Fatores associados à deficiência de vitamina D em mulheres gestantes e lactantes / Factores asociados a la deficiencia de vitamina D en mujeres embarazadas y lactantes / Factors associated with vitamin d deficiency in pregnant and lactatingwomen

Introdução: A deficiência de vitamina D durante a gestação e a lactação pode repercutir negativamente no desenvolvimento fetal e infantil, devido seu papel fundamental nos sistemas imunológico, cardíaco, ósseo, muscular e neural. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão de literatura para integrar estudos que evidenciam a deficiência de vitamina D em gestantes e lactantes, e os fatores de risco associados a essa carência. Metodologia: Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico entre agosto e outubro de 2021, com atualização entre outubro e novembro de 2022 através de pesquisas às bases Pubmed e Scielo, bem como às listas de referências dos artigos selecionados. Foram empregados os descritores consumo alimentar, vitamina D, deficiência de vitamina D, gestantes e lactantes, usando-se o operador booleano AND para a associação entre eles. Como critérios de inclusão foram adotados o tipo de estudo (epidemiológicos, ensaios clínicos e revisões integrativa e sistemática), o idioma (espanhol, inglês e português) e o período de publicação (2010 a 2022). Resultados: Evidenciou-se que existem vários fatores de riscos para a inadequação do status de vitamina D em gestantes e lactantes como a baixa exposição da pele à luz solar e fatores relacionados (uso excessivo de protetor solar, menor tempo de atividades ao ar livre, clima, religião e hábitos culturais, maior escolaridade);a pigmentação mais escura da pele; o baixo consumo alimentar de vitamina D e variáveis associadas; a menor idade materna; o primeiro trimestre gestacional; a primiparidade e o excesso de tecido adiposo. Conclusões: Em gestantes e lactantes, a carência de vitamina D associa-se a distintos fatores, com destaque principalmente para a baixa exposição à luz solar, a pigmentação mais escura da pele e o excesso de tecido adiposo, sendo de extrema importância que sejam abordados com cautela, visando ações voltadas a variáveis modificáveis, de modo a auxiliar na redução da hipovitaminose D nestes grupos (AU).

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and breastfeeding can have a negative impact on fetal and infant development due to its fundamental role in the immune, cardiac, bone, muscular and neural systems. Objective: To conduct a literature review to integrate studies which show the Vitamin D deficiency in pregnant andlactating women, and the risk factors associated with this deficiency. Methodology: A bibliographic survey was carried out between August and October 2021, with an update between October and November 2022 through searches in the Pubmed and Scielo databases, as well as the reference lists of the selected articles. The descriptors food consumption, vitamin D, vitamin D deficiency, pregnant and lactating women were used, using the Boolean operator AND for the association between them. The type of study (epidemiological, clinical trials and integrative and systematic reviews), language (Spanish, English and Portuguese) and publication period (2010 to 2022) was adopted as inclusion criteria.Results:It was shown that there are several risk factors for inadequate vitamin D status in pregnant and lactating women, such as low skin exposure to sunlight and related factors (excessive use of sunscreen, less time spent outdoors, climate, religion and cultural habits, higher education); darker skin pigmentation; low dietary intake of vitamin D and associated variables; the lowest maternal age; the first gestational trimester; primiparity and excess adipose tissue.Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency in pregnant and lactating women is associated with different factors, witha main emphasis on low exposure to sunlight, darker skin pigmentation and excess adipose tissue. Furthermore, it is extremely important that these factors are approached with caution, implementing actions aimed at modifiable variables in order to help reduce hypovitaminosis D in these groups (AU).

Introducción: La deficiencia de vitamina D durante el embarazo y la lactancia puede tener un impacto negativo en el desarrollo fetal e infantil, por su papel fundamental en los sistemas inmunológico, cardíaco, óseo, muscular y neural. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión bibliográfica para integrar estudios que evidencien la deficiencia de vitamina D en mujeres embarazadas y lactantes, y los factores de riesgo asociados. Metodología:Se realizó un levantamiento bibliográfico entre agosto y octubre de 2021, con actualizaciones entre octubre y noviembre de 2022 mediante búsquedas en las bases de datos Pubmed y Scielo, así como en las listas de referencias de los artículos seleccionados. Se utilizaron los descriptores consumo de alimentos, vitamina D, deficiencia de vitamina D, gestantes y lactantes, utilizándose el operador booleano AND para la asociación entre ellos. Se adoptaron como criterios de inclusión el tipo de estudio (epidemiológicos, clínicos, revisiones integradoras y sistemáticas), idioma (español, inglés y portugués) y período de publicación (2010 a 2022).Resultados: Existen varios factores de riesgo para un estado inadecuado de vitamina D en mujeres embarazadas y lactantes, como la baja exposición de la piel a la luz solar y factores relacionados (uso excesivo de protector solar, menor tiempo al aire libre, clima, religión y hábitos culturales, educación más alta); pigmentación de la piel más oscura; baja ingesta dietética de vitamina D y variables asociadas; la edad materna más baja; el primer trimestre gestacional; Primiparidad y exceso de tejido adiposo. Conclusiones:En mujeres embarazadas y lactantes, el déficit de vitamina D se asocia a diferentes factores, especialmente la baja exposición solar, la pigmentación de la piel más oscura y el exceso de tejido adiposo, y es de suma importancia abordarlos con precaución, apuntando a acciones dirigidas a variables modificables, con el fin de ayudar a reducir la hipovitaminosis D en estos grupos (AU).

Diabetes mellitus e saúde materna durante a pandemia de covid-19 no Brasil / Diabetes mellitus and maternal health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil / Diabetes mellitus y salud materna durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Brasil

A pandemia do novo coronavírus (covid-19) é um grave problema de saúde pública. Adicionalmente, a hiperglicemia na gestação (diabetes preexistente, diabetes diagnosticado pela primeira vez na gestação e diabetes mellitus gestacional) é uma das complicações maternas mais frequentes na população obstétrica. A sobreposição desses problemas pode refletir na saúde materna e fetal. Desse modo, o objetivo deste estudo é reunir evidências acerca da saúde materna de mulheres com hiperglicemia na gestação durante a pandemia de covid-19 no Brasil. Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa, em que a fonte de dados compreendeu artigos publicados até maio de 2023 nas bases de dados Medline, via PubMed, Lilacs e WHO COVID-19 Research Database. Foram listados 167 artigos e, após a aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, cinco estudos foram incluídos, compreendendo 1.469 gestantes e puérperas com diabetes mellitus gestacional ou diabetes preexistente. Quanto à saúde materna, os principais desfechos foram relacionados à infecção por covid-19, como gravidade da doença e risco de morte. Além disso, foi observada maior prevalência de transtornos mentais comuns, como ansiedade e depressão. Portanto, a saúde materna de mulheres com hiperglicemia na gestação foi impactada negativamente durante a pandemia de covid-19 no país.

The new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a major public health issue. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy (pre-existing diabetes, diabetes first diagnosed in pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus) is a frequent maternal complication in the obstetric population. Their overlap may impact maternal and fetal health. Thus, this narrative review gathered evidence on the maternal health of women with gestational hyperglycemia during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Articles published until May 2023 in the Medline (via PubMed), Lilacs and WHO COVID-19 Research Database online databases were eligible. Bibliographic search retrieved a total of 167 articles, of which five remained after applying the inclusion criteria, resulting in a sample of 1,469 pregnant and postpartum women with gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes. Regarding maternal health, the main outcomes were related to COVID-19 infection, such as disease severity and risk of death. Additionally, results showed a higher prevalence of common mental disorders such as anxiety and depression. In conclusion, the maternal health of women with gestational hyperglycemia was negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

La pandemia del nuevo coronavirus (COVID-19) es un grave problema de salud pública. Además, la hiperglucemia durante el embarazo (diabetes preexistente, diabetes diagnosticada por primera vez durante el embarazo y diabetes mellitus gestacional) es una de las complicaciones maternas más frecuentes en la población obstétrica. La superposición de estos problemas puede afectar la salud materna y fetal. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio es recopilar evidencia sobre la salud materna de las mujeres con hiperglucemia en el embarazo durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Brasil. Se trata de una revisión narrativa, y la fuente de datos comprendió artículos publicados hasta mayo de 2023 en las bases de datos MEDLINE vía PubMed, LILACS y WHO COVID-19 Research Database. Se enumeró un total de 167 artículos y, después de aplicar los criterios de elegibilidad, se incluyeron cinco estudios con 1.469 mujeres embarazadas y puérperas con diabetes gestacional o diabetes preexistente. En cuanto a la salud materna, los principales resultados se relacionaron con el contagio por COVID-19, como la gravedad de la enfermedad y el riesgo de muerte. Además, se observó una mayor prevalencia de trastornos mentales comunes, como la ansiedad y la depresión. Por lo tanto, la salud materna de las mujeres con hiperglucemia durante el embarazo se ha visto afectada negativamente durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Brasil.

Nutritional composition of human milk and its association with maternal and perinatal factors / Composição nutricional do leite humano e sua associação com fatores maternos e perinatais

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of maternal and perinatal factors on the nutritional composition of human milk. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2018 and January 2020, with 181 donors selected in Tertiary Health Units of the Unified Health System — from one collection station and five Human Milk Banks. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire. To be fit to be a donor in a Human Milk Banks and produce mature milk were the eligibility criteria to participate in the study. We excluded milk samples with Dornic acidity above 8° D. The dependent variables were the macronutrients of human milk (i.e., carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and total energy), that were analyzed using spectroscopy with the Miris Human Milk Analyzer™. The maternal and perinatal factors were the independent variables. Results: Women with pre-gestational obesity and gestational weight gain above the recommendation showed a lower protein concentration compared to eutrophic women (median=0.8, interquartile range (IQR): 0.7-0.9 vs. median=0.8, and IQR: 0.8-1.0) and those with adequate gestational weight gain (median=0.8, IQR: 0.7-0.9 vs. median=0.9, and IQR: 0.8-1.0), respectively. The other analyzed factors (i.e., maternal habits, comorbidities, and perinatal factors) were not associated with the nutritional composition of human milk. Conclusions: The assessment of factors associated with the nutritional composition of human milk is extremely important to assist postpartum care. Pre-gestational obesity and inadequate gestational weight gain were the only factors statistically associated with the nutritional composition of human milk as they impacted its protein content.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a influência de fatores maternos e perinatais na composição nutricional do leite humano. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado entre novembro de 2018 e janeiro de 2020, com 181 doadoras selecionadas em Unidades Terciárias de Saúde do Sistema Único de Saúde de um Posto de Coleta e cinco Bancos de Leite Humano. Foram coletados dados das variáveis maternas e dos recém-nascidos por meio de questionário padronizado. Estar apta para ser doadora em um Banco de Leite Humano e produzir leite maduro foram os critérios de elegibilidade para participar do estudo. As amostras de leite com acidez Dornic acima de 8° D foram excluídas. Os macronutrientes do leite humano, variáveis dependentes (carboidratos, proteínas, lipídeos, energia total) foram analisados pela técnica de espectroscopia de transmissão no infravermelho médio com o Miris Human Milk Analyzer™. Os fatores maternos e perinatais foram as variáveis independentes. Resultados: Mulheres com obesidade pré-gestacional e ganho de peso gestacional acima do recomendado apresentaram menor concentração proteica em relação às eutróficas (mediana=0,8, intervalo interquartil [IQR]: 0,7-0,9 vs. mediana=0,8, IQR: 0,8-1,0) e aquelas com ganho de peso gestacional adequado (mediana=0,8, IQR: 0,7-0,9 vs. mediana=0,9, IQR: 0,8-1,0), respectivamente. Os demais fatores analisados (hábitos maternos, comorbidades, fatores perinatais) não se associaram com a composição nutricional do leite humano. Conclusões: A avaliação dos fatores associados à composição nutricional do leite humano é de extrema importância para auxiliar os cuidados pós-parto. A obesidade pré-gestacional e o ganho de peso gestacional inadequado foram os únicos fatores estatisticamente associados com a composição nutricional do leite humano por terem impactado o seu teor de proteína.

Itinerários terapêuticos de mulheres quilombolas do norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil / Therapeutic itineraries of quilombola women in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil

Resumo Os quilombolas são grupos étnico-raciais de ancestralidade negra e tiveram seus territórios consolidados no Brasil em regiões com acesso difícil e distante dos grandes centros. O objetivo desse estudo é conhecer o itinerário terapêutico (IT) adotado por mulheres quilombolas em comunidades tradicionais localizadas no norte do estado de Minas Gerais. Trata-se de um estudo com abordagem qualitativa com o modelo teórico utilizando o sistema de cuidados à saúde de Arthur Kleinman. O estudo se deu em 23 comunidades quilombolas do norte de Minas Gerais. Foram entrevistadas 40 mulheres quilombolas, com idades entre 25 e 89 anos. A análise dos dados foi realizada seguindo os IT. Emergiram unidades de análise que foram agrupadas em três categorias: as mulheres quilombolas e o significado da saúde e do cuidado; o sistema de cuidado profissional nas comunidades quilombolas; e itinerário de cuidados nas situações vivenciadas pelas mulheres. O itinerário terapêutico das comunidades se mostra relacionado principalmente às ações de medicina popular. Foi possível observar ainda que existem fragilidades em relação à atenção à saúde devido a fatores como dificuldade de acesso aos serviços institucionalizados.

Abstract Quilombolas are ethnic-racial groups, of black ancestry, and had their territories consolidated in Brazil in regions with difficult access and far from large centers. The objective of this study is to know the therapeutic itinerary (IT) adopted by quilombola women in traditional communities located in the North of the state of Minas Gerais. This is a qualitative study with the theoretical model using the Arthur Kleinman health care system. The study scenario was 23 quilombola communities in northern Minas Gerais. Forty quilombola women aged between 25 and 89 years were interviewed. Data analysis was performed following the IT. Units of analysis emerged that were grouped into three categories: quilombola women and the meaning of health and care; the professional care system in quilombola communities; and route of care in situations experienced by women. The therapeutic itinerary of the communities is mainly related to the actions of popular medicine. It was also possible to observe that there are weaknesses in relation to health care due to factors such as difficulty of access to institutionalized services.

National survey regarding obstetricians' perspective of obstetric emergencies in Brazil

Abstract Introduction The maternal mortality rate in developing countries, such as Brazil, has significantly increased since 2020. Obstetric Emergencies (OE) account for 72.5% of these deaths. A national survey was conducted in Brazil to evaluate how gynecologists and obstetricians deal with OE and identify the main difficulties regarding theoretical/practical knowledge and structural resources. Methods An electronic questionnaire assessing resource availability, health teams, institutional protocols, and provision of OE training courses was completed by Brazilian obstetricians. Results More than 90 % of the questionnaire respondents reported treating a pregnant and/or puerperal patient with severe morbidity and that their health network has human resources, trained professionals, and structural resources required for this type of care. However, few respondents participate in continuing education programs (36 %) or specific training for the medical team (61.41 %). The implementation rates of obstetric risk identification protocols (33.09 %), a rapid response team (46.54 %), and boxes and emergency cart assembly teams (71.68 %) were determined. Conclusion A high Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) may be related to disorganized healthcare systems, low implementation of risk classification protocols for the care of severe maternal and fetal conditions, and lack of access to continued/specific training programs. The Brazilian MMR is multifactorial. According to obstetricians, Brazilian health services include care teams, essential medications, obstetric centers, and clinical analysis laboratories, though they lack systematized processes and permanent professional training for qualified care of OE.

Percepção materna do cuidado à recém-nascidos com baixo peso: revisão sistemática qualitativa

Introdução: O peso ao nascer tem grande influência sobre o desenvolvimento global da criança, que por sua vez sofre influência direta dos cuidados maternos. Objetivo: Identificar na literatura científica a percepção materna sobre o cuidado de recém-nascidos com baixo peso. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática de estudos qualitativos conduzida em conformidade com as diretrizes metodológicas do Instituto Joanna Briggs. A pesquisa foi realizada entre abril de 2021 e março de 2023 nas bases de dados PubMed, MedLine, BVS, Scielo, EMBASE e Web of Science, com os descritores: "percepção materna", "baixo peso ao nascer" e "cuidado da criança", em diferentes combinações. Incluíram-se estudos em português, inglês e espanhol, publicados entre 2013 e 2023, que tratassem do cuidado materno de recém-nascidos com baixo peso no contexto hospitalar ou domiciliar. Os resultados foram categorizados de acordo com a análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Foram identificados 1129 estudos, dos quais apenas 11 foram incluídos nesta revisão, nas seguintes categorias: sentimentos maternos, necessidades e desafios do cuidado, aleitamento materno, vínculo mãe-bebê e apoio social. Considerações finais: Mães de recém-nascidos com baixo peso experimentam insegurança e problemas gerais de adaptação que afetam os cuidados para suprimento das necessidades essenciais da criança. Apoio familiar e de profissionais de saúde podem reforçar a segurança materna e contribuir para o cuidado integral de recém-nascidos com baixo peso.

Introducción: El peso al nacer tiene una gran influencia en el desarrollo global del niño, el cual a su vez está directamente influido por los cuidados maternos. Objetivo: Identificar en la literatura científica la percepción de la madre sobre el cuidado del niño nacido con bajo peso. Métodos: Esta es una revisión sistemática de estudios cualitativos realizados de acuerdo con las pautas metodológicas del Instituto Joanna Briggs. La investigación fue realizada entre abril de 2021 y marzo de 2023 en las bases de datos PubMed, MedLine, BVS, Scielo, EMBASE y Web of Science, con los descriptores: "percepción materna", "bajo peso al nacer" y "cuidado del niño", en diferentes combinaciones. Se incluyeron estudios en portugués, inglés y español, publicados entre 2013 y 2023, que abordaran el cuidado materno de niños nacidos con bajo peso en el contexto hospitalario o domiciliario. Los resultados se clasificaron según el análisis de contenido. Resultados: Se identificaron 1129 estudios, de los cuales solo 11 fueron incluidos en esta revisión, en las siguientes categorías: sentimientos maternos, necesidades y desafíos de cuidado, lactancia materna, vínculo madre-hijo y apoyo social. Consideraciones finales: Las madres de niños nacidos con bajo peso experimentan inseguridad y problemas generales de adaptación que afectan los cuidados para satisfacer las necesidades esenciales del niño. El apoyo familiar y el apoyo de los profesionales de la salud pueden reforzar la seguridad materna y contribuir a la atención integral en salud de los niños nacidos con bajo peso.

Introduction: Birth weight has a great influence on the child's global development, which in turn is directly influenced by maternal care. Objective: To identify in the scientific literature the mother's perception about the care of children born with low birth weight. Methods: This is a systematic review of qualitative studies conducted in accordance with the methodological guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute. The research was carried out between April/2021 and March/2023 in the databases: PubMed, Medline, VHL, SciELO, EMBASE and Web of Science, with the descriptors: maternal perception, low birth weight and child care, in different combinations. Studies in Portuguese, English and Spanish, published between 2013 and 2023, that addressed the maternal care of children born with low birth weight in the hospital or home context were included. Results were categorized according to content analysis. Results: 1129 studies were identified, of which only 11 were included in this review, in the following categories: maternal feelings, care needs and challenges, breastfeeding, mother-infant bonding and social support. Final considerations: Mothers of children born with low birth weight experience insecurity and general adaptation problems that affect care to meet the child's essential needs. Family support and support from health professionals can reinforce maternal security and contribute to the comprehensive health care of low birth weight children.

Factors associated with hospitalizations and deaths of pregnant women from Paraná due to COVID-19: a cross-sectional study / Fatores associados a hospitalizações e óbitos de gestantes paranaenses por COVID-19: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the factors associated with hospitalization in the ward and intensive care unit (ICU), and with death from COVID-19 in pregnant women with confirmed cases. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study, carried out with data from pregnant women with a confirmed case of COVID-19 from the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System and the Paraná's state COVID-19 notification system. The association between the independent and dependent variables (hospitalization in the ward and ICU, and death) was investigated using the Poisson regression model with robust variance. Results: 4,719 pregnant women comprised the study population. 9.6 and 5.1% were hospitalized in wards and ICU, respectively. 1.9% died. There was an association between advanced maternal age and hospitalization in wards (PR=1.36; 95%CI 1.10-1.62) and ICU (PR=2.25; 95%CI 1.78-2.71), and death (PR=3.22; 95%CI 2.30-4.15). An association was found between the third trimester and hospitalization in wards (PR=5.06; 95%CI 2.82-7.30) and ICU (PR=6.03; 95%CI 3.67-8.39) and death (PR=13.56; 95%CI 2.90-24.23). The second trimester was associated with ICU admission (PR=2.67; 95%CI 1.36-3.99). Pregnant women with cardiovascular disease had a higher frequency of hospitalization in wards (PR=2.24; 95%CI 1.43-3.05) and ICU (PR=2.66; 95%CI 1.46-3.87). Obesity was associated with ICU admission (PR=3.79; 95%CI 2.71-4.86) and death (PR=5.62; 95%CI 2.41-8.83). Conclusions: Advanced maternal age, the end of the gestational period and comorbidities were associated with severe COVID-19.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar os fatores associados à hospitalização em enfermaria e unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI), e ao óbito pela COVID-19 em gestantes com caso confirmado. Métodos: Pesquisa observacional, transversal, realizada com dados de gestantes com caso confirmado para COVID-19 provenientes do Sistema de Informação de Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe e do Sistema Estadual Notifica COVID-19, do Paraná. Investigou-se a associação entre variáveis independentes e dependentes (hospitalização em enfermaria e UTI, e óbito) pelo modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Resultados: 4.719 gestantes compuseram a população do estudo; 9,6 e 5,1% foram hospitalizadas em enfermaria e UTI, respectivamente; 1,9% evoluíram para óbito. Houve associação entre a idade materna avançada e internação em enfermaria (RP=1,36; IC95% 1,10-1,62) e UTI (RP=2,25; IC95% 1,78-2,71), e óbito (RP=3,22; IC95% 2,30-4,15). Verificou-se associação entre o terceiro trimestre gestacional e hospitalização em enfermaria (RP=5,06; IC95% 2,82-7,30) e UTI (RP=6,03; IC95% 3,67-8,39) e óbito (RP=13,56; IC95% 2,90-24,23). O segundo trimestre associou-se à internação em UTI (RP=2,67; IC95% 1,36-3,99). Gestantes com cardiopatia apresentaram maior frequência de hospitalização em enfermaria (RP=2,24; IC95% 1,43-3,05) e UTI (RP=2,66; IC95% 1,46-3,87). A obesidade foi associada à admissão em UTI (RP=3,79; IC95% 2,71-4,86) e ao óbito (RP=5,62; IC95% 2,41-8,83). Conclusão: A idade materna avançada, o final do período gestacional e comorbidades foram fatores associados a quadros graves de COVID-19.

Maternal health surveillance panel: a tool for expanding epidemiological surveillance of women's health and its determinants / Painel de vigilância da saúde materna: uma ferramenta para ampliação da vigilância epidemiológica da saúde das mulheres e seus determinantes

ABSTRACT Objective: To present the methodology used in the development of two products for maternal health surveillance and its determinants and discuss their possible uses. Methods: Based on a theoretical model of the determinants of maternal death and databases of Brazilian health information systems, two free products were developed: an interactive panel "surveillance of maternal health" and an educational material "Aparecida: a story about the vulnerability of Brazilian women to maternal death", both available on the website of the Brazilian Obstetric Observatory. Results: More than 30 indicators were calculated for the period 2012-2020, containing information on socioeconomic conditions and access to health services, reproductive planning, prenatal care, delivery care, conditions of birth and maternal mortality and morbidity. The indicators related to severe maternal morbidity in public hospitalizations stand out, calculated for the first time for the country. The panel allows analysis by municipality or aggregated by health region, state, macro-region and country; historical series analysis; and comparisons across locations and with benchmarks. Information quality data are presented and discussed in an integrated manner with the indicators. In the educational material, visualizations with national and international data are presented, aiming to help in the understanding of the determinants of maternal death and facilitate the interpretation of the indicators. Conclusion: It is expected that the two products have the potential to expand epidemiological surveillance of maternal health and its determinants, contributing to the formulation of health policies and actions that promote women's health and reduce maternal mortality.

RESUME Objetivo: Apresentar a metodologia utilizada no desenvolvimento de dois produtos para a vigilância da saúde materna e seus determinantes e discutir as suas possíveis utilizações. Métodos: A partir de modelo teórico dos determinantes do óbito materno e bases de dados dos sistemas de informação em saúde brasileiros, foram desenvolvidos dois produtos gratuitos: um painel interativo denominado "Vigilância da saúde materna" e um material educativo chamado "Aparecida: uma história sobre a vulnerabilidade da mulher brasileira à morte materna", ambos disponíveis no site do Observatório Obstétrico Brasileiro. Resultados: Foram calculados mais de 30 indicadores para o período 2012-2020, contendo informações sobre condições socioeconômicas e de acesso a serviços de saúde, planejamento reprodutivo, assistência pré-natal, assistência ao parto, condições de nascimento e mortalidade e morbidade materna. Destacam-se os indicadores relacionados à morbidade materna grave em internações públicas, calculados pela primeira vez para o país. O painel permite análises por município ou agregadas por região de saúde, unidade da federação, macrorregião e país; análises de série histórica; e comparações entre localidades e com padrões de referência. Dados de qualidade da informação são apresentados e discutidos de forma integrada aos indicadores. No material educativo, visualizações com dados nacionais e internacionais são apresentadas, visando auxiliar na compreensão dos determinantes do óbito materno e facilitar a interpretação dos indicadores. Conclusão: Espera-se que os produtos tenham o potencial de ampliar a vigilância epidemiológica da saúde materna e seus determinantes, contribuindo para a formulação de políticas e ações de saúde que promovam a saúde das mulheres e reduzam a mortalidade materna.

Nationwide study of in-hospital maternal mortality in Ecuador, 2015-2022 / Estudio a nivel nacional de la mortalidad materna intrahospitalaria en Ecuador, 2015-2022 / Estudo nacional sobre mortalidade materna intra-hospitalar no Equador, 2015-2022

ABSTRACT Objective. This study aimed to analyze estimates of in-hospital delivery-related maternal mortality and sociodemographic factors influencing this mortality in Ecuador during 2015 to 2022. Methods. Data from publicly accessible registries from the Ecuadorian National Institute of Statistics and Censuses were analyzed. Maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) were calculated, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to obtain unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios. Results. There was an increase in in-hospital delivery-related maternal deaths in Ecuador from 2015 to 2022: MMRs increased from 3.70 maternal deaths/100 000 live births in 2015 to 32.22 in 2020 and 18.94 in 2022. Manabí province had the highest rate, at 84.85 maternal deaths/100 000 live births between 2015 and 2022. Women from ethnic minorities had a higher probability of in-hospital delivery-related mortality, with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 9.59 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 6.98 to 13.18). More maternal deaths were also observed in private health care facilities (AOR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.4 to 2.84). Conclusions. Efforts to reduce maternal mortality have stagnated in recent years. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, an increase in maternal deaths in hospital settings was observed in Ecuador. Although the pandemic might have contributed to the stagnation of maternal mortality estimates, socioeconomic, demographic and clinical factors play key roles in the complexity of trends in maternal mortality. The results from this study emphasize the importance of addressing not only the medical aspects of care but also the social determinants of health and disparities in the health care system.

RESUMEN Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las cifras estimadas de mortalidad materna intrahospitalaria asociada al parto y los factores sociodemográficos que influyen en ella en Ecuador en el período 2015-2022. Métodos. Se analizaron datos de los registros de acceso público del Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos de Ecuador. Se calcularon las razones de mortalidad materna (RMM) y se utilizaron modelos de regresión logística bivariados y multivariados para obtener los cocientes de posibilidades sin ajustar y ajustados. Resultados. Entre el 2015 y el 2022, se observó un aumento de las muertes maternas intrahospitalarias asociadas al parto en Ecuador: la RMM aumentó de 3,70 muertes maternas por 100 000 nacidos vivos en el 2015 a 32,22 en el 2020 y 18,94 en el 2022. En la provincia de Manabí se registró la cifra más alta, con 84,85 muertes maternas por 100 000 nacidos vivos entre el 2015 y el 2022. Las mujeres pertenecientes a minorías étnicas tuvieron una mayor probabilidad de muerte intrahospitalaria por causas relacionadas con el parto, con un cociente de posibilidades ajustado (aOR, por su sigla en inglés) de 9,59 (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC del 95%]: 6,98 a 13,18). También se observó una mayor mortalidad materna en los establecimientos de salud privados (aOR: 1,99, IC del 95%: 1,4 a 2,84). Conclusiones. Los esfuerzos para reducir la mortalidad materna se han estancado en los últimos años. Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, se observó un aumento de las muertes maternas en el 2020 en entornos hospitalarios en Ecuador. Si bien la pandemia podría haber contribuido a que las cifras estimadas de mortalidad materna se estancaran, los factores socioeconómicos, demográficos y clínicos desempeñan un papel clave en la complejidad de las tendencias de la mortalidad materna. Los resultados de este estudio destacan la importancia de abordar no solo los aspectos médicos de la atención, sino también los determinantes sociales de la salud y las disparidades en el sistema de atención de salud.

RESUMO Objetivo. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar estimativas de mortalidade materna relacionada ao parto intra-hospitalar e os fatores sociodemográficos que influenciaram esse tipo de mortalidade no período de 2015 a 2022 no Equador. Métodos. Foram analisados dados de registros de acesso público do Instituto Nacional de Estatísticas e Censos do Equador. Foram calculadas razões de mortalidade materna (RMM), com o uso de regressão logística bivariada e multivariada para obter razões de chance não ajustadas e ajustadas. Resultados. Houve um aumento nas mortes maternas relacionadas ao parto intra-hospitalar no Equador entre 2015 e 2022: as RMM aumentaram de 3,70 mortes maternas/100 mil nascidos vivos em 2015 para 32,22 em 2020 e 18,94 em 2022. A província de Manabí teve a taxa mais alta, com 84,85 mortes maternas/100 mil nascidos vivos entre 2015 e 2022. Mulheres de minorias étnicas tiveram maior probabilidade de mortalidade relacionada ao parto intra-hospitalar, com uma razão de chances ajustada (RCa) de 9,59 (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 6,98 a 13,18). Também foram observadas mais mortes maternas em estabelecimentos de saúde privados (RCa: 1,99, IC95%: 1,4 a 2,84). Conclusões. As inciativas para reduzir a mortalidade materna estagnaram nos últimos anos. Durante a pandemia de COVID-19 em 2020, foi observado um aumento nas mortes maternas em hospitais do Equador. Embora a pandemia possa ter contribuído para a estagnação das estimativas de mortalidade materna, fatores socioeconômicos, demográficos e clínicos desempenharam papéis fundamentais na complexidade das tendências de mortalidade materna. Os resultados deste estudo destacam a importância de abordar não apenas os aspectos clínicos da atenção, mas também os determinantes sociais da saúde e as disparidades do sistema de saúde.

Vivência e expectativas de doulas em região brasileira de fronteira / Experience and expectations of doulas in a Brazilian border region

RESUMO O estudo buscou compreender a vivência e as expectativas das doulas que atuam ou atuaram em dois municípios de região de fronteira: Foz do Iguaçu e Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil. Tratou-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa pautada no referencial da Fenomenologia Social. A coleta das informações deu-se por entrevistas com roteiro semiestruturado em língua portuguesa. As entrevistas foram feitas on-line. Os resultados foram classificados em seis categorias: motivação para tornar-se doula, conhecimento sobre o papel da doula, o cotidiano das doulas, abarcando as subcategorias de experiências exitosas e desafios da atividade na região de fronteira, a invisibilidade da doulagem, as expectativas enquanto doulas frente ao cenário obstétrico e o esperado da sua atuação profissional. O estudo permitiu compreender a vivência das doulas e o conhecimento do papel da sua função no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), no setor privado e em partos domiciliares, evidenciando a importância da atuação multiprofissional. Foram ponderadas resistências no cenário obstétrico por desconhecimento dos profissionais da assistência sobre o papel da doula. Em relação à atuação na região de fronteira, as doulas relataram o acompanhamento de mulheres paraguaias no Brasil e, com menos frequência, no Paraguai. As barreiras culturais e linguísticas foram destacadas como obstáculos para o exercício profissional em outro país.

ABSTRACT The study sought to understand the experience and expectations of doulas who worked or worked in two municipalities in the border region: Foz do Iguaçu and Cascavel, Paraná, Brazil. This was a qualitative research based on the framework of Social Phenomenology. The collection of information took place through interviews with a semi-structured script in Portuguese. The interviews were done online. The results were classified into six categories: motivated to become a doula, knowledge about the role of the doula, the daily life of the doulas, covering the subcategories of successful experiences and challenges of the activity in the border region, the invisibility of the doula, the expectations as doulas facing the obstetric scenario and what is expected of their professional performance. The study made it possible to understand the experience of doulas and knowledge of the role of their role in the Unified Health System (SUS), in the private sector and in home births, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary action. Resistance in the obstetric scenario was considered due to the lack of knowledge on the part of care professionals about the role of the doula. Regarding work in the border region, the doulas reported accompanying Paraguayan women in Brazil and, less frequently, in Paraguay. Cultural and linguistic barriers were highlighted as reasons that make professional practice in another country unfeasible.

Analysis of the access of pregnant women to the first programmatic dental appointment: an ecological study

Abstract To plan and evaluate public health policies, it is important to understand the influence of social factors on the quality and access to dental care. This study aimed to verify the potential association between the indicators of pregnant women receiving dental care and the social and health care indicators of cities in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. A cross-sectional ecological study was performed with secondary data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics and the Health Care Department of the Ministry of Health regarding the cities of Minas Gerais. The study analyzed three health care indicators (such as more than six prenatal, the proportion of syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus tests, and oral health coverage) and four social indicators (average monthly wage, illiteracy rate, proportion of employed population, and rate of adequate sanitary sewerage). Bivariate analysis (Mann-Whitney test) and logistic regression were performed using Jamovi software. All of the indicators analyzed were associated with the access of pregnant women to dental care. However, in the regression models, only health care indicators remained statistically significant. Thus, although social indicators are associated with the access of pregnant women to dental appointments, access to primary health care and the teamwork of primary health care teams may overcome social inequality in the access of pregnant women to dental care.

Improved efficiency in the management of newborns with infectious risk factors by the sepsis risk calculator and clinical observation

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficiency of the sepsis risk calculator and the serial clinical observation in the management of late preterm and term newborns with infectious risk factors. Method Single-center, observational, two-phase cohort study comparing the rates of neonates born ≥35 weeks' gestation, ≥2000 g birthweight, and without major congenital anomalies, who were screened and/or received antibiotics for early-onset neonatal sepsis risk at our center during two periods, before (January/2018-June/2019) and after (July/2019-December/2020) the implementation of the sepsis risk calculator. Results A total of 1796 (Period 1) and 1867 (Period 2) patients with infectious risk factors were included. During the second period, tests to rule out sepsis were reduced by 34.0 % (RR, 95 %CI): 0.66 (0.61, 0.71), blood cultures by 13.1 %: 0.87 (0.77, 0.98), hospital admissions by 13.5 %: 0.86 (0.76, 0.98) and antibiotic administration by 45.9 %: 0.54 (0.47, 0.63). Three cases of early-onset neonatal sepsis occurred in the first period and two in the second. Clinical serial evaluation would have detected all true cases. Conclusions The implementation of a sepsis risk calculator in the management of newborns ≥35 weeks GA, ≥2000 g birthweight, without major congenital anomalies, with infectious risk factors is safe and adequate to reduce laboratory tests, blood cultures, hospital admissions, and antibiotics administration. Serial clinical observation, in addition, could be instrumental to achieve or even improve this goal.

Entre a busca por assistência e sua efetivação: peregrinação de gestantes e puérperas com quadro de Near Miss Materno / Between the search for assistance and its realization: the peregrination of pregnant and postpartum women with Maternal Near Miss

Resumo Este estudo, de caráter misto e sequencial exploratório, objetivou identificar padrões relacionados a trajetória de mulheres gestantes e puérperas que evoluíram para situações de risco, desde sua chegada em um primeiro serviço de assistência até sua admissão em uma maternidade terciária. A fase quantitativa analisou 1.703 prontuários e registros de internação de mulheres assistidas em três maternidades terciárias da Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza, no Ceará, entre 2010 e 2019. Na fase qualitativa, realizada entre janeiro e setembro de 2020, participaram 14 mulheres sobreviventes ao Near Miss Materno (NMM), por meio da Entrevista Narrativa Autobiográfica de Schütze. Os achados desvelam como atrasos relacionados aos profissionais e ao sistema de saúde contribuíram para a peregrinação de gestantes e puérperas e, consequentemente, para os quadros de NMM. A peregrinação destas mulheres associa-se a problemas nas estruturas da rede de atenção e dos serviços de saúde. Assim, fazem-se necessários o uso de ferramentas de acompanhamento da qualidade do serviço prestado pelos profissionais de saúde, os processos assistenciais bem estabelecidos, as estruturas físicas e as Redes de Atenção à Saúde (RAS), que suportem o seguimento desses processos.

Abstract This mixed-method and sequential exploratory study aims to identify patterns related to the trajectory of pregnant and puerperal women who evolved to risk situations, from arrival in a first care service to admission to a tertiary maternity hospital. The quantitative phase analyzed 1,703 medical records and hospitalization records of women assisted in three tertiary maternity hospitals in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza, Ceará, from 2010 to 2019. The qualitative phase was conducted from January to September 2020 with 14 women survivors of Maternal Near Miss (MNM), using Schütze's Autobiographical Narrative Interview. The findings reveal how delays related to professionals and the health system contributed to the pilgrimage of pregnant and postpartum women and, consequently, to the MNM cases. The peregrination of these women is associated with problems in the structures of the Care Network and the services. Thus, it becomes necessary to use tools to monitor the quality of the service provided by health professionals and to provide well-established care processes, physical structures, and the healthcare networks that support the follow-up of these processes.

Sociodemographic, behavioral, obstetric, and healthcare factors associated with low weight at birth: a case-control study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Understanding social determinants is crucial for implementing preventive strategies, especially for low birth weight (LBW)—a public health issue that severely increases the risk of morbimortality in children. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with LBW among newborns, assisted by the Brazilian Unified Health System. DESIGN AND SETTING: It analyzed data from newborns and their mothers. The sample was selected by convenience from users of the public health system in Francisco Beltrão (Paraná, Brazil). METHODS: Cases (n = 26) were babies weighing ≤ 2,500 g and controls (n = 52) > 2,500 g. All babies were assessed and paired by sex and date of birth in a 1:2 proportion. Statistical power was computed a posteriori, revealing a power of 87% (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Strong and significant differences were found in the bivariate analysis, in which the number of current smokers or those who quit during pregnancy was higher among mothers of babies with LBW. Moreover, the gestational weeks were lower among these cases. Logistic regression models indicated that the gestational week (odds ratio [OR] = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.05-0.54) and fathers' educational level (high school or above; OR = 0.22, 95% CI:0.06-0.99) were related to lower chances of low birth weight. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm previous investigations on LBW's multi-causality, showing that the gestational week could reduce up to 82% chances of a baby being born with ≤ 2,500 g. Its association with paternal education underlines the importance of comprehensive policies to protect newborns.

Assessment of the implementation of respectful maternity care charter in North Central Nigeria (Federal Capital Territory and Kwara State): study protocol

Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) charter is one of the tools for ensuring quality of care in maternity services. Nigeria is a signatory to RMC charter; therefore, the charter is expected to be the standard of care. However, in Nigeria and other countries, reports of disrespectful maternity care abound; this discourages women from accessing facility-birth. Therefore, to improve the quality of care towards increase in uptake, it is expedient to assess the level of implementation of the RMC charter by key stakeholders for sustainability, impact and scale-up of charter-compliant maternity care in Nigeria. The study aims to assess the implementation of RMC charter in North-central Nigeria. The study is a mixed-method, cross-sectional study; the expected participants are key stakeholders in healthcare (Healthcare workers, Healthcare Administrators, Project Managers, Policy makers) in North-Central Nigeria (Federal Capital Territory and Kwara state). A multistage sampling technique would be used to enroll participants from 18 healthcare facilities (Primary, Private, Secondary and Tertiary) in rural and urban areas and Ministries of Health officials at local and state government levels. Expected outcomes: The study is expected to provide information on the current status of knowledge and implementation of the RMC charter in Nigeria. It would also identify the enablers and barriers to the implementation process and provide evidence for effective scale-up of the process in Nigeria. The outcomes will be widely disseminated to healthcare workers, health administrators and decision-makers in healthcare services through post-study meetings, conference presentations, journal publications and policy briefs for effective RMC charter implementation in Nigeria.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of an intensive maternal care unit in a tertiary hospital in the Philippines

Objectives@#This is the first study that provides an overview of the characteristics of a specialized Intensive Maternal Care Unit (IMU) that caters to obstetric-related conditions in the Philippines. This study aims to describe the different kinds of cases admitted into this facility, the different medical and surgical interventions employed, length of hospital stay, and maternal and fetal outcomes of these patients.@*Methods@#This is a cross-sectional descriptive study based on a chart review of medical records and admission charts of patients admitted to the Intensive Maternal Unit of a tertiary hospital in Manila from January 2017 to December 2019.@*Results@#There were a total of 17,185 obstetric admissions from 2017-2019. There were a total of 841 admissions (4%) into the Intensive Maternal Unit, with an average of 280 admissions per year. The average length of Intensive Maternal Unit stay was 10.46 days and the average length of hospital stay was 12.98 days. Maternal outcomes were the following: 56.89% were discharged undelivered while 38.92% delivered on their initial admission. The maternal mortality rate was 2.39% among those admitted to the IMU. Among those discharged undelivered, 43% were re-admitted, 6% were admitted twice, and 4% were admitted three times. The most common reason for admission was pregnancy-related hypertensive diseases (34%). Blood transfusion (2.4%), the use of ventilator support (0.6%), and the use of inotropic drugs (0.6%) were the major medical interventions. Cesarean section was the most common surgical intervention, seen in 54.49% of patients. Most neonates were admitted to the neonatal ICU (23.95%), at an average pediatric age of 33 weeks, with an average length of stay in the Neonatal ICU of 12.33 days.@*Conclusion@#Pregnant women are a special group of patients with different needs compared to the general patient population. Pregnancy-associated hypertensive disease is the most common cause of admission to the IMU and hospitals should be able to cater to these patients who will present in their institutions, as this may lead to poor maternal and neonatal outcomes. An Intensive Care Unit dedicated to complicated obstetric care in institutions is recommended to cater to high-risk pregnancies.

Maternal and perinatal health indicators from 2019 to 2022: Data from the POGS Nationwide Statistics System / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Objectives@#The objectives of this study were to present maternal and perinatal health indicators for the years 2019–2022. @*Methodology@#This is a cross-sectional review that analyzed data on maternal and perinatal health indicators, generated from submissions of POGS-accredited hospitals (training and service) from January 2019 to December 2022. The data were compared to the national data obtained from official public documents published by the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2022 and 2023.@*Results@#The number of member hospitals has steadily increased over the years, and compliance rates have been consistently over 85%. The total number of registered cases and live births declined in 2020 and 2021, but has increased to prepandemic levels in 2022. The primary cesarean section (CS) rates remained above 20%, with the highest rate noted in 2021 (25.5%). The top three-most common indications for primary CS were dysfunctional labor, fetal distress, and malpresentation. Stillbirth, perinatal, and maternal mortality rates showed an increase from 2019 to 2022, with peak rates registered for the year 2021. The top five causes of maternal death are: medical complications, hemorrhage, hypertension, infection, and others (unspecified). The case fatality rate among pregnant patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection was 1.18%.@*Conclusion@#From 2019 to 2021, there was a decline in the number of registered cases and live births, and an increase in the primary CS rates, maternal mortality ratio, perinatal death rates, and stillbirth rates. This may be explained by the prevailing social, health, and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during these years.

Clinical outcomes of Gravidocardiac patients in Silliman University Medical Center from January 2015 to December 2019: A retrospective study

Background@#Cardiac disease increases morbidity and mortality in pregnant patients. This is found in both developing countries and underdeveloped countries. Cardiovascular demand increases with pregnancy, causing additional stress on a diseased heart. This then poses a greater risk of complications; thus, specialized care involving an Obstetric-Gynecologist and a Cardiologist is warranted. The Modified WHO Classification of Maternal Cardiovascular Risk, CARPREG, and CARPREG II predict risk among gravidocardiac patients and corresponding needed medical attention perinatally. Little data has been known on the clinical outcomes of pregnancy among gravidocardiac patients in the Philippines. This study aims to gauge the clinical outcomes of gravidocardiac patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Dumaguete City.@*Methods@#A retrospective, cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among all gravidocardiac patients admitted for labor and delivery between January 2015 and December 2019. A chart review of the cases satisfying the inclusion criteria was done. Data gathered were tabulated, and a Chi-Square was used to assess if there was a significant relationship between the cardiac condition and the mode of delivery, duration of pregnancy, maternal outcomes, and fetal outcomes.@*Results@#Cardiac lesions noted among gravidocardiac patients include mitral valve prolapse, which comprised the majority of cases, patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defect, mitral valve regurgitation, aortic valve regurgitation, atrial septal defect, and peripartum cardiomyopathy. Pregnancies were mainly carried to term with vaginal delivery as the primary mode of birth. Maternal outcomes were generally favorable, with no deaths recorded. Fetal outcomes were variable among cases, and fetal mortality was recorded at 3.92%. A significant relationship was seen between maternal cardiac condition and maternal outcomes of the pregnancies.@*Conclusion@#Among pregnant patients with cardiac conditions, maternal outcomes of pregnancy can be predicted in association with the cardiac condition. There is a great need to educate the public on the need for proper perinatal care when a cardiac condition in pregnancy is detected.

A Prospective Cohort Study Investigating Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Mosul, Iraq, among Women with Grand Multiparity

@#Introduction: This prospective case-control study aimed to compare the incidence of fetomaternal complications between grand multiparous women under the age of 35 and pregnant women with low parity in the same age group. Methods: The study was conducted at Al-khansaa and Al-Batool Teaching Hospitals from October 1, 2020, to June 1, 2021. One hundred pregnant women with singleton pregnancies in all three trimesters, aged between 18 and 34 years, were selected from the outpatient clinic and the ward. The participants were divided into two groups: Group A consisted of 50 grand multiparous women (with five or more deliveries), and Group B comprised 50 pregnant women with low parity (2-4 pregnancies) in the same age group. Results: The study found that gestational diabetes, anemia, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, cesarean section rate, postpartum hemorrhage, and neonatal intensive care unit admissions were significantly higher in the grand multiparity group compared to the low parity group. The mean Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were significantly lower in Group A compared to Group B. Conclusion: The findings suggest that grand multiparity among younger mothers poses additional risks to pregnancy outcomes, including increased rates of gestational diabetes, anemia, postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean section, and neonatal intensive care unit admissions, especially in cases with inadequate antenatal care. The findings of this study underscore the need for further research in this area. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with grand multiparity among younger mothers can lead to more targeted interventions and improved outcomes.