Articles tagged with Pregnancy
Exposure to extreme heat during pregnancy quadruples the risk of child health problems, especially when combined with high humidity. The added weight and hormonal changes in pregnant women make them more susceptible to heat stress.
The number of US pertussis cases has surged sixfold since the pandemic began, with over 26,600 reported in 2024. Many Americans are unaware of whooping cough symptoms or that a vaccine exists to prevent it. Despite widespread agreement on the causes and risks of the disease, vaccination rates remain low.
Estrogen activates previously unknown pathways in the colon, triggering pain and increasing sensitivity to certain foods. This explains why women are more likely to suffer from IBS and provides potential new ways to treat the condition.
Researchers found that Asian and Singaporean women with PCOS have better reproductive outcomes, including higher pregnancy rates and oocyte retrieval per cycle, compared to women without PCOS. Women with PCOS tend to maintain a higher ovarian reserve as they age, allowing for more robust responses to fertility treatment.
A virtual diet and exercise program has been shown to reduce treatment side effects and increase treatment retention, according to a Sylvester study presented at ASH 2025. Lifestyle interventions can also help patients with blood cancers such as MDS and large B-cell lymphoma receive more effective and less toxic treatments.
This study found that vaccination before and during COVID-19 diagnosis in pregnancy significantly lowers the risk of severe maternal illness and premature birth. The results suggest that COVID-19 vaccination plays a crucial role in protecting pregnant individuals from serious health complications associated with the virus.
A UBC-led study found that COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduces hospitalization, intensive care admission, and preterm birth risks for pregnant women. Vaccination is associated with lower risks even as the virus evolved from Delta to Omicron variants.
A study published in JAMA found that expectant management resulted in higher survival rates compared to active treatment for patent ductus arteriosus in extremely preterm infants. The protocol-defined study showed no significant difference in mortality or bronchopulmonary dysplasia between the two groups.
Researchers found that taking hydroxyurea during or shortly before pregnancy does not appear to cause specific issues in newborns, but recommend discontinuing the drug before conception due to potential risks. The study included data from 245 pregnancies involving hydroxyurea exposure and showed no maternal deaths or hydroxyurea-relate...
A multidisciplinary project resulted in a significant rise in iron deficiency screening and treatment for pregnant patients. The project standardized ferritin testing and prescribed oral or IV iron supplements to address low ferritin levels, leading to improved median hemoglobin levels among those who received IV infusions.
A multicenter randomized controlled trial demonstrates the advantages of continuous real-time glucose monitoring over finger-prick testing in managing gestational diabetes. The study found that only four percent of women with rt-CGM gave birth to above-average weight children, compared to ten percent in the control group.
A study of 349 new parents found intrusive thoughts and psychotic-like experiences more prevalent than thought, causing severe distress linked to higher parenting stress and lower satisfaction. The research highlights the need for normalisation, stigma reduction, and targeted support for affected parents.
A recent study found that a PFAS mixture can interfere with placental development, impairing nutrient transfer and hormone production. The research used a 3D trophoblast model to simulate placental exposure, revealing disrupted invasiveness, apoptosis, and proliferation processes.
Researchers used human pluripotent stem cells to model early placental formation, discovering VGLL1 plays a crucial role in turning stem cells into placental stem cells. The study's findings could lead to improved embryo quality and viability, especially for in vitro fertilization.
A new trial by King's College London found that planned birth at term can reduce the incidence of pre-eclampsia in women at high risk by 30%, compared to usual care. The intervention also did not increase emergency Caesarean or neonatal unit admission.
A cohort study found that maternal plasma vitamin D levels inversely associated with offspring early childhood caries. Vitamin D supplementation before or during pregnancy may reduce the risk and severity of childhood dental caries.
A Cochrane review found no significant effect of calcium supplementation on pre-eclampsia, contradicting long-held assumptions. The review excluded small and unreliable studies that previously suggested benefits of calcium supplementation.
A research team at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft found that pregnant mice exposed to fatty food smells developed more pronounced obesity and insulin resistance in their offspring. The brains of the offspring showed similarities to those of obese adult mice, suggesting a potential link between maternal diet and child health.
A recent study found that over 70% of pregnant women consume alcohol-free or low-alcohol drinks, primarily for safety reasons. However, many feel there is a need for clearer information and support on the suitability of these alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A new study suggests that expanding seasonal immunization access could minimize off-season RSV epidemics, with higher rates of hospitalizations in urban areas compared to rural communities. Providing year-round access to RSV immunization would be more risk-averse and minimize risks of large seasonal outbreaks.
A new study found that maternal thyroid hormones are crucial for fetal neurodevelopment, and gestational thyroid imbalance increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder. Women with persistent thyroid dysfunction across pregnancy were at a higher risk of having children with autism.
A new study found that hospitals with early ultrasound protocols detected 40% of major fetal anomalies before 16 weeks of pregnancy, compared to 28% in hospitals without such protocols. This suggests that systematic first trimester screening could improve the timeliness of anomaly detection across the population.
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.
The study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists are increasingly used for postpartum weight loss in overweight women without a documented diabetes diagnosis. The primary indication for use was weight reduction, suggesting a potential shift in treatment guidelines.
A recent study found distinct changes in NAD-related metabolites in women with recurrent miscarriage, suggesting a deeper metabolic imbalance. The findings may lead to the identification of potential biomarkers for risk assessment and new avenues for treatment.
A review of 1.6 million women found that two-thirds experience excessive or inadequate weight gain during pregnancy, associated with complications such as preterm birth and large birth weight. The study supports the development of global healthy growth and weight gain standards to improve outcomes for mothers and babies worldwide.
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 recent Finnish study found an association between severe nausea during pregnancy and depression, both before and after childbirth. Women who experienced severe nausea were more likely to develop depression and receive earlier diagnoses.
In response to rising RSV cases, ECDC advises policymakers and public health authorities on effective ways to mitigate the impact of RSV disease in infants. Immunisation interventions, including long-acting monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccines, can prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
A cross-sectional study found significant associations between state-level firearm ownership and all-cause and firearm-specific homicide among pregnant women. The results suggest that prevention efforts should focus on women during pregnancy, particularly in states with higher firearm ownership rates.
A researcher is exploring how maternal diet influences offspring food choices later in life, using cells called neuropods that send signals from the intestine to the brain. The goal is to create personalized diets that are more palatable and promote healthier eating habits.
A new study from Intermountain Health found that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and death within five years after giving birth. Women with chronic hypertension and severe forms of HDP had the greatest risk of future cardiovascular events.
Research finds existing evidence on paracetamol use during pregnancy does not clearly link it to autism or ADHD in children; studies suggest shared genetic and environmental factors within families may explain the observed risk. Women can be advised to take paracetamol when needed for pain and fever during pregnancy.
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.
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found no association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and ADHD. The study offers reassurance for pregnant women, public health agenci...
A new study found that nearly half of obstetricians refer pregnant patients to allergists only once a year, and about one in four never refer them at all. The most frequently cited barriers are limited knowledge about referral indications and long wait times for appointments.
A study analyzing US birth records found that a cap-and-trade initiative to reduce ozone pollution significantly improved infant health outcomes, including higher birth weight and lower rates of low birth weight and very preterm birth.
A new study from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine calls for more extensive nephrology fellowship training on reproductive health. Females with CKD face increased risks of high-risk pregnancies, preeclampsia, and preterm births, yet their contraceptive use remains relatively low.
Researchers found that baseline Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) levels between 2.1-2.8 ng/ml correspond to 35-42% of live birth rates in women with cancer using fertility preservation. The study aims to improve prediction and standardization for fertility treatments.
A new study found that explicit prenatal drug criminalization policies in the US are associated with reductions in prenatal care and facility-based deliveries. This is particularly concerning for high-risk pregnancies, as avoidance of healthcare services can have serious health consequences.
A study published in the journal Bone found a clear link between osteomalacia and a fivefold increased risk of emergency caesarean sections or vacuum-assisted delivery. Vitamin D deficiency is a key underlying cause of osteomalacia, which may influence labor outcomes and increase the need for urgent obstetric interventions.
A new study reveals how prenatal alcohol exposure impairs key brain cells and circuits, leading to cognitive inflexibility and increased risk of compulsive alcohol use. Researchers identified a specific brain cell affected by early alcohol exposure, providing a clear target for developing more effective treatments of FASD.
A systematic review by ECU and US universities reveals cognitive-based interventions as the most effective in managing perinatal anxiety, depression, and stress, while counselling-based interventions show moderate impact on anxiety and quality of life. Occupational therapy can help women transition to new roles, providing strategies fo...
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.
A new study finds that ChatGPT can provide trustworthy information for pregnant women seeking medical advice on treating opioid use disorder, with over 97% of responses scoring as safe and accurate. The researchers used a persona to frame conversations with the AI, which showed consistency with accepted clinical practice.
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.
International Consortium of Women's Mental Health Experts recommend classifying postpartum psychosis as a distinct category within standardized medical coding systems. This classification is crucial for improving patient outcomes and saving lives, particularly due to the risks associated with the condition to both patients and infants.
A new study published in The BMJ found that restricting sugar intake during early life is associated with lower risks of heart conditions in adulthood. People exposed to sugar rationing in utero and during their first two years had a 20% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as slower onset of heart problems.
A biomarker study found that low placental growth factor (PlGF) levels can predict early-onset preeclampsia in pregnant women with sickle cell disease. The researchers identified a PlGF threshold of 87 pg/mL at 20-24 weeks as effective for predicting early-onset preeclampsia and late-onset preeclampsia, respectively.
A new Cochrane review found that immediate skin-to-skin contact between newborns and their mothers significantly improves exclusive breastfeeding rates, optimal body temperature, breathing, and heart rate. The review suggests that skin-to-skin contact should be the global standard of care for all babies after birth.
Research challenges assumption that severe preeclampsia cases are more dangerous for mothers, finding instead that women with large preterm infants face increased cardiovascular disease risk despite smaller infant size.
A recent study found that telehealth medication abortion requests doubled in 18 states following the Dobbs decision, with the majority of requests occurring before 6 weeks of pregnancy. This increase builds upon previous findings indicating a rise in telehealth requests among individuals living far from in-person abortion services.
A study found that preexisting hyperlipidemia in pregnancy is associated with heightened risks of obstetric complications and early cardiovascular events postpartum. Women with high cholesterol are at increased risk of arrhythmias, acute coronary syndrome, gestational diabetes, and labor delivery complications.
A new survey conducted by Orlando Health found that less than half of Americans are aware of the technology and testing available to decrease risks for a healthy baby after 35 years old. Advanced prenatal testing and care can help older mothers have safe and healthy pregnancies, dispelling common misconceptions about age and pregnancy.
A cohort study of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine exposure in the first trimester found no association with major congenital malformations. The study supports the safety of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines during early pregnancy.
A new study found that cardiovascular-related complications during pregnancy affect approximately 15% of pregnancies, with increases seen across all age groups. The rise in health risk factors before and during pregnancy drives these complications, emphasizing the importance of early identification and prevention strategies.
Research reveals that Bifidobacterium breve in pregnant mothers regulates the placenta's hormone production, reducing complications and improving fetal growth. The study opens up a new approach to assessing pregnancy health through gut microbiome analysis.
A recent survey found that only 38% of US adults recommend taking a Covid-19 vaccine during pregnancy, while only 42% believe it is safe. Women aged 18-49 are even less likely to support vaccination, with 36% and 28% respectively, suggesting a decline in vaccination rates among childbearing women.
Dr. Megan McLaughlin's research highlighted critical gaps in postpartum care for individuals with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, a major risk factor for future cardiovascular disease. Her study confirms missed opportunities to improve long-term heart health in a high-risk population.
A decision analytical model study estimates COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy will continue to yield meaningful benefits, especially in reducing infant hospitalizations. COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to be safe for pregnant individuals.