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16 pages, 1650 KB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Various Physical Activity Interventions in Pregnant Women with Overweight or Obesity
by Mingmao Li, Hongli Yu, Guoping Qian, Anna Szumilewicz and Zbigniew Ossowski
Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3319; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243319 - 18 Dec 2025
Viewed by 646
Abstract
Background: Obesity during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) remains highly prevalent worldwide. Although physical activity (PA) interventions have shown potential benefits, evidence on the optimal type, intensity, and duration of exercise [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) remains highly prevalent worldwide. Although physical activity (PA) interventions have shown potential benefits, evidence on the optimal type, intensity, and duration of exercise for overweight or obese pregnant women remains limited. Methods: Electronic searches of EBSCOhost, Embase, PubMed and Web of Science were performed through August 2025 to identify randomized controlled trials comparing PA interventions versus usual prenatal care in overweight or obese pregnant women. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using Cochrane ROB domains. Continuous outcomes were pooled using inverse-variance meta-analytic methods and heterogeneity was quantified by I2. Results: Ten randomized trials (twelve intervention arms) comprising 1150 participants met the inclusion criteria. In the domain of blinding of participants and personnel, three studies (30%) were judged as low risk, while seven (70%) were unclear. PA interventions varied in modality (aerobic, resistance, endurance, walking), setting (clinic, community, home/mHealth), and the intervention period ranges from 10 to 34 weeks. Most interventions (80%) employed moderate intensity, and 30% combined aerobic and resistance training. Results of the meta-analysis showed that the pooled mean GWG was 9.93 ± 5.48 kg in the treatment group and 10.65 ± 5.70 kg in the control group. Overall, PA interventions produced a modest but statistically significant reduction in GWG compared with controls, with negligible between-study heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Conclusions: Tailored, moderate-intensity PA may have the potential to modestly reduce GWG. Although 30% included trials employed combined aerobic and resistance training, current evidence is insufficient to establish whether combined modalities are more effective than aerobic-only or resistance-only interventions. However, the current evidence is limited by small trial sizes, methodological variability and geographic concentration in higher-income settings. Larger, rigorously designed RCTs, including evaluations of digital delivery platforms and carefully supervised higher-intensity protocols, are needed to refine exercise prescriptions and inform clinical guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Obesity and Overweight: Prevention, Causes and Treatment)
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23 pages, 464 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of the Pregnancy Guilt Assessment Scale (PGAS): A Specific Tool for Assessing Guilt in Pregnancy
by Octavio Luque-Reca, Cecilia Peñacoba and Patricia Catalá
Healthcare 2025, 13(24), 3241; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243241 - 10 Dec 2025
Viewed by 313
Abstract
Background: Gestational guilt is an understudied emotional experience that can affect maternal well-being and prenatal bonding. This study aimed to develop and validate the Pregnancy Guilt Assessment Scale (PGAS) in a sample of Spanish pregnant women, assessing its factorial structure, reliability, and validity. [...] Read more.
Background: Gestational guilt is an understudied emotional experience that can affect maternal well-being and prenatal bonding. This study aimed to develop and validate the Pregnancy Guilt Assessment Scale (PGAS) in a sample of Spanish pregnant women, assessing its factorial structure, reliability, and validity. Methods: Four phases were conducted: (1) item generation through focus groups (n = 17) and cognitive interviews (n = 8); (2) expert content validation (n = 3); (3) exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in a pilot sample (n = 85); and (4) confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and validity testing in an independent sample (n = 171). Additional measures included antenatal depression, prenatal distress, affect, self-esteem, social support, and dispositional guilt. Internal consistency, correlations, and multiple regressions assessed reliability and convergent and incremental validity. Results: The final 16-item PGAS showed a bifactor structure with a general factor and four dimensions: G-LSC (Lack of self-care), G-UEE (Unmet emotional expectations), G-SP (Social pressure), and G-CWR (Conflict with work role). The model demonstrated good fit (χ2 = 109.42, df = 88, p = 0.061; CFI = 0.974; TLI = 0.965; RMSEA = 0.069; SRMR = 0.030) and high reliability (α total = 0.96; ω = 0.98; subscales α = 0.90–0.94). PGAS scores correlated positively with dispositional guilt, negative affect, prenatal distress, and antenatal depression. In regressions, G-UEE uniquely predicted depression (β = 0.213, p = 0.002) and G-SP predicted distress (β = 0.303, p < 0.001). Women who had considered pregnancy termination scored higher on guilt (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The PGAS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing pregnancy-related guilt in Spanish women, with potential relevance for perinatal mental health research and clinical practice, while future studies should evaluate its performance in other cultural settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coping with Emotional Distress)
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17 pages, 1453 KB  
Article
Increasing Prevalence and Temporal Trend of Prematurity, São Paulo, Brazil, 2000–2023
by Adriana Gonçalves de Oliveira, João Batista Francalino da Rocha, Edige Felipe de Sousa Santos, Hugo Macedo Jr., Orivaldo Florencio de Souza, Luiz Carlos de Abreu and Rubens Wajnsztejn
Epidemiologia 2025, 6(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/epidemiologia6040089 - 8 Dec 2025
Viewed by 529
Abstract
Background: premature birth is a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. Premature newborns require special care from birth, often requiring prolonged hospitalization and continuous monitoring by various specialists after discharge. Infant Mortality among children under five years of [...] Read more.
Background: premature birth is a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. Premature newborns require special care from birth, often requiring prolonged hospitalization and continuous monitoring by various specialists after discharge. Infant Mortality among children under five years of age in Brazil is alarming, with prematurity being the main cause of death in this age group. Objectives: we aim to analyze the prevalence and temporal trend of premature live births in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, in the period 2000–2023. Methods: this is an Ecological, Time-Series Study with secondary data on premature live births in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2000 to 2023. The variables in this study are aggregated measures by year. The Annual Percentage Change and the Average Annual Percentage Change in the percentage of premature live births were estimated by Joinpoint regression. Results: the percentage of premature live births in the period 2000 to 2023 was 9.71%. The average annual percentage change showed an increase of 2.30% per year. In the 2010 to 2013 segment, there was an increase of 12.58% per year (p ≤ 0.05), with subsequent stability in the 2013 to 2016 segment (p ≥ 0.05). The largest annual increases occurred in the number of 4 to 6 prenatal consultations and cesarean sections, with an annual percentage change of 4.51% per year and 2.68% per year, respectively. In the birth weight category equal to or greater than 2500 g, there was an increase in premature live births of 2.50% per year. All categories of the variables sex, type of pregnancy, and type of delivery increased in the period 2000–2023 (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: given the increase in the prematurity rate in the period 2000–2023, a long-term growing trend is expected in the largest and most developed state in Brazil. Full article
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12 pages, 926 KB  
Article
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery for Pediatric Lung Resection: Effects of a New Protocol
by Andrew J. Behrmann, Elizabeth A. Shumway, Brooklyn Campbell, Cannon Dew, Tara Kempker, Jessica Peuterbaugh, Venkataraman Ramachandran, Yousef El-Gohary and Ahmed I. Marwan
Children 2025, 12(12), 1658; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121658 - 7 Dec 2025
Viewed by 360
Abstract
Background: Prenatal detection of congenital lung lesions has increased with improved imaging. These abnormalities are safely treated with thoracoscopic lobectomy. We implemented an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol to standardize care and aim to evaluate its safety and efficacy compared to [...] Read more.
Background: Prenatal detection of congenital lung lesions has increased with improved imaging. These abnormalities are safely treated with thoracoscopic lobectomy. We implemented an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol to standardize care and aim to evaluate its safety and efficacy compared to a non-ERAS cohort. Methods: A single-center retrospective chart review was conducted for twenty patients (n = 10 ERAS, n = 10 non-ERAS) undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy from 2014–2024. Results: ERAS patients were generally younger at the time of surgery (ERAS: 4.25 ± 2.76 months vs. non-ERAS: 6.45 ± 6.78 months, p = 0.17). Postoperative length of stay was shorter in ERAS (1.77 ± 0.60 days) vs. non-ERAS patients (5.25 ± 3.79 days, p = 0.03) as well as chest tube duration (ERAS: 1.44 ± 0.73 days vs. non-ERAS 3.64 ± 2.38 days, p = 0.01). ERAS patients received lower amounts of opioid analgesics compared to non-ERAS (p = 0.0046). Use of the ERAS protocol also decreased cost for the healthcare system compared to non-ERAS patients (p = 0.0037). ERAS patients had no reintubations or prolonged air leaks (defined as >48 h), compared to four reintubations (p = 0.04) and three prolonged air leaks (p = 0.07) in the non-ERAS group. Crucially, there were no complications in the ERAS group, whereas five non-ERAS patients experienced Clavien–Dindo level III (one IIIa, two IIIb, two IVa) complications (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Our preliminary findings demonstrate the successful integration of a novel ERAS protocol in pediatric thoracoscopic lobectomies and its efficacy in reducing standard post-operative recovery times without an increased rate of complications. Earlier discharge in the ERAS group constitutes less healthcare burden with improved resource utilization and less family, work, and social disruption. Full article
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15 pages, 835 KB  
Systematic Review
Perinatal Health Disparities Between Roma and Non-Roma Populations: A Systematic Review
by Afroditi Dimogerontaki, Nikoletta Iacovidou, Styliani Paliatsiou, Paraskevi Volaki, Theodoros Xanthos, Ioannis Panagiotopoulos, Zoi Iliodromiti, Theodora Boutsikou and Rozeta Sokou
Epidemiologia 2025, 6(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/epidemiologia6040082 - 30 Nov 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
Background: Women from Roma communities face considerable health inequalities, primarily due to limited access to healthcare systems, alongside broader social and structural disadvantages. Among Roma women these disparities are reflected in poorer perinatal outcomes when compared to non-Roma populations. This systematic review aims [...] Read more.
Background: Women from Roma communities face considerable health inequalities, primarily due to limited access to healthcare systems, alongside broader social and structural disadvantages. Among Roma women these disparities are reflected in poorer perinatal outcomes when compared to non-Roma populations. This systematic review aims at: (a) exploring disparities in neonatal health outcomes between Roma and non-Roma populations in relation to maternal factors such as health status, lifestyle, and education; (b) summarizing key perinatal characteristics in these groups; (c) assessing the influence of prenatal care on neonatal outcomes. Comprehending these disparities is crucial for guiding effective interventions and promoting health equity. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in major databases, such as PubMed and Scopus, to identify studies published up to 2025. The eligible studies focused on observational research that compared perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW), stillbirth, and neonatal mortality, between Roma and non-Roma populations. The potential discrepancies between these populations are thoroughly discussed in the review. Results: A comprehensive search yielded a total of 157 studies. After meticulous screening, 48 relevant studies were identified, reporting substantial health disparities between Roma and non-Roma mothers and their newborns. Roma populations exhibited significantly increased rates of preterm birth, LBW, and neonatal mortality vs. non-Roma populations. Socioeconomic status, access to prenatal care, maternal education, and systemic discrimination were identified as the primary contributing factors to these disparities. Conclusions: The findings highlight the significant and enduring disparities in perinatal health between Roma and non-Roma populations. In order to effectively address these disparities, it is necessary to have a comprehensive and multi-level strategy that prioritizes the social determinants of health, ensures equitable access to high-quality maternal care, and mitigates actively systemic discrimination. Future research should prioritize the development and rigorous evaluation of targeted interventions to reduce these inequities and improve perinatal outcomes among Roma populations. Full article
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18 pages, 1331 KB  
Article
Diabetes in Pregnant Romanian Patients—Epidemiology and Prevention Strategies Proposal
by Bianca-Margareta Salmen, Teodor Salmen, Delia Reurean-Pintilei, Cristina Vaida and Roxana-Elena Bohiltea
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 8135; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14228135 - 17 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 471
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) in pregnancy, including type 1 (T1DM), type 2 (T2DM), and gestational DM (GDM), represents an increasing health burden due to its maternal and fetal complications. Despite the increment in the global prevalence estimates of DM in pregnancy, in [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) in pregnancy, including type 1 (T1DM), type 2 (T2DM), and gestational DM (GDM), represents an increasing health burden due to its maternal and fetal complications. Despite the increment in the global prevalence estimates of DM in pregnancy, in Romania, it has not been comprehensively described. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence and dynamics of DM in pregnancy in Romania between 2014 and 2024, using national databases, and to identify prevention strategies for reducing maternal and fetal complications. Methods: Data were obtained from the Romanian National Public Health Institute through two distinct sources: Database 1, consisting of reports from public and medical units associated with the National Health Insurance House and Database 2, based on the reports from general practitioners. Pregnancies complicated by DM were assessed by type, age group, and environmental settlement. Additional data were extracted on pregnancies with insufficient prenatal care and those of socially vulnerable individuals. Results: From 2014 to 2024, the prevalence of DM in pregnancy in Romania was consistently lower than European and global estimates, ranging from 1.01‰ to 3.08‰ in Database 1 and from 0.84‰ to 5.88‰ in Database 2, respectively. GDM accounted for the majority of cases, accounting for 65–88% of reported DM in pregnancy. The highest incidence was observed in the 20–39 years age group, with a growing proportion in women aged ≥40 years. Urban-rural disparities decreased over the decade, with rural cases reaching parity by 2024. Vulnerable populations included adolescents, women with insufficient prenatal care, and those with social risk factors, predominantly from rural areas. Conclusions: Although the reported prevalence of DM in pregnancy in Romania is lower than international figures, the true burden is likely underestimated. GDM remains the leading type of DM in pregnancy, mirroring global trends. Strengthening the reporting system, standardizing diagnostic criteria, and targeting high-risk groups through preconceptional counselling, lifestyle interventions, advanced monitoring technologies, and improving social support through the involved authorities are crucial steps to reduce maternal and fetal morbidity. Full article
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10 pages, 225 KB  
Article
Pregnancy and Childbirth in Neurodivergent Women: Shift Towards Personalized Maternity Care
by Anna M. Avdeeva, Mariia A. Parfenenko, Elena V. Bryzgalina, Kamilla T. Muminova and Zulfiya S. Khodzhaeva
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(11), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15110557 - 17 Nov 2025
Viewed by 681
Abstract
Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs), including autism spectrum disorder and related conditions, are increasingly recognized among women of reproductive age, yet their unique needs during pregnancy and childbirth remain poorly studied. Communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions may complicate maternity care, leading [...] Read more.
Introduction: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs), including autism spectrum disorder and related conditions, are increasingly recognized among women of reproductive age, yet their unique needs during pregnancy and childbirth remain poorly studied. Communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions may complicate maternity care, leading to higher risks of adverse outcomes and ethical challenges in clinical practice. This study aimed to examine pregnancy complications, delivery outcomes, and postpartum characteristics in women with NDs, compared with a control group, and to identify specific barriers in perinatal care. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, including 18 pregnant women with confirmed NDs and 21 matched controls with uncomplicated pregnancies. Data were extracted from medical records and included demographic parameters, pregnancy course, complications, labor management, neonatal outcomes, and documented communication or ethical issues. Comparative analyses were performed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables and Student’s t-test or Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables. Results: Pregnant women with NDs had significantly higher rates of pelvic girdle pain (66.7% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.01), vaginal bleeding (44.4% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.04), anxiety (61.1% vs. 19.0%, p = 0.007), and depression (50.0% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.02) compared with controls. Persistent daily nausea was also more common (50.0% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.03). Attendance of prenatal physician visits was lower in the ND group (66.7% vs. 95.2%, p = 0.02). Cesarean delivery occurred in 83.3% of ND women versus 23.8% of controls (p < 0.001), with psychiatric recommendations often cited as the indication. Breastfeeding was declined in 94.4% of ND cases versus 4.8% of controls. Labor duration was prolonged, and neonatal anthropometrics were lower in the ND group. Communication difficulties were documented in 83.3% of ND participants, and postpartum depressive symptoms were identified in 77.8%. Conclusions: Pregnant women with NDs face a multidimensional vulnerability in maternity care, including higher frequencies of pain, bleeding, nausea, anxiety, and depression, prolonged labor, markedly increased cesarean rates, reduced breastfeeding initiation, and smaller neonatal anthropometrics. Frequent communication barriers, guardian decision-making, and postpartum separation further complicate care. These findings underscore the necessity of neurodiversity-informed, individualized perinatal strategies, integrating sensory accommodations, trauma-informed communication, and proactive mental health support to improve both clinical outcomes and patient experiences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Personalized Medical Care)
13 pages, 874 KB  
Review
Facial Clefts and the Trigeminal Nerve: A Narrative Review of the Literature and Clinical Considerations in the Era of Personalized Medicine
by Natalia Lucangeli, Matilde S. Cannistrà, Domenico Scopelliti, Pasquale Parisi, Domenico Tripodi, Patrick Barbet and Claudio Cannistrà
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(11), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15110556 - 15 Nov 2025
Viewed by 613
Abstract
Background Facial clefts are rare congenital malformations, occurring in approximately 1 in 700 live births for cleft lip and palate and fewer than 1 in 100,000 for atypical Tessier clefts. They pose significant diagnostic and surgical challenges. While genetic, vascular, and environmental factors [...] Read more.
Background Facial clefts are rare congenital malformations, occurring in approximately 1 in 700 live births for cleft lip and palate and fewer than 1 in 100,000 for atypical Tessier clefts. They pose significant diagnostic and surgical challenges. While genetic, vascular, and environmental factors are well documented, growing embryological evidence suggests that the trigeminal nerve may also contribute to craniofacial development. This narrative review explores the association between trigeminal nerve development and facial clefts, aiming to provide a neurodevelopmental perspective with clinical implications, particularly in the context of personalized medicine, where patient-specific neuroanatomical and developmental factors can guide tailored care. Methods A narrative review of embryological, anatomical, and clinical data was conducted. Histological analyses of malformed fetuses and normal human embryos were integrated with published studies. Clinical findings were compared with Paul Tessier’s facial cleft classification and mapped against trigeminal innervation territories. Results Two groups of facial clefts emerged according to the timing of trigeminal disruption. Early embryonic damage (before 10 weeks of gestation) produces superficial epidermal continuity with fibrotic tissue replacing normal deep structures. Later fetal damage results in complete clefts with full tissue discontinuity. The distribution of these clefts corresponds to trigeminal nerve terminal branch territories, supporting the hypothesis that trigeminal innervation exerts trophic effects on craniofacial morphogenesis through neurohormonal signaling. Conclusions Early impairment of trigeminal development may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of certain clefts. The spatial and temporal relationship between nerve development and morphogenesis should be considered in classification and surgical planning. However, limitations of this narrative approach include selective literature coverage and lack of quantitative synthesis. Future directions include single-cell transcriptomics, organoid models, and fetal MRI tractography to clarify trigeminal–mesenchyme interactions and inform therapeutic strategies. These advances may foster a personalized medicine approach, enabling more precise prenatal diagnosis, individualized surgical planning, and optimized long-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Medicine for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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12 pages, 247 KB  
Article
Exploring the Association Between Medically Assisted Reproduction and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Clinical Correlations from a Retrospective Cohort
by Federica Gigliotti, Maria Eugenia Martelli, Silvia Foglietta, Alessia Balestrini and Carla Sogos
Pediatr. Rep. 2025, 17(6), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric17060118 - 4 Nov 2025
Viewed by 970
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as by repetitive behaviors, with a rising global prevalence. Concurrently, the use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) has increased among couples experiencing infertility. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as by repetitive behaviors, with a rising global prevalence. Concurrently, the use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) has increased among couples experiencing infertility. This study aimed to compare the frequency of ART-conceived children between those diagnosed with ASD and those with other neurodevelopmental disorders (nASD), and to examine differences in prenatal, perinatal and medical histories of ART- and spontaneously (non-ART)-conceived children within an ASD group. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from 507 children with a neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) diagnosis, classified into ASD (n = 234) and nASD (n = 273) groups. Subsequent analyses focused on the ASD group, further divided into an ART and non-ART group according to the conception mode. Results: ART-conceived children were more frequent in the ASD group than in the nASD group. Moreover, within ASD, ART was significantly associated with potential risk factors such as twin pregnancy, cesarean delivery, low birth weight and parental age. Logistic Binary Regression confirmed these results, suggesting that ART co-occurs with a cluster of perinatal and familial risk factors. Conclusions: Our results indicate that ART is not an independent causal exposure; however, given the retrospective design and the absence of a general population control group, causal inference cannot be drawn. The observed association with ASD appears to be mediated by perinatal and parental variables. These findings underscore the importance of improving obstetric management and care, and ensuring early developmental monitoring for ART-conceived children. Full article
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16 pages, 1757 KB  
Article
Prediction of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Nomogram Model Incorporating Lifestyle, Nutrition and Health Literacy Factors
by Minghan Fu, Menglu Qiu, Zhencheng Xie, Laidi Guo, Yun Zhou, Jia Yin, Wanyi Yang, Lishan Ouyang, Ye Ding and Zhixu Wang
Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3400; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213400 - 29 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1097
Abstract
Background: Over the past several decades, the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has risen markedly worldwide, posing serious threats to both maternal and child health by increasing adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term metabolic risks. Developing effective risk prediction tools for early detection [...] Read more.
Background: Over the past several decades, the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has risen markedly worldwide, posing serious threats to both maternal and child health by increasing adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term metabolic risks. Developing effective risk prediction tools for early detection and intervention has become the most important clinical priority in this field. The current GDM prediction models primarily rely on non-modifiable factors, for example age and body mass index, while modifiable factors such as lifestyle and health literacy, although strongly associated with GDM, have not been fully utilized in risk assessment. This study sought to establish and validate a nomogram prediction model combining modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, with the goal of identifying high-risk Chinese pregnant women with GDM at an early stage and promoting targeted prevention and personalized prenatal management. Methods: A multicenter study was conducted across 7 maternal health institutions in Southern China (2021–2023), enrolling 806 singleton pregnant women (14–23+6 weeks). The collected data included sociodemographic, clinical history, and modifiable factors collected through validated questionnaires: dietary quality, physical activity level, sleep quality, and nutrition and health literacy. GDM was diagnosed via 75 g oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 weeks. Predictive factors were identified through multi-variable logistic regression. A nomogram model was developed (70% modeling group) and validated (30% validation group). Receiver operator characteristic curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis were used to evaluate the prediction ability, the degree of calibration, and the clinical benefit of the model, respectively. Results: The finalized risk prediction model included non-modifiable factors such as maternal age, pre-pregnancy weight, and maternal polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as modifiable factors including dietary quality, physical activity level, sleep quality, nutrition and health literacy. The application of the nomogram in the modeling group and the validation groups showed that the model had high stability, favorable predictive ability, good calibration effect and clinical practicality. Conclusions: Overall, the integrated model demonstrates significant clinical utility as it facilitates the prompt identification of individuals at heightened risk and offers actionable targets for personalized interventions. In terms of future implementation, this model can be integrated into prenatal care as a rapid scoring table during early pregnancy consultations or incorporated into mobile health applications. This approach fosters precise prevention strategies for GDM in maternal health by emphasizing nutrition and health literacy, supplemented by coordinated adjustments in diet, physical activity, and sleep. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition in Women)
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12 pages, 439 KB  
Article
Perinatal Outcomes in Mexican Women with a History of Myomectomy: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Fela Vanesa Morales-Hernández, Jocelyn Andrea Almada-Balderrama, Andrea Alicia Olguín-Ortega, Pilar de Abiega-Franyutti, Enrique Reyes-Muñoz and Myrna Souraye Godines-Enriquez
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(21), 7677; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14217677 - 29 Oct 2025
Viewed by 731
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Myomectomy is the preferred treatment for women with uterine fibroids who desire to preserve their fertility. This study aimed to compare perinatal outcomes between Mexican women with and without a history of myomectomy, matched in a 1:2 ratio based on maternal [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Myomectomy is the preferred treatment for women with uterine fibroids who desire to preserve their fertility. This study aimed to compare perinatal outcomes between Mexican women with and without a history of myomectomy, matched in a 1:2 ratio based on maternal age and parity. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving women with and without a history of myomectomy who received prenatal care and delivered at a tertiary care hospital in Mexico City. Women with comorbidities such as pregestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, autoimmune diseases, nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, and cancer were excluded from the study. Group 1 consisted of women with a history of myomectomy, and Group 2 included matched women without such a history. The following perinatal outcomes were evaluated: miscarriage, preterm birth, cesarean section, obstetric hemorrhage, placenta previa, surgical adhesions, and obstetric hysterectomy. Adjusted relative risk (aRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated. Results: A total of 122 women were analyzed in group 1, and 244 in group 2. The risk of obstetric hemorrhage aRR 7.5 (95% CI 3.9–11.9), surgical adhesions aRR 11.8 (5.3–20.7), and placenta accreta aRR 15.3 (1.3–111) were significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2. Other outcomes, including miscarriage, preterm birth, cesarean section, placenta previa, and obstetric hysterectomy, were similar between groups. Conclusions: Mexican pregnant women with a history of myomectomy have a higher risk of obstetric hemorrhage, surgical adhesions, and placenta accreta compared to those without such a history. Full article
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20 pages, 1452 KB  
Article
Influence of Emergency Situations on Maternal and Infant Nutrition: Evidence and Policy Implications from Hurricane John in Guerrero, Mexico
by Edith Kim-Herrera, Ana Lilia Lozada-Tequeanes, Dinorah González-Castell, Edgar Arturo Chávez-Muñoz, Rocío Alvarado-Casas, Susana Rafalli-Arismendi, Matthias Sachse-Aguilera, Cecilia De Bustos and Anabelle Bonvecchio-Arenas
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1615; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111615 - 23 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1236
Abstract
In emergencies, the maternal and child populations face increased risk of morbidity and mortality, often exacerbated by malnutrition. Breastfeeding, adequate complementary feeding, and appropriate prenatal care can mitigate these risks. This descriptive cross-sectional study compared data collected before and after Hurricane John related [...] Read more.
In emergencies, the maternal and child populations face increased risk of morbidity and mortality, often exacerbated by malnutrition. Breastfeeding, adequate complementary feeding, and appropriate prenatal care can mitigate these risks. This descriptive cross-sectional study compared data collected before and after Hurricane John related to maternal, infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and the nutritional status of pregnant women and children under two years of age. Data were collected in December 2024 from the two provinces most affected in Guerrero, Mexico. Surveys were completed for 239 children through caregivers and 76 pregnant women, alongside anthropometric assessments. After the disaster, findings showed a significant decline in breastfeeding among 0–6-month-olds (88.7% to 71.1%) and an increase in dietary diversity in complementary feeding (3.6 ± 2.1 vs. 4.5 ± 1.5 food groups). Malnutrition, based on weight-for-length z-scores, was observed in 4.8% of children aged 0–6 months and 2.6% of those aged 6–24 months. According to mid-upper arm circumference, 8.4% of children aged 0–6 months presented malnutrition. Among pregnant women, based on body mass index, 41.5% had excessive pre-pregnancy weight, while 12.3% were underweight. These findings underscore the urgent need to integrate maternal and child nutrition into emergency preparedness and response strategies to protect vulnerable populations in Mexico. Full article
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25 pages, 2357 KB  
Article
Heart Rate Variability Patterns Reflect Yoga Intervention in Chronically Stressed Pregnant Women: A Quasi-Randomized Controlled Trial
by Marlene J. E. Mayer, Nicolas B. Garnier, Clara Becker, Marta C. Antonelli, Silvia M. Lobmaier and Martin G. Frasch
Bioengineering 2025, 12(11), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12111141 - 22 Oct 2025
Viewed by 3079
Abstract
Prenatal maternal stress (PS) is a risk factor for adverse offspring neurodevelopment. Heart rate variability (HRV) complexity provides a non-invasive marker of maternal autonomic regulation and may be influenced by mind–body interventions such as Yoga. In this quasi-randomized controlled trial, 28 chronically stressed [...] Read more.
Prenatal maternal stress (PS) is a risk factor for adverse offspring neurodevelopment. Heart rate variability (HRV) complexity provides a non-invasive marker of maternal autonomic regulation and may be influenced by mind–body interventions such as Yoga. In this quasi-randomized controlled trial, 28 chronically stressed pregnant women were followed from the second trimester until birth: 14 participated in weekly Hatha Yoga with electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings, and 14 received standard obstetric care with monthly ECGs. Group allocation was based on availability, with participants unaware of their assignment at enrollment. HRV complexity was assessed first with Sample Entropy and Entropy Rate and then expanded to 94 HRV metrics spanning temporal, frequency, nonlinear, and information-theoretical domains. All metrics were covariate-adjusted (maternal age, BMI, gestational age), standardized, and analyzed using timepoint-specific principal component analysis (PCA). From this, a unified HRV index was derived. Analyses revealed that HRV metric relationships changed dynamically across pregnancy, with PCA loadings shifting from frequency toward complexity measures in late gestation. The mixed effects model identified a significant time x group interaction effect (p = 0.041). These findings suggest a restructuring of HRV signal-analytical domains with advancing pregnancy attributable to Yoga and highlight the utility of advanced HRV analysis frameworks for future, larger trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosignal Processing)
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13 pages, 595 KB  
Article
Health-Related Quality of Life and Anxiety Levels in Pregnant Women with and Without Associated Pathologies
by Brenda-Cristiana Bernad, Mirela-Cleopatra Tomescu, Dana Emilia Velimirovici, Minodora Andor, Diana Lungeanu, Virgil Enătescu, Andreea Luciana Rață, Sergiu-Florin Arnăutu, Andreea Sălcudean, Oana Neda-Stepan and Lavinia Hogea
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(19), 6815; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14196815 - 26 Sep 2025
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Abstract
Background: Since quality of life encompasses social, psychological, and physical well-being, it is a crucial component of overall health and well-being. The quality of life has a significant impact on both the mother and the unborn child throughout the perinatal period. Both parties [...] Read more.
Background: Since quality of life encompasses social, psychological, and physical well-being, it is a crucial component of overall health and well-being. The quality of life has a significant impact on both the mother and the unborn child throughout the perinatal period. Both parties suffer when a threat, such as an illness, materialises because it lowers the quality of life. Using the SCL-90-R and SF-36, the current study aims to investigate variations in anxiety levels and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) between pregnant women with and without relevant medical conditions. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study between April 2023 and December 2024. Eligibility criteria were: (a) pregnant women; (b) at least 18 years old; (c) of Romanian nationality residing in Romania; and (d) who signed informed consent and agreed to participate. A Personal Information Form (PIF), the SF-36 Health Survey, and the SCL-90-R questionnaire were used to collect data. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS v26, using non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U, Spearman correlations). Results: Ninety-five of the 212 patients in the study reported having related medical conditions. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in the physical or mental components of the SF-36. Nonetheless, the pathological group’s anxiety scores were noticeably higher. Particularly in the pathological group, Spearman correlation revealed an inverse relationship between anxiety and SF-36 physical component scores. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of integrating psychological screening into prenatal care, particularly for women with medical comorbidities. Early identification and management of elevated anxiety may help preserve maternal HRQoL and contribute to better perinatal outcomes. Full article
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21 pages, 412 KB  
Article
Unveiling the Hemostatic Signature of Prematurity: A Prospective Rotational Thromboelastometry-Based Analysis
by Martha Theodoraki, Alexia Eleftheria Palioura, Aikaterini-Pothiti Palioura, Abraham Pouliakis, Zoi Iliodromiti, Theodora Boutsikou, Nicoletta Iacovidou and Rozeta Sokou
Medicina 2025, 61(9), 1718; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61091718 - 21 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1114
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The evaluation of the haemostatic mechanism in premature neonates remains particularly challenging, due to their immature haemostatic system, the influence of inflammation and the variety of clinical factors. This prospective study aimed at (a) assessing the haemostatic profile of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The evaluation of the haemostatic mechanism in premature neonates remains particularly challenging, due to their immature haemostatic system, the influence of inflammation and the variety of clinical factors. This prospective study aimed at (a) assessing the haemostatic profile of clinically stable preterm neonates by Rotational Thromboelastometry [ROTEM; (EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM assays)], (b) establishing reference ranges, and (c) investigating potential differences in comparison to healthy term neonates. We also evaluated the impact of clinical and perinatal factors on the haemostatic status of this vulnerable population. Materials and Methods: 69 premature neonates with no underlying morbidity and 226 healthy term neonates were the study subjects. In term neonates, blood was collected on the 2nd-3rd day of life, if sampling was required for any other reason (hyperbilirubinemia, ABO blood group incompatibility screening, maternal thyroid antibodies, or insufficient prenatal care), whereas in premature neonates, blood was collected between the 4nd-10th day after stabilisation. The parameters measured for each ROTEM assay included Clotting Time (CT), Clot Formation Time (CFT), Alpha angle (α, degrees), Clot Amplitude at 5 and 10 min (A5, A10), Maximal Clot Firmness (MCF), and Lysis Index at 30, 45 and 60 min (Li30, Li45, and Li60 respectively). Results: The data analysis demonstrated a prothrombotic profile in preterm neonates, characterized by increased values of A5, A10, (MCF), and α-angle, and shortened CT and CFT across all assays (EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM), when compared to term neonates. A statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between gestational age and clot lysis parameters (INTEM Li45, Li60). Additionally, hematocrit levels were negatively correlated with clot amplitude and kinetics of clot development, while platelet count was positively associated with clot firmness parameters (A5, A10, MCF) and α-angle. Mode of delivery and the presence of gestational diabetes did not significantly affect ROTEM assay values. Preterm neonates with a history of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) exhibited a more pronounced hypercoagulable profile compared to those without RDS, as reflected by the enhanced clot strength and reduced CT, findings that may be attributed to postnatal pulmonary inflammation and its systemic effects on coagulation. Conclusions: This study introduces for the first time reference values for the parameters of ROTEM assays (EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM) in clinically stable preterm neonates—a highly vulnerable patient group with a distinct need for accurate and individualized monitoring of their haemostatic status. The combined assessment of these assays enhances diagnostic precision, and offers a more comprehensive evaluation of neonatal haemostasis. By defining reference ranges in whole blood, this work provides novel data that support the integration of ROTEM into clinical transfusion algorithms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Conception to Birth: Embryonic Development and Disease)
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