A recent study found that only one in six pregnant women meet the recommended physical activity levels, with older, non-white women and those with lower incomes being less likely to exercise. Doctors are urged to encourage pregnant women to engage in moderate activities most days of the week.
Researchers found that women with preeclampsia and elevated uric acid levels had a nearly seven-fold increased risk of premature delivery and delivered nearly four weeks earlier than those with normal uric acid levels. High blood pressure without protein in the urine also linked to early delivery risks.
A study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine found that treatment of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) significantly improved women's sexual function scores in all domains. The researchers discovered a link between the physiological changes of one partner affecting the other, highlighting the importance of addressing ED to impr...
Dr. Henry Gabelnick, a renowned expert in reproductive health and microbicide development, has been awarded the lifetime achievement award by International Conference on AIDS India. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the field, including the development of Ushercell, a microbicide consisting of cellulose sulfate.
A study found that nearly two-thirds of heavy smokers' sperm failed a test measuring fertilizing capacity, with those who smoked more cigarettes per day showing lower fertility rates. The research suggests that heavy smoking overloads the nicotine receptor in human sperm and testes, leading to a decline in fertilizing potential.
Researchers found that microfluidics can successfully facilitate IVF in mice, with lower sperm concentrations required compared to traditional culture dishes. The technology has promising potential as a viable option for human IVF, potentially offering an alternative to ICSI.
Researchers found that hypothermia significantly reduced brain injury and death from oxygen loss in newborns. The study, led by Seetha Shankaran, M.D., at Wayne State University, showed a 44% lower rate of moderate to severe disability or death in infants treated with cooling compared to those in the control group.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that radical surgery significantly improves five-year survival rates for patients with ovarian cancer and diaphragm disease. The procedure resulted in a 55% survival rate compared to 28% for those who did not undergo surgery.
A study confirms that couples using natural family planning have intercourse just as frequently as those using other methods. They engage in more frequent sex before and after fertile times, with less sex during fertile days.
The Contraception Awareness Program at Queen's University has developed an innovative bilingual web site, sexualityandu.ca, which attracts 5,000 hits per day. The site provides information and answers to queries about contraception, safer sex practices, and sexual well-being.
The incidence of preterm birth and low birthweight infants are pressing obstetrical issues, according to Michael Paidas. He emphasized the need for risk assessment with fetal fibronectin and cervical length to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers have found a surge in Rsf-1 gene copies in 13.2% of high-grade ovarian cancers, but not in low-grade or benign tumors. The amplification is associated with poorer survival rates, and the Hopkins scientists are working to develop targeted therapies.
The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining strong bones, particularly for young people, who can build peak bone mass between ages 11-17. Experts stressed the need for proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which affects one in three women over 50 worldwide.
A study by Yale researchers found that a combination of platinum-based chemotherapy and vaginal radiation significantly reduces the recurrence of uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC). The procedure increases survival rates among women with this aggressive form of uterine cancer, which affects about seven percent of new cases at Yale.
Premature birth is a complex disorder with no single cause, requiring a multi-faceted approach. Research in six promising areas may lead to new clinical strategies for identifying high-risk patients and preventing premature birth.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that AgRP neurons play a crucial role in regulating eating behavior and body weight. The research found that these neurons are essential for acute regulation of eating, and their destruction leads to anorexia and changes in blood glucose levels.
Researchers found that MXC alters estrogen-regulated gene Hoxa10 in the reproductive tract, reducing embryo implantation ability. Exposure to MXC has been shown to induce abnormalities in female reproductive tract development and function.
A study by Yale University researchers found that most embryos produced during IVF do not result in live births. The study aimed to identify methods for screening viable embryos and improve egg production techniques.
A Canadian-led study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that amnioinfusion does not reduce the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome. Meconium aspiration syndrome is a rare but serious neonatal lung condition caused by inhaling a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid during labor.
Researchers found that women with fourth-degree tears were significantly more likely to have bowel problems and incontinence of stool. The study suggests that third- and fourth-degree lacerations should not be grouped together as 'severe perineal lacerations' due to differing outcomes.
A Yale University study found that early use of hormone therapy is linked to fewer wrinkles and firmer skin. The researchers compared 11 non-users with nine long-term hormone therapy users and found significant decreases in wrinkle severity and rigidity.
A new study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found no correlation between psychological stress and IVF success rates. The research, based on extensive questionnaires, showed that patients' well-being prior to treatment had no impact on their chances of conceiving.
Researchers have developed a bank of fetal skin cells that can provide burned patients with high-quality skin substitutes, closing wounds in just over two weeks. The technique has great potential for tissue engineering and could simplify the surgical process.
Researchers aim to investigate whether starting hormone therapy early can prevent atherosclerosis and heart attacks. The KEEPS trial, led by Yale University, seeks healthy women aged 42-58 for a double-blind study exploring the effects of early menopausal hormone therapy.
A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that babies born at night have a 12-16% increase in neonatal mortality, accounting for almost 10% of all neonatal deaths in California. This increased risk is attributed to various factors, including potential complications during delivery and reduced access to healthcare services.
A Stanford study found that surgically closing a woman's peritoneum after a C-section significantly reduces the risk of abdominal adhesions. The research suggests that this long-held practice may not be necessary and could even offer benefits in terms of reducing post-operative pain.
A new study explores how consumers perceive risks in natural vs medicalized childbirth, revealing cultural anxieties over technology and loss of autonomy. The research highlights the struggles consumers face when approaching childbirth and the risks associated with both natural and medicalized methods.
Research suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to estrogen deficiency. Additionally, studies have shown that HRT does not compromise survival in patients who are survivors from gynecologic cancer.
Primary care physicians overwhelmingly believe that annual physical examinations provide valuable time for counseling on preventive health behaviors and improve the physician-patient relationship. Despite current guidelines recommending more selective screening, many PCPs perform annual exams due to patient demand and perceived benefits.
A recent study by Yale University researchers found that sEGFR, a breast cancer growth regulator, can indicate the effectiveness of letrozole in postmenopausal women with metastatic breast cancer. Decreased concentrations of sEGFR were seen in 73% and 76% of patients after one month and three months of treatment respectively.
A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine shows that treatment for mild gestational diabetes reduces maternal glucose levels and improves health outcomes for both mothers and babies. The ACHOIS trial, the largest of its kind, recruited 1000 women and 1030 babies from Australia and the UK.
Researchers found that taking pioglitazone for three years significantly reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in women who had previously had gestational diabetes. This is promising news for preventing and treating type 2 diabetes, as it may help stabilize beta-cell function.
A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that high malpractice premiums are affecting the supply of obstetricians, particularly in states with the highest costs. Researchers found a significant increase in births-per-junior fellow in high-premium states compared to low-premium states.
A study found that nearly all US physicians in six high-risk specialties reported practicing defensive medicine, with common practices including ordering unnecessary tests and referring patients for consultation. Defensive medicine may reduce access to care and pose risks of physical harm, particularly in women's health.
Researchers at U-M have identified a method that produces viable eggs when thawed, allowing cancer patients to preserve fertility. The vitrification technique enables 98% survival of eggs after thawing, compared to traditional slow-freeze techniques.
Researchers investigated the role of genital neurological integrity and found that almost half of women with female sexual dysfunction (FSD) reported symptoms. Decreased sensation in the clitoris was particularly prevalent among those with multiple forms of FSD.
A study of 225 women undergoing IVF found that side-stream smoking was associated with lower implantation and pregnancy rates compared to non-smoking and mainstream smoking groups. The researchers are calling for women to reduce or prevent exposure to cigarette smoke, especially when trying to conceive.
Researchers found that women born in March reached menopause at under 49 years, while those born in October waited over 50 years for it to happen. The study suggests prenatal environmental factors can affect a baby's adult life and reproductive health.
A study led by Daniel W. Cramer found that high blood levels of antibodies against MUC1 protein are associated with lower incidence of ovarian cancer. These events include bone fractures and gynecological surgeries, suggesting a potential link between immune system activation and cancer protection.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a new blood test for ovarian cancer screening using four biomarkers, showing high sensitivity and specificity. The test predicts cancer in patients whose levels of two or more biomarkers fall within a certain warning area.
A study of over 900 primary care residents found that they feel unprepared to counsel patients on depression, substance abuse, and domestic violence. While most felt confident in discussing smoking and diet/exercise, gaps in training remain.
A study by University of North Carolina researchers finds that routine episiotomy during childbirth does not reduce pain or prevent complications, but may cause more harm. Women who underwent the procedure were more likely to experience urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and impaired sexual function.
Researchers have successfully developed human eggs from ovarian surface cells (OSE cells) in a laboratory setting. This breakthrough has potential applications in human reproduction, including increased chances of conception for women with reduced fertility and premature menopause.
Research found low doses of BPA in female rats inhibit estrogen-induced synaptic connections, affecting hippocampal development and memory. High concentrations of BPA have been reported in pregnant women's blood, potentially impacting human hippocampal development and long-term effects on children's learning ability.
A study published in Epidemiology found that women with a history of preeclampsia are at a two-fold risk of death compared to those without the disorder. Women diagnosed with preeclampsia who had a subsequent normal birth were also found to have a significantly increased risk of dying after 20 years of follow-up.
Researchers discovered that low levels of protein Z and S early in pregnancy can increase the risk of pregnancy complications. The study included 103 women with normal pregnancies, 106 with pregnancy complications, and 20 with inherited clotting conditions. Women with prior complications may be at higher risk for future issues.
Researchers found a unique organization of inputs on hypocretin neurons in mice, where excitatory nerve junctions outnumber inhibitory contacts by almost 10 fold. Stressors like fasting excite these neurons, leading to insomnia and associated metabolic disturbances, including obesity.
Research found that Viagra increased fetal weights to normal values and completely prevented fetal resorption, suggesting beneficial effects on maternal uterine vascular adaptation and fetal health. The study's selective effect on the uteroplacental circulation avoids complications of antihypertensive therapy during pregnancy.
Scientists have successfully grown functional fat cells in a laboratory using a new microscopic three-dimensional scaffolding. The discovery may lead to breakthroughs in treating type II diabetes and could provide a source of transplantable organs.
A recent study found that pregnant women who engaged in regular exercise had improved mental health and reduced symptoms of depression. The research suggests that moderate exercise, such as 30 minutes a day, can help counteract the negative effects of pregnancy on physical and mental well-being.
A new algorithm calculates the ratio of three specific proteins in urine and blood to identify severe preeclampsia with high sensitivity and specificity. This approach may provide a more accurate diagnosis than current tests, which can be confusing and lead to premature birth.
Researchers identified protein biomarkers in amniotic fluid linked to preterm labor, predicting success of cervical stitching. The study also found additional biomarkers suggesting other causes of preterm birth.
Researchers debate the ethics of commercial cord blood banking, citing logistical difficulties and low probabilities of use. While some argue for private sector involvement, others raise concerns about exploiting emotional vulnerabilities of parents for financial gain.
A large US study confirms that prior caesarean section does not increase the risk of future stillbirth. The research used a massive dataset of over 250,000 patients and found no association between prior caesarean delivery and increased risk of stillbirth.
A study published in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reveals that metabolic profiling can accurately identify patients at risk for preterm delivery. The method has shown a high degree of accuracy in identifying patients across different clinical groups, offering new hope for predicting the course of preterm labor.
Current clinical practice identifies only half of infected mothers, highlighting the need for systematic screening. Screening can detect infection early, preventing severe eye and brain damage in infants.
Researchers have developed a novel method called MR scoring to rapidly detect preterm birth from inflammation and infection in women. The test uses biomarkers Human neutrophil defensin 1, Human neutrophil defensin 2, Calgranulin C and Calgranulin A to identify women at risk of premature delivery with high sensitivity and specificity.
Researchers uncover key mechanisms behind puberty, revealing that a specific gene and protein interact to trigger hormone secretion. The study provides new insights into human development and may help prevent precocious or delayed puberty.
Researchers estimate that progesterone therapy could reduce the rate of recurrent preterm birth in the US by about 2%, preventing around 10,000 premature births annually. The study's findings are based on a clinical trial showing a significant reduction in preterm birth risk among women with a history of spontaneous preterm birth.
A study of 150 subjects found that listening to a relaxation tape prior to and during mammography did not decrease women's feelings of pain and anxiety. In fact, virtually none of the participants experienced pain or anxiety during the test, contradicting previous studies that attributed non-compliance to pain.