Articles tagged with Pregnancy
A new study found that gestational carriers have a higher risk of severe complications during pregnancy, early postpartum, and related health issues compared to unassisted or IVF conception. The research analyzed linked health datasets for over 863,000 births in Ontario, Canada, between 2012-2021.
Gestational carriers, also known as pregnancy surrogates, are at a higher risk for severe maternal morbidity, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and postpartum hemorrhage compared to women carrying their own pregnancies. The study found that these risks were nearly twice as high as in unassisted conception pregnancies.
A cohort study found a significant association between maternal influenza infection during pregnancy and an increased risk of childhood seizures. The study suggests that maternal influenza may affect childhood neurological development, particularly for febrile seizures, but not epilepsy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 3.6 million mother-child pairs found that maternal obesity during pregnancy significantly linked with psychiatric and behavioral problems in children later in life, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
A cross-sectional study in California finds that legacies of redlining contribute to increased severe maternal morbidity, highlighting the need for place-based interventions. The study suggests that addressing structural drivers of adverse pregnancy outcomes and racial inequities is crucial.
Researchers identify specific brain area and activity patterns associated with postpartum depression risk in pregnant women. They propose a potential test based on these findings to help detect high-risk individuals.
A nationwide cohort study revealed a higher risk of placental problems, premature births, and severe bleeding in subsequent deliveries following uterine artery embolization. Babies born to mothers who underwent UAE also had a higher chance of major birth defects, particularly heart problems.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that optimizing body mass index (BMI) from preconception to early pregnancy can improve fertility outcomes, including reduced miscarriage risk. The research suggests that maintaining a healthy BMI may be an important strategy for women and men seeking to conceive.
The seasonal influenza vaccine was found to be safe in women with successive pregnancies, regardless of the interpregnancy interval and type of vaccine used. The study's findings support recommendations for vaccinating pregnant individuals or those who may become pregnant during the influenza season.
A Kobe University study found that the widely used casual blood glucose testing method for screening pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus misses 70% of cases. The researchers recommend using more reliable tests to prevent pregnancy complications and type II diabetes in mothers and children.
A recent study found significant therapeutic inertia in the treatment of women with multiple sclerosis (MS), leading to delayed or reduced use of disease-modifying treatments. The research highlights gender disparities that could impact long-term health outcomes for women of childbearing age, particularly due to concerns about pregnanc...
A recent clinical trial found that an IV iron treatment called ferric carboxymaltose works faster and better than oral iron tablets in treating anaemia during pregnancy. The study showed improved haemoglobin levels and iron correction with the IV treatment, with comparable side effects.
Researchers argue that placental pathology is underutilized clinically and deserves routine obstetric and neonatal care, as well as more research attention.
Researchers from Kumamoto University discovered that prostaglandin receptors in the uterus enhance decidualization, a crucial process for successful pregnancy. This finding opens the door to developing new fertility treatments targeting these receptors.
A $3.082M NIH grant will fund research at Wayne State University to investigate the impact of environmental factors on male fertility. The study aims to identify novel biomarkers in seminal plasma and their relation to metabolic exposures and reproductive success, with a focus on phthalate exposure.
A new study found that neighborhoods with fewer opportunities are associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, particularly among Black and Hispanic infants. The study suggests that structural racism and discriminatory practices contribute to this racial gap in preterm birth outcomes.
A study by Radboud University Medical Center found that IVF success rates are the same whether embryos are transferred on day three or five after fertilization. This allows couples to make a personal decision about the timing of embryo transfer with their doctor.
A nationwide multi-cohort study found that residence in low-income-low-food-access neighborhoods during pregnancy or early childhood significantly raises the risk of obesity and severe obesity from childhood to adolescence. The study underscores the importance of early-life neighborhood environments in shaping child health outcomes.
A new NIH-funded study found that children who experienced food insecurity during early childhood or whose mothers experienced it during pregnancy had a higher BMI and increased chance of developing obesity. Researchers explored how neighborhood food access affected child body mass index and obesity over time.
Researchers have created the first map of a human brain over the course of pregnancy, documenting changes in gray and white matter. These findings suggest that the adult brain is capable of undergoing extended periods of neuroplasticity, which may support behavioral adaptations tied to parenting.
Research found that babies born to pregnant women consuming high-fat, high-energy diets are more likely to develop heart problems and diabetes as adults due to fetal damage. Consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy also increases the likelihood of insulin resistance in adulthood.
A new study found a 15% increase in benzodiazepine prescriptions among postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers suggest that the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of postpartum depression and anxiety were exacerbated by the pandemic-induced healthcare crisis.
A new US study found that rapidly controlling blood sugar levels in women with gestational diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of their children developing obesity. The study analyzed data from over 258,000 women and their children, revealing a strong correlation between maternal blood sugar control and childhood obesity risk.
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.
A new study suggests that a history of gestational hypertension is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The study, which involved nearly 400 women, found that those with preeclampsia or eclampsia also had a higher prevalence of heart disease.
A NIH-supported study found that optional emergency department screening increased syphilis diagnosis by 24.4% among nearly 300,000 encounters, particularly among pregnant people. The strategy can help close current healthcare gaps in syphilis diagnosis and treatment.
A large study found that women with asthma are more likely to miscarry and require fertility treatment, but most can still have babies. The study analyzed reproductive outcomes for over 700,000 Danish women, finding higher rates of foetal loss and fertility treatment among those with asthma.
A $15 million gift from Sally Ross Soter will support the Go Red for Women Venture Fund, investing in health companies targeting cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurologic solutions for women. The fund aims to close the gap in women's health investment and translate research into better patient care.
A recent study found that US states with severe abortion restrictions lack comprehensive public infrastructure to support access to reproductive health care and family social services. These states also have limited access to Medicaid insurance and higher rates of uninsured women, exacerbating the lack of medical and social support for...
Research found that maintaining good cardiovascular health during the first trimester of pregnancy can partially mitigate the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study's results suggest that preconception and early pregnancy cardiovascular health counseling is crucial for preventing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Research published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that pregnant women with higher levels of PFAS during pregnancy were more likely to experience obesity and heart health issues later in life. Women with lower PFAS levels had healthier cardiometabolic outcomes at age 50.
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.
A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a correlation between high temperatures in the final week of pregnancy and an increased risk of stillbirth and early neonatal mortality. High temperatures were associated with a 34% higher risk of perinatal death, which doubled during the six hottest months of the year.
A study at the European Society of Cardiology Congress found that an AI-enabled digital stethoscope helped doctors identify twice as many cases of pregnancy-related heart failure compared to a control group. The tool was 12 times more likely to flag heart pump weakness, leading to better diagnosis and potentially life-saving treatment.
A study found that ketamine clinics have inconsistent policies on pregnancy-related safeguards, including inadequate warning systems and contraception prescription. This is concerning given the potential harm of ketamine to developing fetuses.
A new systematic review and meta-analysis found a slight increase in ADHD risk and heightened vulnerability to cannabis consumption in children exposed to cannabis in utero. The study suggests caution when it comes to cannabis use during pregnancy, highlighting the need for continued research into long-term effects.
A new study found that Medicaid Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in Massachusetts increased prenatal and postpartum office visits, postpartum depression screenings, and timely postpartum care. This value-based model of care addressed inequities in healthcare access for pregnant and postpartum people covered by Medicaid.
Researchers found a pregnant porbeagle shark was likely killed by a great white shark, highlighting the complexity of shark interactions. The study used satellite tags to track the shark's movements before it stopped transmitting, indicating it had been hunted and eaten.
A new study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that consuming fish during pregnancy was associated with a lower likelihood of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, particularly in females. The study also found no significant association between omega-3 supplements and autism diagnosis.
A study published in The Lancet found that starting medical abortion at home is as safe as in a hospital, with 71% of participants able to be treated as day patients. The procedure also promotes patient autonomy and can reduce healthcare costs.
A randomized controlled trial found that administering the first dose of misoprostol at home reduces hospital stay time by 71% and improves patient satisfaction. Women who took misoprostol at home also reported feeling more autonomous during a stressful process.
A new study analyzing maternal mortality data finds that COVID-19, not restrictive abortion laws, drove a decline in maternal deaths after the Dobbs decision. The researchers adjusted for statistical artifacts from the pandemic to reveal a more accurate picture of maternal mortality trends.
Research reveals that maternal prenatal smoking can limit a child's academic performance and put them behind their peers at school. The systematic review of 19 studies and 1.25 million participants found that 79% of studies reported reduced academic achievement in children exposed to maternal prenatal smoking.
A new study by UCSF estimates that 3 to 5% of women who undergo tubal sterilization experience unplanned pregnancies within a year. This contradicts the common perception of tubal surgery as a permanent form of birth control. The researchers suggest using alternative methods like IUDs or arm implants for more effective contraception.
A uniform lexicon has been developed and endorsed by a multi-medical society panel to describe observations on ultrasound during the first trimester of pregnancy. The new terms aim to minimize bias, clarify findings, and respect patient preferences.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that routine prenatal iron supplementation has no significant impact on maternal or infant health outcomes. Clinicians can now inform decisions around iron supplement use with individualized prenatal care, considering a patient's unique symptoms and history.
The USPSTF finds that iron deficiency is the leading cause of anemia during pregnancy, affecting approximately 18% of pregnant individuals. Routine screening and supplementation are not recommended to prevent adverse maternal and infant health outcomes.
Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that even light smoking of 1-2 cigarettes a day before or during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of major newborn health issues. The study analyzed data from over 12 million mother-infant pairs and found that women who smoked had higher risks of neona...
A study in mice found that the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve supports healthy brain development in fetuses, improving nutrient transport and cell processes. This discovery suggests using probiotics during pregnancy may support fetal brain health and future treatments for growth restriction could focus on maternal gut health.
Researchers analyzed national Medicaid data to identify perinatal and postpartum outcomes among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Autistic pregnant people had significantly higher probability of postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression compared to other groups.
A new study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that probiotics can improve the immune system and behavior of both mothers and their offspring during pregnancy. Probiotics may also help counteract negative effects of prenatal stress, such as changes in brain inflammation and amino acid metabolism.
A new vaccine has shown to protect mothers from malaria during pregnancy and for up to two transmission seasons without booster doses. The vaccine was well-tolerated and safe for both the mothers and their offspring, with no differences in adverse events compared to placebo.
A malaria vaccine candidate has demonstrated sustained protection against parasite infection and clinical malaria over two years without a booster dose. The vaccine significantly protected women from malaria in pregnancy, offering new strategies to prevent the disease in vulnerable populations.
A new study provides first-of-its-kind data on the pharmacokinetics and safety of intravenous remdesivir in treating SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in pregnant women. The research reveals that no dose adjustments are necessary for remdesivir when used in pregnant women, with no safety concerns or adverse pregnancy outcomes identified.
Pregnant women exposed to buprenorphine combined with naloxone had similar or more favorable outcomes compared to those exposed to buprenorphine alone. This suggests that both formulations are safe treatment options for opioid use disorder during pregnancy.
After two major health policy shifts, pregnant and postpartum women with depression and anxiety received slightly more psychotherapy and paid less out-of-pocket costs. Despite the positive trends, only about 10% of women with private insurance received psychotherapy in 2019 to 2020.
A new multi-site randomized-controlled study evaluates an innovative healthy relationships program for teens. The study found the program may have influenced abstinence but not relationship communication, highlighting the need for tailored program components to address unique environmental contexts.
A new study by the Complexity Science Hub estimates that the ongoing war in Ukraine could lead to up to 180,000 additional cases of type 2 diabetes worldwide due to supply chain disruptions and food shortages. Malnutrition during early pregnancy is also linked to increased risk of developing diabetes later in life.
A University of Oklahoma researcher is investigating how prenatal inflammation increases the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and autism. She hopes to find a way to promote fetal resilience to inflammation using antioxidants like PQQ.
A new study found that living near areas where pesticides were used during the first trimester of pregnancy or pre-conception increases the risk of stillbirths. Researchers linked pesticide use records to state birth certificate data and found specific chemicals, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids, to be associated with increased...