A four-year study published by Ohio State University researchers found that attempting a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is associated with increased risk of maternal morbidity and serious obstetric complications. Despite this, many women continue to opt for VBAC due to the relatively low level of risk involved.
Researchers at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that combining RU 486 with relaxin could hasten labor and promote healthy delivery in rats. The study suggests that this two-drug approach may also shorten painful labor and reduce Caesarean sections in humans.
A study found that medical students lack sufficient training in critical skills like communication and interviewing, while another study showed course directors vary in teaching chronic care preparedness. To address these gaps, a new course at Johns Hopkins aims to improve patient-physician communication.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison team has developed a stem cell model that mimics placenta formation during the earliest stages of human development, offering new insights into pregnancy and fetal health. The research could lead to better understanding of diseases like preeclampsia, which affects millions of women and infants worldwide.
Researchers found that women with preeclampsia are more likely to have a successful vaginal delivery at tertiary care hospitals compared to primary and secondary care facilities. Tertiary hospitals offer comprehensive maternity and neonatal care services, including transport, education, and research.
Research conducted by Yale University found that most breastfed infants experience little decline in blood serotonin levels after their mothers take Prozac. The study suggests that women should weigh factors such as postpartum depression severity and breastfeeding commitment when considering antidepressant medication.
The panel concludes that researchers should establish a 'bank' with the fewest number of cell lines that reflect the most Americans, prioritizing white Americans but including HLA types common in other ancestral groups. This would enable faster clinical research and ensure fair access to therapies.
Researchers analyzed 1.2 million screening result records, finding that extending Pap tests to 3-year intervals carries a small risk of 3-5 cancers per 100,000 people, similar to annual breast cancer incidence in men ages 45-64.
A UB research study found that sperm from marijuana smokers exhibit abnormal swimming behavior, moving too fast and too early, which can lead to infertility. The study suggests that THC may be causing improper timing of sperm function or bypassing natural inhibition mechanisms.
A manual, low-tech method for 2nd trimester abortions has been deemed safe and effective. The study, conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine, compared the procedure to electric vacuum aspiration and found no significant differences in complications or procedure time.
Fetal surgery for spina bifida has been shown to improve leg function and reduce the need for shunts in infants. The study found that 24 of the 47 surviving infants had better neurologic leg function than predicted, while only 20 required a shunt.
Scientists at the Pittsburgh Development Center are working towards cloning nonhuman primates, overcoming fundamental molecular obstacles first reported in 2003. The goal is to generate at least 10 cloned nonhuman primates and produce identical offspring through embryo splitting for studying human diseases.
A study suggests that women are more likely to turn to their GPs than the internet when seeking information about HRT. Despite increased access to health information online, many women lack 'information literacy' and struggle to navigate online resources.
Researchers debated changes to cervical cancer screening guidelines as a vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV) showed promising results. The study found that vaccination combined with biennial screening was cost-effective and reduced cancer incidence and mortality.
Researchers have developed a new test that can accurately record baby's heart rates in the womb in just 20 minutes, allowing doctors to monitor health and detect potential arrhythmias. The technique uses sophisticated filtering and signal processing technologies to pick out the baby's heart signal from background interference.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that only 16% of pregnant women with parvovirus B19 exhibited symptoms, while 12% experienced fetal heart failure and 16% suffered fetal death. The study highlights the need for closer monitoring and counseling of high-risk patients.
A recent study reveals that physician assistants and primary care specialists like family physicians, nurse practitioners, and midwives are more likely to work in underserved areas. The researchers found a strong correlation between these professions and the provision of healthcare services in rural and urban shortage areas.
A study of 181 sexually active Zimbabwean women found that diaphragms can be used without a partner's knowledge to prevent HIV transmission. The researchers suggest that this method could provide an additional tool for HIV prevention, particularly for women who do not have access to condoms or other forms of protection.
Researchers at UT Southwestern discovered that administering the drug trichostatin A can effectively delay the start of labor in mice by allowing progesterone to continue functioning. This is significant because mice have a short gestation period, and pre-term birth affects over 460,000 infants annually.
A team of Australian researchers has received a five-year grant from the National Institute of Child Health and Development to investigate how environmental stress affects embryonic development. The study aims to understand the long-term health implications for children conceived during poor maternal health or adverse lifestyle choices.
A recent University of Pittsburgh study found that women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) are nearly twice as likely to get herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The study, which involved over 1,200 sexually active women, suggests that more comprehensive screening and treatment could reduce susceptibility to HSV-2.
A new bead-array test can identify the 25 most common cystic fibrosis mutations in just 15 seconds, enabling potential parents to make informed decisions about conception and treatment options. The test requires only genomic DNA from a patient and uses a single reaction to screen for all 31 CF mutations.
The EFT test uses two new biochemical markers, cyclin E and p27, to evaluate endometrial health and predict implantation success. A normal EFT result indicates a healthy endometrium receptive to embryo attachment, improving fertility diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
A one-year study is being conducted at the University of Illinois Chicago to explore the effectiveness of botanicals in treating menopause symptoms. The research aims to determine whether these alternatives can provide relief from hot flashes and other symptoms, while also examining potential risks.
Researchers at U-M developed a new method for separating viable sperm using microfluidics, which increased motile sperm to 98% and improved sperm structure and form. The technique has the potential to benefit men with low sperm numbers and infertility problems.
Researchers found a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer in women with endometriosis, with a half-life increase and higher risks for younger women. In contrast, the risk of cervical cancer was reduced by roughly a third. Further investigation is needed to understand the connection between endometriosis and cancer.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology report shows a trend of increasing availability and efficacy of ART treatments in Europe, with Denmark leading the way in terms of fertility treatment accessibility. The report also highlights declining numbers of embryos transferred per cycle, reducing multiple pregnancies.
A Stanford-led team discovered 12 genes relevant to endometriosis-related infertility, offering potential targets for new treatments. These findings could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of the disease, reducing reliance on surgery and medication.
A study of 213 premature babies found that brain damage was most likely caused by prematurity and infections. The research revealed that even with advances in medical care, such as electronic fetal heart rate monitoring, the incidence of cerebral palsy and other problems has remained unchanged.
A study found that examining lymph nodes in women with early-stage uterine cancer can prevent unnecessary radiation therapy and improve treatment outcomes. The researchers analyzed data from 144 women diagnosed with grade 1 endometrial cancer, finding that lymph node removal saved patients from unneeded radiation therapy in 22 cases.
Researchers found that varicocele treatment had no significant effect on pregnancy rates among subfertile couples. Despite this, men with varicoceles still experience lower sperm quality and quantity due to testicular damage.
A recent study found that 20% of pregnant women show signs of depression, yet only 13.8% receive mental health counseling or treatment during pregnancy. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and screening to address post-partum depression risks associated with hormone imbalances and fetal exposure.
Mutations in the MSH6 gene occur in at least 1.6 percent of women with endometrial cancer, increasing their risk for developing certain cancers later in life. This study suggests that these mutations may be inherited and recommends genetic testing for family members.
A new six-month study investigates continuous combined oral contraception for its potential to prevent periods easily and safely. The study hopes to show whether breakthrough bleeding ceases in women taking this new regimen.
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center found that chromosomal problems exist within each individual cell, leading to developmental abnormalities. The study suggests that current techniques used for reproductive cloning do not work in nonhuman primates.
The Center for Reproductive Research aims to improve understanding of hormones, receptors, and signaling molecules in female reproduction. Researchers will develop synthetic scaffolds and investigate molecular machines to address diseases associated with reproductive function.
The first International Preeclampsia Summit is being held to bring together experts in the field to discuss ways to intervene and reduce maternal illness and death due to preeclampsia. The summit aims to prioritize appropriate treatment options for this top cause of maternal mortality.
OHSU researchers have created the first animal model for episodic ataxia, a rare form of ataxia that causes patients to appear 'drunk' at times. The model helps understand and treat the disease, including how medication acetazolamide works.
A study found that women with bacterial vaginosis or abnormal vaginal flora had a higher risk of late miscarriage and spontaneous preterm delivery. Treating these conditions with antibiotics may reduce this risk, with the number of women needed to be treated calculated at around ten.
A study published in The Lancet found that same-day testing and treatment led to high rates of compliance with recommended treatment, with 83.2% returning for a follow-up visit. The 'one-stop' approach also improved patient satisfaction, with nearly 98% saying the treatment was equal to or better than expected.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Health System found that medical students who have not yet completed their OB/GYN clerkship place more value on securing consent before performing pelvic examinations under anesthesia. This suggests a decline in the importance of obtaining patient consent for these procedures.
A recent study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that babies born with low amniotic fluid at 37 weeks' gestation have normal birth weights and health, challenging conventional wisdom. The study of 262 women showed no significant differences in birth outcomes between those with low and normal amounts of amniotic fluid.
A recent study conducted at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that weekly injections of the hormone 17-alpha-hydroxprogesterone caproate reduced pre-term birth risk by 34% in high-risk women. The treatment was also shown to be effective in African American and non-African American women.
A recent study by W. Allen Hogge, M.D., found that nearly 56% of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, with higher rates among women over 35. The study recommends regular karyotyping tests after the second loss and more advanced testing only when no genetic abnormality is found.
A recent study found that more than 1 in 10 pregnant women consume alcohol during pregnancy. The research suggests that despite public awareness of the dangers, many women still drink while pregnant. Health care providers may play a crucial role in detecting drinking and providing timely interventions to protect fetal health.
A study by UCSF researchers reveals that the human gene BOULE regulates meiosis in sperm development, a key step in creating sperm and eggs. The finding has significant implications for understanding infertility and developing new treatments, including drugs to assist immature sperm cells or block sperm maturation.
The NIH has awarded nearly $8 million to the University of Pittsburgh and Magee-Womens Research Institute to develop a microbicide barrier to prevent HIV transmission in women. The project aims to create a safe and effective way for women to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Researchers found that tamoxifen stimulation increased mature eggs and embryos compared to natural cycle IVF, with one patient already giving birth to twins. A larger study is planned to include low amounts of FSH for additional benefits.
A study by Dr. David Cumming found significant variation in dilation and curretage (D&C) procedures across Alberta, with some regions experiencing a fivefold increase in rates. Less invasive therapies can accomplish the same goals as D&C, making it an unnecessary procedure for many women, according to the study's findings.
Researchers found a significant correlation between maternal placenta inflammation and infant neurological function decline. The study revealed chorioamnionitis as a key cause of perinatal brain injury, potentially leading to new diagnostic tests and preventive strategies.
The Northwestern SCOR will focus on the role of genes, androgens and intrauterine environment in PCOS. The research aims to elucidate the pathogenesis of PCOS and provide a potential molecular diagnosis for the syndrome.
A new study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that aspirin inhibited ovarian tumor cell growth by as much as 68 percent. Combining aspirin with a monoclonal antibody targeting the HER-2/neu protein resulted in an even greater suppression of growth, decreasing cancer cell growth by 84 percent.
Researchers found that estrogen replacement therapy improved memory performance in rats with ovaries removed, but not when specific cholinergic neurons were destroyed. The study suggests that estrogen may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's-related dementia in postmenopausal women by affecting these neurons.
A study by Jefferson researchers found that women who underwent uterine artery embolization for fibroids were at a higher risk of complications during future pregnancies, including increased rates of premature delivery, miscarriage, postpartum hemorrhage, and cesarean section. The study analyzed 50 published cases and found significant...
A recent clinical trial found that a combination of estrogen and micronized progesterone causes fewer days and less intense bleeding than commonly used hormone replacement therapies. The study suggests that estrogen plus micronized progesterone (MP) may be the form of HRT with the least bleeding and potentially lower health risks.
Researchers from the Pittsburgh Development Center are conducting clinical and pre-clinical studies to investigate genetic components of recurrent miscarriage, normal and abnormal pregnancy, and tobacco smoke exposure's impact on fetal growth. The team aims to track development at the cellular level using non-invasive imaging scans.
The UNC Conte Center will conduct four interrelated studies using distinct research methods to identify critical brain events triggering the development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The center aims to explain how certain behavioral and neurobiological factors transform normal individuals into those with schizophrenia.
A preliminary study found that the peritoneal fluid of women with early-stage endometriosis reduces ciliary beat frequency by around a quarter compared to fertile controls. This reduction may be linked to impaired ciliary action and tubal transport, which could negatively impact fertility.
Physicians must consider ethical obligations when treating patients using alternative medicine, including risks and benefits of therapies. A list of factors to aid risk-benefit analysis has been provided by authors, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and in-depth discussions with patients.
Women with heavy menstrual periods experience significant economic loss due to missed work and lower health ratings. The study estimates that women who miss work because of heavy periods lose approximately $1692 a year.