Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A Swedish study found a significant decrease in infant mortality and morbidity among babies born after 41 weeks of gestation. The study showed a 47% reduction in stillbirths or infant deaths within four weeks, with researchers attributing the improvement to routine induction practices.
A nationwide Swedish study found that active management and induction of labor in late- and postterm pregnancies significantly reduced the risk of stillbirth and newborn death before 28 days. The study, published in PLOS Medicine, showed a near halving of this risk, suggesting improved maternal and perinatal outcomes.
The MedStar Health D.C. Safe Babies Safe Moms program has been found to have better pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum outcomes for patients cared for by the program compared to those receiving prenatal care elsewhere. Additionally, the study shows a significant reduction in low birthweight babies and preterm births among Black patients
A new Northwestern University study reveals that achieving equity in social drivers of health, particularly education, can nearly eliminate the gap in heart health between Black and white women. The study found that educational attainment had the largest impact on maternal cardiovascular health disparities. Improving access to healthy ...
Exposure to air pollution during the three months before pregnancy is associated with higher childhood obesity risk up to two years after birth. The study found that women with higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10 had children with a higher BMI and related obesity risk factors.
Gaps in maternal health care for pregnant women in UK prisons are due to barriers, say experts. Improved provision is needed to protect the health of pregnant women and their babies while incarcerated.
A restrictive episiotomy policy implemented in France has led to a decrease in episiotomy rates and anal sphincter injuries during labor. However, further research is necessary to determine the optimal rate of episiotomies and assess potential risks to specific subgroups.
A new Australian study found that IVF pregnancies had the highest exposure to teratogenic medicines during the first trimester, compared to naturally conceived pregnancies. The risk was linked to medications used as additional treatment following ART to prevent repeat miscarriages or failed implantation.
A new national survey by Orlando Health finds that 56% of Americans are unaware that bariatric surgery is an effective way to improve fertility. Bariatric surgery has been shown to regulate hormones and normalize menstrual cycles, increasing a woman's chances of conception. The study highlights the connection between obesity and infert...
A new study by the University of East Anglia found that rewards and financial incentives are highly effective in helping people quit smoking, particularly pregnant women. The research showed that for every 100 people who received financial incentives, 10 were likely to successfully quit smoking at six months or longer.
A Cochrane review found financial incentives significantly improve smoking cessation rates for pregnant people, with a six-month success rate of 13 out of 100 who received incentives compared to six in 100 without them. The study also suggests that offering different value rewards does not impact quit rates.
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.
Researchers found associations between gender-based racial microaggressions and higher blood pressure postpartum, particularly in the later period. Microaggressions experienced during pregnancy and delivery may lead to increased systolic blood pressure.
Researchers in Kenya, Norway, and Denmark are collaborating on a project to develop and test an improved dietary supplement for pregnant women. The goal is to reduce incidences of low birth weight, improve maternal and child health, and enhance growth and cognitive development in children. The new supplement, MMS+, will include additio...
A recent study found that pregnant individuals with opioid use disorder enrolled in Medicaid are at a disproportionately high risk of severe maternal morbidity. Targeted interventions, such as early Medicaid enrollment and coverage continuity, may be necessary to reduce adverse outcomes in this group.
The new guidelines aim to reduce trauma and delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy. Led by Dr Georgia Mills and Dr Gisele Kidson-Gerber, the guidelines provide a practical guide for doctors, including recommendations for diagnosis, staging, imaging safety, therapy, and supportive care.
A cohort study found a strong association between prenatal exposure to systemic glucocorticoids and an increased risk of certain mental disorders in children. The study suggests that continued caution is necessary when using glucocorticoids during pregnancy, given the potential long-term effects on offspring mental health.
A study found that persistent short sleep duration from pregnancy to 2-7 years after delivery is associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. The researchers suggest exploring sleep-targeted interventions for improved cardiometabolic health, particularly among high-risk populations.
Switzerland is affected by Chagas disease, a tropical disease that can cause severe cardiac and digestive complications if left untreated. The Swiss government has established the Swiss Chagas Network to address this issue through coordinated measures.
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.
A new study reveals that pregnant and postpartum individuals often have low-quality diets, which can impact their short- and long-term health outcomes. The study found that lower-income women and those with higher body mass indexes tend to have lower diet quality scores.
Researchers found that delivering at 39 weeks provides the optimal balance between stillbirth risk and infant health issues, making it an ideal time frame for safest births. The study used a large-scale data set to provide evidence-driven recommendations for delivery timing among women with chronic hypertension.
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that placentas from fresh embryo transfers are smaller on average compared to those from frozen embryo transfers. The researchers also identified altered gene function and DNA methylation in ART-conceived children, particularly in relation to metabolism and growth.
A systematic review of 1500 research papers found that pregnant women who contract bird flu have a high risk of death and birth defects. The study stresses the importance of early inclusion of pregnant women in public health vaccination programs during pandemics.
Pregnant women with MS receiving disease-modifying therapies show increased risk of low birth weight and serious infections. Exposure to S1P modulators, natalizumab, and anti-CD20 antibodies is particularly concerning.
A UK study published in Diabetic Medicine found that over half of pregnant women with gestational diabetes were undiagnosed due to slow NHS blood test processing. Faster blood processing identified additional cases, leading to improved health outcomes for mothers and babies.
Researchers used drone imagery to measure calf growth and maternal body condition in Hawaiʻi and Alaska, finding larger females produced larger calves. Humpback whales lose significant weight during lactation, with mothers losing nearly 214 pounds per day.
A new AI tool called PlacentaVision can rapidly evaluate placentas at birth to detect abnormalities associated with infection and neonatal sepsis. This could lead to improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies, particularly in areas with limited medical resources.
Humpback whales' reproductive success is linked to maternal characteristics and energy balance. Researchers found fetal growth rates increased with maternal length and energy demands peaked in the final third of pregnancy, coinciding with fasting and migration. This study highlights a vulnerable period for pregnant humpback whales and ...
A new study suggests that cesarean sections performed during labor are associated with an increased risk of recurrent preterm birth and mid-trimester loss in subsequent pregnancies. Cervical damage may be the underlying mechanism for these findings, highlighting a growing clinical concern.
Reproductive justice leaders discuss the need for intersectionality, economic and public health impacts, youth leadership, and state-based solutions to protect reproductive rights. The discussion aims to harness young people's energy and foster intergenerational collaboration.
Researchers found that prenatal exposure to Akkermansia muciniphila increased offspring's stem cell activity, leading to less anxiety and faster recovery from colitis. Postnatal exposure did not replicate these effects. The study suggests microbiome-based intervention strategies may improve child health.
Researchers have developed an mRNA cure for pre-eclampsia using a lipid nanoparticle, reducing maternal blood pressure and improving fetal health. The therapy, tested in pregnant mice, has shown promising results and is poised to move forward to human trials.
A new UK study analyzed data from three generations of adolescents and young adults to assess preconception health trends. The study found that while some unhealthy behaviors like smoking and soda consumption decreased over time, rates of overweight and obesity increased across the generations.
Increasing serotonin levels in the gut epithelium improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in animal studies, suggesting a new therapeutic approach. The study also highlights the risk of digestive issues in children exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy.
Despite significant declines in teen pregnancies in the UK, regional disparities persist, and some outcomes worsen. Experts warn that the 'rates are down, so the job is done' mentality may be detrimental to progress.
UC San Diego Health has been recognized as a High Performing Hospital for maternity care by U.S. News & World Report for the third consecutive year, providing highly reliable maternity care to expectant parents and newborns. The hospital also excels in breastfeeding support, with nearly 90% of babies fed exclusively breast milk.
A new analysis of over 3,000 studies reveals that flooding increases preterm births by around 3% and low birth weights in children born during flood events. The study highlights the need for emergency services to evacuate pregnant people before flooding events.
UCSF Medical Center has received the highest possible rating for maternity care, reflecting its commitment to clinical excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The hospital's maternal care teams include a broad array of expertise, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and obstetrician anesthesiologists.
A new study by Duke University researchers reveals that pups of dominant female meerkats, exposed to higher levels of testosterone in the womb, tend to carry more gut parasites and have weaker immune systems. Blocking a matriarch's testosterone improved the health of her pups, leading to stronger natural defenses against infection.
Scientists discover that pregnant and nursing women's intestines undergo significant changes, doubling their surface area and reorganizing villi structure. This adaptation is crucial for the health of babies and may have long-term metabolic consequences.
A new gene therapy has shown promise in reversing a condition that causes significant stillbirths and premature deliveries globally. The therapy, developed by University of Florida Health researcher Helen N. Jones, successfully boosted placental function and delivered normal-weight offspring in guinea pig models.
A study published in Environmental Epigenetics found that pregnant women with preeclampsia had distinct epigenetic modifications, potentially serving as a biomarker. The researchers hope to develop a cheek swab test to detect these risks earlier, allowing for preventative medicine treatments.
A Brazilian study of 89 father-mother-baby triads found that paternal overweight is linked to lower birth weight and may influence the baby's health in adulthood. The research suggests that fathers should prioritize healthy habits during pregnancy to support fetal development.
A clinical trial led by University of Oklahoma Health Sciences is investigating a new device designed to restore ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility. The REBALANCE trial aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of the device, which uses electrothermal energy to prompt ovulation.
Women with infertility are at higher risk of developing SARD, including lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, even after accounting for pre-eclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Infertility treatments do not appear to increase this risk, suggesting that women may be undiagnosed or untreated.
The study characterizes crisis pregnancy center services as potentially hazardous due to promotion of abortion pill reversal without FDA approval. The researchers emphasize the need for stricter regulations on provider qualifications and service provision.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered that pregnancy enhances the body's natural immunity to block severe flu infection. By activating a powerful molecule in the nasal cavity, pregnant women may benefit from stronger antiviral defenses against the Influenza A virus.
A new study reveals crisis pregnancy centers in the US make misleading and dangerous claims, including promoting unproven abortion pill reversal treatments. The study found that 90% of CPCs advertised medical services, while 30% promoted 'abortion pill reversal,' which lacks FDA approval.
The University of Arizona researchers aim to gain a better understanding of factors contributing to the health and quality of life of people living with spina bifida. The project will collect data on patients of all ages, providing insights into gaps in care and unmet needs for individuals with spina bifida across the lifespan.
A new study finds that fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) exposure is associated with altered immune responses and increased inflammation in pregnant women, leading to adverse birth outcomes. The study highlights the importance of minimizing air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and fetal health.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that unplanned pregnancies lead to a sharper decline in health during the first two years after childbirth, particularly among young women. In contrast, women who become mothers at an older age recover more easily due to better initial health.
A study funded by NIH found no association between antiseizure drugs used during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental problems in children at age 6. Higher folate doses during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy were associated with better cognitive outcomes.
Researchers at Nanjing University confirm link between SLC25A1 protein and congenital heart defects caused by placental problems. The study found that loss of SLC25A1 leads to placental growth issues, which in turn cause heart defects.
A new study published in JAMA found that women who experience severe maternal morbidity during their first pregnancy are less likely to have more children. The research, which studied over a million women in Sweden, revealed that such events can have a lasting impact on fertility.
A new study from Northwestern Medicine reveals a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity and birth complications in Illinois between 2016 and 2023. The findings highlight the impact of chronic health conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and mental health disorders on pregnancy outcomes.
A new study found that a prenatal diet meeting USDA guidelines is linked to healthy birthweights, steady growth patterns, and potentially lower childhood obesity. Researchers also discovered mixed effects of low-inflammatory diets on infant growth.
A cross-sectional study found significant increases in postpartum depression diagnosis among all racial and ethnic groups and body mass index categories over the past decade. The persistently high rates underscore the need for preventative interventions to mitigate PPD's impact on maternal and child health.
A study found that maternal immune activity during pregnancy affects offspring's long-term memory circuitry and function in childhood and midlife. Elevated levels of IL-6 and TNF-a in mothers were linked to adverse brain activity in memory circuitry, particularly in postmenopausal women.
A study found that oral microbiomes vary with life stress and mental health symptoms in pregnant women, differing from gut microbiome associations. Women experiencing anxiety or depression showed high alpha diversity, while those with PTSD symptoms had high beta diversity.