Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A low waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) in women is associated with higher cognitive test scores and IQ in children, as well as lower birth order. WHR tracks reproduction potential, which peaks in the twenties and drops after pregnancy and menopause.
Exposure to built environment, outdoor temperature, and chemicals during pregnancy may contribute to prehypertension and hypertension in childhood. Children whose mothers lived in urban areas with access to green spaces had lower blood pressure.
A mouse study found that exercise prior to and during pregnancy restores tissues in the body, improving blood sugar levels and lowering the risk of long-term health problems. The researchers suggest that an active lifestyle is crucial when planning pregnancy.
Researchers at MUSC have identified a specific lipoprotein phenotype associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. Monitoring these patients closely and taking proactive measures to keep their blood pressure down can help prevent the complication.
Researchers at King's College London found that early planned delivery for women with preterm pre-eclampsia reduces maternal complications and severe hypertension. The study also showed lower costs compared to the current method of care in the UK.
Researchers found that rats fed high fat diets during pregnancy and nursing had slower learning abilities and persistently abnormal brain development. They also had lower levels of insulin receptors, leptin receptors, and glucose transporter 1 compared to rats from mothers on normal diets.
A new study led by University College London analyzed over 600,000 menstrual cycles and found that only 13% of women have a traditional 28-day cycle. The research suggests an individualized approach to identify fertile windows could benefit many women in planning pregnancies.
A small number of pregnant women are exposed to gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) before recognition of pregnancy, according to a recent study. The researchers suggest implementing pregnancy screening measures and safety protocols to reduce inadvertent exposures.
A novel quality improvement toolkit, IRON MOM, has shown to enhance early detection and treatment of iron deficiency in pregnancy, according to a study led by St. Michael's Hospital. The implementation resulted in a nearly 10 times increase in ferritin testing rates and a significant decrease in anemia risk.
An observational study found a significant association between maternal urinary fluoride concentrations and lower IQ scores measured in children aged 3-4. Maternal exposure to 1-mg/L of fluoride was associated with a 4.5-point lower IQ score in boys, while a higher intake of fluoride was linked to a 3.7 point lower IQ score among both ...
A new study found no harm to newborns from opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) during pregnancy compared with no treatment. The growth parameters of newborns were similar in the OMT and comparison groups, supporting the prescription of OMT drugs to pregnant women with opioid use disorders.
Transgender men who become pregnant are at higher risk for depression, mental health struggles, and difficulty in receiving proper medical care. Nearly 25% reported negative health experiences, with many seeking alternative non-physician providers.
Research by Rutgers University found that moderate to heavy drinking during pregnancy can alter genes in newborns, increasing the risk of health issues. The study also identified biomarkers that predict prenatal alcohol exposure risks.
Researchers found that antibodies generated against the Zika virus itself may contribute to birth defects in some pregnancies. The study suggests that a safe vaccine would need to induce protective antibodies while avoiding those that increase the risk of microcephaly.
A new study from the University of Cincinnati found that Hispanic women have a higher likelihood of pregnancy than white women after receiving a kidney transplant. The study analyzed data from over 7,900 women and revealed a pregnancy rate of 21.4 per-thousand person years among Hispanic women.
A recent study published in the Journal of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine found that depression is the single largest driver of substance use during pregnancy. Pregnant women with depression were 2.6 times more likely to use cannabis and twice as likely to smoke cigarettes and use alcohol while pregnant.
A new study found that nearly one in eight female adolescents between ages 14 and 19 experienced reproductive coercion, a form of abuse where a woman is pressured to become pregnant against her wishes. The study also highlights the need for clinicians to understand how to spot relationship abuse in younger patients.
Developed by Stevens Institute of Technology researchers, wearable motion sensors can record vibrations sent through a mother's abdomen when her baby's heart beats or squirms. These non-invasive devices could reduce stillbirths worldwide and provide vital insights into fetal health.
A team of experts from Indiana University and the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have received a $1.6 million grant to investigate the impact of opioid pain medications prescribed during pregnancy on children's health outcomes. The study aims to identify causal connections between maternal opioid use and adverse childhood outcomes.
A new study found that female offspring of women with polycystic ovary syndrome have an increased risk for developing cardiac dysfunction. Researchers linked maternal androgen excess and continuous exposure to male hormones during fetal life as contributing factors.
A recent study found that women with malfunctioning natural killer cells may be at a higher risk of developing placental accreta. If confirmed in humans, this discovery could lead to new preventative measures and reduce the need for fertility-ending surgeries.
A new study has found that ursodeoxycholic acid, the current recommended treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, is ineffective in preventing preterm birth and stillbirth. The trial of 605 pregnant women with ICP found no meaningful improvement in outcomes with the drug.
A recent study found that higher maternal Choline levels during pregnancy can prevent fetal brain developmental problems caused by marijuana use. Infants exposed to prenatal marijuana had decreased cerebral nervous system inhibition and lower 'regulation' scores, leading to attention and social function problems later in life.
A new study found that postpartum transfusions carry a greater risk of adverse events, particularly among women with preeclampsia. The number of postpartum transfusions increased by 40% over 20 years, and the risk was twice as high for pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women.
A UW study found that moving to a new home during the first three months of pregnancy increases the risk of low birthweight, premature birth, and smaller-than-expected babies. Despite limitations, the researchers suggest counseling patients on stress-mitigating techniques and care continuity may be beneficial.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who developed pre-eclampsia during pregnancy were nearly five times more likely to develop end stage kidney disease (ESKD) than those who did not. The study analyzed data from over 1 million healthy women and revealed a significant association between pre-eclampsia and ESKD risk.
Research finds that moving house during early pregnancy increases the risk of low birthweight and premature birth, as well as smaller than expected size babies. The study analyzed data from over 30,000 women in Washington state, USA, between 2007 and 2014.
A new study found that many women who use condoms believe they are the most effective pregnancy prevention method, despite condoms being only 85% effective. IUDs were more accurately identified by users as the most effective method, and misconceptions about IUD and oral contraception use persist.
A new study found that mothers living near hydraulic fracking activities were more likely to experience anxiety and depression during pregnancy. The risk was higher among those with lower incomes. Researchers suggest that community-level stressors and air pollution may contribute to these mental health issues.
Researchers examined medical imaging practices among nearly 3.5 million pregnant women in the US and Canada between 1996 and 2016, revealing declining trends in some procedures. The study found that imaging rates decreased over time, with a notable drop in conventional x-rays, angiography, and fluoroscopy.
A new study has found a significant increase in the use of computed tomography (CT) scans during pregnancy in the United States over the last two decades, exposing mothers and fetuses to ionizing radiation. The study suggests that alternative methods without radiation should be considered whenever possible.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that a Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy may reduce weight gain and the risk of gestational diabetes, but has no overall impact on adverse maternal and offspring outcomes. The diet's high intake of nuts, olive oil, fruits, and vegetables was associated with these benefits.
The USPSTF has reaffirmed its 2009 recommendation to screen for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in pregnant women, identifying infants at risk of acquiring the infection from their mothers. Screening during pregnancy can prevent chronic HBV infection in children who become infected with HBV.
The number of pregnant women using cannabis daily before and during pregnancy is increasing, according to Kaiser Permanente research. Cannabis use has risen from 6.8% in 2009 to 12.5% in 2017, with daily use increasing most rapidly.
Marijuana use among pregnant women in Northern California increased significantly between 2009 and 2017, with daily use rising from 1.17% to 3.05%. The study analyzed data from nearly 277,000 pregnancies, suggesting a possible trend towards more recreational marijuana use during pregnancy.
A new study found mothers living near intense oil and gas development have a 40-70% higher chance of having children with congenital heart defects. The study analyzed 3,324 infants born in Colorado from 2005-2011, estimating monthly intensity of well activity to confirm positive associations between maternal exposure and CHDs.
A recent study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that pregnancies among women taking isotretinoin continue to occur despite a special restricted distribution program, iPLEDGE. The study reported a range of 218-310 pregnancies per year after 2011, highlighting the need for further regulations to reduce this number.
A new study found that more than one-third of low-income pregnant women who reported suicidal thoughts did not have elevated levels of depression. The researchers suggest using instruments to screen for suicidal ideation as well, as it is a significant risk factor for suicide attempts.
A new study found that mothers who had surgery before pregnancy had a 1.6 times higher risk of their newborns experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms, known as neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, analyzed data from almost 2.2 million births in Quebec between 1989 and 2016.
A new study found that mothers who underwent surgery before pregnancy have a 1.6 times higher risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome, a condition characterized by opioid withdrawal symptoms in newborns. The study suggests that careful postoperative pain management can help prevent this condition.
Research found that interferon production alters placental development, potentially causing serious complications. Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins block syncytin fusion activity, preventing viral entry but also hindering fetal growth.
Kristin Myers, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University, has been awarded the Presidential Early Career Award (PECASE) for her research on pre-term birth. Her work focuses on determining the biomechanical mechanisms that cause premature cervical remodeling and softening.
A Canadian study of over 100,000 children born to vaccinated mothers during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic found no association with increased risk of health problems. However, some slight associations were observed for gastrointestinal infections and asthma, but these were small and may be due to confounding factors.
A new study found that a high-fiber diet during pregnancy can reduce the risk of preeclampsia by promoting a healthy immune system in the developing fetus. The research also suggests that low levels of acetate, a key metabolic product of gut bacteria, may be associated with preeclampsia.
Pregnancy outcomes for lupus patients have dramatically improved, with a decline in maternal and fetal mortality rates over the past two decades. The study found that more women with lupus are attempting pregnancy and delivering successfully, with minimal risk of complications.
A new evidence review suggests that few nutritional supplements or dietary interventions offer any protection against cardiovascular disease or death. Some may even cause harm, according to a meta-analysis published in Annals of Internal Medicine.
Researchers found that providing a year's supply of birth control pills upfront can reduce unintended pregnancies and lower healthcare costs. The study estimates that this policy change would prevent 583 unintended pregnancies and save the VA approximately $2 million annually.
A review of studies indicates that pre-eclampsia can lead to persistent cardiovascular issues in women. Researchers are now calling for long-term cardiovascular screening for women with a history of the condition.
A study found that the new guidelines would detect nearly three times as much gestational hypertension, from 4.2% to 25.1%, indicating a potential reduction in associated health risks for mothers and infants. The increased detection rate could lead to improved prenatal care and outcomes.
Research examining US alcohol and pregnancy policies from 1972-2015 found varying effects on birth outcomes by race. For White women, most policies had adverse effects, while for Black women, four policies had beneficial effects. The study suggests future research should explore the reasons behind these disparities.
The Mexico City Policy is associated with a 40% increase in abortions and a decrease in modern contraceptive use among women in sub-Saharan Africa. The policy's restriction on funding to abortion-giving organizations likely contributed to the rise in abortions, as it reduced access to modern contraception.
Researchers found elevated first trimester blood pressure increases risk for pregnancy hypertensive disorders, such as gestational high blood pressure and preeclampsia. Women with higher systolic or diastolic pressures had a greater risk of developing these conditions.
A nationwide cohort study reveals that pregnant women with migraines face a higher risk of miscarriage, cesarean sections, and low birth weight babies. Migraine medication may help mitigate some complications.
Researchers found that maternal exposure to sucralose and acesulfame-K during pregnancy and lactation led to altered intestinal flora and liver toxicity in mouse pups. The study suggests that artificial sweeteners may be safe for adults when used in moderation, but not a substitute for sugar.
Pregnancy rates from IVF and ICSI in Europe have reached a peak, with success rates stabilizing after increasing for conventional IVF cycles. Frozen embryo cycles show the highest pregnancy rate at 30.5%, indicating an upward trend in outcomes.
Researchers at Lund University have made significant strides in developing a potential drug to combat preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition affecting millions of pregnant women worldwide. The study's findings confirm the therapeutic effects of alpha-1-microglobulin and suggest a promising path forward for patients with the disease.
A new study suggests that elevated estrogen levels in early pregnancy can lead to placenta abnormalities, but treating pregnant women with the growth factor VEGF could halt preeclampsia and preterm birth. Researchers found that VEGF treatment increased uterine artery remodeling and improved blood flow to the placenta.
A UK study published in Diabetologia found that obesity during pregnancy is associated with a 3.5 times increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the child, while being overweight increases this risk by 40%. The study suggests strategies to reduce obesity and overweight in women of reproductive age are urgently needed.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission from mothers to babies can be largely prevented with universal HCV screening in pregnancy. Almost half of women infected with HCV are unaware of their infection, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early detection.
A new non-invasive prenatal test has been developed to diagnose sickle cell disease in unborn babies. The test uses cell-free fetal DNA and has shown promising results, with successful diagnoses achieved in 21 out of 24 pregnancies. Further development and validation are needed before the test can be introduced into clinical practice.