Cojoined twins: safe termination of pregnancy through dilation and evacuation at later gestation: a case series

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is limited evidence on termination of pregnancy for cojoined twin documented with only 33 cases reports to-date. This study aimed to describe the clinical and procedure characteristics of second trimester dilation and evacuation(D&E) for cojoined twins at later gestation. METHODS: This retrospective case series was conducted at a tertiary-level hospital in Ethiopia from February 2023- July 2023. Women who had a cojoined twin pregnancy in later gestation (≥20 weeks) and underwent second trimester D&E were retrospectively studied through chart review. Clinical presentation, D&E procedural description, and procedure outcomes of the cases were analyzed. RESULTS: Three women who had a cojoined twin in later gestation (≥20 weeks) and underwent second trimester D&E were identified. In two of the cases, a two- day cervical preparation with laminaria was used to prepare the cervix while overnight Foley catheter (1-day preparation) was used for similar purpose in the third case. A cervical dilation of 3 cm was achieved in all cases and was deemed adequate to proceed with the procedure by the managing physicians. Intra-operative ultrasound guidance was utilized in all the cases and there were no complications encountered. CONCLUSION: Our case series underscores the importance of achieving adequate cervical preparation, utilization of intra-operative ultrasound guidance, and handling the procedure by the most experienced provider, in increasing the safety and effectiveness of D&E procedures for conjoined twin at later gestation.

Misoprostol and mid trimester termination of pregnancy in patients with two previous scars and more at Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital / Misoprostol e interrupção da gravidez no meio do trimestre em pacientes com duas cicatrizes anteriores e mais no Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital

Abstract Objectives: to determine efficiency and safety of three misoprostol regimens for 2nd trimester pregnancy termination in individuals with two or more cesarean section scars. Methods: a cross-sectional study included 100 pregnant ladies at 13th-26th weeks gestation with previous two cesarean sections (CSs) who were scheduled for pregnancy termination using misoprostol. Patients were conveniently assigned to 100µg/3h, 200µg/3h or 400 µg/3h regimens. Primary outcome was time to abortion, secondary outcomes were side effect and complications. Results: a significant association was found between number previous CSs and longer time to abortion (p=0.01). A highly significant association was identified between earlier gestational age and longer time to abortion (p<0.001). Lower side effects and complications were associated with 200 µg misoprostol every 3 hours of (p<0.001). Incomplete abortion was the most frequent recorded complication for the successive doses of misoprostol. Conclusions: misoprostol is an effective drug at low doses for pregnancy termination in women with prior two or more caesarean sections. However, its safety needs monitoring of the patient in the hospital to decrease morbidity and mortality behind its use.

Resumo Objetivos: determinar a eficiência e segurança de três regimes de misoprostol para interrupção da gravidez no segundo trimestre em indivíduos com duas ou mais cicatrizes de cesariana. Métodos: um estudo transversal incluiu 100 gestantes entre 13ª e 26ª semanas de gestação com duas cesarianas (CEs) anteriores que foram agendadas para interrupção da gravidez com uso de misoprostol. Os pacientes foram convenientemente designados para regimes de 100 µg/3 horas, 200 µg/3 horas ou 400 µg/3 horas. O desfecho primário foi o tempo para o aborto, os desfechos secundários foram efeitos colaterais e complicações. Resultados: foi encontrada associação significativa entre o número de cesáreas anteriores e o maior tempo até o aborto (p=0,01). Foi identificada associação altamente significativa entre idade gestacional mais precoce e maior tempo para abortar (p<0,001). Menores efeitos colaterais e complicações foram associados com 200 µg de misoprostol a cada 3 horas (p<0,001). O aborto incompleto foi a complicação mais frequente registrada para as doses sucessivas de misoprostol. Conclusões: o misoprostol é um medicamento eficaz em doses baixas para interrupção da gravidez em mulheres com duas ou mais cesarianas anteriores. Porém, sua segurança necessita de monitoramento do paciente no hospital para diminuir a morbimortalidade por trás de seu uso.

VIH/SIDA en embarazadas: evaluación hematológica e inmunológica y peso de sus neonatos / HIV/AIDS in pregnant women: hematological and immunological evaluation and weight of their neonates

Objetivo: Determinar la incidencia de infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana y el efectos sobre el peso del neonato, en embarazadas que acuden al Hospital Universitario de Caracas. Métodos: Se incluyeron las gestantes seropositivas para infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana. Se practicó Elisa para infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana, Webstern blot, hematología y química, linfocitos CD3, CD4 y CD8 por citometría, carga viral, se registró el peso de 204 neonatos y el esquema de tratamiento recibido. Resultados: La frecuencia de infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana en gestantes aumentó desde el año 2000; la mayoría ocurre durante el tercer trimestre. El 68,55 % de las gestantes en segundo y tercer trimestre presentaron hemoglobina mayor a 11 g y el 31,45 % tuvo hemoglobina de 7 a 10 g. La relación CD4/CD8 estuvo disminuida. Los niveles de CD4 del segundo trimestre fueron más bajos en pacientes con hemoglobina entre 7 y 10 gramos. Esta relación no se vio en el tercer trimestre, quizás por el grado de supresión viral por el tratamiento; las madres del 95,7 % de los neonatos con bajo peso al nacer recibieron terapia antirretroviral combinada, no hubo neonatos con bajo peso al nacer hijos de madres que recibieron monoterapia. Conclusión: La prevalencia de infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana fue 1,6 %. La prevalencia de anemia fue de 31,45 %. La relación CD4/CD8 estaba disminuida. Hubo 11,3 % de neonatos con bajo peso al nacer, en 95,7 % las madres recibieron terapia antirretroviral combinada(AU)

Objective: To determine the incidence of infection by human immunodeficiency virus and the effects on the weight of the newborn, in pregnant women who attend the University Hospital of Caracas. Methods: Seropositive pregnant women for human immunodeficiency virus infection were included. Elisa was performed for human immunodeficiency virus infection, Websternblot, hematology and chemistry, CD3, CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes by cytometry, viral load, the weight of 204 neonates and the treatment scheme received were recorded. Results: The frequency of infection by human immunodeficiency virus in pregnant women has increased since the year 2000; most occur during the third trimester. 68.55% of pregnant women in the second and third trimester had hemoglobin greater than 11 g and 31.45% had hemoglobin between 7 and 10 g. The CD4/CD8 ratio was decreased. Second trimester CD4 counts were lowest in patients with hemoglobin between 7 and 10 grams. This relationship was not seen in the third trimester, perhaps because of the degree of viral suppression by treatment; mothers of 95.7% of low birth weight infants received combination antiretroviral therapy, there were no low birth weight infants born to mothers who received monotherapy. Conclusion: The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection was 1.6%. The prevalence of anemia was 31.45%. The CD4/CD8 ratio was decreased. There were 11.3% of neonates with low birth weight, in 95.7% the mothers received combination antiretroviral therapy(AU)

Outcome analysis of pregnancy termination and expectant treatment in pregnant women with suspected invasive placenta accreta spectrum disorders in the second trimester / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To investigate the maternal and fetal outcomes of expectant treatment and early termination of pregnancy in pregnant women with suspected invasive placenta accreta spectrum disorders (PAS) in the second trimester. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on 51 pregnant women with suspected invasive PAS (ultrasound score ≥10) evaluated by ultrasound with gestational age <26 weeks and confirmed as invasive PAS by intraoperative findings or postoperative pathology in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2015 to January 2022. According to the informed choice of pregnant women and their families, they were divided into expectant treatment group (37 cases) and mid-term termination group (14 cases). The general clinical data and outcome indexes of the two groups were analyzed by χ2 test, Mann-Whitney U rank sum test, logistic regression and linear regression. Results: (1) General clinical data: among 51 pregnant women who were assessed as suspected invasive PAS by ultrasonography in the second trimester, invasive PAS was finally diagnosed by intraoperative findings and postoperative pathology, among which 46 cases (90%) were placenta percreta and 5 cases (10%) were placenta increta. (2) Outcome indicators: univariate analysis showed that there were no statistically significant differences in the intraoperative blood loss (median: 2 200 vs 2 150 ml), the proportion of blood loss >1 500 ml [73% (27/37) vs 9/14], the hysterectomy rate [62% (23/37) vs 8/14], the rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admission [78% (29/37) vs 9/14] between the expectant treatment group and the mid-term termination group (all P>0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the rate of intraoperative blood loss >1 500 ml (aOR=0.481, 95%CI: 0.017-13.958; P=0.670), hysterectomy (aOR=0.264, 95%CI: 0.011-6.569, P=0.417) and ICU admission (aOR=1.327, 95%CI: 0.048-36.882, P=0.867) between the two groups showed no statistical differences. (3) Outcome analysis: all 37 cases in the expectant treatment group had live births and no early neonatal death. Five pregnant women (14%, 5/37) in the expectant treatment group underwent emergency cesarean section in the course of expectant treatment. In the mid-term termination group, all pregnancies were terminated by operation, including 9 cases of hysterectomy and 5 cases of placental hysterectomy. There was 1 fetal survival (gestational age of termination: 27+4 weeks) and 13 fetal death in the mid-term termination group. Conclusions: Pregnant women who are diagnosed as suspected invasive PAS, especially those with placenta percreta, have the risk of uterine rupture and emergency surgery in the course of expectant treatment. However, early termination of pregnancy does not reduce the risk of intraoperative blood loss and hysterectomy.

Influence of thyroid function on the fetal fraction during second trimester of pregnancy / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To assess the influence of thyroid function on the fetal fraction (FF) during the second trimester of pregnancy.@*METHODS@#A total of 1 861 pregnant women undergoing non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and thyroxine function testing at 12 ~ 26 gestational weeks at the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University/Suzhou Municipal Hospital from January 2016 to December 2020 were selected as the study subjects. Univariate analysis and multivariate regression models were used to assess the correlation between free thyroxine 4 (FT4) levels and FF.@*RESULTS@#Univariate linear regression analysis indicated that the FF is correlated to the level of FT4 (b = 0.035, P < 0.001). The median fetal FF was 10.78% (IQR: 8.2%, 13.82%), and this has increased along with the level of FT4 from 10.58% at <= 12.0 pmol/L to 11.77% at > 16.0 pmol/L. After further adjustment of gestational age and body mass index (BMI), the FF showed an increase trend along with the increase of FT4 levels, and a trend test also showed a statistical significance (Ptrend < 0.001).@*CONCLUSION@#Maternal FF can be affected by the level of free thyroxine during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Tromboprofilaxis precoz y evolución en embarazadas con COVID-19 / Early thromboprophylaxis and evolution in pregnant women with COVID-19

Introducción: en marzo del año 2020 se declara Pandemia, por la aparición de un nuevo Coronavirus, el SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19). Las mujeres embarazadas presentan un riesgo mayor de presentar procesos tromboembólicos, por lo que se recomienda utilizar de manera profiláctica heparina, para prevención de procesos tromboembólicos durante la infección por SARS-CoV2. Objetivo: Describir la evolución de las embarazadas con infección por SARS-CoV2 con la utilización de heparina de bajo peso molecular, Enoxaparina, ajustada al peso de manera precoz. Metodología: estudio descriptivo prospectivo, observacional, de corte transversal. Resultados: en la evolución de 30 mujeres embarazadas con infección por SARS-CoV2, las edades más frecuentes corresponden a 31 a 35 años, mayor número de infectadas en el segundo trimestre del embarazo, el índice de masa corporal predominante en rango de sobrepeso y obesidad, la dosis de enoxaparina utilizada fue de 40 mg/día, ya que se ajustó al peso de la embarazada, las comorbilidades más frecuentes correspondieron al sobrepeso y obesidad, enfermedad hipertensiva del embarazo y diabetes gestacional, la sintomatología resultó muy variada, debido a las distintas variantes del virus, con más frecuencia la rinorrea, congestión nasal, tos, anosmia, disgeusia, cefalea, fiebre y dificultad respiratoria, y la mayoría de las embarazadas no estaban vacunadas. Conclusiones: ninguna de las 30 embarazadas que recibieron heparina de bajo peso molecular (Enoxapina), ajustada al peso, y de manera precoz, con infección por SARS.CoV2, falleció, ni requirió internación en Unidad de Terapia Intensiva. Una embarazada, fue internada por disnea moderada y saturación de oxígeno menor a 95%. Las restantes embarazadas tuvieron buena evolución en su domicilio, sin ninguna complicación

Introduction: in March 2020, a Pandemic was declared, due to the appearance of a new Coronavirus, SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19). Pregnant women have a higher risk of presenting thromboembolic processes, so it is recommended to use heparin prophylactically, to prevent thromboembolic processes during SARS-CoV2 infection. Objective: to describe the evolution of pregnant women with SARS-CoV2 infection with the early use of Enoxaparin, adjusted to the weight of low molecular weight heparin. Methodology: prospective, observational, cross-sectional descriptive study. Results: in the evolution of 30 pregnant women with SARS-CoV2 infection, the most frequent ages correspond to 31 to 35 years, the highest number of infected in the second trimester of pregnancy, the predominant body mass index in the range of overweight and obesity. , the dose of enoxaparin used was 40 mg/day, since it was adjusted to the weight of the pregnant woman, the most frequent comorbidities were overweight and obesity, hypertensive disease of pregnancy and gestational diabetes, the symptoms were highly varied, due to the different variants of the virus, more frequently rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, cough, anosmia, dysgeusia, headache, fever and respiratory distress, and most of the pregnant women were not vaccinated. Conclusions: none of the 30 pregnant women who received low molecular weight heparin (Enoxapine), adjusted for weight, and early, with SARS.CoV2 infection, died or required admission to the Intensive Care Unit. A pregnant woman was hospitalized due to moderate dyspnea and oxygen saturation less than 95%. The remaining pregnant women had a good evolution at home, without any complications

Risk factors for seroconversion of HIV among children exposed in the State of Santa Catarina, 2007-2017 / Fatores de risco para a soroconversão de crianças expostas ao HIV no Estado de Santa Catarina, 2007-2017

Abstract Objectives: to estimate the proportion of seroconversion cases among infants exposed to HIV and verify the risk factors associated. Methods: this was a historical cohort study conducted in the State of Santa Catarina between 2007 and 2017. The data were obtained from the Notifable Diseases Information System (SINAN - Portuguese acronym) that records HIV-infected pregnant women and HIV-exposed infants. The public health service monitored the infants from birth to 18 months of age to determine whether HIV seroconversion occurred. Results: a total of 5,554 HIV-infected pregnant women were included in the study (mean age 26.7±6.5 years). They were predominantly white, with poor education level, and were diagnosed with HIV until the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. A total of 4,559 records of HIV-exposed infants were screened, of which 130 cases (2.9%) of seroconversion were confrmed. Non-use of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy (OR=9.31, CI95%=5.97-14.52; p<0.001) and breastfeeding (OR=3.10, CI95%=1.34-7.20; p=0.008) were independent risk factors for seroconversion. Conclusions: these data demonstrate gaps in prenatal care, regarding adherence to treatment and monitoring of HIV-infected mothers, resulting in new cases of HIV among children, which could be avoided.

Resumo Objetivos: estimar a proporção de soroconversão da criança exposta ao HIV e verificar os fatores de risco associados, no período de 2007-2017 em Santa Catarina. Métodos: o delineamento utilizado foi de coorte histórica e os dados obtidos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) que registra as gestantes infectadas e as crianças expostas ao HIV. As crianças foram acompanhadas pelo serviço de saúde desde o nascimento até o 18º mês de vida, para determinar a ocorrência de soroconversão pelo HIV. Resultados: foram identificadas 5.554 gestantes infectadas pelo HIV com média de idade de 26,7±6,5 anos, predomínio da raça branca, baixa escolaridade e que receberam o diagnóstico para o HIV até o 2º trimestre gestacional. Foram incluídas 4.559 fichas de crianças expostas ao HIV, das quais 130 casos (2,9%) de soroconversão foram confrmados. O não uso de antirretroviral durante a gestação (OR=9,31, IC95%=5,97-14,52; p<0,001) e aleitamento materno (OR=3,10, IC95%=1,34-7,20; p=0,008) foram fatores de risco independentes para a soroconversão. Conclusões: esses dados demonstram lacunas na assistência pré-natal, quanto a adesão ao tratamento e acompanhamento de mães infectadas pelo HIV, resultando em casos novos de HIV entre crianças, que poderiam ser evitados.

The Effect of an educational Intervention on Anxiety of Pregnant Women: A Quasi-Experimental Study / El efecto de una intervención educativa sobre la ansiedad de las mujeres embarazadas: Un estudio cuasi experimental / O efeito de uma intervenção educativa na ansiedade de gestantes: um estudo quase experimental

Objective. The aim of study is the effect of educational intervention on anxiety of pregnant women. Methods. This quasi-experimental study is done on the pregnant women referring to family physician's offices in Gerash City, Iran. 62 women were selected and divided into 2 groups (control and intervention). In intervention group the anxiety reduction training classes were held as a group discussion in 4 weekly 90-minute sessions. Control group received routine care. The anxiety assessment completed by two groups before and after the educational intervention. The measurement instruments included a demographic information questionnaire and the short form of the Pregnancy Related Anxiety Questionnaire (PRAQ-17). Results. Comparison of the mean scores of different dimensions of pregnancy anxiety in the pre-intervention and post-intervention stages in the intervention group using paired t-test indicated a statistically significant difference in the dimensions Fear of childbirth, Fear of giving birth to a physically or mentally disabled child, Fear of mood swings and Fear of changes in marital relations (p < 0.05) in comparison with control group. Conclusion. Holding pregnancy-training classes using group discussion method is a good strategy to reduce anxiety in pregnant women. Therefore, it is recommended that this educational strategy classes be used with mothers from the second trimester of pregnancy in urban family physician centers or those referred to a nearby clinic.

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de una intervención educativa sobre la ansiedad de las mujeres embarazadas. Métodos. Estudio cuasi-experimental realizado con la participación de mujeres embarazadas que acuden a las consultas de los médicos de familia en la ciudad de Gerash, Irán. Se seleccionaron 62 mujeres y se dividieron en 2 grupos (control e intervención). En el grupo de intervención, las clases de entrenamiento para la reducción de la ansiedad se impartieron en forma de debate grupal en 4 sesiones semanales de 90 minutos. El grupo de control recibió atención rutinaria. Los dos grupos completaron la evaluación de la ansiedad antes y después de la intervención educativa. Los instrumentos de medición incluían un cuestionario de información sociodemográfica y la forma corta del Cuestionario de Ansiedad Relacionada con el Embarazo (PRAQ-17). Resultados. La comparación de las puntuaciones medias de las distintas dimensiones de la ansiedad durante el embarazo en las etapas previa y posterior a la intervención en el grupo de estudio indicó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en las dimensiones Miedo al parto, Miedo a dar a luz a un niño discapacitado física o mentalmente, Miedo a los cambios de humor, y Miedo a los cambios en las relaciones conyugales (p < 0.05), en comparación con el grupo de control. Conclusión. La realización de clases de formación durante el embarazo utilizando el método de discusión en grupo es una buena estrategia para reducir la ansiedad en las mujeres embarazadas. Por lo tanto, se recomienda que esta estrategia educativa se emplee con las madres desde el segundo trimestre del embarazo en los centros de medicina de familia o a aquellas que sean derivadas a la consulta externa.

Objetivo. Avaliar o efeito de uma intervenção educativa sobre a ansiedade em gestantes. Métodos. Estudo quase experimental realizado com a participação de gestantes atendidas em consultórios médicos de família na cidade de Gerash, Irã. 62 mulheres foram selecionadas e divididas em 2 grupos (controle e intervenção). No grupo de intervenção, as aulas de treinamento de redução de ansiedade foram ministradas como uma discussão em grupo e em 4 sessões semanais de 90 minutos. O grupo de controle recebeu cuidados de rotina. Ambos os grupos completaram a avaliação da ansiedade antes e após a intervenção educativa. Os instrumentos de medida incluíram um questionário de informações sociodemográficas e a versão curta do Questionário de Ansiedade Relacionada à Gravidez (PRAQ-17). Resultados. A comparação das pontuações médias das diferentes dimensões da ansiedade durante a gravidez nas etapas antes e após a intervenção no grupo de estudo indicou diferença estatisticamente significativa nas dimensões; medo do parto, medo de dar à luz um filho com deficiência física ou mental, medo de mudanças de humor e medo de mudanças nas relações conjugais (p < 0,05), em comparação com o grupo de controle. Conclusão. A realização de aulas de capacitação durante a gravidez utilizando o método de discussão em grupo é uma boa estratégia para reduzir a ansiedade em gestantes. Portanto, recomenda-se que essa estratégia educativa seja utilizada com mães a partir do segundo trimestre de gestação em centros de medicina de família ou com aquelas que são encaminhadas ao ambulatório.

Conocimiento y conductas sexuales de las mujeres gestantes / Knowledge and sexual behaviors of pregnant women / Conhecimento e comportamentos sexuais de mulheres grávidas

Introducción: escasos son los estudios que investigan el conocimiento sexual y las conductas sexuales de las mujeres dentro de un periodo tan importante como lo es el embarazo. En esta etapa se producen una serie de cambios que repercuten en su vida y por lo tanto en su sexualidad, por tal motivo es que surge realizar este trabajo de investigación. Objetivo: evaluar el nivel de conocimiento y conducta sexual durante la gestación, en un grupo de gestantes que acuden al Centro de Atención Periférica Número 8 perteneciente a la Dirección General de Atención Periférica de la Dirección Nacional de Sanidad de la Fuerzas Armadas. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un análisis observacional, descriptivo y prospectivo de cohorte transversal de los datos obtenidos a través de entrevistas realizadas a embarazadas. Se entrevistan gestantes que cursan los tres trimestres de embarazo y concurren a sus controles obstétricos en el periodo comprendido entre el 22 de abril y 22 de julio de 2021 que cumplen con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Para alcanzar el objetivo se aplicó un cuestionario con respuestas cerradas que consta de 11 preguntas basadas en conocimientos y conductas sexuales en gestantes. Resultados: el 52% de nuestras pacientes gestantes encuestadas tienen más de 30 años, 52% cursa su primera gestación y 51% un embarazo no deseado, pero si aceptado. El 61% de ellas dicen que el estar embarazadas afectó su actividad sexual, 39% refiere que son más satisfactorias las relaciones sexuales en el segundo trimestre, 78% manifiesta que el mantener relaciones sexuales no adelanta el parto, el 83% expresa que la posición menos recomendada es boca arriba, el 9% no saben dónde se localiza el tapón mucoso y el 100% de las encuestadas no tuvo educación sobre sexualidad en los controles prenatales. Conclusiones: durante el embarazo se producen cambios anatómicos, psicológicos y emocionales que provocan cambios en la actividad sexual. La educación que tienen sobre sexualidad es nula por lo que es recomendable la implementación de programas formativos de educación sexual en gestantes y sus parejas para afrontar una salud sexual plena.

Introduction: there are few studies that investigate the sexual knowledge and sexual behaviors of women in such an important period as pregnancy. During this stage, a series of changes take place that have repercussions in their lives and therefore in their sexuality, which is the reason why this research work has been carried out. Objective: to evaluate the level of knowledge and sexual behavior during pregnancy in a group of pregnant women attending the Peripheral Care Center Number 8 belonging to the General Directorate of Peripheral Care of the National Health Directorate of the Armed Forces. Materials and methods: an observational, descriptive and prospective cross-sectional cohort analysis of the data obtained through interviews with pregnant women was carried out. Pregnant women in the three trimesters of pregnancy and attending their obstetric check-ups between April 22 and July 22, 2021 who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were interviewed. To achieve the objective, a questionnaire with closed answers consisting of 11 questions based on knowledge and sexual behaviors in pregnant women was applied. Results: 52% of our pregnant patients surveyed were over 30 years of age, 52% were in their first pregnancy and 51% had an unwanted pregnancy, but accepted it. 61% of them said that the pregnancy was unwanted. Sixty-one percent of them say that being pregnant affected their sexual activity, 39% say that sexual relations are more satisfactory in the second trimester, 78% say that having sexual relations does not advance labor, 83% say that the least recommended position is on the back, 9% do not know where the mucus plug is located and 100% of the respondents had no education on sexuality in prenatal checkups. Conclusions: During pregnancy there are anatomical, psychological and emotional changes that cause changes in sexual activity. The education they have about sexuality is null, so it is advisable to implement sex education programs for pregnant women and their partners in order to achieve full sexual health.

Introdução: há poucos estudos que investiguem o conhecimento sexual e o comportamento sexual das mulheres durante um período tão importante como a gravidez. Nesta fase, ocorre uma série de mudanças que têm repercussões em suas vidas e, portanto, em sua sexualidade, razão pela qual este estudo de pesquisa foi realizado. Objetivo: avaliar o nível de conhecimento e comportamento sexual durante a gravidez em um grupo de mulheres grávidas que freqüentam o Centro de Atenção Periférica Número 8 pertencente à Direção Geral de Atenção Periférica da Direção Nacional de Saúde das Forças Armadas. Materiais e métodos: foi realizada uma análise observacional, descritiva e prospectiva de coorte transversal dos dados obtidos através de entrevistas com mulheres grávidas. Foram entrevistadas mulheres grávidas no terceiro trimestre de gestação e que compareceram aos check-ups obstétricos entre 22 de abril e 22 de julho de 2021, que preenchiam os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Para alcançar o objetivo, foi aplicado um questionário com respostas fechadas que consiste em 11 perguntas baseadas em conhecimentos e comportamentos sexuais em mulheres grávidas. Resultados: 52% de nossas pacientes grávidas pesquisadas tinham mais de 30 anos de idade, 52% estavam grávidas pela primeira vez e 51% tiveram uma gravidez indesejada, mas aceitaram-na. 61% deles dizem que estar grávida afetou sua atividade sexual, 39% dizem que as relações sexuais são mais satisfatórias no segundo trimestre, 78% dizem que ter relações sexuais não antecipa o trabalho de parto, 83% dizem que a posição menos recomendada é na parte de trás, 9% não sabem onde o plugue de muco está localizado e 100% dos entrevistados não tiveram nenhuma educação sobre sexualidade nos check-ups pré-natais.

Associations between plasma n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and gestational diabetes mellitus in the second trimester / 中华预防医学杂志

Objective: To examine the associations between plasma n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the second trimester and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among Chinese pregnant women. Methods: Based on data from the Tongji-Shuangliu Birth Cohort enrolled from 2017 to 2019 in the Shuangliu Maternal and Child Health Hospital, it conducted a case-control study among 269 GDM cases who were diagnosed by 75 g oral glucose tolerance test, and 538 non-GDM controls matched at a 1∶2 ratio on maternal age and gestational weeks. The age range of the 807 women was 18-40 years. Fasting plasma n-3 PUFAs were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in the second trimester (24-28 weeks). Participants were categorized into quartiles (Q1-Q4) of plasma n-3 PUFAs based on distributions in the control group. Conditional logistic regression models were applied to estimate the associations between plasma n-3 PUFAs and GDM. Results: The median (interquartile) relative concentrations of plasma n-3 PUFA C22∶5n-3 was significantly lower in women with GDM 0.87 (0.72, 1.07) compared with women without GDM 0.94 (0.75, 1.19)(P=0.001). Plasma n-3 PUFA C22∶5n-3 was inversely associated with GDM, with an OR (95%CI) of 0.75 (0.62-0.90) for each SD increase of relative concentration. Compared with the Q1 group, the OR values and 95%CIs of Q2, Q3, and Q4 groups were 0.97 (0.62-1.51), 0.72 (0.45-1.15), and 0.54 (0.32-0.90), respectively (Ptrend<0.05). However, there were no significant associations of C18∶3n-3, C20∶5n-3, C22∶6n-3, and total n-3 PUFAs with GDM. Conclusion: Plasma n-3 PUFA C22∶5n-3 was inversely associated with GDM during the second trimester.

Application of genomic copy number variation detection technology in prenatal diagnosis of 7617 pregnant women with serological screening abnormalities during the second trimester of pregnancy / 中华医学遗传学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the genomic variation characteristics of fetal with abnormal serological screening, and to further explore the value of copy number variation (CNV) detection technology in prenatal diagnosis of fetal with abnormal serological screening.@*METHODS@#7617 singleton pregnant women who underwent amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis solely due to abnormal Down's serological screening were selected. According to the results of serological screening, the patients were divided into high risk group, borderline risk group and single abnormal multiple of median (MOM) group. CMA and CNV-Seq were used to detect the copy number variation of amniotic fluid cell genomic DNA and combined with amniotic fluid cell karyotype analysis for prenatal diagnosis. Outpatient revisit combined with telephone inquiry was used for postnatal follow-up.@*RESULTS@#Among 7617 amniotic fluid samples, aneuploidy was detected in 138cases (1.81%) by CMA and CNV-Seq, 9 cases of aneuploid chimerism were detected by amniotic fluid cell karyotype analysis, and 203 cases of fetus carrying pathogenic and likely pathogenic CNV (P/LP CNV) were detected, the variant of uncertain significance (VUS) was detected in 437 cases (5.7%), the overall abnormal detection rate was 10.33%. The detection rate of aneuploidy by CMA and CNV-Seq in three group were 123 cases (2.9%), 13 cases (1.3%) and 2 cases (0.4%), respectively,and showing no significant difference (χ 2=7.469, P=0.024). The detection rate of pathogenic and likely pathogenic CNV in three group were 163cases (2.6%); 24 cases (2.6%) and 16 cases (3.3%), respectively, and showing no significant difference (χ 2=0.764, P=0.682). The CMA reported 2.9% (108/3729)P/LP CNV, and CNV-seq reported 2.4% (95/3888)P/LP CNV, both tests showed similar detective capabilities (χ 2=1.504, P=0.22).The most popular P/LP CNV in this cohort were Xp22.31 microdeletion, 16p13.11 microduplication /microdeletion, 22q11.21 microduplication /microdeletion. In fetuses with P/LP CNV CNV, 59 fetuses were terminated pregnancy, and 32 of 112 fetuses born had abnormal clinical manifestations. Non-medically necessary termination of pregnancy occurred in 11 fetuses carrying VUS CNV, 322 fetuses carrying VUS CNV were born, 4 of them presented abnormal clinical manifestations.@*CONCLUSION@#Compared with the traditional chromosome karyotype, CMA and CNV-Seq can improve the detection rate of pathogenic and likely pathogenic CNV. CMA and CNV-seq can be used for first tier diagnosis of pregnant women in the general population with abnormal Down's serological screening.

Accuracy of mid-trimester ultrasound scan in foetal gender determination at the University College Hospital, Ibadan Nigeria

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the accuracy of prenatal sonographic gender determination during foetal anomaly ultrasound and the overall sensitivity pattern in our institution.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 520 consenting pregnant women who presented for foetal anomaly scans within a one-year period in our institution. The diagnostic accuracy of gender determination during the anomaly and delayed scans were determined by comparing the sonographic gender with the birth gender and calculating sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Descriptive statistics, frequencies, Mc-Nemar chi-square test were used at 5% level of significance. Results: The mean maternal age was 31.51 ±5.02years. Of the 520 consenting pregnant women studied, 16(6.0%) women were having twin gestation. Four hundred and ninety-seven (92.7%) genders were determined during foetal anomaly scan. The accuracy of the ultrasonography (US) examination performed by the resident doctors was 98.02% while the accuracy of the scan performed by the consultant radiologists was 100%. Overall, the accuracy of the gender determination on ultrasound was 98.69%. The general specificity and sensitivity of the US were 98.71 % and 98.68% respectively while the positive and negative predictive value were 99.01 % and 98.29% respectively. Conclusion: The accuracy of ultrasound examination in detecting foetal gender during foetal anomaly ultrasound is high with equally high predictive values and therefore it is recommended as a mandatory variable during anomaly scans. There is need for continuous training of resident doctors or operators in lower cadre to improve their competency in foetal gender determination.

Prolapso uterino na gestação: relato de caso / Uterine prolapse during pregnancy: a case report

O prolapso de órgão pélvico é um evento raro durante a gestação, cuja conduta obstétrica deve ser individualizada e sempre direcionada para evitar complicações na gestação. O relato de caso é de uma mulher de 25 anos de idade, no segundo trimestre de sua segunda gestação, que apresentou prolapso de grau 4. Na ultrassonografia obstétrica, verificou-se feto em bom desenvolvimento e líquido amniótico normal. A conduta adotada foi a utilização do pessário vaginal e recomendação de repouso com acompanhamento até a resolução da gestação. Houve três episódios de queda acidental do pessário, que foi reintroduzido pela própria paciente, sem complicações, permanecendo até próximo ao momento do parto cesáreo. O prolapso desapareceu e não houve recidiva no pós-parto. Esta publicação é relevante por evidenciar que, seguindo as condutas recomendadas pela literatura para a presente condição ginecológica, se pode reduzir intercorrências obstétricas e viabilizar o parto do neonato.(AU)

Pelvic organ prolapse is a rare event during pregnancy, and obstetric management must be individualized and always aimed at avoiding complications in pregnancy. The case report is of a 25-year-old woman in the second trimester of her second pregnancy presented grade 4 prolapse. The obstetric ultrasound revealed good fetal development and normal amniotic fluid. The course of action implemented was the use of a vaginal pessary and recommendation of rest with monitoring up to pregnancy resolution. There were three episodes of accidental fall of the pessary, which was reintroduced by the patient herself without complications and was removed only when cesarean delivery was near. The prolapse disappeared and there was no recurrence during the postpartum period. This publication is relevant because it shows that by following the procedures recommended in the literature for this gynecological condition, it is possible to reduce obstetric complications and enable the delivery of the newborn.(AU)

Gravidez heterotópica espontânea: implicações de um diagnóstico tardio / Spontaneous heterotopic pregnancy: implications of a late diagnosis

A gestação heterotópica é uma entidade rara, principalmente se resultante de concepção natural. O diagnóstico é ultrassonográfico, porém a gestação intrauterina concomitante contribui para a dificuldade propedêutica. Neste relato de caso, a detecção foi tardia, a ultrassonografia não identificou a gestação heterotópica e apenas durante a avaliação intraoperatória, por meio de uma cirurgia de emergência devido a choque hemorrágico, houve o reconhecimento. A suspeita de uma gestação heterotópica deve ser sempre aventada quando sinais clínicos típicos (sangramento, dor abdominal) estão presentes, mesmo na ausência de fatores de risco ou imagens anômalas na ecografia. Assim, uma intervenção precoce menos invasiva pode ser realizada, reduzindo a morbimortalidade materna e do feto intrauterino. Este relato de caso destaca uma situação incomum dentro dessa patologia rara: diagnóstico tardio, apenas no segundo trimestre de gestação, sem evidência prévia ultrassonográfica, certificada apenas durante o intraoperatório. O manejo cirúrgico preciso permitiu a manutenção da gravidez intrauterina.(AU)

Heterotopic pregnancy is a rare entity, especially if it is resulted from natural conception. The diagnosis is ultrasonographic, but the concomitant intrauterine pregnancy contributes to the propaedeutic difficulty. In this case report, the detection was late, the ultrasonography did not identify heterotopic pregnancy and, only during intraoperative evaluation through emergency surgery, exploratory laparotomy, there was recognition. The suspicion of a heterotopic pregnancy should always be raised when typical clinical signs (bleeding, abdominal pain) are present, even in absentia of risk factors or anomalous images on ultrasound. Thus, a less invasive early intervention can be performed, reducing maternal and intrauterine fetus morbimortality. This case report highlights an unusual situation within this rare pathology: late diagnosis, only in the second trimester of pregnancy, without previous ultrasound evidence, certified only during the intraoperative period. Precise surgical management allowed the maintenance of intrauterine pregnancy.(AU)

Síndrome de transfusão feto-fetal: revisão de literatura / Twin-twin transfusion syndrome: a literature review

A síndrome de transfusão feto-fetal é uma complicação das gestações gemelares monocoriônicas. Além de ocorrer comumente no segundo trimestre, apresenta elevada morbimortalidade fetal e neonatal, e taxas de incidência que variam de 10 a 15% dentre todas as gravidezes monocoriônicas. O objetivo deste estudo é realizar uma revisão de literatura a partir de levantamento bibliográfico acerca dos principais aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e terapêuticos da STFF. A base de dados PubMed foi consultada, uma vez que os termos de pesquisa utilizados foram "síndrome de transfusão feto-fetal", "diagnóstico" e "tratamento". Obtiveram-se sessenta e oito artigos de revisão de literatura e/ou revisão sistemática, sendo que apenas vinte e nove foram selecionados após aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade. Em relação à fisiopatologia, a síndrome é explicada pela transferência sanguínea direta entre os fetos gemelares através de anastomoses arteriovenosas placentárias, conceitualmente determinando a existência de um feto receptor e outro doador. Embora as gestantes comumente se apresentam assintomáticas, as repercussões clínicas fetais costumam ser graves. O diagnóstico é exclusivamente ultrassonográfico e deve ser feito o mais precocemente possível, ressaltando-se a importância da detecção da corionicidade da gestação gemelar, além de acompanhamento ultrassonográfico seriado para rastreio do desenvolvimento da síndrome. Apesar de ainda não haver protocolo de tratamento bem estabelecido, a ablação dos vasos placentários a laser é tida como o padrão-ouro dentre as opções terapêuticas disponíveis. Apresenta elevada taxa de sobrevida de pelo menos um dos fetos e baixos índices de sequelas neurológicas neonatais, podendo ser realizada somente até a 26ª semana de gestação.

Twin-twin transfusion syndrome is a complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies. In addition to commonly occurring in the second trimester, it has high fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality and incidence rates ranging from 10 to 15% among all monochorionic pregnancies. This study aims to perform a literature review based on a bibliographic survey about the main epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of TTTS. The PubMed database was consulted, as the search terms used were "twin-twin transfusion syndrome", "diagnosis", and "treatment". Sixty-eight literature review and systematic review articles were obtained, and only twenty-nine were selected after applying the eligibility criteria. About the pathophysiology, the syndrome is explained by direct blood transfer between the twin fetuses through placental arteriovenous anastomoses, determining the existence of a recipient fetus and another donor. Although pregnant women are usually asymptomatic, the clinical fetal repercussions are often severe. Diagnosis is exclusively ultrasonographic and must be made as early as possible, emphasizing the importance of detecting chorionicity in twin pregnancy, in addition to serial ultrasonographic follow-up to track the development of the syndrome. Although there is still no well-established treatment protocol, endoscopic laser ablation of vascular anastomoses is considered the gold standard among the available therapeutic options. It has a high survival rate for at least one of the fetuses and low rates of neonatal neurological sequelae and can only be performed until the 26th week of pregnancy.

Colestasis intrahepática del embarazo: forma de presentación temprana y relación con la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C: reporte de casos / Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: early presentation and relationship with infection by the hepatitis C virus: case reports / Colestase intra-hepática da gravidez: forma de apresentação precoce e sua relação com a infecção por vírus da hepatite C: relato de casos

Se describe los casos de tres pacientes a quien se les realiza diagnóstico de colestasis intrahepática del embarazo (CIE) de aparición temprana. En dos de ellos el diagnóstico se relacionó con infección por el virus de la hepatitis C (VHC). Reconocer que esta enfermedad puede presentarse de manera temprana en el embarazo y su relación con la infección por el VHC es fundamental para hacer un diagnóstico oportuno de ambas enfermedades y tomar las conductas terapéuticas adecuadas, mejorando así el pronóstico materno y fetal.

It is of great importance to acknowledge that this disease can occur early in pregnancy and that its relationship with HCV infection is a key point for a prompt diagnosis, allowing taking timely appropriate therapeutic decisions, aimed at improving the fetal prognosis.

Descrevemos os casos de três pacientes com diagnóstico de colestase intra-hepática da gravidez de início precoce. Em dois deles o diagnóstico estava relacionado à infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (VHC). Reconhecer que esta doença pode se manifestar precocemente na gravidez e sua relação com a infecção pelo VHC é fundamental para fazer um diagnóstico oportuno de ambas as doenças e assumir condutas terapêuticas adequadas, melhorando assim o prognóstico materno e fetal.

Colecistectomía laparoscópica durante el embarazo, experiencia de un hospital universitario del noreste de México / Laparoscopic cholecystectomy during pregnancy, experience from a University Hospital in northeast Mexico

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar la seguridad de la colecistectomía laparoscópica durante el embarazo, reportando complicaciones y desenlaces obstétricos y perinatales en nuestra institución. Materiales y Método: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional. Se incluyeron pacientes embarazadas, con diagnóstico de patología biliar sometidas a colecistectomía laparoscópica. Se describieron variables sociodemográficas, obstétricas, complicaciones o muerte posoperatoria. Resultados: Se realizaron 46 colecistectomías laparoscópicas, edad media de 25 años; 82,6% cursaban el segundo trimestre de embarazo; mostrando tasa de complicaciones de 4,4% directamente relacionadas con el procedimiento sin mortalidad materna. Discusión: Se asocia a la cirugía biliar a una tasa elevada de complicaciones durante el embarazo, sin embargo, existe mayor evidencia que apoya la idea de la intervención temprana en enfermedad biliar sintomática, con un mayor riesgo de muerte fetal bajo manejo conservador que bajo un abordaje quirúrgico, así como mayor tasa de recurrencia. Se ha demostrado que la cirugía no aumenta el riesgo de mortalidad para la madre y el feto y su retraso puede resultar en un incremento de morbilidad a corto y largo plazo. Conclusiones: Observamos una baja tasa de complicaciones asociadas al procedimiento quirúrgico, así como una nula mortalidad materna.

Aim: To evaluate the safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy during pregnancy, reporting complications and obstetric and perinatal outcomes in our institution. Materials and Method: Retrospective, observational study. Pregnant patients with a diagnosis of biliary pathology undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included. Sociodemographic, obstetric variables, complications or postoperative death were described. Results: 46 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed, mean age 25 years; 82.6% were in the second trimester of pregnancy; showing a complication rate of 4.4% directly related to the procedure with zero maternal mortality. Discussion: Biliary surgery is associated with a high rate of complications during pregnancy, however, there is more evidence supporting the idea of early intervention in symptomatic biliary disease, with a higher risk of fetal death under conservative management than under a laparoscopic approach, 14 as well as a higher recurrence ratecd. Surgery has been shown not to increase the risk of mortality for the mother and the fetus and its delay may result in an increase in morbidity in the short and long term. Conclusión: We observed a low rate of complications associated with the surgical procedure, as well as no maternal mortality.

The impact of routine transvaginal ultrasound measurement of the cervical length on the prediction of preterm birth: A retrospective study in a tertiary hospital / O impacto da medição por rotina do comprimento cervical por ecografia transvaginal na predição de parto pré-termo: Um estudo retrospetivo num hospital terciário

Abstract Pretermbirth (PTB) is a major obstetric problem associated with high rates of neonatal morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of PTB has not changed in the last decade; thus, the establishment of a screening test and effective treatment are warranted. Transvaginal ultrasoundmeasurement of the cervical length (TUCL) has been proposed as an effective method to screen pregnant women at a higher risk of experiencing PTB. Objective To evaluate the applicability and usefulness of second-trimester TUCL to predict PTB in a cohort of Portuguese pregnant women. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional cohort study including all singleton pregnant women who performed their second-trimester ultrasound (between weeks 18 and 22þ6 days) from January 2013 to October 2017 at Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João. Results Our cohort included 4,481 women. The prevalence of spontaneous PTB was of 4.0%, with 0.7% occurring before the 34th week of gestation. The mean TUCL was of 33.8mm,and percentiles 3, 5 and 10 corresponded toTUCLs of 25.0mm, 27.0mmand 29.0mmrespectively. The multiple logistic regression analysis, including maternal age, previous PTB and cervical surgery showed a significant negative association between TUCL and PTB, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.92 (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.90-0.95; p<0.001). The use of a TUCL of 20mm is the best cut-off, when compared with the 25-mm cut-off, improving the prediction of risk. Conclusion The present study showed an inverse association between TUCL and PTB, and that the inclusion of other risk factors like maternal age, previous PTB and cervical surgery can improve the screening algorithm. Furthermore, it emphasizes that the TUCL cut-off that defines short cervix can differ according to the population.

Resumo O parto pré-termo (PPT) é uma grande complicação obstétrica que se associa a elevadas taxas de morbimortalidade neonatal. A sua prevalência não tem alterado na última década, sendo esencial determinar uma forma de rastreio e tratamento eficaz. A medição ecográfica transvaginal do comprimento cervical tem sido proposta como um método eficaz de rastreio das grávidas com risco aumentado de PPT. Objetivo Avaliar a aplicabilidade e utilidade da medição ecográfica transvaginal do comprimento cervical na previsão de PPT numa amostra de grávidas portuguesas. Método Estudo de coorte retrospectivo incluindo todas as grávidas com gestação unifetal que realizaram ecografia do 2° trimestre (de 18 a 22semanasþ6 dias) no Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João entre janeiro de 2013 e outubro de 2017. Resultados A nossa amostra incluiu 4.481 mulheres. A prevalência de PPT espontâneo foi de 4,0%, sendo que 0,7% ocorreu antes das 34 semanas de gestação. A média do comprimento cervical por ecografia transvaginal foi 33,8mm, e os percentis 3, 5 e 10 da amostra corresponderam a comprimentos cervicais de 25,0mm, 27,0mm e 29,0mm, respetivamente. A regressão logística múltipla, que incluiu a idade materna, PPT anterior e antecedentes de conização, demonstrou uma associação estatisticamente significativa entre o comprimento cervical e o risco de PPT, com um risco relativo de 0,92 (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 0.90-0.95; p<0.001). A utilização de um valor de referência de comprimento cervical de 20mm, quando comparado com o valor de referência de 25 mm, melhora a previsão do risco de PPT. Conclusão Este estudo demostra uma associação entre o comprimento cervical avaliado por ecografia tranasvaginal e o risco de PPT, e salienta que a inclusão de outros fatores de risco, como idade materna, PPT anterior e antecedentes de conização podem melhorar o algoritmo de rastreio. Realça ainda que o valor de comprimento cervical utilizado para definir "colo curto" varia de acordo com a população em estudo.

Transmediastinal gunshot wound in a pregnant patient with stable hemodynamics

Abstract Transmediastinal gunshot wounds (TGWs) may lead to life-threatening injuries of vital organs such as large vessels, the esophagus, and lungs. Although they are not commonly encountered in pregnant women, additional caution should be given to these patients. Physical examination for the diagnosis and the choice of treatment modality contain controversial points in hemodynamically stable patients, and resuscitation has excessive importance due to physiological changes in pregnancy. We present a hemodynamically stable 26-week pregnant woman brought to the emergency department for TGW. She had a 1-cm diameter of bullet entrance hole on the right anterior 4th intercostal space, 2 cm lateral to the sternum, and a 3-cm diameter exit hole on the right posterior 12th intercostal space on the midscapular line.With our conservative approach, she had an uncomplicated pregnancy period, and gave birth to a healthy baby at term.