Background Antenatal anxiety(AA)is a common mental disorder during pregnancy and adversely affects the wellbeing of both pregnant women and their offspring.The prevalence of AA is exceptionally high in the first trime...Background Antenatal anxiety(AA)is a common mental disorder during pregnancy and adversely affects the wellbeing of both pregnant women and their offspring.The prevalence of AA is exceptionally high in the first trimester,yet there is a lack of studies focusing exclusively on AA in the first trimester.Aims This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of AA among Chinese pregnant women during the first trimester.Methods We retrospectively retrieved and analysed data on the mental health screening of perinatal women at Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital in China from 1 January 2020 to 31 January 2024.A total of 42013 pregnant women with less than 14 weeks of gestation were assessed using the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale(GAD-7).A GAD-7 score≥10 indicates AA.Univariable analyses and multivariable logistic regression were employed to identify risk factors for AA.Results Among the participants,1066(2.54%)experienced AA in the first trimester.Factors associated with a higher risk of AA included being under 25 years old,temporary residence,below senior high school education,low or moderate economic status,primipara,unplanned pregnancy,smoking,alcohol use,lack of exercise,low or moderate living conditions,low or moderate marital satisfaction and reluctance to discuss troubles with others.Conclusions AA manifests as a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by various sociodemographic,obstetrical,lifestyle and psychosocial factors.Preventing AA requires collaboration among hospitals,communities and families.展开更多
BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preven...BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preventing respiratory distress syndrome.Ongoing research on antenatal corticosteroids(ACS)is continuously refining the evidence regarding their efficacy and potential side effects,which may alter the application of this treatment.Recent findings indicate that in resource-limited settings,the effectiveness of ACS is contingent upon meeting specific conditions,including providing adequate medical support for preterm newborns.Future studies are expected to concentrate on developing evidence-based strategies to safely enhance ACS utilization in low-and middle-income countries.AIM To analyze the clinical effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in improving outcomes for preterm newborns in a tertiary care hospital setting in Kazakhstan,following current World Health Organization guidelines.METHODS This study employs a comparative retrospective cohort design to analyze single-center clinical data collected from January 2022 to February 2024.A total of 152 medical records of preterm newborns with gestational ages between 24 and 34 weeks were reviewed,focusing on the completeness of the ACS received.Quantitative variables are presented as means with standard deviations,while frequency analysis of qualitative indicators was performed using Pearson'sχ^(2) test(χ^(2))and Fisher's exact test.If statistical significance was identified,pairwise comparisons between the three observation groups were conducted using the Bonferroni correction.RESULTS The obtained data indicate that the complete implementation of antenatal steroid prophylaxis(ASP)improves neonatal outcomes,particularly by reducing the frequency of birth asphyxia(P=0.002),the need for primary resuscitation(P=0.002),the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure(P=0.022),and the need for surfactant replacement therapy(P=0.038)compared to groups with incomplete or no ASP.Furthermore,complete ASP contributed to a decrease in morbidity among preterm newborns(e.g.,respiratory distress syndrome,intrauterine pneumonia,cerebral ischemia,bronchopulmonary dysplasia,etc.),improved Apgar scores,and reduced the need for re-intubation and the frequency of mechanical ventilation.However,it was associated with an increased incidence of uterine atony in postpartum women(P=0.0095).CONCLUSION In a tertiary hospital setting,the implementation of ACS therapy for pregnancies between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation at high risk for preterm birth significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal complications and related interventions.This,in turn,contributes to better outcomes for this cohort of children.However,the impact of ACS on maternal outcomes requires further thorough investigation.展开更多
BACKGROUND Antenatal depression is a disabling mental disorder among pregnant women and may cause adverse outcomes for both the mother and the offspring.Early identification and intervention of antenatal depression ca...BACKGROUND Antenatal depression is a disabling mental disorder among pregnant women and may cause adverse outcomes for both the mother and the offspring.Early identification and intervention of antenatal depression can help to prevent adverse outcomes.However,there have been few population-based studies focusing on the association of social and obstetric risk factors with antenatal depression in China.AIM To assess the sociodemographic and obstetric factors of antenatal depression and compare the network structure of depressive symptoms across different risk levels based on a large Chinese population.METHODS The cross-sectional survey was conducted in Shenzhen,China from 2020 to 2024.Antenatal depression was assessed using the Chinese version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale(EPDS),with a score of≥13 indicating the presence of probable antenatal depression.Theχ2 test and binary logistic regression were used to identify the factors associated with antenatal depression.Network analyses were conducted to investigate the structure of depressive symptoms across groups with different risk levels.RESULTS Among the 44220 pregnant women,the prevalence of probable antenatal depression was 4.4%.An age≤24 years,a lower level of education(≤12 years),low or moderate economic status,having a history of mental disorders,being in the first trimester,being a primipara,unplanned pregnancy,and pregnancy without pre-pregnancy screening were found to be associated with antenatal depression(all P<0.05).Depressive symptom networks across groups with different risk levels revealed robust interconnections between symptoms.EPDS8("sad or miserable")and EPDS4("anxious or worried")showed the highest nodal strength across groups with different risk levels.CONCLUSION This study suggested that the prevalence of antenatal depression was 4.4%.Several social and obstetric factors were identified as risk factors for antenatal depression.EPDS8("sad or miserable")and EPDS4("anxious or worried")are pivotal targets for clinical intervention to alleviate the burden of antenatal depression.Early identification of highrisk groups is crucial for the development and implementation of intervention strategies to improve the overall quality of life for pregnant women.展开更多
Depression is the most prevalent mental disorder in pregnancy, and yet it is lessstudied than postpartum depression despite the consequences it may have onboth the pregnant woman and her offspring. Therefore, it would...Depression is the most prevalent mental disorder in pregnancy, and yet it is lessstudied than postpartum depression despite the consequences it may have onboth the pregnant woman and her offspring. Therefore, it would be important toknow which risk factors may favour the appearance of antenatal depression inorder to carry out appropriate prevention interventions. The aim of the presentreview was to identify the main risk factors of antenatal depression. We searchedin databases PubMed and PsycINFO for articles published about the factorsassociated with antenatal depression from January 2010 through December 2020.The literature review identified three main groups of antenatal depression riskfactors: sociodemographic, obstetric, and psychological. First, among thesociodemographic variables, the low level of studies and the economic incomeclearly stood out from the rest. Then, not having planned the pregnancy was themain obstetric variable, and finally, the main psychological risk factors werehaving a history of psychological disorders and/or depression as well aspresenting anxiety, stress, and/or low social support during pregnancy. Thisreview shows that the antenatal depression is affected by multiple factors. Mostcan be identified at the beginning of the pregnancy, and some are risk factorspotentially modifiable through appropriate interventions, such as psychologicalfactors. For this reason, it is important to carry out a good screening for depressionduring pregnancy and consequently, be able to prevent its appearance ortreat it if necessary.展开更多
Objective:To analyze the sociological support system available for left-behind wives of male outmigrants and develop a model that predicts the antenatal care(ANC)services utilization.Methods:A cross-sectional survey w...Objective:To analyze the sociological support system available for left-behind wives of male outmigrants and develop a model that predicts the antenatal care(ANC)services utilization.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted in rural regions of the Patna district,India.The sample size(n=328)was estimated using Cochran’s formula.Five parameters of the social support system were identified(autonomy,spousal support,family support,social circle support,and government support).The score for each was calculated as a composite score using multiple variables;these served as independent variables.The respondents were categorized as efficient and non-efficient users of ANC service based on established criteria.Results:The regression results showed that four out of five social parameters had a significant effect on ANC behavior.Spousal support was the strongest predictor(standardized regression coefficient β=0.57,OR 1.16,95%CI 1.08-1.79,P=0.007).Government support was found to be the second strongest predictor(β=0.40,OR 1.49,95%CI 1.04-2.14,P=0.027),followed by family support(β=0.31,OR 1.36,95%CI 1.23-2.57,P=0.034)and autonomy(β=0.11,OR 1.32,95%CI 1.11-2.26,P=0.030).The social circle support was found to be non-significant in predicting ANC behavior(P>0.05).Conclusions:The policymakers could focus on the identified predictors to strengthen and modify the existing policies for leftbehind wives of male outmigrants.The need of the hour is a strategic intervention for behavioral modification of not only the left-behind wives but also their family members along with reinforcement of the existing social-security net.One strategy we suggest is to launch an awareness campaign focusing on husbands(male outmigrants)and family members.展开更多
The study aimed to determine whether antenatal fear of childbirth (expectation) could predict postnatal fear of childbirth (experience) by taking account of other antenatal psychological variables (anxiety and depress...The study aimed to determine whether antenatal fear of childbirth (expectation) could predict postnatal fear of childbirth (experience) by taking account of other antenatal psychological variables (anxiety and depression) as well as birth outcomes in Japanese women. A longitudinal observational study was conducted at a clinic in Tokyo, Japan, in 2011. Self-report questionnaires were distributed to 240 Japanese women at 37 gestational weeks (Time 1) and on the second day after delivery (Time 2). Regression analyses by means of structural equation modelling were conducted in both the primiparous and the multiparous group. The models exhibited good fit (chisquare value/degree of freedom = 1.10 - 1.62, comparative fit index = 0.92 - 0.99 and root mean square error of approximation = 0.03 - 0.07). Antenatal fear of childbirth was the most predictive variable of postnatal fear of childbirth in both the primiparous (β = 0.58, p = 0.002) and the multiparous group (β = 0.62, p < 0.001). In conclusion, antenatal fear of childbirth was a significant predictor of postnatal fear of childbirth when other antenatal psychological variables and birth outcomes were taken into account. Pregnant women who are strongly afraid of childbirth need special attention before and after delivery.展开更多
Literature asserts that prenatal care is an imperative factor for subsequent health care utilization. However, in the Indian settings presence of selection bias while determining the impact of ANC visits on institutio...Literature asserts that prenatal care is an imperative factor for subsequent health care utilization. However, in the Indian settings presence of selection bias while determining the impact of ANC visits on institutional delivery has been overlooked by the researchers. Therefore this paper aims to examine the net impact of ANC visits on subsequent utilization of institutional delivery after removing the presence of selection bias using recent round of National Family Health survey data. The analysis has been carried out in two separate models, in the first model 1-2 ANC visits been compared with no visit and in the second model three or more antenatal care visits with no visit. The propensity score matching analysis used in this study sheds new light into this line of research which provides an effective strategy for controlling the confounding influence of institutional delivery. Employing the propensity score matching estimation approach we found women who made 1-2 ANC visits had 6.6 percent higher chance to deliver in an institution compared to women who made no visit. In addition, if a woman visited health centre three or more than three times, her chances were 31 percent higher to deliver in an institution. Result based on sensitivity analysis suggests that selection bias on unobserved covariates would have to be around 40 percent to alter the impact of 1-2 ANC visits. Findings suggest that interventions which plan to increase institutional delivery should target pregnant women who come for ANC checkups at institution first time, and health workers should encourage women to return to the health centre for more numbers of visits, as our results indicate that three or more ANC visits significantly change the women’s attitudes towards institutional delivery.展开更多
Objective: Anxiety is common among pregnant women. However, research attention in the area of reproductive mental health has mainly focused on postpartum depression in past decades. Given adverse outcomes of antenatal...Objective: Anxiety is common among pregnant women. However, research attention in the area of reproductive mental health has mainly focused on postpartum depression in past decades. Given adverse outcomes of antenatal anxiety, there is an urgent need to fill the research gaps. The objectives of the present study were to determine the prevalence of antenatal anxiety symptoms and examine the risk factors and effects of anxiety symptoms in early pregnancy on anxiety and depressive symptoms in later pregnancy and early postpartum period. Methodology: A prospective longitudinal design with quantitative approach was adopted. A consecutive sample of 1470 Chinese pregnant women from hospitals in Hong Kong was invited to participate in the study and was assessed using standardized instruments on 3 time points including first and third trimesters of pregnancy and 6-week postpartum. Results: The results showed that 17.7% of pregnant women manifested anxiety symptoms in the first trimester of pregnancy. Single mothers, younger mothers, mothers who smoked before pregnancy and mothers who received low education level reported significantly higher levels of anxiety symptoms in the first trimester. Unwanted pregnancy, low self esteem, low marital satisfaction and perceived low social support were significant psychosocial risk factors for anxiety symptoms in the first trimester. Anxiety symptoms in the first trimester were independent predictors for anxiety symptoms in the third trimester ( QUOTE β = 0.26, t = 5.74, p < 0.001), however anxiety symptoms in the first trimester no longer significantly predicted anxiety and depressive symptoms in 6 weeks postpartum after adjusting for the effects of potential confounders. Discussions: The present study points to the need for greater research and clinical attention to antenatal anxiety given that antenatal anxiety is a prevalent problem and has serious impacts on maternal well-being. Such findings also contribute to the understanding of maternal anxiety and have implications for the design of effective identification, prevention and treatment of these significant clinical展开更多
The Dandy-Walker syndrome (DWS) can be accurately diagnosed in utero by sonographic demonstration of characteristic morphologic changes of the fetus, which includes hydrocephalus, incomplete cerebellar vermis and a po...The Dandy-Walker syndrome (DWS) can be accurately diagnosed in utero by sonographic demonstration of characteristic morphologic changes of the fetus, which includes hydrocephalus, incomplete cerebellar vermis and a posterior fossa cyst. We present a case of Dandy-Walker syndrome diagnosed antenatally. The assoiacted anomalies are reviewed, and the value of antenatal diagnosis is discussed.展开更多
Since anemia is one of the most skyrocketed public health problems worldwide, an investigation has thus been conducted to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among the pregnant women receiving anten...Since anemia is one of the most skyrocketed public health problems worldwide, an investigation has thus been conducted to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among the pregnant women receiving antenatal care (ANC) at Fatima Hospital in Jashore, Bangladesh. Facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 384 pregnant women at Fatima hospital, Bangladesh from February to April, 2019. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire and participant’s current medical record card. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with anemia and a P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significance. The overall prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 58.9% (226/384). Out of 226 anemic pregnant mothers, 36.3% (82/226) were mildly anemic, 62.4% (141/226) were moderately anemic and 1.3% (3/384) was severely anemic. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the following variables were significantly associated with anemia: Monthly family income (11,000 - 20,000 Taka) [AOR (95% CI) = 0.45 (0.21 - 0.98)], Family size (joint) [AOR (95% CI) = 1.59 (1.03 - 2.45)], Gestational age (third trimester) [AOR (95% CI) = 2.18 (1.40 - 3.40)], birth spacing < 2 years [AOR (95% CI) = 2.87 (1.51 - 5.44)], Excessive blood loss during previous surgery (Yes) [AOR (95% CI) = 2.08 (1.14 - 4.17)], Food group eaten 24 hours (1 - 4 groups) [AOR (95% CI) = 3.43 (1.84 - 6.39)], Breakfast regularly (No) [AOR (95% CI) = 3.64 (1.36 - 9.75)]. The results obtained showed that the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women is severe at Fatima Hospital in Jashore, Bangladesh.展开更多
Worldwide more than thousands of women and new born are at the danger of die from pregnancy and child delivery complications. Antenatal care (ANC)/ pregnancy care is the health care where expecting mothers and new bor...Worldwide more than thousands of women and new born are at the danger of die from pregnancy and child delivery complications. Antenatal care (ANC)/ pregnancy care is the health care where expecting mothers and new born receive medical care or medical attention. The aim of this study is to examine factors affecting the utilization of antenatal care among married women of reproductive age in Merca, lower Shebelle, Somalia. Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional and qualitative study design that was carried out from June to August 2022 and this study was carried out in Merca, district lower Shabelle, Somalia. Data were collected from 325 married women of reproductive age who have at least one child and more than living in Merca district. Result: Our study found that the magnitude of antenatal care uptake was 31.1% during the examined period. Very low utilization of antenatal care in Somali women is worrying in the face of high vulnerability of maternal complications. In terms of age diverse and utilization of antenatal care, women in younger age group 15 - 30 were more to utilize antenatal care services than with women in older age group 31 years above (p-value < 0.007). Our study also identified that there is association between level of education and level of utilization among women about antenatal care services (p-value < 0.001). In terms of level of awareness about antenatal care services, it is significantly associated with the level of utilization antenatal care (p-value < 0.001). Our study identified that the number of complaining complications related previous pregnancy that have no awareness about antenatal care services was higher than number of utilized antennal care awareness about antenatal care (p-value < 0.001). Based on these results, it is recommended to improve women’s awareness about antenatal care services by using health education program.展开更多
Background: Late antenatal care attendance among pregnant women at health facilities remains a significant public health problem. Globally, approximately 830 women die every day due to pregnancy-related complications ...Background: Late antenatal care attendance among pregnant women at health facilities remains a significant public health problem. Globally, approximately 830 women die every day due to pregnancy-related complications and 99% of these deaths occur in developing countries whereby 86% of pregnant women access Antenatal Care (ANC) services at least once. Objective: The general objective of the study was to determine factors associated with late antenatal care seeking behavior among pregnant women at Kyenjojo general hospital. Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study design that considered quantitative data collection methods among pregnant women attending ANC. The sample size was determined using Kish and Leslie (1969) formula using a proportion of 37% (0.37) of women who sought late ANC. A systematic sampling technique was used to sample pregnant women on daily basis. Results: A total of 283 women participated in the study. Spouse’s occupation was significantly associated with late ANC attendance (p = 0.026). On the other hand, education level of respondent (Fisher’s = 8.363, p = 0.028*), religion (Fisher’s = 5.77, p = 0.048*) and parity (Fisher’s 10.312, p = 0.026*) revealed statistically significant association with late ANC attendance. In multivariate logistic regression, on occupation, women with unemployed spouses were significantly associated with 25% increase in attendance of late ANC compared to those in formal employment (AOR = 0.25, CI: 0.073 - 0.855, p = 0.027*). Conclusion: The Majority of pregnant women sought ANC at 90.1% (n = 255). There’s a need for government to strengthen health promotion targeting women in rural communities.展开更多
Background: Pregnant women receive antenatal care (ANC) to ensure favorable pregnancy outcomes. Despite the high ANC coverage rate registered nationally in Cameroon;rural women, women with no formal education and thos...Background: Pregnant women receive antenatal care (ANC) to ensure favorable pregnancy outcomes. Despite the high ANC coverage rate registered nationally in Cameroon;rural women, women with no formal education and those in the most deprived quintile still face difficulties in having access to quality ANC. The impact of the aforementioned factors on ANC use in the Muea Health Area (MHA) is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of women attending ANC and the factors influencing ANC attendance in the MHA. Materials and Methods: This was a community based, analytical, cross sectional survey that involved pregnant women and women with children less than two years old who gave an informed consent or assent. Data were collected using a semi structured questionnaire. EPI info Version 7 and Stat Pac for Windows version 12??1998-2011 (Stat Pac Inc, Bloomington, USA) were used for data analysis. Associations were considered statistically significant for p values less than 0.05. Results: Two hundred and twenty women were interviewed. The mean age was 25 years (SD 5.28). Ninety-nine percent of women had at least one ANC visit meanwhile 84.8% had at least four ANC visits. Only 27.2% of women booked for ANC in the first trimester. Rural (Maumu) residence was associated with inappropriate ANC attendance (attending less than four times) (χ2?= 18.5;p = 0.001). Semi urban women (87%;95% C.I. = 85.10% - 89.0%) were more likely to attend four or more sessions than rural (Maumu) women (60.7%;95% C.I. = 44.2% - 77.3%) (p = 0.001). Participant’s educational level was a significant predictor of early booking for ANC (χ2?= 26.8;p = 0.0002). Semi urban wom- en (79.1%;95% C.I. = 76.0% - 82.2%) were significantly more likely to have a vaginal examination done than rural (Maumu) women (42.1%;95% C.I. = 17.5% - 68.2%) (p = 0.0001). Women who met a doctor during ANC (84.0%;95% C.I. = 80.8% - 87.0%) were more likely to have a vaginal examination done than women who only met a nurse or a midwife during ANC (65.0%;95% C.I. = 57.7% - 71.4%) (p = 0.002). One third of women did not have a vaginal examination performed?during ANC. 45.83% and 47.6% neither did a stool test nor received an insecticide treated net (ITN) respectively. Conclusion: Women in the MHA start their antenatal care late, so they should be encouraged to book early for antenatal surveillance. Furthermore, efforts should be made to increase the access of these women to quality ANC services and to adequately trained ANC providers.展开更多
Objective: Effective confirmation of pregnancy is a basic component of reproductive health services. It is a determinant for accessing antenatal care (ANC) if the pregnancy is wanted and abortion services if the pregn...Objective: Effective confirmation of pregnancy is a basic component of reproductive health services. It is a determinant for accessing antenatal care (ANC) if the pregnancy is wanted and abortion services if the pregnancy is unwanted. This study examined the effect of urine pregnancy testing in the timing of presentation for pregnancy care. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 women presenting for antenatal care and 300 women presenting for abortion at private sector clinics in Western Nigeria. Results: The median age at first presentation was 20 weeks for ANC clients and 8 weeks for abortion clients. Obtaining urine pregnancy test of one’s accord was associated with a decrease in the gestational age at presentation of 3.7 weeks and 1.5 weeks for antenatal and abortion clients, respectively, independent of all other factors. Conclusion: Bearing in mind that the clinical benefit and public health impact of early presentation for antenatal and abortion services are unequivocal, strategies aimed at decreasing gestational age at presentation for pregnancy care should be given priority. “Fast-track” urine pregnancy testing services should be promoted in the private and public clinics in Nigeria.展开更多
Objectives: This study empirically assesses the impact of the changes in women’s characteristics, empowerment, availability and quality of health services on woman’s decision to use antenatal care (ANC) and the freq...Objectives: This study empirically assesses the impact of the changes in women’s characteristics, empowerment, availability and quality of health services on woman’s decision to use antenatal care (ANC) and the frequency of that use during the period 2000-2008. Study Design: The study is a cross-sectional analytical study using 2000 and 2008 Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys. Methods: The assessment of the studied impact is conducted using the Zero-inflated Negative Binomial Regression. In addition, Factor Analysis technique is used to construct some of the explanatory variables such as women’s empowerment, the availability and quality of health services indicators. Results: Utilization of antenatal health care services is greatly improved from 2000 to 2008. Availability of health services is one of the main determinants that affect the number of antenatal care visits in 2008. Wealth index and quality of health services play an important role in raising the level of antenatal care utilization in 2000 and 2008. However, the impact of the terminated pregnancy on receiving ANC increased over time. Conclusions: Further research of the determinants of antenatal health care utilization is needed, using more updated measures of women’s empowerment, availability and quality of health services. In order to improve the provision of antenatal health care services, it is important to understand barriers to antenatal health care utilization. Therefore, it is advisable to collect information from women about the reasons for not receiving antenatal care.展开更多
Aim:The study aimed to explore factors related to the initiation and utilization of focused antenatal care(FANC)in the Southern District of Mzimba,Malawi.Methods:This study used an exploratory qualitative design.Total...Aim:The study aimed to explore factors related to the initiation and utilization of focused antenatal care(FANC)in the Southern District of Mzimba,Malawi.Methods:This study used an exploratory qualitative design.Total of 22 in-depth interviews with pregnant women and community midwife assistants were conducted from December 2015 to January 2016 in Mzimba.Thematic analysis approach was adopted to identify the facilitator and harriers of the FANC initiation and utilization.Results:Facilitator of FANC initiation and utilization included seeking pregnancy confirmation,medical treatment for an existing health problem and the support by community health extension workers.Barriers included the additional cost to free FANC service,lack of essential equipment,unfriendly adolescent reproductive health service,and HIV stigma.Conclusion:Early initiation of FANC relies on both woman’s awareness and community support.Promoting the use of FANC should focus on creating an enabling environment,e.g.,increasing investment of essential medical equipment,reducing additional costs of FANC services,eliminating the discrimination against adolescent pregnancy and people living with HIV,and strengthening health personnel’s training.展开更多
With the increasing use of ultrasonography,congenital anomalies are often picked in utero.Antenatally detected hydronephrosis is amongst the most commonly detected abnormality.The management of this condition has rais...With the increasing use of ultrasonography,congenital anomalies are often picked in utero.Antenatally detected hydronephrosis is amongst the most commonly detected abnormality.The management of this condition has raised considerable debate amongst clinicians dealing with it.This article is written with an idea to provide comprehensive information regarding the postnatal management of antenatally detected hydronephrosis.A detailed review of the current literature on this topic is provided.Also,guidelines have been given to facilitate the management of this condition.展开更多
Objective:To assess the prevalence of anemia and asymptomatia malaria parasitemia and the effect of prior antimalarials therapy on the parasite density in pregnant women at their first antenatal visit at the secondary...Objective:To assess the prevalence of anemia and asymptomatia malaria parasitemia and the effect of prior antimalarials therapy on the parasite density in pregnant women at their first antenatal visit at the secondary level health care facility in Nigeria.Methods:This cross sectional observational study was carried out in the antenatal clinic of General Hospital,Ikot Ekpene,Akwa Ibom State,Nigeria for 3 months period(1<sup>st</sup> June to 31<sup>st</sup> August,2009).Five hundred and fourteen women attending their first antenatal registration visits in the hospital were recruited in the study.Socio-demographic information was obtained using pre-tested questionnaires.The malaria parasite was obtained by examining thick and thin blood films prepared on 2 glass slides while the hematocrit was obtained through 2 capillary tubes read by a Hawksleys microhematocrit reader.Results:A total of 514 pregnant women participated in the study with a mean maternal age of 21.4 years and a mean gestational age at booking of 18.3 weeks.The primigravid women booked at significantly lower gestational age than multigravidae （16.2 weeks vs 21.6 weeks）.Most of the women（59.3%） were anemic,out of which 60.4%were primigravida.More than half of the women had moderate to high parasite density and only 6.8% had no malaria parasitemia.All patients with severe anemia were parasitemic.Out of the 479 （93.2%） women with parasitemia,a third had taken antimalarial drugs.A majority（60.3%） of those without prior antimalarial drugs had moderate to high density parasitemia.Conclusions: This study shows high prevalence of anemia in women with asymptomatic malarial parasitemia, particularly the primigravida.The severity of anemia is directly related to the density of malaria parasitemia.Those with effective antimalarial therapy appear to have low density parasitemia and therefore mild anemia.Routine screening for anemia and malaria parasites at booking,prompt parasite clearance and correction of anemia would reduce the associated maternal and perinatal complications.展开更多
Aim: This study seeks to investigate the factors determining the utilization of antenatal care services, the frequency of that use, and the timing of receiving antenatal care among Egyptian women utilizing a national ...Aim: This study seeks to investigate the factors determining the utilization of antenatal care services, the frequency of that use, and the timing of receiving antenatal care among Egyptian women utilizing a national representative data from Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS) in 2000 and 2014. Methods: The paper estimates the logistic regression model, zero-inflated negative binomial model (ZINB), and negative binomial regression model (NB) to identify the most important determinants of antenatal health care utilization. Results: The findings indicate that the period 2000-2014 has experienced a significant increase in the use of antenatal health care services. The use of the public sector antenatal care services relative to that of the private sector has been decreasing over time. Moreover, wealth index, women’s education and quality of health services play significant roles in increasing accessibility of antenatal health care services. On the other hand, women’s empowerment has shown a positive effect in 2000 only. Conclusion: The study highlights the most vulnerable groups that are less likely to have access to antenatal health care services, mainly women who are less educated, poor and living in rural areas especially Upper Egypt. This certainly requires a more targeted health strategy with an equity lens.展开更多
An understanding of factors influencing haemoglobin (Hb) level among antenatal mothers can help healthcare providers assess, take appropriate action and manage anaemia in this risk group more effectively. A cross-sect...An understanding of factors influencing haemoglobin (Hb) level among antenatal mothers can help healthcare providers assess, take appropriate action and manage anaemia in this risk group more effectively. A cross-sectional study was conducted in urban areas in Malaysia to determine the Hb levels of antenatal mothers and their association with various socio-economic characteristics. Data for this study were collected from pregnant women during their first antenatal check-up at three selected polyclinics in Malaysia. Anaemia in pregnancy was determined by the Hb level recorded during the first and the last antenatal visits. Determination of Hb was either by a photo calorimetric method or by the Sahliís method. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to identify the factors influencing Hb level among the antenatal mothers. This study found that 73 out of 217 mothers (33%) were anaemic in that their Hb levels were below 11.00 g/dl. The findings also suggested that Hb levels among the antenatal mothers were influenced by various factors such as education level, occupation, and family income. Anaemia was generally more common among antenatal mothers who had a lower level of education and who were from a background of lower family income.展开更多
基金supported by the Joint Funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(YZ,U23A20434)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(BL,82371535)(LZ,82171518)+2 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(BL,2021YFF1201204)the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province(BL,2023RC3083)the Postgraduate Innovative Project of Central South University(SX,2021zzts0376).
文摘Background Antenatal anxiety(AA)is a common mental disorder during pregnancy and adversely affects the wellbeing of both pregnant women and their offspring.The prevalence of AA is exceptionally high in the first trimester,yet there is a lack of studies focusing exclusively on AA in the first trimester.Aims This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of AA among Chinese pregnant women during the first trimester.Methods We retrospectively retrieved and analysed data on the mental health screening of perinatal women at Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital in China from 1 January 2020 to 31 January 2024.A total of 42013 pregnant women with less than 14 weeks of gestation were assessed using the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale(GAD-7).A GAD-7 score≥10 indicates AA.Univariable analyses and multivariable logistic regression were employed to identify risk factors for AA.Results Among the participants,1066(2.54%)experienced AA in the first trimester.Factors associated with a higher risk of AA included being under 25 years old,temporary residence,below senior high school education,low or moderate economic status,primipara,unplanned pregnancy,smoking,alcohol use,lack of exercise,low or moderate living conditions,low or moderate marital satisfaction and reluctance to discuss troubles with others.Conclusions AA manifests as a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by various sociodemographic,obstetrical,lifestyle and psychosocial factors.Preventing AA requires collaboration among hospitals,communities and families.
基金Supported by Non-profit Joint Stock Company“S.D.Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University”,Almaty,Kazakhstan。
文摘BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preventing respiratory distress syndrome.Ongoing research on antenatal corticosteroids(ACS)is continuously refining the evidence regarding their efficacy and potential side effects,which may alter the application of this treatment.Recent findings indicate that in resource-limited settings,the effectiveness of ACS is contingent upon meeting specific conditions,including providing adequate medical support for preterm newborns.Future studies are expected to concentrate on developing evidence-based strategies to safely enhance ACS utilization in low-and middle-income countries.AIM To analyze the clinical effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in improving outcomes for preterm newborns in a tertiary care hospital setting in Kazakhstan,following current World Health Organization guidelines.METHODS This study employs a comparative retrospective cohort design to analyze single-center clinical data collected from January 2022 to February 2024.A total of 152 medical records of preterm newborns with gestational ages between 24 and 34 weeks were reviewed,focusing on the completeness of the ACS received.Quantitative variables are presented as means with standard deviations,while frequency analysis of qualitative indicators was performed using Pearson'sχ^(2) test(χ^(2))and Fisher's exact test.If statistical significance was identified,pairwise comparisons between the three observation groups were conducted using the Bonferroni correction.RESULTS The obtained data indicate that the complete implementation of antenatal steroid prophylaxis(ASP)improves neonatal outcomes,particularly by reducing the frequency of birth asphyxia(P=0.002),the need for primary resuscitation(P=0.002),the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure(P=0.022),and the need for surfactant replacement therapy(P=0.038)compared to groups with incomplete or no ASP.Furthermore,complete ASP contributed to a decrease in morbidity among preterm newborns(e.g.,respiratory distress syndrome,intrauterine pneumonia,cerebral ischemia,bronchopulmonary dysplasia,etc.),improved Apgar scores,and reduced the need for re-intubation and the frequency of mechanical ventilation.However,it was associated with an increased incidence of uterine atony in postpartum women(P=0.0095).CONCLUSION In a tertiary hospital setting,the implementation of ACS therapy for pregnancies between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation at high risk for preterm birth significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal complications and related interventions.This,in turn,contributes to better outcomes for this cohort of children.However,the impact of ACS on maternal outcomes requires further thorough investigation.
基金Supported by the Joint Funds of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U23A20434National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82301738,No.82371535,and No.82171518+1 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2021YFF1201204the Science and Technology Innovation Program of Hunan Province,No.2023RC3083.
文摘BACKGROUND Antenatal depression is a disabling mental disorder among pregnant women and may cause adverse outcomes for both the mother and the offspring.Early identification and intervention of antenatal depression can help to prevent adverse outcomes.However,there have been few population-based studies focusing on the association of social and obstetric risk factors with antenatal depression in China.AIM To assess the sociodemographic and obstetric factors of antenatal depression and compare the network structure of depressive symptoms across different risk levels based on a large Chinese population.METHODS The cross-sectional survey was conducted in Shenzhen,China from 2020 to 2024.Antenatal depression was assessed using the Chinese version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale(EPDS),with a score of≥13 indicating the presence of probable antenatal depression.Theχ2 test and binary logistic regression were used to identify the factors associated with antenatal depression.Network analyses were conducted to investigate the structure of depressive symptoms across groups with different risk levels.RESULTS Among the 44220 pregnant women,the prevalence of probable antenatal depression was 4.4%.An age≤24 years,a lower level of education(≤12 years),low or moderate economic status,having a history of mental disorders,being in the first trimester,being a primipara,unplanned pregnancy,and pregnancy without pre-pregnancy screening were found to be associated with antenatal depression(all P<0.05).Depressive symptom networks across groups with different risk levels revealed robust interconnections between symptoms.EPDS8("sad or miserable")and EPDS4("anxious or worried")showed the highest nodal strength across groups with different risk levels.CONCLUSION This study suggested that the prevalence of antenatal depression was 4.4%.Several social and obstetric factors were identified as risk factors for antenatal depression.EPDS8("sad or miserable")and EPDS4("anxious or worried")are pivotal targets for clinical intervention to alleviate the burden of antenatal depression.Early identification of highrisk groups is crucial for the development and implementation of intervention strategies to improve the overall quality of life for pregnant women.
文摘Depression is the most prevalent mental disorder in pregnancy, and yet it is lessstudied than postpartum depression despite the consequences it may have onboth the pregnant woman and her offspring. Therefore, it would be important toknow which risk factors may favour the appearance of antenatal depression inorder to carry out appropriate prevention interventions. The aim of the presentreview was to identify the main risk factors of antenatal depression. We searchedin databases PubMed and PsycINFO for articles published about the factorsassociated with antenatal depression from January 2010 through December 2020.The literature review identified three main groups of antenatal depression riskfactors: sociodemographic, obstetric, and psychological. First, among thesociodemographic variables, the low level of studies and the economic incomeclearly stood out from the rest. Then, not having planned the pregnancy was themain obstetric variable, and finally, the main psychological risk factors werehaving a history of psychological disorders and/or depression as well aspresenting anxiety, stress, and/or low social support during pregnancy. Thisreview shows that the antenatal depression is affected by multiple factors. Mostcan be identified at the beginning of the pregnancy, and some are risk factorspotentially modifiable through appropriate interventions, such as psychologicalfactors. For this reason, it is important to carry out a good screening for depressionduring pregnancy and consequently, be able to prevent its appearance ortreat it if necessary.
基金The IIHMR University Ph.D.fellowship was received to conduct this study。
文摘Objective:To analyze the sociological support system available for left-behind wives of male outmigrants and develop a model that predicts the antenatal care(ANC)services utilization.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted in rural regions of the Patna district,India.The sample size(n=328)was estimated using Cochran’s formula.Five parameters of the social support system were identified(autonomy,spousal support,family support,social circle support,and government support).The score for each was calculated as a composite score using multiple variables;these served as independent variables.The respondents were categorized as efficient and non-efficient users of ANC service based on established criteria.Results:The regression results showed that four out of five social parameters had a significant effect on ANC behavior.Spousal support was the strongest predictor(standardized regression coefficient β=0.57,OR 1.16,95%CI 1.08-1.79,P=0.007).Government support was found to be the second strongest predictor(β=0.40,OR 1.49,95%CI 1.04-2.14,P=0.027),followed by family support(β=0.31,OR 1.36,95%CI 1.23-2.57,P=0.034)and autonomy(β=0.11,OR 1.32,95%CI 1.11-2.26,P=0.030).The social circle support was found to be non-significant in predicting ANC behavior(P>0.05).Conclusions:The policymakers could focus on the identified predictors to strengthen and modify the existing policies for leftbehind wives of male outmigrants.The need of the hour is a strategic intervention for behavioral modification of not only the left-behind wives but also their family members along with reinforcement of the existing social-security net.One strategy we suggest is to launch an awareness campaign focusing on husbands(male outmigrants)and family members.
文摘The study aimed to determine whether antenatal fear of childbirth (expectation) could predict postnatal fear of childbirth (experience) by taking account of other antenatal psychological variables (anxiety and depression) as well as birth outcomes in Japanese women. A longitudinal observational study was conducted at a clinic in Tokyo, Japan, in 2011. Self-report questionnaires were distributed to 240 Japanese women at 37 gestational weeks (Time 1) and on the second day after delivery (Time 2). Regression analyses by means of structural equation modelling were conducted in both the primiparous and the multiparous group. The models exhibited good fit (chisquare value/degree of freedom = 1.10 - 1.62, comparative fit index = 0.92 - 0.99 and root mean square error of approximation = 0.03 - 0.07). Antenatal fear of childbirth was the most predictive variable of postnatal fear of childbirth in both the primiparous (β = 0.58, p = 0.002) and the multiparous group (β = 0.62, p < 0.001). In conclusion, antenatal fear of childbirth was a significant predictor of postnatal fear of childbirth when other antenatal psychological variables and birth outcomes were taken into account. Pregnant women who are strongly afraid of childbirth need special attention before and after delivery.
文摘Literature asserts that prenatal care is an imperative factor for subsequent health care utilization. However, in the Indian settings presence of selection bias while determining the impact of ANC visits on institutional delivery has been overlooked by the researchers. Therefore this paper aims to examine the net impact of ANC visits on subsequent utilization of institutional delivery after removing the presence of selection bias using recent round of National Family Health survey data. The analysis has been carried out in two separate models, in the first model 1-2 ANC visits been compared with no visit and in the second model three or more antenatal care visits with no visit. The propensity score matching analysis used in this study sheds new light into this line of research which provides an effective strategy for controlling the confounding influence of institutional delivery. Employing the propensity score matching estimation approach we found women who made 1-2 ANC visits had 6.6 percent higher chance to deliver in an institution compared to women who made no visit. In addition, if a woman visited health centre three or more than three times, her chances were 31 percent higher to deliver in an institution. Result based on sensitivity analysis suggests that selection bias on unobserved covariates would have to be around 40 percent to alter the impact of 1-2 ANC visits. Findings suggest that interventions which plan to increase institutional delivery should target pregnant women who come for ANC checkups at institution first time, and health workers should encourage women to return to the health centre for more numbers of visits, as our results indicate that three or more ANC visits significantly change the women’s attitudes towards institutional delivery.
文摘Objective: Anxiety is common among pregnant women. However, research attention in the area of reproductive mental health has mainly focused on postpartum depression in past decades. Given adverse outcomes of antenatal anxiety, there is an urgent need to fill the research gaps. The objectives of the present study were to determine the prevalence of antenatal anxiety symptoms and examine the risk factors and effects of anxiety symptoms in early pregnancy on anxiety and depressive symptoms in later pregnancy and early postpartum period. Methodology: A prospective longitudinal design with quantitative approach was adopted. A consecutive sample of 1470 Chinese pregnant women from hospitals in Hong Kong was invited to participate in the study and was assessed using standardized instruments on 3 time points including first and third trimesters of pregnancy and 6-week postpartum. Results: The results showed that 17.7% of pregnant women manifested anxiety symptoms in the first trimester of pregnancy. Single mothers, younger mothers, mothers who smoked before pregnancy and mothers who received low education level reported significantly higher levels of anxiety symptoms in the first trimester. Unwanted pregnancy, low self esteem, low marital satisfaction and perceived low social support were significant psychosocial risk factors for anxiety symptoms in the first trimester. Anxiety symptoms in the first trimester were independent predictors for anxiety symptoms in the third trimester ( QUOTE β = 0.26, t = 5.74, p < 0.001), however anxiety symptoms in the first trimester no longer significantly predicted anxiety and depressive symptoms in 6 weeks postpartum after adjusting for the effects of potential confounders. Discussions: The present study points to the need for greater research and clinical attention to antenatal anxiety given that antenatal anxiety is a prevalent problem and has serious impacts on maternal well-being. Such findings also contribute to the understanding of maternal anxiety and have implications for the design of effective identification, prevention and treatment of these significant clinical
文摘The Dandy-Walker syndrome (DWS) can be accurately diagnosed in utero by sonographic demonstration of characteristic morphologic changes of the fetus, which includes hydrocephalus, incomplete cerebellar vermis and a posterior fossa cyst. We present a case of Dandy-Walker syndrome diagnosed antenatally. The assoiacted anomalies are reviewed, and the value of antenatal diagnosis is discussed.
文摘Since anemia is one of the most skyrocketed public health problems worldwide, an investigation has thus been conducted to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anemia among the pregnant women receiving antenatal care (ANC) at Fatima Hospital in Jashore, Bangladesh. Facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 384 pregnant women at Fatima hospital, Bangladesh from February to April, 2019. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire and participant’s current medical record card. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with anemia and a P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significance. The overall prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 58.9% (226/384). Out of 226 anemic pregnant mothers, 36.3% (82/226) were mildly anemic, 62.4% (141/226) were moderately anemic and 1.3% (3/384) was severely anemic. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the following variables were significantly associated with anemia: Monthly family income (11,000 - 20,000 Taka) [AOR (95% CI) = 0.45 (0.21 - 0.98)], Family size (joint) [AOR (95% CI) = 1.59 (1.03 - 2.45)], Gestational age (third trimester) [AOR (95% CI) = 2.18 (1.40 - 3.40)], birth spacing < 2 years [AOR (95% CI) = 2.87 (1.51 - 5.44)], Excessive blood loss during previous surgery (Yes) [AOR (95% CI) = 2.08 (1.14 - 4.17)], Food group eaten 24 hours (1 - 4 groups) [AOR (95% CI) = 3.43 (1.84 - 6.39)], Breakfast regularly (No) [AOR (95% CI) = 3.64 (1.36 - 9.75)]. The results obtained showed that the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women is severe at Fatima Hospital in Jashore, Bangladesh.
文摘Worldwide more than thousands of women and new born are at the danger of die from pregnancy and child delivery complications. Antenatal care (ANC)/ pregnancy care is the health care where expecting mothers and new born receive medical care or medical attention. The aim of this study is to examine factors affecting the utilization of antenatal care among married women of reproductive age in Merca, lower Shebelle, Somalia. Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional and qualitative study design that was carried out from June to August 2022 and this study was carried out in Merca, district lower Shabelle, Somalia. Data were collected from 325 married women of reproductive age who have at least one child and more than living in Merca district. Result: Our study found that the magnitude of antenatal care uptake was 31.1% during the examined period. Very low utilization of antenatal care in Somali women is worrying in the face of high vulnerability of maternal complications. In terms of age diverse and utilization of antenatal care, women in younger age group 15 - 30 were more to utilize antenatal care services than with women in older age group 31 years above (p-value < 0.007). Our study also identified that there is association between level of education and level of utilization among women about antenatal care services (p-value < 0.001). In terms of level of awareness about antenatal care services, it is significantly associated with the level of utilization antenatal care (p-value < 0.001). Our study identified that the number of complaining complications related previous pregnancy that have no awareness about antenatal care services was higher than number of utilized antennal care awareness about antenatal care (p-value < 0.001). Based on these results, it is recommended to improve women’s awareness about antenatal care services by using health education program.
文摘Background: Late antenatal care attendance among pregnant women at health facilities remains a significant public health problem. Globally, approximately 830 women die every day due to pregnancy-related complications and 99% of these deaths occur in developing countries whereby 86% of pregnant women access Antenatal Care (ANC) services at least once. Objective: The general objective of the study was to determine factors associated with late antenatal care seeking behavior among pregnant women at Kyenjojo general hospital. Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study design that considered quantitative data collection methods among pregnant women attending ANC. The sample size was determined using Kish and Leslie (1969) formula using a proportion of 37% (0.37) of women who sought late ANC. A systematic sampling technique was used to sample pregnant women on daily basis. Results: A total of 283 women participated in the study. Spouse’s occupation was significantly associated with late ANC attendance (p = 0.026). On the other hand, education level of respondent (Fisher’s = 8.363, p = 0.028*), religion (Fisher’s = 5.77, p = 0.048*) and parity (Fisher’s 10.312, p = 0.026*) revealed statistically significant association with late ANC attendance. In multivariate logistic regression, on occupation, women with unemployed spouses were significantly associated with 25% increase in attendance of late ANC compared to those in formal employment (AOR = 0.25, CI: 0.073 - 0.855, p = 0.027*). Conclusion: The Majority of pregnant women sought ANC at 90.1% (n = 255). There’s a need for government to strengthen health promotion targeting women in rural communities.
文摘Background: Pregnant women receive antenatal care (ANC) to ensure favorable pregnancy outcomes. Despite the high ANC coverage rate registered nationally in Cameroon;rural women, women with no formal education and those in the most deprived quintile still face difficulties in having access to quality ANC. The impact of the aforementioned factors on ANC use in the Muea Health Area (MHA) is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of women attending ANC and the factors influencing ANC attendance in the MHA. Materials and Methods: This was a community based, analytical, cross sectional survey that involved pregnant women and women with children less than two years old who gave an informed consent or assent. Data were collected using a semi structured questionnaire. EPI info Version 7 and Stat Pac for Windows version 12??1998-2011 (Stat Pac Inc, Bloomington, USA) were used for data analysis. Associations were considered statistically significant for p values less than 0.05. Results: Two hundred and twenty women were interviewed. The mean age was 25 years (SD 5.28). Ninety-nine percent of women had at least one ANC visit meanwhile 84.8% had at least four ANC visits. Only 27.2% of women booked for ANC in the first trimester. Rural (Maumu) residence was associated with inappropriate ANC attendance (attending less than four times) (χ2?= 18.5;p = 0.001). Semi urban women (87%;95% C.I. = 85.10% - 89.0%) were more likely to attend four or more sessions than rural (Maumu) women (60.7%;95% C.I. = 44.2% - 77.3%) (p = 0.001). Participant’s educational level was a significant predictor of early booking for ANC (χ2?= 26.8;p = 0.0002). Semi urban wom- en (79.1%;95% C.I. = 76.0% - 82.2%) were significantly more likely to have a vaginal examination done than rural (Maumu) women (42.1%;95% C.I. = 17.5% - 68.2%) (p = 0.0001). Women who met a doctor during ANC (84.0%;95% C.I. = 80.8% - 87.0%) were more likely to have a vaginal examination done than women who only met a nurse or a midwife during ANC (65.0%;95% C.I. = 57.7% - 71.4%) (p = 0.002). One third of women did not have a vaginal examination performed?during ANC. 45.83% and 47.6% neither did a stool test nor received an insecticide treated net (ITN) respectively. Conclusion: Women in the MHA start their antenatal care late, so they should be encouraged to book early for antenatal surveillance. Furthermore, efforts should be made to increase the access of these women to quality ANC services and to adequately trained ANC providers.
文摘Objective: Effective confirmation of pregnancy is a basic component of reproductive health services. It is a determinant for accessing antenatal care (ANC) if the pregnancy is wanted and abortion services if the pregnancy is unwanted. This study examined the effect of urine pregnancy testing in the timing of presentation for pregnancy care. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 women presenting for antenatal care and 300 women presenting for abortion at private sector clinics in Western Nigeria. Results: The median age at first presentation was 20 weeks for ANC clients and 8 weeks for abortion clients. Obtaining urine pregnancy test of one’s accord was associated with a decrease in the gestational age at presentation of 3.7 weeks and 1.5 weeks for antenatal and abortion clients, respectively, independent of all other factors. Conclusion: Bearing in mind that the clinical benefit and public health impact of early presentation for antenatal and abortion services are unequivocal, strategies aimed at decreasing gestational age at presentation for pregnancy care should be given priority. “Fast-track” urine pregnancy testing services should be promoted in the private and public clinics in Nigeria.
文摘Objectives: This study empirically assesses the impact of the changes in women’s characteristics, empowerment, availability and quality of health services on woman’s decision to use antenatal care (ANC) and the frequency of that use during the period 2000-2008. Study Design: The study is a cross-sectional analytical study using 2000 and 2008 Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys. Methods: The assessment of the studied impact is conducted using the Zero-inflated Negative Binomial Regression. In addition, Factor Analysis technique is used to construct some of the explanatory variables such as women’s empowerment, the availability and quality of health services indicators. Results: Utilization of antenatal health care services is greatly improved from 2000 to 2008. Availability of health services is one of the main determinants that affect the number of antenatal care visits in 2008. Wealth index and quality of health services play an important role in raising the level of antenatal care utilization in 2000 and 2008. However, the impact of the terminated pregnancy on receiving ANC increased over time. Conclusions: Further research of the determinants of antenatal health care utilization is needed, using more updated measures of women’s empowerment, availability and quality of health services. In order to improve the provision of antenatal health care services, it is important to understand barriers to antenatal health care utilization. Therefore, it is advisable to collect information from women about the reasons for not receiving antenatal care.
基金supported by“Fudan Global Health Seed Grant(Grant No CMB13-131)of China”.
文摘Aim:The study aimed to explore factors related to the initiation and utilization of focused antenatal care(FANC)in the Southern District of Mzimba,Malawi.Methods:This study used an exploratory qualitative design.Total of 22 in-depth interviews with pregnant women and community midwife assistants were conducted from December 2015 to January 2016 in Mzimba.Thematic analysis approach was adopted to identify the facilitator and harriers of the FANC initiation and utilization.Results:Facilitator of FANC initiation and utilization included seeking pregnancy confirmation,medical treatment for an existing health problem and the support by community health extension workers.Barriers included the additional cost to free FANC service,lack of essential equipment,unfriendly adolescent reproductive health service,and HIV stigma.Conclusion:Early initiation of FANC relies on both woman’s awareness and community support.Promoting the use of FANC should focus on creating an enabling environment,e.g.,increasing investment of essential medical equipment,reducing additional costs of FANC services,eliminating the discrimination against adolescent pregnancy and people living with HIV,and strengthening health personnel’s training.
文摘With the increasing use of ultrasonography,congenital anomalies are often picked in utero.Antenatally detected hydronephrosis is amongst the most commonly detected abnormality.The management of this condition has raised considerable debate amongst clinicians dealing with it.This article is written with an idea to provide comprehensive information regarding the postnatal management of antenatally detected hydronephrosis.A detailed review of the current literature on this topic is provided.Also,guidelines have been given to facilitate the management of this condition.
文摘Objective:To assess the prevalence of anemia and asymptomatia malaria parasitemia and the effect of prior antimalarials therapy on the parasite density in pregnant women at their first antenatal visit at the secondary level health care facility in Nigeria.Methods:This cross sectional observational study was carried out in the antenatal clinic of General Hospital,Ikot Ekpene,Akwa Ibom State,Nigeria for 3 months period(1<sup>st</sup> June to 31<sup>st</sup> August,2009).Five hundred and fourteen women attending their first antenatal registration visits in the hospital were recruited in the study.Socio-demographic information was obtained using pre-tested questionnaires.The malaria parasite was obtained by examining thick and thin blood films prepared on 2 glass slides while the hematocrit was obtained through 2 capillary tubes read by a Hawksleys microhematocrit reader.Results:A total of 514 pregnant women participated in the study with a mean maternal age of 21.4 years and a mean gestational age at booking of 18.3 weeks.The primigravid women booked at significantly lower gestational age than multigravidae （16.2 weeks vs 21.6 weeks）.Most of the women（59.3%） were anemic,out of which 60.4%were primigravida.More than half of the women had moderate to high parasite density and only 6.8% had no malaria parasitemia.All patients with severe anemia were parasitemic.Out of the 479 （93.2%） women with parasitemia,a third had taken antimalarial drugs.A majority（60.3%） of those without prior antimalarial drugs had moderate to high density parasitemia.Conclusions: This study shows high prevalence of anemia in women with asymptomatic malarial parasitemia, particularly the primigravida.The severity of anemia is directly related to the density of malaria parasitemia.Those with effective antimalarial therapy appear to have low density parasitemia and therefore mild anemia.Routine screening for anemia and malaria parasites at booking,prompt parasite clearance and correction of anemia would reduce the associated maternal and perinatal complications.
文摘Aim: This study seeks to investigate the factors determining the utilization of antenatal care services, the frequency of that use, and the timing of receiving antenatal care among Egyptian women utilizing a national representative data from Egypt Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS) in 2000 and 2014. Methods: The paper estimates the logistic regression model, zero-inflated negative binomial model (ZINB), and negative binomial regression model (NB) to identify the most important determinants of antenatal health care utilization. Results: The findings indicate that the period 2000-2014 has experienced a significant increase in the use of antenatal health care services. The use of the public sector antenatal care services relative to that of the private sector has been decreasing over time. Moreover, wealth index, women’s education and quality of health services play significant roles in increasing accessibility of antenatal health care services. On the other hand, women’s empowerment has shown a positive effect in 2000 only. Conclusion: The study highlights the most vulnerable groups that are less likely to have access to antenatal health care services, mainly women who are less educated, poor and living in rural areas especially Upper Egypt. This certainly requires a more targeted health strategy with an equity lens.
文摘An understanding of factors influencing haemoglobin (Hb) level among antenatal mothers can help healthcare providers assess, take appropriate action and manage anaemia in this risk group more effectively. A cross-sectional study was conducted in urban areas in Malaysia to determine the Hb levels of antenatal mothers and their association with various socio-economic characteristics. Data for this study were collected from pregnant women during their first antenatal check-up at three selected polyclinics in Malaysia. Anaemia in pregnancy was determined by the Hb level recorded during the first and the last antenatal visits. Determination of Hb was either by a photo calorimetric method or by the Sahliís method. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to identify the factors influencing Hb level among the antenatal mothers. This study found that 73 out of 217 mothers (33%) were anaemic in that their Hb levels were below 11.00 g/dl. The findings also suggested that Hb levels among the antenatal mothers were influenced by various factors such as education level, occupation, and family income. Anaemia was generally more common among antenatal mothers who had a lower level of education and who were from a background of lower family income.
