Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A study found that low choline levels in pregnant Black American women are associated with higher levels of stress and a greater risk of premature birth. Women with lower choline levels were more likely to deliver prematurely, which can increase the risk of later mental health problems for their children.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that women who stop using some forms of contraception, such as injectable methods, may experience a temporary delay in their return to fertility. After eight months, most women are able to conceive normally again.
A recent study found that declining teenage pregnancy rates in England are related to local areas experiencing less youth unemployment, growing Black or South Asian teenage populations, and more educational attainment. The study also suggests that unaffordable housing and a lack of social housing contribute to lower conception rates.
Researchers found a 17% increase in the likelihood of having a baby with fetal macrosomia among women in relatively strenuous jobs. The study highlights potential inadequacies in workplace accommodation laws and urges lawmakers to consider the impact on maternal and fetal health.
Pregnancy-related high blood pressure rates have increased by nearly 50% nationwide, with rural women facing higher risks. The study highlights the need for preventative care before pregnancy, particularly in rural areas where access to quality care is limited.
Researchers at USask are conducting a groundbreaking study to investigate the impact of maternal cannabis use during pregnancy on fetal brain development. They will be testing the hypothesis that chronic exposure to high-THC cannabis leads to increased anxiety and reduced cognition in rat pups.
A study found that vitamin D status during pregnancy is associated with altered gene expression in the placenta, which may contribute to the development of preeclampsia. The researchers also observed a correlation between sFLT1 and VEGF gene expression levels.
A new study found that pregnant women with obesity can alter their children's DNA through diet and lifestyle modifications, reducing the risk of metabolic disease. The research suggests that a healthy diet and increased physical activity during pregnancy can have a positive impact on infant health.
A new study suggests that eliminating out-of-pocket costs for contraception is linked to more consistent contraceptive use and lower birth rates across all income groups. The most significant decline was observed among people from the lowest income group, experiencing a 22% drop in births.
Researchers from the University of Seville found that AI can detect birth defects, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth earlier using data on environmental pollution. AI systems can also help monitor women's mental health during pregnancy, improving public health in disadvantaged areas.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found associations between exposure to high temperatures in pregnancy and increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. The study analyzed data from 70 studies across 27 countries and found that the odds of preterm birth rose by 5% per 1°C increase in temperature.
The ACA's Medicaid expansion improved preconception health indicators for low-income women, including increased health counseling and daily folic acid intake. While no changes were found in chronic condition prevalence or health behaviors, the expansion may help address risk factors for maternal and child health.
A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that mothers' vitamin D levels during pregnancy were associated with their children's IQ scores. The study also identified significantly lower levels of vitamin D among Black pregnant women, emphasizing the need for targeted nutritional interventions to address health disparities.
A recent study conducted at Columbia University Irving Medical Center suggests that multidisciplinary cardio-obstetrics teams can improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce hospital readmission rates among pregnant women with cardiovascular disease. The study found low rates of maternal and fetal complications, as well as a lower rate of ho...
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that poor women in Dhaka slums are unwilling to give birth at maternal facilities due to fears of undocumented payments, lack of support and cultural perceptions. The study highlights the importance of providing pregnant women with information to break free from these fears.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified several biomarkers that can predict the risk of preeclampsia from a blood sample drawn at 12 weeks gestation. The study also found possible subtypes of preeclampsia linked to platelet dysfunction and complement system dysfunction.
A large American study found that pregnant mothers with low thyroid hormone levels are more likely to have children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study of 329,157 children showed that Hispanic children born to hypothyroid mothers were at highest risk.
New research found that IVF success rates are higher at clinics sharing more data than required, leading to healthier babies. Clinics with high transparency had greater success rates in achieving pregnancy and birth.
A Durham University study found that e-cigarette use during pregnancy may lead to abnormal reflexes and impaired brain development in babies. The researchers recommend that mothers avoid using e-cigarettes or traditional cigarettes during pregnancy.
Research by Imperial College London finds severe morning sickness increases the risk of depression during and after pregnancy, affecting nearly half of women with hyperemesis gravidarum.
A new study by neuroscientists at Washington State University found that regular cannabis exposure in rats during pregnancy may cause long-term cognitive deficiencies, asocial behavior, and anxiety in their offspring. The research also revealed significant behavioral changes and cognitive deficits that persisted into adulthood.
Researchers studied aortic dissections in pregnant women, finding 19% associated with pregnancy and increased risk of Type A dissections. The study highlights the importance of careful monitoring of cardiac conditions during pregnancy.
Researchers have developed a blood test that uses cell-free DNA to predict pregnancy complications such as ischemic placental disease and gestational diabetes. The study found that certain genetic signatures in the mother's blood during the first trimester can indicate these serious complications.
Research suggests that psychological distress during pregnancy may be linked to a heightened risk of asthma and poorer lung function in children. The study found that mothers' overall psychological distress was associated with a 45-92% increased risk of current asthma in their children, while fathers' symptoms had no association.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that over 40% of women experience constipation during pregnancy and right after childbirth. Daily exercise, balanced diet, and hydration can help prevent constipation. Lifestyle changes may not be enough to alleviate symptoms, with laxatives needed in some cases.
A new study from Imperial College London found that one in 12 partners experience post-traumatic stress after miscarriage, with symptoms persisting for up to nine months. The research highlights the need for improved psychological support for both women and their partners following pregnancy loss.
A new study by UCSF researchers uses exome sequencing to identify genetic diseases as the underlying cause in 37 cases of nonimmune hydrops fetalis, a life-threatening condition. The study finds that genetic diagnoses are critical for families and healthcare providers to guide prenatal management strategies.
Researchers found that excessive folic acid intake during pregnancy can have detrimental effects on the brain development of embryos. The study suggests a 'Goldilocks effect,' where too little or too much folic acid is harmful, and more investigation is needed to determine the optimal dosage for pregnant women.
A nationwide analysis suggests that pregnant women who undergo immediate surgery for ruptured or abscessed appendix have significantly better outcomes than those managed without an operation. Immediate surgery reduces the risk of serious complications, including loss of the fetus and mother's death.
A UNICEF study reports that 800 million children have high lead values in their blood, posing permanent brain damage risks. The study highlights the need for international measures to address lead exposure, particularly among marginalized groups.
PATH will lead an international collaboration to optimize Cry5B protein as an inexpensive, broad-spectrum antiparasitic treatment suitable for adults, children, and pregnant women. The goal is to expand anthelmintic MDA campaigns and reduce the global burden of STH infections.
Researchers analyzed data from over 3.6 million women to identify differences in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among US states. The study found significant variations in prevalence rates, suggesting regional disparities in maternal health care.
A new study of 388 pregnancies in 22 countries found that COVID-19 infection during early pregnancy significantly increases risk of adverse fetal outcomes. Only one baby tested positive for the disease and was asymptomatic, suggesting rare transmission from mother to child.
A new study published in eLife suggests a link between unexplained miscarriages and how women perceive men's body odor. Women with a history of uRPL were found to have an altered perception and brain response to male body odors, including improved ability to identify their spouse by smell.
A new study found that chain pharmacies in West Virginia are more likely to stock emergency contraception than independent pharmacies. The researchers also found that many pharmacies have inadequate knowledge about the effectiveness of Plan B and can be intimidating for customers seeking it.
Researchers analyzed urine samples from 100 pregnant women to detect DINCH metabolites, finding concentrations in most samples but no evidence of hormone disruption. The study found higher concentrations in African American women compared to Caucasian women, highlighting the need for further research on potential disparities.
Research finds that even low levels of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can impact a child's brain development, leading to anxiety, depression, and poor attention. The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, suggests that any alcohol use during pregnancy is associated with subtle yet significant behavioural and psyc...
Researchers found that placenta cells start to develop shortly after fertilization, triggering a cascade of molecular events. This discovery could lead to improvements in fertility treatments and a better understanding of placental-related diseases during pregnancy.
Researchers found that the combination of alcohol and nicotine alters gene regulatory pathways in developing fetuses, leading to major deficiencies in brain development. This can cause synaptic rearrangements and lead to neurological disorders.
A UCLA study reveals that a mother's gut microbiota plays a crucial role in fetal neurodevelopment. The research found that depleting the maternal gut microbiota during pregnancy disrupted fetal brain development, including reduced axon growth and impaired sensory behaviors.
A new study has investigated the association between a positive SARS-CoV-2 test during pregnancy and complications in mothers and their newborn babies. The researchers found no higher prevalence of complications during delivery or of ill-health in the neonates, but did note a higher prevalence of preeclampsia in infected women.
Researchers investigated cannabis use during pregnancy and found associations with childhood cognition, social problems and brain structure. The study suggests that marijuana use during pregnancy may have long-term effects on children's development.
Research finds prenatal cannabis exposure associated with elevated psychopathology, depression, anxiety, impulsivity, attention problems, social issues, sleep disturbances, and lower cognitive performance in middle childhood. Exposure after maternal knowledge of pregnancy also linked to child outcomes.
A recent study found that donor-conceived adults have a higher incidence of immunology diseases, including seven times more type 1 diabetes diagnoses and double the incidence of thyroid disease. The study suggests an altered immunological system may be driving these health conditions.
A new pre-clinical study suggests that the flu virus spreads throughout a pregnant woman's body, triggering a hyperactive immune response. The research found that the virus enters the circulatory system via blood vessels, leading to severe inflammation and reduced blood flow to the placenta.
A new study finds that early age-appropriate discussions about safe sex lead to fewer unintended pregnancies and better long-term sexual health. Black male teens who had their first sex before age 13 reported more negative behaviors and poorer relationship quality with parents.
A 20-year study by University of Queensland researchers found that child neglect was the most severe type of maltreatment associated with teen pregnancy, as well as poor educational and psychological outcomes. Neglected children were also more likely to experience substance abuse problems and psychotic episodes.
Researchers analyzed data to find that preventive measures like prenatal care and hospital births can significantly decrease the occurrence of fistulas. The study highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to address this significant public health issue in Uganda.
This observational study found that preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The study controlled for traditional risk factors, highlighting the importance of considering pregnancy outcomes in cardiovascular health.
A study of 607 women with severe migraines found 20% avoid pregnancy due to perceived risks, despite evidence that migraine improves in up to 75% during pregnancy. Women with menstrual-related attacks are more likely to delay family planning.
A comprehensive international study found that pregnancy can delay the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) by more than 3 years. The study used a global database of over 70,000 MS patients and suggested that pregnancy may reduce abnormal immune system activity that causes MS.
Researchers found a 13% increase in long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) prescriptions and a 17% decrease in non-LARC prescriptions after financial incentives for GPs. This led to a 38% reduction in abortions, equivalent to 95,170 fewer abortions than expected.
A study led by King's College London found that pregnant women with obesity who received a diet and exercise intervention showed improved cardiovascular function in their children at three years old. Mothers also maintained healthier diets three years after delivery.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that mothers' ability to cope with stress during pregnancy is positively correlated with their children's telomere length. This suggests that maternal psychological resilience may have a protective effect on child development and lifelong health.
A recent study discovered that pregnant women in China were significantly worried about their health, their baby's health, and the risks of transmission. Women's psychological responses to the outbreak increased pregnancy stress while decreasing sense of security.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that Medicaid expansion reduces the percentage of low-income women going uninsured or changing insurance plans during pregnancy and postpartum. The findings suggest that expanding Medicaid can improve access to care and reduce adverse events for pregnant women.
Research suggests that growth-restricted fetuses metabolize drugs differently due to reduced enzyme efficiency, putting them at increased risk of long-term health consequences. The 'one size fits all' approach to medication dosing during pregnancy may not be effective for all women and their babies.
Research at Hiroshima University found that mice offspring of mothers on high omega-6 fat diets show hedonic consumption of hyper-caloric diets, driven by dopamine release in the brain. This imbalance primes offspring for obesity.
A large Swedish-Norwegian study involving over two million pregnancies found no association between modafinil use and an increased risk of fetal malformations. The study, published in JAMA, compared exposure to modafinil during early pregnancy with non-exposure, finding a relative risk of 1.06, which was not statistically significant.
A study published in The BMJ found that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to need intensive care and give birth prematurely compared to non-pregnant women. Maternal risk factors include increasing age, high body mass index, and pre-existing medical conditions.