The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of India
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ORIGINAL ARTICLES

ORIGINAL ARTICLES
GYNECOLOGY

Aspiration with Diosmin Intake in Endometrial Cavity Fluid Accumulation in ART Cycles: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Ahmed Samy Saad1 · Khalid Abd Aziz Mohamed1

Background This was a prospective randomized controlled trial in 200 cases presented with endometrial cavity fluid at the day of oocyte retrieval at a private fertility center from 2013 to 2021. The cases were randomized at day of ovum pickup into 2 groups: Group 1 (control group) (n = 100): conventional management with follow-up and reassessment by transvaginal ultrasound on day 5. Group 2 (interventional group) (n = 100): aspiration of the fluid was done and cases were given diosmin 500 mg 3 times per day till reassessment at embryo transfer day. In both groups, we proceeded with fresh embryo transfer if no fluid is present on day 5 or freeze-all policy if persistent fluid was detected.

Results Endometrial fluid on the 5th day was significantly higher in the control group (28.0%) than in the interventional group (6.0%) (P < 0.001). Regarding pregnancy rate, although being higher in the interventional group (54.3% vs 50.0%), the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.5). It was found that the intervention was associated with risk reduction of endometrial fluid (OR = 0.168, 95% CI = 0.065–0.429, P < 0.001.

Conclusion Aspiration of endometrial cavity fluid with diosmin intake increased the likelihood of fresh embryo transfer and with a slightly better pregnancy rate compared to conservative management. Clinical trial number: NCT02158000, Date of registration: 6/6/2014, Date of initial enrollment (first patient recruiting): 1/11/2014, URL: https:// clini caltr ials. gov/ ct2/ show/ NCT02 158000.

Endometrial fluid · Diosmin · Complications of ART cycles
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GYNECOLOGY

Deep Inception‑ResNet: A Novel Approach for Personalized Prediction of Cumulative Pregnancy Outcomes in Vitro Fertilization Treatment (IVF)

Gaurav Majumdar2 · Abhishek Sengupta1 · Priyanka Narad1 · Harshita Pandey1
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GYNECOLOGY

Improved Pregnancy Outcomes and Endometrial Receptivity by Thawed Frozen Embryo Transfer in Mildly Stimulated Cycles with Letrozole Combined with Estrogen in Women with Unresponsive Thin Endometrium Compared to Standard Endometrial Preparation with Estrogen Alone: A Retrospective Study

Narayana Nagaraja1 · S. D. Poddar2 · Seema Rai1 · Vishesh Verma3 · Kumar Abhisheka4 · Abha Khurana1

Context Infertile women undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles may not show optimal endometrial growth with estrogens alone. Aim To evaluate clinical effect of mild stimulation with letrozole and estrogens on endometrial growth in comparison to standard endometrial preparation with oral and topical estrogens in infertile women with unresponsive thin endometrium undergoing FET. Settings and design Retrospective observational case–control study.

Material and methods Forty women unresponsive to first AC-FET cycle were given mild stimulation with letrozole and estrogens as second LE-FET cycle for endometrial preparation (LE-FET study group) and compared with 40 historical controls who had received two cycles of AC-FET (AC-FET control group). Responses were assessed by optimal endometrial thickness (≥ 7 mm) and clinical pregnancy.

Statistical analysis Descriptive statistics were elaborated by mean ± SD and percentages. Results were expressed by mean ± SD, unpaired t test for difference in endometrial thickness, chi square and Fisher exact test to compare the difference in pregnancy among both groups.

Results Mean endometrial thickness was significantly increased in LE-FET study group (6.68 ± 2.09 mm) versus AC-FET control group (5.35 ± 1.90 mm). Higher clinical pregnancy rate was noted in study group as compared to control group (35% versus 12.5%).

Conclusion This study suggests that letrozole with estradiol (LE-FET) compared to estradiol alone (AC-FET) for second cycle significantly increased endometrial thickness and improved clinical pregnancy rates in women with unresponsive thin endometrium after first AC-FET cycle with estradiol alone. Addition of letrozole to estrogen upfront for FET cycles may enhance endometrial receptivity and might improve pregnancy outcomes.

Letrozole · Infertility · Frozen embryo transfer · Endometrial thickness
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OBSTETRICS

Pregnancies in Elderly Mothers over 40 years: What to Expect from the Rising New Age High‑Risk Cohort?

Sunil E. Tambvekar1 · Shilpa Adki2 · Nozer K. Sheriar3

Introduction Elderly women are believed to experience many risks associated with pregnancy. Literature fails to provide a clear consensus on the age group in which there is a rise in risk and pathophysiology contributing. ‘Pregnancies over forty’ are increasing in society, owing to changing lifestyles and sensibilities of youth and the advent of assisted reproductive techniques. In India, studies on elderly pregnant women above 40 years of age are lacking. The aim of this study is to assess these pregnancies, their course, obstetric and perinatal outcomes in women delivering above 40 years.

Methods The study group (Group A) comprised of pregnancies in 50 women at age ≥ 40 years on the date of delivery. The control group (Group B) had 50 women who delivered subsequent to the study group and age < 40. Various parameters and outcomes including parity, gestational age, number of gestations, co-existing medical illnesses, the incidence of hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), pre-term labor, mode of delivery, birth weight and obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared. Chi-square test and independent T test were used for statistical analysis.

Results While a good number of patients conceived spontaneously and with basic infertility management, i.e., 84% in the elderly gravid group (Group A) and 96% in the control group (Group B), the number of patients who required ART in Group A were statistically significant (Group A 16% and Group B 4%). Incidence of pre-existing medical diseases like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction, other auto-immune diseases and chronic diseases were noted to be high (26%) in Group A (statistically significant difference). Incidence of HDP, GDM and fetal growth restriction were high in Group A. Tendency to have the presence of fibroid uterus was high in patients in Group A, i.e., 24%, compared to only 8% in the control group; difference was statistically significant. Proportion of pre-term deliveries were high in Group A. Cesarean section rate was high in Group A, though it was not statistically significant. Other perinatal observations and neonatal outcomes were comparable in both groups; differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion The study reveals an association of a high-risk course of pregnancies in women above the age of 40 years. Proportions of IVF pregnancies are higher in elderly women. Interestingly, the proportion of women in elderly group who conceived spontaneously and with basic infertility management including IUI was 84% in the present study. Medical comorbidities and incidence of fibroids were high in elderly women. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes of these pregnancies when managed efficiently are favorable.

Advanced maternal age · Pregnancy above 40 years of age · High-risk pregnancy
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Retained Products of Conception(RPOC): Diagnosis, Complications and Management

Sushil Chawla1 · Rajesh Sharma1

Introduction Retained products of conception (RPOC) generally results after first half of pregnancy termination and also may occur after the vaginal or cesarean delivery. It frequently presents with irregular or continuous vaginal bleeding, lower abdominal and pelvic pain, and discharge per vaginum due to infection; it can also cause late complications like formation of intrauterine adhesions and subfertility. The diagnosis of the RPOC with the symptoms is generally supported by ultrasonog- raphy with or without colour Doppler. The patient also undergoes uterine vasculature assessment to diagnose arteriovenous malformation (AVM). The management of RPOC has been conventionally done with blind dilation and suction curettage (D and C); however, expectant management, uterine artery embolization, and hysteroscopic resection of RPOC are safe and efficient alternatives. Materials and methods In this review, we analyse the current available evidence regarding the clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of RPOC comparing the sensitivity, specificity, outcomes, pros and cons of various methods. Conclusion RPOC is common complication associated with early and late complications. The judicious use of antibiotics along with interventional radiology and hysteroscopy forms the backbone for the treatment of this condition.

Retained products of conception · Hysteroscopy · Intrauterine adhesions · Uterine arteriovenous malformation
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OBSTETRICS

Double/Triple Intrauterine Blood Transfusion in Rh-isoimmunized Anemic Fetuses in Multiple Pregnancies with Favorable Outcome

Vandana Bansal1 · Meera Jayaprakash1 · Akshay Gangurde1

Background Multiple pregnancies have increased with the use of assisted reproduction, and we expect more women reporting with Rh isoimmunization among multiple gestation in near future. Intrauterine transfusion in singleton itself is technically difficult and requires a lot of skill and precision. Performing double/triple transfusion in twins/triplets is expected to be more demanding.

Aim To create awareness on the technical difficulties encountered in intrauterine transfusion in twins and triplets.

Methodology We report a case series of four Rh-isoimmunized twins/triplets in 5 years who presented with severe anemia requiring intrauterine transfusion.

Results Each of the four sets of cases had their own intricacies that needed to be pondered before tackling them as not much was available in the literature. In Case 1, the first twin intrauterine transfusion in our 20-year-long experience, the difficulty in the approach to the first twin due to a posteriorly placed placenta has been highlighted. Case 2 was rare due to the concomitant presence of atypical antibodies in the mother in addition to Rh-D isoimmunization that made it difficult to cross match any donor blood for intrauterine transfusion. The third case was exclusive due to its monochorionic–diamniotic nature of the twins where the impact of inter-twin anastomosis on the transfusion was to be taken into consideration. Fourth case was a triplet gestation where the difficulty of which cord to be assigned to which fetus, the crowded space for intervention, as well as the risk of prolonged operative time and associated risk of preterm/premature rupture of membranes were our concern. Conclusion Intrauterine transfusion (IUT) in twins/triplets is challenging. Difficulties encountered during IUT in multifetal gestation are due to different or uncertain chorionicity, intraplacental anastomosis between vessels, different degree of anemia in twins, difficult to ascertain cord–fetus relationship and difficulty to reach placental insertion site due to crowding by multiple fetal parts.

Fetal anemia · Intrauterine transfusion · Rh isoimmunization · Twin transfusion · Twin intrauterine transfusion
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OBSTETRICS

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Shrouded High-Risk Association for Development of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Vinita Sarbhai1 · Pooja Paswan2 · Vikram Sarbhai3

Background This objective of this study was to diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) in pregnant women using Questionnaire-based methods and to determine any association of Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) with Hypertensive Disorder of Pregnancy (HDP). Additionally, the study aimed to identify factors associated with OSA.

Methods This case–control study was conducted in department of Obstetrics in tertiary care hospital in Delhi. We Identified SDB using Berlin Questionnaire and Modified Stop-Bang Questionnaire in 100 pregnant women with Hypertension and 100 normotensive controls. We compared the groups using appropriate statistical analysis.

Results The mean age of women with HDP (25.46 ± 4.38) was found to be slightly higher than controls (24.13 ± 3.89) (p value-0.02). Sleep apnoea as depicted by the presence of either high-risk STOP Bang or Berlin score was seen more often in hypertensive women in 45% as compared to controls in 8% (p value < 0.001). Higher pre-pregnancy weight (58.58 ± 9.77 vs. 53.0 ± 6.59), higher BMI (24.03 ± 5.89 vs. 20.68 ± 1.49), higher mean neck circumference (14.97 vs. 14.27 inches) weight gain more than 11 kg during pregnancy (55.6% vs. 38.2%) were the high-risk factors more commonly associated with SDB as seen in women with OSA in hypertensive women. On logistic regression analysis, the presence of OSA was singularly responsible for development of Hypertension (Odds Ratio–13.014, 95% CI 5.237–32.337) (p value < 0.001).

Conclusion Gestational hypertension appears to be strongly associated with the presence of obstructive sleep apnoea. The recognition and treatment of OSA during pregnancy may lead to improved outcomes.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) · Preeclampsia · Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) · Obstructive sleep Apnoea (OSA) · Stop-Bang Questionnaire · Berlin Questionnaire
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OBSTETRICS

A Cross-Sectional Survey of 505 Postpartum Women to Assess Lifestyle-Related Behaviour, Barriers, and Myths Affecting Postpartum Weight Retention and Its Management.

Archana Kumari1 · Piyush Ranjan2 · Wareesha Anwar3 · Divjyot Kaur3 · Ashish Datt Upadhyay4 · Anita Malhotra5 · Naval Kishore Vikram2

Background/Purpose This study aims to assess lifestyle-related factors such as diet, physical activity and sleep along with common myths, beliefs, and barriers to a healthy lifestyle and resultant postpartum weight retention. It has also explored the association of the aforementioned factors with socio-demographic variables.

Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a comprehensive pre-validated questionnaire on a convenience sample of postpartum women using a telephonic interview schedule.

Results A total of 505 postpartum women were recruited with median postpartum weight retention of 5 kg. More than half of the participants had incorrect dietary practices with less than one-tenth of women indulging in low/moderate-intensity physical activity. Postpartum women had poorer diet (p < 0.05) and sleep (p < 0.01) in the initial phase postpartum as compared to late postpartum. These women were also less physically active in the initial months and as the postpartum period progressed their physical activity also improved significantly (p < 0.001). Socio-demographic variables such as socio-economic status, education, and employment status were significantly associated with unhealthy lifestyle practices. Common barriers were lack of knowledge, time constraints, lack of childcare support and cultural myths and beliefs.

Conclusion The findings of the study will help in developing a comprehensive women-centric weight management module focusing on practical guidelines for lifestyle, breastfeeding and other confounding factors associated with postpartum weight management.

Postpartum period · Overweight · Obesity · Lifestyle · Weight management
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OBSTETRICS

Ultrasonographic Measurement of Fetal Adrenal Gland Size for the Prediction of Success of Induction of Labor Among Primigravida Beyond 40 Weeks Gestation

Richa Sharma1 · Anjali Kumari1 · Anupama Tandon2 · Amita Suneja1 · Kiran Guleria1

Introduction As the pregnancy advances beyond term, the risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality increases. Hence to prevent these complications associated with postterm pregnancy, induction of labor is done, as per our institution protocol between 40 and 41 weeks of gestation. Induction has its own drawback, so it is essential to identify the women with high chances of failure of induction of labor, to prevent the morbidities associated with induction failure.

Aim To study the role of ultrasonographic fetal adrenal gland enlargement for the prediction of success of labor induction among primigravida beyond 40 weeks gestation.

Material and Methods Low-risk primigravidas beyond 40 weeks gestation, scheduled for induction of labor, were enrolled for the study. Fetal adrenal gland dimensions were measured by using abdominal probe Philips HD 7XE and general electronics logiq P6 pro or any ultrasound machine equipped with 7.5–10 MHz linear array probe and 3.5–5 MHz curved array probe.

Results The fetal adrenal gland length, width and ratio were statistically significant between the successful versus failed induction groups. The cutoff fetal zone ratio > 0.36 for the prediction of successful induction of labor had 90% sensitivity, 89% specificity, 93% PPV and 75% NPV.

Conclusion Fetal zone enlargement (fetal zone ratio > 0.36) is a strong predictor of successful induction of labor as compared to TVL and Bishop’s score. It can be used for screening the women, who are destined for induction failure, so that adverse effects of induction of labor can be avoided.

Postterm pregnancy · Fetal adrenal gland · Fetal gland ratio · Fetal zone ratio · Fetal adrenal gland enlargement
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GYNECOLOGY

Survival Rate in Cancer Cervix Patients in a Regional Cancer Centre of South India: A Retrospective Analysis

Sakthi Usha Devi Jeevarajan1 · Prasanna Srinivasa Rao Harikrishnan1 · T. D. Balamurugan1 · Ajay Kumar Arunachalam1

Context Carcinoma Cervix is one of the leading prevalent cancers in India especially in rural population and causes a significant mortality. WHO has launched many projects for prevention, screening and treatment plans. Even after many projects, Cervical Cancer persists as a heavy burden public health problem in rural India.

Aims To calculate survival of cancer cervix patients in a rural population-based RCC and to discuss the factors affecting it.

Methods and Material A hospital-based gathering of retrospective data of the patients diagnosed with carcinoma cervix over 5 years from January 2013 to December 2017 (single institution analysis). We included 751 patient’s data from our cancer registry for analysis. Data related to demographics, treatment and follow up records were taken and statistical analysis done.

Results The survival rates were 64.0%, 50.0%, 36.9% and 17.5% for Stage I, Stage II, Stage III and Stage IV, respectively. The best survival outcomes were for those treated with only surgery. Involvement of nodes had poor survival than those with no involvement. Various patient-related factors like Religion, Education and Marital status are found to be non-significant factors even-though they have survival differences. STAGE of the disease emerged as a significant prognostic factor.

Conclusion Our study concluded that higher stage and nodal involvement had poor outcomes and also lower survival compared to Western and Indian literature. We should also address all the socio-economic factors that affects survival. Randomized prospective studies are needed to evaluate the effect of socio-economic factors on survival.

Cervical cancer · Rural · Socio-economic · Stage · Survival
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GYNECOLOGY

Endometriosis Resection Using Nerve Sparing Versus Non-nerve Sparing Surgical Techniques

Shailesh P. Puntambekar1 · Sneha Venkateswaran1 · Saranya Naidu1 · Maitreyee Parulekar1 · Madhavi Patil1 · Sravya Inampudi1 · Mihir Chitale1 · Suyog Bharambe1 · Aishwarya Puntambekar1 · Kshitij Manerikar1 · Seema Puntambekar1

Introduction Endometriosis is the condition in which there are ectopic endometrial tissues outside the uterine cavity. The use of nerve sparing technique has been well established in the field of oncology, leading to better quality of life following radical oncologic procedures without compromising on the long-term survival. The objective of this study is to compare the quality of life in terms of sexual function and urinary function in women undergoing nerve sparing surgeries for endometriosis and those undergoing non-nerve sparing surgeries.

Material and Methods Data of 51 patients operated for endometriosis at Galaxy Care Laparoscopic Institute, Pune, India between 1st January 2020 till 31st December 2020 were collected and analysed. We included patients in age group between 38 and 44 years in monogamous relationship, with moderate to severe endometriosis (Revised American Society of Reproductive Medicine r-ASRM score of 16 and above 5), being operated for hysterectomy along with ureterolysis and/or bowel resection (including shaving of rectal endometriosis, discoid resection, segmental resection), and excision of large ovarian endometriomas (> 3 cm size) with cul-de-sac obliteration.

Results The patients were evaluated for the following factors: age, parity, nature of surgery done, immediate intraoperative complications (bowel injury, bladder injury, ureteric injury), operative time in minutes, average blood loss, length of hospital stay, days to removal of foley’s catheter and postoperative urinary and sexual function which were assessed on follow up visit and a 1-year follow up interview. We found that the urinary and sexual function in the group undergoing nerve sparing surgeries was significantly better than the patients undergoing non-nerve sparing surgeries.

Conclusion Laparoscopic nerve sparing approach for clearance of endometriosis has allowed better quality of life post surgery. Proper understanding and demonstration of pelvic neuroanatomy has made this approach feasible and achievable in carefully selected patients.

Endometriosis · Laparoscopy · Nerve sparing · Hypogastric plexus
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GYNECOLOGY

Randomised Control Study of Misoprostol and Mifepristone versus Misoprostol Alone in Second Trimester Termination of Pregnancy

Ajit Kumar Nayak1 · Swetalin Mishra1 · Subhasri Mishra2 · Ranjita Patnaik3 · Ipsita Mohapatra1

 Introduction This study was done to assess and compare the efficacy and safety of mifepristone and misoprostol combination versus misoprostol alone for second trimester termination of pregnancy in relation to induction abortion interval, average amount of misoprostol required in each group, success rate and side effects.

Materials and Methods This randomised control study was conducted on 100 women admitted in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, S.C.B. Medical College & Hospital, Cuttack, for second trimester termination of pregnancy, divided into two groups, Group A and Group B of 50 patients each. Group A patients received 200 mg of oral mifepristone followed by 400 mcg of vaginal misoprostol after 48 h, and then 400 mcg of vaginal misoprostol every 3 hourly until complete expulsion or up to a maximum of 6 doses. Group B patients received 400 mcg of vaginal misoprostol every 3 hourly until complete expulsion or up to maximum 6 doses.

Results Complete abortion was seen in 92% and 72% cases in Group A and Group B, respectively. Mean induction abortion interval was 11.59 ± 2.71 h in Group A and 15.57 ± 2.27 h in Group B (p value < 0.001). The average dose of misoprostol required was less in combination regimen, i.e. 1128 ± 384 mcg compared to 1680 ± 302 mcg in misoprostol alone group (p value < 0.001). Side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea were less in combination regimen than misoprostol alone group.

Conclusion Mifepristone and misoprostol combination is more effective and safer alternative than misoprostol alone in second trimester termination of pregnancy.

Second trimester termination of pregnancy · Mifepristone · Misoprostol · Induction–abortion interval
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GYNECOLOGY

Ambulatory Hysteroscopy: Evaluating Pain and Determining Factors

Avisha Malu1 · Meenal Patvekar1 · Dipak Kolate1 · Kale Dhana Laxmi1

Study objective To measure pain using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and analyse its relationships with variables such as menopausal status, parity, uterine and cervical pathology, procedure length, and anxiety in patients undergoing ambulatory hysteroscopy (AH). Design Prospective observational study. Setting Dr DY Patil Medical Hospital and Research Centre, Dr.D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune. Patients Seventy-five women. Intervention Ambulatory hysteroscopy(AH).

Methodology AH was performed in seventy-five patients using vaginoscopic approach. At the end of the procedure, the intensity of pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), from the score of 0 (no pain) to 10 (intolerable pain). The factors determining pain were assessed.

Results Patients who underwent AH reported mild pain in 66% of cases, moderate pain in 22%, and severe pain in 12% of cases. The most frequent reason for referral was abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). In the moderate pain group, the bivariate analysis was statistically significant for menopausal status (P values < 0.001), cervical pathology (< 0.001), and duration of procedure (0.001) and in multivariate analysis nulliparity (0.001) and menopausal status (0.001) were the significant determining factors. In severe pain group, the bivariate analysis was statistically significant for cervical pathology (P value = 0.001) and in multivariate analysis cervical pathology (0.003) and uterine pathology (0.002) were the significant determining factors.

Conclusion Hysteroscopy is a safe, painless and a gold standard procedure. Pain experienced during AH was significantly influenced by cervical pathology. Gynaecologists in practise should receive training and start using AH to assess the endometrial cavity.

Ambulatory hysteroscopy · Factors · Pain
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GYNECOLOGY

A Rapid, Sensitive and Type-Specific Detection of High-Risk HPV-16 and HPV-18

Sanjay Gupte1,2 · Sreeja Parthasarathy2 · Preeti Arora2 · Sharvari Ozalkar2 · Shweta Jangam2 · Ketaki Rajwade2 · Pradnya Nikam2 · Sarjan Shah2
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly infection with HPVs 16 and 18, is a major cause of cervical cancer. The current high-risk HPV screening or diagnosis tests use cytological or molecular techniques that are primarily based on qualitative HPV DNA detection. Comparative studies, however, revealed that different assays have varying sensitivities for detecting specific HPV types. Here, we developed and optimized a sensitive PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) assay for detection of high-risk HPV-16 and HPV-18. The PCR parameters were optimized, and analytical specificities were validated. Performance of developed PCR assay was evaluated in clinical samples (n = 100) which showed 100% specificity for both the assays and 96.97% and 94.12% sensitivity for HPV-16 and HPV-18, respectively. The developed assay demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for detection of high-risk HPV-16 and HPV-18, making it applicable to routine HPV detection practices. Human papillomavirus · PCR · Detection · Cervical cancer
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OBSTETRICS

Introducing Birth Companion in Labour: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Ayesha Ahmad

Background Birth companion (BC) has been globally recognised as an essential component of childbirth care. As our institution did not allow BC in labour, this study was planned as a quality improvement (QI) project to introduce the concept. We aimed to achieve birth companionship from existing 0 to 100% over a period of six months.

Intervention QI team was constituted, and an initial brainstorming session conducted. A fishbone diagram was drawn to analyse issues that need addressal before implementation of the initiative. The framework was defined, and team members assigned their roles and responsibilities. A series of five successive Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were carried out over a period of six months, which included introduction of the concept, dissemination of information, infrastructural changes in labour room and introducing column for documentation in birth register. To achieve sustainability, comprehensive group counselling sessions were started for women during antenatal period, and sensitisation classes were regularly conducted for newly inducted trainees and faculty.

Result Birth companionship was achieved in 98% of cases.

Conclusion The QI tools helped in preparation and planning of changes by breaking down a large problem into smaller sections and covering all aspects of challenges in a systematic manner using team-based approach. National directives and recommendations, sensitisation of leadership and training of stakeholders were found to be important facilitators. Robust systems of monitoring and successive PDSA cycles were needed for continuous improvement and sustainability of the idea.

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OBSTETRICS

Factors Associated with Perinatal Mortality in Adult Pregnant Women with Hypertensive Disorders: A Case–Control Study

John Blessy

Background Hypertension complicates 5–10% of pregnancies and is a common cause of perinatal death. The perinatal mortality is estimated to be 3 to 5 times higher in hypertensive women compared to those without hypertension.

Methods A hypertensive mother either with a stillbirth or if baby died within 7 days of life was included as a case. Once a case was recognized, the next two consecutive hypertensive mothers who delivered a live baby, who survived up to 7 days of life, were taken as controls. Fetuses with congenital malformations incompatible with life and multiple pregnancies were excluded from the study. One hundred and twelve women in cases and 224 women in controls were studied.

Results Among 112 cases of perinatal death, 70% had died in utero before labor. Among the 33 fetuses alive, 50% were born still after labor and 50% died within 7 days of birth. We found that early onset hypertension (< 34 weeks) (p-< 0.001 (Chi2-23.819)), gestational age at termination of 28–32 weeks (OR 2.76), value of serum creatinine > 1.1 mg/dl (OR 10.1), abruption (OR 6.2) and birth weight < 1.5 kg was significantly associated with perinatal mortality (p-0.007, OR 5.7). Abnormal Doppler findings was a predictor of perinatal deaths.

Conclusion Severely growth retarded fetuses in association with early onset severe preeclampsia are likely to die in utero and need vigilant monitoring antenatally. Abnormal umbilical artery Dopplers predict perinatal mortality. Caesarean section at the gestational age of ≥ 32 weeks and an estimated fetal weight of ≥ 1.2 kg in our hospital resulted in favorable outcome.

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OBSTETRICS

Retrospective Analysis of Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Its Psychological Impact during Hospital Admission

El-Skaan Rania

Background The aim of this study was to evaluate hyperemesis gravidarum in pregnant women and its psychological impact.

Methods This retrospective study included 109 pregnant females suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum admitted during 2019–2020 at Maternity Ain shams university hospital.

Results Disease severity and laboratory investigations such as Na and K levels (P = 0.007 and < 0.001, respectively) and serum creatinine level (P < 0.001) were significantly positively correlated. Depressive symptoms included guilt feeling for leaving family (49.5% patients), suicidal thoughts (9.2%), crying (56.9%) and lost concentration (33.9%).

Conclusions Medical staff should be aware of psychological impact of the disease and refer to specialists if needed.

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OBSTETRICS

Ambient Air Pollution: A New Intrauterine Environmental Toxin for Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight

Nigam Aruna

Background Urbanization and industrialization in developing and developed countries have led to rise of intrauterine environmental toxins—PM2.5, PM10, NO2 and Ozone.

Aim To determine association of ambient air pollution exposure with prematurity and low birth weight.

Materials and Methods It is a retrospective cohort study done from January 2021 till June 2022 in a tertiary care hospital, New Delhi. Purposive sampling was done, and for each patient, criteria pollutants exposure was recorded from the government recording stations nearest to her residence and pregnancy outcome correlated with same.

Results Total 1155 deliveries were recruited. Significant association was found between PM2.5 exposure and preterm birth during first trimester (p < 0.05). Significant association was found between ozone exposure and preterm birth during second trimester (p < 0.05). Significant association was also found between NO2 exposure and preterm birth during first and second trimester (p < 0.05). Maternal PM2.5 exposure during first trimester was significantly associated with low birth weight (p < 0.05). PM10 exposure during first trimester was significantly associated with low birth weight (p < 0.05).

Conclusion Current study reveals direct relationship between ambient air pollution exposure and pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth and low birth weight).

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OBSTETRICS

Misconceptions Regarding Essential Oral Health Care Amongst Pregnant Women Visiting a Tertiary Care Hospital in the State of Goa, India: A Descriptive Study

Gaunkar Ridhima

Background of the Study Myths regarding oral health are extensively prevalent and have considerable impact on pregnant women’s dental behaviour and practices. Thus, this study sought to understand misconceptions (pregnancy and early childhood oral care) and their determinants amongst pregnant women.

Methods A questionnaire designed to assess the participants' demographics, parity, oral health behaviour and misconceptions was administered to 305 pregnant women attending antenatal care. Oral health (DMFT, bleeding on probing and periodontal pocket) was examined. Independent t test, analysis of variance and linear regression were used for statistical computations.

Results Early childhood myths (5.54 ± 1.87) were more prevalent amongst the study population than pregnancy-related myths (3.28 ± 1.89). Bivariate analysis exhibited that myths were significantly more prevalent in mothers who were ≤ 30 years of age (8.79 ± 2.565), primi parous (8.90 ± 2.141), illiterate (9.07 ± 2.764) and who had never visited a dentist (8.46 ± 2.016). Both pregnancy and early childhood myth scores were positively correlated to DMFT (p = 0.00; p = 0.031). Educational status and age were significant negative predictors of myths with p values of 0.00 and 0.34, respectively. Parity emerged as the only significant positive predictor (p = 0.002).

Conclusion The high prevalence of myths in the present study advocates that standardized, culturally appropriate and simple educational messages need to be developed and delivered to break these misconceptions. Minimum one visit to a dental surgeon during second trimester should be advocated and encouraged for all pregnant women.

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OBSTETRICS

Perinatal Outcome in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH): A Single-Center Experience

Dadhwal Vatsla

Objective To study the perinatal outcome in fetuses diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

Methods Thirty-two pregnant women with antenatal diagnosis of CDH in fetus, who delivered between 2018 and 2021, were included in the study. Postnatally eventration of diaphragm was diagnosed in 3 neonates and were excluded.

Results The median gestational age at diagnosis was 23 weeks (IQR: 216–261 weeks). The mean O/E LHR was 34.88 ± 9.03%, and the O/E LHR was significantly lower in fetuses who did not survive (40.81 ± 4.25 vs 31.26 ± 9.33; p = 0.0037). On ROC analysis, at a cutoff of ≤ 32.93, O/E LHR had a specificity of 100% with a sensitivity of 72.22% in predicting mortality. Cases with liver herniation were not significantly different between survivors versus non-survivors. The overall survival rate was 37.93%, and the leading cause of death was severe persistent pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusion O/E LHR can predict mortality in neonates with antenatal diagnosis of CDH. The presence of pulmonary hypertension was the leading cause of death in these neonates.

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