The international Perinatal Outcomes in the Pandemic (iPOP) study: protocol

Area of Science:

• Perinatal epidemiology
• Global public health
• Environmental health

Background:

• Preterm birth is a leading global cause of infant mortality, with largely unknown etiologies.
• Early COVID-19 lockdowns showed reduced preterm birth rates, but potential increases in stillbirths require investigation.
• Understanding pandemic impacts on perinatal outcomes is crucial for global maternal and child health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine changes in preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth rates during COVID-19 lockdowns globally.
• To assess if these perinatal outcome changes vary by region, income, or COVID-19 related factors.
• To investigate the influence of lockdown stringency, air quality, and socioeconomic markers on adverse perinatal outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing population-based aggregate data and standardized definitions for perinatal outcomes.
• Conducting an interrupted time series analysis from January 2015 to July 2020.
• Leveraging data from at least 121 researchers across 37 countries.

Main Results:

• Analysis of preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth rate changes during COVID-19 lockdowns.
• Assessment of global consistency and regional variations in perinatal outcome trends.
• Evaluation of the modification of adverse perinatal outcomes by COVID-19 infection rates, lockdown stringency, air quality, and socioeconomic factors.

Conclusions:

• The international Perinatal Outcomes in the Pandemic (iPOP) Study will provide critical insights into perinatal health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Findings will inform the development of improved prenatal care strategies globally.
• This research capitalizes on a unique global "natural experiment" to advance understanding of preterm birth and related outcomes.