Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
Researchers at The Wistar Institute and University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered protein markers that could predict ectopic pregnancies. A panel of biomarkers, weighing individual proteins' relative importance, may create a more sensitive and reliable test for detecting ectopic pregnancies.
Scientists have discovered biomarkers in the blood of pregnant women that could lead to early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Almost 70 proteins were found to occur at unusual levels in women with EP, with one protein called Adam12 appearing 20 times lower than in normal pregnancies.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a gene associated with the immune system that is overexpressed in placentas of women with preeclampsia, leading to a better understanding of the disorder. The finding may lead to improved screening and prenatal care for these patients and their babies.
The use of electronic fetal heart rate monitors significantly lowers infant mortality, especially in high-risk pregnancies, according to a recent study. The findings show a 53% decrease in early neonatal mortality among infants with EFM.
A study found that female rats given folic acid supplements before conception and during pregnancy had higher rates of breast cancer, with twice as many tumours and faster-growing tumours. The researchers stress the need for more research to determine whether this applies to humans.
A study found that the standard third-trimester GBS test did not accurately predict its presence during labor, while a rapid test performed at labor showed excellent accuracy. The test's performance varied among racial groups, with Hispanic and African-American women more likely to have discordant results.
Research led by Dr. Errol Norwitz found that progesterone prevents preterm labor by hindering apoptosis in fetal membranes, resulting in stronger and thicker fetal membranes. This study contributes to the understanding of what triggers labor and the role of progesterone in preventing premature birth.
Researchers found that women administering their own patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) used 30% less analgesia than those with continuous epidural infusion (CEI), while reporting similar levels of satisfaction. The study also showed a trend toward reduction in instrumented vaginal deliveries.
A randomized clinical trial found that early amniotomy in labor induction can shorten delivery time by over 10 percent and increase the likelihood of delivery within 24 hours without adverse effects. This method also greatly increases the comfort of the mother.
A recent study led by Dr. Errol R. Norwitz found that three proteins XIAP, BID, and Bcl-2 play a crucial role in preventing preterm labor by hindering apoptosis in the fetal membranes. This breakthrough research sheds light on the mechanism behind progesterone's success in preventing preterm birth.
Researchers link declining litter sizes to loss of sea ice in Hudson Bay, predicting significant threat to western polar-bear population. Climate change could reduce energy availability for pregnant females, leading to failed births or natural abortions.
Researchers used fruit flies to study fetal alcohol syndrome, finding that prenatal alcohol exposure can cause developmental problems such as intellectual disabilities and abnormal facial features. The study establishes a new model system for studying FAS, which may lead to the development of new therapies.
Researchers found that obese mothers who lost weight before pregnancy had healthier male offspring with reduced triglycerides and insulin resistance. The study suggests pre-pregnancy dietary intervention can reverse adverse metabolic effects of maternal obesity on offspring.
Teenage girls and young women infected with HIV are more likely to get pregnant and experience pregnancy complications compared to their HIV-negative peers. The study found that behaviorally acquired HIV-infected teens were seven times more likely to have multiple pregnancies than those infected at birth.
Potential risks of sex in pregnancy include premature labour, pelvic inflammatory disease, and blood clots, but the evidence is often contradictory and limited. For low-risk women, frequent intercourse may increase the risk of premature labour, while restricted activity is recommended for those at high risk
A study by University of Nottingham researchers found that areas with pharmacy emergency birth control schemes saw a five percent increase in STIs among teenagers and a 12 percent hike in under-16s. The study also suggests that EBC schemes may be associated with a small increase in teenage pregnancies.
A large trial in Uganda found that treating pregnant women for worm infections increased their child's chances of developing eczema. The study supports the 'hygiene hypothesis', which proposes that exposure to infections can modify the immune system and protect against allergies.
A recent Norwegian study found that nearly one in ten pregnant women consumes organic food regularly, with organic eggs and vegetables being the most popular choices. Women who consumed organic food were more likely to have higher education, lower incomes, and frequent exercise habits.
A Norwegian study found that mothers' satisfaction with their relationship during pregnancy is a strong predictor of overall satisfaction, peaking at 6 months old. However, both forms of satisfaction decline over time during infancy and toddlerhood.
In sub-Saharan Africa, an estimated 32 million pregnant women are at risk of malaria every year. Despite national policies to reduce and control malaria during pregnancy, coverage rates of two key interventions, insecticide-treated nets and intermittent preventive treatment, remain inadequate.
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that malaria protection methods for pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa are underutilized. Despite WHO policy, estimated coverage of intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) is only 25% and insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are used by just 17% of pregnant women at risk.
A study by Christine Aurich's group found that altrenogest treatment reduces the risk of miscarriage in older, pregnant mares. The treatment has no effect on hormone levels but enables foetuses to recover and grow at a normal rate during critical periods of development.
A systematic review found that antioxidant supplements may benefit couples trying to conceive naturally, particularly when the male partner takes antioxidants. The review of 34 trials involving over 2,800 couples suggests a higher likelihood of pregnancy or live birth when antioxidants are used.
A study found that moderate decreases in maternal nutrition during early pregnancy impaired fetal brain development, including decreased cell-to-cell connections and growth factors. The research uses a nonhuman primate model to demonstrate the importance of good maternal health and diet on fetal development.
A new study from UCSF found that virtually all pregnant women in the US are exposed to multiple chemicals, including some banned since the 1970s. The study identified over 163 chemicals, with many linked to adverse health outcomes such as preterm birth and childhood morbidity.
A new genetic blood test predicts IVF success by identifying the FMR1 gene subtype, with different subtypes associated with varying pregnancy rates. The test also suggests a link between autoimmunity and infertility, potentially informing fertility planning.
A new study reveals that women who have had chlamydia are at greater risk of an ectopic pregnancy due to a lasting effect of the infection. Researchers found that infected women produce more PROKR2 protein in their Fallopian tubes, increasing the likelihood of implantation.
The study found that a specific protein called GRA15 triggers inflammation in the host, leading to brain damage. Researchers hope to develop new drugs or vaccines to block this process and prevent chronic infections.
A significant increase in MMP-1, an enzyme produced in tissues under conditions of inflammation, was found in the blood vessels of women with preeclampsia, explaining edema and proteinuria. This finding also suggests a new mechanism for hypertension, with PAR1 activation potentially causing blood vessel contraction.
A study published in The Lancet found that deworming treatment during pregnancy does not affect infant immune responses to vaccines or infectious disease incidence. The authors suggest that the value of this intervention should be re-examined, and policy recommendations be reviewed.
Researchers found that vaccinating pregnant women against influenza prevents hospitalization in infants by 91.5%. This effective strategy protects young infants without a vaccine, and is cost-effective as it protects two individuals.
A population-based survey of neonaticides found the true incidence to be 2.1 per 100,000 births, five times higher than official estimates. Low maternal self-esteem and emotional immaturity were identified as key drivers.
Researchers identified significant effects of different treatment options on infant outcomes, including higher rates of congenital malformations in premature deliveries. The study suggests that pregnant women with breast cancer should continue their pregnancy and receive standard treatment recommendations.
Researchers from Michigan State University are investigating the relationship between cesarean-section deliveries and degenerative spondylolisthesis, a condition causing lower back pain and nerve damage in women. The study aims to quantify muscle function objectively and document variables in women with and without the disease.
A new study suggests buprenorphine is a better treatment option than methadone for opioid dependence in pregnant women, resulting in healthier babies. Babies born to mothers taking buprenorphine instead of methadone required less morphine and spent less time in the hospital.
A new study found that buprenorphine is at least as effective as methadone in treating opioid addiction during pregnancy. Babies of mothers who received buprenorphine had shorter hospital stays and required less morphine to treat neonatal abstinence syndrome.
Despite associated risks, newborns of older moms (45+ years) can overcome complications, research from Tel Aviv University reveals. The study found that most older women deliver healthy children with minimal health risks affecting the baby after three days.
Research on over 28,000 children found that prenatal exposure to mobile phones was associated with an increased risk of behavioral problems. Children exposed to mobile phones before and after birth were 50% more likely to exhibit abnormal behavior.
Research published by the American Academy of Neurology found that women who experience RLS during pregnancy are four times more likely to develop the condition again and three times more likely to have a chronic form. Symptoms may reappear later on in life or in future pregnancies.
New research suggests that exposure to nicotine during pregnancy can lead to a decrease in adult stem cells and alter synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, increasing the risk of behavioral problems such as ADHD. The findings may provide a brain-circuitry mechanism for learning disabilities in children born to smoking mothers.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that perinatal bisphenol-A exposure may decrease fertility and fecundity in female mice. The researchers compared the effects of BPA to diethylstilbestrol (DES) and concluded that they were comparable, with low doses causing reproductive problems only when evaluated over mult...
A large-scale study found that military deployment significantly influences sleep quality and quantity, with participants reporting 28% more trouble falling asleep during deployment. The study suggests promoting healthier sleep patterns may be beneficial for military service members, particularly those with mental health issues.
Research found that women who experienced recurrent miscarriage were five times more likely to have a heart attack in later life. Those who had stillbirths were also at increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
A study shows that a pregnant mother's diet impacts her infant's sense of smell, altering brain development and influencing future food preferences. The research found that exposure to odors in the womb can shape the brain's olfactory system, leading to preferred flavors in early life.
A recent study found no evidence of increased birth defect risk from proton-pump inhibitors taken during pregnancy, but an epidemiologist believes further studies are needed. The study's limitations highlight the need for more research into specific PPIs and their effects on fetal development.
During pregnancy, pregnant women can experience significant changes in their oral health, including gingivitis, pregnancy tumors, and mild to severe gingival enlargement. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene can help alleviate gum inflammation and prevent worsening of conditions.
Research published in FASEB Journal suggests that a fetal liver gene called Npas2 is a key regulator of the circadian system, which is altered by maternal high-fat diet during pregnancy. Improving diet can partially restore circadian machinery and reduce risk of childhood diseases related to obesity.
Researchers have identified a potential solution for preventing osteoporosis using potassium citrate supplements. Additionally, waist circumference measurements in children may be a better predictor of heart disease risk than body mass index. Early urine tests can also predict pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia.
The Atlas of Birth project provides a comprehensive picture of maternal health globally, highlighting high rates of death in sub-Saharan Africa and India. The interactive online map aims to inform policymakers and advocates on ways to reduce preventable deaths of girls and women in childbirth.
The study found that faster growth rates in some mammals are due to the more intimate connection between mother and baby, resulting in shorter pregnancies. Humans have relatively lengthy pregnancies due to their simple placenta structure with limited connections between mother's tissues and foetus.
Research found that mothers who smoked heavily during pregnancy had kids who were more likely to become repeat criminal offenders as adults. The study, which tracked over 4,000 adults from 1959-1966, showed a 30% increased chance of arrest among children whose mothers smoked heavily.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg found that oxytocin medication is often unnecessary in normal deliveries, particularly for healthy first-time mothers with spontaneous starts of labor. The research, which monitored over 100 women, showed no significant differences between groups in terms of complications or outcomes.
A comprehensive review of 70 research articles finds that prescribed bed rest may have negative effects on pregnant women's physical and emotional health. The study suggests that hospital stays deny women the opportunity to rest in a comfortable environment, potentially leading to depression and post-traumatic shock disorder.
A study of 28 pregnant women with MS found that lower vitamin D levels during pregnancy and breastfeeding were not associated with an increased risk of relapse after childbirth. However, women who breastfed exclusively had lower postpartum vitamin D levels, which may be related to the duration of breastfeeding rather than a causal link.
Research found a seven-fold increased risk of undescended testicles in sons born to women taking multiple painkillers during pregnancy. The study suggests that exposure to certain chemicals, including mild analgesics, can disrupt testosterone production and lead to poor semen quality and testicular cancer.
Anna R. Brandon, PhD, was honored by the March of Dimes for her research on ethical barriers to perinatal mental health research. Her work aims to improve access to evidence-based treatment for pregnant women, ensuring they receive safe and effective care during pregnancy.
David Barker's theory, the 'Barker Hypothesis,' links low birthweight to chronic diseases like coronary heart disease and obesity. His work has guided prenatal care for over two decades, emphasizing the importance of a mother's nutritional needs throughout her lifetime.
A new study led by researchers from UCLA and USC found that pregnant women whose sisters had hyperemesis gravidarum are 17 times more likely to experience the condition. Women with a family history of extreme morning sickness may be aware they may also have it, highlighting the importance of taking a family history into account.
Researchers identified placental growth factor as a promising diagnostic biomarker for ectopic pregnancies. The study found that PIGF levels were reduced in samples from tubal ectopic pregnancies compared to intrauterine pregnancies.
Research suggests that IVF/ICSI treatment may increase cerebral palsy risk, but a waiting time of over a year reduces this risk. Children born after IVF/ICSI have double the risk of cerebral palsy compared to those conceived spontaneously within two months.