Loneliness is central to perinatal depression
Researchers found that loneliness is a major risk for mental health problems during pregnancy and after birth, with stigma, self-isolation, and emotional disconnection contributing factors.
Pregnancy
Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Midwifery care safe for moderate- and high-risk pregnancies
A new UBC study reveals midwives provide safe primary care for all medical risk levels, with comparable or improved birth outcomes. Midwives also assist with lower caesarean delivery rates and collaborate with specialists.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023
Health, not age, driving a rise in pregnancy complications
A recent study found that adverse pregnancy outcomes are largely driven by pre-pregnancy health issues such as diabetes and hypertension. The rate of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy rose by over 50% during the decade, while the shift in age distribution accounted for less than 2% of that change.
Technology-assisted pregnancies have twice the risk of preeclampsia
People with technology-assisted pregnancies are twice as likely to develop preeclampsia as those with traditional pregnancies, according to a study. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related complication that poses risks to the pregnant person and baby.
Protein Biomarkers Identified in Women Who Developed Perinatal Depression and Anxiety
Researchers found altered proteins in women's blood during the third trimester, correlating with brain signaling activity and pro-inflammatory pathways. The study aims to develop early diagnosis and treatment protocols for perinatal mood disorders.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 23, 2023
Exercise more effective than medicines to manage mental health
A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that physical activity is 1.5 times more effective than counselling or medications in managing depression. The review of 97 reviews and 1039 trials shows that exercise interventions, especially those lasting 12 weeks or less, can significantly reduce mental health ...
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 23, 2023
Does electively induced labor in pregnancy affect a child’s future school performance?
A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that elective induction of labor between 37 and 41 weeks was associated with lower school performance in children at age 12. The analysis included over 266,000 children born between 37 and 42 weeks from uncomplicated pregnancies.
Association of pandemic with unsafe living situations, intimate partner violence among pregnant individuals
A study found an increase in unstable living situations and intimate partner violence between January 2019 and December 2020, with a temporary spike during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings suggest the need for prenatal screening and support services to address these issues.
Evaluation of maternal infection during pregnancy and childhood leukemia among offspring
A study of 2.2 million Danish children found certain maternal infections during pregnancy increased childhood leukemia risk among offspring. The findings suggest potential implications for etiology and preventive measures.
No safety concerns seen with use of dapivirine vaginal ring during third trimester of pregnancy, according to interim results of DELIVER study
The DELIVER study found that the vaginal dapivirine ring posed no safety concerns when used in the third trimester of pregnancy. The study enrolled women at different stages of gestation and reported similar pregnancy outcomes between those using the ring and a placebo.
Association of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy with future cardiovascular disease
A recent study finds a strong association between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and an increased risk of coronary artery disease and stroke. The study suggests that hypertensive disorders in pregnancy can be classified as risk factors for cardiovascular disease, highlighting the importance of prenatal care.
Expectant lemur dads see hormonal changes in response to pregnant mates, poop shows
A University of Arizona-led study found that expectant lemur dads see a significant increase in estradiol during their mates' pregnancies, which may help prepare them for parenting. The hormone spike occurs mainly in the third trimester and is associated with increased maternal sensitivity.
Targeted prenatal therapy for mothers and their babies addresses longstanding gap in health equity
Targeted RNA therapy aims to treat pre-eclampsia by delivering mRNA to placental cells, reducing maternal blood pressure and restoring fetal circulation. The treatment has shown promising results in mice, paving the way for potential treatments for human patients.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 15, 2023
New study identifies risk factors associated with low birthweights
A 20-year study by Swansea University researchers found that mothers with a history of substance misuse, smoking, or mental health conditions are at higher risk of having low-birth-weight babies. The study analyzed data from over 693,000 children born in Wales between 1998 and 2018.
Mothers’ alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy is linked to changes in children’s face shapes
A recent study published in Human Reproduction found a significant association between prenatal alcohol exposure and changes in children's facial features. The research used AI to analyze three-dimensional images of children's faces at ages nine and thirteen, revealing that mothers' alcohol consumption before and during pregnancy can h...
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2023
Pregnant women who fast during Ramadan tend to give birth to babies with lower weights, but this effect is reduced in women consuming a high fat diet outside of fasting hours
Pregnant women who fast during Ramadan tend to give birth to babies with lower weights. However, this effect is reduced in women consuming a high-fat diet outside of fasting hours, according to new research.
On-demand male contraceptive shows promise in preclinical study
A new experimental contraceptive drug has been developed by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators, demonstrating the possibility of an on-demand male contraceptive. The study found that a single dose of the sAC inhibitor TDI-11861 temporarily stops sperm movement and prevents pregnancies in preclinical models.
USPSTF recommendation statement on serologic screening for genital herpes infection
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine serologic screening for genital herpes simplex virus infection, even in symptomatic individuals. The lifelong nature of HSV infection means there is no cure, but antiviral medications can provide clinical benefits to those experiencing symptoms.
One of the largest studies of its kind finds being exposed to wildfire smoke increases risk of going into labor prematurely
A large study of over 2.5 million pregnancies in California found that exposure to wildfire smoke increased the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. The researchers analyzed data from 2007-2012 and found a significant association between wildfire smoke and premature labor, with an average exposure of 7.5 days.
Highlights from the journal CHEST®, February 2023
The February issue of the CHEST journal features 37 articles exploring various topics in chest medicine, including asthma, COPD, and pulmonary vascular disease. The journal also highlights its equity topic collection, focusing on conditions that affect women, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension and sarcoidosis.
First large real-world study of FDA-cleared device to treat postpartum hemorrhage finds device highly safe and effective
A new study of the FDA-cleared Jada System found that it successfully treated postpartum hemorrhage in 92.5% of vaginal births and 83.7% of cesarean births, with a mean indwelling time of 4.6 hours for vaginal births and 6.3 hours for cesarean births.
UNDER EMBARGO: Mount Sinai doctors present new research at 43rd Annual Pregnancy Meeting
Researchers from Mount Sinai Health System presented studies on the association between obesity and adverse outcomes in forceps-assisted vaginal deliveries, as well as the utility of cervical length surveillance after cerclage placement for predicting preterm birth. Additionally, a new tool for managing postpartum hemorrhage was showca...
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 10, 2023
Care for those who have a miscarriage may be compromised in states that restrict abortion, study finds
A study led by University at Buffalo physician Elana Tal found that people in states with restrictive abortion policies are less likely to receive optimal care after a miscarriage. The researchers found disparities in the management of early pregnancy loss, including lower rates of uterine aspiration and mifepristone prescription.
New research finds that people who use cannabis early in pregnancy are at increased risk of poor pregnancy outcomes
Research suggests that using cannabis in the first six to 14 weeks of pregnancy is associated with poor fetal growth and an increased risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy. The study analyzed urine samples from over 9,200 participants and found a significant link between cannabis use and adverse placental function.
Restricted abortion access will cause psychiatric harm
Research suggests that restricted access to abortions will cause severe stress for individuals carrying unwanted pregnancies, which may lead to psychiatric illnesses and developmental problems in children. This stress can exacerbate existing psychiatric vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of relapse or new episodes.
New research finds single dose of popular antibiotic given during labor significantly reduced risk of maternal death or sepsis in developing countries
A new study found that a single dose of azithromycin given during labor significantly reduced the risk of maternal death or sepsis in women in low- and middle-income countries. The antibiotic was administered to over 29,000 participants in eight sites across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Fluoride exposure associated with hypothyroidism in pregnancy, York study finds
A York University study found that higher fluoride levels in drinking water may increase the risk of hypothyroidism in pregnant women, associated with a 65% increased risk. The study also suggests a potential mechanism for lower IQs in boys born to mothers with higher fluoride exposure.
Metabolites better reflect consumption of the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy compared to self-reported dietary measures, study finds
Researchers found that metabolites associated with the Mediterranean diet may serve as an objective measure to assess adherence among pregnant individuals. The study identified several key metabolites linked to maternal physiology and outcomes, including gestational diabetes and chronic diseases.
SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Nicotine exposure during pregnancy may increase risk of sudden infant death
A comprehensive registry study found that infants whose mothers used snus during pregnancy were three times more likely to experience sudden infant death. Quitting snus early on lowered the risk, highlighting the need for women to avoid all types of nicotine products during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding may reduce arsenic exposure in infants in arsenic-contaminated areas
A study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that breastfeeding can reduce arsenic exposure in infants compared to formula feeding. Researchers measured arsenic levels in mothers, babies, and breast milk, revealing a clear association between maternal and neonatal arsenic exposure.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 8, 2023
Covid vaccination in pregnancy protects infants against infection and hospital admission
A recent study published by The BMJ found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy may have benefits for both mother and baby. Two doses of mRNA Covid-19 vaccine were highly effective against delta infection, while two doses against omicron infection showed moderate effectiveness. A third dose during pregnancy also bolstered protecti...
Pregnant people in rural communities less likely to have adequate health insurance
A new study reveals rural pregnant individuals are less likely to have adequate health insurance before, during, and after pregnancy compared to urban residents. This disparity affects access to quality care and increases the risk of adverse maternal health outcomes.
Changes in pregnancy-associated deaths during pandemic
Researchers found increased rates of pregnancy-associated deaths in the US from 2018 to 2020, with no significant decline. The pandemic contributed to these changes, with rates rising due to various causes including drugs, homicide, and suicide.
Combined steroid and statin treatment could reduce ‘accelerated ageing’ in preterm babies, study in rats suggests
Preterm birth increases the risk of cardiovascular problems; combining steroids with statins could eliminate negative effects while retaining respiratory benefits. Researchers found that combined therapy improved lung function and reduced cardiovascular issues in rat pups.
Migraine associated with increased risk for pregnancy complications
A new study found that women with pre-pregnancy migraine had greater risks of preterm delivery, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Migraine with aura was associated with a higher risk of preeclampsia than without aura.
Menstrual symptoms hurt workplace productivity of many women, UVA health study finds
A UVA Health survey found that 45.2% of women report taking days off due to menstrual symptoms, affecting energy levels, mood, and work interest. Digital health apps like Flo can help manage symptoms, improve productivity, and reduce leave, with app users being 18-25% less likely to report impacted productivity.
Evaluation of all-cause, cause-specific mortality by race, ethnicity among pregnant women
The study analyzed all-cause and cause-specific mortality rates among pregnant and recently pregnant women in the US. It found significant racial and ethnic disparities in mortality rates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.
80-year-old medical mystery that caused baby deaths solved
Researchers have solved an 80-year-old medical mystery that causes kidney damage in children and can be fatal in babies. They discovered a gene mutation is the primary cause, but found that around 10% of patients without the mutation still experience symptoms.
SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2023
Do certain jobs increase a woman’s risk of pregnancy loss?
A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health found that certain occupations in South Korea are associated with a higher risk of pregnancy loss. Women in health and social work, manufacturing, and education had increased risks of no live births and early abortive outcomes.
Expert analysis refutes claims that humans are colonised by bacteria before birth
A team of leading experts in reproductive biology, microbiome science, and immunology found that the concept of a foetal microbiome is inaccurate. The detection of microbiomes in foetal tissues was attributed to contamination during vaginal delivery, clinical procedures, or laboratory analysis.
Male alcohol use may be a crucial, unrecognized factor affecting IVF outcomes
Research from Texas A&M University reveals that male alcohol use has a significant negative influence on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates. The study highlights the importance of expanding fertility and prepregnancy messaging to emphasize the reproductive dangers of alcohol use by both parents.
Parasite common in cats causes abortion in bighorn sheep
Researchers found Toxoplasma gondii infection causing abortions and neonatal deaths in bighorn sheep. The parasite is believed to be spread by domestic and wild cats, raising concerns for conservation efforts.
Residential green space is associated with higher birth weight
Research in 11 European countries finds proximity to green spaces during pregnancy is associated with higher birth weight, while blue spaces show almost no association. Lower educational levels and more deprived areas experience stronger associations.
SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2023
Prenatal pollution exposure linked to lower cognitive scores in early life
Research on Latino mother-child pairs reveals that prenatal pollution exposure is associated with deficits in motor coordination, language skills, and cognitive development at age 2. The study found significant correlations between exposure to particulate matter and lower composite cognitive scores.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 24, 2023
IVF-conceived children show no developmental or educational disadvantage at primary school age compared to spontaneously conceived peers, as per data on over 400,000 Australian kids
A large-scale study found IVF-conceived children perform similarly to spontaneously conceived peers in terms of development and education. The research, involving over 400,000 Australian kids, suggests no significant differences in school outcomes between the two groups.
Covid-19 in pregnant women can damage the placenta and the fetus
Pregnant women infected with Covid-19 may experience varying degrees of damage to their placentas, potentially harming fetal development and health. The study found that pre-Omicron variants caused more severe lesions than Omicron subvariants.
Average pregnancy length in the US is shorter than in European countries
A new study reveals that US pregnancies are shorter than those in England and the Netherlands, with average lengths declining by over half a week between 1990 and 2020. This finding suggests that reducing medical interventions during the birthing process could improve maternity care outcomes in the US.
SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023
Mother’s health and lifestyle during pregnancy shape neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children
A new study conducted at the University of Turku found that maternal gestational diabetes mellitus may have unfavourable effects on the neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children. A healthy diet during pregnancy supports child's neurodevelopment, while higher maternal body fat percentage is associated with weaker cognitive and motor skills.
People with HIV experience higher rates of inflammation and immune activity during pregnancy
A Rutgers study found that pregnant people with HIV have higher levels of chronic systemic inflammation and immune activation, leading to poor growth in children. The study aimed to investigate the impact on babies exposed to HIV but not infected.
SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 18, 2023
WVU study shows marginalized communities benefit when states permit nurse practitioners to provide primary care
A recent study from West Virginia University found that states permitting nurse practitioners to exercise full practice authority (FPA) tend to have a more diverse and racially aligned NP workforce. In FPA states, Black NPs serve 2.8% more Black Medicare beneficiaries than in non-FPA states.
COVID-19 infection at any time during pregnancy boosts mother’s risk of death
A pooled data analysis of international evidence finds that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy nearly doubles the risk of maternal death and severe illness. Babies born to infected mothers are also at increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
Taking contraceptive advice from social media influencers could lead to unplanned pregnancies
A study analyzing YouTube videos by popular influencers with millions of followers found that many promoted stopping hormonal birth control over using it or safer alternatives. The researchers warn that this could lead to unplanned pregnancies and emphasize the need for critical evaluation of online health information.
Preterm birth linked to chemicals found in the vagina
A new study links spontaneous preterm birth to chemicals in vaginal products, revealing a potential source of the condition. Researchers discovered that metabolites from cosmetics and hygiene products were associated with preterm births, offering hope for early diagnostics.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023
How better planning, behavior regulation may lead to eating less fat
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that pregnant women who struggle with executive functions – planning and regulating their behavior – tend to consume more fat. Coaching these skills may be key to improving dietary outcomes.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Pediatrics Perinatology and Child Health·DateJan 11, 2023
Combination therapy appears safe for treating opioid use disorder during pregnancy
Researchers found that combination therapy of buprenorphine and naloxone was as safe as buprenorphine alone during pregnancy, with similar outcomes in maternal health and newborn health. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Does experiencing racism contribute to depression during pregnancy?
A recent study found that pregnant Black women who felt upset by racism in the 12 months prior to delivery had significantly higher odds of depression. The study, which analyzed survey questions from 7,328 women, also highlighted the importance of respectful maternity care.
Expanding Medicaid led to decreased postpartum hospitalizations
A new study by Brown and NYU researchers found that expanding Medicaid led to improved postpartum health for low-income birthing people. The study showed a 17% reduction in hospitalizations during the first 60 days postpartum, primarily due to decreased childbirth-related hospitalizations.
Call to address women’s reproductive needs holistically
Researchers developed a framework to address women's reproductive needs holistically, combining family planning, contraception, and preconception care. The model suggests teaching children about reproductive health in school and using social media campaigns to raise awareness of reproductive preferences.
Researchers Identify blood panel to predict placenta accreta
Researchers developed a blood test using circulating microparticle proteins to predict placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) cases as early as the second trimester. The study found five unique proteins that can distinguish PAS patients from control patients, enabling safe predication before delivery.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJan 5, 2023
Early prenatal alcohol exposure affects genes involved in embryonic development
Researchers found that early prenatal alcohol exposure changes gene function and epigenome in placenta and human embryonic stem cells. These changes are associated with altered DNA methylation patterns, particularly in genes linked to nervous system development, such as DPPA4 and FOXP2.