Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A large cohort study found that children exposed to non-TNFi biologics or tofacitinib in utero experienced very few serious infections, with only two cases reported. The study provides the first data on infectious risk in offspring exposed to these drugs during pregnancy.
Two new studies found that vaginal delivery and exclusive breastfeeding may reduce the risk of developing allergic conditions in children. Meanwhile, a mother's diet during pregnancy and history of allergies can also influence eczema and food allergy development in offspring.
A study by University of Utah Health found nearly 33% of reproductive-age women with chronic conditions are using ineffective forms of birth control. Women with preexisting health problems are often missing out on crucial counseling about safe and effective birth control options.
A study of 71,892 children born between 2007-2011 found strong associations between pre-pregnancy obesity in mothers and their children's high body mass index between ages two and six. Modest links were also identified with maternal diabetes and excessive weight gain during pregnancy.
Recent analysis examined safety of oral fluconazole and itraconazole in pregnant women, finding slight increases in risk of congenital heart defects and limb defects. Oral agents were not associated with increased risk of overall birth defects.
Researchers tested an imaging technique to assess cervix stiffness before labor induction, finding it can predict successful outcomes and potentially reduce cesarean rates. The study suggests a new ultrasonic assessment method could replace manual evaluation for more accurate information.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique to track maternal blood flow to the placenta, identifying women at risk for complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. The study found that women with reduced placental blood flow later developed one or more complications.
A Finnish hospital analysis found that 59.5% of women with preeclampsia used at least one drug during pregnancy, compared to 35.5% of controls. The most commonly used drugs were antibiotics, hypertensive medications, and paracetamol.
A new study shows that components of marijuana, including its cannabinoids CBD and THC, can cause brain and facial birth defects in mice when used during the first trimester of pregnancy. The research also found that combining CBs with alcohol increases the likelihood of these birth defects.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that adding calcium to acidified prepartum diets can improve postpartum outcomes in dairy cows. Cows fed this diet had lower rates of uterine infection, quicker return to ovulation, and more favorable reproductive health.
Young, low-income women in Canada are more likely to use no contraception or condoms only, compared to those with higher incomes. The study found that lower household income is associated with decreased use of effective birth control methods and increased risk of unintended pregnancy.
Researchers found that severe infections in pregnant mothers can impair brain development, leading to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. The study showed immediate and long-lasting effects on neuronal cells, including impaired cortical GABAergic interneuron development.
A recent study found that telehealth effectively diagnosed and managed fetal congenital heart disease (CHD) in rural patients, achieving significant cost savings while maintaining high patient satisfaction. The study used real-time video consultation between medical experts and pediatric cardiologists, resulting in improved diagnostic ...
A comprehensive register-based study from Aarhus University in Denmark found that the use of antidepressants by pregnant women decreased significantly by 33% between 2011 and 2023. This decline was mainly driven by a decrease in prescribing serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and citalopram, which is commonly used in Denmark.
A long-term study found that five consecutive years of drought effectively ended copperhead snakes' reproductive output. Snakes produced significantly fewer offspring during and after the drought, with no pregnant females recorded in the year following the drought's end.
Researchers at Edith Cowan University in Australia have developed a simple, low-cost test to predict preeclampsia. The Suboptimal Health Questionnaire assesses health status and combines with blood tests to accurately predict the development of preeclampsia in almost 80% of cases.
Research in animals shows that chronic stress during pregnancy triggers an immune response in the brain, leading to potential changes in brain functions. The study found that stressed rats showed evidence of neuroinflammation and increased activity levels of microglia, suggesting a link between gestational stress and postpartum depress...
Women with anemia are at high risk of postpartum hemorrhage and other complications after cesarean delivery. Early screening for iron deficiency can help prevent these issues by prescribing oral iron supplements or IV therapy as needed, potentially reducing blood transfusions.
A study found that many women and healthcare providers believe CBD is safe during pregnancy, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Researchers urge pregnant women and providers to be cautious about using CBD due to potential interactions with other medications.
A study found that children exposed to snus during pregnancy had a systolic blood pressure 4.2 mmHg higher than those with no nicotine exposure, increasing the risk of higher blood pressure in adulthood. The researchers emphasized that tobacco products should be avoided during pregnancy.
A Rutgers-led national survey of likely voters reveals a strong majority supports sex education within schools, including topics like puberty, STDs, healthy relationships, and consent. The study also finds support for continued government funding for teenage pregnancy prevention programs, despite recent attempts to shift focus to absti...
Research from The University of Queensland found that even small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy can cause insulin-resistance in male rats. Male rats exposed to low levels of prenatal alcohol showed signs of becoming diabetic at six months old.
A Swedish study found that children born to women who underwent gastric bypass surgery had a lower risk of major birth defects, which could be attributed to improved blood sugar control and weight loss. The researchers recommend special antenatal care for bariatric surgery patients to ensure fetal health.
Polyamorous families experience marginalization in healthcare, with participants suggesting providers acknowledge partners' presence and roles, be open and nonjudgmental, and adapt administrative forms. The study's findings align with recent reports on stigma faced by individuals engaging in consensual nonmonogamy.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health have established evidence-based guidelines for maternal weight gain during twin pregnancies. Gaining within targeted ranges reduces the risk of poor health outcomes. Women should discuss safe weight gain amounts with their healthcare providers to minimize risks.
Research found that offspring of obese rat mothers showed impaired mitochondrial function, leading to early signs of diabetes and increased susceptibility to heart disease. Exercise improved these outcomes, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit.
A study in male rat offspring found that small amounts of alcohol consumed by pregnant mothers can lead to insulin-resistance and an increased likelihood of developing diabetes. The researchers suggest that the lack of oestrogen protection in males may contribute to this sex-specific effect.
A study of over 50,000 pregnancies reveals that late third trimester ultrasounds can identify previously undetected fetal abnormalities in 0.5% of cases. This benefit highlights the importance of these scans for detecting abnormalities that were missed in earlier first and/or second trimester exams.
Researchers found evidence of impaired white matter tract development in premature babies whose mothers experienced more prenatal stress. The study highlights the importance of supporting expectant mothers and providing interventions to mitigate adverse outcomes.
A Kaiser Permanente study of nearly 500,000 pregnancies found that children exposed to severe morning sickness during pregnancy were 53% more likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The association was stronger among girls and certain ethnic groups.
A recent NIH-funded study reveals that children born to mothers with high blood lead levels are more likely to be overweight or obese. Folate intake after giving birth may help reduce this risk. The study analyzed data from the Boston Birth Cohort and found a significant association between maternal lead exposure and childhood obesity.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that sleeping on one's back during the third trimester of pregnancy may be associated with average lower birth weights. The study investigated this potential link and found a correlation between back sleepers and smaller newborns.
Eating a seafood-rich diet during early pregnancy is associated with better attention outcomes in children, according to the study. The researchers found that consuming fatty fish and lean fish had a positive effect on children's attention capacity, while canned tuna and shellfish were linked to lower scores.
A clinical trial found that isoniazid preventive therapy during pregnancy increases the risk of poor health outcomes and death for fetuses and newborns. In contrast, deferring treatment until after delivery was safer, with no significant difference in risks.
New research from Rice University found that helping pregnant women at work can ultimately make them feel worse about themselves and their workplace abilities. The study surveyed 105 women on a weekly basis during their pregnancies and for nine months postpartum, revealing a long-lasting negative impact of subtle sexist behaviors.
Research published in BMJ Open found a significant association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Venlafaxine and amitriptyline were linked to the greatest risks, with long-term use associated with a 29% heightened risk.
Researchers found that women who experience complications such as preterm births and preeclampsia during their first pregnancy are nearly twice more likely than women without complications to develop high blood pressure later in life. The study emphasizes the need for doctors to focus on knowing the health histories of women.
A new study from the University of Cincinnati reveals racial disparities in pregnancy rates among women on dialysis, with Native American, Hispanic, and black women experiencing higher rates. The study found that these groups were 77%, 51%, and 33% more likely to become pregnant than white women, respectively.
The USPSTF recommends screening pregnant women for asymptomatic bacteriuria using urine culture due to the associated risk of pyelonephritis. The condition affects an estimated 2-10% of pregnant women and can lead to hospitalization. The new recommendation updates the 2008 guideline.
A large cohort study found attempting a vaginal birth after previous cesarean section increases the risk of serious maternal complications, including uterine rupture and sepsis. The study suggests that planning another cesarean may be a safer option for women with a history of cesarean section.
Guidelines recommend universal screening for opioid use and offering opioid agonist therapy, counselling, and mental health supports. Ongoing support in the postpartum period is crucial for women with opioid use disorders at increased risk of fatal overdose.
Clinical trial results show that pregnant women with obesity can support fetal development without excess calorie intake. The study's findings suggest maintaining pre-pregnancy calorie intake and improving diet quality instead of increasing daily calorie consumption.
Research published in Circulation found a strong link between pregnancy hypertension and an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders, including stroke and heart failure. Women with preeclampsia or other types of pregnancy hypertension are more likely to develop these conditions later in life.
Research finds that even mild long-term depressive symptoms among mothers affect their small children's emotional well-being, including hyperactivity and anxiety. The study also highlights the importance of monitoring parents' mental health during pregnancy and after birth.
A recent study suggests that smoking during pregnancy may damage daughters' future fertility due to increased testosterone exposure. The research found a significant correlation between maternal smoking and anogenital distance in female infants, which is a marker of testosterone levels.
Research suggests that autoantibodies targeting the NMDA receptor in pregnant women may cause behavioral disorders in their children. Studies have found a link between these autoantibodies and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, and ADHD.
A large meta-analysis of over 2 million pregnancies has found a 53% increased risk of gestational diabetes in women who conceived through IVF compared to natural conception. The study also suggests that pregnancies achieved by assisted reproduction technologies are associated with more obstetric and perinatal complications.
A Norwegian study found that a child's gluten intake at 18 months is associated with a 46% increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes for each extra 10g of gluten consumed. The mother's gluten intake during pregnancy was not linked to the risk.
A Swedish study examining 500,000 children found a strong association between maternal anemia during pregnancy and the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders. The study suggests that prenatal anemia may play a significant role in the development of these conditions.
Researchers analyzing almost 8,000 pregnancies in South Korea found fetal growth was abnormally large at 20-24 weeks for women later diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Early screening and monitoring may improve health outcomes for mothers and babies.
A Duke University study found that female lemurs' aggression may be programmed in the womb due to high levels of androstenedione. Females exposed to higher doses of this hormone during pregnancy grow up to be more aggressive as adults.
A longitundinal cohort study found an association between paracetamol intake during mid-pregnancy and behavioral problems in children. Hyperactivity and attention issues were common among young children whose mothers took paracetamol 'sometimes' or more often.
A team of researchers investigated the link between pregnancy and lupus flares, finding that gut microbiota may regulate disease severity. The study suggests that modulating the gut microbiota community could lead to improved disease management for pregnant women with lupus.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered that a woman's bone marrow plays a crucial role in determining her ability to start and sustain a pregnancy. Bone marrow-derived stem cells travel to the uterus, where they help transform the uterine lining for implantation, essential for embryo implantation and pregnancy maintenance.
Researchers discovered that bone marrow-derived cells contribute to embryo implantation and pregnancy by differentiating into decidual cells in the uterine environment. The study suggests a potential role of these cells in human implantation and pregnancy, potentially leading to new treatments for recurrent implantation failure and pre...
A new study by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers found that providing adolescents with same-day access to long-acting reversible contraception can lead to significant cost savings for insurance providers. The study also found a decrease in unintended pregnancies and abortions associated with same-day placement.
A Rutgers study found a significant increase in chronic hypertension among pregnant women, with black women experiencing twice the rate of white women. Advanced maternal age was associated with the rise, and researchers highlight the need for better blood pressure control before and during pregnancy to prevent adverse outcomes.
Research finds that resilient pregnant women experience fewer pregnancy-related concerns, greater psychological wellbeing, and lower cortisol hormone levels. This protective role of resilience suggests a potential benefit for both the mother and baby.
A recent study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society suggests that vaping may have negative effects on fertility in young women. The research found that exposure to e-cigarettes during pregnancy can delay implantation of a fertilized embryo, thereby reducing fertility. Additionally, the study discovered that female offsprin...
A new exposome-based approach analyzing over 200 environmental exposures found associations between certain exposures and higher blood pressure in children. Moderate fish intake during pregnancy was linked with lower blood pressure, while exposure to tobacco smoke and bisphenol-A were associated with increased risk.