Hospital

Background: Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy. It is one of the leading identifiable cause of preterm deliveries, and an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of PPROM, to identify its associated factors and to evaluate the early outcome (within 72 hrs after delivery) following PPROM at the Bamenda Regional Hospital (BRH). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in March and April 2020. Three hundred and eighty-seven women who delivered at the labour room of the BRH were included in this study. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to obtain data. The cases of PPROM were women who had lost amniotic fluid continuously before hospitalisation and whose gestational age was between 28 weeks + 0 days and 36 weeks + 6 days. Descriptive statistics followed by logistic regression analyses were conducted with level of significance set at p-value <0.05. Results: Among the 387 participants included in the study, 19 had PPROM giving a prevalence of 4.91%. Of 57 preterm deliveries, PPROM accounted for 33.33% (n = 19). The statistically significant independent factors associated with lower odds of PPROM were the age groups 20 - 29 years (aOR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01 - 0.42, p = 0.003) and ≥30 years (aOR = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.001 - 0.14, p = 0.001), and attending ANC ≥ 4 times (aOR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.06 - 0.84, p = 0.026). Whereas, having a multiple pregnancy (aOR = 39.72, 95% CI: 7.19 - 219.33, p < 0.001), urinary tract infection during pregnancy (aOR = 104.86, 95% CI: 12.25 - 897.90, p < 0.001), genital tract infections during pregnancy (aOR = 17.34, 95% CI: 2.67 - 112.56, p = 0.003), and having a history of preterm delivery (aOR = 27.65, 95% CI: 1.76 - 434.15, p = 0.018) were associated with a higher likelihood of PPROM. The study revealed that 10.53% (n = 2) of women who had PPROM had an unfavourable outcome. Babies born by mothers who had PPROM were more likely to have an unfavourable outcome (OR = 14.44, 95% CI: 5.42 - 38.48, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Preterm premature rupture of membranes considerably causes perinatal morbidity and mortality, and thus optimum obstetric and medical care is essential for the reduction of the complications related to it.

Effects of Aspirin on Pregnancy Outcome and Serum Endothelin-1 and Thrombomodulin Levels in Pregnancy Patients with Chronic Hypertension

Objective: To investigate the effect of aspirin on pregnancy outcome and serum levels of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and thrombomodulin (TM) in pregnancy patients with chronic hypertension. Methods: Selected patients with chronic hypertension (mild to moderate) during pregnancy, who were enrolled and delivered in the Beijing Tongren Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology between January 1, 2019 and December 30, 2020. The patients were randomly divided into control group (60) and experimental group (60). The control group was treated with labetalol and the test group was treated with labetalol and aspirin. The therapeutic effect and pregnancy outcome of the two groups were compared. The serum levels of ET-1 and TM were measured before treatment and one week after treatment. Results: Systolic blood pressure (SBP) decreased significantly one week after treatment in the two groups (P < 0.05). One week after treatment, the values of ET-1 and TM in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the Control Group, the difference is statistically significant (P < 0.05). The incidence of Preeclampsia, intrauterine growth retardation, oligohydramnios, placental abruption, Cesarean section and preterm birth in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group. There was significant difference between the two groups, especially Preeclampsia and Intrauterine Growth Retardation (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Besides routine treatment, aspirin can improve the outcome of pregnant women with chronic hypertension, which may be related to the regulation of ET-1 and TM by aspirin.

Caesarian Section for Placenta Praevia: Does Booking Status Affect Maternofetal Outcome?

Background: Placenta praevia accounts for significant maternal morbidity and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in blood transfusion technique and surgical procedure, abnormal placentation still remains a difficult challenge for obstetricians. Objective: To determine the influence of booking status on the fetal and maternal outcome among parturients with placenta praevia that underwent caesarian delivery. Methodology: This was a comparative and retrospective study between booked and unbooked subjects with significant placenta praevia that were delivered by caesarian section between January 1st 2004 and December 31st 2008 with respect to maternal and fetal outcome. Result: Out of 14,344 deliveries during study period, 123 cases of placenta praevia that underwent caesarian delivery were identified giving a prevalence rate of 0.86%. 49 subjects were booked while 74 were unbooked. There was no statistically significant difference between booked and unbooked cases with respect to risk factors (30.6% of booked and 23% of unbooked), X2(4) = 7.203, P = 0.126 and the mean blood loss at surgery (870.4 ± 486.9 ml in booked versus 779.7 ± 380.96 ml in unbooked), X2(1) = 0.202, P = 0.653. However, antepartum transfusion (12.2% booked versus 34.7% unbooked) and postpartum transfusion (51% booked versus 72% unbooked) showed statistically significant difference, X2(1) = 9.744, P = 0.002. One maternal death occurred amongst the unbooked cases and none among the booked cases. Statistically significant differences were also noted in the apgar score at 1 minute X2(3) = 15.528, P = 0.001 and 5 minutes X2(3) = 12.912, P = 0.005 respectively. More babies died in the unbooked group (19) compared to two (2) in the booked mothers. Conclusion: Unbooked status in placenta previa significantly increases the risk for antepartum and postpartum transfusion, is associated with higher mortality, increased preterm delivery, poorer apgar scores and higher perinatal mortality rate.