Articles tagged with Pregnancy
A survey of over 1,600 US adults found that most know the negative impacts of smoking and drinking during pregnancy, but uncertainty exists around vaccines and weight gain recommendations. The majority are unsure about recommended vaccines for pregnant individuals, with a notable drop in knowledge since last year.
A study found that family physicians are improving maternal health in rural areas, particularly in Texas, Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas. Rural counties with only hospital obstetric services have higher rates of social deprivation and Black populations.
A study published in Neurology found that antiseizure drug use during pregnancy continues despite evidence of birth defect risks, with higher use among people with low resources. The safest drugs saw a 30% increase in exposure, while those with uncertain risks saw an increase over time.
A large-scale study found strong links between maternal infections and adverse outcomes in babies born in Australia's Northern Territory. Congenital syphilis tripled the risk of preterm birth, while gonorrhoea increased the risk of stillbirth. The study highlights the need for more changes in STI testing during pregnancy.
Researchers found a significant link between vaccination of pregnant women and a drop in newborns being admitted to hospital with a serious lung infection. The RSV vaccine offered a 72% reduction in hospital admissions, with mothers who received the jab before delivery having twice the protective effect.
A study found that using some older and newer antiseizure medications during pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of malformations at birth. The study suggests that medications like valproate, phenobarbital, and topiramate may be associated with a higher risk of birth defects compared to lamotrigine.
Researchers found pregnant women with arteriovenous malformations are more likely to experience ruptures than non-pregnant women. Hormonal shifts and increased blood demand exacerbate health issues during pregnancy, placing added strain on the brain.
An international study has shown that BrECADD preserves fertility significantly better than eBEACOPP without worsening recovery chances. After treatment, 95% of women and 86% of men had normal hormone levels, enabling more pregnancies and births.
Research finds nearly a third of UK maternal deaths between 2014 and 2022 were linked to children's social care services. Women with such involvement were at higher risk of dying from psychiatric causes, murder, and mental health-related issues.
A comprehensive study protocol has been developed to investigate pregnancy-related stroke risk factors and long-term implications for mothers and their children. The nationwide multicenter study aims to identify key risk factors associated with ASPP and assess its impact on offspring.
Researchers found significant differences in gut microbiota composition between pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes. A diagnostic model based on genus-level markers showed high precision for early detection of the condition, offering new opportunities for prevention and personalized management.
A study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that a pro-inflammatory diet during pregnancy may raise a child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The research, which followed pregnant women from Denmark, found a 16% increase in risk for each unit increase in dietary measure of inflammatory food intake.
Pregnancy rates remained stable for IVF and IUI cycles in 2022, while single embryo transfer usage increased. Clinical pregnancy rates were stable, with singleton delivery rates improving to 91.5%. The use of ART rose by 15.6% despite a slight decline in total treatment cycles.
A recent study found that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have embryos carrying a unique 'epigenetic memory' that could explain why the condition often runs in families. Treating affected embryos with certain inhibitors showed promise in restoring normal gene activity, suggesting a potential therapeutic avenue.
A new international study reveals that male partners over 45 carry significantly increased miscarriage risks and lower live birth rates even when young donor eggs are used. The study found that older paternal age is linked to genetic mutations, sperm DNA fragmentation, and epigenetic changes, impairing embryo development.
A new study shows that a simple blood test taken in the first trimester of pregnancy can accurately identify women at risk of developing preeclampsia five months before clinical diagnosis. The test uses cell-free RNA, or cfRNA, to capture subtle molecular signals from multiple maternal tissues.
A new study reveals that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a sharp reduction in the beneficial gut bacterium Parabacteroides merdae, alongside elevated levels of branched-chain amino acids. These changes may impair endometrial health and reproductive complications in women with PCOS.
Researchers uncover a key piece to the miscarriage puzzle, tracing risk back to a problem with the womb lining before pregnancy. The decidual reaction, which prepares the womb lining for pregnancy each month, often doesn't progress properly in women with a history of miscarriage.
A new study by researchers at UC San Francisco found that state bans on abortion led to significant increases in travel time, costs, and delays in receiving care. The study, which surveyed 855 people from states with abortion bans, revealed a 17% increase in second-trimester abortions and a 11.3-hour increase in travel time.
The American Medical Association (AMA) emphasizes the importance of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, citing benefits and risks. Physicians should counsel patients on vaccine safety, considering individual factors and potential risks.
A large global study found that women who experience severe bleeding after childbirth face an increased risk of cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure and ischemic heart disease, for up to 15 years. The study analyzed data from over 9.7 million women across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Researchers found an increased risk of stroke in women who experienced diabetes, high blood pressure, preterm delivery, or low birth weight during pregnancy. These complications could act as early signals for cardiovascular problems, enabling women to receive help and reduce their risk.
Children of older mothers are more likely to be born prematurely or with complications. The study found that babies born to mothers 45 years and older had the highest risks of stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight compared to younger mothers.
Mortality from slow fetal growth and malnutrition has increased nearly 2% annually, potentially linked to impaired prenatal nutrition. Medical advancements, improved prenatal care, and neonatal intensive care interventions may have contributed to the overall decline in U.S. neonatal mortality.
Elevated cortisol levels in preterm fetuses disrupt normal heart development, potentially leading to increased cardiovascular disease risk. Cortisol exposure accelerates heart development in ways that may not be beneficial, ultimately compromising heart health.
Researchers found associations between influenza A infection, disrupted gut and nasal microbiomes, and detrimental changes in hippocampal gene expression. Maternal vaccination during pregnancy appeared to offer protection from these changes.
A recent USC study found associations between increased exposure to wildfire smoke and heat stress during preconception and the first trimester with the odds of having a small-for-gestational-age infant. Living in a climate-vulnerable neighborhood can increase these risks, particularly for women exposed to heat stress.
A UC Riverside study found that Toxoplasma gondii can significantly disrupt brain function by interfering with communication between brain cells. Infected neurons release fewer extracellular vesicles, which can lead to seizures, neural damage, or altered brain connectivity.
A community-based mentoring scheme in Sierra Leone has been found to save lives and help girls return to education, doubling survival rates. The pilot trial reduced maternal and perinatal deaths by almost half, with one baby's life saved for every 18 mentored girls.
A recent study published in Heredity investigated whether female odour-based mating preferences can predict gamete-level compatibility in humans. Women preferred the body odours of MHC-similar men, but sperm from MHC-dissimilar men exhibited higher motility when exposed to female follicular fluid.
Pregnant individuals are at high risk of measles infection and its complications. Experts emphasize the need for urgent access to IVIG and updated hospital protocols to protect vulnerable groups.
A study reveals that pre-eclampsia increases the risk of developing severe cerebrovascular complications, including stroke, after childbirth. The researchers found that a history of PE impairs collateral recruitment and worsens ischemic stroke outcomes due to increased sensitivity to cerebral ischemia and elevated oxidative stress.
A new study finds pregnant women in abortion-ban states have worse access to routine medical care and pregnancy coverage due to skimpy Medicaid programs. The researchers identified three Medicaid policies driving this disparity, highlighting the need for Congress to expand coverage and ensure all women can get needed care.
A study found that between 11.6% and 20.2% of women with a history of pregnancy or testing for pregnancy visited crisis pregnancy centers across four US states, including Arizona and New Jersey. The attendance rates were not correlated with age, race, or socioeconomic status.
A new NIH grant will aid researchers at Wayne State University in studying the effects of fentanyl during pregnancy. The two-year study aims to determine the impact of gestational fentanyl exposure on morbidity and mortality, developmental milestones, and brain development in offspring.
A University of Otago study found that prolactin helps regulate core body temperature during pregnancy, reducing the risk of hyperthermia. This adaptation promotes a safe environment for the fetus and enhances maternal survival and wellbeing.
Children born to mothers with a BMI of 35 or higher are at heightened risk of being admitted to hospital for an infection. Maternal obesity is characterised by chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of a disordered immune system response and unfavourable changes to the gut microbiome.
A new University of Minnesota report shows a continued 30-year decline in MN teen birth rates, with lower chlamydia rates than in decades. The report also emphasizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health and providing accurate sexual health information to all youth.
A recent study found that cannabis use during pregnancy can alter DNA methylation in placental tissue, which may impact child behavioral outcomes. The research, conducted by Dr. Emma C. Johnson, suggests a potential link between prenatal cannabis exposure and gene regulation in the developing fetus.
First-time mothers experience significant sleep loss and disruption in the weeks following childbirth, with average daily sleep duration decreasing to 4.4 hours. The study reveals that this unique type of sleep disruption persists throughout the first months of motherhood, affecting new mothers' quality of life.
A new study published by the American Academy of Neurology found no increase in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD in children whose mothers took triptan medications before or during pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 26,000 pregnancies and followed the children for an average of eight years.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that higher maternal selenium levels during pregnancy are associated with a lower risk of streptococcal infections in children. The research tracked over 74,000 mothers and their children to explore potential links between maternal metal exposure and infection risk.
A recent survey found that over 83% of Americans believe the benefits of the MMR vaccine for children outweigh the risks, despite a current measles outbreak. The survey also showed that vaccination rates are dropping and many people lack knowledge about measles symptoms and prevention.
Researchers found that inflammation in the female reproductive tract can hinder fertility, but replenishing progesterone levels can help. This discovery could improve women's chances of becoming pregnant and save more pregnancies.
A UC San Francisco-led study found that delivering medicine for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) via the amniotic fluid was safe and helped prevent damage to nerve cells. The therapy used molecules called antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which can alter gene expression, and was tested in mice and sheep with promising results.
The USPSTF recommends early, universal screening for syphilis infection during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis. Untreated syphilis can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth in the fetus.
A new study found that a simple oral swab test can increase IVF success rates by identifying the best hormone treatment for each woman based on her genetic profile. The test, developed by researchers at Lund University, shows promise in reducing costs and increasing pregnancies.
A study published in Behavior Therapy shows that a peer support program provides 'rapid relief of symptoms' and 'significant clinical improvement' to new moms struggling with postpartum depression. The program, Alma, pairs new and expectant moms with trained peers who have experienced similar mental health challenges.
Researchers at UCL and the Francis Crick Institute have identified the origin of cardiac cells using 3D images of a heart forming in real-time. They found that cardiac cells emerge rapidly during gastrulation and follow distinct paths to form the heart's pumping chambers and atria.
The proportion of women smoking during pregnancy in England has almost halved since 2014/15, but funding cuts could stall this progress. Experts fear that continued investment is necessary to give every child a smokefree start in life and prevent a surge in rates.
Pregnant women with fatty liver disease are at an increased risk of giving birth prematurely, with a threefold higher risk compared to the general population. The study also found that women with fatty liver disease had a 63% higher risk of caesarean section.
A UK study of 48,417 women found that significant weight gain after age 20 and late first pregnancy increase the risk of breast cancer. Women who experienced early first pregnancy were found to have greater weight gain during adulthood than those with a late first pregnancy.
Research found that boys born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or higher testosterone levels during pregnancy are less physically active at age 7. Girls exposed to similar levels of testosterone had lower muscle strength, highlighting the role of maternal testosterone and PCOS in future development.
A new Australian study highlights the need to support women and their families with overweight or obesity before pregnancy. The research found that a woman's BMI in early pregnancy is linked to her child's weight from birth to age 10, with every 5kg/m² increase in maternal BMI associated with an increase in child BMI.
Research finds high levels of phthalates in mothers' urine associated with shorter anogenital distances in 3-year-old boys and girls, a marker of reproductive health and hormone disruption. The study emphasizes the need for preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups from endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
A cohort study of 12,480 mother-offspring pairs found that pre-pregnancy obesity, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are associated with increased offspring blood pressure. These risk factors may also promote a faster rate of blood pressure change from age 2 to 18 years.
A new NIH study found that maternal cardiometabolic health before and during pregnancy is associated with higher blood pressure in children. The study analyzed data from 12,480 mother-child pairs and identified three key risk factors: pre-pregnancy obesity, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure during pregnancy.
A new study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that children born to mothers with obesity, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive disorders have higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The study's findings suggest that early blood pressure interventions could start as early as pregnancy.
A national survey found that 1,888 out of 7,332 women reported experiencing words, gestures, or attitudes that shocked or offended healthcare professionals. Disrespectful care was more common among nulliparous women, those with high education levels and birth plans, and those who breastfed.
A study among 2,272 mother-child pairs found that infants whose mothers consumed fresh avocado during pregnancy had a 44% lower risk of developing food allergies at 12 months. Avocado intake was associated with improved maternal and infant health outcomes, including breastfeeding duration and diet quality.