International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics : the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
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Int J Gynaecol Obstet · Oct 2009
ReviewTwo million intrapartum-related stillbirths and neonatal deaths: where, why, and what can be done?
Intrapartum-related neonatal deaths ("birth asphyxia") are a leading cause of child mortality globally, outnumbering deaths from malaria. Reduction is crucial to meeting the fourth Millennium Development Goal (MDG), and is intimately linked to intrapartum stillbirths as well as maternal health and MDG 5, yet there is a lack of consensus on what works, especially in weak health systems. ⋯ Each year the deaths of 2 million babies are linked to complications during birth and the burden is inequitably carried by the poor. Evidence-based strategies are urgently needed to reduce the burden of intrapartum-related deaths particularly in low- and middle-income settings where 60 million women give birth at home.
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Int J Gynaecol Obstet · Oct 2009
ReviewReducing intrapartum-related deaths and disability: can the health system deliver?
Each year 1.02 million intrapartum stillbirths and 904,000 intrapartum-related neonatal deaths (formerly called "birth asphyxia") occur, closely linked to 536,000 maternal deaths, an estimated 42% of which are intrapartum-related. ⋯ Even in high-performance settings, there is scope to improve intrapartum care and especially reduce impairment and disability. Addressing missed opportunities for births already occurring in facilities could avert 36% of intrapartum-related deaths. Improved quality of care through drills and audit are promising strategies. However, the majority of deaths occur in poorly performing health systems requiring urgent strategic planning and investment to scale up effective care at birth, neonatal resuscitation, and community mobilization as well as to develop, adapt, and introduce tools, technologies, and task shifting to reach the poorest.
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Int J Gynaecol Obstet · Oct 2009
Prevalence and predictors of dysmenorrhea among students at a university in Turkey.
To determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea among Turkish university students and to evaluate the effects of sociodemographic characteristics on the condition. ⋯ The high prevalence of dysmenorrhea among Turkish university students is a significant health problem that requires attention.
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Int J Gynaecol Obstet · Oct 2009
Randomized Controlled TrialA pilot randomized controlled trial of controlled cord traction to reduce postpartum blood loss.
To evaluate whether controlled cord traction (CCT) for management of the third stage of labor reduced postpartum blood loss compared with a "hands-off" management protocol. ⋯ CCT may reduce postpartum blood loss. The present findings support conducting a large trial to determine whether CCT can prevent postpartum hemorrhage.