Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A study published in Nature Metabolism reveals that dopamine and compulsive eating behavior play a crucial role in food cravings during pregnancy. The researchers found that female mice develop binge-eating behaviors towards high-calorie foods due to changes in brain reward circuits and taste sensors.
Researchers found a 20% reduction in severe preeclampsia, preterm birth, abruption, and fetal or newborn death among women treated with antihypertensives. The benefits remained after controlling for other factors.
A new study found that infant monkeys conceived while their mothers were exposed to wildfire smoke showed increased inflammation, memory deficits, and a more passive temperament compared to those conceived later. The effects suggest that some component of wildfire smoke can act as a teratogen, affecting fetal development.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center discovered that a combination of two anti-inflammatory drugs may prevent lung damage and asthma in infants born prematurely due to chorioamnionitis. The study used animal models, but further research is needed to confirm the results.
A recent study found that child abuse investigations by Child Protective Services (CPS) do not necessarily prevent poor sexual health outcomes in adolescent girls. In fact, the researchers discovered that girls who underwent investigation were more likely to experience adverse sexual health outcomes, including STIs and pregnancy, befor...
Researchers at CRCHUM discover that cell division in mouse embryos occurs asymmetrically, with cytokinesis primarily pinched from one side. This finding challenges traditional textbook views of cell division and may have implications for embryo viability and human fertility.
Researchers analyzed nearly 100,000 pregnancies and found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and poor birth outcomes. The study provides further evidence on the safety of mRNA vaccines for pregnant individuals.
Research reveals stark inequalities in long-term health outcomes for Black and South Asian women with a history of gestational diabetes. The study found that these women are up to three times more likely to develop certain health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A large birth cohort study of 3.4 million children found that prenatal antipsychotic exposure is not the primary cause of increased risk of neurodevelopment disorders. Maternal characteristics appear to be a contributing factor, suggesting that antipsychotic drugs may have more subtle effects on fetal development.
A population study found a significant link between mothers' exposure to disinfectants during pregnancy and their children's risk of developing asthma or eczema. The study, published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine, suggests that prenatal exposure to disinfectants may exert an effect on allergies in offspring.
Pregnant women with anorexia are at higher risk of stillbirth, underweight baby, or pre-term birth. A new set of guidelines provides recommendations for multidisciplinary management to ensure optimal outcomes for women and their infants.
A large-scale registry study found no association between COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and increased risk of preterm birth, growth retardation, or neonatal care. Vaccination was associated with a slightly lower risk of neonatal care and provided protection against COVID-19 for the newborn.
Scientists have developed a non-hormonal male contraceptive that effectively prevents pregnancy in mice, targeting the retinoic acid receptor alpha protein. The compound YCT529 was found to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancy without observable side effects, paving the way for human clinical trials.
A comprehensive study of nearly 400 preterm children born before 24 weeks gestation found a high prevalence of neuropsychiatric and somatic diagnoses. The research emphasizes the importance of providing long-term habilitation and support for these children, who are at risk of developing long-term health problems.
A recent study found that obese pregnant women are at a higher risk of experiencing stillbirth or neonatal death. The research revealed that over 60% of this increased risk is associated with deliveries occurring at an earlier gestational age, highlighting the importance of careful prenatal care and monitoring.
A new video tool aims to help mothers understand that stillbirth is not their fault by explaining the aging process of the placenta. The research identifies that unexplained stillbirth is often due to 'aging of the placenta,' which is complex and not affected by the mother's behavior.
A Kaiser Permanente analysis found that pregnant patients with COVID-19 were at twice the risk of poor outcomes, including preterm birth and venous thromboembolism. The study also showed a significant increase in severe maternal morbidity, including conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome and sepsis.
A new study found that fewer than 2% of babies born to mothers with COVID-19 test positive for the virus, but those with severe cases or diagnosed after childbirth are more likely to be infected. Vaginal births and breastfeeding do not increase the risk of transmission.
A study analyzing data from 159 countries found that raising tobacco taxes is associated with a significant reduction in neonatal and infant mortality rates. The research suggests that implementing recommended WHO tobacco tax rates could lead to substantial decreases in these deaths, potentially saving up to 231,220 infant lives annually.
A blood test may identify risk of stillbirth and placentitis in pregnant individuals who have had COVID-19. The finding could improve care for high-risk pregnancies and lead to the development of a new screening tool.
A new study confirms that abnormalities in the GDF15 gene are involved in hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition causing severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. The discovery may lead to targeted treatments and improved care for women with HG.
A study by American College of Cardiology reveals that childbearing women cardiologists face discriminatory violations of maternity leave practices, with 75% experiencing potential illegal violations. The survey found a significantly higher rate of pregnancy complications among these women compared to the general population.
A new study by Japanese researchers at Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine found a correlation between maternal lead exposure and an increase in male births. The research suggests that even low levels of lead can affect the sex ratio of offspring, potentially contributing to Japan's declining proportion of male births.
A randomized study of 379 women with obesity and unexplained infertility found that intensive lifestyle changes that shed pounds led to no better chances of pregnancy than simply increasing physical activity without weight loss. The study also showed significant health benefits from weight loss, including a decrease in metabolic syndrome.
A recent study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that birthing parents are at a higher risk of financial burden due to out-of-pocket medical costs, with low-income families facing the highest risks. Public health insurance, including Medicaid, was associated with lower risks of catastrophic health expenditures.
Despite an overall decline in stillbirth rates across the UK, black and South Asian communities continue to experience higher rates of stillbirths compared to the rest of the population. Placental issues and birth defects are key causes of stillbirths in these groups, but the underlying cause remains unknown in more than half of cases.
A meta-analysis of over 3,000 studies found that women with one ovary have a 30% lower chance of becoming pregnant and giving birth after IVF. The study suggests that surgical removal of an ovary has an adverse effect on fertility.
Aging egg cells accumulate damage to genetic material, preventing maturation and fertilization. Researchers have identified a key process causing this damage and found that anti-viral drugs can reverse it.
The placenta plays an active role in transferring vitamin D to the fetus during pregnancy, according to a new study. The research found that the placenta takes up vitamin D through endocytosis, which enables it to deliver this essential nutrient to the developing fetus.
Researchers find that nearly 20% of sperm proteins are replaced by female-derived proteins after mating, supporting sperm viability during prolonged periods before fertilization. This 'hand-off' reveals that sperm are materially the product of both sexes.
A new Northwestern University study found that pregnant women often continue to experience depression and anxiety symptoms even with antidepressant treatment. The study suggests that these women require closer monitoring during pregnancy and postpartum to tailor their treatment and alleviate symptoms.
A study of predominantly low-income Hispanic/Latina women found that diets high in solid fat, refined grains and cheese increased the likelihood of preeclampsia, while diets rich in non-starchy vegetables, oils and fruit may lower blood pressure risk during pregnancy
A recent study published in BMJ Open found that many women with preeclampsia lack awareness about symptoms and long-term cardiovascular risks, underscoring the need for improved patient education and support. The research team surveyed over 800 pregnant women, revealing a significant gap in mental health support and preventive measures.
Researchers have discovered signature epigenetic biomarkers in mothers and fathers of preterm infants, which may lead to a non-invasive test to predict preterm birth. This could help prevent premature births and their related health impacts on infants.
Research from Tufts University scientists finds that opioid exposure in mothers can lead to metabolic disorders and type 2 diabetes in their sons. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that even short-term use of opioids before pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on the health of future generations.
Demand for self-managed medication abortion skyrocketed after Texas Senate Bill 8 was enacted, with many women seeking the procedure due to limited access to clinics
A Michigan study found that Black pregnant women were twice as likely to contract COVID-19 as white women, with all infected pregnant people at a higher risk of early preeclampsia. COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is safe and effective, protecting both mothers and babies.
A recent study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica has found that severe COVID-19 in pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes, including preterm birth and stillbirths. The research highlights the importance of vaccination against severe disease to protect both mothers and babies.
A new study of over 1.1 million new mothers worldwide found that first-time mothers, women under 25, and mothers of twins are at higher risk for postpartum depression. Women aged 40 and older having twins are particularly vulnerable to the condition.
A new study has found that tubal ligation is no more effective than an intrauterine device (IUD) in preventing pregnancies. The six-year analysis of Medi-Cal claims data showed that hormonal IUDs were more effective, while copper IUDs were as effective as tubal ligation in preventing pregnancies.
A new study found that assisted reproductive technology (ART) is independently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and pregnancy-related complications. Women conceiving through ART may be at higher risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and future cardiovascular disease.
A study of vaginal births in New York State hospitals found that labor neuraxial analgesia – having an epidural or combined spinal and epidural – was associated with a decreased risk of severe maternal morbidity. The use of epidural anesthesia was linked to a 14% reduction in the risk of severe maternal morbidity, with racial and ethni...
A $3.9 million research project will examine COVID-19's impact on pregnancy, maternal health, and infant development in diverse communities across Pennsylvania. The study aims to identify associations between COVID-19, psychological distress, and long-term maternal health outcomes.
Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.
A UMass Amherst researcher has received a $3 million grant to study the complex interplay of risk factors for autism, including early life exposure to environmental pollutants and genetic susceptibility. The study aims to better understand how multiple pollutants and the folate system are associated with autistic traits.
Researchers at UC Davis MIND Institute found a novel gene linked to autism spectrum disorder in newborns. The study analyzed DNA methylation signatures in the placenta, which reflected fetal brain development and early autism diagnosis.
New research links structural sexism and anti-LGB stigma with increased risk of preterm birth and decreased birth weight, regardless of the mother's sexual orientation. The study found that these systemic issues can limit access to reproductive health care and socioeconomic opportunities, contributing to adverse birth outcomes.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that more than half of young women in the US have at least one risk factor for poor heart health before pregnancy. Optimizing heart health before and during pregnancy can prevent complications, deliver a healthy baby, and even reduce the risk of heart disease years later.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that blood levels of seven out of ten commonly used anticonvulsant medications dropped dramatically during pregnancy, leading to breakthrough seizures. The study aims to improve outcomes in women with epilepsy by better managing their medications over the course of pregnancy.
A new study finds that federally funded comprehensive sex education programs led to a significant decline in teenage pregnancy rates, with an average reduction of over 3 percent. The research analyzed data from 55 counties that received funding and compared them to over 2,800 unfunded counties.
Research found that pregnant women with sleep apnea are at a higher risk for developing hypertension and metabolic syndrome after delivery. A study of over 1,900 women found that those with persistent sleep apnea were three times more likely to develop hypertension and two times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome.
A large population-based study found that newborns of vaccinated women have similar outcomes as those of unvaccinated women. The observational design limits the interpretation of the findings, suggesting further research is needed.
A new study found that only 57% of Georgia pharmacies carry Plan B, while less than 1% carry the more effective ulipristal acetate. Rural pharmacies were less likely to have Plan B, highlighting existing disparities in reproductive health care access.
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that rapid weight gain in pregnant women during the first and final months may lead to higher body mass index measurements, larger waist circumferences, and higher body fat percentages in their daughters by age 14. Researchers connected patterns of weight change in pregnancy to p...
A nationwide study led by University of Utah Health found that pregnant individuals infected with COVID-19 are about 40% more likely to develop serious complications or die during pregnancy than those who aren't infected. The severity of COVID-19 symptoms was a key indicator of heightened risk of pregnancy complications.
A study found that risks of preterm birth, infant sepsis, and other adverse outcomes associated with CIN-3 treatment have decreased over time. Pregnancies after CIN-3 treatment should be managed as 'high risk' to reduce these risks.
A recent study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy results in higher and more lasting antibody levels in infants. After two months, 98% of vaccinated infants had detectable IgG antibodies, while only 8% of uninfected mothers' babies did.
A large study analyzed administrative health data from Ontario and found a low risk of major anomalies with tramadol and morphine, minor anomalies with codeine, hydromorphone, and oxycodone exposure. The study highlights the need to consider both the benefits and harms of opioid treatment during pregnancy.
A recent NIH-funded study found that pregnant women with COVID-19 are at a greater risk for common pregnancy complications, including cesarean delivery and preterm birth. The study also highlighted the importance of vaccination to protect pregnant women and their babies.
Women treated for cervical neoplasia grade 3 show declining risks of preterm birth, neonatal sepsis, and infant death after treatment. The study suggests that these high-risk pregnancies should be managed with careful consideration.