Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A recent study on Zika virus found that individuals who thought they knew more about the threat were actually more likely to feel uncertain and anxious. The researchers suggest that public health agencies should focus on providing ongoing updates and shaping messages that encourage people to stay informed, as uncertainty can fuel fears...
Early-career family physicians with maternity care and buprenorphine prescribing skills are undertrained, posing risks for pregnant women with opioid use disorder. Family medicine residencies must prioritize training in treating substance use disorder during pregnancy to address rising maternal mortality rates.
A recent NIH-funded study found that pregnant African adolescent girls and young women have significantly lower concentrations of the PrEP drug tenofovir compared to non-pregnant individuals. The study suggests that daily PrEP adherence is crucial for this population, despite potential physiological changes during pregnancy.
A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that women who had late abortions experienced a higher risk of extremely preterm birth. The research included over 418,000 first-time mothers and observed an increased risk of very low birthweight among those with late abortion(s) compared to early abortion(s).
Scientists at the University of Alberta found that prenatal fruit exposure enhances memory consolidation in infants, suggesting a nonpharmacological intervention to improve infant cognition. The study replicated previous findings in humans and fruit flies, offering valuable information for pregnant mothers.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that pregnant women with depression are more than 3 times more likely to use cannabis. The study, based on nationally representative data, also revealed that depression increases vulnerability to cannabis use even among those who perceive substantial risk.
Researchers discovered that female swamp wallabies are permanently pregnant throughout their lives due to two uteri, allowing for continuous embryonic development. This unique reproductive strategy enables females to return to oestrus in late pregnancy and conceive new embryos.
Researchers found that swamp wallabies ovulate and mate while still pregnant, suggesting continuous pregnancy throughout their lives. This unique reproductive strategy challenges the traditional view of marsupial reproduction and may have implications for our understanding of female fertility.
A study of over 6,000 newborn babies found that longer pregnancies are associated with chemical DNA changes in thousands of genes. These epigenetic modifications may influence fetal organ development and potentially affect the health of premature birth children.
Researchers confirm swamp wallabies ovulate and mate while carrying a full-term fetus, creating a unique reproductive strategy that supports continuous embryo development. This phenomenon allows the female to be pregnant throughout her reproductive life, exceeding the duration of the oestrous cycle.
A high sugar diet during pregnancy can lead to increased progesterone levels and changes in dopamine function, which may affect mother-pup interaction and long-term mental health. The study suggests that limiting added sugars to 5-10% of daily calories may have benefits for metabolic and hormone health.
A new study found pregnancies among women with disabilities are 42% more likely to be unintended, linked to societal views on sexuality and parenting. Women with independent living challenges, hearing loss, or cognitive disability showed higher proportions of unintended pregnancy.
A mother's gut microbiota can influence her offspring's energy homeostasis and metabolism. Research using mouse models suggests that targeting the maternal microbiota could be a preemptive strategy to protect against metabolic diseases.
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland analyzed data from 1.4 million births and found that quitting smoking during the first trimester reduces low birth weight risk but doesn't fully prevent smaller brain size and body length issues. The study highlights the importance of quitting smoking before pregnancy to minimize lo...
A new study by researchers at University of California San Diego identified a strong link between heatwave exposure and increased risk of preterm delivery. The study found that longer duration heatwaves were associated with the highest risk of preterm birth, while ambient humidity also played a role in exacerbating the issue.
Researchers from NIST and Griffith University developed a new test that measures multiple hormones simultaneously, providing a more reliable marker of pregnancy. This technique improves the accuracy of hormone tests, enabling biologists to better understand whale populations and their environmental health.
A study found that macrolide antibiotics prescribed during early pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of major birth defects, particularly cardiovascular malformations. Alternative antibiotics should be used instead until further research is available.
A large observational study found an association between cannabis use during pregnancy and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and trauma diagnoses. The study analyzed data from over 1 million women screened for prenatal cannabis use in California.
A recent study found that a quarter of local maternity services in England lack midwifery units (MUs), and women face barriers when trying to access them. The research identified several factors contributing to low MU use, including a lack of information and misconceptions about their safety and cost.
A NIH study suggests that mothers who are obese before pregnancy may be more likely to report their child having ADHD symptoms. Nearly 2,000 children were analyzed, revealing that women of normal weight have a significantly lower risk of reporting these symptoms.
A UK study found that mothers prescribed macrolide antibiotics during pregnancy were at higher risk of having children with cardiovascular and genital malformations. The study suggests avoiding macrolides during pregnancy when alternative antibiotics can be used.
Researchers have found that natural antioxidant L-ergothioneine can relieve some clinical symptoms of Pre-eclampsia in rats, including reduced blood pressure and fetal growth restriction. Further study is needed to validate its safety and efficacy in humans.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that fewer than 1 in 4 Tennessee infants exposed to hepatitis C at birth were tested, highlighting inadequate testing rates. The study also revealed disparities in testing rates based on the mother's racial background, with African American mothers being tested less frequently.
A computational study identified lansoprazole and 12 other FDA-approved drugs that reduce inflammation and may prevent preterm birth. The drugs act on biological pathways affecting the immune response, which is implicated in preterm birth. Further testing is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
A new study from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University found that pregnant urban African American and immigrant Afro-Caribbean women can improve access to prenatal health information through the use of mhealth apps like Text4baby. The study showed a 14% increase in intent to use the app and a 28% increase in intent to speak with pr...
A study at the University of Queensland found that a non-invasive treatment can maintain or restore egg quality and alleviate the biggest barrier to pregnancy for older women. The treatment uses a metabolic compound to boost energy levels in cells, which were found to be lower in older female mice.
A small observational study found no evidence of intrauterine transmission of the new coronavirus and similar symptoms to non-pregnant adults. The study results were based on nine pregnant women with COVID-19 infection, all of whom gave birth via cesarean section.
Researchers found a positive correlation between butylparaben exposure and increased body-mass index in children until their eighth birthday. Parabens may disrupt the regulation of natural satiety in the brain through epigenetic modifications, leading to higher food intake.
Legal epidemiology examines how law affects disease and injury in a population. Research studies, such as those on community health workers and pregnancy-specific alcohol policies, provide key evidence to inform policy decisions.
A recent study by MUSC Health found that telemedicine can be an effective way to reach pregnant women with opioid use disorder, with no significant differences in maternal and newborn outcomes compared to in-person care. Integrated, collaborative care models are crucial for treating this chronic disease, and telemedicine maximizes the ...
A study by NIH researchers found that higher maternal blood pressure during pregnancy is associated with chemical modifications to placental genes, including DNA methylation. The findings suggest a potential link between early origins of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure in pregnancy.
The DELIVER trial examines the safety of PrEP and a dapivirine vaginal ring in pregnant women, providing critical data for HIV prevention choices. The study will enroll 750 healthy, HIV-negative women aged 18-40 years and assess the acceptability and feasibility of these tools.
A study found a significant association between low maternal vitamin D levels during early to mid-pregnancy and an increased risk of diagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research used the Finnish Maternity Cohort, which included 1,067 children with ADHD and their matched controls.
A new study called DELIVER will enroll 750 healthy, HIV-negative pregnant women to test the safety of two HIV prevention methods: a monthly dapivirine vaginal ring and daily Truvada. The study aims to provide much-needed information about these products' safety in pregnant women, an area currently lacking in data.
A study found nearly 4 out of 10 women readmitted for high blood pressure had no prior history. All women should be educated on postpartum hypertension before discharge.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that pregnant and postpartum women in Louisiana are at a higher risk of experiencing a homicide. The research team analyzed vital records data from 2016-17, revealing an estimated rate of 12.9 per 100,000 compared to other causes of maternal death.
A study of Danish women found a peak risk for hypertensive disorders in spring and summer, peaking midsummer. Vitamin D levels may explain the seasonal variation.
A study by Northwestern Medicine and CDC found that unmarried mothers with paternal involvement are more likely to breastfeed and engage in protective health behaviors. This is compared to married mothers who also experience benefits from their partner's presence, suggesting a positive impact of fatherhood on maternal health.
A Washington State University study found that pregnant women use marijuana to manage health issues and reduce stress, with many feeling stigmatized by healthcare providers. The research emphasizes the need for patient-centered care and more information on marijuana's safety during pregnancy.
Researchers found that pregnant women in poor countries with lower access to education and employment are more likely to experience stillbirths. The study mapped global patterns of stillbirth rates and identified 37 countries with high rates, including Nigeria and Pakistan.
A vaccine clinical trial for pregnant women with malaria has shown promising results, demonstrating safety and an appropriate immune response. The PRIMVAC vaccine was found to be well-tolerated and induced antibodies capable of recognizing the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.
A study by Tulane University found that homicide was a leading cause of death among pregnant and postpartum women in Louisiana. The researchers estimated that for every 100,000 pregnant or postpartum women, there were 12.9 homicide deaths, outnumbering deaths from any single obstetric cause.
A recent study examines the causes of death among pregnant and postpartum women in Louisiana, revealing a disturbing trend. Homicide was found to be a leading cause of death for these women, highlighting a pressing need for increased support and resources to address this critical public health issue.
Researchers found that giving progesterone to women with early pregnancy bleeding and a history of miscarriage can increase their chances of having a baby. The treatment is estimated to cost £204 per pregnancy and could lead to an additional 8,450 live births per year.
A recent study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that US birth weights have fallen significantly due to increasing rates of cesarean deliveries and inductions. The average length of pregnancy decreased from 40 weeks to 39 weeks, resulting in a decline of 67 grams (about 2.4 oz) in baby weight over 23 years.
A Swedish study found that infants born to mothers who smoked during early pregnancy have a small increased risk of fractures before age 1. However, the association disappears after age 5, suggesting smoking has only short-term effects on bone health. The study followed over 1.6 million offspring from birth to young adulthood.
A study by Dr. Raylene Reimer found that low-calorie sweeteners increased body fat and disrupted gut microbiota in offspring, even when consumed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The findings suggest a potential link between artificial sweeteners and obesity risk in early life.
A comprehensive review of 23 studies on drinking alcohol during pregnancy found evidence that it can lead to poorer cognitive functioning and lower birthweight. The findings reinforce the UK Chief Medical Officers' DRYMESTER guidelines, which recommend abstaining from alcohol in all trimesters.
A large clinical trial has found that low-dose aspirin daily from early pregnancy to 36 weeks may lower the risk for preterm birth among first-time mothers by 11%. The study involved over 11,000 women in several low- and middle-income countries and showed a significant reduction in preterm delivery before 37 weeks.
A new study found that women who breastfed their infants exclusively had a lower risk of early menopause compared to those who did not. The study, which observed over 108,000 women, also found that longer breastfeeding times were associated with a lower risk of early menopause.
A study by Flinders University found rising levels of reported antenatal depression in low and middle-income countries. Antenatal depression is associated with increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, highlighting the need for more services, particularly in low-income economies.
A new study finds that children born to mothers who both drank and smoked beyond the first trimester of pregnancy have a 12-fold increased risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The study also shows that prenatal alcohol exposure, particularly from heavy drinking during pregnancy, can increase SIDS risk.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that regular cannabis use during pregnancy can lead to reduced birth weight by up to 8% and decreased brain and liver growth. The researchers used a rat model and human placental cells to demonstrate the impact of THC on fetal development.
A new CU Boulder-led study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that judges deny minors' abortion requests with impunity, potentially due to personal political biases. The study analyzed data from Texas over 18 years and found that judges denied cases by up to 13%.
A new computer algorithm can predict in early pregnancy or before pregnancy which women are at high risk of gestational diabetes. The study analyzed data on nearly 600,000 pregnancies and identified nine parameters that accurately predicted the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
A study of over 650 women who experienced early-stage pregnancy loss found that nearly a third suffer post-traumatic stress, while one in four experience moderate to severe anxiety and depression. The research calls for improved care following an early-stage pregnancy loss.
A study found that pregnant women with congenital heart disease (CHD) are more likely to test positive for stress, anxiety, and depression, which can impair fetal brain development. The study suggests that routine screening for psychological distress is crucial during prenatal care.
A new study reveals that autistic mothers experience higher rates of post-natal depression, with 60% reporting difficulties in coping with domestic responsibilities and creating social opportunities. Despite challenges, many reported prioritizing their child's needs and seeking help when needed.
A new ultrasound technique allows veterinarians to evaluate dolphin pregnancies at all stages of gestation, similar to human pregnancy exams. This breakthrough enables the early detection of fetal abnormalities and maternal illness, crucial for saving dolphin pregnancies and informing conservation efforts.
Researchers found an average increase in stem cell count of 68% with minimal side effects, reducing 'stressed' cells and improving conditions for pregnancy. The treatment aims to prevent miscarriage by normalizing the womb lining.