Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Researchers discuss routes of Zika virus transmission and its effects on pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage and microcephaly. Therapeutic approaches aimed at blocking Zika virus transmission from mother to fetus are also presented.
A recent study investigates the association between prenatal alcohol exposure and child craniofacial shape at 12 months, emphasizing the need for safe drinking habits during pregnancy. The research underscores the risks of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and provides guidance for pregnant women and their families.
A reliable clinical assay can detect the Zika virus from semen samples with a limit of detection of 5 viral copies per mL of semen. This assay has been validated through experiments with 100 semen samples spiked with recombinant Accuplex ZIKV and tested for other viruses.
A retrospective study of 1,200 women found that pregnancy after breast cancer diagnosis did not increase the risk of cancer recurrence and death. However, survivors with estrogen receptor-positive tumors may want to consider their personal risk for recurrence when deciding how long to wait before becoming pregnant.
A large study of over 1,200 women found that pregnancy after breast cancer diagnosis does not increase the chance of cancer recurrence or death. The findings confirm that women with ER-positive cancer can safely become pregnant without increasing their risk of recurrence.
A recent study found that mothers' ages don't contribute to preterm births or low birth weights; rather, factors like fertility problems, stress, and unhealthy behaviors may play a role. This research suggests women shouldn't worry about their age when considering having children.
A new study found that even brief exposure to tobacco during pregnancy can lead to long-term negative impacts on executive function in adolescents. The study controlled for demographics and other substance exposures, showing a strong association between tobacco exposure and impaired executive functioning.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science establish a clear causal link between prenatal stress and the onset of eating disorders. Female mice exposed to maternal stress during pregnancy develop compulsive eating disorder when challenged with a Western diet, highlighting an epigenetic marker introduced prenatally.
Researchers found that prolonged maternal stress can alter placental metabolism and accelerate fetal growth, potentially leading to mental or physical illnesses. The study suggests seeking support from a therapist for pregnant women experiencing longer-term stress situations.
A new study found that women with preeclampsia are seven times more likely to have severe preeclampsia or eclampsia if they also have pregnancy-associated stroke. Infections and chronic high blood pressure were also linked to an increased risk of stroke in these women.
Researchers found Zika-infected monkey fetuses showed unusual inflammation in the eyes, retina, and optic nerves, suggesting a wider threat in human pregnancies than previously thought. The study used animal models to study the progression of infection and associated health problems, opening doors for studying other infections and pote...
A study by Columbia University Irving Medical Center reveals that preeclampsia significantly increases stroke risk in pregnant women with infections, chronic high blood pressure, or bleeding/clotting disorders. The risk of stroke after delivery is also a concern for mothers with preeclampsia.
A study from researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison and UCSF found that mindfulness training during pregnancy can reduce depression symptoms in new mothers. The study showed a decrease in opioid-based pain medication use during labor among the mindfulness group, suggesting a potential benefit for infant health.
Women with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at greater risk for serious pregnancy complications, including ICU admission and increased risk of rare but severe complications such as hysterectomy and congestive heart failure. OSA also increases the risk of hypertensive disorders and gestational diabetes.
A new study published in the European Congress on Obesity reveals strong and direct effects of parental BMI, low income, and smoking on a child's future BMI and risk of overweight. The research controlled for birthweight and early life BMI to show that these factors have a lasting impact.
A 100-year-old medical technique, hysterosalpingography (HSG), has been proven to increase fertility rates in infertile women. Using an iodised poppy seed oil solution significantly improves pregnancy rates within six months, with 40% of women achieving successful pregnancies compared to 29% with water-based solution.
A recent analysis of 16 studies found that fluoxetine use during the first trimester is associated with a 18% increased relative risk of major malformations and a 36% increased risk of cardiovascular malformations.
Researchers found that years of gradual weight gain more than doubles the risk of hypertensive disorders, including high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia, during pregnancy. Women who gained moderate to high annual weight gains had a higher risk of developing hypertensive disorders.
A study published in The BMJ found that online telemedicine-based medical abortion is effective and safe, with low rates of adverse events. The research provides real-world evidence on the effectiveness of self-sourced medical abortion through telemedicine, supporting growing calls for reform of highly restrictive abortion laws.
A new study published in The BMJ found that medical abortions conducted through online telemedicine were successful in 95% of cases, with low rates of complications. Women were able to identify symptoms of potential issues and seek medical attention when needed, suggesting a safe and effective option for those seeking abortion access.
A world-first study found that pregnant rays are traumatized by capture, impacting their reproductive potential and offspring health. The study, led by Leonardo Guida, examined the southern fiddler ray and found that trawl capture can affect fetal development, leading to smaller, lighter offspring with compromised immune systems.
Research found that women exposed to colder temperatures during pregnancy had a lower rate of gestational diabetes compared to those exposed to hotter temperatures. The study also discovered that for every 10-degree Celsius rise in temperature, women were six to nine percent more likely to develop gestational diabetes.
A new study suggests that corticosteroid treatments given to pregnant women just hours before delivery can significantly increase the survival rate of very preterm infants. The research found that antenatal corticosteroids reduced infant mortality and severe neonatal morbidity, particularly when administered shortly before birth.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found a direct link between outdoor air temperature and the risk of gestational diabetes. Women exposed to extremely cold temperatures had a 4.6% prevalence, increasing to 7.7% for hot temperatures
The study found that hepatitis C infections among pregnant women increased by 89% from 1.8 to 3.4 per 1,000 live births between 2009 and 2014. Rural counties in Tennessee and West Virginia saw the highest rates of infection, with nearly 8% of pregnant women infected in some counties.
The American College of Physicians strongly recommends the use of generic bisphosphonates or denosumab to reduce fracture risk in women with osteoporosis. The guideline advises physicians to prescribe generics over brand-name drugs and discuss medication adherence with patients.
The study found substantial benefits from fetal reduction, including lower rates of preterm birth and serious illness. However, the benefits were more pronounced among fertility-treated pregnancies.
Two studies found a link between poverty and worsening lupus disease outcomes, as well as higher rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes among Black and Hispanic women. Poverty status was also associated with increased end-organ damage over time.
A new study reveals pregnant women are nearly twice as likely to experience a traumatic injury resulting from violent assault and die from their injuries compared to non-pregnant women. The research highlights the need for universal screening in Ob/Gyn clinics.
Researchers have identified a gene, Prkca, that plays a key role in the formation of neural tube defects, commonly found in infants of pregnant women with diabetes. The study's findings may lead to new methods for reducing risk and potentially prevent these birth defects.
Reducing interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) levels makes cells highly susceptible to Zika virus infection. Blocking the viral entry pathway may prevent devastating effects of Zika virus during pregnancy.
A population-based study found associations between maternal smoking and severe mental illness in offspring, but weakened when considering family-related factors. The study analyzed nearly 1.7 million people born in Sweden, suggesting that environmental influences shared by siblings may be more important than causal teratogenic effects.
Research by Ulster University found that mothers taking folic acid supplements throughout pregnancy had children with higher levels of emotional intelligence and resilience. The study also showed a correlation between the level of folic acid in mothers' blood and their child's resilience.
Research suggests that excessive Hsf1 activation can lead to delayed neural migration in embryos, potentially increasing the risk of congenital brain disorders. This study's findings raise concerns about the safety of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Pregnant women are vulnerable to orthopaedic traumas due to car crashes or domestic violence, with bodily changes affecting treatment processes. A team of specialists is essential for optimal patient outcomes, prioritizing the mother's health and minimizing fetal harm.
A study of 14,500 participants found that maternal grandmothers who smoked during pregnancy increased the risk of girls displaying autistic traits by 67% and their grandchildren being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder by 53%. Further research is needed to understand these molecular changes and potential transgenerational influences.
Researchers analyzed data on 2,025 women diagnosed with stage I to IV melanoma and found no significant differences in prognosis between pregnant and non-pregnant patients. The study upends long-held beliefs about pregnancy and melanoma, showing that screening and treatment should be similar for both groups.
The USPSTF concludes that screening for preeclampsia has a substantial net benefit, allowing for early identification and effective treatment to prevent serious complications. Moderate-certainty evidence supports the effectiveness of well-established treatments in reducing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found a link between financial strain and lower birth weights. Pregnancy-specific distress was identified as a key factor contributing to this connection.
A new study suggests that financially strained pregnant women may be at a higher risk of having a low-birth-weight infant. Researchers found that pregnancy-specific distress was a key factor in this connection, and interventions such as meditation and breathing exercises could help mitigate the effects.
Antiviral drug tenofovir significantly reduces hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission from mother to child when administered during pregnancy. Studies show a 77% reduction in transmission rates, from 90% to just 3%, saving countless lives and preventing liver disease.
Researchers developed and evaluated MyFamilyPlan, a web-based preconception health education module. The study found that women who used the online format were about twice as likely to discuss preconception health with their doctors. This increase in discussions was associated with improved patient care.
A large-scale analysis suggests that mothers' use of antidepressants during early pregnancy does not significantly increase the risk of autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in their children. However, a slightly higher risk for premature birth was found among exposed offspring.
A study published in Journal of Health Economics found that drinking by pregnant women is down 11 percent in states requiring point-of-sale warning signs. The benefits to heeding the warnings show up in fewer extremely premature births and very-low-birth-weight babies.
A recent article reviews studies on fetal exposure to antidepressants and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) during pregnancy. The analysis of 10 relevant studies found inconsistent results regarding ASDs risk associated with prenatal exposure to antidepressants.
A high-sensitivity troponin T test can safely rule out myocardial infarction (MI) in patients presenting to emergency departments with possible acute coronary syndrome. The test, combined with a non-ischemic electrocardiogram, indicates low risk for MI and allows for safe discharge of patients.
A research review and update suggests that medication for addiction treatment (MAT) is an appropriate treatment for pregnant women with opioid use disorder (OUD), reducing opioid use, promoting abstinence, and aiding recovery. Comprehensive care programs supporting mothers and infants are crucial for sustained recovery.
A new study found a link between neurological birth defects in infants and several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's. Researchers also identified a medicine that could treat these diseases by reducing misfolded proteins.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have successfully grown miniature functional models of the womb lining in culture, providing a major step forward in understanding the changes that occur during the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. The findings may lead to new insights into endometriosis and fertility treatments.
Research found that bigger women have a significantly higher risk of atrial fibrillation due to their larger body size, with those in the highest body surface area quartile having nearly three times the risk as those in the lowest. The study's findings suggest that avoiding excess weight may be beneficial for tall individuals.
A study found that a high-fat, high-sugar diet during pregnancy can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to poor glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This may program the mother for potential health complications, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, later in life.
A new study by Queen's University researcher Susan Brogly found that 25% of women suffering from prenatal opioid dependence were not being treated for their addiction. This is a concerning finding, as it can lead to poor birth outcomes and increased healthcare costs.
A study by researchers at McMaster University found that low-dose penicillin in early life can induce long-term behavioral changes, including elevated aggression and lower anxiety levels. Introducing beneficial bacteria may help prevent these effects.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that 65% of women covered by Medicaid or CHIP at delivery were uninsured for at least one month during their pregnancies. The study highlights the need to improve continuity of coverage during the prenatal and postpartum periods, especially for lower-income women.
A study published in Pediatrics found that maternal Tdap vaccination during pregnancy reduced pertussis risk for infants by an estimated 91% within the first two months, and 69% for the entire first year. This research supports current recommendations to administer Tdap vaccine to pregnant women during each pregnancy.
A new report links early life antibiotic use to inflammatory gut diseases in adulthood, finding that altered gut bacteria may increase the likelihood of conditions like IBD, asthma, and multiple sclerosis. The study adds evidence to suggest that modifying gut flora could be a treatment approach for some inflammatory diseases.
A new study conducted in rats found that mothers' alcohol use before conception can harm their offspring's glucose function, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. The research suggests that pre-pregnancy alcohol exposure may be passed on to the child, leading to lifelong effects on glucose homeostasis.
Researchers aim to reduce body fat, improve glucose and lipid metabolism in overweight women planning pregnancy with the Lifestyle Intervention in Preparation for Pregnancy (LIPP) program. The goal is to prevent childhood obesity and related health issues in women and their children.
A high burden of iodine deficiency has been found in Israel's first national survey, with 62% of school-age children and 85% of pregnant women having low iodine intakes. The study highlights a serious public health concern, with implications for maternal and fetal hypothyroidism and impaired neurological development.
Researchers found that treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism or hypothyroxinemia did not improve cognitive outcomes in children through five years. The findings support current ACOG recommendations against universal thyroid screening during pregnancy.