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AJOG Global Reports Nov 2022Despite its worldwide use, reviews of oxytocin for labor augmentation include mainly studies from high-income countries. Meanwhile, oxytocin is a potentially harmful... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Despite its worldwide use, reviews of oxytocin for labor augmentation include mainly studies from high-income countries. Meanwhile, oxytocin is a potentially harmful medication and risks may be higher in low-resource settings. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of practices, benefits, and risks of oxytocin for labor augmentation in low- and lower-middle-income countries.
DATA SOURCES
PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Index Medicus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were searched for publications until January 1, 2022.
STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
All studies evaluating oxytocin augmentation rates were included. To investigate benefits and risks, randomized and quasi-randomized trials comparing oxytocin augmentation with placebo or no oxytocin were included. To explore risks more broadly, cohort and case-control studies were also included.
METHODS
Data were extracted and quality-assessed by 2 researchers using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Generic inverse variance outcome and a random-effects model were used. Adjusted or crude effect measures with 95% confidence intervals were used.
RESULTS
In total, 42 studies were included, presenting data from 885 health facilities in 25 low- and lower-middle-income countries (124,643 women). Rates of oxytocin for labor augmentation varied from 0.7% to 97.0%, exceeding 30% in 14 countries. Four studies investigated timing of oxytocin for augmentation and found that 89.5% (2745) of labors augmented with oxytocin did not cross the partograph's action line. Four cohort and 7 case-control studies assessed perinatal outcomes. Meta-analysis revealed that oxytocin was associated with: stillbirth and day-1 neonatal mortality (relative risk, 1.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-2.06; N=84,077; 6 studies); low Apgar score (relative risk, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-1.96; N=80,157; 4 studies); neonatal resuscitation (relative risk, 2.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.87-3.88; N=86,750; 3 studies); and neonatal encephalopathy (relative risk, 2.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.87-4.49; N=1383; 2 studies). No studies assessed effects on cesarean birth rate and uterine rupture.
CONCLUSION
This review discloses a concerning level of oxytocin use, including in labors that often did not fulfill criteria for dystocia. Although this finding is limited by confounding by indication, oxytocin seems associated with increased perinatal risks, which are likely mediated by inadequate fetal monitoring. We call for cautious use on clear indications and robust implementation research to support evidence-based guidelines for labor augmentation, particularly in low-resource settings.
PubMed: 36387299
DOI: 10.1016/j.xagr.2022.100123 -
Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome Oct 2022To assess the impact of long-acting insulin analogues, compared to intermediate acting neutral protamine Hagedron (NPH), on maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes. (Review)
Review
Maternal and neonatal outcomes with the use of long acting, compared to intermediate acting basal insulin (NPH) for managing diabetes during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
To assess the impact of long-acting insulin analogues, compared to intermediate acting neutral protamine Hagedron (NPH), on maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes.
METHODS
Studies for inclusion in the review were identified using a structured search strategy in PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) database. Studies that were randomized controlled trials or observational in design were considered for inclusion. Eligible studies should have compared the maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes between pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) managed by intermediate acting (NPH) and by long-acting insulin analogues. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA software.
RESULTS
We found 17 studies to be eligible for inclusion. The mean gestational weight gain and risk of maternal hypoglycaemia, hypertensive disorder, caesarean delivery, spontaneous abortion, endometritis and wound infection or dehiscence were similar among pregnant women with GDM managed using long-acting insulin analogues and NPH. Those receiving long-acting insulin analogues had significantly lower HbA1c values in the second (WMD - .09, 95% CI 0.12, - 0.06; N = 4) and third trimester (WMD - 0.08, 95% CI - 0.14, - 0.02; N = 12). The mean gestational age and birth weight and risk of perinatal mortality, prematurity, large for gestational age, small for gestational age, shoulder dystocia and congenital abnormalities was similar among babies in both groups. No statistically significant differences in risk of admission to neonatal intensive care unit, respiratory distress, neonatal hypoglycaemia, 5 min APGAR score of < 7, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and sepsis was observed. The quality of pooled evidence, as per GRADE criteria, was judged to be "very low" for all the maternal and neonatal outcomes considered.
CONCLUSIONS
Findings suggest no significant differences in the maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes between intermediate and long-acting insulin analogues. The results provide support for use of long-acting insulin analogues in women with GDM. However, evidence is still needed from high quality randomized controlled trials to arrive at a recommendation for inclusion in routine clinical care.
PubMed: 36271431
DOI: 10.1186/s13098-022-00925-7 -
Obstetrics and Gynecology Nov 2022To systematically review all studies that developed or validated a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) prediction model.
OBJECTIVE
To systematically review all studies that developed or validated a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) prediction model.
DATA SOURCES
MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception until February 2022.
METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION
We included observational studies that developed or validated a multivariable VBAC prediction model in women with a singleton pregnancy and one previous lower segment cesarean delivery. A total of 3,758 articles were identified and screened.
TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS
For 57 included studies, data were extracted in duplicate using a CHARMS (Critical Appraisal and Data Extraction for Systematic Review of Prediction Modelling Studies) checklist-based tool and included participants' characteristics, sample size, predictors, timing of application, and performance. PROBAST (Prediction model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool) and TRIPOD (Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis) were used to assess risk of bias and transparency of reporting. Several studies developed or validated more than one model. There were 38 unique prediction models, 42 external validations of 10 existing prediction models, and six modifications of existing models. Of the 38 unique models, only 19 (19/38, 50%) were internally validated in the initial study. No studies externally validated their model in the initial study. Age, previous vaginal birth, and previous cesarean delivery for labor dystocia were the commonest predictors. The area under the curve in included studies ranged from 0.61 to 0.95. Models used close to delivery generally outperformed those used earlier in pregnancy. Most studies demonstrated a high risk of bias (45/57, 79%), the remainder were unclear (7/57, 12%) and low (5/57, 9%). Median TRIPOD checklist adherence was 70% (range 32-93%).
CONCLUSION
Several prediction models for VBAC success exist, but many lack external validation and are at high risk of bias. Models used close to delivery outperformed those used earlier in pregnancy; however, their generalizability and applicability remain unclear. High-quality external validation and effect studies are required to guide clinical use.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
PROSPERO, CRD42020190930.
Topics: Humans; Pregnancy; Female; Vaginal Birth after Cesarean; Cesarean Section; Probability; Prognosis; Parturition
PubMed: 36201785
DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000004940 -
PloS One 2022Obstructed labor is one of the five major causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in developing countries. In Ethiopia, it accounts for 19.1% of maternal death. The... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Obstructed labor is one of the five major causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in developing countries. In Ethiopia, it accounts for 19.1% of maternal death. The current review aimed to assess maternal and perinatal outcomes of obstructed labor in Ethiopia.
METHODS
Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was followed for this systematic review and meta-analysis. A literature search was made using PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Summon country-specific search, and Cochrane Libraries' online databases. Search terms were adverse outcome, obstructed labor, maternal outcome, fetal outcome, and Ethiopia. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS), based on a star scoring system, was used to assess the quality of the included studies. The meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 16 software. The pooled prevalence of an adverse maternal outcome, fetal outcome, and association between adverse outcome and obstructed labor was calculated using a random-effects model. Egger's test and funnel plot were used to evaluate publication bias.
RESULT
Eighty-seven studies were included in this review, with an overall sample size of 104259 women and 4952 newborns. The pooled incidence of maternal death was estimated to be 14.4% [14.14 (6.91-21.37). The pooled prevalence of uterine rupture and maternal near-miss was 41.18% (95% CI: 19.83, 62.54) and 30.5% [30.5 (11.40, 49.59) respectively. Other complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, sepsis, obstetric fistula, hysterectomy, bladder injury, cesarean section, and labor abnormalities were also reported. The pooled prevalence of perinatal death was 26.4% (26.4 (95% CI 15.18, 37.7). In addition, the association of obstructed labor with stillbirth, perinatal asphyxia, and meconium-stained amniotic fluid was also demonstrated.
CONCLUSIONS
In Ethiopia, the incidence of perinatal and maternal mortality among pregnant women with obstructed labor was high. The rate of maternal death and maternal near miss reported in this review was higher than incidences reported from high-income and most low and middle-income countries. Uterine rupture, postpartum hemorrhage, sepsis, fistula, hysterectomy, and bladder injury were also commonly reported. To improve the health outcomes of obstructed labor, it is recommended to address the three delay models: enhancing communities' health-seeking behavior, enhancing transportation for an obstetric emergency with different stakeholders, and strengthening the capacity of health facilities to handle obstetric emergencies.
Topics: Cesarean Section; Dystocia; Ethiopia; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Maternal Death; Postpartum Hemorrhage; Pregnancy; Sepsis; Uterine Rupture
PubMed: 36178921
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275400 -
Animals : An Open Access Journal From... Jul 2022The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to identify the benefits and possible adverse side effects of oxytocin use during farrowing. Randomized... (Review)
Review
The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to identify the benefits and possible adverse side effects of oxytocin use during farrowing. Randomized controlled trials that were published in English within the last 50 years were eligible for inclusion. Eligible research needed to contain the PICO elements: population (P)-sows at farrowing; intervention (I):-oxytocin given to sows-comparator (C): sows at farrowing not given oxytocin, as well as sows given different dosages and/or different timing of administration; and outcomes (O):-stillbirths, sow mortality, and piglet viability. Four bibliographic databases were used: PubMed, CAB Direct, Web of Science Core Collection, and ProQuest Dissertations, and Theses Global. In addition, we performed a manual search of the table of contents in the American Association of Swine Veterinarians database for relevant conference proceedings and reports. To assess the risk of bias at the study level, a modified version of the Cochrane 2.0 ROB was used. Meta-analyses were performed to examine the average stillbirth rate, farrowing duration, and birth interval between piglets using random-effect standardized mean difference (SMD) models. To explore heterogeneity, a sub-group analysis was performed on the objectives of the study, dose, time, and route of administration. Of the 46 studies eligible for meta-analyses, only 25 had sufficient information. The pooled analyses of the random effect model demonstrated that the average number of stillborn pigs was lower in the comparator group (SMD = 0.23; CI95% = 0.1, 0.36), and both the farrowing duration (SMD = -8.4; CI95% = -1.1, -0.60) and the birth interval between piglets (SMD = -1.41; CI95% = -1.86, -0.97) were shorter in the oxytocin group. The majority of the studies had an overall risk of bias of 'some concerns'. It was concluded that the use of oxytocin increases the overall number of stillborn piglets, but decreases the farrowing duration and time interval between piglets. However, future studies should focus on the effect of oxytocin on the experience of dystocia among sows.
PubMed: 35883343
DOI: 10.3390/ani12141795 -
Annals of Global Health 2022Disparities in health outcomes between immigrant and native-origin populations, particularly pregnant women, pose significant challenges to healthcare systems. The aim... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Disparities in health outcomes between immigrant and native-origin populations, particularly pregnant women, pose significant challenges to healthcare systems. The aim of this systematic-review and meta-analysis was to investigate the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes among immigrant-women compared to native-origin women in the host country.
METHODS
PubMed (including MEDLINE), Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to retrieve studies published in English language up to September 2020. All observational studies examining the prevalence of at least one of the short-term single pregnancy outcomes for immigrants who crossed international borders compared to native-origin pregnant population were included. The meta-prop method was used for the pooled-estimation of adverse pregnancy-outcomes' prevalence. For pool-effect estimates, the association between the immigration-status and outcomes of interest, the random-effects model was applied using the model described by DerSimonian and Laird. I statistic was used to assess heterogeneity. The publication bias was assessed using the Harbord-test. Meta-regression was performed to explore the effect of geographical region as the heterogeneity source.
FINDINGS
This review involved 11 320 674 pregnant women with an immigration-background and 56 102 698 pregnant women as the native-origin population. The risk of emergency cesarean section (Pooled-OR = 1.1, 95%CI = 1.0-1.2), shoulder dystocia (Pooled-OR = 1.1, 95%CI = 1.0-1.3), gestational diabetes mellites (Pooled-OR = 1.4, 95%CI = 1.2-1.6), small for gestational age (Pooled-OR=1.3, 95%CI = 1.1-0.4), 5-min Apgar less than 7 (Pooled-OR = 1.2, 95%CI = 1.0-1.3) and oligohydramnios (Pooled-OR = 1.8, 95%CI = 1.0-3.3) in the immigrant women were significantly higher than those with the native origin background. The immigrant women had a lower risk of labor induction (Pooled-OR = 0.8, 95%CI = 0.7-0.8), pregnancy induced hypertension (Pooled-OR = 0.6, 95%CI = 0.5-0.7) preeclampsia (Pooled-OR = 0.7, 95%CI = 0.6-0.8), macrosomia (Pooled-OR = 0.8, 95%CI = 0.7-0.9) and large for gestational age (Pooled-OR = 0.8, 95%CI = 0.7-0.8). Also, the risk of total and primary cesarean section, instrumental-delivery, preterm-birth, and birth-trauma were similar in both groups. According to meta-regression analyses, the reported ORs were not influenced by the country of origin.
CONCLUSION
The relationship between the immigration status and adverse perinatal outcomes indicated a heterogenous pattern, but the immigrant women were at an increased risk of some important adverse pregnancy outcomes. Population-based studies with a focus on the various aspects of this phenomena are required to explain the source of these heterogenicities.
Topics: Cesarean Section; Diabetes, Gestational; Emigration and Immigration; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Outcome; Premature Birth
PubMed: 35854922
DOI: 10.5334/aogh.3591 -
European Journal of Obstetrics,... Sep 2022This review aims to systematically evaluate the currently available evidence investigating the effectiveness of simulation-based training (SBT) in emergency obstetrics... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
This review aims to systematically evaluate the currently available evidence investigating the effectiveness of simulation-based training (SBT) in emergency obstetrics care (EmOC) in Low- and Lower-Middle Income Countries (LMIC). Furthermore, based on the challenges identified we aim to provide a series of recommendations and a knowledge base for future research in the field.
METHODS
A systematic database search was conducted of original articles that explored the use of simulation-based training for EmOC in LMIC in EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane database and Google Scholar, from inception to January 2022.
RESULTS
The literature search identified 1,957 articles of which a total of 15 studies were included in this review, featuring 8,900 healthcare professionals from 18 countries. The SBT programmes varied in the reviewed studies. The most common training programme consisted of the PRONTO programme implemented by four studies, comprising of 970 participants across four different countries. In general, programmes consisted of lectures, workshops and simulations of emergency obstetric scenarios followed by a debrief of participants. There were thirteen studies, comprising of 8,332 participants, which tested for improvements in clinical knowledge in post-partum haemorrhage, neonatal resuscitation, pre-eclampsia, shoulder dystocia and sepsis. All the included studies reported improvements in clinical knowledge following the simulation of scenarios. Changes in teamwork, improvement in leadership and in communication skills were also widely reported.
CONCLUSION
The use of SBT programmes is not only sustainable, feasible and acceptable in LMIC, but could also improve clinical knowledge, communication, and teamwork among healthcare providers, thus directly addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Topics: Clinical Competence; Developing Countries; Emergencies; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Patient Care Team; Pregnancy; Resuscitation; Simulation Training
PubMed: 35820293
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.07.003 -
European Journal of Obstetrics,... Sep 2022There is insufficient high-quality evidence to either support or discourage water birth (WB). (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
There is insufficient high-quality evidence to either support or discourage water birth (WB).
OBJECTIVES
To examine different maternal complications of WB compared to standard land birth (LB). The primary outcomes were postpartum hemorrhage and genital trauma. The secondary outcome included the risk of retained placenta and shoulder dystocia.
METHODS
We searched the electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, EBSCO. In addition, we searched in Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov. The pooled results were used to evaluate the association between WB and obstetric outcomes. This systematic review (SR) was reported according to PRISMA statement 2020. Statistical meta-analyses were performed using Cochrane RevMan version 5.4 software (http://www.cochrane.org).
RESULTS
This systematic review included 22 studies (20 observational studies and 2 RCT). The pooled results showed lower risk of major PPH compared to the LB group (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66-0.89), no significant difference (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.50-1.78) in the incidence of minor PPH (500-1000 mL blood loss) between WB and LB, no significant difference in the rate of third- and fourth-degree lacerations (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.71-1.07) and in the incidence of retained placenta (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.50-3,35), fewer shoulder dystocia for WB (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.35-0.50). However, compared with the LB group, the rate of first-second-degree tears in the WB group increased by 45% (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.16-1.81).
CONCLUSION
We support ACOG guidelines recommendation for further RCT to assess the impact of water immersion during delivery on maternal outcomes.
Topics: Female; Genitalia; Humans; Natural Childbirth; Placenta, Retained; Postpartum Hemorrhage; Postpartum Period; Pregnancy; Shoulder Dystocia
PubMed: 35797821
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.06.016 -
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology... Sep 2022To evaluate the association between the use of low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia prophylaxis and risks of gestational diabetes (primary outcome), neonatal hypoglycemia,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the association between the use of low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia prophylaxis and risks of gestational diabetes (primary outcome), neonatal hypoglycemia, macrosomia, large for gestational age, birth trauma, and shoulder dystocia (secondary outcomes).
DATA SOURCES
We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane/CENTRAL for studies published between January 1, 1989, and April 24, 2021.
STUDY SELECTION
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or cohort studies of any size conducted in any setting were included.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS
We assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.0 (for RCTs) and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (for cohort studies). We meta-analyzed relative risks (RRs) using random-effects models.
CONCLUSIONS
Our search retrieved 4441 records, of which 9 studies (6 RCTs with 1932 patients and 3 cohort studies with 313 837 patients) met inclusion criteria. We rated only 4 of the 6 RCTs and 1 of the 3 cohort studies at low risk of bias. Low-dose aspirin in pregnancy for preeclampsia prophylaxis was not associated with a greater risk of gestational diabetes (RR 1.18; 95% confidence interval 0.80-1.74). No studies reported data for the secondary outcomes. In summary, the use of low-dose aspirin does not appear associated with risk of gestational diabetes. The poor quality and small number of studies limit the interpretation of these results.
Topics: Aspirin; Diabetes, Gestational; Female; Gestational Age; Humans; Hypoglycemia; Infant, Newborn; Pre-Eclampsia; Pregnancy
PubMed: 35636626
DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2022.05.008 -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.) May 2022To investigate the association between gestational diabetes mellitus and adverse outcomes of pregnancy after adjustment for at least minimal confounding factors. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the association between gestational diabetes mellitus and adverse outcomes of pregnancy after adjustment for at least minimal confounding factors.
DESIGN
Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES
Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, from 1 January 1990 to 1 November 2021.
REVIEW METHODS
Cohort studies and control arms of trials reporting complications of pregnancy in women with gestational diabetes mellitus were eligible for inclusion. Based on the use of insulin, studies were divided into three subgroups: no insulin use (patients never used insulin during the course of the disease), insulin use (different proportions of patients were treated with insulin), and insulin use not reported. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the status of the country (developed or developing), quality of the study, diagnostic criteria, and screening method. Meta-regression models were applied based on the proportion of patients who had received insulin.
RESULTS
156 studies with 7 506 061 pregnancies were included, and 50 (32.1%) showed a low or medium risk of bias. In studies with no insulin use, when adjusted for confounders, women with gestational diabetes mellitus had increased odds of caesarean section (odds ratio 1.16, 95% confidence interval 1.03 to 1.32), preterm delivery (1.51, 1.26 to 1.80), low one minute Apgar score (1.43, 1.01 to 2.03), macrosomia (1.70, 1.23 to 2.36), and infant born large for gestational age (1.57, 1.25 to 1.97). In studies with insulin use, when adjusted for confounders, the odds of having an infant large for gestational age (odds ratio 1.61, 1.09 to 2.37), or with respiratory distress syndrome (1.57, 1.19 to 2.08) or neonatal jaundice (1.28, 1.02 to 1.62), or requiring admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (2.29, 1.59 to 3.31), were higher in women with gestational diabetes mellitus than in those without diabetes. No clear evidence was found for differences in the odds of instrumental delivery, shoulder dystocia, postpartum haemorrhage, stillbirth, neonatal death, low five minute Apgar score, low birth weight, and small for gestational age between women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus after adjusting for confounders. Country status, adjustment for body mass index, and screening methods significantly contributed to heterogeneity between studies for several adverse outcomes of pregnancy.
CONCLUSIONS
When adjusted for confounders, gestational diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with pregnancy complications. The findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the adverse outcomes of pregnancy related to gestational diabetes mellitus. Future primary studies should routinely consider adjusting for a more complete set of prognostic factors.
REVIEW REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42021265837.
Topics: Cesarean Section; Diabetes, Gestational; Female; Fetal Macrosomia; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Insulin; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pregnancy Outcome
PubMed: 35613728
DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2021-067946