| 1. |
- Graner, Sophie, 1971-, et al.
(författare)
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Maternal health care professionals' perspectives on the provision and use of antenatal and delivery care : a qualitative descriptive study in rural Vietnam
- 2010
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Ingår i: BMC Public Health. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2458. ; 10:1, s. 608-
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BACKGROUND: High quality maternal health care is an important tool to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality. Services offered should be evidence based and adapted to the local setting. This qualitative descriptive study explored the perspectives and experiences of midwives, assistant physicians and medical doctors on the content and quality of maternal health care in rural Vietnam. METHOD: The study was performed in a rural district in northern Vietnam. Four focus group discussions with health care professionals at primary health care level were conducted. The data was analysed using qualitative manifest and latent content analysis. Result Two main themes emerged: "Contextual conditions for maternal health care" and "Balancing between possibilities and constraints". Contextual conditions influenced both pregnant women's use of maternal health care and health care professionals' performance. The study participants stated that women's uses of maternal health care were influenced by economical constraints and cultural norms that impeded their autonomy in relation to childbearing. Structural constraints within the health care system included inadequate financing of the primary health care, resulting in lack of human resources, professional re-training and adequate equipment. CONCLUSION: Contextual conditions strongly influenced the performance and interaction between pregnant women and health care professionals within antenatal care and delivery care in a rural district of Vietnam. Although Vietnam is performing comparatively well in terms of low maternal and child mortality figures, this study revealed midwives' and other health care professionals' perceived difficulties in their daily work. It seemed maternal health care was under-resourced in terms of staff, equipment and continuing education activities. The cultural setting in Vietnam constituting a strong patriarchal society and prevailing Confucian norms limits women's autonomy and reduce their possibility to make independent decisions about their own reproductive health. This issue should be further addressed by policy-makers. Strategies to reduce inequities in maternal health care for pregnant women are needed. The quality of client-provider interaction and management of pregnancy may be strengthened by education, human resources, re-training and provision of essential equipment.
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| 2. |
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| 3. |
- Petersson, Kerstin, et al.
(författare)
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Internal validity of the Swedish Maternal Health Care Register
- 2014
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Ingår i: BMC Health Services Research. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1472-6963. ; 14
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: The Swedish Maternal Health Care Register (MHCR) is a national quality register that has been collecting pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum data since 1999. A substantial revision of the MHCR resulted in a Web-based version of the register in 2010. Although MHCR provides data for health care services and research, the validity of the MHCR data has not been evaluated. This study investigated degree of coverage and internal validity of specific variables in the MHCR and identified possible systematic errors.Methods: This cross-sectional observational study compared pregnancy and delivery data in medical records with corresponding data in the MHCR. The medical record was considered the gold standard. The medical records from nine Swedish hospitals were selected for data extraction. This study compared data from 878 women registered in both medical records and in the MHCR. To evaluate the quality of the initial data extraction, a second data extraction of 150 medical records was performed. Statistical analyses were performed for degree of coverage, agreement and correlation of data, and sensitivity and specificity.Results: Degree of coverage of specified variables in the MHCR varied from 90.0% to 100%. Identical information in both medical records and the MHCR ranged from 71.4% to 99.7%. For more than half of the investigated variables, 95% or more of the information was identical. Sensitivity and specificity were analysed for binary variables. Probable systematic errors were identified for two variables.Conclusions: When comparing data from medical records and data registered in the MHCR, most variables in the MHCR demonstrated good to very good degree of coverage, agreement, and internal validity. Hence, data from the MHCR may be regarded as reliable for research as well as for evaluating, planning, and decision-making with respect to Swedish maternal health care services.
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| 4. |
- Petersson, Kerstin, et al.
(författare)
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User perspectives on the Swedish Maternal Health Care Register
- 2014
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Ingår i: BMC Health Services Research. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1472-6963. ; 14
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Established in 1999, the Swedish Maternal Health Care Register (MHCR) collects data on pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period for most pregnant women in Sweden. Antenatal care (ANC) midwives manually enter data into the Web-application that is designed for MHCR. The aim of this study was to investigate midwives? experiences, opinions and use of the MHCR.Method: A national, cross-sectional, questionnaire survey, addressing all Swedish midwives working in ANC, was conducted January to March 2012. The questionnaire included demographic data, preformed statements with six response options ranging from zero to five (0 = totally disagree and 5 = totally agree), and opportunities to add information or further clarification in the form of free text comments. Parametric and non-parametric methods and logistic regression analyses were applied, and content analysis was used for free text comments.Results: The estimated response rate was 53.1%. Most participants were positive towards the Web-application and the included variables in the MHCR. Midwives exclusively engaged in patient-related work tasks perceived the register as burdensome (70.3%) and 44.2% questioned the benefit of the register. The corresponding figures for midwives also engaged in administrative supervision were 37.8% and 18.5%, respectively. Direct electronic transfer of data from the medical records to the MHCR was emphasised as significant future improvement. In addition, the midwives suggested that new variables of interest should be included in the MHCR ? e.g., infertility, outcomes of previous pregnancy and birth, and complications of the index pregnancy.Conclusions: In general, the MHCR was valued positively, although perceived as burdensome. Direct electronic transfer of data from the medical records to the MHCR is a prioritized issue to facilitate the working situation for midwives. Finally, the data suggest that the MHCR is an underused source for operational planning and quality assessment in local ANC centres.
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| 5. |
- Tazeen S, Ali, et al.
(författare)
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Intimate partner violence in urban Pakistan: prevalence, frequency and risk factors
- 2011
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Ingår i: International Journal of Women's Health. - 1179-1411. ; 3, s. 105-115
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is an important public health issue with severe adverse consequences. Population-based data on IPV from Muslim societies are scarce, and Pakistan is no exception. This study was conducted among women residing in urban Karachi, to estimate the prevalence and frequency of different forms of IPV and their associations with sociodemographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional community-based study was conducted using a structured questionnaire developed by the World Health Organisation for research on violence. Community midwives conducted face-to-face interviews with 759 married women aged 25–60 years. Results: Self-reported past-year and lifetime prevalence of physical violence was 56.3 and 57.6%, respectively; the corresponding figures for sexual violence were 53.4% and 54.5%, and for psychological abuse were 81.8% and 83.6%. Violent incidents were mostly reported to have occurred on more than three occasions during the lifetime. Risk factors for physical violence related mainly to the husband, his low educational attainment, unskilled worker status, and five or more family members living in one household. For sexual violence, the risk factors were the respondent’s low educational attainment, low socioeconomic status of the family, and five or more family members in one household. For psychological violence, the risk factors were the husband being an unskilled worker and low socioeconomic status of the family. Conclusion: Repeated violence perpetrated by a husband towards his wife is an extremely common phenomenon in Karachi, Pakistan. Indifference to this type of violence against women stems from the attitude that IPV is a private matter, usually considered a justifiable response to misbehavior on the part of the wife. These findings point to serious violations of women’s rights and require the immediate attention of health professionals and policymakers.
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| 6. |
- Ali, Tazeen S, et al.
(författare)
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Gender roles and their influence on life prospects for women in urban Karachi, Pakistan : a qualitative study
- 2011
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Ingår i: Global Health Action. - Häggeby : CoAction Publishing. - 1654-9716 .- 1654-9880. ; 4, s. 7448-
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Pakistan is a patriarchal society where men are the primary authority figures and women are subordinate. This has serious implications on women’s and men’s life prospects. Objective: The aim was to explore current gender roles in urban Pakistan, how these are reproduced and maintained and influence men’s and women’s life circumstances. Design: Five focus group discussions were conducted, including 28 women representing employed, unemployed, educated and uneducated women from different socio-economic strata. Manifest and latent content analyses were applied. Findings: Two major themes emerged during analysis: ‘Reiteration of gender roles’ and ‘Agents of change’. The first theme included perceptions of traditional gender roles and how these preserve women’s subordination. The power gradient, with men holding a superior position in relation to women, distinctive features in the culture and the role of the extended family were considered to interact to suppress women. The second theme included agents of change, where the role of education was prominent as well as the role of mass media. It was further emphasised that the younger generation was more positive to modernisation of gender roles than the elder generation. Conclusions: This study reveals serious gender inequalities and human rights violations against women in the Pakistani society. The unequal gender roles were perceived as static and enforced by structures imbedded in society. Women routinely faced serious restrictions and limitations of autonomy. However, attainment of higher levels of education especially not only for women but also for men was viewed as an agent towards change. Furthermore, mass media was perceived as having a positive role to play in supporting women’s empowerment.
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| 7. |
- Ali, T. S., et al.
(författare)
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Intimate Partner Violence and Mental Health Effects: A Population-Based Study among Married Women in Karachi, Pakistan
- 2013
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Ingår i: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1070-5503 .- 1532-7558. ; 20:1, s. 131-139
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Intimate partner violence (IPV) is recognized all over the world for its association with mental health This cross-sectional study involved 759 women between the ages of 25 and 60 years, selected using a In the total population of women, mental symptoms were prevalent. Women subjected to any form of The findings in this study highlight that the violence women have to face contributes to the
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| 8. |
- Ali, Tazeen S, et al.
(författare)
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Violence permeating daily life : a qualitative study investigating perspectives on violence among women in Karachi, Pakistan
- 2012
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Ingår i: International Journal of Women's Health. - : Dove Medical Press Ltd.. - 1179-1411. ; 4, s. 577-585
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BACKGROUND: This study explored how married women perceive situations which create family conflicts and lead to different forms of violence in urban Pakistan. In addition, it examines perceptions of consequences of violence, their adverse health effects, and how women resist violence within marital life.METHODS: Five focus group discussions were conducted with 28 women in Karachi. Purposive sampling, aiming for variety in age, employment status, education, and socioeconomic status, was employed. The focus group discussions were conducted in Urdu and translated into English. Manifest and latent content analysis were applied.RESULTS: One major theme emerged during the analysis, ie, family violence through the eyes of females. This theme was subdivided into three main categories. The first category, ie, situations provoking violence and their manifestations, elaborates on circumstances that provoke violence and situations that sustain violence. The second category, ie, actions and reactions to exposure to violence, describes consequences of ongoing violence within the family, including those that result in suicidal thoughts and actions. The final category, ie, resisting violence, describes how violence is avoided through women's awareness and actions.CONCLUSION: The current study highlights how female victims of abuse are trapped in a society where violence from a partner and family members is viewed as acceptable, where divorce is unavailable to the majority, and where societal support of women is limited. There is an urgent need to raise the subject of violence against women and tackle this human rights problem at all levels of society by targeting the individual, family, community, and societal levels concurrently.
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| 9. |
- Bergström, Cecilia, et al.
(författare)
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Pregnancy-related low back pain and pelvic girdle pain approximately 14 months after pregnancy : pain status, self-rated health and family situation
- 2014
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Ingår i: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2393 .- 1471-2393. ; 14
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) in pregnancy is distinct from pregnancy-related low back pain (PLBP). However, women with combined PLBP and PGP report more serious consequences in terms of health and function. PGP has been estimated to affect about half of pregnant women, where 25% experience serious pain and 8% experience severe disability. To date there are relatively few studies regarding persistent PLBP/PGP postpartum of more than 3 months, thus the main objective was to identify the prevalence of persistent PLBP and PGP as well as the differences over time in regard to pain status, self-rated health (SRH) and family situation at 12 months postpartum. Methods: The study is a 12 month follow-up of a cohort of pregnant women developing PLBP and PGP during pregnancy, and who experienced persistent pain at 6 month follow-up after pregnancy. Women reporting PLBP/PGP (n = 639) during pregnancy were followed up with a second questionnaire at approximately six month after delivery. Women reporting recurrent or persistent LBP/PGP at the second questionnaire (n = 200) were sent a third questionnaire at 12 month postpartum. Results: A total of 176 women responded to the questionnaire. Thirty-four women (19.3%) reported remission of LBP/PGP, whereas 65.3% (n = 115) and 15.3% (n = 27), reported recurrent LBP/PGP or continuous LBP/PGP, respectively. The time between base line and the 12 months follow-up was in actuality 14 months. Women with previous LBP before pregnancy had an increased odds ratio (OR) of reporting 'recurrent pain' (OR = 2.47) or 'continuous pain' (OR = 3.35) postpartum compared to women who reported 'no pain' at the follow-up. Women with 'continuous pain' reported statistically significant higher level of pain at all measure points (0, 6 and 12 months postpartum). Non-responders were found to report a statistically significant less positive scoring regarding relationship satisfaction compared to responders. Conclusions: The results from this study demonstrate that persistent PLBP/PGP is a major individual and public health issue among women 14 months postpartum, negatively affecting their self-reported health. However, the perceived relationship satisfaction seems to be stable between the groups.
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| 10. |
- Bergström, Cecilia, et al.
(författare)
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Prevalence and predictors of persistent pelvic girdle pain 12 years postpartum
- 2017
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Ingår i: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. - : BIOMED CENTRAL LTD. - 1471-2474. ; 18
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is not always a self-limiting condition. Women with more pronounced persistent PGP (PPGP) report poorer health status compared to women with less pronounced symptoms. The knowledge concerning the long-term consequences of PPGP is limited, thus more knowledge in this area is needed. The overall aim was to study the prevalence and predictors of PPGP 12 years after delivery. Methods: This is a long-term follow-up study based on a previous cohort study that commenced in 2002. New questionnaire data 12 years postpartum were collected in 2014 and early 2015. The questionnaire was distributed to a total of 624 women from the initial cohort. Results: In total, 295 women (47.3%) responded to the questionnaire where 40.3% (n = 119) reported pain to a various degree and 59% (n = 174) reported no pain. Increased duration and/or persistency of pain, self-rated health, sciatica, neck and/or thoracic spinal pain, sick leave the past 12 months, treatment sought, and prescription and/or non-prescription drugs used were all associated with an statistically significant increase in the odds of reporting pain 12 years postpartum. Widespread pain was common and median expectation of improvement score was 5 on an 11-point numeric scale (interquartile range 2-7.50). More than one of five women (21.8%) reporting pain stated that they had been on sick leave the past 12 months and nearly 11% had been granted disability pension due to PPGP. No statistically significant differences were found between respondents and non-respondents regarding most background variables. Conclusions: This study is unique as it is one of few long-term follow-up studies following women with PPGP of more than 11 years. The results show that spontaneous recovery with no recurrences is an unlikely scenario for a subgroup of women with PPGP. Persistency and/or duration of pain symptoms as well as widespread pain appear to be the strongest predictors of poor long-term outcome. Moreover, widespread pain is commonly associated with PPGP and may thus contribute to long-term sick leave and disability pension. A screening tool needs to be developed for the identification of women at risk of developing PPGP to enable early intervention.
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| 11. |
- Bergström, Cecilia, et al.
(författare)
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Psychosocial and behavioural characteristics in women with pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain 12 years postpartum
- 2019
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Ingår i: Chiropractic and Manual Therapies. - : BMC. - 2045-709X. ; 27:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: There is insufficient evidence regarding psychosocial factors and its long-term association with persistent pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain. The overall aim of this study was to investigate women with persistent pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain 12 years postpartum based on psychosocial and behavioural characteristics using the Swedish version of the Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI-S) classification system.Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional study based on a previous cohort. Data collection took place through a questionnaire. A total of 295 women from the initial cohort (n = 639) responded to the questionnaire giving a response rate of 47.3%. To determine the relative risk (RR) of reporting pain 12 years postpartum, a robust modified Poisson regression was used. This is the first study using the MPI-S as a predictive variable on women with persistent pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain.Results: The MPI-S classification procedure was carried out on a total of n = 226 women, where 53 women were classified as interpersonally distressed (ID), 82 as dysfunctional (DYS), and 91 as adaptive copers (AC). Women in the ID and DYS subgroups had a relative risk (RR) of reporting persistent pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain 12 years postpartum that was more than twice as high compared to the AC subgroup (95% confidence interval (CI) in parenthesis): RR 2.57 (CI 1.76 - 3.75), p<0.0001 and RR 2.23 (CI 1.53 - 3.25), p<0.0001 respectively. Women in the DYS subgroup had more than 5 times increased risk of reporting sick leave the past 12 months compared to the AC subgroup (RR 5.44; CI 1.70 - 17.38, p=0.004).Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that it is possible to classify women with persistent pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain 12 years postpartum into relevant clinical subgroups based on psychosocial and behavioural characteristics using the MPI-S questionnaire.
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| 12. |
- Bergström, Cecilia, et al.
(författare)
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Sick leave and healthcare utilisation in women reporting pregnancy related low back pain and/or pelvic girdle pain at 14 months postpartum
- 2016
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Ingår i: Chiropractic and Manual Therapies. - London : BioMed Central (BMC). - 2045-709X. ; 24
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Pregnancy related low back pain (PLBP) and pelvic girdle pain (PGP) are considered common complications of pregnancy. The long-term consequences for women with persistent PLBP/PGP postpartum are under-investigated. The main objective was to investigate the prevalence, pattern and degree of sick leave as well as healthcare utilisation and its perceived effect in women with persistent PLBP/PGP at 12 months postpartum.Method: This is a follow-up study of a cohort involving of a sample of women, who delivered from January 1st 2002 to April 30th in 2002 at Umea University Hospital and Sunderby Hospital, and who reported PLBP/PGP during pregnancy. A total of 639 women were followed-up by a second questionnaire (Q2) at approximately 6 months postpartum. Women with persistent PLBP/PGP at the second questionnaire (N = 200) were sent a third questionnaire (Q3) at approximately 12 months postpartum.Results: The final study sample consisted of 176 women reporting PLBP/PGP postpartum where N = 34 (19.3 %) reported 'no' pain, N = 115 (65.3 %) 'recurrent' pain, and N = 27 (15.3 %) 'continuous' pain. The vast majority (92.4 %) of women reported that they had neither been on sick leave nor sought any healthcare services (64.1 %) during the past 6 months at Q3. Women with 'continuous' pain at Q3 reported a higher extent of sick leave and healthcare seeking behaviour compared to women with 'recurrent' pain at Q3. Most women with persistent PLBP/PGP had been on sick leave on a full-time basis. The most commonly sought healthcare was physiotherapy, followed by consultation with a medical doctor, acupuncture and chiropractic.Conclusion: Most women did not report any sick leave or sought any healthcare due to PLBP/PGP the past 6 months at Q3. However, women with 'continuous' PLBP/PGP 14 months postpartum did report a higher prevalence and degree of sick leave and sought healthcare to a higher extent compared to women with 'recurrent' PLBP/PGP at Q3. Women with more pronounced symptoms might constitute a specific subgroup of patients with a less favourable long-term outcome, thus PLBP/PGP needs to be addressed early in pregnancy to reduce both individual suffering and the risk of transition into chronicity.
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| 13. |
- Collins, Elin, et al.
(författare)
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Bridging different realities-a qualitative study on patients' experiences of preoperative care for benign hysterectomy and opportunistic salpingectomy in Sweden
- 2020
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Ingår i: BMC Women's Health. - : BMC. - 1472-6874. ; 20:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Hysterectomy is a common procedure worldwide and removing healthy fallopian tubes at the time of hysterectomy (opportunistic salpingectomy) to possibly prevent ovarian cancer is increasing in frequency, but still controversial. The experiences and perceptions of women, eligible for the procedure, have not been previously investigated. This study aims to, among women waiting to undergo hysterectomy, explore i) experiences and perceptions of self and healthcare in relation to their elective surgery, ii) perceptions of risks and benefits of hysterectomy, including opportunistic salpingectomy.Methods: A qualitative study, with focus group discussions including women < 55 years, planned for hysterectomy with ovarian preservation, was performed. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from six gynecological departments in different parts of Sweden, including both country and university hospitals. Focus group discussions were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide, digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed by qualitative manifest and latent content analysis.Results: Twenty-one Swedish-speaking women participated. They were 40-53 years of age, reported varying educational levels, countries of birth and indications for hysterectomy. Analysis rendered a theme "Bridging different realities" over four categories: "Being a woman today", "Experiencing and managing body failure", "Navigating the healthcare system" and "Processing continuously until surgery", including 17 subcategories. The participants displayed varying attitudes towards the significance of their uterus in being a woman. A vague understanding of their body was described, leading to fear related to the reasons for surgery as well as surgery itself. Participants described difficulties understanding and recalling information but also stated that insufficient information was provided. Perceptions of the risks and benefits of opportunistic salpingectomy varied. Involvement in decisions regarding the hysterectomy and potential opportunistic salpingectomy was perceived to be dependent on the counselling gynecologist.Conclusions: The theme Bridging different realities captures the complexity of women deciding on removal of their uterus, and possibly fallopian tubes. It also describes the women's interactions with healthcare and perceived difference between the health professionals and the women's perception of the situation, as viewed by the women. Bridging the different realities faced by patients is required to enable shared decision-making, through sufficient support from healthcare.
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| 14. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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A population-based study of overweight and obesity in expectant parents : socio-demographic patterns and within-couple associations
- 2013
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Ingår i: BMC Public Health. - : BioMed Central. - 1471-2458. ; 13
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Overweight and obesity in pregnancy increase the risk of several adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, both mothers’ and fathers’ health play an important role for long-term health outcomes in offspring. While aspects of health and lifestyle of pregnant women have been reported, the health of expectant fathers and correlations of health variables within couples have received less attention. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and socio-demographic patterns of overweight and obesity in Swedish expectant parents, and to assess within-couple associations.Methods: This population-based, cross-sectional study investigated self-reported data from 4352 pregnant women and 3949 expectant fathers, comprising 3356 identified couples. Data were collected in antenatal care clinics between January 2008 and December 2011. Descriptive, correlation and logistic regression analyses were performed.Results: The self-reported prevalence of overweight (BMI 25.0-29.99) and obesity (BMI ≥30.0) was 29% among women (pre-pregnancy) and 53% among expectant fathers. In a majority of couples (62%), at least one partner was overweight or obese. The odds of being overweight or obese increased relative to partner’s overweight or obesity, and women’s odds of being obese were more than six times higher if their partners were also obese in comparison with women whose partners were of normal weight (OR 6.2, CI 4.2-9.3). A socio-demographic gradient was found in both genders in relation to education, occupation and area of residence, with higher odds of being obese further down the social ladder. The cumulative influence of these factors showed a substantial increase in the odds of obesity for the least compared to the most privileged (OR 6.5, CI 3.6-11.8).Conclusions: The prevalence of overweight and obesity in expectant parents was high, with a clear social gradient, and a minority of couples reported both partners with a healthy weight at the onset of pregnancy. Partner influence on health and health behaviours, and the role both mothers and fathers play in health outcomes of their offspring, underpin the need for a more holistic and gender inclusive approach to the delivery of pregnancy care and postnatal and child health services, with active measures employed to involve fathers.
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| 15. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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A routine tool with far-reaching influence : Australian midwives' views on the use of ultrasound during pregnancy
- 2015
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Ingår i: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2393 .- 1471-2393. ; 15
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Ultrasound is a tool of increasing importance in maternity care. Midwives have a central position in the care of pregnant women. However, studies regarding their experiences of the use of ultrasound in this context are limited. The purpose of this study was to explore Australian midwives' experiences and views of the role of obstetric ultrasound particularly in relation to clinical management of complicated pregnancy, and situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict.Methods: A qualitative study was undertaken in Victoria, Australia in 2012, based on six focus group discussions with midwives (n = 37) working in antenatal and intrapartum care, as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.Results: One overarching theme emerged from the analysis: Obstetric ultrasound - a routine tool with far-reaching influence, and it was built on three categories. First, the category` Experiencing pros and cons of ultrasound' highlighted that ultrasound was seen as having many advantages; however, it was also seen as contributing to increased medicalisation of pregnancy, to complex and sometimes uncertain decision-making and to parental anxiety. Second, 'Viewing ultrasound as a normalised and unquestioned examination' illuminated how the use of ultrasound has become normalised and unquestioned in health care and in wider society. Midwives were concerned that this impacts negatively on informed consent processes, and at a societal level, to threaten acceptance of human variation and disability. Third, 'Reflecting on the fetus as a person in relation to the pregnant woman' described views on that ultrasound has led to increased 'personification' of the fetus, and that women often put fetal health interests ahead of their own.Conclusions: The results reflect the significant influence ultrasound has had in maternity care and highlights ethical and professional challenges that midwives face in their daily working lives concerning its use. Further discussion about the use of ultrasound is needed, both among health professionals and in the community, in order to protect women's rights to informed decision-making and autonomy in pregnancy and childbirth and to curb unnecessary medicalisation of pregnancy. Midwives' experiences and views play an essential role in such discussions.
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| 16. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Giving offspring a healthy start : parents' experiences of health promotion and lifestyle change during pregnancy and early parenthood
- 2011
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Ingår i: BMC Public Health. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2458. ; 11
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: There are good opportunities in Sweden for health promotion targeting expectant parents and parents of young children, as almost all are reached by antenatal and child health care. In 2005, a multisectoral child health promotion programme (the Salut Programme) was launched to further strengthen such efforts. Methods: Between June and December 2010 twenty-four in-depth interviews were conducted separately with first-time mothers and fathers when their child had reached 18 months of age. The aim was to explore their experiences of health promotion and lifestyle change during pregnancy and early parenthood. Qualitative manifest and latent content analysis was applied. Results: Parents reported undertaking lifestyle changes to secure the health of the fetus during pregnancy, and in early parenthood to create a health-promoting environment for the child. Both women and men portrayed themselves as highly receptive to health messages regarding the effect of their lifestyle on fetal health, and they frequently mentioned risks related to tobacco and alcohol, as well as toxins and infectious agents in specific foods. However, health promotion strategies in pregnancy and early parenthood did not seem to influence parents to make lifestyle change primarily to promote their own health; a healthy lifestyle was simply perceived as 'common knowledge'. Although trust in health care was generally high, both women and men described some resistance to what they saw as preaching, or very directive counselling about healthy living and the lack of a holistic approach from health care providers. They also reported insufficient engagement with fathers in antenatal care and child health care. Conclusion: Perceptions about risks to the offspring's health appear to be the primary driving force for lifestyle change during pregnancy and early parenthood. However, as parents' motivation to prioritise their own health per se seems to be low during this period, future health promoting programmes need to take this into account. A more gender equal provision of health promotion to parents might increase men's involvement in lifestyle change. Furthermore, parents' ranking of major lifestyle risks to the fetus may not sufficiently reflect those that constitute greatest public health concern, an area for further stud
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| 17. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Improving child health promotion practices in multiple sectors : outcomes of the Swedish Salut Programme
- 2013
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background To improve health in the population, public health interventions must be successfully implemented within organisations, requiring behaviour change in health service providers as well as in the target population group. Such behavioural change is seldom easily achieved. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes of a child health promotion programme (The Salut Programme) on professionals’ self-reported health promotion practices, and to investigate perceived facilitators and barriers for programme implementation. MethodsA before-and-after design was used to measure programme outcomes, and qualitative data on implementation facilitators and barriers were collected on two occasions during the implementation process. The sample included professionals in antenatal care (ANC), child health care (CHC), dental services (DS) and open pre-schools (OP) (n=144 pre-implementation) in 13 out of 15 municipalities in a Swedish county. Response rates ranged between 81% and 96% at the four measurement points. ResultsHealth promotion practices and collaboration improved in all sectors. Significant changes included an increase in the extent to which professionals raised a range of lifestyle topics (CHC, DS) including issues related to men’s violence against women (ANC), an increased use of motivational interviewing and ‘fathers visits’ (CHC), improvements in the supply of healthy snacks and beverages (OP), and increased inter-sectorial collaboration. Main facilitators included sector-specific work manuals and inter-sectoral collaboration, while main barriers were related to workload issues.ConclusionThis multisectoral programme for health promotion, based on sector-specific intervention packages developed and tested by end users, and introduced via interactive multisectoral seminars, shows potential for improving health promotion practices and collaboration across sectors. Consideration of the key facilitators and barriers for programme implementation as highlighted in this study can inform future improvement efforts.
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| 18. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Improving child health promotion practices in multiple sectors – outcomes of the Swedish Salut Programme
- 2012
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Ingår i: BMC Public Health. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2458. ; 12:920
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: To improve health in the population, public health interventions must be successfully implemented within organisations, requiring behaviour change in health service providers as well as in the target population group. Such behavioural change is seldom easily achieved. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes of a child health promotion programme (The Salut Programme) on professionals’ self-reported health promotion practices, and to investigate perceived facilitators and barriers for programme implementation.Methods: A before-and-after design was used to measure programme outcomes, and qualitative data on implementation facilitators and barriers were collected on two occasions during the implementation process. The sample included professionals in antenatal care, child health care, dental services and open pre-schools (n=144 pre-implementation) in 13 out of 15 municipalities in a Swedish county. Response rates ranged between 81% and 96% at the four measurement points.Results: Self-reported health promotion practices and collaboration were improved in all sectors at follow up. Significant changes included: 1) an increase in the extent to which midwives in antenatal care raised issues related to men’s violence against women, 2) an increase in the extent to which several lifestyle topics were raised with parents/clients in child health care and dental services, 3) an increased use of motivational interviewing (MI) and separate ‘fathers visits’ in child health care 4) improvements in the supply of healthy snacks and beverages in open pre-schools and 5) increased collaboration between sectors. Main facilitators for programme implementation included cross-sectoral collaboration and sector-specific work manuals/questionnaires for use as support in everyday practice. Main barriers included high workload, and shortage of time and staff.Conclusion: This multisectoral programme for health promotion, based on sector-specific intervention packages developed and tested by end users, and introduced via interactive multisectoral seminars, shows potential for improving health promotion practices and collaboration across sectors. Consideration of the key facilitators and barriers for programme implementation as highlighted in this study can inform future improvement efforts.
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| 19. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Increasing possibilities - Increasing dilemmas : A qualitative study of Swedish midwives' experiences of ultrasound use in pregnancy
- 2016
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Ingår i: MIDWIFERY. - : Elsevier BV. - 0266-6138 .- 1532-3099. ; 42, s. 46-53
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: to explore Swedish midwives' experiences and views of the use of obstetric ultrasound in clinical management of pregnancy, and in situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict. Design: an exploratory qualitative study based on focus group discussions (FGDs) was undertaken in 2013 as part of the CROss Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Setting and participants: midwives (N=25) were recruited from four public hospitals located in the northern and central parts of Sweden. Findings: the analysis resulted in three categories. The first Acknowledging ultrasound as optimising care but also as creating worry and ethical dilemmas' reflects midwives' experiences of two different aspects of ultrasound use, one being recognition of ultrasound as an important tool to optimise care and pregnancy outcomes, the other being the dilemmas that arise for maternity care in situations of uncertain or unwanted findings. The second category Dealing with insufficient informed consent processes and differing expectations of ultrasound' describes routine ultrasound as an unquestioned norm that means its full purpose and use is not always well communicated to, or understood by, expectant parents, resulting in differing expectations of ultrasound outcomes between caregivers and expectant parents. Midwives also experienced expectant parents as having great trust in ultrasound, with perceptions of 'all clear' scan as a 'guarantee' for a healthy baby. The third category Balancing maternal and fetal health interests in a context of medico-technical development' included experiences of the fetus being given greater importance in maternity care as diagnostic and fetal treatment possibilities increase; that new methods are often introduced without appropriate ethical discussion; and also that ethical challenges will increase in line with increasing demand for 'quality assurance' in pregnancy. Key conclusions and implications for practice: midwives described ultrasound as a vital tool in pregnancy surveillance and management, facilitating conditions to be optimised for the woman and her baby during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. However, the increasing possibility of obtaining detailed information about the fetus was also experienced as increasing ethical dilemmas in maternity care. This study indicates that there is a need to improve informed consent processes regarding the use of ultrasound for prenatal screening and diagnostic purposes. The ambivalence midwives expressed in relation to management of ultrasound findings furthermore indicates a need for ongoing training for maternity care professionals to increase confidence in counselling women and to promote consistency in management. Finally, it is important to monitor any increasing focus on the fetus by care providers for potential impacts on women's autonomy to make their own decisions about pregnancy and birth.
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| 20. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Norwegian obstetricians' experiences of the use of ultrasound in pregnancy management : a qualitative study
- 2018
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Ingår i: Sexual & Reproductive HealthCare. - : Elsevier. - 1877-5756 .- 1877-5764. ; 15, s. 69-76
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: To explore obstetricians' experiences and views of the use of obstetric ultrasound in clinical management of pregnancy. Methods: A qualitative interview study was undertaken in 2015 with obstetricians (N = 20) in Norway as part of the CROss Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Results: Three categories developed during analyses. 'Differing opinions about ultrasound and prenatal diagnosis policies' revealed divergent views in relation to Norwegian policies for ultrasound screening and prenatal diagnosis. Down syndrome screening was portrayed as a delicate and frequently debated issue, with increasing ethical challenges due to developments in prenatal diagnosis. 'Ultrasound's influence on the view of the fetus' illuminated how ultrasound influenced obstetricians' views of the fetus as a 'patient' and a 'person'. They also saw ultrasound as strongly influencing expectant parents' views of the fetus, and described how ultrasound was sometimes used as a means of comforting women when complications occurred. The complexity of information and counselling' revealed how obstetricians balanced the medical and social aspects of the ultrasound examination, and the difficulties of 'delivering bad news' and counselling in situations of uncertain findings. Conclusion: This study highlights obstetricians' experiences and views of ultrasound and prenatal diagnosis in Norwegian maternity care and the challenges associated with the provision of these services, including counselling dilemmas and perceived differences in expectations between caregivers and expectant parents. There was notable diversity among these obstetricians in relation to their support of, and adherence to Norwegian regulations about the use of ultrasound, which indicates that the care pregnant women receive may vary accordingly.
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| 21. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Physicians' experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in rural and urban Rwanda : a qualitative study
- 2016
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Ingår i: Tropical medicine & international health. - : Wiley. - 1360-2276 .- 1365-3156. ; 21:7, s. 895-906
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective To explore Rwandan physicians' experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in clinical management of pregnancy, and in situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict. Methods Physicians (n=19) in public and private health facilities in urban and rural Rwanda were interviewed in 2015 as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Data were analysed qualitatively. Results Ultrasound was described as an important tool in maternity care. Availability and quality of equipment varied across sites, and considerable disparities in obstetric ultrasound utilisation between rural and urban areas were described. The physicians wanted more ultrasound training and saw the potential for midwives to perform basic scans. Information about fetal sex and well-being was described as women's main expectations of ultrasound. Although women's right to autonomy in pregnancy was supported in principle by participating physicians, fetal rights were sometimes seen as needing physician protection'. Conclusions There appears to be increasing use and demand for obstetric ultrasound in Rwanda, particularly in urban areas. It seems important to monitor this development closely to secure wise and fair allocation of scarce obstetric expertise and resources and to prevent overuse or misuse of ultrasound. Raising awareness about the benefits of all aspects of antenatal care, including ultrasound may be an important step to improve pregnant women's uptake of services. Increased opportunities for formal ultrasound training, including the training of midwives to perform basic scans, seem warranted. Moreover, in parallel with the transition to more medico-technical maternity care, a dialogue about maternal rights to autonomy in pregnancy and childbirth is imperative.
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| 22. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Severe mental illness and pregnancy outcomes in Australia. A population-based study of 595 792 singleton births 2009-2016
- 2022
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Ingår i: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science. - 1932-6203. ; 17:2
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Women with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) may have more complex pregnancies and pregnancy outcomes that require different care and management, but this has not been extensively studied. The aim of this study was to explore associations between SMI and adverse maternal and infant outcomes in the state of Victoria, Australia.Methods: Our sample included all reported live singleton births in Victoria 2009-2016 (N = 595 792). Associations between SMI and adverse pregnancy outcomes were explored using Odds Ratios (OR), adjusted for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, and co-morbidities, including any other mental illness.Results: Of all singleton births, 2046 (0.34%) were to a mother diagnosed with a SMI. We found evidence of an association between SMI and a range of adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Compared to women without SMI, women with a SMI had higher adjusted odds of being admitted to a High Dependency Unit or Intensive Care Unit (aOR 1.83, 1.37-2.43), having gestational diabetes mellitus (1.57, 1.34-1.84), undergoing an unplanned caesarean section (1.17, 1.02-1.33), induction of labour (1.17, 1.05-1.30) and postpartum haemorrhage (1.15, 1.03-1.29). Newborns of women with SMI had higher adjusted odds of being admitted to Special Care Nursery (aOR 1.61, 1.43-1.80), a low Apgar score at 5 minutes (1.50, 1.19-1.90), preterm birth (1.40, 1.20-1.63), and low birthweight (1.26, 1.06-1.49).Conclusion: Women with SMI are at higher risk for a range of adverse maternal and infant outcomes and are a population that may benefit from targeted early identification and enhanced antenatal care.
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| 23. |
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| 24. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Sustainable practice change: Professionals' experiences with a multisectoral child health promotion programme in Sweden
- 2011
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Ingår i: BMC Health Services Research. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1472-6963. ; 11:61
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: New methods for prevention and health promotion and are constantly evolving; however, positive outcomes will only emerge if these methods are fully adopted and sustainable in practice. To date, limited attention has been given to sustainability of health promotion efforts. This study aimed to explore facilitators, barriers, and requirements for sustainability as experienced by professionals two years after finalizing the development and implementation of a multisectoral child health promotion programme in Sweden (the Salut programme). Initiated in 2005, the programme uses a ‘Salutogenesis’ approach to support health-promoting activities in health care, social services, and schools.Methods: All professionals involved in the Salut Programme’s pilot areas were interviewed between May and September 2009, approximately two years after the intervention package was established and implemented. Participants (n = 23) were midwives, child health nurses, dental hygienists/dental nurses, and pre-school teachers. Transcribed data underwent qualitative content analysis to illuminate perceived facilitators, barriers, and requirements for programme sustainability.Results: The programme was described as sustainable at most sites, except in child health care. The perception of facilitators, barriers, and requirements were largely shared across sectors. Facilitators included being actively involved in intervention development and small-scale testing, personal values corresponding to programme intentions, regular meetings, working close with collaborators, using manuals and a clear programme branding. Existing or potential barriers included insufficient managerial involvement and support and perceived constraints regarding time and resources. In dental health care, barriers also included conflicting incentives for performance. Many facilitators and barriers identified by participants also reflected their perceptions of more general and forthcoming requirements for programme sustainability.Conclusions: These results contribute to the knowledge of processes involved in achieving sustainability in health promotion initiatives. Facilitating factors include involving front-line professionals in intervention development and using small scale testing; however, the success of a programme requires paying attention to the role of managerial support and an overall supportive system. In summary, these results emphasise the importance for both practitioners and researchers to pay attention to parallel processes at different levels in multidisciplinary improvement efforts intended to ensure sustainable practice change.
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| 25. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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'Ultrasound is an invaluable third eye, but it can't see everything' : a qualitative study with obstetricians in Australia
- 2014
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Ingår i: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2393 .- 1471-2393. ; 14
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Obstetric ultrasound has come to play a significant role in obstetrics since its introduction in clinical care. Today, most pregnant women in the developed world are exposed to obstetric ultrasound examinations, and there is no doubt that the advantages of obstetric ultrasound technique have led to improvements in pregnancy outcomes. However, at the same time, the increasing use has also raised many ethical challenges. This study aimed to explore obstetricians' experiences of the significance of obstetric ultrasound for clinical management of complicated pregnancy and their perceptions of expectant parents' experiences.Methods: A qualitative study was undertaken in November 2012 as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Semi-structured individual interviews were held with 14 obstetricians working at two large hospitals in Victoria, Australia. Transcribed data underwent qualitative content analysis.Results: An overall theme emerged during the analyses, 'Obstetric ultrasound - a third eye', reflecting the significance and meaning of ultrasound in pregnancy, and the importance of the additional information that ultrasound offers clinicians managing the surveillance of a pregnant woman and her fetus. This theme was built on four categories: I:'Everyday-tool' for pregnancy surveillance, II: Significance for managing complicated pregnancy, III: Differing perspectives on obstetric ultrasound, and IV: Counselling as a balancing act. In summary, the obstetricians viewed obstetric ultrasound as an invaluable tool in their everyday practice. More importantly however, the findings emphasise some of the clinical dilemmas that occur due to its use: the obstetricians' and expectant parents' differing perspectives and expectations of obstetric ultrasound examinations, the challenges of uncertain ultrasound findings, and how this information was conveyed and balanced by obstetricians in counselling expectant parents.Conclusions: This study highlights a range of previously rarely acknowledged clinical dilemmas that obstetricians face in relation to the use of obstetric ultrasound. Despite being a tool of considerable significance in the surveillance of pregnancy, there are limitations and uncertainties that arise with its use that make counselling expectant parents challenging. Research is needed which further investigates the effects and experiences of the continuing worldwide rapid technical advances in surveillance of pregnancies.
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| 26. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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Ultrasound's 'window on the womb' brings ethical challenges for balancing maternal and fetal health interests : obstetricians' experiences in Australia
- 2015
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Ingår i: BMC Medical Ethics. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1472-6939. ; 16
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Obstetric ultrasound has become a significant tool in obstetric practice, however, it has been argued that its increasing use may have adverse implications for women's reproductive freedom. This study aimed to explore Australian obstetricians' experiences and views of the use of obstetric ultrasound both in relation to clinical management of complicated pregnancy, and in situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict.METHODS: A qualitative study was undertaken as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Interviews were held in November 2012 with 14 obstetricians working in obstetric care in Victoria, Australia. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.RESULTS: One overall theme emerged from the analyses: The ethical challenge of balancing maternal and fetal health interests, built on four categories: First, Encountering maternal altruism' described how pregnant women's often 'altruistic' position in relation to the health and wellbeing of the fetus could create ethical challenges in obstetric management, particularly with an increasing imbalance between fetal benefits and maternal harms. Second, 'Facing shifting attitudes due to visualisation and medico-technical advances' illuminated views that ultrasound and other advances in care have contributed to a shift in what weight to give maternal versus fetal welfare, with increasing attention directed to the fetus. Third, 'Guiding expectant parents in decision-making' described the difficult task of facilitating informed decision-making in situations where maternal and fetal health interests were not aligned, or in situations characterised by uncertainty. Fourth, 'Separating private from professional views' illuminated divergent views on when the fetus can be regarded as a person. The narratives indicated that the fetus acquired more consideration in decision-making the further the gestation progressed. However, there was universal agreement that obstetricians could never act on fetal grounds without the pregnant woman's consent.CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that medico-technical advances such as ultrasound have set the scene for increasing ethical dilemmas in obstetric practice. The obstetricians interviewed had experienced a shift in previously accepted views about what weight to give maternal versus fetal welfare. As fetal diagnostics and treatment continue to advance, how best to protect pregnant women's right to autonomy requires careful consideration and further investigation.
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| 27. |
- Edvardsson, Kristina, et al.
(författare)
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'Women think pregnancy management means obstetric ultrasound' : Vietnamese obstetricians' views on the use of ultrasound during pregnancy
- 2015
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Ingår i: Global Health Action. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1654-9716 .- 1654-9880. ; 8, s. 1-10
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: To explore Vietnamese obstetricians' experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in clinical management of complicated pregnancy and in situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict. Design: Seventeen obstetricians in northern Vietnam were interviewed as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS) project in 2013. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The participants described ultrasound as a central tool in prenatal care, although they called for increased training and resources to prevent inappropriate management. A prevailing overuse driven by women's request and increased commercialisation was described. Other clinical examinations were seen as being disregarded by women in favour of ultrasound, resulting in missed opportunities for identifying potential pregnancy complications. The use of ultrasound for sex selection purposes raised concern among participants. Visualisation of human features or heartbeat during ultrasound was commonly described as the point where the fetus became regarded as a 'person'. Women were said to prioritise fetal health interests over their own health, particularly if a woman had difficulties becoming pregnant or had undergone assisted fertilisation. The woman's husband and his family were described as having an important role in decision-making in situations of maternal and fetal health conflicts. Conclusions: This study provides insight into issues surrounding ultrasound use in contemporary Vietnam, some of which may be specific to this low-income context. It is clear that ultrasound has become a central tool in prenatal care in Vietnam and that it has also been embraced by women. However, there seems to be a need to balance women's demands for obstetric ultrasound with better recognition of the valuable contribution to be made by the full range of clinical examinations in pregnancy, along with a more strategic allocation of resources, that is, use of obstetric ultrasound based on clinical indications. Better regulation of private obstetric practice also appears to be needed. While the root causes of sex selection need to be addressed at societal level, efforts are also required more immediately to find ways to combat the inappropriate use of ultrasound for the purpose of sex selection.
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| 28. |
- Estampador, Angela, et al.
(författare)
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Infant body composition and adipokine concentrations in relation to maternal gestational weight gain
- 2014
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Ingår i: Diabetes Care. - : American Diabetes Association. - 0149-5992 .- 1935-5548. ; 37:5, s. 1432-1438
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- OBJECTIVE. To investigate associations of maternal gestational weight gain and body composition and their impact on offspring body composition and adipocytokine, glucose, and insulin concentrations at age 4 months.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS. This was a prospective study including 31 mother-infant pairs (N = 62). Maternal body composition was assessed using doubly labeled water. Infant body composition was assessed at 4 months using air displacement plethysmography, and venous blood was assayed for glucose, insulin, adiponectin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leptin concentrations.RESULTS. Rate of gestational weight gain in midpregnancy was significantly associated with infant fat mass (r = 0.41, P = 0.03); rate of gestational weight in late pregnancy was significantly associated with infant fat-free mass (r = 0.37, P = 0.04). Infant birth weight was also strongly correlated with infant fat-free mass at 4 months (r = 0.63, P = 0.0002). Maternal BMI and maternal fat mass were strongly inversely associated with infant IL-6 concentrations (r = -0.60, P = 0.002 and r = -0.52, P = 0.01, respectively). Infant fat-free mass was inversely related to infant adiponectin concentrations (r = -0.48, P = 0.008) and positively correlated with infant blood glucose adjusted for insulin concentrations (r = 0.42, P = 0.04). No significant associations for leptin were observed.CONCLUSIONS. Timing of maternal weight gain differentially impacts body composition of the 4-month-old infant, which in turn appears to affect the infant's glucose and adipokine concentrations.
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| 29. |
- Eurenius, Eva, et al.
(författare)
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Maternal and paternal self-rated health and BMI in relation to lifestyle in early pregnancy: The Salut Programme in Sweden
- 2011
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Ingår i: Scandinavian Journal of Public Health. - Stockholm : Taylor & Francis. - 1403-4948 .- 1651-1905. ; 39:7, s. 730-741
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Aim: This study’s aim was to increase knowledge about maternal and paternal self-rated health and body mass index in relation to lifestyle during early pregnancy. Methods: Study subjects were expectant parents visiting antenatal care (2006—07) as part of the Salut Programme in northern Sweden. During early pregnancy, 468 females and 413 male partners completed questionnaires. The questions addressed sociodemography, self-rated general health, weight and height, satisfaction with weight, and lifestyle, such as dietary habits, physical activity, sleeping pattern, and alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. Results: Most rated their general health as good, very good, or excellent, although women less often than men (88% and 93%). The sex difference was more prominent when restricting the comparison to self-rated health being very good or excellent - 49% of the women compared to 61% of the men. Being overweight or obese was common (53% of the men and 30% of the women). Few participants fulfilled the national recommendations with respect to a health-enhancing lifestyle; this was somewhat more common for women than men. Expectant parents with normal body mass index and vigorous physical activity were more likely to have very good or excellent self-rated health. Conclusions: Most expectant parents perceived their general health as good, although this perception was less for women than men. Being overweight and having a non-health-enhancing lifestyle were more common for men than women. Thus, there is need for more powerful health-promoting interventions for expectant parents.
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| 30. |
- Faulks, Fiona, et al.
(författare)
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Common mental disorders and perinatal outcomes in Victoria, Australia : a population-based retrospective cohort study
- 2024
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Ingår i: Women and Birth. - : Elsevier. - 1871-5192 .- 1878-1799. ; 37:2, s. 428-435
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Purpose: Common mental disorders (non-psychotic mental health conditions which impact on day-to-day functioning) are increasingly common in childbearing women and may impact significantly on both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Our study examines the associations between common mental disorders and perinatal outcomes.Methods: We used routinely collected perinatal data (2009–2016) for this population-based retrospective cohort study (n = 597,522 singleton births). We undertook multiple logistic regression adjusting for key maternal medical conditions and sociodemographic factors to determine associations between maternal common mental disorders and adverse perinatal outcomes with confidence intervals set at 95%.Results: Women with common mental disorders were more likely to have an induction of labour and caesarean birth, have a postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), and be admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) than women without common mental disorders. Neonates of women with common mental disorders were more likely to have an Apgar score at five minutes of less than seven (a measure of neonatal wellbeing at birth), be born preterm and low birthweight, be admitted to the Special Care Nursery or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (SCN/NICU) and have a congenital anomaly than neonates of women without common mental disorders.Conclusion: Common mental disorders during the perinatal period were associated with poorer perinatal outcomes for mothers and their neonates. Strategies that enable early recognition and response to maternal common mental disorders should be developed to mitigate the consequential impact on maternal and infant wellbeing.
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| 31. |
- Faulks, Fiona, et al.
(författare)
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Perinatal outcomes of socially disadvantaged women in Australia : a population-based retrospective cohort study
- 2023
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Ingår i: British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1470-0328 .- 1471-0528. ; 130:11, s. 1380-1393
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: To examine the perinatal outcomes of women who experience social disadvantage using population-based perinatal data collected between 1999 and 2016.Design: Population-based, retrospective cohort study.Setting: Victoria, Australia.Population or Sample: A total of 1 188 872 singleton births were included.Methods: Cohort study using routinely collected perinatal data. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine associations between social disadvantage and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes with confidence limits set at 99%. Time-trend analysis for perinatal outcomes was performed in relation to area-level disadvantage measures.Main Outcome Measures: Incidence of maternal admission to intensive care unit (ICU), postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) and caesarean section, perinatal mortality, preterm birth, low birthweight (LBW), and admission to special care nursery/neonatal intensive care unit (SCN/NICU).Results: Social disadvantage was associated with higher odds of adverse perinatal outcomes. Disadvantaged women were more likely to be admitted to ICU, have a PPH or experience perinatal mortality (stillbirth or neonatal death) and their neonates were more likely to be admitted to SCN/NICU, be born preterm and be LBW. A persistent social gradient existed across time for the most disadvantaged women for all outcomes except caesarean section.Conclusions: Social disadvantage has a marked negative impact on perinatal outcomes. This aligns with national and international evidence regarding the impact of disadvantage. Strategies that improve access to, and reduce fragmentation in, maternity care in addition to initiatives that address the social determinants of health may contribute to improving perinatal outcomes for socially disadvantaged women.
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| 32. |
- Gradmark, Anna, 1981-, et al.
(författare)
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Physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and estimated insulin sensitivity and secretion in pregnant and non-pregnant women
- 2011
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Ingår i: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. - London : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2393 .- 1471-2393. ; 44:11
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Overweight and obesity during pregnancy raise the risk of gestational diabetes and birth complications. Lifestyle factors like physical activity may decrease these risks through beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis. Here we examined physical activity patterns and their relationships with measures of glucose homeostasis in late pregnancy compared to non-pregnant women. Methods: Normal weight and overweight women without diabetes (N=108; aged 25-35 years) were studied; 35 were pregnant (in gestational weeks 28-32) and 73 were non-pregnant. Insulin sensitivity and beta-cell response were estimated from an oral glucose tolerance test. Physical activity was measured during 10-days of free-living using a combined heart rate sensor and accelerometer. Total (TEE), resting (REE), and physical activity (PAEE) energy expenditure were measured using doubly-labeled water and expired gas indirect calorimetry. Results: Total activity was associated with reduced first-phase insulin response in both pregnant (Regression r2=0.11; Spearman r=-0.47; p=0.007) and non-pregnant women (Regression r2=0.11; Spearman; r=-0.36; p=0.002). Relative to non-pregnant women, pregnant women were estimated to have secreted 67% more insulin and had 10% lower fasting glucose than non-pregnant women. Pregnant women spent 13% more time sedentary, 71% less time in moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity, had 44% lower objectively measured total activity,and 12% lower PAEE than non-pregnant women. Correlations did not differ significantly for any comparison between physical activity subcomponents and measures of insulin sensitivity or secretion. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that physical activity conveys similar benefits on glucose homeostasis in pregnant and non-pregnant women, despite differences in subcomponents of physical activity.
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| 33. |
- Graner, Sophie, 1971-, et al.
(författare)
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Adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes and their determinants in rural Vietnam 1999-2005
- 2010
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Ingår i: Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. - : Wiley. - 0269-5022 .- 1365-3016. ; 24:6, s. 535-545
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Population-based estimations of perinatal and neonatal outcomes are sparse in Vietnam. There are no previously published data on small for gestational age (SGA) infants. A rural population in northern Vietnam was investigated from 1999 to 2005 (n = 5521). Based on the birthweight distributions within the population under study, reference curves for intrauterine growth for Vietnamese infants were constructed and the prevalence and distribution of SGA was calculated for each sex. Neonatal mortality was estimated as 11.6 per 1000 live births and the perinatal mortality as 25.0 per 1000 births during the study period. The mean birthweight was 3112 g and the prevalence of low birthweight was 5.0%. The overall prevalence of SGA was 6.4%. SGA increased with gestational age and was 2.2%, 4.5% and 27.1% for preterm, term and post-term infants, respectively. Risk factors for SGA were post-term birth: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 7.75 [95% CI 6.02, 9.98], mothers in farming occupations AOR 1.72 [95% CI 1.21, 2.45] and female infant AOR 1.61 [95% CI 1.27, 2.03]. There was a pronounced decrease in neonatal mortality after 33 weeks of gestation. Suggested interventions are improved prenatal identification of SGA infants by ultrasound investigation for fetal growth among infants who do not follow their expected clinical growth curve at the antenatal clinic. Other suggestions include allocating a higher proportion of preterm deliveries to health facilities with surgical capacity and neonatal care.
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| 34. |
- Graner, Sophie, 1971-, et al.
(författare)
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'Normal foetal movements make me happy' : a qualitative study on pregnant women's perception on signs and symtoms during pregnancy and maternal helath care in rural Vietnam
-
Annan publikation (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Background: Women's understanding of pregnancy and antenatal care is influneced by their cultural context. In low income settings women may have limited influence over their reproductive health including when to seek health care. Awareness of signs of pregnancy complications is essential to seek timely care. The use of antenatal care services in Vietnam has been studied with quantatative methods but there are few qualitative studies on the perception of pregnancy and maternal health care among Vietnamse women. Method: The study was conducted in a rural district in northern Vietnam. Four focus group discussions with pregnant women were performed. The data was analysed using manifest and latent content analysis. Result: The latent theme 'Securing pregnancy during normal course and at deviation' consisting of the main categories 'Ensuring a healthy pregnancy' and 'Seperating the normal from the abnormal' emerged. Conclusion: This qualitative study of pregnant women in rural Vietnam indicates how women create a stategy to promote a healthy pregnancy through lifestyle adjustments, gathering of information, and seeking timely medical care. Insight in pregnancy-related conditions were sought from various sources and influenced both by Vietnamese traditions and modern medical knowledge. Public knowledge about deviating symtoms during pregnancy and high confidence in maternal health care are most likely contributing factors to the relative good maternal health status in Vietnam.
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| 35. |
- Graner, Sophie, et al.
(författare)
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Pregnant women's perception on signs and symptoms during pregnancy and maternal health care in a rural low-resource setting
- 2013
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Ingår i: Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica. - : Wiley. - 0001-6349 .- 1600-0412. ; 92:9, s. 1094-1100
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective. Women's understanding of pregnancy and antenatal care is influenced by their cultural context. In low-income settings women may have limited influence over their reproductive health, including when to seek health care. Awareness of signs of pregnancy complications is essential for timely care. The use of antenatal care services in Vietnam has been studied with quantitative methods but there are few qualitative studies on the perceptions of pregnancy and maternal health care among Vietnamese women. Design. Four focus group discussions with pregnant women were performed. Setting. The study was conducted in a rural district in northern Vietnam. Population. Pregnant women in the last trimester. Method. Manifest and latent content analysis. Result. The latent theme that emerged was a need for "securing pregnancy during its normal course and at deviation", consisting of the main categories "ensuring a healthy pregnancy" and "separating the normal from the abnormal". Conclusion. This qualitative study of pregnant women in rural Vietnam indicates how women create a strategy to promote a healthy pregnancy through lifestyle adjustments, gathering of information, and seeking timely medical care. Insight into pregnancy-related conditions was sought from various sources and influenced both by local traditions and modern medical knowledge. Public knowledge about different symptoms during pregnancy and a high confidence in maternal health care are the most likely contributing factors to the relatively good maternal health status in Vietnam.
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| 36. |
- Graner, Sophie, 1971-
(författare)
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Reproductive outcomes in rural Vietnam. Perspectives and experiences by pregnant women and health care professionals on pregnancy promotion and maternal health care.
- 2010
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Doktorsavhandling (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Background Reproductive health and health events associated with pregnancy including induced abortions are among the most important factors for the health of fertile women. Adverse outcomes have an impact on women’s reproductive health and their overall health as well as the health of their offspring. Pregnancy and child bearing take place within a cultural context. Risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes depend on factors both associated with the individual woman as well as contextual factors. Aims This thesis investigates reproductive health indicators and their determinants for women in a rural district in Vietnam with special focus on adverse pregnancy outcomes and their determinants. In addition, this thesis explores the perspectives and experiences among pregnant women and health care professionals on maternal health care in Vietnam and risks during pregnancy and delivery. Methods The studies used quantitative and qualitative methods. In the quantitative studies a total of 4,396 women reporting 5,838 pregnancies, and 5,521 infants were included. Parametric and non parametric tests and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. For the estimation of small for gestational age a population-specific reference curve was constructed based on the mean birth weight at term in the study population. In the qualitative studies data were collected from eight focus group discussions, four with pregnant women and four with health care professionals. Manifest and latent content analysis was applied. Main findings Women belonging to an ethnic minority or women giving birth at home were at increased risk of stillbirth. The risk of induced abortion increased with maternal age. Neonatal mortality was estimated to 11.6 per 1000 live births and perinatal mortality to 25.0 per 1000 births. The prevalence of small for gestational age was estimated to 6.4%. Risk factors for small for gestational age included women in farming occupations and post-term birth. There was a marked decrease in perinatal mortality after 33 weeks of gestation. Contextual conditions influenced both pregnant women’s use of maternal health care and the performance of the health care professionals. The use of maternal health care was influenced by economical conditions as well as cultural norms that impeded women’s autonomy. Structural constraints included inadequate financing of the health system, including lack of staff, insufficient professional re-training, and inadequate equipment. Pregnant women in rural Vietnam created a strategy to promote a healthy pregnancy through lifestyle adjustments, gathering of information, and seeking timely medical care. Insights in pregnancy-related conditions were sought from various sources and were influenced both by Vietnamese traditions and modern medical knowledge. Conclusions Knowledge about pregnancy complications and their related signs and symptoms, and a high confidence in the maternal health care probably contribute to the relatively good maternal health status and pregnancy outcomes in Vietnam. To improve perinatal and neonatal outcomes there is a need to ensure access for all pregnant women to delivery units with surgical capacity in case of an obstetrical emergency. Also, a higher proportion of premature infants need to be born at units with access to neonatal care. This may be achieved by an improved system for referral including capacity of medical care during transportation. Other desirable improvements include antenatal identification of small for gestational age foetuses. In our study the induced abortion rate increased with maternal age and was highest among married women, indicating that induced abortions may be used as a method for family planning. The cultural norms in Vietnam limit women’s autonomy and reduce their possibility to make independent decisions about their reproductive health. Our studies emphasize the importance of adequate access for all women to maternal health care adjusted for their individual needs. A better understanding is needed of context-specific factors that influence couples’ choice of family planning methods, place of birth, and maternal health care. The communication between pregnant women and health care professionals needs further investigation. This knowledge is essential in order to develop reproductive health services that are accessible, acceptable and affordable to all.
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| 37. |
- Graner, Sophie, 1971-, et al.
(författare)
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The panorama and outcomes of pregnancies within a well-defined population in rural Vietnam 1999-2004.
- 2009
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Ingår i: International journal of behavioral medicine. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1532-7558 .- 1070-5503. ; 16:3, s. 269-77
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Pregnancy outcomes in the general population are important public health indicators. PURPOSE: The overall aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of reported pregnancies within a well-defined population, to identify risk groups for adverse pregnancy outcomes, and to suggest preventive measures. METHOD: A prospective population-based cohort study of pregnant women in Bavi district, Vietnam between 1 January 1999 and 30 June 2004. RESULTS: Pregnancy outcome was reported for 5,259 cases; 4,152 (79%) resulted in a live birth, 67 (1.3%) in a stillbirth, 733 (14%) in an induced abortion, and 282 (5.4%) in a spontaneous abortion. There was an increased risk of home delivery for women from ethnic minorities (OR = 1.85; 95%CI = 1.06-3.24) or with less than 6 years of schooling (OR = 7.36; 95%CI = 3.54-15.30). The risk of stillbirth was increased for ethnic minorities (OR = 6.34; 95%CI = 1.33-30.29) and women delivering at home (OR = 6.81; 95%CI = 2.40-19.30). The risk of induced abortion increased with maternal age. CONCLUSION: Our findings emphasize the public health significance of access to adequate family planning, counselling, and maternal health care for all women. Policies should specifically target women from high-risk groups.
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| 38. |
- Hasnain, Syed Farid-ul, et al.
(författare)
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Young adults' perceptions on life prospects and gender roles as important factors to influence health behaviour: a qualitative study from Karachi, Pakistan.
- 2012
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Ingår i: Global journal of health science. - : Canadian Center of Science and Education. - 1916-9736 .- 1916-9744. ; 4:3, s. 87-97
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore perceptions and expectations of young males and females, in Karachi, Pakistan, regarding their life prospects and gender roles, with resulting implications for health behaviour. The main theme emerging was "Young adults' prospects in life are hampered by psychosocial and gender equality constraints". Gender inequality and the low status of women in society were described as major obstacles to the overall development. Persistent withholding of information to the younger generation on sexual and reproductive health issues was perceived to increase exposure to health risks, particularly sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The present study reveals new discourses on equality among young adults, pointing towards an increasing, sound interaction between the sexes and aspirations for more gender equal relationships. Such views and awareness among the younger generation constitutes a strong force towards change of traditional norms, including reproductive health behaviour, and calls for policy change.
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| 39. |
- Hitimana, Regis, et al.
(författare)
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Incremental cost and health gains of the 2016 WHO antenatal care recommendations for Rwanda: results from expert elicitation
- 2019
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Ingår i: Health Research Policy and Systems. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1478-4505. ; 17
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objectives: High-quality evidence of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness is rarely available and relevant for health policy decisions in low-resource settings. In such situations, innovative approaches are needed to generate locally relevant evidence. This study aims to inform decision-making on antenatal care (ANC) recommendations in Rwanda by estimating the incremental cost-effectiveness of the recent (2016) WHO antenatal care recommendations compared to current practice in Rwanda. Methods: Two health outcome scenarios (optimistic, pessimistic) in terms of expected maternal and perinatal mortality reduction were constructed using expert elicitation with gynaecologists/obstetricians currently practicing in Rwanda. Three costing scenarios were constructed from the societal perspective over a 1-year period. The two main inputs to the cost analyses were a Monte Carlo simulation of the distribution of ANC attendance for a hypothetical cohort of 373,679 women and unit cost estimation of the new recommendations using data from a recent primary costing study of current ANC practice in Rwanda. Results were reported in 2015 USD and compared with the 2015 Rwandan per-capita gross domestic product (US$ 697). Results: Incremental health gains were estimated as 162,509 life-years saved (LYS) in the optimistic scenario and 65,366 LYS in the pessimistic scenario. Incremental cost ranged between $5.8 and $11 million (an increase of 42% and 79%, respectively, compared to current practice) across the costing scenarios. In the optimistic outcome scenario, incremental cost per LYS ranged between $36 (for low ANC attendance) and $67 (high ANC attendance), while in the pessimistic outcome scenario, it ranged between $90 (low ANC attendance) and $168 (high ANC attendance) per LYS. Incremental cost effectiveness was below the GDP-based thresholds in all six scenarios. Discussion: Implementing the new WHO ANC recommendations in Rwanda would likely be very cost-effective; however, the additional resource requirements are substantial. This study demonstrates how expert elicitation combined with other data can provide an affordable source of locally relevant evidence for health policy decisions in low-resource settings.
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| 40. |
- Holmlund, Sofia, et al.
(författare)
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Health professionals' experiences and views of obstetric ultrasound in Rwanda
- 2017
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Ingår i: European Journal of Public Health. - : OXFORD UNIV PRESS. - 1101-1262 .- 1464-360X. ; 27:Suppl_3, s. 367-
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Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Background: The World Health Organizatiońs new recommendations for antenatal care (ANC) include one ultrasound examination before 24 weeks of gestation. Implementation of ultrasound in ANC in low resource countries has been shown to increase pregnant women’s compliance to ANC visits, and facilitate detection of high-risk pregnancies. The aim of this study was to explore Rwandan health professionals’ experiences and views of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, resources and skills.Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study involving physicians (n = 222), obstetricians (n = 29), nurses (n = 387) and midwives (n = 269) managing pregnant women in RWANDA was performed, as part of the CROss Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Data were collected at 106 health facilities from November 2016 – March 2017.Preliminary results: One third of the participants performed ultrasound examinations (32.3%) and the majority on a daily basis (60.1%). The ultrasound examination where most participants reported high level skills was evaluation of the fetal heart rate (69.0%). A majority reported no skills or low level skills (79.9%) for ultrasound examination of the fetal heart, aorta and pulmonary artery. A majority (65.0%) reported that lack of ultrasound training of the ultrasound operator sometimes led to suboptimal pregnancy management. Almost all participants (91.3%) agreed that ANC would be improved if midwives were qualified to perform basic ultrasound examinations.Conclusions: The vast majority of health professionals in the study believed that maternity care can be improved if midwives learn to perform basic ultrasound examinations. Additional training of physicians performing obstetric ultrasound was also suggested to increase the quality of obstetric ultrasound surveillance and to further improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.Key messages:Physicians managing pregnant women need more training in obstetric ultrasound.Midwives need to be educated in performing obstetric ultrasounds.
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| 41. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
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Health professionals' experiences and views on obstetric ultrasound in Rwanda : A cross-sectional study
- 2018
-
Ingår i: PLOS ONE. - : PUBLIC LIBRARY SCIENCE. - 1932-6203. ; 13:12
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objectives: Implementation of ultrasound in antenatal care (ANC) in low-income countries has been shown to increase pregnant women’s compliance with ANC visits, and facilitate detection of high-risk pregnancies. In Rwanda, as in other low-income countries, access to ultrasound has increased significantly, but lack of training is often a barrier to its use. The aim of this study was to investigate Rwandan health professionals’ experiences and views of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, resources and skills.Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was undertaken between November 2016 and March 2017, as part of the CROss Country UltraSound Study (CROCUS). Data were collected at 108 health facilities located in both rural and urban areas of Rwanda, including provincial, referral, district and private hospitals as well as health centres. Participants were obstetricians (n = 29), other physicians (n = 222), midwives (n = 269) and nurses (n = 387).Results: Obstetricians/gynecologists/other physicians commonly performed ultrasound examinations but their self-rated skill levels implied insufficient training. Access to ultrasound when needed was reported as common in hospitals, but available to a very limited extent in health centres. The vast majority of participants, independent of health profession, agreed that maternity care would improve if midwives learned to perform basic ultrasound examinations.Conclusions: Barriers to provision of high quality ultrasound services include variable access to ultrasound depending on health facility level and insufficient skills of ultrasound operators. Physicians in general need more training to perform ultrasound examinations. Implementation of a general dating ultrasound examination seems to be a relevant goal as most health professionals agree that pregnant woman would benefit from this service. To further improve maternity care services, the possibility of educating midwives to perform ultrasound examinations should be further explored.
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| 42. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
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Health professionals’ experiences and views on obstetric ultrasound in Vietnam : a regional, cross-sectional study
- 2019
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Ingår i: BMJ Open. - : BMJ Publishing Group Ltd. - 2044-6055. ; 9
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objectives: Obstetric ultrasound is an important part of antenatal care in Vietnam, although there are great differences in access to antenatal care and ultrasound services across the country. The aim of this study was to explore Vietnamese health professionals’ experiences and views of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, resources and skills.Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was performed as part of the CROss Country UltraSound study.Setting: Health facilities (n=29) in urban, semiurban and rural areas of Hanoi region in Vietnam.Participants: Participants were 289 obstetricians/ gynaecologists and 535 midwives.Results: A majority (88%) of participants agreed that ‘every woman should undergo ultrasound examination’ during pregnancy to determine gestational age. Participants reported an average of six ultrasound examinations as medically indicated during an uncomplicated pregnancy. Access to ultrasound at participants’ workplaces was reported as always available regardless of health facility level. Most participants performing ultrasound reported high-level skills for fetal heart rate examination (70%), whereas few (23%) reported being skilled in examination of the anatomy of the fetal heart. Insufficient ultrasound training leading to suboptimal pregnancy management was reported by 37% of all participants. ‘Better quality of ultrasound machines’, ‘more physicians trained in ultrasound’ and ‘more training for health professionals currently performing ultrasound’ were reported as ways to improve the utilisation of ultrasound.Conclusions: Obstetric ultrasound is used as an integral part of antenatal care at all selected health facility levels in the region of Hanoi, and access was reported as high. However, reports of insufficient ultrasound training resulting in suboptimal pregnancy management indicate a need for additional training of ultraso
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| 43. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, 1980-
(författare)
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Health professionals’ experiences and views related to obstetric ultrasound in Rwanda and Vietnam
- 2019
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Doktorsavhandling (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- BackgroundObstetric ultrasound has become an indispensable part of maternity care in high-income countries, where it is universally used for screening, diagnostic and surveillance purposes. In low-income countries, insufficient numbers of trained health professionals’ is commonly a barrier to obstetric ultrasound use. Globally, health professionals’ encounter complex clinical situations in which rapid technical improvements in fetal surveillance and pregnancy interventions are components that influence clinical decisions, thereby implicating maternal and fetal health outcomes.AimsThe overall aim of this thesis was to explore health professionals’ experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, including ethical aspects, in two low-to-middle-income countries with different characteristics, cultures, religions and health care systems.MethodsStudy I (Rwanda) and Study III (Vietnam) are based on focus group discussions in which data were analysed using content analysis. Study I included six focus group discussions with 23 midwives recruited from six different hospitals in the area of Kigali and in the Southern province. Study III included four focus group discussions with 25 midwives working at three different hospitals in the Hanoi area. Study II (Rwanda) and Study IV (Vietnam) are cross-sectional studies using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square test and logistic regression analyses. A questionnaire, including items based on the results from previous qualitative studies, was used as the data collection tool. For Study II, health professionals (midwives, nurses, obstetricians, other physicians; N=907) working at 108 health facilities representing all provinces of Rwanda were recruited. Study IV constituted a regional sample of 824 health professionals (midwives, obstetricians/gynecologists) working at 29 health facilities in urban, semi-urban and rural parts of Hanoi, Vietnam.Main findingsObstetric ultrasound was regarded as a highly valued tool for pregnancy management in Rwanda as well as in Vietnam (Papers I–IV). In Rwanda, access to ultrasound was described as poor, especially for women living in rural areas (Paper I). In contrast, access to obstetric ultrasound was described as being very high in all health facilities in urban, semi-urban and rural areas of Hanoi (Paper III & Paper IV). In Rwanda, if a pregnancy was considered normal, obstetric ultrasound was not routinely performed (Paper I), while pregnant women in Vietnam were reported as undergoing several further ultrasound examinations in addition to the three examinations recommended by the Ministry of Health (Paper III). Midwives in Rwanda expressed a need to be trained in ultrasound, particularly those working at health centres in rural areas where ultrasound was rarely available (Paper I). A majority of health professionals (91%) also agreed that maternity care in Rwanda would improve if midwives were qualified to perform basic ultrasound examinations (Paper II). Sub-optimal pregnancy management due to a lack of or insufficient ultrasound training was reported by health professionals in both Rwanda (65%; Paper II) and Vietnam (37%; Paper IV). The use of obstetric ultrasound without medical indication was described as a troubling phenomenon, especially in Vietnam, where participants also reported that pregnant women sometimes replaced antenatal care surveillancewith ultrasound examinations (Paper III).ConclusionObstetric ultrasound plays a significant role in pregnancy management in Rwanda, although access varies significantly. The findings indicate that physicians in Rwanda are in need of additional formal ultrasound training in order to increase the quality of ultrasound surveillance and to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes. To increase ultrasound access for all pregnant women in Rwanda, midwives could potentially be trained to perform basic ultrasound examinations. In the Hanoi area of Vietnam, ultrasound is a well-integrated tool in pregnancy management and access was high. However, overuse and commercialisation of obstetric ultrasound examinations were described as common and need to be addressed to achieve adequate allocation of resources. The rapid development of technology in maternity care needs to be accompanied by medical guidelines stating the appropriate indications for ultrasound surveillance.
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| 44. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
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Improved maternity care if midwives learn to perform ultrasound : a qualitative study of Rwandan midwives' experiences and views of obstetric ultrasound
- 2017
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Ingår i: Global Health Action. - : Informa UK Limited. - 1654-9716 .- 1654-9880. ; 10:1
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Obstetric ultrasound has become an indispensable part of antenatal care worldwide. Although the use of ultrasound has shown benefits in the reduction of maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality, it has also raised many ethical challenges. Because of insufficient numbers of midwives in Rwanda, uncomplicated pregnancy care is usually provided by nurses in local health centres. Obstetric ultrasound is generally performed by physicians at higher levels of healthcare, where midwives are also more likely to be employed.Objectives: To explore Rwandan midwives’ experiences and views of the role of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, including ethical aspects.Methods: A qualitative study design was employed. Six focus group discussions were held in 2015 with 23 midwives working in maternity care in rural and urban areas of Rwanda, as part of the CROss Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS).Results: Obstetric ultrasound was experienced as playing a very important role in clinical management of pregnant women, but participants emphasised that it should not overshadow other clinical examinations. The unequal distribution of ultrasound services throughout Rwanda was considered a challenge, and access was described as low, especially in rural areas. To increase the quality of maternity care, some advocated strongly for midwives to be trained in ultrasound and for physicians to receive additional training. In general, pregnant women were perceived both as requesting more ultrasound examinations than they received, and as not being satisfied with an antenatal consultation if ultrasound was not performed.Conclusions: Obstetric ultrasound plays a significant role in maternity care in Rwanda. Increasing demand for ultrasound examinations from pregnant women needs to be balanced with medical indication and health benefits. Training of midwives to perform obstetric ultrasound and further training for physicians would help to address access to ultrasound for greater numbers of women across Rwanda.
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| 45. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
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Sub-optimal use of ultrasound examinations may result in underperformance of Vietnamese maternity care : A qualitative study of midwives’ experiences and views
- 2020
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Ingår i: Sexual & Reproductive HealthCare. - : Elsevier. - 1877-5756 .- 1877-5764. ; 24
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: To explore Vietnamese midwives’ experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, including ethical aspects.Methods: Using a qualitative design, content analysis of focus group discussions with midwives (N = 25) working at Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology at three hospitals in urban, semi-urban and rural parts of Hanoi were performed.Results: Obstetric ultrasound was reported as being a highly valuable tool, although replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication was perceived as troubling. Participants generally viewed the fetus as a human being already at an early stage of pregnancy. However, when complications occurred, the pregnant woman’s health was mostly prioritised.Conclusion: Although the use of ultrasound has many benefits during pregnancy, replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication is concerning and needs to be addressed. There is also a need to communicate the benefits of adequate antenatal care to pregnant women and caution about the non-beneficial use of repeated ultrasound examinations without medical indication. Additionally, non-medical ultrasounds consume limited healthcare resources and its use needs to be better regulated in Vietnam.
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| 46. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
-
Suboptimal use of ultrasound examinations may result in underperformance of Vietnamese maternity care : a qualitative study of midwives’ experiences and views
-
Annan publikation (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Objective: To explore Vietnamese midwives’ experiences and views on the role of obstetric ultrasound in relation to clinical management, including ethical aspects.Methods: Using a qualitative design, content analysis of focus group discussions with midwives (N=25) working at Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology at three hospitals in urban, semi-urban and rural parts of Hanoi were performed. Results: Obstetric ultrasound was reported as being a highly valuable tool, although replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication was perceived as troubling. Participants generally viewed the fetus as a human being already at an early stage of pregnancy. However, when complications occurred, the pregnant woman’s health was mostly prioritized.Conclusion: Although the use of ultrasound has many benefits during pregnancy, replacing ordinary antenatal care surveillance with ultrasound examinations and misuse of ultrasound without medical indication is concerning and needs to be addressed. There is also a need to communicate the benefits of adequate antenatal care to pregnant women and caution about the non-beneficial use of repeated ultrasound examinations without medical indication. Additionally, non-medical ultrasounds consume limited healthcare resources and its use needs to be better regulated in Vietnam.
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| 47. |
- Holmlund, Sophia, et al.
(författare)
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Vietnamese midwives' experiences of working in maternity care : A qualitative study in the Hanoi region
- 2022
-
Ingår i: Sexual & Reproductive HealthCare. - : Elsevier. - 1877-5756 .- 1877-5764. ; 31
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: This study aimed to explore Vietnamese midwives’ experiences of working in maternity care.Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was undertaken, which involved four focus group discussions with midwives (n = 25) working at three different hospitals in urban, semi-urban and rural parts of Hanoi region, Vietnam. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.Results: The overall theme, “Practising midwifery requires commitment” showed that Vietnamese midwives’ dedication to their work and to women's reproductive health helped them to cope with stress, pressure and negative aspects of their work environment. In the first category “Being the central link in the web of care”, midwives described themselves as having a key role in maternity care although collaborations with other health professions were important. In the second category “Rewarding role but also vulnerable position”, positive aspects of midwifery were expressed although the great pressure of the work midwives do was prominent. High workload, patients’ demands, and being negatively exposed and vulnerable, when adverse events occurred, were reported. In the third category “Morally challenging tasks”, ultrasound examinations to reveal fetal sex and working with abortion services were described as emotionally stressful.Conclusions: Although participating Vietnamese midwives experienced midwifery as essentially positive, they felt exposed to significant workload pressure, ethically highly demanding work and being blamed when adverse obstetric events occurred. Public health interventions to inform Vietnamese citizens about reproductive issues, as well as specific antenatal education measures may increase the understanding of evidence-based maternity care and complications that can occur during pregnancy and birth.
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| 48. |
- Karlsson, Therese, 1979, et al.
(författare)
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Effect of the New Nordic Diet compared with usual care on glucose control in gestational diabetes mellitus: Study protocol for the randomized controlled trial intervention with new Nordic DIet in women with GestatiOnal diabetes mellitus (iNDIGO)
- 2022
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Ingår i: Contemporary Clinical Trials. - : Elsevier BV. - 1559-2030 .- 1551-7144. ; 115
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy complication associated with short- and long-term health consequences for mother and child. First line treatment is diet and exercise but there is a recognized knowledge gap as to what diet treatment is optimal. A healthy Nordic diet has been associated with improved health but no studies in women with GDM exist. The New Nordic Diet (NND) is an initiative with the purpose to develop a healthy Nordic diet including foods with the potential to grow in Nordic countries; including fruit, berries, vegetables, whole-grain cereal products, nuts, fish, and rapeseed oil. The purpose of the intervention with new Nordic DIet in women with GestatiOnal diabetes mellitus (iNDIGO) is to test if the NND compared with usual care improves glucose control in women with GDM. Methods: The iNDIGO study is a randomized parallel controlled trial where 50 women with GDM will be randomized to either an NND or usual care for 14 days (30–32 weeks of gestation). Participants in the NND group will receive menus and food bags containing foods to be consumed. Primary outcome is glycemic control (time in target) measured using continuous glucose monitoring. Compliance to the dietary intervention will be tested using dietary biomarkers and adherence questionnaires. Conclusion: Diet treatment represents first line treatment in GDM but it remains unclear what type of diets are effective. iNDIGO is an efficacy study and will provide evidence as to whether a healthy Nordic diet can improve glucose control in women with GDM. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov registration Number: NCT04169243. Registered 19 November 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04169243.
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| 49. |
- Kelderer, Fanny, et al.
(författare)
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Associations between pre- and postnatal antibiotic exposures and early allergic outcomes : a population-based birth cohort study
- 2022
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Ingår i: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. - : Wiley. - 0905-6157 .- 1399-3038. ; 33:9
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Early life antibiotic treatment is one likely exposure influencing allergy risk. The objective was to investigate associations between pre- and postnatal antibiotic exposures and the development of allergic manifestations until age 18 months.Methods: We included 1387 mother–child dyads from the prospective, population-based NorthPop birth cohort study. Data on antibiotic exposures in pregnancy and childhood were collected by web-based questionnaires. Until the child turned 18 months old, parents (n = 1219) reported symptoms of wheeze, eczema, and physician-diagnosed asthma; parents (n = 1025) reported physician-diagnosed food allergy. At age 18 months, serum immunoglobulin E levels to inhalant (Phadiatop) and food (Food mix fx5) allergens were determined. Associations were estimated using bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions.Results: Prenatal antibiotic exposure was positively associated with food sensitization in the crude (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.01–3.26) but not in the adjusted analyses (aOR 1.58, 0.82–3.05). A borderline significant association was found between prenatal exposure and wheeze (aOR 1.56, 0.95–2.57). Postnatal antibiotics were positively associated with wheeze (aOR 2.14, 1.47–3.11), asthma (aOR 2.35, 1.32–4.19), and eczema (aOR 1.49, 1.07–2.06). Postnatal antibiotics were negatively associated with food sensitization (aOR 0.46, 95% CI 0.25–0.83) but not with food allergy nor sensitization to inhalants.Conclusion: Pre- and postnatal antibiotic exposure demonstrated positive associations with allergic manifestations and the former also with food sensitization. In contrast, there was a negative association between postnatal antibiotics and food sensitization. Food sensitization is often transient but may precede respiratory allergies. Future studies should investigate the relationship between antibiotic exposure and food sensitization later in childhood.
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| 50. |
- Kidanto, Hussein Lesio, et al.
(författare)
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Criteria-based audit on management of eclampsia patients at a tertiary hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- 2009
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Ingår i: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2393 .- 1471-2393. ; 9
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BACKGROUND: Criteria-based audits have been used to improve clinical management in developed countries, but have only recently been introduced in the developing world. This study discusses the introduction of a criteria-based audit in a tertiary hospital in an African setting, assesses the quality of care among eclampsia patients and discusses possible interventions in order to improve the quality of care. METHODS: We conducted a criteria based audit of 389 eclampsia patients admitted to Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Dar es Salaam Tanzania between April 14, 2006 and December 31, 2006. Cases were assessed using evidence-based criteria for appropriate care. RESULTS: Antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum eclampsia constituted 47%, 41% and 12% of the eclampsia cases respectively. Antepartum eclampsia was mostly (73%) preterm whereas the majority (71%) of postpartum eclampsia cases ware at term. The case fatality rate for eclampsia was 7.7%. Medical histories were incomplete, the majority (75%) of management plans were not reviewed by specialists in obstetrics, specialist doctors live far from the hospital and do not spend nights in hospital even when they are on duty, monitoring of patients on magnesium sulphate was inadequate, and important biochemical tests were not routinely done. Two thirds of the patient scheduled for caesarean section did not undergo surgery within agreed time. CONCLUSION: Potential areas for further improvement in quality of emergency care for eclampsia relate to standardizing management guidelines, greater involvement of specialists in the management of eclampsia and continued medical education on current management of eclampsia for junior staff.
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