Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology最新文献

{"title":"Omphalocele with a patent vitelline duct: intraoperative identification of an uncommon presentation.","authors":"Zoe Paige, Jay Kerecman, Sean Barnett","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00264-9","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00264-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BACKGROUND: Omphalocele with a concomitant patent vitelline duct is a rare presentation, with very few cases reported in the literature. Most reported cases present with visible bowel prolapse, meconium drainage or mucosal exposure at birth. Presentations without obvious intestinal herniation or mucosal exposure are extremely uncommon and pose diagnostic challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: A male neonate was born to a G3P2 mother at 38 + 6/7 weeks via spontaneous vaginal delivery after a pregnancy notable for a 20-week prenatal ultrasound concerning for omphalocele. Upon delivery, the omphalocele membrane was intact. Shortly after birth, the neonate developed persistent bilious emesis. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated normal rotation, and abdominal X-ray was reassuring without evidence of obstruction or volvulus. No other congenital anomalies were demonstrated after VACTERL workup, including echocardiogram, abdominal and spinal ultrasounds. Genetic testing for Beckwith-Wiedmann syndrome was found to be normal. Surgical exploration revealed a patent vitelline duct fistula connecting the small bowel to the omphalocele sac. The fistula and adjacent small bowel were resected, followed by primary end-to-end anastomosis and primary fascial closure. The postoperative course was uncomplicated, and the neonate was thriving without any evidence of infection or obstruction at 2-month and 6-month follow-up visits. CONCLUSION: There have been very few cases of omphalocele with a patent vitelline duct reported in the literature, and those that have been described present with either visible mucosal prolapse or intestinal extrusion at birth. This case demonstrates that a vitelline duct anomaly may remain clinically occult and present only with obstructive symptoms such as bilious emesis. In neonates with omphalocele who develop gastrointestinal obstruction despite unrevealing imaging studies, clinicians may entertain the possibility of a concurrent vitelline duct remnant as a part of their differential diagnosis. Recognition of this association may guide operative planning and improve diagnostic awareness of this uncommon embryologic anomaly. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-06-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13231684/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148152421","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Obstetric violence and associated factors among women who gave birth at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024: a cross-sectional study.","authors":"Mitiku Desalegn, Aman Endris Shikur, Erstie Nigusse, Yidnekachew Dedachew, Tewoderos Shitemaw","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00265-8","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00265-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BACKGROUND: Obstetric violence during labor and delivery is a significant contributor to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Developing respectful maternity care during childbirth has been identified as an effective approach to reducing perinatal mortality. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of obstetric violence and associated factors among women who gave birth at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among mothers who gave birth at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from November 1 to 30, 2024. Four hospitals were randomly selected, and a systematic sampling method was employed to enroll 409 postpartum women. Data were collected using structured face-to-face interviews and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with obstetric violence. Statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 308 (75.3%) mothers with 95% CI (71.84–79.67) experienced at least one form of obstetric violence during institutional childbirth. The three most commonly reported forms were non-consented care (62.3%), non-confidential care (44.5%), and physical abuse (39.6%). Induction of labor (AOR = 3.56, 95% CI: 1.89–7.79), cesarean delivery (AOR = 0.304, 95% CI: 0.18–0.82), and female birth attendants (AOR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.76–6.47) were significantly associated with obstetric violence. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of obstetric violence was high, with four out of five mothers experiencing at least one form of mistreatment during childbirth. Induction of labor, mode of delivery, and sex of birth attendant were significant predictors. Stakeholders need to develop comprehensive interventions addressing all identified risk factors to promote respectful maternity care. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-06-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13227818/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148145810","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Do maternal self-reported socio-demographic and green space characteristics influence neonatal birth weight? Evidence from Ghana.","authors":"Sylvester Kumi Boakye, Leslie Danquah","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00260-z","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00260-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Neonatal birth weight is a critical indicator of infant survival and long-term health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the burden of low birth weight remains high. While maternal socio-demographic factors are well-established determinants of birth weight, growing evidence suggests that environmental exposures such as access to and interaction with green spaces may also influence pregnancy outcomes through pathways related to stress reduction, physical activity, and improved environmental quality. However, empirical evidence on the role of maternal green space exposure in shaping neonatal birth weight is limited in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana. This study, therefore, aimed to examine the relationship between maternal self-reported socio-demographic and green space characteristics and neonatal birth weight in Sunyani, Ghana.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study was cross-sectional and exploratory. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was administered to 383 mothers in a hospital-based setting in Sunyani, Ghana. Eleven (11) Socio-demographic and seven (7) green space characteristics were investigated. Chi-square, Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify relationships among factors.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among the defined maternal age categories, mothers aged 25-29 years had significantly higher odds of having neonates with normal birth weight compared to those aged < 20 years (AOR = 12.18, 95% CI: 1.06-139.15). Mothers who often visited green spaces during pregnancy were two times more likely to have a normal birth weight compared to others who 'rarely' did (AOR = 2.73, 95%CI [1.14-6.48]). Mothers who indicated green spaces and natural vegetation were 'somewhat visible' were less likely to have neonates with normal birth weight (AOR = 0.11, 95%CI [0.01-0.95]) compared to those who were 'highly visible'.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Our study findings suggest that neonatal birth weight is influenced by both maternal socio-demographic and green space characteristics. Child health policy must not only look at maternal socio-demographic or clinical factors, but green space exposure during pregnancy as well. Further studies are recommended to explore relationships using objective measures of green space.</p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13224681/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148140150","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Evaluating physical activity questionnaires for postpartum women.","authors":"Karan Pongpanit, Sabrina Belcourt, Marie Laurance Gagnon, Brie-Anna Gerardi, Kim Tran, Mariane Bertagnolli","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00263-w","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00263-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BACKGROUND: Maintaining adequate physical activity (PA) is essential for recovery and long-term health in postpartum women undergoing physical therapy and rehabilitation. However, no self-report measure has been specifically developed for these women, and selecting appropriate existing tools available for postpartum PA monitoring remains challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of commonly used PA questionnaires by comparing their outcomes with objective activity data from a wearable tracker. METHODS: This quantitative cross-sectional observational study examined the relationship between self-reported and objectively measured physical activity. Twenty-three postpartum women (average 5 months postpartum) participating in rehabilitation were recruited. Three 7-day recall PA questionnaires were administered: the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Kaiser Physical Activity Survey (KPAS), and the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ). Objective PA data (daily step count and distance) were concurrently collected over a two-week period using the AmazFit Band 5 Fitness Tracker, with only the second week in the analysis. RESULTS: The IPAQ-SF showed moderate-to-strong correlations with both average daily step count (r = 0.781, p < 0.001) and distance (r = 0.783, p < 0.001). In contrast, the PPAQ (r = 0.708, p < 0.001) and KPAS (r = 0.645, p < 0.01) correlated significantly only with their respective sports activity subcomponents. CONCLUSIONS: Among the assessed tools, the IPAQ-SF demonstrated the strongest alignment with objective activity metrics, making it a more suitable option for assessing total PA in postpartum women. However, the PPAQ and KPAS provided valuable insights into specific components of PA, particularly household chores and caregiving tasks, which are highly informative during the postpartum period. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13147797/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147847131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Time to death and its predictors of mortality among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit in public general hospitals of central zone of Tigray, Ethiopia 2024: a retrospective cohort study.","authors":"Tsehaye Hailemariam Teklu, Mekuria Kassa Nerea, Almaz Berhe Weldemicheal","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00261-y","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00261-y","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Neonatal mortality, accounting for nearly half of global under-five deaths, declines slower than post-neonatal mortality. Preterm birth, perinatal asphyxia, and infections are leading causes in Ethiopia, where skilled birth attendance, Kangaroo Mother Care, and Antenatal Care are prioritized. The Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey noted a rise in neonatal mortality from 29 to 30 deaths per 1000 live births (2016-2019). This trend highlights critical gaps in prevention and healthcare delivery. Targeted research is essential to reduce preventable deaths and enhance child survival.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To determine Time-to-Death and Predictors of Neonatal Mortality Among Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Admissions in Public General Hospitals of Tigray's Central Zone, Ethiopia: A 2024 Cohort Study.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A hospital-based retrospective cohort study involved 357 neonates selected via systematic random sampling. Data was coded and entered using Epi-data 4.6 and analyzed with STATA 14. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated the median survival time. Log rank tests compared survival differences across explanatory variable categories. The Cox proportional hazard regression model assessed relationships between independent and outcome variables. Model fitness was evaluated graphically using the Cox Snell residual graph.</p><p><strong>Result: </strong>Among 357 Neonates, 60(16.8%) died with an overall incidence rate of 17.7 (95%CI: 13.7, 22.8) deaths/1000 neonates-days total follow-up 3388 days. And the median survival time was 27 days. The predictors of neonatal mortality were rural residence (AHR = 3.44, 95% CI: 1.55, 7.66), lack of ANC (AHR = 2.80, 95% CI: 1.22, 6.51), HIV positive Mothers (AHR = 2.93; 95% CI: 1.27, 6.72) and delayed breast feeding (AHR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.07, 4.20).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Neonatal mortality was 17.7 per 1000 neonate-days, with a median survival of 27 days. Rural residence, no ANC visits, maternal HIV positivity, and delayed breastfeeding were key predictors of neonatal death. Programs should focus on improving ANC access and community-based survival strategies, especially for rural mothers. Enhanced efforts are critical to reduce neonatal mortality.</p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13137695/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147824487","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"From knowledge to action: understanding midwives' challenges in implementing delayed cord clamping in Northern Ghana.","authors":"Akum Leticia Achangebe, Abiba Nyari, Hikimatu Zakariah, Tahiru Rafatu","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00258-7","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00258-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Delayed cord clamping (DCC) is a cost-effective neonatal care intervention that has been proven to enhance iron stores, increase hemoglobin levels, and improve long-term infant health. Despite its inclusion in national guidelines, adherence to DCC protocols in Ghana remains inconsistent. This study assessed midwives' knowledge, practices, and barriers to the implementation of DCC in the Tamale Metropolis to inform targeted interventions to improve neonatal outcomes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study was conducted among 105 practicing midwives in the Tamale Metropolis. Quantitative data were analyzed using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression to identify factors independently associated with routine DCC practice. Routine delayed cord clamping practice was operationalized as clamping performed within 1-3 min after birth in accordance with WHO recommendations.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Awareness of delayed cord clamping was high (94%), yet 57% perceived it as potentially harmful. Although 73% reported routinely practicing delayed cord clamping, only 51% adhered to the WHO-recommended 1-3-minute delay. After adjustment for age, years of experience, education level, and facility type, midwives who had received formal delayed cord clamping training were significantly more likely to adhere to recommended timing (AOR = 4.76, 95% CI: 1.78-12.72). Recent training (< 1 year) (AOR = 5.63, 95% CI: 1.42-22.21) and the presence of a facility protocol (AOR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.12-7.68) were also independently associated with practice.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Despite widespread awareness, persistent misconceptions, inadequate training, and institutional barriers hinder optimal delayed cord clamping implementation in Northern Ghana. Regular professional development, standardized institutional protocols, and strengthened supervision are critical to bridging the knowledge-practice gap and ensuring consistent, evidence-based neonatal care.</p><p><strong>Clinical trial number: </strong>Not applicable.</p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13134336/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147824468","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Facilitating quality improvement activities related to newborn care in low- and middle-income countries: challenges and possible solutions.","authors":"Indira Narayanan, Rajesh Mehta, Nigel Livesley, Tamar Chitashvili","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00262-x","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00262-x","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Global strategies to improve newborn survival have expanded from basic Essential Newborn Care practices to more comprehensive approaches that address the specific needs of small and sick newborns. Despite advances, many low- and middle-income countries continue to face challenges in reducing neonatal mortality, necessitating supportive, evidence-based approaches such as quality improvement activities. Quality improvement focuses on empowering healthcare teams to identify and address gaps in care, with studies demonstrating its superior impact compared to traditional training and/or supervision. As we gain more experience applying it to improve newborn care, we need to learn from early efforts and adapt steps as required. This paper outlines four areas that program managers including teaching instructors can address to strengthen quality improvement efforts: (1) adapting quality improvement structures and training, (2) simplifying related tools and methods for ease of use at the frontline, (3) prioritising specific newborn health improvement goals with appropriate data and relevant indicators, and (4) strengthening health system elements to sustain the quality improvement initiatives. The paper describes challenges in each of these areas and proposes potential solutions. While point-of-care approaches are vital, it is equally essential to engage communities, foster leadership at all levels, promote equity and strengthen health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This includes establishing regional and national technical bodies and strategies, working with ministries of health, stakeholders, and professional associations, to ensure sustainability, equity, and expansion of quality newborn care.</p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13134129/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147824489","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Effect of tactile-kinesthetic stimulation on breastfeeding performance among preterm neonates in a neonatal intensive care unit.","authors":"Selvi S, Valarmathi V, Subash S, Helen Shaji J C","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00259-6","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00259-6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>INTRODUCTION: Preterm birth, which means the baby is born before the 37th week of pregnancy, is very often linked to a later start in breastfeeding and to feeding problems because the baby’s neuromotor system is not yet fully coordinated. Early sensory interventions like tactile-kinesthetic stimulation (TKS) can potentially improve the feeding skills and physiological stability of preterm babies. METHODS: This research, a quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group design, was carried out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of a tertiary care hospital. Forty eligible neonates were recruited using purposive sampling and allocated alternately to the experimental group (n = 20) and control group (n = 20). Neonates who met the inclusion criteria, such as gestational age 28–37 weeks, postnatal age 11–28 days at the time of data collection, birth weight 800 g to 1500 g, and delivery through either normal vaginal delivery or lower segment caesarean section (LSCS), were included in the study. The intervention was carried out by the researcher, who was a proficient neonatal stimulator. The study group underwent 30 min of tactile, kinesthetic stimulation, which included gentle stroking and passive leg movements, thrice a day for seven successive days before each breastfeed. On the other hand, the control group was given standard NICU care without any additional stimulation. Breastfeeding performance was assessed using the Preterm Infant Breastfeeding Behavior Scale (PIBBS). Data were analysed using paired t-tests and independent t-tests with SPSS software. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Before the intervention, the mean breastfeeding performance score was 4.80 ± 1.64 in the experimental group and 5.10 ± 1.50 in the control group, indicating that there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). Following the intervention, the mean breastfeeding performance score in the experimental group substantially rose to 14.60 ± 1.57, while the control group experienced only a minor rise to 6.20 ± 1.45. The enhancement in breastfeeding performance in the experimental group was statistically significant when compared to the control group (t = 32.19, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Initially, breastfeeding scores between the two groups were equivalent. Nevertheless, after tactile, kinesthetic stimulation, the experimental group showed a substantial enhancement in breastfeeding ability compared to the control group. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-04-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13072653/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147679309","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploration of facilitators and barriers to the implementation of the eight-contact antenatal care model in healthcare facilities in Nigeria.","authors":"Oluwayomi T Adebisi, Margaret O Akinwaare","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00256-9","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00256-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>OBJECTIVES: This study explored the facilitators and barriers influencing the implementation of the eight-contact ANC model in selected healthcare facilities in Nigeria. DESIGN: A qualitative study using semi structured interviews. The data were analysed via thematic analysis. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, involving key informant interviews with antenatal care providers and focus group discussions with pregnant women. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. SETTING: Antenatal care clinic in selected health facilities. PARTICIPANTS: A purposive sample of 8 antenatal care providers (doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals) who are heads of their departments between November and April 2025 were eligible to participate. Four focus group discussions with pregnant women were held, each group consist of 8 pregnant women, with an age range of 16–38 years, and data saturation was reached. RESULTS: Four themes were identified: (1) implementation status, (2) facilitators of implementation, (3) barriers to implementation, and (4) opinions of pregnant women. Major barriers identified by antenatal care providers include inadequate awareness and training Pregnant women also reported low health literacy, long travel distances, delayed initiation of ANC, and negative provider attitudes as challenges (The way she attended to me was rude”). Providers reported a key finding, willingness to adopt innovations (Training healthcare workers on the latest guidelines in antenatal services will help in implementing any policy that is being introduced”), availability of health education materials, and If there is availability of supplies, we will be able to implement the model. It’s been a while since we got supplies from the government to facilitate ANC services”). CONCLUSIONS: This study offers valuable insight into the experiences of some frontline health professionals working in antenatal clinics. This study concludes that the eight-contact ANC model has not been effectively implemented due to systemic challenges such as insufficient provider training, weak institutional support, and socioeconomic limitations among pregnant women. Although women value ANC services, gaps in awareness, structural constraints, and negative care experiences hinder their full utilization. A disconnect remains between WHO guidelines and real-world clinical practice in these settings. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-04-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13047834/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147610856","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Early dyadic interventions for critically ill neonates: a scoping review.","authors":"Mariana C Aokalani, Louisa Flynn, Anniette Maldonado, Katherine L Wisner, Catherine Limperopoulos, Nickie N Andescavage","doi":"10.1186/s40748-026-00252-z","DOIUrl":"10.1186/s40748-026-00252-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BACKGROUND: Early dyadic interventions improve parental mental health, infant development, and parent-infant relationships. We reviewed and synthesized existing research on early dyadic interventions with a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) inpatient component, with an emphasis on psychotherapeutic approaches. We mapped the available evidence and identified gaps in the literature. Followed PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. METHODS: Search engines used:PubMed, MEDLINE, MEDLINE Plus, EBSCO, Cochrane Central, Google Scholar, and Science.gov. Key search terms included “dyadic interventions in the NICU,” NICU dyadic health,” “attachment-focused interventions in NICU, ‘neonatal intensive care unit, “Early Relational interventions” and “relational interventions in the NICU.” English papers between 2014 and 2024. Feasibility, physical and/or mental health, and relational outcome measures were included. Nine of the 2331 papers reviewed met the inclusion criteria. Extracted author, year of publication, intervention type, study design, sample characteristics, location outcomes, mental health intervention, and the number of early dyadic interventions included. RESULTS: All early dyadic interventions improved parents’ mental health, infant neurodevelopment, and parent-infant relationships. We found substantial heterogeneity across included studies in terms of study design, sample characteristics, operationalization of dyadic intervention, and outcome measures. However, most interventions were not psychotherapy; more detailed research is needed to understand the long-term impact of early psychotherapeutic dyadic interventions. CONCLUSION: Infant and Early Childhood dyadic interventions have yet to be studied in the inpatient NICU setting. This highlights a critical need for research to study the feasibility and impact of infant mental health dyadic interventions for this vulnerable population in this setting. </p>","PeriodicalId":74120,"journal":{"name":"Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-04-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13045093/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147596452","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}