mojgan mirghafourvand

Currently, birth experience is considered an indicator for evaluating the quality of care provided during labor and birth. This study examined the effect of the Iranian positive birth experience guideline on the birth experience of primiparous women.

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted at Taleghani Hospital, Tabriz, Iran (2019). Thirty pregnant women admitted to labor after checking the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned to intervention (developed guidelines) and control (routine hospital care) groups. Women’s birth experience was evaluated 24 hours postpartum using the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ 2.0). An independent sample t-test was employed to compare the average scores between the groups.

The mean (standard deviation) of the total score of birth experience in the intervention and control groups was 3.0 (0.4) and 2.1 (0.5), respectively. The average score of the childbirth experience in the intervention group was significantly greater than that of the control group [Mean difference: 0.9; 95% confidence interval: 0.5–1.2; P < 0.001].

The Iranian guideline for improving birth experiences was able to improve primiparous women’s birth experiences more effectively than routine care. Practical Implications. The findings of this study can be considered in the policies and management of healthcare centers.

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women, with negative impacts on their health and well-being. Women’s perceptions of breast cancer can affect their preventive and screening behaviors. This study aims to survey the perceptions of breast cancer and identify the associated factors among women attending healthcare centers in Tabriz, north of Iran.

The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 372 women aged >40 years referred to healthcare centers in Tabriz city from December 2022 to March 2023. A cluster random sampling method was employed. Data were collected using a sociodemographic form and Taylan et al.’s breast cancer perception scale (BCPS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation test, independent t-test, ANOVA, and general linear model were utilized for data analysis in SPSS software, version 16.

The mean total score of BCPS was 65.04±8.60. The perceived fear dimension had the lowest mean score (8.27±4.02). A significant difference was observed in the BCPS score based on the woman’s educational level (P<0.001), the husband’s educational level (P=0.002), the number of children (P=0.04), and the history of a benign change in women’s breast (P<0.001). Based on the regression analysis, women’s educational level (B=-0.13, 95%CI=0.02-0.24, P=0.018) and number of children (P=0.048, B=-0.038, CI=-0.003-0.79) were the predictors of breast cancer perception.

The women in Tabriz City have a relatively low level of breast cancer perception, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions to improve their knowledge and mitigate their fear. More educational programs are needed for women with low educational levels and a high number of children in health centers to promote their breast cancer perceptions and screening outcomes.

Respectful maternity care (RMC) is a crucial approach to enhancing the experiences of mothers. This study aimed to explore women's views on the factors contributing to disrespect and abuse (D&A) during childbirth.

A qualitative study was conducted with 12 postpartum women selected through purposive sampling to ensure maximum diversity. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using a conventional content analysis method.

The analysis revealed seven key categories. These categories included respect for women, meeting needs and preferences, involvement of women, continuity of care, empathy, adequate human and non-human resources, and factors that deter D&A.

It is essential to develop effective interventions to enhance RMC across various dimensions. Providing RMC during and after childbirth necessitates the involvement of policymakers and health managers. This can be accomplished by addressing the welfare and environmental needs, showing empathy towards mothers, safeguarding their privacy, alleviating staff workloads, and transforming the attitudes of healthcare workers.

Women often feel more vulnerable during delivery, whereby the birth plan becomes most applicable, as an approach for pregnant women to present their expectations for childbirth. This systematic review was conducted to determine the effect of birth plan on birth outcomes.

This systematic review was conducted by searching across databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Medline, EMBASE, ProQuest, Magiran, IranDoc, and IranMedex using search terms of “plan birth”, “birth experience”, “pregnancy”, and “labor with no time limitation until January 2024. Bias assessment of randomized controlled trials was done using the Cochran handbook, while that of quasi-randomized clinical trials was done via ROBINS-I.

A total of 424 articles were retrieved from database searches, and an additional 10 articles were identified through manual searches. Ultimately, 9 studies with totally 1949 participants were included in the systematic review, and 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results of meta-analysis showed that the mean score of childbirth experience was significantly higher in the birth plan compared to the control group (SMD=0.60; 95%CI: 0.07 to 1.13; P=0.03). Vaginal delivery frequency was significantly higher in the birth plan than in the control group (OR= 3.50; 95%CI: 1.78 to 6.89; P=0.0003). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of stages of labor (P>0.05). The results on neonatal outcomes were discrepant.

The birth plan improves the childbirth experience and delivery outcomes. Clinical trials with stronger designs are suggested while also observing all RCT principles.

Considering the relatively high prevalence of infertility and its numerous psycho-social problems, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating stress, depression, and anxiety and their relationship with the quality of life in pregnant women with a history of primary infertility.

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 pregnant women with a history of primary infertility who referred to the infertility clinic of Al-Zahra Hospital in Tabriz. Eligible participants were selected using a convenient sampling method. Data were collected using an individual-social questionnaire, the Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Vandenberg's Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire, and Quality of Life Gravidarum. Data analysis was done in SPSS24 software using Pearson and Spearman correlation tests, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, and multivariate linear regression.

The median (percentile 25-75) of perceived stress score in mothers was 44.0 (40.2-46.0). The mean±standard deviation scores of anxiety, depression, and quality of life were 66.1±11.4 (score range: 17-119), 16.3±3.2 (score range: 0-30), and 32.3±5.2 (score range: 9-63), respectively. There was no significant correlation between perceived stress and depression and quality of life; however, a significant negative correlation was observed between anxiety and quality of life.

The results of the present study indicated a decrease in mental health in pregnant women following primary infertility. Moreover, anxiety scores had a significant and inverse correlation with quality of life. Therefore, it seems necessary to provide programs to improve the mental health of these women along with routine pregnancy care by health care providers.

Sexual function significantly affects the quality of life in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). This study aimed to identify predictors of sexual function considering psychological and socio-demographic factors.

The study was conducted in Tabriz, 2021, with 130 women who had POI. Data were collected using the female sexual function index (FSFI), perceived stress scale (PSS), Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES), Beck depression scale (BDI), and socio-demographic characteristics questionnaire. The Pearson correlation test was used to determine the correlation between psychological variables and the total sexual function score. Additionally, the general linear model was used to identify the predictors of sexual function.

 The mean (SD) score of sexual function was 13.8 (6.7). There was a significant negative correlation between stress (r=-0.22, p=0.018), state anxiety (r =-0.13, p=0.153), trait anxiety (r=-0.26, p=0.005), depression (r=-0.39, p<0.001) with total sexual function score. On the other hand, self-esteem had a positive correlation (r= 0.34, p<0.001) with sexual function score. Moreover, variables such as desire to pregnancy and type of pregnancy were predictors of sexual function. Sexual function score was significantly higher in women who wanted to become pregnant than in ones who did not (p=0.012) and in women who became pregnant naturally than in women who became pregnant through assisted reproductive techniques (ART) (p=0.002).

The study findings indicate that the sexual function of women with POI is influenced not only by psychological factors but also by their desire to become pregnant and the type of pregnancy they have. Given the intricate interplay between psychological and physical factors and sexual function among infertile women, further research is warranted in this area.

Pelvic floor disorders are one of the most common morbidities in women, which have negative consequences on women's daily life. Since the total prevalence of this disorder among Iranian′s women has not been reported by appropriate tools, this study was conducted with aim to determine the prevalence of pelvic floor disorder and its risk factors.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021-2022 on 400 non-pregnant women of reproductive age referring to Tabriz health centers. Data related to pelvic floor disorders were collected through the Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire and the Sociodemographic and Obstetric Characteristics Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 26) and Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression. P<0.05 was considered significant.

In this study, 264 participants (66.0%) had pelvic floor disorder.  Also, 191 participants (47.8%) had urinary incontinence, 235 (58.8%) had fecal incontinence, 52 (13.0%) had pelvic organ prolapse, and 271 (67.8%) had sexual dysfunction. The odds of pelvic floor disorder was lower in women with primary education (odds ratio (OR): 0.46; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.24 to 0.86; P=0.016) and women who exercised (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.86; P=0.009). History of vaginal delivery (OR: 2.37; 95% CI: 1.41 to 3.96; P=0.001) and having constipation (OR: 3.37; 95% CI: 1.62 to 7.00; P<0.001) significantly increased the odds of pelvic floor disorders.

Pelvic floor disorders were common among participated women. The results of the study highlight specific risk factors in the management and prevention of pelvic floor disorders. Therefore, screening and preventive measures are suggested by health workers considering its risk factors.

Adolescent pregnancy is one of the important challenges of reproductive health. Factors such as family conflict, poor social support, and low self-esteem among adolescent mothers can expose them to postpartum depression. Therefore, the present study was performed to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression and its relationship with birth experience among adolescent mothers.

The present study was a cross-sectional study that was conducted on 202 adolescent mothers referred to urban and suburban health centers in Tabriz, Iran. Sampling method was census and done in the period of 1 to 3 months after birth in 2022. After checking the eligibility criteria, childbirth experience questionnaire version 2.0 (CEQ 2.0) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) were completed through interview. Data analysis was done using SPSS software and logistic regression test.

The mean (SD) of postpartum depression score was 7.5 (5.6) ranging from 0 to 30. The prevalence of postpartum depression and negative birth experience were approximately 23.8% and 11.4%, respectively. After adjusting the effect of possible confounding variables, there was no statistically significant relationship between the negative experience of birth and postpartum depression (p= 0.310). In mothers with unwanted pregnancy compared to mothers with wanted pregnancy, the probability of postpartum depression was 2.22 times higher [Odds Ratio (95% Confidence Interval) = 2.22 (4.71 to 1.05); p= 0.037].

Although in this study, approximately one-fifth of adolescent mothers were exposed to postpartum depression; there was no significant relationship between the negative birth experience and postpartum depression. The results of this study can be used to identify high-risk mothers, especially mothers with unwanted pregnancies, referring them for counseling, and prevent postpartum depression.

 A satisfying and proper sexual relationship that meets the needs of both spouses plays a crucial role in the stability and longevity of the family. Sexual self-concept is one of the factors affecting women's sexual behavior and performance and can be changed throughout life.

 This study aimed to determine the status of sexual self-concept and its socio-demographic predictors of women on the verge of marriage.

 This cross-sectional study was conducted on 130 women referring to premarital counseling centers in Tabriz, Iran. The data collection tool was the questionnaire of personal and social characteristics and Snell's Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire. Pearson's correlation test, one-way analysis of variance, and multivariate linear regression test were used in data analysis with SPSS software version 24.

 The mean (standard deviation) of the positive sexual self-concept score was 117 (0.20) from the obtainable score of 0 - 176, and the mean (standard deviation) of the negative sexual self-concept score was 16 (0.7) from the obtainable score of 4 - 38. Additionally, the mean (standard deviation) of the sexual self-concept score was 44 (0.9) from the range of the obtainable score of 0 - 72. The results of multivariate analysis with multivariate linear regression test and control of confounding variables showed that the husband’s age, education, and mother's education were the predictors of positive sexual self-concept. Moreover, age, father's education, and duration of previous acquaintance were reported as predictors of negative sexual self-concept, and age was observed as a predictor of situational sexual self-concept.

 The study's findings indicated that age, education, parents' education, and the duration of acquaintance with the future spouse could predict sexual self-concept in women approaching marriage without sexual abuse. Given that sexual self-concept evolves well before any sexual activity, policymakers can enhance women's sexual self-concept through interventions, such as psychological counseling with a focus on sexual health. This, in turn, can improve their overall well-being, ultimately supporting stable family foundations and successful childbearing in the future.

Prolonged labor stages can have serious consequences for both mother and infant. Positive effects and encouraging results of nipple stimulation on the duration of labor have been observed in some studies. This study was performed with aim to determine the effects of breast stimulation on the duration of labor (primary outcome) and Apgar score and method of delivery (secondary outcomes).

This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. A search of published Persian and English texts without time restrictions up to July 2023 was performed in reputable databases including Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, and the SID Persian database with English keywords of Stimulation, Physical stimulation, Labor progress, Labor stage, Duration of labor, Breast, Nipple, and Labor, as well as their equivalent Persian keywords. Two authors independently assessed the quality of the articles using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I tool, and the meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan software (version 5.3).

Out of 307 identified studies, 10 articles met the inclusion criteria. According to the subgroup analysis based on the control group, nipple stimulation compared to no intervention significantly reduced the duration of the first stage of labor (4 studies, mean difference: -2.66; 95% confidence interval: -1.70 to -3.61; p<0.001) and the second stage of labor (3 studies, mean difference: -8.22; 95% confidence interval: -3.62 to -12.83; p<0.001).

Although breast stimulation compared to no intervention may reduce the duration of labor, due to the limited studies in this area, further high-quality studies are needed before recommending its use.

 Infant colic, causing excessive crying, poses anxiety for parents and a challenge for pediatricians and nurses. The Infant Colic Scale (ICS) serves to assess the severity and causal factors of colic. Despite its significance, the psychometric properties of ICS have not been evaluated in the Iranian population. This study seeks to address this gap by assessing the psychometric properties of ICS in Iran.

 A sample of 220 mothers with 2–16-week-old term infants diagnosed with infantile colic was selected through convenience sampling. Following forward and back-translation, the face validity, content validity, and construct validity of ICS were systematically evaluated. Reliability was examined through both internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and test-retest stability methods.

 Content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR) values for ICS were 0.94 and 0.81, respectively. The good fit indices confirmed the validity of the five-factor structure. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were 0.71 and 0.94, respectively.

 The Persian version of ICS is a valid and reliable tool, suitable for assessing infantile colic in the Iranian population. Future studies and clinical practice can utilize this tool to identify major causes of this disorder in the Iranian context.

Episiotomy is a usual midwifery surgery. Iran is a country with an abundant source of medicinal plants. This study aimed to investigate ginger extract ointment’s effects on the pain and recovery of episiotomy incisions in nulliparous women.

This randomized clinical trial was conducted in a public hospital in Iran on 70 nulliparous women with an episiotomy incision. The women were randomly assigned to ginger extract ointment and placebo groups. The primary outcomes included pain and wound healing that were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), redness, edema, ecchymosis/bruising, discharge, and an approximation scale (REEDA). The participants were followed up before discharge from the hospital and 5 × 1 and 10 × 1 days after the intervention. The secondary outcome was the number of painkillers used during the study. Data were analyzed by chisquare, independent t test, and the Mann-Whitney U via SPSS-13. The significance levels were determined to be P ≤ 0.05.

There was no significant difference between participants treated with ginger extract ointment and placebo in the pain and wound healing scores before the intervention, 5 × 1 and 10 × 1 days after the intervention. But, the pain intensity decreased, and the recovery speed increased clinically. Also, regarding the secondary outcome of this study, no significant difference between the placebo and intervention groups in the number of painkillers participants took.

The ginger ointment could not significantly improve episiotomy wounds’ pain and healing rate, but it was clinically helpful. So more studies with different doses of this ointment are needed.

Like becoming a mother, becoming a father is a new and important role that entails several responsibilities and expectations for men. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychological status and perceived social support in men during their wives’ pregnancy.

This cross-sectional study investigated 372 Iranian men in the third trimester of their wives' pregnancy using multistage cluster sampling from May 2014 to February 2015 in Tabriz, Iran. The self-administered questionnaires used included demographic questionnaire, Personal Resource Questionnaire (PRQ-85-part2), and short form of depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-21). The statistical tests including Spearman correlation, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal Wallis and linear regression model were used for data through SPSS v. 21.

 Perceived social support was negatively correlated with anxiety (r=-0.390, P<0.001), depression (r= -0.277, P<0.001), and stress in men (r= -0.290, P<0.001). Based on the results of multiple linear regression, the father's education, mother's occupation, income, and fetus gender by ultrasound were significantly related to the anxiety of fathers. Moreover, mother's age was significantly correlated with men's depression.

Based on the results, social support affects the psychological status of men in the third trimester of pregnancy of their wives and the levels of anxiety, depression and stress decrease in men with increasing of social support.  Healthcare providers should pay more attention to the increasing public awareness, stress management and communication skills training, and support of men during their wife’s pregnancy.

Amniocentesis is the most common invasive method used for diagnosis of genetic disorders. Studies showed that women with insufficient information about amniocentesis have high level of anxiety. The present study was performed to evaluate the impact of education on perceived stress of women referring for amniocentesis.

This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 62 pregnant women referring to Alzahra hospital, Tabriz, Iran for amniocentesis from March 2019 to January 2020. Using block randomization, the subjects were assigned to two groups of 31 women for each group. The intervention group received an oral and face-to-face individual training session. Perceived Stress Scale and Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were completed before and 2 to 3 weeks after amniocentesis (before receiving results). ANCOVA and repeated measures ANOVA were used for data analysis.

The mean score of perceived stress before, after the intervention and 2 to 3 weeks after amniocentesis was 25.25±7.49, 23.87±7.40 and 24.45±7.09, respectively. The mean score of state anxiety were 43.84±10.03, 42.35±11.13 and 41.67±11.24, and trait anxiety were 42.53±10.56, 39.19±9.35 and 41.29±10.40, respectively. After the intervention, with adjusting the baseline scores, significant difference was found between two groups regarding stress (P=0.020), state anxiety (P=0.029) and trait anxiety (P=0.002), but 2 to 3 weeks after amniocentesis, no difference was observed in terms of perceived stress (P =0.198), state anxiety (P =0.394) and trait anxiety (P =0.516).

Positive short-term effect of education was seen on perceived stress and anxiety of women referring for amniocentesis. It is recommended to perform more trials to assess its long-term effects.

A high-quality Ph.D. course requires frequent assessment and identification of deficiencies and limitations. The midwifery Ph.D. course started in 2016 in Iran and since no evaluation has been performed on this program, the present study aimed to evaluate the Iranian midwifery Ph.D. course based on the CIPP model.

This descriptive-evaluative research was conducted based on the CIPP model in 2021 in the schools of nursing and midwifery of Tabriz and Ahvaz Universities of medical sciences, Iran. The statistical population included the faculty members of the midwifery Ph.D. program (9 individuals) and midwifery Ph.D. graduates and students (21 individuals). The data collection tools comprised CIPP-based questionnaires exclusively for faculty members and students. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis.

Most students (81%) and faculty members (77.8%) reported an appropriate general evaluation of the midwifery Ph.D. curriculum. Most faculty members (77.8%) and students (90.8%) reported the indicators of the midwifery Ph.D. curriculum as appropriate in terms of context. More than three forth of faculty members (77.8%) and more than half of the students (57.1%) reported this curriculum as appropriate regarding input. This program was also reported to be appropriate according to 52.4% of students and 66.7% of faculty members in terms of process. Furthermore, a total of 66.7% of participants in both groups reported an appropriate status in terms of output.

Midwifery Ph.D. curriculum was reported as an appropriate program. Also, students of this discipline requested greater stress on clinical upskilling for midwifery Ph.D.

Using bone turnover marker (BTM) monitoring to identify “quick losers” who may develop osteoporosis in the coming years is one of the main challenges in clinical practice. This study was implemented to examine the association of BTMs with bone mineral density (BMD) as well as to determine their relationship with the fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) in women in the postmenopausal period.

This study was observational cross?sectional research that was done on women between the ages of 50 and 65 who were in the postmenopausal period. A dual?energy X?ray absorptiometrywas applied to select 120 eligible women with normal BMD and 120 women without normal BMD. BTMs were assessed using enzyme?linked immunosorbent assay. Osteoporosis’s Odds Ratio (OR) was estimated using a confounder?adjusted logistic regression model. The area under curve was calculated for the differentiation of low BMD in the postmenopausal period through receiver?operator characteristic (ROC) curves. To assess the probability of major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture for the future 10 years, FRAX was applied.

Higher serum osteocalcin (OC) (OR: 1.134, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.086–1.184), osteopontin (OP) (OR: 1.180; 95%CI: 1.105–1.261), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (OR: 1.007; 95%CI: 1.001–1.144) concentrations were potential risk factors for developing low BMD in women after menopause. The area under curve (AUC) (95%CI) for OC, OP, and ALP was 0.75 (0.668–0.8130), 0.75 (0.685–0.812), and 0.602 (0.524–0.670), respectively. ROC analysis indicated that at the cut?off point of 16.28 ng/mL, sensitivity and specificity were 70.3% and 70.9%, respectively, for OC. Furthermore, at the cut?off point of 28.85 ng/mL, the sensitivity of 70.3% and specificity of 66.6% were obtained for OP. The serum OC and OP were significantly related to hip and major osteoporotic fractures (P < 0.05).

The higher serum concentration of OC, OP, and ALP had significant associations with lower BMD. These BTMs can be complementary tools and helpful in the postmenopausal period as measures for screening of bone loss and possible bone fracture.

Considering that academic success is one of the most important topics for medical sciences schools and faculty members, this study was conducted to determine the predictors of academic success in students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. This cross-sectional study was performed on 542 students of the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran.The sampling method was stratified at random. The sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, Multiple Intelligences Profiling Questionnaire (MIPQ), College Academic Self-Efficacy Scale (CASES), Personal Resource Questionnaire (PRQ-85-PART2), and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) were used to collect data. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS 16 software. The General Linear Model (GLM) was used to determine the predictors of academic success. According to the Pearson correlation test, there was a significant positive correlation between academic grade point average (GPA) and social support (r=0.10, P=0.048), academic self-efficacy (r=0.36, P<0.001) and there was a significant negative relationship between GPA and total mental health score (r=-0.14; P=0.003) and its subdomains including anxiety (r=-0.10, P=0.027), depression (r=-0.15, P=0.002), and social dysfunction (r=-0.12; P=0.010). According to GLM, the variables of academic self-efficacy, and level of education were among the predictors of academic success, so the GPA increased significantly with academic self-efficacy (β:0.02, P<0.001). The GPA was greater in bachelor’s students than in professional doctorate students (β:0.76, P<0.001). The significance level was considered at P<0.05. Due to the significant relationship between academic self-efficacy, and educational level with academic success, the promotion of self-efficacy is necessary for all students of all educational levels.

Vitamin D deficiency in women may play a role in the pathogenesis of infertility and menstrual dysfunction. Due to the high percentage of insufficient vitamin D serum levels in women of reproductive age, recently the role of vitamin D in reproductive physiology has also been considered. The present study was performed with aim to determine the relationship between vitamin D serum level and pregnancy success rate in a cycle of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

In this prospective cohort study conducted in 2022, 116 reproductive-aged women diagnosed with both primary or secondary infertility in their first IVF cycle were studied. Based on the serum level of vitamin D in the blood sample measured by the Elisa method 7 days before embryo transfer, the participants were divided into two groups: deficiency or insufficient and sufficient and were evaluated at the gestational age of 7 weeks in terms of the presence of intrauterine gestational sac and the presence of heartbeat. Data collection tools included socio-demographic, infertility, and nutrition questionnaires, and checklists for recording test results and pregnancy outcomes. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software (version 24) and chi-square, independent t-test, and multivariate logistic regression. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

The mean of vitamin D serum level in people with successful pregnancy and unsuccessful pregnancy was 60.3±26.8 and 66.5±37.4, respectively (p=0.361) and the frequency of pregnancy success in vitamin D sufficient and insufficient group was 23.3% and 13.6%, respectively (p=0.247). Based on multivariate logistic regression and adjusting for confounding variables, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of pregnancy success rate (odds ratio: 2.08; 95% (CI): 0.45 to 9.5; (p=0.346).

Although vitamin D serum level in infertile women with successful pregnancies was more than in women with unsuccessful pregnancies, however, this difference was not significant.

Severe anxiety during labor can result in adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Due to limited studies in Iran and other countries, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of women’s anxiety at the onset of active phase of labor and some of its predictors.

In this cross-sectional study, the participants included 700 low-risk singleton pregnant women with gestational age of 370-416, hospitalized for vaginal delivery at two teaching hospitals in Tabriz, Iran. The anxiety state [by using the Spielberger’s State Anxiety Inventory (SAI)] and dehydration were assessed at cervical dilatation of 4-6 cm. Variables correlated with the anxiety score with P<0.2 in the unadjusted analysis were included in the multiple linear regression model to determine the predictors.  

The mean of the anxiety score was 49.3 (SD 11.7) out of the attainable score of 20-80. About two-thirds of the women had severe (39.6%) or moderate (26.6%) anxiety. The predictors of high anxiety score were: high fear (β=0.610), labor induction (β=0.196), dehydration ≥ 3 h (β=0.109) and < 3 h (β=0.073), second-hand smoke during pregnancy (β=0.087), and no attendance at childbirth preparation classes (β=0.054). The proportion of variance by all these factors was 62%.

Anxiety was very common intrapartum. The during-labor factors including high fear, labor induction, and dehydration were important predictors of the women’s anxiety. It seems that providing the women with appropriate counselling services during pregnancy and responding to their needs during labor could play a significant role in decreasing their anxiety.

To determine the status of self-care performance of pregnant women in the prevention of COVID-19 disease and its relationship with perceived stress during the epidemic period of this disease.

This cross-sectional study was performed on 228 pregnant women who referred to the health centers in Tabriz, Iran, for prenatal care. They were selected by cluster sampling. Data collection tools included questionnaires about Demographic-Social Characteristics, the Self-Care Performance Questionnaire and Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale. Spearman correlation test was used to examine the correlation between self-care performance and perceived stress in bivariate and multivariate analyses. Also, multivariate linear regression was used, with control of demographic-social and obstetric characteristics as possible confounders.

The median (25-75 percentiles) self-care performance score of participants was 0.71 (0.65-0.76), from the achievable range of 20-80, and its mean (± SD) perceived stress score was 25.5 (± 5.6), from the achievable range of 0-56. The Spearman’s rank correlation test results showed a significant inverse correlation between perceived stress and self-care performance scores (r = -0.13; P = 0.041). According to multivariate linear regression test, the variables of self-care performance, education, spouse's education and number of family members were the predictors of perceived stress in pregnant women during the COVID-19 epidemic.

According to the results of the present study, self-care performance of pregnant women in prevention of the COVID-19 disease was good and their stress was moderate. There was a significant inverse correlation between self-care performance and perceived stress that could indicate the high value and importance of the fetus for the mother and her strict adherence to health protocols to prevent COVID-19, which also leads to calming and reduced perceived stress.

Men's participation in all stages of mother and child life has significant effects on their psychological and physical health. Male participation is an important strategy in achieving the millennium development goals, including empowering women and promoting maternal health. This research was conducted with the aim of identifying the role of the family in promoting men's participation in perinatal care.

In this qualitative study, 45 participants including pregnant women and their husbands, healthcare providers, managers and health policymakers were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews, focused group discussions, and field notes, and analyzed simultaneously using conventional qualitative content analysis

After analyzing the data, the main category of "change in family education policies" was obtained. This main category was derived from two sub-categories: "proper upbringing of boys in the family" and "men's readiness to participate". “Proper upbringing of boys in the family" includes two sub-categories "using the family context in teaching participation to boys" and " the existence of a culture of participation in relatives and friends ". “Men's readiness to participate” includes two sub-categories "men desire to participate and accept responsibility" and "men disregard for social norms".

The findings of this study can be used to explain and highlight the strategy to change in family education policies, using family-centered Islamic teachings that emphasize people's attention to their rights and mutual responsibilities, as well as cooperation and empathy of couples and promote the participatory role of men in pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care.

Up to now, limited studies have been done to evaluate the effect of sexual activity during menstruation on the endometriosis. However, due to the menstrual-related symptoms of endometriosis, this study aimed to systematically review the published articles on the association between sexual activity through menstruation and endometriosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This study examined all published observational studies on the association between sexual activity during menstruation and endometriosis, on the basis of the PICOS from conception until September 2021. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to evaluate the quality of the articles. Also, Meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager (RevMan 5.3). Out of the 1,905 retrieved articles of related databases, four studies comprised a total of 3641 patients (2251 cases and 1390 controls), which fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and equally encompassed high (2/4) and low (2/4) methodological quality, were reviewed. The results of all pooled studies showed that the probability of having sexual activity during menstruation is approximately two times higher in the women with endometriosis compared to women without endometriosis [odds ratio (OR)=1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12 to 2.90, P=0.02, I2=78%, Tau=0.17, Chi2=13.72, P=0.003]. In this review, the sexual activity during menstruation was found to be an influencing factor for endometriosis. Due to the importance and complexity of endometriosis and the dearth of evidence on this topic, further studies with more robust designs are recommended.

Disrespect and abuse during childbirth is regarded as harassment of women and a violation of their rights. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the disrespect and abuse questionnaire in Iranian parturient women.

This cross‑sectional study was conducted on 265 postpartum women in both private and public hospitals in Tabriz, Iran. The scale was translated from English into Farsi. In the quantitative face validity, the impact score was determined for each item. Moreover, in the quantitative content validity, the Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) were assessed based on the comments of experts on the relevance, clarity, and simplicity of items (CVI) and the necessity of items (CVR). Construct validity was assessed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses.

In the face validity assessment, all items received a minimum impact score of 1.5. In assessing the content validity, all the items attained the minimum acceptable value of CVR (>0.69) and CVI (>0.79). According to the exploratory factor analysis, the Disrespect and Abuse Questionnaire has 23 items and five factors, including abandoning the mother, improper care, mother’s immobility, not talking to the mother, and mother’s deprivation. The construct validity of the scale was confirmed by the confirmatory factor analysis, in which X</em>2</em>/df </em><5 and root mean square error of approximation <0.08.

The Farsi version of the disrespect and abuse questionnaire can be used as a valid tool for assessing instances of lack of respectful maternity care in the postpartum period.

Girls need special care regarding menstrual hygiene because of early pubertal development and related problems. The researchers aimed to explore the knowledge about the role of the mother-daughter relationship in menstrual hygiene among young teens.

A cross-sectional study was conducted (February-April 2020) among 190 elderly young teenage girls in middle schools who lived in Bukan, North-West of Iran. Data about demographic characteristics, menstrual information, knowledge of menstrual hygiene management, the practice of menstrual hygiene, the premenstrual symptom screening tool, visual analog scale for pain, and parent-child relationship survey were collected by a questionnaire using a multistage random sampling method. Finally, the obtained data were analyzed using SPSS (version 25) through descriptive and analytical statistics.

The most common severe signs and symptoms were anger/irritability (21.6%), fatigue/lack of energy (19.5%), and decreased interest in household activities (17.9%). A sense of shame was reported more among girls who have moderate relationships with their mothers (P=0.011), and a significant relationship was found between mothers’ low literacy and the severity of premenstrual symptoms in their daughters (P=0.036).

Mothers play a crucial role in their daughters’ lives, which can buffer stressors and relieve anxiety, especially during the experiencing of menarche and during the menstruation period, indicating familial support to overcome the puberty-related crisis.

Child marriage is a violation of human rights and children's rights. Since most of these marriages take place without the informed consent of children, and parents are the final decision makers. Therefore, the mothers’ attitude towards the marriage of girls can have an undeniable effect on the early marriage of their daughters. The aim of the present study was to determine the knowledge and attitude of mothers with teenage daughters towards early marriage, its causes and consequences.

This descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted on 270 mothers with teenage daughters in Tabriz in 2020-2021. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test through the SPSS software version 21.

More than half (55.2%) of the mothers had a good level of knowledge about early marriage. The majority of mothers (87.0%) were against marriage before the age of 18. There was a statistically significant relationship between mothers' knowledge and attitude towards early marriage (P<0.001). The emotional, social, intellectual and economic maturity of girls were the most important reasons for the decrease in early marriage, and one of the most important reasons for the increase in early marriage was not reaching intellectual-psychological maturity. The most important consequence of early marriage from the mothers' points of view was the high possibility of family involvement in married life and decision-making.

Despite the negative attitude of mothers towards early marriage, nearly half of them had poor and moderate levels of knowledge regarding early marriage. Therefore, raising the level of knowledge of mothers with teenage daughters about the consequences of early marriage, creating a culture to correct social misconceptions, passing appropriate laws to prevent child marriage, can reduce the severity of this harm.