Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A new study will investigate the biological mechanisms triggered by exposure to air pollution during pregnancy, leading to lower birth weight in newborns. The research aims to understand how air pollution affects fetal growth and development.
Scientists develop an antibody-based Zika virus therapeutic that protects monkeys from infection and neutralizes the virus. The treatment has been shown to be effective in preventing Zika virus replication in rhesus macaques.
A Drexel University-led study found that multivitamin use during pregnancy may reduce the risk of autism with intellectual disabilities by 30%. The study, published in BMJ, looked at data from over a decade and controlled for other factors. However, more research is needed to clarify the relationship between diet and autism development.
A collaborative study has found that a combination of three monoclonal antibodies prevents Zika virus infection in primates. The treatment completely blocked the virus from taking hold in the animals, indicating a promising intervention to protect uninfected pregnant women and their fetuses.
The Congenital Zika Virus Program at Children's National evaluated 36 women and their fetuses, revealing that 89% had been bitten by Zika-tainted mosquitoes or exposed via sex with an infected partner. Tragically, four fetuses suffered severe birth defects, leading to two non-viable pregnancies and one infant death.
Research suggests that multivitamin use during pregnancy is associated with a lower likelihood of child autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with intellectual disability. However, study limitations and inconsistent findings warrant further investigation to verify these results.
A USAID-funded campaign in Tanzania linked to increased prenatal visits, birth planning, and improved maternal health outcomes. The study found that women exposed to the campaign were more likely to create birth plans, attend prenatal appointments, and give birth at a health facility.
A study found that a more intensive text messaging program helped some pregnant women quit smoking during pregnancy. The combo of Text4baby and Quit4baby was particularly effective for women age 26 and older and those in the second and third trimester. However, resolve to quit seemed to disappear postpartum.
The Magee Prize will be awarded to a collaborative team of researchers proposing innovative projects in women's health research. The winners will collaborate with MWRI researchers to improve women's health globally, focusing on topics like early human development, reproductive sciences, and gender-based biology.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii aim to develop strategies to prevent Zika virus transmission to the fetus and treat patients infected with the virus. Dr. Mukesh Kumar will work on understanding how the virus is transmitted and developed effective therapeutics.
A study published by The Endocrine Society found that expectant mothers with elevated blood pressure during pregnancy are more likely to have children who develop childhood obesity. Women with high blood pressure, even within the normal range, were associated with a higher risk of overweight or obese children.
A recent study found that most milk-alternative drinks have inadequate levels of iodine, making them an unsuitable substitute for cows' milk. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production and fetal brain development during pregnancy.
A new study shows an antibody that prevents dengue disease also protects mice from Zika. Administering the antibody soon after infection can protect fetuses from Zika-related birth defects.
Researchers found that oxidative stress produces microfractures in amniotic membranes, increasing the risk of early water breakage and preterm birth. The study used specialized microscopic techniques to detect these fractures in donated amniotic membranes.
Washington State University researchers found that exposure to atrazine herbicide during pregnancy led to increased diseases in grand- and great-grand offspring, including testis disease, altered sperm production, and early-onset puberty. Epigenetic inheritance changes were identified as the underlying mechanism.
A University of British Columbia study suggests that providing women with early knowledge about pregnancy and childbirth can help reduce unnecessary Caesarean deliveries. Young women who had sufficient information on childbirth preferred vaginal births over Caesarean deliveries by a significant margin.
A new study by researchers at the University at Buffalo found that pregnant smokers who learn to manage their negative emotions are more likely to quit. The study showed that an emotion regulation treatment program significantly improved quitting rates among these women.
A recent study published in Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology found that the HPV vaccine is associated with improved fertility in some women, particularly those with a history of sexually transmitted infections. The research, led by Boston University School of Public Health, suggests that vaccinated women with an STI history have s...
Research presents evidence that women who develop preeclampsia earlier in pregnancy are more likely to experience thickening in their heart's left ventricle one month after delivery. Women with early-onset preeclampsia also showed more severe left ventricular changes, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MRI had a 98% sensitivity rate in detecting postpartum breast cancers, leading to changes in surgical management for 28% of patients. The study also highlighted the importance of preoperative planning in managing these aggressive cancers.
Researchers found that preeclampsia can permanently change blood vessel function, increasing cardiovascular disease risk. Applying a drug to restore dilation response shows promise as potential treatment strategy.
Researchers found that maternal e-cigarette vaping increases the risk and severity of allergic asthma in offspring, with detrimental effects partially mediated through mitochondrial function. The study highlights the need for caution when considering e-cigarettes as a safe alternative to cigarette smoking during pregnancy.
International panel recommends older alternative medications to reduce risk of premature birth and neonatal death, supporting patient-centered decision-making. The new guidelines take a public health perspective into account, acknowledging operational challenges in low-resource settings.
Research finds that women with asthma are more likely to receive fertility treatment, suggesting improved asthma control may enhance pregnancy. The study's findings do not prove a causal link but encourage future investigations into the relationship between asthma and fertility.
A review of high-quality observational studies found that drinking up to four units a week during pregnancy was associated with an 8% higher risk of having a small baby. The researchers conclude that the evidence is sparse, and guidance should advise abstention as a precautionary principle.
A nationwide register-based cohort study in Denmark found that children born to mothers taking antidepressants during pregnancy were at increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders. The study suggests that medication alone may not be the sole cause, as heritability also plays a part in determining mental health later in life.
A landmark study has identified six gene regions associated with the length of pregnancy and timing of birth, which may lead to new ways to prevent preterm birth and its consequences. The study, involving over 50,000 women, provides a robust understanding of genetic factors contributing to preterm birth.
A study published in The BMJ found an association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and a higher risk of psychiatric disorder diagnosis in children. Researchers stress that this finding should be interpreted with caution, as the underlying maternal illness may contribute to the increased risk.
Researchers found that older wombs have trouble supporting placenta growth, leading to poor blood supply and birth defects. The study suggests that aging wombs may contribute to increased risks of pregnancy complications in humans.
Research published in BMC Public Health found that maternal mobile phone use was associated with lower risk of language and motor skills delays at ages 3 and 5. Children born to mobile phone users had a 27% lower risk of lower sentence complexity, 14% lower risk of incomplete grammar, and 31% lower risk of moderate language delay.
Researchers have discovered a fetal gene associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, which affects around 5% of all pregnancies worldwide. The genetic variant identified is linked to the FLT-1 protein, which damages the mother's vascular system and leads to symptoms such as high blood pressure.
Researchers discover that coyote populations are difficult to control due to increased immigration of younger animals vying for territories. The population's reduced reproductive capacity, largely composed of juveniles that rarely breed, contributes to the challenge.
Women who breastfed for longer periods had significantly lower risk of being diagnosed with endometriosis, with exclusive breastfeeding offering even greater protection. Longer durations of breastfeeding were associated with an 8-14% drop in risk, and women who breastfed exclusively across multiple pregnancies saw a nearly 30% lower risk.
Researchers discover potential of fetal membranes in treating various medical conditions, including cardiovascular and neurological diseases, diabetes, and more. Fetal membranes contain diverse stem cells, making them a promising tool for bioengineering applications.
A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that mothers exposed to very high levels of pesticides during pregnancy experienced increased risk of adverse outcomes, including a 5-9% increase in birth weight and preterm births. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 single births between 1997 and 2011.
Children from unintended pregnancies experience more depressive symptoms in early adulthood, but the study's findings suggest a causal relationship is unlikely. The research highlights the importance of social resources and socioeconomic background in shaping a child's development.
A new study published in CMAJ found that maternal suicide is a leading cause of death during pregnancy and the first year after giving birth. The study suggests that perinatal women who are suicidal may be at higher risk to complete suicide, and highlights the need for improved mental health supports.
A recent study conducted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Federico Rey group found that high levels of microbes consuming choline lead to nutrient deprivation in mice. The results showed increased susceptibility to metabolic diseases, altered epigenetic patterns, and changes in behavior in the offspring.
A new Yale University study reveals that women undergoing IVF to become pregnant report a more intense bodily experience compared to those donating eggs for money. Researchers found a direct correlation between the intensity of bodily experiences and the motivation for harvesting eggs.
A new study from Mayo Clinic researchers found that women with a history of pre-eclampsia are more likely to experience atherosclerosis, hardening and narrowing of the arteries, decades after their pregnancy. This condition can pose a risk to the mother's cardiovascular health even after menopause.
A common type of flame retardant was associated with reduced likelihood of clinical pregnancy and live birth following IVF. Women with higher urinary concentrations of a specific flame retardant had lower reproductive success rates.
The global prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is estimated to be about 8 per 1,000 in the general population, with 1 in every 13 pregnant women delivering a child with FASD. Higher prevalence rates are observed in special populations, such as Aboriginal populations and children in care.
A USC study found that the Zika virus targets specific white blood cells in pregnant women, handicapping their immune system and increasing the chances an unborn baby will be harmed. The virus exploits this weakness to infect and replicate, particularly during the first and second trimesters.
A new study by CAMH estimates nearly 8 out of 1,000 children globally have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. The prevalence varies by country, with Eastern Mediterranean Region having the highest levels at nearly 20 cases per 1,000 children.
A study found that women who experience hypertension during pregnancy have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension after pregnancy. Long-term follow-up is necessary to manage risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Inprenha Biotecnologia have discovered a molecule that increases bovine pregnancy rates and reduces early embryo loss. The product, which enhances reproductive efficiency in domestic animals like cattle and horses, has been tested by the company and shown to be effective.
A new study from McMaster University highlights the importance of public health messaging to South Asian women who are considering pregnancy. The research found that a healthy diet and pre-pregnancy weight can significantly decrease gestational diabetes risk, with approximately one-third of cases preventable.
Researchers found that maternal inflammation can lead to changes in the fetal brain, particularly in the amygdala, which plays a crucial role in emotional processing. This association has been linked to impaired impulse control and an increased risk of psychiatric disorders.
A new study finds that smoking during pregnancy is disproportionately common among women with depression, affecting nearly one-third of this group. The study suggests that depression is a significant barrier to quitting smoking, and addressing it may be crucial for helping women quit during pregnancy.
Researchers found exposure to temperature extremes can negatively impact birth outcomes for pregnant women, including changes in gestation length and birth weight. The study highlights the need for further research on climate change's effects on maternal health and neonatal outcomes.
A large California study found that pregnant women with sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea are at a higher risk of delivering their babies before full term. The study also suggests that treating sleep disorders during pregnancy could be a way to reduce the preterm birth rate.
A recent study found that media portrayals of pregnant women and new moms are often unrealistic, leading to negative emotions such as self-consciousness and depression. Women reported feeling pressure to lose weight quickly after childbirth and being influenced by social media, which can foster competition and guilt.
A Norwegian study found that increasing Body Mass Index above one unit from first to second pregnancy drastically increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Women with BMI less than 25 in first pregnancy showed a strongest risk associated with weight gain, while overweight women who reduced their BMI by more ...
Researchers have developed a mouse model to study Zika virus transmission, finding that the virus can be transmitted sexually from males to females and vertically from pregnant women to their fetuses. The study suggests that the placenta may be a key barrier in preventing Zika virus infection of the fetus.
The study found a substantial increase in neonatal abstinence syndrome among infants whose mothers were prescribed opioids and psychotropic medications. The absolute risk was highest among women exposed to gabapentin, with concurrent exposure to psychotropic medications increasing severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Research finds that meiosis, a key process in sexual reproduction, takes a heavy toll on offspring viability, affecting various organisms including humans and non-human animals. The study suggests that the advantages of sex must outweigh its drawbacks to be advantageous for evolution.
Researchers found that prior vaccination in pregnant women did not significantly affect the transfer of flu antibodies to their babies, contradicting initial concerns. Weakened maternal immune responses from repeated flu shots also hindered peak antibody levels.
A study by Stanford Medicine and Celmatix Inc. found that elective freezing of IVF embryos can improve pregnancy rates in women with high progesterone levels and are over 35. Freezing the embryos before transfer may give hormones a chance to fall to more hospitable levels for implantation.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who gained more than one BMI unit between pregnancies had a doubled risk of developing gestational diabetes. The increased risks were strongest in women with a low BMI, and evidence suggested that reducing weight between pregnancies can help prevent GDM.
Research in sheep model reveals babies born to overweight, obese mothers have less mature lungs, producing less surfactant and fewer cells that make it. This can lead to lung problems at birth and later during infancy and childhood.