Researchers at UC San Diego have found that the health risks to pregnant women with a history of Kawasaki disease (KD) are low with proper management and care. The study, published in British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, also notes that the long-term risk for adults with KD is not known.
A recent study found that reproductive coercion and co-occurring intimate partner violence are prevalent among women in this demographic. The study's results suggest that healthcare providers should address reproductive coercion with their patients, tailoring family planning discussions and recommendations accordingly.
A clinical opinion published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests that maternal oxygen supplementation during labor may not benefit the fetus and could be harmful. The authors recommend reserving oxygen for mothers with hypoxia only, pending further research.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that oral garlic did not provide significant relief for women with vaginal thrush. The research involved 63 women who took either garlic tablets or a placebo for two weeks, with no notable reduction in Candida levels observed.
A study found that attendance at clinical and tutorial-based activities by medical students is positively correlated with overall examination scores. Students who attended more than 80% of these activities received distinction grades, indicating they met additional standards for competence.
A 15-year study found human error is the most common cause of infant asphyxiation at birth in Norway, with 50% attributed to poor fetal monitoring. The study suggests training for midwives and obstetricians, along with high-quality audits, could help reduce compensation claims after birth asphyxia.
Scientists have created a mouse model that may reveal useful targets for new adenomyosis treatments. The model is based on the beta-catenin protein, which causes changes in cells leading to the disease.
A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that birth defects and poor fetal growth are the most common risk factors for cerebral palsy and infant death. The research suggests that these risk factors, rather than asphyxial birth events, may contribute to the development of cerebral palsy and infant mortality.
A high-fat diet fed to pregnant rats for 20 days resulted in preeclampsia-like syndromes and increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 in the rat hippocampus. This finding suggests that controlling fat intake may be crucial in preventing pregnancy-induced eclampsia.
A new study published in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reveals that ethnicity-based birth weight charts are more accurate than traditional population-based standards. These charts can help identify small but healthy babies, reducing parental anxiety and unnecessary healthcare costs.
The University of North Carolina will assist the President's Maternal Health and Safe Motherhood Initiative by designing maternity homes, training healthcare providers, and establishing a residency program. The grant aims to reduce maternal and infant deaths in Malawi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world.
Women who give birth vaginally are at increased risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse during the year after delivery. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when connective tissue, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels are damaged, leading to complications such as urinary incontinence and bowel control.
A UCLA study found that women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) who take antihistamines are more likely to experience bad outcomes, including low birth weight babies and premature births. The study also showed that these medications are not effective in treating HG symptoms
A new non-invasive prenatal test detecting fetal DNA in pregnant women's blood accurately identifies Down's syndrome and other genetic abnormalities. Routine screening using this test is superior to current methods, offering a reliable alternative for early detection.
Researchers at UCLA have isolated a new population of pluripotent stem cells, called Multi-lineage Stress-Enduring (Muse-AT) cells, from fat tissue that can differentiate into virtually every cell type in the human body. These cells are stress-resistant and may even be activated by severe stress, making them potentially superior source...
A Saint Louis University study found that obese women who lost weight between pregnancies were more likely to have normal-sized babies. This weight loss period provides a unique opportunity for behavior change and counseling from healthcare professionals.
A recent survey of US obstetrics and gynecology residents found that fewer than one in five receives formal training in menopause medicine. The study suggests that ob/gyn residency programs need to address this training gap, as the number of menopausal women is expected to increase due to an aging population.
Researchers found that an interpersonal-based intervention program reduced the incidence of PPD by 50% among adolescent mothers. The REACH program, delivered over five one-hour sessions during pregnancy and postpartum, improved communication skills and helped girls manage stress, develop a support system, and set goals.
A new review highlights the need for additional legislation and guidelines for surrogate pregnancies in modern obstetrics. The lack of clear guidance puts women, babies, and parents at risk of exploitation, making it essential for healthcare professionals to have practical advice on managing these cases.
Despite a decline in spontaneous stillbirths, stillbirth rates in British Columbia, Canada, have increased by 31% over the past decade, according to a study published in CMAJ. The increase was mainly due to prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy terminations of fetuses with congenital anomalies.
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals that patients with low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum can experience tumor stabilization or shrinkage after taking a regular dose of selumetinib. This breakthrough discovery offers new possibilities for treating previously chemoresistant tumors.
A USC study finds that progestin-releasing long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) devices may pose a slight negative impact on metabolic markers, raising the risk for type 2 diabetes in healthy, obese reproductive-age women. The research concludes that LARC appears safe but merits further investigation.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that two-thirds of mothers with sick babies in Ghana are at risk of postpartum depression. This condition can lead to poor infant growth and nutrition, as well as increased mortality rates for both mothers and babies.
Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have identified a key link between stem cell factors that fuel ovarian cancer's growth and patient prognosis. The study reveals a connection between Lin28 and BMP4, which has implications for developing novel targeted therapies.
A nationwide survey of obstetricians and gynecologists found that many doctors perform routine pelvic exams in low-risk women due to misconceptions about ovarian cancer screening. The study suggests that the exams may be performed for non-clinical reasons, such as reassurance or expectation, rather than medical necessity.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology challenges the benefits of planned home birth, citing higher rates of unexpected complications, emergency transports, and perinatal mortality. The authors argue that a hospital-based approach can provide a safer and more satisfying experience for patients.
Researchers found evidence of worsened pregnancy outcomes with SSRI antidepressants, no benefits, and increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and congenital abnormalities. The study suggests prescribing these medications with caution and counseling for women trying to get pregnant.
The UMSOM dean and co-author argue that changes to diagnostic criteria could dramatically increase the number of women identified with gestational diabetes, placing a burden on healthcare systems. They advise caution before revising guidelines due to potential risks and costs.
Researchers at OHSU have successfully demonstrated a new gene therapy method that can replace mutated mitochondrial DNA with healthy copies in human cells. This breakthrough has the potential to prevent devastating diseases passed from mother to infant.
A new study found that providing free birth control reduced unplanned pregnancies and cut abortion rates by 62-78%. Most women chose long-acting methods like IUDs or implants, which have lower failure rates than commonly used birth control pills. The study enrolled 9,256 women and adolescents in the St. Louis area between 2007 and 2011.
The study found that obstructive sleep apnea is associated with higher rates of preeclampsia, cesarean deliveries, and NICU admissions. Women with sleep apnea were more likely to deliver babies with respiratory distress, highlighting the need for better screening and treatment during pregnancy.
Researchers found that continuous oral contraceptive pills provide earlier relief for moderate to severe menstrual cramps, reducing symptoms by up to six months. Women taking the continuous treatment reported significant pain relief due to uninterrupted treatment, outperforming cyclic treatment in terms of pain relief timing.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that vaginal delivery is comparable to cesarean delivery for early preterm births presenting head first. However, breech presentations resulted in high failure rates and significantly lower neonatal mortality with planned cesarean delivery.
Researchers at Wayne State University are working on a new technique to analyze fetal chromosomes in the first trimester, which could lead to healthier outcomes for mothers and babies. The approach involves collecting placental cells from the cervix using a safe and non-invasive method.
Researchers at WashU Medicine found that administering antibiotics before cesarean section surgery cuts infection rates in half. The study, published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, followed over 8,000 women and found significant reductions in surgical site infections after policy change.
Researchers at Northwestern University have identified the molecular trigger of uterine fibroids, a single stem cell mutation that activates other cells to grow uncontrollably. The study suggests a new direction for developing therapies to treat these tumors, which affect an estimated 15 million women in the US.
Dr. Joshua A. Copel, a renowned expert in maternal and fetal medicine, will receive the William J. Fry Memorial Lecture Award. He has significantly contributed to the scientific progress of medical ultrasound through his innovative research efforts.
The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) recognized outstanding achievements in medical ultrasound at the 2012 Annual Convention. Awards were presented to individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth and scientific progress of medical ultrasound.
Researchers call for ob-gyns to evaluate patients' exposure to environmental chemicals, provide education, and advocate for policy change to reduce toxic exposures. The human reproductive system is vulnerable to biological changes caused by chemicals during critical periods of development.
A study by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine found that women who deliver or intend to deliver outside of hospitals have a lower risk of obstetric intervention. However, newborns intended for home births are at a higher risk of neonatal seizures compared to hospital births.
A study found that Hispanic women living in the US for less than 10 years have a 3.4% frequency of preterm birth, while those living for 10 or more years have twice the risk and 7.4% frequency. This suggests environmental factors may contribute to preterm birth and are potentially modifiable.
A new study by researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that infants born via cesarean section had a higher risk of respiratory distress syndrome compared to those delivered vaginally. The study, which analyzed birth data from 1995-2003, challenged the long-held assumption that cesarean delivery is safer for high-risk pregnancies.
A study found that pregnant women with a prior cesarean section often choose the delivery method preferred by their doctor, regardless of their own knowledge on the risks and benefits. The majority of these women opt for an elective repeat cesarean over a trial of labor, despite its higher success rate. Lack of education and provider p...
A nationwide study has found that chromosomal microarray testing detects additional genetic abnormalities in about 1 in 70 normal karyotype samples and 6% of cases with structural abnormalities. The new test may soon replace standard karyotyping for prenatal testing, providing more information on potential disorders.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that the Early Start program reduces maternal and neonatal morbidity and stillbirths, resulting in an average net cost benefit of $5.9 million annually. The program's accessibility to patients and integration with prenatal care significantly contribute to its success.
A landmark study found that vaginal progesterone significantly reduced the rate of preterm birth by 42% and neonatal morbidity and mortality in women with a short cervix. The treatment also decreased respiratory distress syndrome and the need for mechanical ventilation.
Fetal tracheal occlusion significantly improves infant survival in severe cases of CDH by enhancing pulmonary growth, increasing survival rates from less than 5% to about 50%. The study establishes FETO as standard care for severe forms of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
A comprehensive training program for healthcare staff significantly reduced adverse events, including birth trauma, by more than half. The two-year study also showed improved staff perceptions of safety, patient satisfaction, and documentation rates.
A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that hysterectomies increase the risk of early menopause among younger women. The research tracked over 900 women for five years and found that 14.8% experienced menopause, compared to 8% of healthy controls.
A new study published in European Obstetrics & Gynaecology shows that DuoFertility's monitoring and support service can achieve pregnancy rates comparable to IVF for many infertile couples. This viable, non-invasive alternative could save the NHS millions of pounds each year.
Research published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that current definitions for miscarriage diagnosis can lead to incorrect diagnoses. The studies also revealed a 20% variation in gestational sac sizes reported by different clinicians, which can cause false conclusions about pregnancy growth.
A new study will assess the effectiveness of Project REACH, a prenatal intervention designed to prevent postpartum depression in adolescent mothers. The program focuses on strengthening social relationships and encouraging support, with a goal of reducing symptoms before they occur.
A new study found that fear of childbirth is a predisposing factor for emergency and elective cesarean sections. The research analyzed 353 women with fear of childbirth and 579 without the condition, revealing a higher incidence of traumatic deliveries and induced inductions.
Medical students who practiced on a patient simulator before assisting in real-life vaginal deliveries scored significantly higher on their final examinations. Simulation training increased student confidence and effectiveness in performing vaginal delivery maneuvers.
Women with breastfeeding difficulties in the first two weeks after giving birth are more likely to experience postpartum depression at two months, according to a new study. The study found that women who disliked breastfeeding and those with severe breast pain were at higher risk of depression.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found an accelerated hepatitis B vaccination schedule to be effective and well-tolerated in high-risk pregnant women. The study's findings suggest that a shortened 12-week vaccine regimen can provide long-term immunity and is comparable to the standard 6-month adult schedule.
A recent Yale study examining the rise in cesarean births found that a significant proportion of the increase was due to slow progress in labor and fetal heart rate concerns. The researchers also discovered that suspected large infants, twin pregnancies, and preeclampsia contributed to the increase despite stable rates in the population.
Cervical ripening in preterm and term births has distinct processes, with preterm ripening caused by inflammation-induced changes and not an acceleration of the physiologic process. The study aims to determine effective therapies for each cause of preterm birth.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that urinary incontinence after giving birth doubles a woman's risk of developing postpartum depression. The study, which evaluated nearly 1,900 new mothers, identified five key predictors of postpartum depression, including urinary incontinence.
A blood test for AMH can help predict IVF success, with women having higher AMH levels yielding more eggs and a higher rate of pregnancy. The study found that women with low AMH levels had an average of six eggs harvested, while those with higher levels had around 20.