Gestational Age
Articles tagged with Gestational Age
Treatment of rare childhood epilepsy could begin before birth
Researchers suggest treatment could start during pregnancy to prevent brain damage and reduce neurological harm. A new RNA-based therapy reduces abnormal electrical currents in patient-derived excitatory neurons.
Air pollution exposure in the womb linked to worse language and motor development
A study by King's College London found that babies exposed to high levels of air pollution in the womb show slower signs of development at 18 months compared to those exposed to lower levels. This is particularly true for premature babies, who experience poorer motor and language skills.
Study finds link between low birthweight and increased stroke risk in young adults, independent of BMI and gestational age
Researchers found a 21% increased risk of all stroke events for individuals with low birthweight compared to those above median weight. Low birthweight was also linked to increased risks of ischemic and intracerebral hemorrhage strokes, independent of gestational age and BMI.
Pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection
The study found that women with pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection (P-SCAD) have a higher risk of cardiovascular events, including dissections and aneurysms. Women with P-SCAD also experienced less recovery in left ventricular ejection fraction compared to those without P-SCAD.
Ultra-processed foods are linked to reduced fertility and embryonic development
Eating ultra-processed foods is associated with slower embryo growth, smaller yolk sacs, and increased subfertility risk. Reducing UPF consumption around conception and pregnancy may improve fertility outcomes for both parents and embryos.
Senescence behind the aggressive nature of postpartum breast cancer
A study reveals that senescence plays a paradoxical role in postpartum breast cancer, promoting tumor formation while also aiding tissue repair. Targeting senescent cells during mammary gland involution could potentially reduce the risk of this form of cancer.
Joint and independent associations of gestational diabetes and depression with childhood obesity
Cohort study finds prenatal depression and gestational diabetes independently increase childhood obesity risk, while children exposed to both face the greatest risk, highlighting need for universal screening and targeted interventions.
SSRI medication during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of gestational diabetes but may protect against preterm birth
Research finds that SSRIs during pregnancy increase gestational diabetes risk in newborns but lower preterm birth and low birth weight risks. SSRIs also associated with breathing problems and neonatal care needs in newborns.
Adolescent and young adult requests for medication abortion through online telemedicine
The study found increased requests for medication abortion among adolescents in states with gestational bans and parental consent requirements. Young adults also sought more medication abortion services post-Dobbs, with the highest demand in states with restrictive abortion laws.
CBD treatment reverses key effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in a mouse model
A preclinical study shows that cannabidiol restores emotional behavior, reduces alcohol-related vulnerability, and reverses gut microbiota alterations caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Female mice particularly benefited from CBD treatment, which normalized their emotional alterations and eliminated vulnerability to alcohol addiction.
Air pollution exposure and birth weight
A cohort study found higher fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure associated with lower birth weight, particularly in early and mid-pregnancy. The study's findings suggest that understanding windows of susceptibility to environmental exposures can inform strategies for limiting exposure during critical periods.
Targeted oxygen for initial resuscitation of preterm infants
A recent study published in JAMA found that initiating resuscitation of preterm infants with fraction of inspired oxygen levels of 0.6 versus 0.3 did not affect the risk of death or brain injury by 36 weeks' corrected gestational age.
Gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes after GLP-1 receptor agonist discontinuation
A study found that women with obesity who stopped using GLP-1 receptor agonists experienced more gestational weight gain and a higher risk of preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive disorders. The research suggests that discontinuation of these medications may impact pregnancy outcomes.
Pennington Biomedical’s Dr. Leanne Redman recruited to lead the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney
Dr. Leanne Redman joins the Charles Perkins Centre to lead research on obesity, diet, and exercise, building on her extensive experience in women's health issues and translational research. With over 300 publications and numerous awards, she will expand the centre's impact on global health.
A husband’s self-esteem may protect against preterm births, study finds
A new study from University of California Merced found that married fathers' optimism and confidence can lower maternal inflammation during pregnancy, leading to longer gestation periods. Higher paternal resilience also predicted healthier fetal development.
Stillbirths in the U.S. higher than previously reported, often occur with no clinical risk factors
A new Harvard study found that US stillbirth rates are higher than previously reported, with many cases having no identified clinical risk factor. The study highlights the need for improved stillbirth risk prediction and prevention efforts.
Adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term risk of atrial fibrillation
A large national cohort study found associations between adverse pregnancy outcomes and increased risk of atrial fibrillation up to 46 years later. Women with these outcomes require early preventive actions and long-term clinical follow-up.
Antenatal corticosteroids and infectious diseases throughout childhood
Full-term children exposed to antenatal corticosteroids are at higher risk of infections until age 21, a new study finds. Preterm children, however, show no association between ACS and infections.
Stowers scientists identify the fusion point of Robertsonian chromosomes, hinting at how chromosomes evolve
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the precise location where human chromosomes break and recombine to form Robertsonian chromosomes. The study reveals that repetitive DNA sequences play a central role in genome organization and evolution, explaining how these rearrangements form and remain stable.
Global study reveals alarming gaps in maternal health across Australia, USA, and UK
The global study found that women are having babies later in life, increasing health risks and widening inequalities in maternal care. The average age of first-time mothers has steadily increased, with many now starting their families aged 35 years or over.
Research reveals STIs during pregnancy linked to adverse birth complications
A large-scale study found strong links between maternal infections and adverse outcomes in babies born in Australia's Northern Territory. Congenital syphilis tripled the risk of preterm birth, while gonorrhoea increased the risk of stillbirth. The study highlights the need for more changes in STI testing during pregnancy.
How babies are affected by their mother’s age
Children of older mothers are more likely to be born prematurely or with complications. The study found that babies born to mothers 45 years and older had the highest risks of stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight compared to younger mothers.
New USC study links wildfire smoke exposure and heat stress to adverse birth outcomes
A recent USC study found associations between increased exposure to wildfire smoke and heat stress during preconception and the first trimester with the odds of having a small-for-gestational-age infant. Living in a climate-vulnerable neighborhood can increase these risks, particularly for women exposed to heat stress.
Prenatal cannabis use and neonatal outcomes
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that prenatal cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. The research also suggests a potential link between cannabis use during pregnancy and smaller-than-average newborns.
Evidence review raises concern about cannabis use in pregnancy
A systematic review found a moderate risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and infant death associated with cannabis use during pregnancy. Researchers recommend reducing cannabis use as a harm-reduction approach to mitigate risks.
Gestational age and cognitive development in childhood
A cross-sectional study found that moderately preterm birth was associated with long-term cognitive problems. The study highlights the need for continued follow-up of all preterm children, particularly those born before 34 weeks' gestational age.
WVU researchers find babies born to teen mothers are smaller, weigh less
Researchers at West Virginia University found that babies born to teen mothers weigh less and are smaller for their gestational age. The study highlights the role of social, geographical, and educational factors in teen pregnancy prevention.
Study probes how to predict complications from preeclampsia
Researchers analyzed data from 8,843 women with preeclampsia to evaluate the performance of existing risk prediction models. The study found that these models are most accurate only in the days following diagnosis and deteriorate over time.
Radon exposure and gestational diabetes
A cohort study found that individuals with higher radon exposure are at a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. The study suggests a potential link between radon exposure and metabolic health in nulliparous pregnant women.
Gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia and future neurological disorders
A new study finds that women with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are at increased risk of developing new-onset migraine, headache, epilepsy, sleep disorder, or mental fatigue after giving birth. Follow-up care is recommended for these high-risk patients to monitor for neurological symptoms.
Racial and ethnic differences in outcomes of neonates born at less than 30 weeks’ gestation
New research reveals racial differences in mortality rates, with Black newborns facing higher risks of necrotizing enterocolitis and late-onset sepsis. Addressing social determinants of health is critical for promoting health equity in hospital outcomes.
Physical activity during pregnancy and preterm birth among women with gestational diabetes
Women with gestational diabetes who engaged in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity during pregnancy had a lower risk of preterm birth compared to those who were less active. Concentrated periods of physical activity also offered similar benefits in reducing preterm birth risk.
Short-term and long-term mortality risk after preterm birth
A population-based matched cohort study found that preterm birth is associated with higher mortality risks until the third and fourth decades of life. These findings suggest that preterm birth should be recognized as a risk factor for mortality, informing preventive strategies.
Air pollution exposure during early life can have lasting effects on the brain’s white matter
A large cohort study found that early exposure to air pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen oxides can alter the development of white matter in the brain, with some effects persisting throughout adolescence.
Inexpensive drug can prevent cerebral palsy in premature babies
A recent Cochrane review confirms that giving women at risk of premature birth a simple magnesium sulphate infusion can prevent their babies from developing cerebral palsy. The drug costs approximately £5 (~$6.50) per dose and has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2015.
Strictest abortion-ban states offer least family support
A Northwestern University study reveals that states with severe post-Dobbs abortion restrictions also lack policies to support families, particularly those of low socioeconomic status and marginalized individuals. The authors argue that advocates should leverage child protection arguments to advocate for improved family welfare policies.
Diagnostic accuracy of an integrated AI tool to estimate gestational age from blind ultrasound sweeps
A novel AI tool has been shown to accurately estimate gestational age from blind ultrasound sweeps, comparable to expert sonographers. The technology has the potential to democratize prenatal care in resource-limited settings by expanding access to quality diagnostic tools without the need for expensive equipment or specialized training.
Prenatal exposure to ethylene oxide associated with lower birth weight and head circumference in newborns
A study of 1,106 newborns from five countries found that prenatal exposure to ethylene oxide is associated with lower birth weight and smaller head circumference. The results suggest that reducing exposure to ethylene oxide could protect fetal health and improve birth outcomes.
Study on fruit flies could benefit eggs of older women
Researchers at Dartmouth College found that fruit fly oocytes can renew chromosome-linking proteins, potentially helping older women reduce pregnancy complications. The discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies for enhancing protein rejuvenation in human eggs.
Abortion provision and delays to care in a clinic network in Washington state after Dobbs
After the Dobbs ruling, more people traveled from out of state for abortion care. In-state patients waited a week longer to receive care. These findings can inform access-improving interventions and policies.
Overuse of antibiotics in newborns with suspected sepsis
A Swedish study published in JAMA Network Open found that over one million newborns were given unnecessary antibiotics for suspected sepsis despite a reduction in sepsis cases. The researchers argue that the treatment burden is too high, suggesting potential to reduce antibiotic use.
Adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term mortality in women
A national cohort study of over 2 million Swedish women found that those experiencing five major adverse pregnancy outcomes had significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the importance of early preventive evaluation and long-term follow-up for detection and treatment of chronic disorders associated with premature morta...
Neighborhood-level poverty and food insecurity during pregnancy associated with lower birthweight and small for gestational age infants, NIH study finds
A recent NIH study found that living in low-income neighborhoods with limited food access during pregnancy is associated with lower birthweight and higher odds of babies born small for gestational age. However, individual food insecurity was not linked to birth outcomes.
Association of prenatal vitamins and metals with epigenetic aging at birth and in childhood
Researchers found associations between prenatal vitamin and metal exposures and epigenetic aging biomarkers in early life. A one standard deviation increase in essential metals was associated with lower Horvath EAA at birth, while arsenic was linked to greater EAA at birth and in childhood.
Autoimmune disease and pregnancy
A study published in Lancet eClinical Health found pregnancy outcomes for pregnant individuals with autoimmune disease vary greatly depending on the specific condition and individual factors. Research highlights the importance of considering comorbidities when discussing autoimmune disease and pregnancy.
When lab-trained AI meets the real world, ‘mistakes can happen’
A new study by Northwestern University found that lab-trained AI models are easily misled by tissue contaminants, resulting in errors in diagnoses and vessel damage detection. The researchers suggest improving the problem of quantifying and addressing biological impurities in AI models to enhance accuracy.
Climate change could be impacting babies’ birthweight for gestational age
A large-scale study found exposure to low and high biothermal stress during pregnancy linked to a higher risk of babies being born too small or large for their gestational ages. The study also identified specific subpopulations at higher risk, including non-Caucasian people and those aged 35 and above.
Use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes during late pregnancy among adolescents
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed data from 10,000 US adolescents and found a significant increase in e-cigarette use during late pregnancy. However, the study revealed no statistically significant association between e-cigarette use and an increased risk of small-for-gestational-age birth among adolescents.
Pregnant women are missing vital nutrients needed for them and their babies – and situation could worsen with plant-based foods
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that 90% of pregnant women in high-income countries lack key vitamins necessary for healthy pregnancies and fetal development. The situation is expected to worsen as more people adopt plant-based diets, leading to increased risk of nutrient deficiencies.
Gestational age and birth outcomes in term singleton pregnancies conceived with infertility treatment
Researchers found that delivering at 39 weeks reduced perinatal risk in term singleton pregnancies conceived through infertility treatment. This study suggests a specific gestational age for optimal birth outcomes in these cases.
Association between gestational age and academic achievement of children born at term
A study of over 500,000 children found no significant difference in math and reading scores between those born between 39-40 weeks' gestation and 41 weeks' gestation. The results inform decisions on delivery timing at term birth and long-term cognitive development.
Fathers’ psychiatric diagnosis increases risk of preterm birth
A new analysis of Swedish birth records found that fathers' psychiatric diagnoses increase the risk of preterm birth, with risks higher for infants whose parents have both diagnoses. The study suggests that additional social support and prenatal care may help mitigate this risk.
Neighborhood food environment and birth weight outcomes in New York City
A recent study of 106,000 births in New York City found that neighborhoods with healthier food options had lower rates of small for gestational age births. Higher densities of unhealthy food retail establishments were linked to increased risks of large or small-for-age birth weights.
THE LANCET: An estimated one million stillbirths and newborn baby deaths could be prevented each year by implementing low-cost pregnancy interventions in low- and middle-income countries
Eight low-cost interventions can prevent an estimated 566,000 stillbirths and 5.2 million babies born preterm or small for gestational age each year. Implementing these interventions in 81 low- and middle-income countries could save the lives of millions of babies and improve long-term health outcomes.
ARRS Annual Meeting: 3D SVR MRI helps delineate fetal optic nerve pathway
A novel technique of three-dimensional (3D) slice-to-volume (SVR) MRI allows for precise delineation and measurement of the fetal optic pathway (FOP). The study found that FOP was visualized in 9 cases in unprocessed fetal MRIs, compared to 55 cases in 3D SVR images.
Tax on sugary drinks helps health during pregnancy
A new study by UC San Francisco found that taxes on sugary drinks lower the risk of gestational diabetes, unhealthy weight gain, and small-for-gestational-age babies. The study analyzed over 5 million pregnant women and found a significant reduction in these health risks.
Iron & the brain: Where and when neurodevelopmental disabilities may begin during pregnancy
A study found that gestational iron deficiency may contribute to cognitive impairments like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Researchers identified a specific embryonic neuronal progenitor cell target for GID, which disrupts interneuron development.
Common pregnancy complications may slow development of infant in the womb, study finds
A new study found that babies exposed to preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in the womb were biologically younger than their chronologic age. The researchers used DNA samples from over 1,800 newborns to evaluate each infant's epigenetic age and compared it to their chronological age at birth.
New study reveals pregnant people who deliver large babies are at increased risk of developing diabetes later in life
A new study found that pregnant individuals who give birth to large-for-gestational-age (LGA) babies are at a higher risk of developing prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes 10-14 years after childbirth. Researchers analyzed data from the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Follow-up Study, which revealed a significant association bet...