Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
According to a recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition, over 90% of pregnant individuals are potentially failing to get enough iron, vitamin D, or vitamin E from the food they eat. Almost two-thirds were found to be getting insufficient dietary folate, a critical nutrient that helps prevent birth defects.
The large cohort study identified common pregnancy complications, such as premature rupture of membranes and gestational diabetes mellitus, affecting 18.29% and 16.74% of participants, respectively. High-risk groups were also identified, including women with assisted reproductive technology and those aged 35 and older.
A recent study by researchers at Kumamoto University found a potential link between exposure to certain everyday chemicals during pregnancy and the development of asthma in children. The study analyzed data from over 3,500 mother-child pairs and measured 24 types of phenols in urine samples collected from pregnant women.
A national study led by Oregon State University found that planned home births for low-risk pregnancies are comparable to birth center births in terms of health outcomes. The study analyzed over 110,000 births from 2012 to 2019 and showed no safety difference between the two settings.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center is developing novel uterine-targeted delivery systems for therapeutics known as tocolytics, aiming to improve maternal and fetal safety. The project, funded by ARPA-H and DavosPharma, seeks to prolong pregnancies and allow crucial development of significant organs.
A new large study from Zambia found that two years of financial support combined with comprehensive sexuality education and community dialogue meetings moderately reduced births during the support period. Longer-term efforts to make high school more affordable are likely to be important to keep girls in school and reduce adolescent pre...
A new study found that pregnant people in Massachusetts who made multiple unscheduled hospital visits during pregnancy were more likely to experience severe maternal morbidity. The study revealed that nearly half of these patients visited multiple hospitals, leading to inconsistent treatment and poor maternal outcomes.
A study found that prenatal exposure to THC increases dopamine release and rewires the fetal brain, leading to a higher risk of opioid addiction later in life. The research suggests that THC exposure during pregnancy may contribute to neurobiological vulnerabilities, making individuals more susceptible to addiction-like behavior.
A Japanese study of over 97,000 1-3-year-olds found a possible link between maternal prenatal psychological distress and increased epilepsy diagnosis rates in their offspring. The research suggests that continuous stress during pregnancy may be a contributing factor to the development of epilepsy in young children.
A recent study published in Med found that pregnant women who chewed xylitol-containing gum twice daily experienced a 24% decrease in preterm births compared to those who did not receive the intervention. The study also saw a 30% drop in low-birthweight babies.
Singer Amy Grant's personal testimonial highlights the urgent need for support to save women's lives by funding research into better diagnosing, treating, and preventing cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association aims to address awareness gaps and bridge clinical care gaps in women's heart health.
A study of 831 pregnant women found that only 36% adhere to folic acid supplementation recommendations, with low folate and vitamin B12 status detected in nearly half. Deficiencies can cause miscarriage, malformations, and other health problems.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that using personal care products during pregnancy is associated with higher concentrations of PFAS in blood plasma and breast milk. The study suggests that people concerned about their exposure may benefit from cutting back on these products.
Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that Black patients are two to three times as likely to retain or gain additional weight compared to white counterparts. The study suggests interventions addressing the underlying stressors of discrimination could complement community and clinical interventions.
A preliminary study of over 4,000 pregnant individuals found that socioeconomic status during early pregnancy may explain most of the disparities in cardiovascular health among women from different racial and ethnic groups. The study suggests that addressing social determinants of health can help eliminate these disparities.
A recent study found that every 1°C increase in heat exposure increases preterm birth by 4%, while a heatwave can lead to a 26% increased risk. The review also highlights marked increases in gestational diabetes, stillbirths, and congenital anomalies.
Researchers identified disturbances in glucose regulation after delivery in women who have had gestational diabetes, despite comparable clinical measurements. Continuous monitoring using wearable devices revealed disrupted blood sugar rhythms and internal clocks, suggesting a need for appropriate follow-up.
A cross-sectional study found that barriers to divorce were associated with higher pregnancy-associated homicide rates and better access to reproductive health care was linked to lower rates. The study highlights the importance of considering state legislation when addressing pregnancy-related violence.
Research highlights correlation between preeclampsia and COVID-19 in pregnant women, identifying biomarkers for differential diagnosis. The review article emphasizes the pathophysiological similarities between the two conditions, including shared pathways involving the renin-angiotensin system and ACE2.
New research led by the University of Southampton found that vitamin D supplements during pregnancy increase children's bone mineral density in mid-childhood. Children born to mothers who received extra vitamin D supplementation had stronger bones and were less likely to break them.
A large international study found that very early medication abortion is equally effective and safe as waiting for intrauterine pregnancy confirmation. The study included over 1,500 women who received two drugs – mifepristone and misoprostol – in either a delayed or early abortion group.
A multicenter national clinical trial is being conducted to study whether giving antibiotics at the start of labor induction can decrease C-sections in pregnant women with obesity. The trial aims to enroll nearly 800 women and analyze infection rates, complications, and microbiome changes.
A recent study found that children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of lower birth weight, shorter stature, and smaller head circumference. The researchers believe that the placenta's inability to meet the baby's demands due to PCOS-related hormonal imbalances may be the cause.
A new NIH study found exposure to organophosphate esters (OPEs) during pregnancy may affect childhood obesity risk. Children exposed to higher levels of certain OPEs had a greater or lower risk of obesity compared to those with lower exposure.
A new study from ICES and the University of Toronto found that people with a history of concussion face a 25% higher risk of severe mental health issues after childbirth. Early screening and trauma-informed care could help protect new parents’ mental health.
Recreational cannabis legalization in California is associated with higher rates of cannabis use during early pregnancy, driven by jurisdictions allowing adult-use retailers. The study found that individuals living in these areas were more likely to use cannabis during early pregnancy.
A new study proposes an ethics-based approach to medication decisions in pregnancy, combining existing evidence with a woman's values. The approach aims to balance the benefits and risks of medications for individual pregnant patients and fetuses.
A study from the University of Georgia found that about 6% of pregnant women used marijuana during the last month, with many not associating it with health risks. The research highlights the importance of educating women about the potential negative effects of marijuana use during pregnancy.
A new study suggests that boosting T-regulatory cells may improve the chance of healthy pregnancy and reduce miscarriage risk. Researchers found that treatment with interleukin-2 and antibodies targeting these cells improved pregnancy outcomes in mice, reducing miscarriage rates from 30% to 11%.
Research suggests that social support decreases among pregnant and parenting individuals with OUD, but integrating community-based supports like doulas can increase trust and positive outcomes. A peer recovery doula model could provide an authentic bond for new mothers with OUD during the postpartum period.
A US cohort study found that prenatal cannabis exposure was associated with differences in executive function and aggressive behavior in children at age 5. The study's results may inform clinical recommendations on cannabis use during pregnancy.
Researchers from NUS and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that breastfeeding significantly reduces cardiovascular disease risk among women with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. A healthy Mediterranean diet with low persistent organic pollutant exposure also lowers the risk of GDM.
Using Clinical Design Support Systems (CDSS) can help make maternity services safer for pregnant women, with a meta-analysis of 35 studies showing a 1.69 times higher odds of improved outcomes. The findings support the use of AI and related software tools to improve pregnancy care.
A survey of 1,729 young adults in the UK found that almost nine in 10 believe removing a condom without consent is sexual assault, and around half support prison time as a penalty. The study also explored views on non-consensual condom removal in different relationship scenarios.
Researchers detected ZEN in nearly all pregnant women's urine samples and 84% of placentas, highlighting the need for regulations to control mycoestrogen presence in food. Women with healthier diets had lower exposure levels, while those consuming ultra-processed foods showed increased ZEN concentrations.
A new study reveals that mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections can trigger immune responses in pregnant individuals, causing serious inflammatory responses in the developing fetus. The study also found that even without full infection, a pregnant individual's immunological response to infection may impact the fetus.
A cohort study found no association between maternal COVID-19 exposure and abnormal neurodevelopmental screening results in children aged 24 months. Continued research is needed due to the developing fetal brain's sensitivity to maternal immune activation.
A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that folic acid supplementation may weaken the link between blood-lead levels and autistic-like behaviors in children. The study suggests that adequate folic acid supplementation mitigates the neurotoxic effects of lead, reducing the risk of autism.
A recent study analyzing data from the ANCORS-YW study found that overweight and obese women in this region are at a higher risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Researchers recommend tailored preventive strategies, including lifestyle modification programs and socioeconomic support, to address this public health challenge.
The National Institutes of Health has announced the winners of the RADx Tech for Maternal Health Challenge, an $8 million prize competition to develop innovative diagnostics for postpartum maternal health. Six finalists won grand prizes of $525,000 each, and two runner-up teams won prizes of $300,000 each.
Miscarriage affects 15-20% of pregnancies, causing devastating effects. Outpatient early pregnancy assessment clinics can provide compassionate and tailored care, but services are lagging.
A study published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research found six proteins that could be used as targets for diagnosing and treating early-onset preeclampsia. These proteins may be linked to cardiovascular complications or the estrogen cycle, suggesting a promising first step toward improved detection and treatment.
A study from Lund University shows that high DNA fragmentation in sperm is associated with doubled risk of preeclampsia and premature birth in women conceived through IVF. The findings suggest that DFI analysis could be used to identify high-risk pregnancies, potentially leading to improved fertility treatment.
A new study published in MED found that maternal exercise during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of asthma in children. The research, which followed over 1,000 mother-child pairs, suggests that engaging in moderate exercise three times a week during pregnancy can lower the risk by nearly half.
Researchers analyzed nationally representative data and found a 76% increase in emergency encounters related to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The condition, which causes serious maternal and neonatal complications, accounts for 6.3% of all pregnancy-related deaths in the US.
US women between 20-44 years old have experienced declining vitamin A, C, and iron intake over the last two decades. This trend may have significant implications for maternal and fetal health. The study aims to identify these nutrient gaps and inform recommendations to improve intake.
A University of Queensland-led study has failed to find any strong links between drinking coffee during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental difficulties in children. The researchers used genetic data from mothers, fathers, and babies to analyze the impact of caffeine consumption on fetal brain development.
A new study found that the effects of alcohol exposure on an embryo prior to implantation can be detected in the late-gestation placenta. The research revealed significant molecular changes in the placenta, including DNA methylation alterations that could serve as a molecular signature for detecting alcohol exposure.
Researchers analyzed DNA sequences from 25,000 pregnant Chinese women and identified genetic variants associated with maternal diseases such as gestational diabetes and obesity. The study also found links between maternal genetics and childhood diseases like gastroenteritis and acute tonsillitis.
A new Finnish study reveals that women with a fear of childbirth have a significantly shorter breastfeeding duration. The research found that fear of childbirth is associated with a three times higher risk of not meeting the recommended six-month exclusive breastfeeding period.
Researchers found that prenatal exposure to synthetic cannabinoid led to cardiovascular problems in female rats and increased respiratory sensitivity to carbon dioxide in male rats. Sleep quality also deteriorated in both sexes, with males experiencing sleep fragmentation due to frequent wakefulness episodes.
A recent study published in The Lancet Public Health found that body weight is a significant factor in pregnancy complications, affecting women born in different countries. Researchers estimated that approximately half of all cases of gestational diabetes could be prevented if all women were of normal weight during pregnancy.
A new study analyzing over five million births found a 10.6% increase in preterm births between 2011 and 2022, with racial and socioeconomic disparities persisting. Factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and mental health conditions became more common, while protective factors such as prenatal care and WIC participation declined.
New research suggests that exposure to vape and e-cigarette residue on surfaces during pregnancy can cause immune system damage in unborn babies. The study found that maternal third-hand exposure to e-vapour results in significant, long-lasting effects on lung and bone marrow immune cell responses.
A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that a pregnant woman's genetic background significantly affects the effectiveness of Non-Invasive Prenatal Tests (NIPTs). The study found that a specific genetic variant in approximately 7% of women increases the odds of inconclusive results and impairs test sensitivity. This discovery ...
A recent study found that pregnant women who get less than 7 hours of sleep per night are at higher risk of having children with neurodevelopmental delays. This can affect social, emotional, behavioral, motor, cognitive, or speech skills in the child.
A University College Cork study reveals that over 80% of pregnant women in Ireland are iron deficient by their third trimester, linked to increased risks of complications. The findings emphasize the need for routine screening and education on iron intake during pregnancy.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that over 80% of women are iron deficient by the third trimester of pregnancy. Despite being considered a high-resource setting, the study revealed alarming rates of iron deficiency among healthy pregnant women. This finding emphasizes the importance of routin...
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.