Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Researchers found that hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are strongly associated with a doubling of fatal cardiovascular disease risk compared to women with normal blood pressure. Eclampsia was linked to a nearly 58-fold increase in fatal cardiovascular disease.
Researchers analyzed data from 2.4 million children born in Sweden to find no evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Sibling comparisons controlled for shared genetic and environmental factors, providing reassurance for expectant parents considering medication use.
A recent study published in JAMA Network found no association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in offspring. The study suggests that familial confounding may have contributed to previous associations observed in other models.
A recent study published by the European Psychiatric Association found a significant association between prenatal cannabis use disorder and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual disability (ID). The stud...
A new study finds that women who have been pregnant look biologically older than those who haven't, with the number of pregnancies accelerating biological aging in young adults. The study used 'epigenetic clocks' to measure cellular aging and found a significant association between pregnancy history and biological age.
A new study found that extending Medicaid eligibility for birthing people increases treatment for perinatal mood and anxiety disorder by 20.5 percentage points, compared to those with commercial insurance. Retaining postpartum Medicaid coverage also significantly lowers patients' out-of-pocket spending for mental healthcare.
Research highlights gaps in information, support, and resources for women with serious mental illness who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. The study found that few women recalled discussions of pregnancy with their mental health providers and were dissatisfied with the information they received about potential safety concerns.
Research at the University of Gothenburg reveals a link between maternal protein intake during pregnancy and the formation of facial bone structures in offspring. The study found that a particular signaling pathway, mTOR, plays a crucial role in shaping the face.
A trio of studies show increased diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, and PTSD in pregnant and new mothers with private insurance, but disparities persist. The findings suggest that policy changes and increased awareness have contributed to the rise in diagnoses and treatments.
Researchers found a strong bidirectional relationship between premenstrual disorders and perinatal depression among over 900,000 women. Women with perinatal depression were more likely to develop premenstrual disorders after pregnancy and childbirth.
A nationwide Swedish study reveals a bidirectional link between premenstrual disorders (PMS/PMDD) and perinatal depression. Women with PMS/PMDD are five times more likely to experience perinatal depression, while those with perinatal depression are twice as likely to develop PMS/PMDD.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found no increased health risks for mothers or children with weight gain below recommended guidelines for women with obesity classes 1 and 2. In contrast, weight loss was associated with reduced risk of adverse outcomes in women with class 3 obesity.
Researchers found a link between miscarriage and increased risks of developing gestational diabetes (44% higher) and pre-eclampsia (37% higher), but not with abortion. The study analyzed over 4 million pregnancies and suggests new ways to mitigate risks or prevent these conditions from progressing.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that high fat/low protein diets in rats during pregnancy and postnatally can cause altered glucose control and other maladaptive metabolic changes in their offspring. The researchers also discovered disruptions in circadian rhythm programming of energy metabolites through adulthood.
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.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a novel imaging platform to visualize the growth of the placenta throughout pregnancy. The approach provides detailed images of blood flow and oxygen metabolism, shedding light on how lifestyle factors and health complications affect placental development.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health finds that prenatal exposure to antiseizure medication topiramate does not increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children. In contrast, valproate has been linked to a heightened risk of ASD.
Researchers found that metformin treatment does not have a positive effect on the brain development of offspring mice. The study suggests that the maternal metabolic state is crucial in determining the impact of metformin on the child's health.
Women with selected rheumatic diseases experience a higher prevalence of childlessness, while risks for pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm delivery are increased for many conditions. Men with rheumatic conditions also face a higher risk of childlessness, although the impact on fertility varies among different diseases.
Research found that certain patterns of pregnancy history, including early deliveries and multiple hypertensive disorders, are associated with high risk of heart attack and stroke. Others with fewer or no complications have lower risk, suggesting other factors may also play a role in predicting cardiovascular disease mortality.
A new study from Northwestern Medicine found that the US maternal mortality rate increased by nearly doubling between 2014 and 2021, with no correlation to increasing pregnancy-related deaths among older adults. The study highlights the need to investigate other causes of maternal mortality, particularly cardiovascular disease.
Researchers developed a web-based decision aid to support pregnant individuals in making informed decisions about tubal sterilization. The study found that those who used the decision aid had significantly higher knowledge of the procedure's permanence and reduced uncertainty, compared to those who did not use it.
Genomic analysis of malaria parasites in pregnant women reveals reduced diversity in areas with elimination interventions implemented. Routine sampling of pregnant women can inform about changes in transmission and complement clinical data.
Research reveals metformin treatment does not benefit offspring brain development despite positive effects on pregnant animals. Maternal metabolic state plays a crucial role in shaping the outcomes.
A study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that laws criminalizing or punishing drug use during pregnancy are more likely to worsen rather than improve health outcomes. The findings suggest that punitive policies are ineffective and may even increase harm to pregnant individuals and their babies.
A new international study led by UNSW Sydney found no increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and learning difficulties after exposure to antipsychotics during pregnancy. The study tracked the long-term risk of intellectual disability, poor academic performance in maths and language, or learning, speech and language disorders.
A large study of 2.2 million teenage girls found that teen pregnancy increases the risk of premature mortality later in life. The researchers suggest that support for pregnant teenagers may help prevent future premature deaths.
A recent study from The Hospital for Sick Children found that pregnant teenagers in Ontario were at a 50% higher risk of premature death before age 31 compared to those with no teen pregnancy. The Young Prenatal Program and Young Families Program offer integrated physical, mental, and developmental care to support adolescent parents.
Research by Norwegian University of Science and Technology finds that high-intensity interval training increases breast milk's adiponectin levels, a hormone linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. This could help prevent childhood obesity.
A new study challenges the prevailing view on maternal mortality rates in the US, finding stable rates between 1999-2002 and 2018-2021. The researchers used a more accurate approach to identify and classify maternal deaths, refuting the idea of dramatic increases.
A new study by Rutgers Health and other universities found that the US maternal death rate is likely being overestimated due to flawed surveillance methods. The true rate is estimated to be around 10 deaths per 100,000 live births, nearly half of the CDC's reported figure.
A recent study published in BMJ found that progesterone is more effective than a cervical pessary at reducing extreme preterm birth in women with a short cervix. Women with a cervix shorter than 25mm can benefit from progesterone treatment to prevent severe preterm birth.
A new study found that Medicaid coverage extensions during the pandemic significantly increased postpartum coverage and reduced uninsurance rates. The study highlights the critical role of Medicaid in maternal health, particularly in the late postpartum period where many maternal deaths occur.
A new University of Cincinnati study compares pregnancy rates in patients on two types of dialysis, finding a higher rate with home hemodialysis. The study found an overall pregnancy rate of almost 9 people per thousand, with black women and younger age associated with a higher likelihood of pregnancy.
A landmark study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that COVID vaccines are safe to administer during pregnancy, with no abnormal delays in infants when tested at 12 months and 18 months. The study of over 2,200 infants from across the country also found an increased risk of delay among male infants at 12 months but not at 18 months.
A study published in the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics found that Medicaid expansion in Maryland led to improved newborn outcomes, including better Agar scores and reduced need for assisted ventilation. However, there were no significant differences in Cesarean section deliveries.
Research found that experiences of racial discrimination and perceived neighborhood racial composition are associated with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines during pregnancy. Higher macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) levels were linked to glucocorticoid resistance, a potential mechanism underlying preterm birth.
A new study examines the impact of the Dobbs decision on healthcare delivery, revealing a two-tiered system that worsens disparities for marginalized communities. Providers in restrictive and protective states report reduced quality of care, increased training gaps, and fewer trained healthcare providers.
Women with complicated pregnancies are 2-5 times more likely to die of cardiovascular diseases later in life. A study found that a woman's total pregnancy history at 40 years of age is strongly associated with ASCVD mortality.
A recent study using AI-based behavioral experiments on mice found that prenatal exposure to nicotine increases the risk of ADHD and autism spectrum disorders in newborns. The researchers developed a deep learning-based framework to analyze mouse behavior without observer bias.
A new study by the Microbicide Trials Network found no safety concerns with using the dapivirine vaginal ring during all stages of pregnancy. The research provides sufficient evidence that the ring is safe to use throughout pregnancy to protect against HIV, which poses a higher risk than at any other time.
A large clinical study conducted in South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe found that the dapivirine vaginal ring and daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis to be safe for HIV prevention among pregnant women. The study involved 248 pregnancies and showed no increased risk of stillbirth or miscarriage.
Research links low birthweight (<2.5 kg/5 lbs 8oz) to increased risk of early type 2 diabetes (59 years or younger) when combined with overweight at aged 20 years, with a 10 times greater risk compared to normal weight peers.
A Zika vaccine candidate has been shown to be safe and effective when administered both before and during pregnancy, according to a new study. The purified, inactivated vaccine (ZPIV) candidate prevented placental damage and blocked transmission of Zika virus from mother to fetus.
A nationwide cohort study found that 25% of pregnant women don't eat fish during pregnancy and only 16% take omega-3 supplements. The study suggests that supplement use is less common among those who consume less fish, increasing their risk for insufficient intake.
A new study published at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that prenatal exposure to general anesthesia for maternal surgery during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of disruptive or internalizing behavioral disorders, including ADHD and autism, in children. The study suggests that safer anesthetic drug...
A USC study found that diets high in solid fats and refined grains may increase the likelihood of developing preeclampsia, while a diet rich in vegetables, oils, and fruit may reduce the risk. Low-income Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by this health disparity.
New research reveals women's cardiovascular disease risks differ by age, lifestyle factors, and mental health conditions. Studies show sedentary behavior increases risk of death from all causes, while preeclampsia is linked to diet, highlighting need for targeted prevention strategies.
A large clinical trial found that an intervention for pregnant women in Pakistan significantly reduced the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression after birth. The intervention, led by Dr. Pamela J. Surkan, was administered by non-specialized providers and showed promising results.
A 20-year study of 1.2 million births reveals strong associations between extreme hot temperatures and preterm birth risks in the third trimester. Greenery may help mitigate this risk, suggesting a need for urban planning strategies to incorporate more green spaces.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neonatal infections and premature birth. Vaccinated mothers' babies had lower rates of respiratory distress syndrome and days spent in the NICU compared to unvaccinated mothers.
A new study found that severe maternal grief, particularly the loss of a partner or child, is associated with an increased risk of heart failure in children up to middle age. The research suggests that prenatal stress may lead to adverse changes in mental and physical health, impacting fetal heart development.
Researchers at Salk Institute find a new method to interrupt sperm production using an HDAC inhibitor, which blocks fertility without affecting libido. The treatment's reversibility is attributed to its ability to modulate gene expression downstream of retinoic acid.
A 15-year longitudinal study by UCLA researchers identifies an association between prenatal stress and early signs of adrenal puberty in first-born daughters. This finding adds to the understanding of fetal programming and its impact on child development.
A Tel Aviv University study found that women in this age group experience increased AMH secretion when exposed to UV radiation from the sun. This increase in hormone levels is associated with a positive effect on fertility.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics found a correlation between hookah use and increased symptoms of postpartum depression. Pregnant women who used hookahs before or during pregnancy were more likely to experience depressive symptoms, particularly among mothers from historically marginaliz...
A recent study reveals that incorporating mangos into the diet of women of childbearing age improves overall diet quality and nutrient intake, leading to a lower risk of pregnancy-related diseases. Mango consumption is associated with higher intakes of essential nutrients such as fiber, folate, and vitamin E.
A positive association was found between total prescription opioid dose dispensed and the odds of spontaneous preterm birth in a study of 251,000 pregnant patients. Minimizing opioid exposure during pregnancy is crucial to prevent spontaneous preterm delivery.
Research from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can provide protection to infants for at least six months. Infants born to mothers who received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine had higher antibody levels and greater protection from infection.
A study of 11,000 children found that maternal tobacco use during pregnancy is associated with enduring deficits in childhood neurocognition. Continued research on the link between maternal tobacco use and cognitive performance is needed.