Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in treating various respiratory diseases. A new algorithm-based treatment for pregnant women with asthma has been found to be effective in reducing exacerbations. Additionally, a selective retinoid agonist may slow disease progression in emphysema, while sirolimus shows promise in patient...
A large randomized trial in rural Bangladesh found that supplementation with vitamin A or beta carotene did not reduce all-cause maternal, fetal, or infant mortality. The study suggested that preventing vitamin A deficiency could improve maternal survival, but the benefits of supplementation were unclear.
A large Danish study found no significant association between prenatal use of newer-generation antiepileptic drugs and major birth defects. The study included data on over 837,000 infants and compared their birth defect rates with those exposed to older-generation antiepileptic drugs.
A study from Johns Hopkins researchers found a link between a gene variation and infertility in women, with the altered gene affecting cholesterol regulation and pregnancy hormone production. The discovery may lead to a treatment for this condition, as a cholesterol medication shown to work in mice could potentially restore fertility.
A recent study found that expectant fathers experience unique stress related to pregnancy, which affects the health of their partners and infants. The research recommends providing prenatal care for men to encourage them to take an active role in pregnancy and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
A Cochrane Systematic Review revises conclusions on two fertility treatments, finding GnRH antagonists comparable to agonists in live birth rates while reducing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome risks. This shift justifies the use of GnRH antagonists over agonists.
A new study found that women participating in a mind/body program for stress reduction while undergoing IVF treatment had a significantly higher pregnancy rate (52%) compared to those who did not participate (20%). The study suggests that psychological distress may be an important detriment to IVF outcome.
Research at Digestive Disease Week 2011 reveals that a high carbohydrate intake increases the risk of developing gallstones during pregnancy. Additionally, symptoms of lactose intolerance may actually be linked to somatoform disorders, which can lead to counterproductive behaviors like restrictive diets.
Researchers detected adalimumab levels in cord blood and infants exposed to the medication in utero, highlighting the need for close monitoring of infection risk in newborns. The study suggests that pregnant women with Crohn's disease should not discontinue the medication, as it may exacerbate flares and lead to complications.
A study published in Reproductive Toxicology found that maternal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during pregnancy is associated with decreased birth weight of offspring. Researchers also discovered that the magnitude of decrease in birth weight was greater in children whose mothers were directly exposed to high BPA levels in the workplace.
A new UTHealth trial aims to help pregnant women quit smoking by testing the safety and efficacy of bupropion, a medication that has been shown to almost double the success rate of smoking cessation in nonpregnant smokers. Pregnant women who smoke are at risk for premature rupture of membranes, low birth weight, and infant mortality.
A new study found that Latinas who endure domestic violence during or within a year of pregnancy are five times more likely to experience postpartum depression. The researchers suggest that recent exposure to intimate partner violence is a stronger predictor of postpartum depression than prenatal depression.
Researchers found that higher BPA concentrations at 16 weeks of pregnancy were associated with wheezing in children, while effects diminished as they aged. More research is needed to confirm the correlation between BPA and wheezing in children.
Research suggests that obese pregnant women have impaired immune function, leading to fewer cells and proteins that help fight infections. This could have serious consequences for both the mother and newborn.
A study of 367 mothers and infants found that prenatal exposure to BPA was associated with an increased risk of wheezing in childhood, particularly among the youngest group. High levels of BPA detected in women at 16 weeks' gestation were linked to wheeze in their offspring, but not after 3 years of age.
A University of Colorado School of Medicine researcher has won a $100,000 grant to investigate the cause of preeclampsia, which affects four to eight percent of pregnant women in developed countries. The goal is to find a central unifying factor behind the condition, which kills over 75,000 women and babies annually.
A recent study found that medication use among pregnant women is widespread and varies by socioeconomic status, maternal age, race/ethnicity, and state of residence. The study also revealed a significant increase in the use of prescription medications during the first trimester, with antidepressants showing dramatic increases.
A new survey by the Interactive Autism Network reveals that approximately half of parents report their child eloping from safe places, peaking at age four. The study highlights critical safety concerns, including increased risk of trauma, injury, or death. Additionally, a new research survey on pregnancy and birth factors associated wi...
Research from Research Australia found a link between stressful events during pregnancy and increased risk of behavioral problems in children. The study analyzed the timing, amount, and types of stressors to determine their impact on child behavior outcomes.
Researchers investigate whether statins can prevent pre-eclampsia by targeting an enzyme that suppresses two proteins linked to the condition. The study, funded by the Medical Research Council, aims to test the effectiveness of statins in reducing blood pressure risks for pregnant women diagnosed with very early-onset pre-eclampsia.
New research reveals that thalidomide's toxic effects on embryos result from its breakdown products producing reactive oxygen species, causing DNA damage and birth defects. The study uses a rabbit embryo culture model to demonstrate the link between thalidomide and its hydrolysis products.
Researchers at Brigham Young University and the University of Utah have developed a blood test that can identify high-risk pregnancies for pre-term birth with high accuracy. The test detects three new peptide biomarkers that signal increased risk, allowing for early intervention and potentially prolonging pregnancy by one or two weeks.
Researchers found that variations in the follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene may increase a woman's risk for delivering her infant prematurely. The study suggests that human gestation has been pushed to shorter times due to evolutionary changes, which could lead to new targets for therapeutic or preventive measures.
Stillbirths in low-income and middle-income countries are a major concern, with 98% of all stillbirths occurring in these regions. The Lancet report highlights the need for improved data collection and classification of programmatic causes of stillbirths.
Despite being among the wealthiest nations, high-income countries like the US, UK, and Australia still experience high rates of stillbirths. The causes are complex, but factors such as obesity, advanced maternal age, smoking, and socioeconomic disparities contribute to these statistics.
Research published at University of Rochester Medical Center found that high induction and primary C-section rates in low-risk pregnant women have no impact on newborn health. The study's findings question the increasing trend of interventions at delivery in the US, suggesting that 'more is not always better'.
Researchers found that low doses of penta-BDEs altered gene expression in reproductive organs and thyroid hormones in female rat offspring exposed in utero and via maternal milk. Osteopontin gene expression was significantly increased, which may have long-term implications for human health.
A randomized trial of 52 pregnant women found that those consuming fish oil supplements had significantly lower postpartum depression symptoms and fewer anxiety-related issues. The study suggests that DHA consumption during pregnancy has the potential to decrease symptoms of postpartum depression.
A recent study found no association between corticosteroid use during pregnancy and orofacial clefts in infants. However, dermatological corticosteroids were linked to an increased risk of cleft lip with or without cleft palate. The study's results add to the safety information for corticosteroids commonly used during pregnancy.
Researchers found drinking during early pregnancy increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight, while heavy drinkers were more likely to have unplanned pregnancies and very premature births. The study emphasized the need for improved detection of alcohol misuse in pregnancy.
A study found that exercising during pregnancy can help infants develop healthier hearts, with improved cardiovascular function maintained even after birth. The research suggests that interventions should focus on pregnant women to promote better health outcomes for children.
The Experimental Biology 2011 conference showcased cutting-edge research in biochemical battle of the bulge, DNA replication, and bone health. Researchers presented findings on obesity, cancer, and gene therapy, highlighting the importance of understanding cellular processes in disease prevention.
A NIH study found that progesterone reduced the rate of preterm birth before 33 weeks of pregnancy among women with a short cervix. Infants born to these women were also less likely to develop respiratory distress syndrome.
A new method for preventing premature birth has been announced, showing that treating pregnant women at risk with a low-cost progesterone gel can reduce the rate of early preterm delivery in women with short cervix by 45%. The study found that progesterone also reduced respiratory distress syndrome in premature babies.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered a gene expression pattern in breast tissue that differs between post-menopausal women who had children and those who did not. This genomic signature may help scientists understand why pregnancy reduces breast cancer risk and develop chemopreventive strategies.
Research suggests that living near a busy road junction increases the likelihood of premature birth by 4.4%. The study found that even short distances from freeways can have negative effects on gestation times. Reducing traffic emissions through improved vehicles or public transport use could provide immediate health benefits.
The ALSPAC project will investigate how behavior before birth, infancy, childhood, and adolescence affect adult health. Researchers will collect data from three generations: the original mothers and children, their adult offspring, and now, grandchildren.
A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brain growth in babies is linked to maternal investment, including duration of pregnancy and breastfeeding period. The research suggests that longer pregnancies and breastfeeding periods result in bigger brains for babies.
A University of Georgia study found a supervised, low-to-moderate intensity weight-lifting exercise program to be safe and beneficial for pregnant women. The research showed that participants increased their strength without experiencing musculoskeletal injuries or significant changes in blood pressure.
Research published in The FASEB Journal found that rats whose mothers ate high-fat, high-sugar diets had babies that preferred similar foods. This study suggests that exposure to junk food during pregnancy and breastfeeding may shape a child's eating habits.
A University of Rochester Medical Center study found that a mother's iron deficiency early in pregnancy can have a long-lasting effect on the child's brain development, even if it's not severe enough to cause anemia. The research suggests that monitoring a pregnant woman's iron status beyond anemia is crucial.
Researchers identified genetic mutations in women with lupus and/or antiphospholipid antibodies that may predispose them to preeclampsia. The study's findings suggest new targets for treating the condition and raising the possibility of tests to identify women at increased risk
Researchers identified genetic errors in women with autoimmune diseases and preeclampsia, suggesting new treatments and screening tests. The study found mutations in three genes involved in the immune response to injury, providing a potential link between preeclampsia and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that adolescent girls exposed to heavy alcohol use during their first trimester were three times more likely to develop conduct disorder. The study examined 592 adolescents and their mothers or caretakers, utilizing data from a long...
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that feeding rats antioxidants during pregnancy prevented obesity and glucose intolerance in their offspring. The study suggests that preventing oxidative stress during pregnancy may lower the risk of childhood obesity.
A Norwegian study found that women unhappy with their relationships were more likely to experience depression during pregnancy. A good relationship, on the other hand, served as a buffer against everyday stresses, helping women cope better with work-related issues, financial problems, or moving house.
A recent study found that daily iron supplements do not significantly increase hemoglobin levels in healthy pregnant women, but can help alleviate iron-poor blood conditions in Africa. Researchers followed over 1,000 pregnant women and discovered that all participants ended with similar iron levels after three months.
The Boston Medical Center will receive a $245,000 grant to enhance its Centering Pregnancy program, which has been shown to decrease late preterm delivery by up to 40% and increase pregnancy knowledge and satisfaction with care. The grant aims to promote preventive care and address health disparities in Massachusetts.
A study published in Pediatrics found that pregnant non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke have a higher risk of delivering stillborn babies or babies with congenital birth defects. Passive smoking increased the risk of stillbirth by nearly one-quarter and was linked to a 13% increased risk of congenital birth defects.
The March of Dimes is investing $2.4 million in new funding for research on predicting and preventing preterm birth, a leading cause of infant death. Five scientists will study low doses of carbon monoxide, genes, blood tests to identify high-risk women, and fetal membrane weakening.
Poor diet during pregnancy increases offspring's vulnerability to aging effects, leading to increased risk of type 2 diabetes and age-related diseases. The study reveals a novel mechanism by which maternal diet interacts with epigenetics to influence gene expression in offspring throughout life.
A study found that women who have experienced pregnancy loss may continue to suffer from depression and anxiety, even after having a healthy baby. The study suggests that previous pregnancy loss should be taken into account when assessing the risk of antenatal or postnatal depression.
Researchers link Henry VIII's reproductive issues, including multiple miscarriages, to Kell blood group incompatibility. The study also suggests McLeod syndrome as a possible cause for his dramatic physical transformation and mental instability.
A €2.6 million research program is training Malawian clinical officers to improve prenatal care and reduce childbirth mortality rates. The goal is to educate 50 clinical officers, who will then teach others, and ultimately assess the impact on mortality rates.
Women who experience depression and anxiety after a miscarriage may continue to feel these symptoms after a healthy child is born. The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children found that mental health problems associated with miscarriage or stillbirth do not end with the birth of a healthy baby, but can persist for several years.
Researchers have discovered that adding one or two drugs to the standard ZDV treatment can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission from mother to infant. The study found that treatment with two and three drug regimens reduced HIV transmission by more than 50%.
Researchers developed an intervention to help pregnant women control their weight, with normal-weight women more likely to stay at a healthy weight. The program increased the chance of returning to pre-pregnancy weight six months after delivery, but had limited success for obese or overweight women during pregnancy.
A study by Amanda Phipps at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that full-term pregnancies increase the risk of triple-negative breast cancer, while never giving birth lowers it. Conversely, childless women face a higher risk of estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer.
A recent study found that maternal fructose consumption during pregnancy results in sex-specific changes in fetal and neonatal endocrinology, with female fetuses showing higher leptin and blood glucose levels. Male offspring also exhibit increased plasma fructose levels and hypoinisulinemia.
Researchers found a significant decrease in unintended pregnancies and abortions when women received a one-year supply of oral contraceptives. The study suggests that a larger supply allows for more consistent use, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits or resupply trips.