Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
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.
Research from the University of Adelaide found that healthy eating and increased physical activity during pregnancy are associated with significant improvements in baby outcomes. Pregnant women who received dietary and lifestyle advice experienced reduced weight gain, increased fruit and vegetable consumption, and improved respiratory ...
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered that stretching the amniotic membrane leads to the overproduction of prostaglandin E2, damaging tissue and reducing its mechanical properties. This overproduction activates a protein called connexin 43, potentially leading to rupture and pre-term birth.
A new study finds that intensive parenting and health education provided in homes of pregnant American Indian teens reduced drug use, depression, and behavior problems. The Family Spirit intervention was also cost-effective and created badly needed jobs in low-income communities.
A new study found that PCBs can infiltrate the placenta during pregnancy and affect thyroid hormone activity at the cellular level. This may be particularly concerning for pregnant women who smoke, as it can lead to higher levels of the enzyme CYP1A1 in the placental tissue.
Frequent consumption of fried foods has been linked to a higher risk of overweight and obesity. Women who consumed total fried foods 7 times or more per week had an 88% increased risk of GDM compared to those who consumed less than once per week.
A new study reveals that probiotic yogurt can reduce the uptake of mercury and arsenic in pregnant women by up to 78%, while also showing positive but not statistically effective results in children. The probiotic strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, binds to heavy metals and prevents their absorption.
Researchers found a significant protective effect of probiotics against mercury and arsenic in pregnant women, while children showed benefits but lacked statistical significance. The study suggests basic foodstuffs like yogurt could provide preventative protection for pregnant women worldwide.
A recent study from Tel Aviv University suggests that prenatal exposure to viruses may cause type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases in children. The researchers found a link between winter epidemics and increased levels of damaging antibodies in cord blood, indicating autoimmune damage to islet cells during gestation.
A MU researcher has received a $1 million grant from the CDC to enhance prevention efforts for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. The goal is to educate healthcare professionals and increase awareness of the dangers of drinking during pregnancy.
A Washington University in St. Louis study found that the Supreme Court tends to decide significant cases at the end of its session, with over 30% of these decisions issued in June. The researchers propose three possible explanations for this trend: legacy concerns, public relations considerations, and social schedules.
A new study found that providing free contraception and education on various methods significantly reduced teen pregnancies, births, and abortions. Among participants, 72% opted for long-acting forms like IUDs or implants, leading to a 34-per-1,000 pregnancy rate among teens compared to 158.5 in 2008.
Research in mice suggests that maternal cigarette smoking can affect the fertility of male offspring, causing reduced sperm counts, poor sperm shape, and impaired fertility. The study's findings have implications for human health, particularly for men who were exposed to cigarette toxins in the womb.
A recent study found that adhering to healthy lifestyle habits such as a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and not smoking can significantly reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. The study estimated that nearly half of all diabetic pregnancies could be prevented through these low-risk lifestyle factors.
A new BU study found that prenatal exposure to tetrachloroethylene in drinking water may increase the risk of stillbirth and placental abruption. The study, which compared over 2,000 pregnancies, found a significant association between PCE exposure and an elevated risk of these pregnancy complications.
Researchers detected a distinctive DNA signature in children born after the massive Quebec ice storm, linked to maternal hardship and stress. The study found that objective stress exposure, not emotional distress, caused long-lasting changes in the epigenome of their babies.
Children exposed to chemotherapy or radiotherapy in utero suffer no negative impacts on mental or cardiac development, according to international studies presented at ESMO 2014. These findings confirm that chemotherapy and radiotherapy during pregnancy do not endanger the fetus and its subsequent development.
A recent study found that mefloquine, an antimalarial drug, was not effective as an alternative to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) for malaria prevention during pregnancy. Despite its safety profile, the drug showed poor tolerability and limited benefits for fetal health in HIV-positive women.
A study of pregnant women receiving computerized decision-support guides found significantly less invasive diagnostic testing compared to those without. The intervention resulted in more women choosing no or screening-only testing strategies.
A new study found that pregnant women's immune cells produce more cytokines and chemokines when exposed to flu viruses, leading to a hyperinflammatory response. This unexpected finding highlights the need for new treatment approaches for severe influenza in pregnancy.
A flu shot is crucial for pregnant women to prevent serious illness and protect their babies from influenza. Vaccinated moms also have a lower risk of flu-related hospitalizations for chronic asthma, heart conditions, diabetes, and other health issues.
The article emphasizes the need for improved access to female-controlled contraceptive methods to counteract reproductive health risks caused by intimate partner violence. Clinicians can help women and girls regain control over their reproductive health through availability of effective contraceptives.
A study found that antenatal magnesium sulfate treatment was not associated with improved outcomes in children born at less than 28 weeks' gestation. Despite its neuroprotective effects for preterm fetuses, the treatment had no long-term benefits on neurological, behavioral, growth, or functional outcomes.
A recent UChicago study found that pregnant teens will turn to supportive parents and adults in their lives for help making the abortion decision. The majority of young women involved a parent or guardian, driven by factors like close relationships, need for logistics assistance, and concerns about parental interference.
Adequate vitamin E levels are critical for fetal development and nervous system health. Inadequate intake is linked to increased infection, anemia, stunting of growth, and poor pregnancy outcomes.
Research on over 4,000 participants found that binge drinking during pregnancy can lead to increased hyperactivity and inattention in children, affecting their academic performance. The study suggests that exposure to alcohol in the womb may be a risk factor for long-term mental health issues.
A new study has discovered that progestogen hormones can significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth for a specific group of high-risk twin pregnancies. Women with short cervices who are pregnant with twins saw a 50% decrease in preterm birth, highlighting a potential game-changer in obstetric care.