Maternal and Newborn Health Research Roundup – December 2024

1.

Factors influencing the uptake of antenatal care in Uganda: a mixed methods systematic review 

A recent study has identified a range of socioeconomic, cultural, and logistical factors that affect antenatal care (ANC) attendance among pregnant women in Uganda. The review, which analyzed 47 studies published between 2012 and 2022, found that higher wealth, younger age, marital status, and media access were associated with ANC uptake. Financial constraints, cultural beliefs, gendered decision-making, and geographical distance from healthcare facilities were major barriers. The study also highlighted the importance of early initiation of ANC visits, with women starting care before 16 weeks of pregnancy being more likely to complete four ANC visits. To improve ANC attendance as Uganda shifts to an eight-contact ANC model, the study suggests empowering women financially, ensuring reliable ANC equipment and medication, and engaging communities through education. These insights may help policymakers and healthcare providers tailor interventions to enhance ANC accessibility and quality, ultimately reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. (8 November 2024) 

2.

Dignified care and associated factors among mothers who gave birth at public hospitals, in Sidama Regional State, southern Ethiopia, 2023 

A recent study from Ethiopia reveals that only 44.1% of mothers experienced dignified care during childbirth. The authors referred to “dignified care” as the way individuals treat others and a person’s inner self. Key factors associated with dignified care included secondary education, spontaneous vaginal delivery, the presence of a companion during labor and delivery, shorter hospital stays, and midwife attendance. Despite efforts to improve maternal care, the prevalence of dignified care in Sidama remains lower than the national average for respectful maternity care in Ethiopia. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance the quality of maternal care, such as prioritizing midwife attendance, promoting the presence of companions, facilitating shorter hospital stays, and improving educational opportunities for mothers. These measures are crucial to improving the overall experience and outcomes for mothers giving birth in public hospitals in Sidama. (5 November 2024) 

3.

Evaluation of criterion-based audit in improving quality of neonatal birth asphyxia care at Balaka district hospital in Malawi 

A recent study from the Balaka district hospital in Malawi demonstrates the potential impact of criterion-based audits (CBA) on enhancing neonatal care, specifically for birth asphyxia, which is the leading cause of neonatal mortality in the district, accounting for 37.3% of neonatal deaths. Conducted at Balaka district hospital, the research involved a review of 110 case notes before and after implementing CBA. The findings revealed substantial improvements in several key areas: checking vital signs increased from 80% to 98.2%, laboratory investigations from 0.9% to 74%, and correct diagnosis from 60% to 81%. Additionally, correct treatment practices rose from 18.7% to 81%, and daily weight checks from 49.1% to 93%. These improvements were associated with a notable reduction in neonatal mortality, decreasing from 11% to 5%. (4 November 2024) 

4.

Association between maternal dietary diversity during pregnancy and birth outcomes: evidence from a review and meta-analysis 

A recent review and meta-analysis provides compelling evidence on the critical role of maternal nutrition in influencing birth outcomes. Analyzing data from 33 studies, the researchers found that inadequate dietary diversity (DD) during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of low birth weight (LBW) and small for gestational age (SGA) infants, with odds ratios of 1.71 and 1.32, respectively. However, no significant association was observed between maternal DD and preterm birth. The findings underscore the necessity of promoting diverse and adequate diets among pregnant women to mitigate the risks of adverse birth outcomes. The study advocates for the implementation and expansion of nutritional programs targeting pregnant women, particularly in low-resource settings, to ensure they receive a variety of nutrients essential for healthy fetal development. (14 November 2024)