Globally, it is known that HIV-infected pregnant women are prone to depressive symptoms. Research evidences also suggest that nutrient deficiencies may enhance the depressive illness, and that fish oil omega-3 fatty acids may alleviate the depressive symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of fish oil omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acid-rich supplements on depressive symptoms among HIV-seropositive pregnant women.
Research News
We report the main findings of the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health (WHOMCS), which aimed to assess the burden of complications related to pregnancy, the coverage of key maternal health interventions, and use of the maternal severity index (MSI) in a global network of health facilities.
In our cross-sectional study, we included women attending health facilities in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East that dealt with at least 1000 childbirths per year and had the capacity to provide caesarean section.
Trial of labour is a safe option for most women after one previous caesarean delivery. However, the proportion of women attempting trial of labour after previous caesarean delivery (TOLAC) has been declining in many countries. In addition, women with prior caesarean delivery appear to know little regarding their mode of delivery and healthcare providers’ recommendations. The doctors’ preferences exert a strong influence on patient’s decision whether or not to pursue TOLAC.
Since March 2000, the Population Council and the University of Nairobi have been assisting the Kenya Ministry of Health to implement Safe Motherhood activities in Western Kenya. The purpose of this project was to increase utilization of quality maternal services in the selected districts and, in an effort to improve pregnancy outcomes, focused on improving quality of antenatal care, essential obstetric care, clean and safe delivery, postpartum care, postabortion care, and management issues at all levels. In addition, the project focused on strengthening referral practices and addressing factors responsible for delays by pregnant women in making decisions on when, where, and how to seek care.
Health professionals have a critical role to play in the prevention and management of FGM. However, several KAP (Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices) studies conducted in high and low-income countries have shown a lack of knowledge on WHO classification, diagnosis and management of FGM. Although several countries have developed FGM guidelines for professionals and have voted specific laws against the practice, the studies showed that these measures are not sufficient and that educational activities are needed to implement existing guidelines. Integration of the thematic in the curriculum of health professionals is a longstanding recommendation, but few countries have done it.
In settings with a high prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM), the health sector could play a bigger role in the prevention and care of women and girls who have undergone this harmful practice. However, ministries of health lack clear policies, strategic plans or dedicated funding to implement anti-FGM interventions. Along with limited relevant knowledge and skills to prevent the practice of FGM and care for girls and women living with FGM, health providers have limited interpersonal communication skills and self-efficacy, while some may have supportive attitudes towards FGM and its medicalization. We propose to test the effectiveness of a health system-strengthening intervention that includes training antenatal care (ANC) providers on person-centred communication (PCC) for FGM prevention.
46TH KOGS ANNUAL SCIENTIFIC CONGRESS
THEME: ACCELERATING ADOPTION AND UTILIZATION OF TELEHEALTH TECHNOLOGIES IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATION
DATE: 16TH - 18TH FEBRUARY 2022
The 24th International AIDS Conference - Montreal, Canada, and virtually.
Date: 29th July - 2nd August 2022
It’s time to re-engage and follow the science. Take part in the world’s largest gathering on HIV and AIDS.
THEME: EMERGING RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN SOCIETY
24TH -28TH OCTOBER 2022
This is to inform and welcome you to the upcoming Research Week 2022 held at the University of Nairobi - Main Campus, from 24th -28th October 2022—hosted by the Associate Vice Chancellor Office, RIE.