Ultrasound-detected subchorionic hemorrhage and the obstetric implications

Effectiveness of a Web-Based Training Intervention in Teaching Emergency Physicians First-Trimester Point-of-Care Ultrasound Image Interpretation

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To examine the effectiveness of an education intervention on emergency physician accuracy in identifying pregnancy-related findings from first-trimester point-of-care ultrasound. Case features associated with the odds of a correct response were also determined.

METHODS

This was a multicenter prospective cross-sectional study in a convenience sample of emergency physicians in the United States and Canada. The unsupervised web-based education intervention included first-trimester point-of-care ultrasound cases acquired through the transabdominal (n=200 cases) or transvaginal (n=200 cases) approach. Physicians deliberately practiced identifying pregnancy-related imaging findings until they achieved a mastery standard.

RESULTS

In 204 participants, there were learning gains in accuracy (15.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 14.6 to 15.8), sensitivity (15.1%; 95% CI 14.3 to 15.9), and specificity (14.3%; 95% CI 13.7 to 15.0). Of these, 132 (64.7%) achieved the mastery standard in a median of 60 cases (interquartile range 58 to 83). Case features associated with an increased odds of a correct intrauterine pregnancy "present" diagnosis were transvaginal versus transabdominal-acquired images (odds ratio [OR]=1.5; 95% CI 1.3 to 1.8) and fetal heartbeat (OR=4.3; 95% CI 3.4 to 5.5). A decreased odds was associated with an eccentrically located intrauterine pregnancy (OR=0.2; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.2), subchorionic hemorrhage (OR=0.5; 95% CI 0.4 to 0.6), adnexal mass (OR=0.7; 95% CI 0.6 to 0.9), and endometrial collection (OR=0.1; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.2).

CONCLUSIONS

This study's intervention was effective in teaching first-trimester point-of-care ultrasound image interpretation and identified the specific variables that posed the greatest diagnostic challenges. The methods and results from this work can serve to expand learning opportunities for this critical skill in emergency medicine.

Incidence of subchorionic hematoma and contributing factors in assisted reproductive technologies-a retrospective cohort study

Background

To explore the incidence of subchorionic hematoma (SCH) in IVF-ET (In vitro fertilization-embryo transfer, IVF-ET) fresh, IVF-FET (In vitro fertilization-freeze-thaw embryo transfer, IVF-FET), PGT-FET (preimplantation genetic testing-freeze-thaw embryo transfer, PGT-FET), AIH (artificial insemination by husband, AIH), and natural pregnancy (NP), and to analyze contributing factors.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study. Patients were included: IVF-fresh ET, IVF-FET, PGT-FET, AIH, and NP patient groups. The incidence of SCH in different ART and effect of SCH on pregnancy outcome were compared, Further, multivariate analyses of the occurrence of SCH were conducted.

Results

The incidence of SCH with IVF-fresh ET, IVF-FET, PGT-FET, AIH and NP was 27.50%, 22.56%, 16.86%, 12.95%, and 13.02%, respectively. Compared with the incidences of SCH with AIH and NP that for IVF-fresh ET and IVF-FET transfer were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The occurrence of SCH was not significantly associated with miscarriage and was significantly negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with high-quality embryos.

Conclusion

The incidence of SCH in ET was increased compared with that in the Not ET groups, especially after fresh ET. ET unavoidably seems to contribute to the development of SCH; however, it does not affect the pregnancy outcome.

Impact of Subchorionic Hematoma on Pregnancy Outcomes in Obstetric Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of subchorionic hematoma (SCH) in patients with obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (OAPS) on pregnancy outcomes, as well as the clinical value of anticoagulant therapy.

Methods

This retrospective study included 109 OAPS patients treated at the Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang from December 2019 to December 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: SCH group (n=40) and non-SCH group (n=69). Baseline data, laboratory indicators (anti-β2GP I, lupus anticoagulant, ACL, D-D, AA, ADP, ATIII, PS, and PC), complications, and pregnancy outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups concerning the abortion rate, live birth rate (all P>0.05). However, we reported a significantly higher rate of preterm delivery occurring between 34-37 in the SCH group (13.7% vs 1.7%, P=0.027). The proportion of patients with triple-positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) was significantly higher in the SCH group compared to the non-SCH group (7.5% vs 0.0%, P=0.047). During pregnancy but before routine first-trimester therapy was initiated, the levels of β2GP I, LA, ACL, D-D, AA, and ADP in the SCH group were higher than those in the non-SCH group, while ATIII, PS, and PC levels were lower (all P < 0.05). After treatment, the levels of β2GP I, LA, ACL, D-D, AA, and ADP decreased in both groups compared to their pre-treatment levels (all P < 0.05); however, the levels of D-D and PS in the SCH group remained higher than those in the non-SCH group (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients with OAPS who present with SCH during pregnancy, laboratory indicators suggest more severe immune disorders and coagulopathy, as well as an increased risk of preterm delivery.

Potential mechanisms for chorioamniotic membrane rupture after subchorionic hematoma

BACKGROUND

Subchorionic hematoma is a risk factor for preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and preterm birth. A small proportion of persistent subchorionic hematoma leads to a chronic abruption-oligohydramnios sequence.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the mechanism by which subchorionic hematomas may damage chorioamniotic membranes.

STUDY DESIGN

1) The number and subtype of macrophages were determined by immunohistochemistry in chorioamniotic membranes from 8 subchorionic hematoma patients who delivered preterm (25.5 (24-32) weeks of gestation (median and range)) and 6 gestational age-matched control patients (25.5 (25-28) weeks of gestation (median and range)). Further, the thickness and fibrosis of the membranes were quantified. 2) We also developed an intrauterine hematoma model in pregnant mice, and the effects of hematoma on the amnion were analyzed by histology and immunofluorescence. 3) In vitro, primary human amnion mesenchymal cells were cocultured with M2-differentiated macrophages, and changes in mesenchymal cells were analyzed.

RESULTS

1) Subchorionic hematoma increased the number of iron-laden macrophages in the human amnion. These macrophages were CD206+, a marker of macrophages required for the maintenance of homeostasis, tissue remodeling, and metabolic adaptations. The collagen layer of the amnion tended to be thickened in patients with subchorionic hematoma. Interestingly, α-smooth muscle actin+ myofibroblasts were increased in the amnion mesenchymal layer in patients with subchorionic hematoma. Vimentin, a mesenchymal marker, was expressed in the epithelial layer of the hematoma amnion. Together, these findings indicate epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the amnion of membranes from pregnancies with subchorionic hematomas. 2) These findings in human amnion were confirmed in a mouse model of intrauterine hematoma. 3) Further, in vitro, coculture of human amnion mesenchymal cells with M2-differentiated human macrophages resulted in transformation of these cells into α-smooth muscle actin-expressing myofibroblasts via the TGF-β‒Smad3 pathway.

CONCLUSION

Subchorionic hematoma induces migration of macrophages to chorioamniotic membranes which activate the transition of amnion mesenchymal cells to myofibroblasts. These myofibroblasts may contribute to fibrosis of the amnion and damage chorioamniotic membranes.

Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy and adverse clinical outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy has been recognised as a significant risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the association between vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy and clinical adverse effects using a systematic review and meta-analysis.Methods: Databases of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed (including Medline), Cochrane Library and Science Direct were searched until June of 2023. Data analysis using statistical test fixed- and random-effects models in the meta-analysis, Cochran and meta-regression. The quality of the eligible studies was assessed by using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale checklist (NOS).Results: A total of 46 relevant studies, with a sample size of 1,554,141 were entered into the meta-analysis. Vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth (OR: 1.8, CI 95%: 1.6-2.0), low birth weight (LBW; OR: 2.0, CI 95%: 1.5-2.6), premature rupture of membranes (PROMs; OR: 2.3, CI 95%: 1.8-3.0), abortion (OR: 4.3, CI 95%: 2.0-9.0), stillbirth (OR: 2.5, CI 95%: 1.2-5.0), placental abruption (OR: 2.2, CI 95%: 1.4-3.3) and placenta previa (OR: 1.9, CI 95%: 1.5-2.4).Conclusions: Vaginal bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy is associated with preterm birth, LBW, PROMs, miscarriage, stillbirth, placental abruption and placenta previa. Therefore, physicians or midwives need to be aware of the possibility of these consequences and manage them when they occur.

Association between subchorionic hematoma in the first trimester and outcomes of singleton pregnancies achieved through assisted reproductive technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the association between first trimester (≤ 12 weeks gestation) subchorionic hemorrhage (SCH), and maternal and neonatal outcomes in women who conceived with the help of assisted reproductive technique (ART).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for observational studies that specifically focused on women who achieved pregnancy via ART and investigated the relationship between early pregnancy (within 12 weeks of gestation) SCH and maternal and neonatal outcomes. Only studies with singleton pregnancies and reporting data on the comparator group (women without SCH) were included. Primary outcomes of interest included incidences of early (within 20 weeks of gestation) pregnancy loss, preterm delivery, caesarean section, and live birth rates. Pooled effect sizes were reported as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Nine studies were included. All studies had a cohort design. In all studies, the primary assisted reproduction technique used was in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Compared to pregnancies without SCH, women with diagnosed early pregnancy SCH have a similar risk of preterm birth (< 37 weeks) (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.83, 1.22), low birth weight (< 2500 g) (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.59, 1.73) and fetal growth restriction (OR 1.57, 95% CI 0.62, 4.02). The gestational age (in weeks) (weighted mean difference (WMD) - 0.06, 95% CI - 0.18, 0.06) and the birth weight (in grams) (WMD - 16.5, 95% CI - 62.9, 29.8) were also similar in the two groups. The odds of early pregnancy loss (OR 1.39, 95% CI 0.97, 2.01), live birth (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.55, 1.08) and caesarean delivery (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.81, 1.16) were statistically similar in both groups. The risk of maternal adverse outcomes such as gestational diabetes (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.74, 1.29), hypertensive disorder (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.63, 1.43), premature rupture of membranes (PROM) (OR 1.36, 95% CI 0.90, 2.05) and placental abruption (OR 2.44, 95% CI 0.57, 10.5) was also similar in both the groups. There was no evidence of publication bias.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that SCH may not significantly increase the risk of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnancies conceived through ART, particularly IVF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number CRD42024533996.

Pregnancy outcomes of fetal reduction in patients with intrauterine haematoma following double embryo transfer

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is there an association between intrauterine haematoma (IUH) and pregnancy outcomes in patients who undergo fetal reduction after double embryo transfer (DET), and if so, what is the relationship between IUH-related characteristics and pregnancy outcomes?

DESIGN

Clinical information and pregnancy outcomes of women who underwent fetal reduction after DET were analysed. Patients with other systematic diseases, ectopic pregnancy or heterotopic pregnancy, monochorionic twin pregnancies and incomplete data were excluded. Stratification of IUH pregnancies was undertaken based on IUH-related characteristics. The main outcome was incidence of fetal demise (<24 weeks), with other adverse pregnancy outcomes considered as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Thirty-four IUH patients and 136 non-IUH patients who underwent fetal reduction after DET were included based on a 1:4 match for age, cycle type and fertilization method. IUH patients had a higher incidence of early fetal demise (20.6% versus 7.4%, P = 0.048), threatened abortion (48.1% versus 10.3%, P<0.001) and postpartum haemorrhage (PPH; 14.8% versus 4.0%, P = 0.043) compared with non-IUH patients. IUH was an independent risk factor for early fetal demise [adjusted OR (aOR) 3.34, 95% CI 1.14-9.77] and threatened abortion (aOR 8.61, 95% CI 3.28-22.61) after adjusting for potential confounders. IUH pregnancies undergoing fetal reduction that resulted in miscarriage had larger IUH volumes and earlier diagnosis (both P < 0.03). However, IUH characteristics (i.e. volume, changing pattern, presence or absence of cardiac activity) were not associated with threatened abortion or PPH.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal reduction should be performed with caution in IUH pregnancies after DET as the risk of fetal demise is relatively high. Particular attention should be given to IUH patients with early signs of threatened abortion and inevitable fetal demise.

Association between graded subchorionic hematoma and adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies: a prospective observational cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether different grades of subchorionic hematoma (SCH) are involved in the timing of birth and the development of adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnant women.

METHODS

A total of 171 women with singleton pregnancies, 72 of whom had SCH before 20 weeks and between 12 and 20 weeks of gestational age (GA), were included in this study conducted between January 2018 and December 2021. These patients were divided into three subgroups based on the size of the subchorionic hematoma on ultrasound imaging. Baseline demographic data, obstetric outcomes, and risk factors for subchorionic hematoma were compared for the two groups.

RESULTS

A higher number of pregnancies from the SCH group resulted in miscarriage (30.56% versus 2.02%, p < 0.0001), early preterm birth (8.33% versus 1.01%, p = 0.0035), premature rupture of membranes (15.28% versus 4.04%, p = 0.0103), fetal growth restriction (9.72% versus 0%, p = 0.0015), and delivery 13.18 days earlier (274.34 ± 11.25 versus 261.16 ± 29.80, p = 0.0013) than those from the control group. Compared with SCH detected before 12 weeks of GA, the rate of miscarriage increased, and the live birth rate decreased significantly in patients with SCH caught between 12 and 20 weeks of GA. With the increase in hematoma size, the likelihood of miscarriage increased significantly. Further analysis found that delivery occurred earlier in the medium/large SCH group (271.49 ± 23.61 versus 253.28 ± 40.68/261.77 ± 22.11, p = 0.0004/0.0073) but not in the small SCH group (274.34 ± 11.25 versus 267.85 ± 21.01, p = 0.2681) compared to the control group. Our results also showed that the anterior placenta (52.04% versus 33.33%, p = 0.0005, OR = 0.3137, 95% CI [0.1585, 0.601]) is a protective factor for subchorionic hematoma.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that women with SCH are at a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and are independently associated with miscarriage, early preterm birth, premature rupture of membranes, and fetal growth restriction. A subchorionic hematoma, especially detected between 12 and 20 weeks of GA, is very likely to cause miscarriage or preterm birth in women with a medium or large subchorionic hematoma.

Associations between the size and duration of asymptomatic subchorionic hematoma and pregnancy outcomes in women with singleton pregnancies

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the size and duration of asymptomatic subchorionic hematoma and pregnancy outcomes in women with singleton pregnancies.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study that enrolled 701 singleton pregnant women who were diagnosed with asymptomatic subchorionic hematoma by ultrasound at 5-10 gestational weeks. The control group recruited 640 normal pregnant women without subchorionic hematoma who were matched with subchorionic hematoma group on baseline characteristics. The pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two groups, and the associations of the size and duration of subchorionic hematoma with pregnancy outcomes were analyzed by logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal pregnancy group, the incidence of, gestational diabetes mellitus, gestational thrombocytopenia, placenta adhesion, fetal growth restriction, macrosomia in subchorionic hematoma group were higher (all P < 0.05). After adjusting for confounding factors, the hematoma size was positively associated with the occurrence of gestational hypothyroidism (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.029[1.004-1.054]), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.095[1.047-1.146]), term premature rupture of membranes (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.044[1.005-1.085]), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.030[1.0004-1.060]), gestational thrombocytopenia (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.078 [1.045-1.113]), placenta adhesion (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.054 [1.027-1.082]), and the duration of hematoma was positively associated with the incidence of term premature rupture of membranes (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.070[1.027-1.115]), gestational diabetes mellitus (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.938 [1.886-1.993]) and fetal growth restriction (adjusted OR[95%CI]: 1.194 [1.124-1.268]).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence, size and duration of a first-trimester asymptomatic subchorionic hematoma may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes at later gestations such as term premature rupture of membranes and fetal growth restriction.

Subchorionic Hematoma Association with Pregnancy Complications and Outcomes in the Third Trimester

INTRODUCTION

Our objective was to explore the clinical features, pregnancy complications, and outcomes of subchorionic hematomas (SCHs) in the third trimester.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis and evaluation of 1112 cases diagnosed with SCHs from January 2014 to December 2020. Comparisons were performed according to the clinical features (e.g., number of pregnancies, parity, gestational weeks, and age), pregnancy complications, and outcomes associated with SCHs.

RESULTS

In total, 71.85% (799/1112) of the patients were diagnosed with different pregnancy complications. The overall rates of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertensive disorder complicating pregnancy (HDCP), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), and IVF were 12.14%, 7.55%, 17.27%, and 10.34%, respectively. The positive rates for newborn outcomes such as premature birth and low birth weight (LBW) were 9.35% and 6.47%, respectively. There was a significant relationship between repeated pregnancies and the incidence of GDM (p < 0.05), but not HDCP, PROM, or IVF. The proportion of SCH patients who conceived through IVF was significantly higher among primiparas than among multiparas (p < 0.05), but was not significantly different in terms of GDM, HDCP, or PROM. Premature birth was not a high-risk factor for most SCH patients with HDCP, IVF, or PROM (p < 0.05), most of whom delivered at term. The rate of cesarean sections for SCH patients with GDM, HDCP, or IVF was significantly higher than that for vaginal deliveries (p < 0.05), but this was not affected by age.

CONCLUSIONS

The coexistence of SCHs with HDCP, IVF, or PROM lacked an effective predictive value for premature birth, but increased the rate of a cesarean section.

Subchorionic hematoma and risk of preterm delivery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association between early pregnancy with subchorionic hematoma and preterm delivery and other adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies.

DATA SOURCES

English studies published from 2000 to July 15, 2022 were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The inclusion criteria were: singleton pregnancy, subchorionic hematoma, and perinatal outcomes. Studies including multiple pregnancy, basic molecular studies, case reports (series), and conference reviews were excluded.

METHODS

Data analysis was mainly conducted with Review Manager (RevMan) and Stata, and the results were represented with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated by the Cochrane risk assessment scale.

RESULTS

In total, 370 studies were retrieved from the above databases. Our review included 16 studies and divided them into 2 subgroups: natural pregnancy (12 studies) and assisted reproductive pregnancy (4 studies). The relevant characteristics of each study were analyzed in detail. The primary outcome was preterm delivery. The secondary outcomes were miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, cesarean delivery, and preeclampsia. We found that subchorionic hematoma in the first trimester was not significantly associated with preterm delivery (odds ratio, 1.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.82-1.51) or other adverse outcomes in singleton pregnancy. Regression analysis found that the large heterogeneity of the included studies might be related to whether the included study population (early pregnancy with subchorionic hematoma) was complicated with threatened abortion (P<.05). However, no studies caused large heterogeneity according to sensitivity analysis. Finally, 15 studies related to preterm delivery did not have publication bias (Egger test: P=.26). However, subchorionic hematoma in the first trimester was associated with miscarriage in single pregnancies (natural pregnancy: odds ratio, 3.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.98-4.75; assisted reproductive pregnancy: odds ratio, 1.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.90).

CONCLUSION

In singleton pregnancy, we found no association between subchorionic hematoma in the first trimester and preterm delivery. Although there was a correlation with miscarriage, the possible gestational age of miscarriage was not stated. More studies are needed to further address the herein posed research questions.

Intrauterine Hematoma in the First Trimester and Pregnancy Complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Studies evaluating the relationship between intrauterine hematoma in the first trimester and prenatal complications are conflicting.

Objectives

To evaluate whether intrauterine hematoma identified in the first trimester in women with singleton pregnancies is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.

Search Strategy

A comprehensive literature search of three databases (Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science) was performed up to September 2021.

Selection Criteria

Cohort and case-control studies that have evaluated the relationship between intrauterine hematoma identified before 14 gestational weeks and the risk of prenatal complications, in women with a singleton pregnancy.

Data Collection and Analysis

Two members of our team independently assessed the studies for inclusion, collected the data of interest, and assessed the risk of bias, and calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) using random-effects models.

Main Results

Nine studies, including 1,132 women with intrauterine hematoma and 11,179 controls met the inclusion criteria. Intrauterine hematoma increased the risk of spontaneous abortion [OR 2.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23–3.75], preterm birth (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.37–2.43), fetal growth restriction (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.13–4.83) and placental abruption (OR 3.16, 95% CI 1.23–8.13). No statistically significant association was found between intrauterine hematoma and preeclampsia (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.87–1.94).

Conclusion

Intrauterine hematoma in the first trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, placental abruption, and fetal growth restriction.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.

Vanishing twin syndrome is associated with first-trimester intrauterine hematoma in twin pregnancies after in vitro fertilization

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is there an association between intrauterine hematoma (IUH), vanishing twin syndrome (VTS), and subsequent complications in twin pregnancies after in vitro fertilization (IVF)? What are the risk factors for these complications?

DESIGN

Women who presented with two live gestational sacs following double embryo transfer were included. Patients with systematic diseases, artificial fetal reduction, and incomplete data were excluded. Further stratification of IUH pregnancies was performed according to IUH-related characteristics (i.e., volume, changing pattern, and relationship with fetal cardiac activities). The primary outcome was the incidence of VTS, while adverse outcomes in the surviving singleton and the gestational age of VTS were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The incidence of IUH was 13.8%. A total of 1,078 twin pregnancies including 539 IUH pregnancies and 539 non-IUH pregnancies were included. IUH pregnancy was associated with higher risks of VTS (26.9% vs. 18.7%, p = 0.001) as well as a higher incidence of preterm birth (p = 0.001, crude OR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.28-3.09, adjusted OR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.09-1.24), threatened abortion (p < 0.001, crude OR = 9.12, 95% CI 2.90-28.69, adjusted OR = 6.63, 95% CI 1.69-14.67), and postpartum hemorrhage (p = 0.024, crude OR = 3.13, 95% CI 1.09-8.99, adjusted OR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.08-1.32) in the surviving singleton. There was no significant difference in risks of other complications. The absence of fetal cardiac activities at the diagnosis of IUH predicted VTS (p < 0.001, crude OR 4.67, 95% CI 3.67-5.78, adjusted OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.56-5.14) and fetal loss at smaller gestational age (7.81 ± 2.10 vs. 11.39 ± 5.60 weeks, p < 0.001), while an IUH with an increasing volume did not increase the risk of VTS but might induce threatened abortion in the surviving fetus (p < 0.001, crude OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.32-2.55, adjusted OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.13-2.13).

CONCLUSIONS

IUH was a risk factor for VTS in twin pregnancies following double embryo transfer and elevated the risks of threatened abortion, preterm birth, and postpartum hemorrhage in the surviving singleton. The absence of fetal cardiac activities at the diagnosis of IUH elevated the risks of VTS, while an IUH with an increasing volume was associated with threatened abortion without elevating the risks of VTS. An IUH diagnosed before the presence of fetal cardiac activities also resulted in an earlier miscarriage. The study suggests that attention be paid to twin pregnancies with first-trimester IUH to prevent VTS and subsequent adverse perinatal outcomes.

HIGHLIGHTS

First-trimester intrauterine hematoma (IUH) following double embryo transfer is associated with a higher incidence of vanishing twin syndrome (VTS) and elevated subsequent risk of threatened abortion, preterm birth, and postpartum hemorrhage in the surviving singleton. Other perinatal outcomes were not associated with the diagnosis of first-trimester IUH. The absence of fetal cardiac activities at the diagnosis of IUH was of predictive value toward VTS, while an IUH with an increasing size was associated with threatened abortion without elevating the risk of VTS. Incomplete fetal cardiac activities and earlier detection of an IUH might also predict miscarriage at smaller gestational age.

Autoantibodies in association with subchorionic haematoma in early pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To explore the possible aetiology of subchorionic haematoma (SCH), especially its association with autoantibodies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Early pregnant women who were detected SCH through ultrasonography were identified as the study group and those without SCH at comparable ages who visited the clinic at the same period of time were compared as the control group. Indexes of laboratory immune tests were compared between the two groups, as well as their pregnancy outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 97 SCH patients and 130 control cases were recruited in this study. A higher proportion of women was detected autoantibodies in the SCH group compared with control group (45.36% vs 21.54%, p = .000). Positive rates of ANA (24.74% vs 10.77%, p = .005) and laboratory antiphospholipid antibodies (ACL, anti-β2 GP1 or LA) (25.77% vs 11.54%, p = .005) showed significant differences between the two groups. The incidence of vaginal bleeding was significantly higher in the SCH group (43.30% vs 20.00%, p = .000). While the miscarriage rates were not significantly different (17.53% vs 15.38%, p = .666). And there were no significant differences in terms of preterm delivery rate, caesarean section rate, birth weight and pregnancy complications. Most SCHs (96.25%) were absorbed before 20th gestational week. In the SCH group, the average birth weight was significantly lower in women with autoantibodies. Clinical features and other pregnancy outcomes showed no significant differences between SCH patients with and without autoantibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of SCH may be associated with autoantibodies. The pregnancy outcomes were comparable between women with and without SCH.KEY MESSAGESSubchorionic haematoma (SCH) is increasingly commonly observed in early pregnancy period, but the aetiology is uncertain and the clinical significance of SCH is controversial.The occurrence of SCH may be associated with autoantibodies.The pregnancy outcomes were not significantly different between women with and without SCH.

Molecular Changes on Maternal-Fetal Interface in Placental Abruption-A Systematic Review

Placental abruption is the separation of the placenta from the lining of the uterus before childbirth. It is an infrequent perinatal complication with serious after-effects and a marked risk of maternal and fetal mortality. Despite the fact that numerous placental abruption risk factors are known, the pathophysiology of this issue is multifactorial and not entirely clear. The aim of this review was to examine the current state of knowledge concerning the molecular changes on the maternal–fetal interface occurring in placental abruption. Only original research articles describing studies published in English until the 15 March 2021 were considered eligible. Reviews, book chapters, case studies, conference papers and opinions were excluded. The systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus databases identified 708 articles, 22 of which were analyzed. The available evidence indicates that the disruption of the immunological processes on the maternal–fetal interface plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of placental abruption. The features of chronic non-infectious inflammation and augmented immunological cytotoxic response were found to be present in placental abruption samples in the reviewed studies. Various molecules participate in this process, with only a few being examined. More advanced research is needed to fully explain this complicated process.

Comparison of subchorionic hematoma in medicated or natural single euploid frozen embryo transfer cycles

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of frozen embryo transfer (FET) preparation protocol on incidence of subchorionic hematoma (SCH) and serum hormone levels.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

University-affiliated fertility center.

PATIENT(S)

Patients who underwent FET at the New York University Langone Fertility Center.

INTERVENTION(S)

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The primary outcome was incidence of SCH by protocol in FET cycles.

RESULT(S)

There were 1,273 FET cycles that met criteria for inclusion. The frequency of SCH was lower in natural compared with programmed cycles (P<.05; relative risk = 0.4 [0.27-0.78]; odds ratio = 0.4 [0.23-0.75]). Serum estrogen level was higher in programmed compared with natural cycles on day of progesterone initiation (P<.001) and cycle day 28 (P<.001). However, serum estrogen levels at the same time points were not associated with formation of SCH in programmed or natural cycles.

CONCLUSION(S)

This is the first study to evaluate the formation of SCHs by FET protocol type. Our results highlight that high serum estradiol levels do not independently lead to an increase in rate of SCH. Further research must be done to understand other clinical, or perhaps molecular, differences between natural and programmed FET cycle preparations that can be better associated with SCH formation.

Mechanisms of thrombin-Induced myometrial contractions: Potential targets of progesterone

Intrauterine bleeding during pregnancy is a major risk factor for preterm birth. Thrombin, the most abundant coagulation factor in blood, is associated with uterine myometrial contraction. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism and signaling of thrombin-induced myometrial contraction. First, histologic studies of placental abruption, as a representative intrauterine bleeding, revealed that thrombin was expressed within the infiltrating hemorrhage and that thrombin receptor (protease-activated receptor 1, PAR1) was highly expressed in myometrial cells surrounding the hemorrhage. Treatment of human myometrial cells with thrombin resulted in augmented contraction via PAR1. Thrombin-induced signaling to myosin was then mediated by activation of myosin light chain kinase- and Rho-induced phosphorylation of myosin light chain-2. In addition, thrombin increased prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase-2 (PTGS2 or COX2) mRNA and prostaglandin E2 and F2α synthesis in human myometrial cells. Thrombin significantly increased the mRNA level of interleukine-1β, whereas it decreased the expressions of prostaglandin EP3 and F2α receptors. Progesterone partially blocked thrombin-induced myometrial contractions, which was accompanied by suppression of the thrombin-induced increase of PTGS2 and IL1B mRNA expressions as well as suppression of PAR1 expression. Collectively, thrombin induces myometrial contractions by two mechanisms, including direct activation of myosin and indirect increases in prostaglandin synthesis. The results suggest a therapeutic potential of progesterone for preterm labor complicated by intrauterine bleeding.

Thrombin-Induced Decidual Colony-Stimulating Factor-2 Promotes Abruption-Related Preterm Birth by Weakening Fetal Membranes

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and thrombin generation by decidual cell-expressed tissue factor often accompany abruptions. Underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that thrombin-induced colony-stimulating factor-2 (CSF-2) in decidual cells triggers paracrine signaling via its receptor (CSF2R) in trophoblasts, promoting fetal membrane weakening and abruption-associated PPROM. Decidua basalis sections from term (n = 10), idiopathic preterm birth (PTB; n = 8), and abruption-complicated pregnancies (n = 8) were immunostained for CSF-2. Real-time quantitative PCR measured CSF2 and CSF2R mRNA levels. Term decidual cell (TDC) monolayers were treated with 10^-8 mol/L estradiol ± 10^-7 mol/L medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) ± 1 IU/mL thrombin pretreatment for 4 hours, washed, and then incubated in control medium with estradiol ± MPA. TDC-derived conditioned media supernatant effects on fetal membrane weakening were analyzed. Immunostaining localized CSF-2 primarily to decidual cell cytoplasm and cytotrophoblast cell membranes. CSF-2 immunoreactivity was higher in abruption-complicated or idiopathic PTB specimens versus normal term specimens (P < 0.001). CSF2 mRNA was higher in TDCs versus cytotrophoblasts (P < 0.05), whereas CSF2R mRNA was 1.3 × 10⁴-fold higher in cytotrophoblasts versus TDCs (P < 0.001). Thrombin enhanced CSF-2 secretion in TDC cultures fourfold (P < 0.05); MPA reduced this effect. Thrombin-pretreated TDC-derived conditioned media supernatant weakened fetal membranes (P < 0.05), which MPA inhibited. TDC-derived CSF-2, acting via trophoblast-expressed CSFR2, contributes to thrombin-induced fetal membrane weakening, eliciting abruption-related PPROM and PTB.

First-trimester intrauterine hematoma and pregnancy complications

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether sonographic diagnosis of intrauterine hematoma (IUH) in the first trimester of pregnancy is associated with first-trimester miscarriage and antenatal, delivery and neonatal complications.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational cohort study of women with an intrauterine singleton pregnancy between 5 and 14 weeks' gestation recruited at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, London, UK, between March 2014 and March 2016. Participants underwent serial ultrasound examinations in the first trimester, and the presence, location, size and persistence of any IUH was evaluated. First-trimester miscarriage was defined as pregnancy loss before 14 weeks' gestation. Clinical symptoms, including pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, were recorded at each visit using validated symptom scores. Antenatal, delivery and neonatal outcomes were obtained from hospital records. Logistic regression analysis and the chi-square test were used to assess the association between the presence and features of IUH and the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcome. Odds ratios (OR) were first adjusted for maternal age (aOR) and then further adjusted for the presence of vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain in the first trimester.

RESULTS

Of 1003 women recruited to the study, 946 were included in the final analysis and of these, 268 (28.3%) were diagnosed with an IUH in the first trimester. The presence of IUH was associated with the incidence of preterm birth (aOR, 1.94 (95% CI, 1.07-3.52)), but no other individual or overall antenatal, delivery or neonatal complications. No association was found between the presence of IUH in the first trimester and first-trimester miscarriage (aOR, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.44-1.50)). These findings were independent of the absolute size of the hematoma and the presence of vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain in the first trimester. When IUH was present in the first trimester, there was no association between its size, content or position in relation to the gestational sac and overall antenatal, delivery and neonatal complications. Diagnosis of a retroplacental IUH was associated with an increased risk of overall antenatal complications (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that there is no association between the presence of IUH in the first trimester and first-trimester miscarriage. However, an association with preterm birth, independently of the presence of symptoms of pelvic pain and/or vaginal bleeding, is evident. Women diagnosed with IUH in the first trimester should be counseled about their increased risk of preterm birth and possibly be offered increased surveillance during the course of their pregnancy. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Factors associated with subchorionic hematoma formation in pregnancies achieved via assisted reproductive technologies

Purpose

To determine if certain clinical and/or embryologic factors are independently associated with the increased prevalence of subchorionic hematoma (SCH) among pregnancies achieved via in vitro fertilization (IVF) with fresh embryo transfer (ET).

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

In this retrospective study, data were abstracted from 210 autologous oocyte IVF clinical pregnancies that resulted from fresh ET at a single fertility center from January 2012 through December 2016. Clinical and embryology laboratory variables were analyzed as possible factors associated with the presence or absence of SCH in IVF pregnancies via bivariate associations and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Independent variables included prior uterine surgery versus no uterine surgery, peak estradiol, and progesterone levels, day 3 (n = 92) versus day 5 (n = 118) ET, and assisted hatching versus no assisted hatching. Among the day 5 ET subgroup of 118 patients, 117 had data for the variables inner cell mass (ICM) grading and trophectoderm (TE) because one day 5 ET was at the morula stage.

Results

We found a significant bivariate association between TE grading and SCH, where cases with TE grade “A” were significantly less likely to have SCH compared with cases with grades “B” or “C.” This significant difference remained when adjusting for the other factors considered in a multivariable logistic regression model for the probability of SCH.

Conclusions

The data analyzed here suggest that a less-advanced trophectoderm grade may be a potential factor that is associated with the presence of SCH in pregnancies achieved via IVF.

Preterm Birth: A Narrative Review of the Current Evidence on Nutritional and Bioactive Solutions for Risk Reduction

Preterm birth (PTB) (<37 weeks of gestation) is the leading cause of newborn death and a risk factor for short and long-term adverse health outcomes. Most cases are of unknown cause. Although the mechanisms triggering PTB remain unclear, an inappropriate increase in net inflammatory load seems to be key. To date, interventions that reduce the risk of PTB are effective only in specific groups of women, probably due to the heterogeneity of its etiopathogenesis. Use of progesterone is the most effective, but only in singleton pregnancies with history of PTB. Thus, primary prevention is greatly needed and nutritional and bioactive solutions are a promising alternative. Among these, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the most promising to reduce the risk for early PTB. Other potential nutrient interventions include the administration of zinc (possibly limited to populations with low nutritional status or poor zinc status) and vitamin D; additional preliminary evidence exists for vitamin A, calcium, iron, folic acid, combined iron-folate, magnesium, multiple micronutrients, and probiotics. Considering the public health relevance of PTB, promising interventions should be studied in large and well-designed clinical trials. The objective of this review is to describe, summarize, and discuss the existing evidence on nutritional and bioactive solutions for reducing the risk of PTB.

Ultrasound Image Segmentation: A Deeply Supervised Network With Attention to Boundaries

OBJECTIVE

Segmentation of anatomical structures in ultrasound images requires vast radiological knowledge and experience. Moreover, the manual segmentation often results in subjective variations, therefore, an automatic segmentation is desirable. We aim to develop a fully convolutional neural network (FCNN) with attentional deep supervision for the automatic and accurate segmentation of the ultrasound images.

METHOD

FCNN/CNNs are used to infer high-level context using low-level image features. In this paper, a sub-problem specific deep supervision of the FCNN is performed. The attention of fine resolution layers is steered to learn object boundary definitions using auxiliary losses, whereas coarse resolution layers are trained to discriminate object regions from the background. Furthermore, a customized scheme for downweighting the auxiliary losses and a trainable fusion layer are introduced. This produces an accurate segmentation and helps in dealing with the broken boundaries, usually found in the ultrasound images.

RESULTS

The proposed network is first tested for blood vessel segmentation in liver images. It results in F1 score, mean intersection over union, and dice index of 0.83, 0.83, and 0.79, respectively. The best values observed among the existing approaches are produced by U-net as 0.74, 0.81, and 0.75, respectively. The proposed network also results in dice index value of 0.91 in the lumen segmentation experiments on MICCAI 2011 IVUS challenge dataset, which is near to the provided reference value of 0.93. Furthermore, the improvements similar to vessel segmentation experiments are also observed in the experiment performed to segment lesions.

CONCLUSION

Deep supervision of the network based on the input-output characteristics of the layers results in improvement in overall segmentation accuracy.

SIGNIFICANCE

Sub-problem specific deep supervision for ultrasound image segmentation is the main contribution of this paper. Currently the network is trained and tested for fixed size inputs. It requires image resizing and limits the performance in small size images.

Placental abruption and hemorrhage-review of imaging appearance

Placental and periplacental bleeding are common etiologies for antepartum bleeding. Placental abruption complicates approximately 1% of pregnancies and is associated with increased maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the normal placental appearance on ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and then discusses the different morphological appearance of placental and periplacental hematomas along with their mimics. Hematomas are classified based on the location as retroplacental, marginal subchorionic, preplacental (subamniotic), or intraplacental. Placenta-related bleeding is a common finding during first trimester ultrasound and its detection can help triage the pregnant females into low- and high-risk groups. This article reviews placenta related bleeding in the setting of trauma. Trauma can complicate pregnancy with potential severe maternal and fetal outcomes. CT is usually performed as part of the trauma workup and it can be challenging for placental evaluation. MRI can characterize the age of the hematomas and can differentiate hematomas from tumors.

17OHP-C in patients with spontaneous preterm labor and intact membranes: is there an effect according to the presence of intra-amniotic inflammation?

PROBLEM

It is not known whether 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17OHP-C) is effective for preventing preterm delivery with an episode of preterm labor (PTL) with or without intra-amniotic inflammation/infection.

METHODS OF STUDY

This was a retrospective cohort study. One hundred and seven PTL patients were selected and divided into a 17OHP-C group (use of 17OHP-C: n = 53) and a no-treatment group (no use of 17OHP-C: n = 54). Moreover, the patients were divided into three subgroups (subgroup A: without intra-amniotic inflammation, B: with mild intra-amniotic inflammation, and C: with severe intra-amniotic inflammation) according to their level of amniotic interleukin (IL)-8, and perinatal prognosis was analyzed.

RESULTS

Interval from admission to delivery (days) in the 17OHP-C group (76 [13-126], n = 34) was significantly longer than that in the no-treatment group (50 [8-104], n = 33; P = .012) in subgroup B. In cases without intra-amniotic microbes in subgroup B, a significant prolongation of gestational days was associated with the 17OHP-C group (79 [13-126], n = 25) compared with the no-treatment group (50 [8-104], n = 29; P = .029). However, there were no significant differences in subgroups A or C.

CONCLUSION

17OHP-C could prolong gestational period in limited PTL cases with sterile mild intra-amniotic inflammation.

The Impact of Incidental Ultrasound Finding of Subchorionic and Retroplacental Hematoma in Early Pregnancy

Background

Chorionic hematomas can be caused by the separation of the chorion from the endometrium, with an incidence of 3.1% of all pregnancies. It is the most common sonographic abnormality and the most common cause of first-trimester bleeding.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of subchorionic and retroplacental hematomas detected by ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Patients and Methods

A prospective observational case-control study was conducted at Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital on 100 pregnant ladies with subchorionic or retroplacental hematoma shown in ultrasound compared with 200 pregnant ladies without hematoma in the first trimester. The demographic feature, course of pregnancy, obstetric outcome, and neonatal outcome were analyzed.

Results

There was statistically significant difference between both groups regarding maternal and neonatal outcome. In regard to maternal outcome, there is increasing rate of miscarriage (20%, P = 0.004), preterm labor (18%, P = 0.005), intrauterine growth restriction (7%, P < 0.001), abruption (9%, P = 0.001), and cesarean section (60%, P < 0.001) compared to control group. Regarding neonatal outcome, there is increasing rate of low gestational age at birth (P = 0.004), low birth weight (P = 0.003), low Apgar score at 1 & 5 min (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively), and more admission to NICU (P = 0.015) in study group when compared to control group.

Conclusion

The presence and the characteristic of an intrauterine hematoma during the first trimester may identify a population of patients at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcome as miscarriage, preterm delivery, IUGR, abruption, low birth weight, cesarean section rate, low Apgar score at 1 and 5 min, and NICU admissions in patients with intrauterine hematoma.The miscarriage rate with retroplacental hematoma is significantly higher than with subchorionic hematoma. The size of the hematoma is significantly greater in the miscarriage group.All subchorionic hematomas disappeared, but 2% of retroplacental hematomas did not disappear until the end of second trimester.

Subchorionic hematomas are increased in early pregnancy in women taking low-dose aspirin

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of subchorionic hematomas (SCH) in first-trimester ultrasound examinations of patients with infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and in patients from a general obstetric population. To determine if the method of assisted reproduction utilized or the use of anticoagulants, such as heparin and aspirin (ASA), influenced frequency of SCH.

DESIGN

Prospective, cohort study.

SETTING

Fertility clinic and general obstetrics clinic.

PATIENT(S)

Five hundred and thirty-three women who were pregnant in the first-trimester.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Frequencies of subchorionic hematomas in women based on diagnosis, use of anticoagulants, and fertility treatment.

RESULT(S)

SCH were identified in 129/321 (40.2%) in the study group compared to 23/212 (10.9%) in the control group. Fertility diagnosis and the use of heparin did not appear to affect the frequency of SCH in the first trimester; however, SCH occurred at an almost four-fold increase in patients taking ASA compared to those not taking ASA, regardless of fertility diagnosis or method of fertility treatment.

CONCLUSION(S)

The use of ASA may be associated with an increased risk of developing a SCH during the first trimester. The increased frequencies of SCH in pregnancies of patients attending a fertility clinic compared to women from a general obstetrical practice was highly correlated with the use of ASA.

The relationship between first-trimester subchorionic hematoma, cervical length, and preterm birth

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between a sonographically diagnosed subchorionic hematoma (SCH) in the first trimester and subsequent midtrimester cervical length and preterm birth.

STUDY DESIGN

In this cohort study, 512 women with an SCH on their first-trimester ultrasound were compared with 1024 women without a first-trimester SCH. All women underwent routine transvaginal cervical length measurement between 18 and 22 weeks. Women with multifetal gestation, cerclage, or a uterine anomaly were excluded. A multivariable linear regression was performed to assess the independent association of SCH with cervical length, and a logistic regression was done to determine whether the presence of SCH was associated with preterm birth independent of the cervical length.

RESULTS

In a univariable analysis, the presence of a SCH was significantly associated with a shorter mean cervical length as well as a cervical length less than the 10th percentile (4.27 cm vs 4.36 cm, P = .038; 1.9% vs 0.5%, P = .006, respectively). Preterm birth also was more common in women with an SCH (12.5% vs 7.3%, P = .001). Even after adjusting for potentially confounding factors, a significant negative association existed between the presence of an SCH and cervical length (centimeters) (linear regression coefficient, -0.08; 95% confidence interval, -0.17 to -0.005). In a multivariable regression, SCH remained associated with preterm birth, even with cervical length entered into the equation as a covariate (adjusted odds ratio, 1.58; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-2.32).

CONCLUSION

First-trimester SCH is associated with both a shorter cervical length and preterm birth. Our data suggest, however, that mechanisms other than cervical shortening may be involved in preterm birth among women with SCH.

The effects of subchorionic hematoma on pregnancy outcome in patients with threatened abortion

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of ultrasonographically detected subchorionic hematomas on pregnancy outcomes in patients with vaginal bleeding within the first half of pregnancy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients diagnosed with threatened abortion due to painless vaginal bleeding and who were followed up in an in-patient service during the first vaginal bleeding between January 2009 and December 2010 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of subchorionic hematoma. Miscarriage rates and pregnancy outcomes of ongoing pregnancies were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding demographic parameters, including age, parity, previous miscarriage history, and gestational age at first vaginal bleeding. While 13 of 44 pregnancies (29.5%) with subchorionic hematoma resulted in miscarriage, 25 of 198 pregnancies (12.6%) without subchorionic hematoma resulted in miscarriage (p=.010). The gestational age at miscarriage and the duration between first vaginal bleeding and miscarriage were similar between the groups. The outcome measures of ongoing pregnancies, such as gestational week at delivery, birth weight, and delivery route, were also similar between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasonographically detected subchorionic hematoma increases the risk of miscarriage in patients with vaginal bleeding and threatened abortion during the first 20 weeks of gestation. However, it does not affect the pregnancy outcome measures of ongoing pregnancies.

Symptoms of an intrauterine hematoma associated with pregnancy complications: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the predictive value of the symptoms of an intrauterine hematoma (IUH) for adverse pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS

A literature review was performed with the search terms, including intrauterine/subchorionic/retroplacental/subplacental hematoma/hemorrhage/bleeding/collection/fluid, covering the period from January, 1981 to January, 2014. We just focused on the pregnancy outcomes associated with different symptoms of an IUH.

RESULTS

It is generally agreed that a retroplacental, posterior or subchorionic in the fundus of uterus, and/or persistent IUH is associated with adverse outcomes in the ongoing pregnancy. However, the prognosis value of both volume and gestational age at diagnosis of IUH still remains controversial. Some researchers argue that a large IUH is associated with an increased risk of adverse events during pregnancy while others refuted. It is believed by some that the earlier an IUH was detected, the higher the risk for adverse outcomes would be, while no or weak association were reported by other studies. The prognostic value of the simultaneous presence of vaginal bleeding on pregnancy outcome is also controversial.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the position relative to the placenta or uterus and duration of IUH have strong predictive value on the prognosis in the ongoing pregnancy. However, the prognostic values of the IUH volume, gestational age at diagnosis and the simultaneous presence of vaginal bleeding remain controversial up to now. Moreover, most of previous reports are small, uncontrolled studies with incomplete information. Prospective, large sample, cohorts studies which take all detailed symptoms of an IUH into consideration are needed when we evaluate its clinical significance in the prognosis of pregnancy.

Subchorionic hematoma occurs more frequently in in vitro fertilization pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

Obstetric complications occur more frequently in pregnancies after in vitro fertilization (IVF). We attempted to determine the correlation between subchorionic hematoma and IVF pregnancies.

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed 194 pregnancies achieved by infertility treatment between January 2008 and February 2012 at our hospital. Among these, 67 were achieved by IVF and 127 by non-IVF approaches. We compared the frequency of subchorionic hematoma between the groups and examined the risk factors for subchorionic hematoma in the IVF group.

RESULTS

No significant differences regarding age and the number of uterine surgery were observed between the groups. The duration of infertility was longer, parity and the rate of luteal support were higher in the IVF group compared with that in the non-IVF group. The frequency of subchorionic hematoma was significantly higher in the IVF group (22.4%) than that in the non-IVF group (11%) (P=0.035). Univariate analysis in the IVF group demonstrated that frozen-thawed embryo transfer (OR, 6.18; 95% CI, 1.7-22.4), parity≥1 (OR, 3.67; 95% CI, 1.0-13.2) and blastocyst transfer (OR, 3.75; 95% CI, 1.1-13.3) were risk factors for the subchorionic hematoma.

CONCLUSION

The frequency of subchorionic hematoma is high in IVF pregnancies, and frozen-thawed embryo transfer, parity≥1, and blastocyst transfer may contribute to subchorionic hematoma onset.

Perinatal outcomes in women with subchorionic hematoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the association between subchorionic hematoma and adverse perinatal outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

We searched English language publications from January 1981 to August 2010 for cohort and case-control studies evaluating subchorionic hematoma and perinatal outcomes. The primary outcome was pregnancy loss (spontaneous abortion and stillbirth). Secondary outcomes were abruption, preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm delivery, pre-eclampsia, and small for gestational age. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated from random effects models. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, RESULTS: Seven studies including 1,735 women with subchorionic hematoma and 70,703 controls met inclusion criteria. Subchorionic hematoma was associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion (from 8.9% to 17.6%; pooled OR 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-3.68) and stillbirth (from 0.9% to 1.9%, pooled OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.20-3.67). The number needed to harm was 11 for spontaneous abortion and 103 for stillbirth, meaning one extra spontaneous abortion is estimated to occur for every 11 women with subchorionic hematoma diagnosed and one extra stillbirth occurs for every 103 women with subchorionic hematoma diagnosed. Women with subchorionic hematoma were also at increased risk of abruption (from 0.7% to 3.6%, pooled OR 5.71, 95% CI 3.91-8.33), preterm delivery (from 10.1% to 13.6%, pooled OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.18-1.68), and preterm premature rupture of membranes (from 2.3% to 3.8%, pooled OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.22-2.21), but not small for gestational age (OR 1.69, 95% CI 0.89-3.19) or pre-eclampsia (OR 1.47, 95% CI 0.37-5.89). The numbers needed to harm were 34, 28, and 69 for abruption, preterm delivery, and preterm premature rupture of membranes, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Subchorionic hematoma is associated with an increased risk of early and late pregnancy loss, abruption, and preterm premature rupture of membranes.