Articles tagged with Pregnancy
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A study of 4,446 pregnancies found a high rate of chromosomal abnormalities in patients where non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) fails to provide results. Nearly half of these tests will fail on subsequent attempts, highlighting the importance of clear understanding and follow-up for patients with failed NIPT.
Research finds that mothers with low birth weight or preeclampsia are more likely to have offspring with similar conditions. This study of over 2,300 mother-daughter pairs suggests careful surveillance may help detect complications early.
A study of 825 women with mild gestational diabetes found that those with preeclampsia/gestational hypertension had a higher frequency of subsequent hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Women who delivered preterm and had preeclampsia/gestational hypertension were at greatest risk.
Changes to labor and delivery care systems, introducing expanded midwifery and streamlined obstetric staffing, led to significant decreases in primary and repeat cesarean delivery rates. This study suggests that modifying the traditional model of obstetric care can lower cesarean delivery rates while improving maternal safety.
A study identified thousands of genes expressed in the uterus during the evolution of pregnancy in mammals, with many recruited from other tissue types by transposons. These genes played a crucial role in establishing maternal-fetal communication and suppressing the maternal immune system, protecting the developing fetus.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treating elevated blood pressure during pregnancy reduces the risk of stroke without increasing risks for babies. Normalizing blood pressure levels is recommended for pregnant women to minimize harm.
Pregnant women exposed to high levels of flame-retardants are more likely to deliver babies early, with over 15 million preterm births occurring annually worldwide. Researchers analyzed blood samples from pregnant women and found a correlation between flame-retardant chemicals and preterm birth.
A survey of female meningioma survivors aged 25-44 found they were more likely to want and intend to have a child than the general population, driven by concerns over recurrent meningioma and treatment needs. Physicians' advice on risk factors also influenced their decisions.
New research published in The BMJ finds that financial rewards motivate pregnant women to quit smoking. A study of 612 pregnant smokers showed that those offered shopping vouchers had a 69% quit rate compared to 23% in the control group.
A recent study published in The Journal of Physiology found that increased stress hormone levels in pregnant mice can lead to overeating and reduced fetal growth. However, this effect is not seen when the hormone is administered earlier in pregnancy or when the diet is restricted. The researchers believe that maternal glucocorticoid le...
A study published in The Journal of Physiology found that high stress levels in pregnant mice led to increased cortisol levels, causing mothers to eat more but reducing placental glucose transport. This can result in decreased fetal weight and long-term metabolic health implications for children.
A new review suggests thyroid disorders significantly affect reproductive health in women, leading to reduced conception rates and increased miscarriage risk. Routine screening and prompt management can reduce these risks, emphasizes the authors.
A new analysis found that opioid-based prescription painkillers increase the risk of serious birth defects and preterm birth. The CDC and March of Dimes recommend using safer alternatives during pregnancy to protect babies from exposure to opioids.
Researchers at KU Leuven discovered genetically modified mice producing human growth hormone, altering insulin production and previous research findings. This unexpected turn reveals the need for reinterpretation of 250+ published diabetes studies.
A new study found that BPA exposure during pregnancy causes oxidative stress, which may lead to the development of diabetes and heart disease. Researchers analyzed blood samples from mother-infant pairs and found higher levels of BPA associated with increased oxidative stress in both mothers and babies.
A systematic review found that prolonged sitting is independently associated with negative health outcomes and mortality, especially among those who exercise little. Tips from the author include taking regular breaks to stand or move around, setting achievable goals for reducing sedentary time.
A landmark study in remote Fitzroy Valley communities in Western Australia found that one in eight children have Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a preventable condition. The research, led by Aboriginal community leaders, provides Australia's first comprehensive data on the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in remote communities.
Fortifying grain foods with folic acid has saved about 1,300 babies each year from being born with serious birth defects of the brain and spine. Despite this progress, many women still do not get enough folic acid, highlighting the need for continued education and supplement use.
Researchers discovered that knocking down a single gene can prevent stress-induced female infertility and miscarriage in rats. The study found that this genetic silencing restored reproductive success to levels comparable to non-stress controls.
A new study published in BJOG found that medical co-morbidities are a significant factor associated with direct maternal deaths in the UK. The study identified six factors, including previous pregnancy problems and substance misuse, which contribute to increased risk of fatality.
Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that chronic stress activates a hormone reducing fertility long after stress ends, and blocking this hormone restores female reproductive behavior to normal in rats. The study's findings suggest the potential for a gene therapy approach to help women overcome infertility caused by stress.
Autologous and donor ART cycles showed low risk of complications, with OHSS being the most common patient issue. Maternal death rates decreased over time, indicating improved patient safety.
Women with high DDT levels and sufficient B vitamin intake had a 42% greater chance of early miscarriage than those with lower DDT levels. However, women with high DDT and low B vitamin levels took nearly twice as long to conceive.
A daily multivitamin supplement given to pregnant women in rural Bangladesh reduced pre-term births and increased infant birth weight, resulting in healthier babies. The study found that the supplement improved birth outcomes by increasing fetal development time and birth weight.
A nationwide study in Israel found exposure to air pollutants PM10 and NOX during full-term pregnancies is associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations. The research also discovered that exposure to SO2 and O3 in ART pregnancies are linked to a higher risk of congenital defects.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that exposure to fine particulate matter during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may increase the risk of autism in children. The study analyzed data from over 116,000 female nurses and found a significant association between PM2.5 exposure and autism risk.
Researchers found that trophoblasts respond to inflammatory danger signals and produce pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a potential role in pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia. The study aims to understand the underlying inflammation associated with pre-eclamptic pregnancies.
A study by Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research found that exposure to volatile organic compounds from new flooring before and after birth can cause breathing problems in early childhood. Renovations during pregnancy significantly increase the risk of wheezing in infants, particularly those with asthma or allergies.
Women with mobility disabilities experience pregnancy-related problems, including falls, urinary issues, and breathing difficulties. The study's findings provide preliminary insights for women and obstetrical practitioners to plan ahead.
A study analyzing violent behaviors towards pregnant women found that 22.7% endure some form of violence, including emotional and physical abuse. The prevalence is higher in Spain than nearby countries, highlighting the need for routine detection and action protocols in pregnancy management.
A new study has identified key steps for hospitals to improve care for pregnant mums and babies affected by congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The report highlights inconsistencies in care delivery, with some areas showing better patient-centered models. Key recommendations include focusing acute care on specialist centers and deve...
A University of Georgia study found that pregnant women who gain less than 20 pounds are more likely to have male fetuses with lower survival rates. The research analyzed over 46 million pregnancies and suggests that weight gain may play a crucial role in determining fetal sex.
A new study found that endocrine disrupting chemicals can interfere with thyroid hormone action in pregnant women and may travel across the placenta to affect fetal brain development. The study used a prospective birth cohort of 164 pregnant women and found associations between high levels of CYP1A1 enzyme and thyroid disruption.
A new study found that vitamin E deficiency is associated with a greater risk of miscarriage among pregnant women in rural Bangladesh. The research suggests that improving diet and prenatal supplements could have a direct impact on fertility.
A new study has discovered that uterine contractions during artificial insemination procedures can increase the chances of pregnancy. The research found a positive correlation between the number of uterine contractions and the rate of clinical pregnancy, as well as live births following artificial insemination.
A large-scale study led by the University of Exeter has found that boys are more likely to be stillborn than girls, with a risk increase of about ten percent. The study reviewed over 30 million births globally and found this disparity results in approximately 100,000 additional male babies lost per year.
A recent study found that tropical rickettsial illnesses, such as scrub typhus and murine typhus, can cause poor pregnancy outcomes, including stillbirth and premature birth. The study highlights the need for more research on the impact of these illnesses on pregnancy outcomes in South-East Asia.
Researchers found that antidepressant Citalopram restored connections between brain cells, reversing depressive-like behaviors and improved mood. The treatment focused on the nucleus accumbens region, regulating reward and motivation, and showed promise in addressing postpartum depression symptoms.
A study found that living kidney donors are at a higher risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia during pregnancy. Despite this, most women who become pregnant after donating a kidney have healthy pregnancies.
A new study found that adults with obese mothers before pregnancy have a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Researchers analyzed data from 1971 to 2012 on 879 participants, who were followed for 41 years, resulting in 193 cardiovascular events and 28 cardiovascular deaths.
Researchers at the University of Michigan School of Public Health found an association between phthalate exposure and increased levels of biomarkers of oxidative stress in pregnant women. Oxidative stress may be related to preterm birth, adverse fetal development, and maternal health complications.
A recent NIH-sponsored study has identified a superior three-drug regimen for preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission during pregnancy and delivery. The findings support World Health Organization guidelines, recommending a triple-drug anti-HIV regimen to all pregnant women with HIV infection.
A new review reveals significant knowledge gaps about preterm birth, its causes, and prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for increased research efforts. The authors stress that identifying women at risk and developing effective interventions are crucial to addressing this global epidemic.
A study of over 26,000 women found that Tdap vaccination during pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery or small-for-gestational-age birth. However, a higher risk of chorioamnionitis was observed among vaccinated women.
A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health found that the use of antiretroviral medications during early pregnancy does not significantly increase the risk of birth defects in infants. However, one specific ARV drug, atazanavir, was associated with a higher risk of birth defects, particularly musculoskeletal and skin anomalies.
A new study has found that the extracellular matrix component hyaluronan (HA) in the cervix provides protection against infection, which can lead to preterm birth. Mice unable to produce HA had abnormal cervical structures and higher preterm birth rates in response to infection.
A study by Elard Koch reveals that hospital discharges due to abortion complications decreased significantly in Chile since 2001. The decline was attributed to improved maternal health policies and increased women's educational level, rather than changes in abortion laws.
Researchers found that DNA Methyltransferase 3b enzyme prevents Pax3 gene from turning on, leading to neural tube defects. Dr. Loeken's discovery sheds light on a biochemical pathway and may lead to better stem cell therapy.
A Stanford/VA study found that pregnant women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at a higher risk of giving birth prematurely. The study analyzed over 16,000 births to female veterans and found that having PTSD in the year before delivery increased the risk by 35 percent.
A recent FDA and EPA guideline update suggests pregnant and breastfeeding women consume at least eight ounces to 12 ounces of fish per week. Omega-3 acids EPA and DHA found in some fish support fetal brain development and maternal health, while mercury levels in other fish pose risks.
A New York University study reveals a significant perception divide on the abortion issue, where Americans who oppose abortion are less likely to hear about their friends or family members having had an abortion. This disparity affects public opinion and may contribute to the relative stability of opinions on abortion over time.
The March of Dimes aims to reduce US preterm birth rates to 5.5% by 2030 through evidence-based interventions such as eliminating early elective deliveries and optimizing birth spacing. The organization is also funding research to discover unknown causes of premature birth and identify new interventions.
Researchers found that a blood sugar level of ≥135 mg/dL is the optimal first step cutoff for additional screening in women carrying twins, yielding 100% sensitivity with a 28.6% test positive rate. This cutoff may decrease cost and anxiety without compromising treatment effectiveness.
New research suggests that low-dose BPA exposure in infants may lead to an increased risk of food intolerance in adulthood. A study involving rats found that perinatal exposure to BPA affected developing immune systems, predisposing offspring to food intolerance.
A study of 77 women who died during pregnancy or childbirth found no racial difference in the risk of pregnancy-related death, contrary to national trends. However, distance from the hospital was significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality, suggesting that differences in health care access may be a contributing factor.
A new study examines changes in alcohol use among women with unwanted pregnancies and finds that most quit or reduce consumption upon discovery. However, some may substitute alcohol for drugs. The study's results highlight the need for interventions to help these women reduce their drinking while pregnant.
Researchers found that exposure to traffic-related air pollutants during the second trimester of pregnancy is associated with reduced lung function in preschool children. Higher levels of benzene and NO2 were linked to impaired lung function, particularly among allergic children and those from lower social classes.
A recent study by researchers at The Miriam Hospital found that newborns of mothers who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy show lower levels of stress hormones and altered DNA. This may lead to a higher risk of behavior problems and nicotine addiction in later life.
According to a recent editorial in Anaesthesia, pre-eclampsia may be caused by problems meeting the oxygen demands of the growing fetus. The condition can lead to serious health complications, including seizures, kidney failure, and haemorrhage.
A study published in Cell Reports found that female fruit flies exhibit a preference for acetic acid, or vinegar, when carrying eggs due to sensory neurons detecting stretch in the reproductive tract. This behavior is linked to pregnancy and egg production, challenging previous assumptions about hormonal influences.