A systematic review of twenty-three studies suggests that sonographers can positively enhance parents' feelings towards their unborn baby by making imaging examinations a truly parent-centred experience. This approach can allay feelings of anxiety and stress in parents, helping them feel more informed and reassured about the health and...
A new study reveals that over half of hospital-based maternal deaths in the US occur during pregnancy or postpartum, rather than at delivery. Researchers are calling for a renewed focus on examining the causes of these deaths to inform clinical and policy interventions.
A study found melamine and cyanuric acid in nearly all pregnant participants' samples, with higher levels in women of color and those with greater tobacco exposure. Regulatory action is needed to limit exposure to these carcinogenic chemicals.
Scientists propose a new therapy for preeclampsia by correcting placental defects with BH4 treatment. The treatment restores placental and fetal weight, lowers blood pressure, and resolves symptoms of excess protein in urine and cardiovascular abnormalities.
A study found that genetic testing before pregnancy can detect the risk of severe developmental disorders in 44% of cases if parents are related. However, non-hereditary mutations play a larger role in children of non-consanguineous couples, and many genes remain undetected.
A study from the University of Minnesota Medical School examines support programs for pregnant and postpartum individuals in six US state prisons. The research highlights the importance of collaboration between program facilitators and prison sites in determining program success.
A population-based retrospective cohort study found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is not associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, small for gestational age at birth, or stillbirth. The study concluded that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can inform evidence-based decision-making about its safety.
A recent study by pediatric cardiologists has found that certain maternal health conditions can partially explain the racial disparities in congenital heart disease outcomes. The research assessed over 8,000 infant and mother records from diverse populations and identified placental and metabolic syndromes as contributing factors.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully grown a model embryo with a brain, beating heart, and all other organs using mouse stem cells. This breakthrough could help understand why some pregnancies fail and develop a new approach for repairing synthetic human organs.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that pregnant Gen Zers and millennials are approximately two times more likely to be newly diagnosed with high blood pressure during pregnancy. The finding highlights the need for broader screening and prevention efforts among younger people.
A new study found patterns of fetal abdominal growth associated with maternal lipid metabolites that track newborn growth, adiposity, and development into childhood. The study monitored over 3,500 babies from birth to 2 years of age, providing insights into the complex interaction between maternal and fetal nutrition early in pregnancy.
Researchers at Temple University hospital found that maternal-fetal mortality can be reduced to zero through patient-tailored management of right heart function prior to delivery. Women with pulmonary hypertension who received specialized care had excellent outcomes, with 100% survival for mothers and infants.
A new study found no difference in sexual enjoyment between women who gave birth via caesarean section and those who delivered vaginally. However, women who had a caesarean section were more likely to report sex-related pain at later stages postpartum.
The UK government's current proposal to fortify flour with folic acid is inadequate, as it suggests a low dose that would fail to prevent hundreds of cases of severe birth defects each year. Increasing the dose could prevent about 80% of neural tube defects.
A case-control study found that pregnant women with higher folate levels are at a lower risk of having children with congenital heart disease. The researchers measured red blood cell folate levels and found that those with CHD had significantly lower median levels than those without CHD.
A study published in Neurology found that pregnant women with epilepsy have more symptoms of depression and anxiety than those without epilepsy or pregnant women with epilepsy. The study highlights the importance of screening and treating depression and anxiety in pregnant women with epilepsy.
A new prenatal test called STORK can determine if a fetus or embryo has the right number of chromosomes in under two hours, reducing time and cost. The test is about 10 times less expensive to process per sample and can improve treatment options for women trying to get pregnant.
A study published in Lancet Regional Health – Americas found that malaria in pregnancy is still a major public health problem in the North of Brazil, with younger women being most at risk. The researchers believe that expansion of healthcare services and inclusion of artemisinin in therapeutic schemes contributed to the decline in cases.
A West Virginia University study explores the link between pregnancy, sedentary behavior, and cardiovascular disease risk in women. The research aims to investigate whether physical activity can reduce or eliminate this accelerated risk development in women.
Researchers used multiple 'omics' techniques to evaluate spindle transfer, a new IVF option that avoids mitochondrial disease inheritance. The study found no significant differences in DNA copy number or RNA expression profiles between spindle transfer and control embryos.
The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with small but significant increases in pregnancy-related complications and maternal death during delivery hospitalization. The number of live births also decreased by 5.2% during this period.
A nationwide study found a significant increase in maternal death, cardiovascular disorders, and obstetric hemorrhage during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million pregnant patients and attributed the poor outcomes to pandemic-related stress, disruptions in prenatal care, and limitations on routine check-ups.
A large Canadian study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal suggests COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are safe to use in pregnancy. Pregnant women who received the vaccine experienced lower rates of health events post-vaccination compared to non-pregnant vaccinated individuals.
A new study suggests that tocolytics can safely delay preterm births and reduce neonatal deaths worldwide. The analysis of 122 clinical trials found benefits for all preterm delay treatments, with some side effects noted.
Researchers have discovered that Piezo1 is responsible for regulating the uterus's behavior during pregnancy, keeping it relaxed and ensuring proper expansion. The identification of Piezo1 paves the way for developing drugs and therapies to treat or delay preterm labour, a major cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity.
A new study finds that mild smog exposure during pregnancy is linked to higher risks of low birth weight, high blood pressure, and early water breaks. The research highlights the need for environmental protection measures to reduce air pollution's impact on pregnant women and their unborn children.
A new study reveals that air pollution and maternal stress during pregnancy can lead to altered brain development and social behavior in male mice, exhibiting autism-like traits. In contrast, female mice are not affected by these environmental factors.
A new study of over 8 million pregnancies found that pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes, postpartum hemorrhage, and other complications. IBD can also lead to longer hospital stays and increased medical costs.
Researchers found higher levels of brain cell damage and inflammation markers in women with severe preeclampsia compared to those with uncomplicated pregnancies. The study used health record data from the Rochester Epidemiology Project and explored extracellular vesicles as potential early risk indicators.
A pooled data analysis found that experience of race discrimination is associated with a heightened risk of premature birth and low birthweight. The study highlights the importance of addressing racism in healthcare to improve health outcomes for marginalized communities.
A study of 2,700 children in the Netherlands found a possible association between maternal smoking and suboptimal brain development among offspring. The research suggests that tobacco use during pregnancy may impact preadolescent brain development.
Binge drinking and heavy alcohol consumption increased significantly among pregnant women between 2011 and 2020. The average annual percentage change for these behaviors was greater among pregnant women compared to nonpregnant women.
A new study at the University of Missouri found that prenatal opioid exposure can trigger long-term neurological or behavioral effects in children. The research suggests that opioids impact the developing fetus' gut microbiome, leading to changes in metabolic pathways and potentially affecting overall health and wellness.
The NIH announced five cash prize winners and four honorable mentions in its Maternal Health Diagnostics Challenge. The winning technologies aim to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality, with a focus on detecting and differentiating common pregnancy-related conditions.
A recent Oregon State University study found that people living in socioeconomically deprived neighborhoods are 20% less likely to conceive compared to those in more resourceful areas. The study analyzed data from over 6,300 individuals and found a significant association between neighborhood disadvantage and lower fertility rates.
A new study found that a fast food diet before pregnancy can negatively impact breast milk quality and baby's health, increasing the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Even short-term consumption of high sugar and fat diets affects women's health and fertility.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that telehealth can improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction for pregnant mothers and their infants. The researchers analyzed 28 randomized controlled trials and 14 observational studies to assess the effect of telehealth-delivered care on maternal health outcomes.
A large study suggests that differences in growth, weight, and body fat levels among children conceived through fertility treatment are small and not apparent by late adolescence. The study found minimal health implications from these differences.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued a position paper on the ethical use of genetic testing and precision medicine in internal medicine. The guidelines address key issues such as incidental findings, education for physicians and patients, and counseling needs. ACP emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance and anticoag...
A Rutgers researcher contributed to a National Institutes of Health study confirming a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of preterm birth. The study examined data from 6,045 pregnant women in the U.S., finding that higher concentrations of phthalate metabolites were associated with slightly higher odds of preterm birth.
Researchers found no significant differences in placental health indicators, birth weights, or Apgar scores between vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Vaccination against COVID-19 was shown to be safe during pregnancy, protecting both mothers and babies from severe illness.
A new study estimates that over 160 million women and adolescents worldwide need contraception but lack access to it, with significant disparities in use across regions and age groups. The study found that young women, particularly those aged 15-24, face the highest levels of unmet need, amounting to 43 million globally.
Researchers found a significant association between COVID-19 infection in the third trimester and increased risk of preterm birth, with women infected after 34 weeks being seven times more likely to experience preterm birth. However, no difference was found in pregnancy loss between infected and non-infected women.
Researchers at OHSU developed an efficient and accurate assessment of placental health using standard MRI, detecting complications early in pregnancy. The method identifies T2* values that provide key information about oxygen availability and placental blood flow.
Studies in rats have found that T-cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to preeclampsia complications. Researchers are exploring ways to dampen this response to reduce the risk of premature birth or worse outcomes for mother and child.
A study by Columbia University found that diverse nurse workforces are associated with reduced risk of life-threatening complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the post-partum period. Racial and ethnic minorities face higher risks, with Native American mothers having the highest incidence of severe adverse maternal outcomes.
A recent six-country African study reveals that pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 are at double the risk of ICU admission and four times the risk of dying compared to non-pregnant counterparts. The researchers emphasize the need for pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect themselves and their unborn children.
Women with active rheumatic disease are at risk of hypertension, preeclampsia, and fetal loss during pregnancy. Effective disease management with safe medications is crucial for a successful pregnancy outcome.
A University of Ottawa-led team has developed an AI-based deep learning model to identify cystic hygroma, a rare and life-threatening disorder, from first-trimester ultrasound scans with high sensitivity and specificity. The approach may be applied to other fetal anomalies identified by ultrasonography.
Children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing infections, allergies, and other childhood illnesses by age 13. The study found that children of mothers with PCOS were 32% more likely to be admitted to hospital for various health problems.
Research shows increased risk of severe maternal sickness/complications associated with higher maternal age, levels of obesity, and previous Caesarean section. The study suggests that UK maternity services are adapting to meet the needs of an increasingly complex pregnant population.
A study published in Environmental Research found that prenatal exposure to specific phthalates is associated with a slightly elevated risk of children starting puberty between 7 and 10 years old. Higher prenatal exposure to certain phthalates, such as DEHP, was linked to an increased risk of puberty onset, particularly in normal-weigh...
A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that high-dose inhaled nitric oxide gas significantly reduced the need for supplemental oxygen and hospital stays in pregnant women with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. The therapy was administered twice daily to patients, resulting in no adverse events.
Research suggests that paternal genetic factors play a role in susceptibility to preeclampsia, but the impact of paternal phenotype and lifestyle remains unclear. The study found no significant differences in socioeconomic background or health history between fathers with preeclamptic pregnancies and those without.
SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateJul 7, 2022
A UMass Amherst researcher will investigate the link between ambient environmental factors and male fertility, focusing on air pollution and temperature. Her study aims to identify risks associated with these exposures and inform medical and behavioral interventions for men before fertility treatment.
Researchers using 'blastoids' - in vitro models of the blastocyst - discovered that early embryonic signals induce placental development and prepare the uterus. The findings may contribute to a better understanding of human fertility and potentially improve IVF procedures, fertility drugs, and contraceptives.
A recent study published in Nature has identified a complex neural network in the fruit-fly brain that shapes behavior and decision-making, particularly when it comes to food choice. The 'appetite map' created by the researchers reveals how internal states, such as nutrient deficiencies and pregnancy, interact to guide behavior.
A comprehensive study found that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children. The researchers measured 45 chemicals in pregnant women and found elevated levels of biomarkers indicating risk for liver disease in children who were more highly exposed.
A large study analyzing over 4.5 million pregnancies found that frozen embryo transfers in IVF are associated with a substantially higher risk of hypertensive disorders, particularly pre-eclampsia, compared to naturally conceived pregnancies. The risk was roughly doubled for FETs, while fresh embryo transfers had similar outcomes.
A recent study of over 5,000 women found that having a baby after breast cancer diagnosis does not negatively impact survival rates. Women who had hormone-receptor positive breast cancer and became mothers showed similar or increased survival compared to those without children.