Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Researchers evaluated two alternative strategies to prevent malaria in pregnancy, finding that dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine reduced clinical malaria by 84% and risk of anaemia by 22%. The new drug was also associated with lower risks of stillbirths and infant mortality.
A new study found that grandmothers who smoked during pregnancy significantly increase the risk of asthma in their grandchildren. The research used data from the Swedish Registry and included over 44,000 grandmothers from 1982 to 1986. Asthma risk was increased by 10-22%.
A new study found that monitoring specific angiogenic biomarkers in maternal blood during early pregnancy can predict patients who will have normal pregnancies and those at high risk for complications. This allows physicians to identify, counsel, and manage high-risk patients earlier.
Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus discovered that increasing Adiponectin during pregnancy can reduce the chances that the baby will become obese as well. This breakthrough could potentially break the cycle of obesity that has approached epidemic proportions in society.
The NIH has announced a significant investment in research technology to better understand the placenta's function during pregnancy. This initiative aims to identify problems with the placenta earlier, enabling physicians to intervene more quickly and improve pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers found that fruit flies exhibit a similar craving for salt during pregnancy as humans, and this preference increases offspring production. The study suggests the existence of unifying biological principles underlying this behavior across species.
A mouse model study published in PLOS Pathogens reports a causal link between prenatal malaria exposure and subsequent neurocognitive impairment in offspring. The research identifies key molecular mechanisms involved, including C5a signaling, which can be targeted to improve cognitive development.
A new study published by the NIH finds that clomiphene is more effective than letrozole for treating unexplained infertility, resulting in more live births. The study compared over 900 couples undergoing fertility treatment and found that clomiphene resulted in higher pregnancy rates and fewer multiple pregnancies.
Stillbirths are expected to increase by 52 million between now and 2035 if no action is taken. Experts advocate for clear targets to prevent stillbirths in national and global health plans.
Researchers found that women with pre-eclampsia, pre-term delivery, and small-for-gestational-age delivery are at increased risk of CVD death. High blood pressure, glycosuria, and hemoglobin decline during pregnancy also predict CVD risk. Early detection and preventive care can help prevent heart disease deaths.
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that nearly a quarter of teenagers in England and Wales who have had an abortion have been pregnant before. The research also showed that teenagers who become pregnant are at a higher risk of further pregnancies in their teenage years.
Researchers found early ultrasound signs of water absorption changes in cervix before delivery, indicating potential preterm birth risk. Current cervical length measurement methods are limited in their usefulness.
A study found that inadequate protein intake during pregnancy activates a genetic pathway leading to muscle atrophy and autophagy in the fetus. This can result in low birth weight and stunted growth in male offspring, increasing the risk of chronic health problems such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Research published in Diabetologia reveals a strong association between early pregnancy exposure to organic pollutants and an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Women with high levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were found to be four times more likely to develop the condition.
A multidisciplinary team is developing guidelines for the most effective antidepressant doses throughout pregnancy and postpartum, building on recent initiatives like CDC's Treating for Two and FDA's new labeling requirements.
A new report from the University of East Anglia found that mothers who quit smoking in pregnancy are more likely to light up again if they feel stressed and lack support. The study highlights the importance of partner support, social influences, and women's beliefs about smoking in preventing postpartum relapse.
A study in a malaria-endemic region found that daily iron supplementation during pregnancy did not increase the risk of malaria, but resulted in increased birth weight and improved fetal outcomes. The authors suggest that universal iron supplementation may outweigh potential risks in low- and middle-income countries.
The American College of Physicians recommends policies for the use of telemedicine in primary care settings, aiming to improve access to care while balancing benefits and risks. The position paper offers more than a dozen policy statements and recommendations for utilization and reimbursement.
A new study of over 300 women suggests that phthalate exposure may be associated with miscarriage, particularly between 5-13 weeks of pregnancy. Higher levels of urinary phthalate metabolites were found to be linked to pregnancy loss, supporting an association that warrants further research.
Researchers found male seahorses play a crucial role in nourishing and protecting embryos during pregnancy, delivering energy-rich lipids and calcium. Their gene expression during pregnancy was also similar to that of humans, suggesting a common genetic mechanism for managing pregnancy across species.
The new ESC guidelines offer improved management of pericardial diseases, including acute pericarditis and constrictive pericarditis. The guidelines provide specific diagnostic criteria and treatment recommendations, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with these conditions.
A study found that pregnant women with hypertension are more likely to develop hypertension later in life. Their siblings, particularly brothers, also face an increased risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease.
A Swedish study found inadequate levels of iodine among pregnant women, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to optimize nutrition during pregnancy. The median urinary iodine concentration was significantly lower than recommended minimum levels.
A new University of Pittsburgh analysis found that obese women are more likely to experience stillbirths due to placental diseases and hypertension. The study suggests that monitoring these complications and promoting weight loss before pregnancy can reduce the risk of stillbirth.
A new study by Aarhus University found that women undergoing fertility treatment can achieve similar pregnancy rates without daily hormonal vaginal gel, instead receiving a small injection of pregnancy-stimulating hormone HCG. This more natural treatment option reduces discomfort and side effects, providing a patient-friendly alternative.
Studies find HIV-infected women receive inadequate prenatal care, resulting in low viral suppression rates at delivery. Women connected to care soon after delivery are more likely to remain in care and achieve viral suppression.
A UC sociology study reveals that reality TV and fictional programs have a significant impact on pregnant women's expectations of pregnancy and birth. Women with lower educational attainment tend to view TV as an alternative to traditional childbirth education, while highly educated women frame it as entertainment for young children.
A population study reveals that a well-balanced maternal diet before pregnancy reduces the risk of certain heart abnormalities in newborns. The research found that women with higher diet quality had a lower risk of congenital heart defects, including tetralogy of Fallot and atrial septal defects.
A study by Danielle Bessett examines the impact of reality TV and fictional programs on pregnant women's perceptions of pregnancy and childbirth. The research reveals clear class differences in how women view television as a source of information, with more educated women downplaying its influence.
A study of nearly 1,000 women in Pennsylvania found that partnership status and frequency of sexual intercourse were key predictors of prescription contraceptive use. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are used by only 7.2% of women ages 15-44, despite being highly effective.
Researchers found significant differences in reproductive tract microbiomes between women who delivered preterm and full-term babies. The study suggests that these differences can predict early pregnancy risks and may help identify women at risk of preterm birth.
The Women's Medicine Collaborative will investigate the link between sleep apnea and placental function in pregnant women. The study aims to determine whether changes in the placenta are associated with sleep abnormalities, with potential implications for pregnancy outcomes.
A recent study from McGill University Health Centre reveals that gestational diabetes in mothers can be a predictor for type 2 diabetes in their fathers. The research analyzed data from Quebec between 1990 and 2007, finding that men whose partners have gestational diabetes are 33% more likely to develop the disease.
A new study published in Journal of Hepatology found that women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) are at a higher risk of hepatobiliary cancer and immune-mediated diseases later in life. ICP affects nearly 0.4-1.5% of pregnancies and is characterized by itching, elevated serum bile acids, and/or liver enzymes.
Modeling research suggests that universal iodine supplementation during pregnancy in mildly iodine deficient countries like the UK could save the National Health Service £200 per expectant mother, while providing monetary benefits of around £4500 per child from increased lifetime earnings.
A new study from Rice University finds that living in areas with lower socio-economic resources but higher social acceptability of smoking increases the likelihood of pregnant women smoking. Counties with higher socio-economic status have lower odds of women smoking during pregnancy, while neighboring counties' smoking prevalence signi...
Postpartum body contouring combines abdominoplasty, breast lift surgery, and other procedures to address various regions affected by pregnancy, aiming for a youthful appearance. The combined approach can provide a firmer abdomen, restore breasts, and address issues in adjacent areas with minimal downtime and controlled costs.
A University of Queensland study has found that drinking alcohol around the time of conception increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity in early middle age. Research using laboratory rat models showed that exposure to five standard drinks before implantation causes changes to the embryo, leading to increased risk.
Researchers are investigating the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on child behavior, memory, and learning. The four-year study aims to close a gap in research by examining thyroid hormone levels and their association with chemical exposure during pregnancy, infancy, or childhood.
A study published in the Journal of Internet Medicine Research found that over 90% of low-income inner-city pregnant and postpartum women use smartphones to give and get information. The researchers suggest using cellphone interventions to improve health outcomes among this population.
A new study reveals that adverse childhood experiences can heighten a woman's risk of preterm birth, with the risk doubling if two or more events occur. Researchers hope to develop early interventions and predict which women are at risk of preterm birth.
A study published in JAMA reveals that noninvasive prenatal testing for fetal chromosome abnormalities can detect underlying conditions in the mother, including cancer. The test analyzes placental and maternal DNA to identify chromosomal abnormalities, but may also reveal undiagnosed cancers in mothers.
A newborn's first stool may indicate a child's risk for persistent cognitive problems, according to a new Case Western Reserve University study. High levels of fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE) in meconium can predict lower IQ scores and developmental issues.
A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology found that treating obese pregnant women with the diabetes drug metformin does not reduce their babies' birth weights. Despite this, the treatment did help lower blood sugar levels in mothers-to-be and markers linked to pre-eclampsia and premature births.
A large-scale trial found that an intensive diet and exercise regime does not prevent gestational diabetes in obese pregnant women. However, the intervention led to reductions in pregnancy weight gain, lower glycaemic load, and higher activity levels, which were associated with healthier outcomes for mothers and children.
A study published in The BMJ found an association between SSRI antidepressants and increased risk of birth defects in infants. Sertraline was the only SSRI not linked to higher risks, while fluoxetine and paroxetine were associated with heart wall defects and irregular skull shape, respectively
A large population-based study found that women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) have a higher risk of hepatobiliary cancer, immune-mediated diseases, and cardiovascular disease compared to those without the condition. ICP is characterized by pruritus, elevated serum bile acids, and liver enzymes in late pregnancy.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that poor sanitation practices, such as open defecation, were associated with increased risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes among women in rural India. Nearly two-thirds of the women studied practiced open defecation, and a quarter experienced preterm birth or low birth weight.
A $1.25 million NIH grant will fund research into the effectiveness of rosiglitazone, a diabetic medication, in stimulating placental function and halting severe preeclampsia. The condition is responsible for 76,000 maternal deaths and 500,000 infant deaths annually worldwide.
A retrospective study found that women with epilepsy have an increased risk of maternal death and adverse outcomes during delivery. The authors identified 80 deaths per 100,000 pregnancies among women with epilepsy, compared to 6 deaths per 100,000 pregnancies without epilepsy.
A study of nearly 18,000 women in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand found that 20-80% drank during pregnancy, with higher rates among smokers. The prevalence of binge drinking was also common, particularly before pregnancy. Factors associated with lower risk included age, ethnicity, education level, and body weight.
A study of nearly 1,000 teens found that sexually active obese adolescents were significantly less likely to use contraception than normal weight peers. Obese adolescents who did use contraception were also less likely to use it consistently, according to the University of Michigan Health System study.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMTh) decreased postpartum low back pain by over 70 percent in women who had given birth at least three months before beginning treatment. Participants reported a significant improvement in quality of life, with a 7...
Despite fewer legal barriers, women in developed countries still face significant inequities in abortion access due to inadequate service provision, moral opposition, and inadequate training. The review suggests improving access by increasing training, boosting service options, and making services more affordable or free.
India's abortion law is criticized for its arbitrary 20-week cut-off, compelling women to continue pregnancies against their wishes. This can lead to physical and mental trauma, unsafe abortions, and related maternal mortality.
A meta-analysis published in The BMJ found that women who experience a stillbirth have up to a fourfold increased risk of stillbirth in a second pregnancy. Pregnancies should be closely monitored, and antenatal interventions offered for women at high risk. Improved care and research are needed to address this major public health concern.
The VA/DoD guidelines differ from the ACC/AHA guidelines in several aspects, including treatment targets and risk prediction tests. The guidelines also recommend a shared decision-making approach to determine medication benefits versus harms for each patient.
A new study identifies risk factors for poor pregnancy outcomes in women with lupus, but also reveals that most pregnancies are uncomplicated. The research suggests that women with lupus who have mild disease and no underlying health issues can have a healthy pregnancy.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that maternal stress during pregnancy can 'reprogram' the developing brains of her children through changes in the vaginal microbiome. This initial exposure affects gut microbiota, metabolism, and brain development.
A study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that most women with lupus can expect a good pregnancy outcome, but those with specific risk factors such as antiphospholipid antibodies are at higher risk. The study identified clinical features and early detection of certain antibodies to predict serious pregnancy complications.