ANTE--PARTUM. Lecture 3. Antepartum YESSSSSS Antepartum Flashcards
HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY
A pregnancy in which the life or health of the mother or fetus is compromised.
It can be coincidental or unique to pregnancy
Risk Factors during pregnancy
Biophysical
Psychosocial
Socio-demographic
Environmental
Antepartum Testing. When ?
To detect potential fetal compromise
32-34 weeks until delivery
Used primarily for women at risk for disrupted fetal oxygenation
BIOPHYSICAL ASSESSMENTS
Daily Fetal Movement Count (Kick Count):
The daily fetal movement count, often referred to as kick count, is a simple and non-invasive method for pregnant individuals to monitor their baby’s activity level in the womb. It involves keeping track of the number of times a baby moves or kicks within a specific time period, typically over the course of a day. This assessment is important because reduced fetal movements can sometimes indicate potential problems, such as fetal distress or decreased oxygen supply. Healthcare providers may recommend different guidelines for the number of movements that should be felt within a certain time frame, and any significant deviation from these guidelines might warrant further evaluation.
Ultrasound:
Ultrasound is a common prenatal diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create images of the developing fetus and the mother’s reproductive organs. It provides valuable information about the baby’s growth, position, anatomy, and overall health. Ultrasounds can be performed at different stages of pregnancy, including the first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester. They are used to confirm pregnancy, estimate gestational age, identify multiple pregnancies, monitor fetal growth, check for abnormalities, and assess various other aspects of fetal development. Ultrasound technology has advanced significantly over the years, allowing for detailed and real-time visualization of the fetus.
Biophysical Profile (BPP):
The biophysical profile is a comprehensive assessment used to evaluate the well-being of a fetus during the third trimester of pregnancy. It combines multiple components to provide a more holistic picture of fetal health. The components typically include:
Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring: This involves assessing the baby’s heart rate using a Doppler device or electronic fetal monitor.
Fetal Breathing Movements: Observation of rhythmic breathing movements by the fetus.
Fetal Movement (Body Movements): Similar to the daily kick count, this component evaluates the fetus’s gross body movements.
Amniotic Fluid Volume: Ultrasound is used to measure the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. Adequate amniotic fluid levels are important for fetal protection and development.
Fetal Muscle Tone: This component assesses the presence and quality of fetal muscle tone.
Each component is assigned a score, and the cumulative score is used to assess the overall well-being of the fetus. A low score might indicate a need for further evaluation or intervention.
Get to know your baby’s movements and report any change to your MD, CNM or Healthcare Provider
Fetal Movement Counts: Pay attention to your baby’s movement patterns. As your pregnancy progresses, you’ll likely notice a regular pattern of when your baby is most active. Counting the number of movements within a specific time frame, often referred to as a “kick count,” can help you monitor your baby’s activity.
Changes in Movement: If you notice a sudden change in your baby’s movement pattern, such as a significant decrease in movement or a lack of movement for an extended period, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. Changes in movement could indicate potential issues that need to be evaluated.
Communication with Healthcare Provider: Always communicate any changes in your baby’s movements to your healthcare provider, whether it’s a decrease in movement, an increase in movement, or any other changes that concern you. Your healthcare provider will be able to guide you on whether further assessment is needed.
Monitoring Tools: Some healthcare providers might recommend using specific tools, such as a kick count chart or mobile apps, to help you track your baby’s movements. These tools can provide a structured way to monitor your baby’s activity.
Importance of Monitoring: Monitoring fetal movements is especially important during the third trimester when your baby’s movements become more pronounced. However, it’s generally a good practice to pay attention to movements throughout your pregnancy.
- Ultrasound: can be abdominal (Later stages)or transvaginal (inside vagina, used in early staged coz it’s more precise accurate since it’s closer to the reproductive organs )
Abdominal Ultrasound:
Procedure: In abdominal ultrasound, a handheld device called a transducer is moved over the skin of the abdomen. A gel is applied to the skin to help transmit the sound waves and improve image quality.
Application: Abdominal ultrasounds are commonly used to examine the organs and structures within the abdominal cavity, such as the liver, gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, and aorta. It’s also frequently used for pregnancy imaging, especially in the later stages.
Advantages: Non-invasive, does not require any insertion into the body. Can provide a broad overview of abdominal structures.
Transvaginal Ultrasound:
Procedure: In transvaginal ultrasound, a specially designed transducer is inserted into the vagina. This allows for closer proximity to the pelvic organs and structures.
Application: Transvaginal ultrasounds are primarily used to examine the reproductive organs, such as the uterus and ovaries. They are especially useful for early pregnancy imaging, assessing gynecological conditions, and evaluating pelvic pain or abnormal bleeding.
Advantages: Offers higher-resolution images of the pelvic organs due to the closer proximity of the transducer. Provides clearer images, especially in early pregnancy.
Transvaginal ultrasound
- Transvaginal used mainly in in the first trimester - provides greater detail and can dx IUP and establish GA earlier
- Levels of ultrasonography:
**Standard – GA, AFI’s etc.
**Limited – e.g., check for vertex presentation, FHR
**Specialized- suspected anatomical or physiological abnormal fetus
You’re absolutely right, transvaginal ultrasound is often used in the first trimester of pregnancy and provides higher resolution images that can aid in diagnosing various conditions, including confirming an intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) and establishing gestational age (GA) more accurately. The ability to get closer to the reproductive organs through the vaginal approach allows for more precise measurements and imaging during this early stage of pregnancy.
Regarding the levels of ultrasonography you mentioned, you’ve provided an accurate breakdown of the different types:
Standard Ultrasonography:
This is a comprehensive ultrasound examination that includes assessing various aspects of pregnancy. It can involve measurements of gestational age, amniotic fluid levels (AFL), and the general well-being of the fetus. Standard ultrasonography is often used to monitor the overall progress of the pregnancy and the health of the developing fetus.
Limited Ultrasonography:
Limited ultrasound exams focus on specific aspects of the pregnancy. They are often done for targeted purposes, such as checking for fetal heart rate (FHR) or confirming the fetal presentation (e.g., vertex presentation) to ensure proper positioning for childbirth. These exams are more streamlined and address specific concerns.
Specialized Ultrasonography:
Specialized ultrasounds are used when there are suspected anatomical or physiological abnormalities in the fetus. These exams are more detailed and thorough, aiming to provide in-depth information about specific areas of concern. They are often performed by experts in fetal medicine or specialized ultrasound technicians.
Indications For Use. Ultrasound
- Fetal Heart Activity
- Gestational Age
- Fetal Growth
- Fetal Anatomy
- Fetal Genetic
- Fetal Position
- Disorders and Physical Anomalies
- Placental Position and Function
- Adjunct to other tests
- Fetal Well Being
Ultrasound to Determine Gestational Age
Fetal Growth. Todas estan hechas con ultrasonido
Recommended Method of Dating:
Ultrasound is one of the most accurate methods for determining gestational age during pregnancy. It provides visual information about the fetus’s development, which helps healthcare providers estimate how far along a pregnancy is.
Most Accurate Between 14-22 Weeks:
While ultrasound can be performed at various stages of pregnancy, the most accurate determination of gestational age typically occurs between 14 and 22 weeks. During this period, various fetal structures and measurements can be observed with high precision.
Gestational Sac Dimensions (8 Weeks):
During early pregnancy, around 8 weeks gestation, the dimensions of the gestational sac can provide information about the development of the embryo.
Crown/Rump Length (7-12 Weeks):
The crown-rump length (CRL) measurement is taken from the top of the baby’s head (crown) to the bottom of its buttocks (rump). It’s a reliable indicator of gestational age and is most accurate between 7 and 12 weeks.
BPD (Biparietal Diameter) and Femur Length (12 Weeks):
The biparietal diameter (BPD) is the measurement between the two sides of the baby’s head. It’s commonly used to estimate gestational age and assess growth. Femur length, the measurement of the thigh bone, is another indicator of fetal size.
Serial Evaluations for Fetal Growth:
Serial evaluations involve tracking the growth of specific fetal measurements over time. This includes monitoring changes in the biparietal diameter, limb length, and abdominal circumference. These measurements are essential to assess how well the fetus is growing and to detect any potential growth abnormalities.
Abdominal Circumference:
Abdominal circumference is an important measurement that reflects the size of the fetal abdomen. It’s used to assess fetal growth and well-being, as abnormalities in abdominal circumference can indicate issues such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
By combining various measurements taken during ultrasound examinations, healthcare providers can create a comprehensive picture of the fetus’s development, gestational age, and growth trajectory.
Biparietal Diameter (BPD) to determine
Gestational age
After 12 weeks (BPD has 3 letters and 12 weeks = 3 months )
Biparietal etymology
The term “biparietal” is derived from two Latin words: “bi” meaning “two” and “parietal” referring to the parietal bones of the skull. The parietal bones are two of the major cranial bones that form the upper sides and roof of the skull.
In medical and anatomical terminology, “biparietal” is often used in reference to the biparietal diameter (BPD), which is a measurement taken during prenatal ultrasound to assess the size of the fetal head. The biparietal diameter is the distance between the two parietal bones on either side of the fetal skull. It’s an important measurement used to estimate gestational age and monitor fetal growth during pregnancy.
Fetal Well-Being
Doppler Blood Flow Analysis:
Doppler ultrasound is a technique that measures blood flow within the blood vessels. In obstetrics, it is often used to assess blood flow in the umbilical cord and other fetal vessels. Abnormal blood flow patterns can indicate potential issues such as placental insufficiency or fetal distress.
Amniotic Fluid Volume (AFV) Assessment:
The level of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus is an important indicator of fetal well-being. Too much or too little amniotic fluid can be a sign of problems. An ultrasound can be used to measure the amniotic fluid volume, helping to assess fetal health.
Non-Stress Test (NST):
The non-stress test is a simple and non-invasive test used to evaluate the fetal heart rate in response to the baby’s movements. During the test, the fetal heart rate is monitored using a fetal heart rate monitor. An acceleration in the heart rate when the baby moves is a positive sign, indicating the well-being of the fetus. Because it’s responding to the movement and the heart is beating faster to adjust to the higher demand of oxygen requested by the tissues.
Biophysical Profile (BPP):
The biophysical profile is a comprehensive assessment that combines multiple factors to evaluate fetal well-being. These factors typically include fetal heart rate monitoring (NST), fetal breathing movements, fetal movement, amniotic fluid volume assessment, and fetal muscle tone. Each factor is assigned a score, and the cumulative score helps determine the overall health of the fetus.
Modified Biophysical Profile:
The modified biophysical profile is a variation of the standard BPP that focuses on fewer parameters. It often includes the NST and the assessment of amniotic fluid volume. This streamlined version is sometimes used when a full BPP is not necessary or feasible.
Biophysical Profile (BPP)
There are 5
-Fetal Breathing Movements (2)
-Gross Body Movements (2) can baby move
-Fetal Tone (2) can baby clinch fist
-Reactive Heart Rate (NST) (2)
-Qualitative amniotic fluid volume (AFI) (2)
Breakdown of the components of a Biophysical Profile (BPP)
Here’s the standard scoring breakdown for a
BPP:
Normal: 2 points
Abnormal: 0 points
Biophysical Profile (BPP):
The BPP evaluates the fetal well-being by assessing five different components:
Fetal Breathing Movements:
Normal (Score = 2): 1 or more episodes of fetal breathing movements lasting >20 seconds within 30 minutes. Meaning the baby took at least 20 sec or more in the last 30 min (this = 2, meaning aprovado)
Abnormal (Score = 0): Absent or no episode of fetal breathing movements lasting >20 seconds within 30 minutes.
Gross Body Movements:
Normal (Score = 2): 2 or more discrete body/limb movements within 30 minutes (episodes of continuous movement are considered as a single movement).
Abnormal (Score = 0): Less than 2 episodes of body/limb movements within 30 minutes.
Fetal Tone:
Normal (Score = 2): 1 or more episodes of active extension with return to flexion of fetal limb(s) or trunk (normal tone). Opening and closing of the hand are considered normal tone.
Abnormal (Score = 0): Slow extension with return to partial flexion, movement of a limb in full extension, absent fetal movement, or partially open fetal hand.
Reactive Fetal Heart Rate (FHR):
Normal (Score = 2): 2 or more episodes of acceleration of ≥15 beats per minute (bpm) and of >15 seconds associated with fetal movement within 20 minutes.
Abnormal (Score = 0): 1 or more episodes of acceleration of fetal heart rate of <15 bpm within 20 minutes.
Qualitative Amniotic Fluid Volume (AFV):
Normal (Score = 2): 1 or more pockets of amniotic fluid measuring ≥2 cm in the vertical axis.
Abnormal (Score = 0): Either no pockets of amniotic fluid or the largest pocket measuring <2 cm in the vertical axis.
INTERPRETATION of BPP
8-10 = Normal, Low Risk
4-6 = Suspected Chronic Asphyxia
2 = Strong Suspicion of Asphyxia
8-10: Normal, Low Risk: A BPP score of 8 to 10 points is considered normal and indicates that the baby’s well-being is generally healthy. This range suggests that the components assessed in the BPP, such as fetal movements, breathing, tone, heart rate, and amniotic fluid, are within expected parameters.
4-6: Suspected Chronic Asphyxia: A BPP score of 4 to 6 points indicates a potential concern about the baby’s well-being, specifically related to chronic asphyxia. Asphyxia refers to inadequate oxygen supply to the fetus. A score in this range suggests that some components of the BPP may be abnormal, which could indicate that the baby is experiencing challenges related to oxygenation.
2: Strong Suspicion of Asphyxia: A BPP score of 2 points is indicative of a strong suspicion of asphyxia, suggesting that there are significant concerns about the baby’s well-being and oxygen supply. A score of 2 points implies that several components of the BPP are likely showing abnormalities, indicating potential issues with the baby’s health and oxygenation.
- Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI)
- Amniotic Fluid Volume (AVI)
Measures the vertical depths of the largest pocket of amniotic fluid in all four quadrants surrounding the maternal umbilicus and totaled
Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI):
The Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) is a measurement used to assess the amount of amniotic fluid present in the uterus during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is a liquid that surrounds and protects the developing fetus. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable environment for fetal growth and development. The AFI is typically measured using ultrasound.
The AFI is calculated by dividing the uterus into four quadrants and measuring the deepest vertical pocket of amniotic fluid in each quadrant. The measurements from the four pockets are then added together to determine the AFI. This measurement helps healthcare providers assess the volume of amniotic fluid and detect any abnormalities.
Amniotic Fluid Volume (AFV):
“Amniotic Fluid Volume” is a general term that refers to the amount of fluid within the amniotic sac during pregnancy. The amniotic sac is the membrane that surrounds the fetus and contains the amniotic fluid. The term itself doesn’t represent a specific measurement or test like AFI does. Instead, it’s a broader description of the fluid surrounding the fetus.
In summary, the Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) is a specific measurement used to assess the quantity of amniotic fluid in the uterus during pregnancy, while “Amniotic Fluid Volume” (AFV) is a general term referring to the fluid surrounding the fetus within the amniotic sac. If you’re discussing amniotic fluid levels in a clinical context, you’re likely referring to AFI as the specific measurement used to assess fluid volume.
AFI or AVI measures four quadrants. 5-25 cm is normal.
The amniotic fluid index (AFI) is a measurement that quantifies the amount of amniotic fluid in the uterus. It’s typically measured in centimeters and is used to assess the adequacy of the amniotic fluid level. An AFI of 5-25 cm is generally considered normal. An AFI below 5 cm might indicate oligohydramnios, which is a lower-than-normal level of amniotic fluid, while an AFI above 25 cm could indicate polyhydramnios, which is an excessive amount of amniotic fluid.
Biochemical Assessment.
Procedures to obtain specimens:
Amniocentesis: This is a prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus. It’s typically performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The amniotic fluid contains cells and biochemical markers that can provide information about the fetus’s genetic makeup, health, and development. Amniocentesis is often used to screen for genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, as well as to detect neural tube defects and certain genetic disorders.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): CVS is another prenatal diagnostic procedure that involves sampling a tiny piece of tissue from the placenta, specifically the chorionic villi. This procedure is usually done between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. The chorionic villi have the same genetic information as the fetus and can provide insights into genetic conditions and chromosomal abnormalities.
Maternal Assays: These are blood tests performed on the pregnant mother to assess various markers that can indicate potential issues with the pregnancy. These tests often measure hormone levels, proteins, and other substances in the mother’s blood that might be indicative of certain conditions in the fetus, such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities. Examples of maternal assays include the multiple marker screen and non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).
Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS): Also known as cordocentesis, this procedure involves withdrawing a small sample of blood from the umbilical cord. It is typically used in cases where more direct and immediate information about the fetus’s health is needed. PUBS can provide information about blood disorders, infections, and other conditions affecting the fetus’s blood.
AMNIOCENTESIS
-Genetic and chromosomal abnormalities (15- 20 weks)
-Fetal Lung Maturity
-Rh isoimmunization status and severity of hemolytic anemia
-AFP (Alpha Feto Protein) levels which indicate anatomic abnormalities (Fetal Nutrition: AFP is produced by the fetal liver and plays a role in transporting nutrients from the mother’s bloodstream to the developing fetus. It helps ensure that the fetus receives the necessary nutrients for growth and development.)
2 Ways of Measuring the Infant’s Lung Maturity
Lecithin to Sphingomyelin (L/S) Ratio:
The Lecithin to Sphingomyelin (L/S) ratio is a test that assesses the relative levels of two specific types of phospholipids in the amniotic fluid. Phospholipids are important components of surfactant, a substance that lines the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs and helps reduce surface tension, preventing the alveoli from collapsing. The L/S ratio is calculated by dividing the concentration of lecithin (also known as phosphatidylcholine) by the concentration of sphingomyelin.
2 or More: An L/S ratio of 2 or more is generally indicative of fetal lung maturity and suggests a low risk of infant respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This means that there is an adequate amount of surfactant in the fetal lungs to support normal breathing after birth.
1.5 or Less: An L/S ratio of 1.5 or less is associated with a higher risk of RDS. A lower ratio indicates that there might be insufficient surfactant present, which could lead to respiratory difficulties for the newborn.
Phosphatidylglycerol (PG):
Phosphatidylglycerol is another component of surfactant, and its presence in the amniotic fluid is an indicator of fetal lung maturity.
Presence of PG: The presence of phosphatidylglycerol in the amniotic fluid is a positive sign of fetal lung maturity. It suggests that the fetal lungs are producing surfactant, which is crucial for proper lung function after birth.
ACOG recommendations as of August 2017
- from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as of August 2017 regarding the administration of antenatal corticosteroids (also known as betamethasone or BMZ) for fetal lung maturation in cases of anticipated preterm birth. These recommendations aim to reduce the risk of respiratory complications in premature infants.
Timing of Delivery and Fetal Lung Maturity:
ACOG’s recommendation states that if a patient is in a situation where delivery is indicated, it should be carried out regardless of fetal lung maturity status. In other words, if there is a medical reason for delivery, the need for delivering the baby takes precedence over assessing fetal lung maturity.
Administration of BMZ Before 34 Weeks:
If a patient is less than 34 weeks pregnant and is facing imminent delivery within the next 7 days, and if they haven’t received antenatal corticosteroids (BMZ) within the last 14 days, then ACOG recommends the administration of BMZ to promote fetal lung maturation.
Administration of BMZ Between 34 and 36.6 Weeks:
If a patient is between 34 and 36.6 weeks pregnant and is at risk of preterm birth within the next 7 days, and they either haven’t received BMZ before or their prior course was more than 14 days ago, then ACOG recommends considering the administration of BMZ.
Complications
Less than 1%. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
10-12 weeks sometimes 13
Complications of CVS for the Mother:
Infection: Any medical procedure carries a risk of infection, but the risk of infection after CVS is relatively low.
Hemorrhage: There’s a small chance of bleeding after the procedure due to the needle insertion. This is usually minimal and self-limited.
Damage to Bladder or Intestines: Although extremely rare, there’s a possibility of accidental damage to nearby organs during the procedure.
Miscarriage: The risk of miscarriage is a concern with any invasive prenatal procedure. However, modern techniques have reduced this risk significantly, and the risk associated with CVS is generally considered to be less than 1%.
Preterm Labor (PTL): In some cases, CVS might trigger contractions that could lead to preterm labor. However, the incidence of this complication is low.
Leakage of Amniotic Fluid (AF): The risk of amniotic fluid leakage is minimal, but it’s still important to monitor for this potential complication.
Rh Sensitization: This refers to the development of antibodies in the mother’s blood that could affect subsequent pregnancies. This risk is relatively low and can be managed with appropriate medical interventions.
Complications of CVS for the Baby:
Death: While extremely rare, there’s a very small chance that the procedure could lead to fetal demise.
Hemorrhage: Similar to the risk in mothers, there’s a low risk of bleeding for the baby due to the needle insertion.
Infection: The risk of infection affecting the baby is generally low.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
10-12 weeks.
Nursing care
Explain Procedure and provide comfort measures and emotional support
Fetal Monitoring
Patient teaching:
Report leaking fluid
Abdominal pain
Bleeding
Decreased Fetal movement
Fever
Rhogham to RH- women
Fetal Assessment via Electronic Fetal Monitoring
Non-Stress Test (NST):
The Non-Stress Test is a relatively simple and non-invasive procedure that monitors the fetal heart rate and its variability in response to the natural movements of the fetus. It’s typically performed during the third trimester of pregnancy and involves placing two monitors on the mother’s abdomen:
Fetal Heart Rate Monitor: This monitor records the fetal heart rate over a specific period, usually around 20 to 30 minutes. It detects accelerations in the fetal heart rate that are associated with fetal movement.
Tocodynamometer: This monitor measures uterine contractions, which can help correlate any changes in the fetal heart rate with contractions.
During the test, the healthcare provider assesses the fetal heart rate patterns for baseline variability and the presence of accelerations, which are positive signs of fetal well-being. A reactive NST is characterized by the presence of a certain number of accelerations within a specified time frame, indicating that the fetus is receiving an adequate oxygen supply.
Contraction Stress Test (CST or OST):
The Contraction Stress Test, also known as the Oxytocin Stress Test (OST), is a more intensive test used to assess the ability of the fetus to withstand the stress of labor contractions. This test is usually reserved for cases where there might be concerns about the fetus’s oxygen supply during labor.
The CST involves stimulating uterine contractions, either naturally through nipple stimulation or artificially using a medication called oxytocin. The goal is to simulate the stress of labor contractions and observe the fetal heart rate response. Similar to the NST, monitors are placed on the mother’s abdomen to measure both fetal heart rate and uterine contractions.
Interpretation of the CST results involves evaluating the fetal heart rate patterns in response to contractions. A negative CST result shows that the fetus’s heart rate remains relatively stable during contractions, indicating a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. A positive CST result, on the other hand, indicates that the fetal heart rate decelerates significantly during contractions, which could suggest inadequate oxygen supply and might require further evaluation.