Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
The American College of Physicians emphasizes the benefits of tight glucose control remain uncertain for patients aged 60-80 with Type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, USPSTF strongly reaffirms screening recommendations for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women to reduce urinary tract infections and low birthweight babies.
A large cohort study of over 87,000 women found that heavy birthweight female babies are twice as likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis in adulthood. The findings support the fetal origin of disease theory, suggesting that certain conditions and diseases may be programmed by factors during pregnancy.
Researchers found that female mice who became pregnant had significantly fewer bladder cancers than their counterparts, with an average tumor volume about 15 times greater in non-pregnant females. The study suggests a possible role for hormones in bladder cancer protection.
A Kaiser Permanente study published online in the Journal of Perinatology found that integrating substance abuse screening and treatment into routine prenatal care improved health outcomes for pregnant women. The study, which examined nearly 50,000 women, found that treating pregnant women with substance abuse early in their pregnancy ...
Researchers found that misoprostol suppresses key immune responses and allows deadly infection to occur. The study has implications for understanding rare but life-threatening infections during pregnancy. More than a half-million women have taken the two-drug combination safely since its FDA approval in 2000.
A recent study highlights the need for better treatments for malaria in pregnancy, where the use of new medicines is often restricted due to limited clinical data. The authors argue that this 'catch-22' situation can lead to inferior drugs being prescribed, putting pregnant women's lives at risk.
A study by Hospital for Special Surgery found that same-day pregnancy testing reduces the risk of miscarriage during surgery, allowing patients to weigh the risks and benefits. The protocol also eliminates financial losses due to cancelled surgeries, making it a cost-effective measure for hospitals.
A clinical trial is investigating the safety of a vaginal microbicide gel for pregnant women and their babies. The study aims to understand how pregnancy affects the body's absorption of the active drug and whether it can be transferred to the fetus.
Maternal malaria researcher Professor François Nosten has won a prestigious international prize for his groundbreaking work on treating infections in pregnant women. His research has led to a revision of guidelines and improved treatment options for millions of people worldwide.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that pregnant women can receive safe dental treatment between 13-21 weeks gestation. The research showed no significant increase in adverse outcomes from periodontal treatment and essential dental care during this time frame.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that cocaine's byproduct inhibits nerve cell development by interfering with a specific protein, cyclin A. Treatment of pregnant rats with cimetidine counteracted this inhibition, suggesting potential treatments to protect fetal brain development.
A study published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that children born to mothers who gained excessive weight during pregnancy are more likely to be overweight at age seven. The researchers suggest that encouraging healthy eating and exercise before and after pregnancy may help prevent childhood obesity.
A nationwide study of 2,635 women found a significant link between pregnancy and tooth loss, with women having more children being more prone to missing teeth. The study suggests that biological and behavioral changes during pregnancy and childbirth may contribute to tooth loss.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing found that stretching exercises reduced preeclampsia incidence by less than 5% compared to walking. The study suggests that stretching may be a protective effect against preeclampsia, particularly for women with a high risk of developing the condition.
Researchers found that antidepressant use during the first trimester of pregnancy is not associated with an increased risk of birth malformations. The study used data from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry and analyzed records of 2,329 new mothers diagnosed with psychiatric disorders.
A study found that mothers' prenatal stress may increase their babies' sensitivity to allergen exposure and future asthma risk. High levels of IgE expression in cord blood were observed among infants whose mothers experienced higher levels of stress, even with low dust mite exposure.
Researchers have successfully applied DNA fingerprinting to identify viable embryos after in vitro fertilization (IVF), opening the door for more precise embryo selection. By analyzing gene expression patterns, they aim to improve IVF outcomes by reducing multiple pregnancies and increasing successful births.
Researchers have developed a genetic trial that can identify the sex of a fetus from the eighth week of pregnancy, surpassing previous methods which required waiting until the fourth or fifth month. The method has an effectiveness rate above 98% and is based on analyzing DNA found in a pregnant woman's plasma.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a new gene trigger for preeclampsia, a dangerous pregnancy disorder affecting 5% of pregnancies worldwide. A steroid molecule, 2-ME, may serve as both a diagnostic marker and therapeutic supplement for the treatment of preeclampsia.
A study funded by the NIH found that pregnant women with higher-than-normal blood sugar levels are at greater risk of delivering babies with birth problems, including Caesarean sections and large body sizes. The study involved over 23,000 women in nine countries.
Recent studies at George Mason University found pregnant women face judgment and obstacles when applying for jobs, particularly in traditionally masculine fields. They experience overt hostility and patronizing behavior, hindering their success.
A new saliva-based HIV test has been developed by an MUHC team, providing rapid detection in approximately 20 minutes. The test uses oral mucosal transudate and has been shown to accurately identify HIV-positive individuals, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Treatment advances for fibroids and endometriosis aim to preserve reproductive potential while treating these conditions. Novel conservative approaches, including medical treatments and non-invasive procedures, are now available, offering women more choices during menopause.
A study in the Ivory Coast found that involving male partners in prenatal screening and HIV prevention increased acceptance of testing among women. Psychosocial support during key moments improved handling of the infection, while male partner involvement led to a significant increase in women agreeing to testing.
A Norwegian study found that mothers born in India, Sri Lanka, and Africa have a higher prevalence of hyperemesis gravidarum due to genetic factors. Mothers aged 20-24 years old and those with multiple fetuses also showed increased risk.
A study of 740 pregnant women in the UK found a clear link between mother's diet and infant sex, with higher energy intake around conception associated with an increased likelihood of having a son. Women who consumed more calories, especially from breakfast cereals, were also more likely to have sons.
A scientific study found that fruit-eating bats ingest mineral-rich water and clay to detoxify secondary plant compounds in fruits. Female bats take up large amounts of these minerals to counteract the detrimental effects on their embryos and juveniles.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have discovered the first clues about the ancient origins of the placenta, a vital organ exchanging gas and nutrients between mother and fetus. The study suggests that the placenta evolved from simpler tissue in eggshells of birds and reptiles.
Research reveals female vets exposed to x-rays, anaesthetic gases, and pesticides are twice as likely to miscarry during pregnancy. The study emphasizes the need for veterinarians to prioritize preventive measures and use protective devices at work.
A recent Université Laval study reveals that omega-3 intake during the last months of pregnancy has a positive impact on an infant's sensory, cognitive, and motor development. The study found a strong correlation between DHA concentration in umbilical cord blood and infant visual acuity and cognitive development.
Infants exposed to methamphetamines in utero suffer from irreversible brain damage and impaired recognition of novel objects, according to a new study. The research provides evidence for the cognitive damaging effects of these drugs on fetal development.
Research published in Lipids in Health and Disease found that pregnant and lactating rats fed a diet rich in hydrogenated fats had babies with increased fat content. The study also showed that the gene expression of adipokines was affected, leading to changes in insulin production.
A recent study found that female veterinarians are twice as likely to miscarry due to exposure to anaesthetic gases and pesticides. Researchers call for clearer advice on reproductive risks for young female vets planning to become pregnant.
Researchers found that women with Caesarean deliveries for their first child have lower fertility rates in subsequent pregnancies compared to those giving birth vaginally. The study of nearly 600,000 births shows a 12% reduction in the number of children born after a first C-section.
Pittsburgh researchers present study findings on preeclampsia, a condition affecting 5% of first pregnancies, and elevated maternal cardiovascular risk persisting after preterm birth. Researchers also explore healthcare provider conversations about substance use during pregnancy.
International experts recommend that infant formula should include DHA omega-3 and AA omega-6 to guarantee a correct eye and brain development. Breastfeeding is the preferred method of feeding, but when not possible, infant formula should meet specific nutrient levels.
A study by NYU dental researchers found that pregnant women with periodontal disease are more likely to develop gestational diabetes. The study, led by Dr. Ananda P. Dasanayake, followed 256 women and found a significant link between gum disease and inflammation and the onset of gestational diabetes.
A new University of Washington study found that despite public health campaigns, many women continue to use substances like tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol during pregnancy, while their partners' use remains stable. Men's patterns of substance use are bleaker, with men typically not targeted by these campaigns.
A medical team from the University of Leicester has developed a predictor for pregnant women who may have miscarriages, using levels of anandamide in whole blood. The study found that women with higher levels of anandamide were more likely to miscarry, while those with lower levels were more likely to have a live birth.
Research on over 18,000 UK babies found that mothers who quit smoking during pregnancy had the most easy-going infants. The study suggests that quitting smoking may boost a child's temperament and reduce behavioral problems. Heavy smokers had more difficult children with lower scores for positive mood.
A research team at Université Laval has identified genetic markers that allow the selection of eggs with the best chance of leading to successful pregnancy after in vitro fertilization (IVF). This method increases the success rate of single embryo transfer and diminishes the risk of multiple pregnancies.
Obese women should not be encouraged to gain at least 15 pounds during pregnancy, according to Saint Louis University obstetrician Raul Artal. Engaging in physical activity and proper diet can help prevent health issues like hypertension and diabetes.
A $30 million grant will fund research to improve malaria control and treatment in pregnancy across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The initiative aims to reduce maternal anaemia and low birth weight, potentially saving the lives of up to 100,000 children every year.
Research found that women consuming high amounts of meat and low amounts of fish have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain and eye function. This may lead to developmental delays in infants, emphasizing the need for dietary recommendations that promote optimal health for mothers and babies.
A study suggests that expectant women treated with imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) may be at moderate risk of developing fetal abnormalities. The majority of pregnancies resulted in normal live infants, but some were born with congenital abnormalities, including exomphalos, renal agenesis, and hemivertebrae.
African American adolescent mothers with depression are more likely to have a subsequent pregnancy within two years of giving birth. Depressive symptoms were associated with a 44% increase in risk of subsequent pregnancy, highlighting the importance of treating maternal depression.
Researchers found that tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure among pregnant women pose significant threats to maternal and child health. In some countries, rates of tobacco-related exposures are already high enough to warrant substantial concern.
Research suggests that about one in four women with HIV expect pregnancy and motherhood, with younger women more likely to make this choice. The study highlights the need for clinicians to discuss pregnancy options with HIV-positive women of childbearing age.
A large-scale study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found a strong link between physical abuse during pregnancy and premature births. Researchers surveyed 2660 Caucasian women and discovered that 24% of mothers of preterm newborns had experienced physical abuse, compared to 8% of those with term births.
A University of Houston professor found a new side effect of lead exposure: obesity in male mice born to mothers exposed to varying levels of lead. The study suggests that the link may be related to testosterone or other hormones, and highlights the need for lower acceptable lead exposure rates for pregnant women and children.
Researchers have discovered a link between viral infection, particularly from the herpes group, and pregnancy-induced hypertensive disease and pre-term birth. The study found viral nucleic acid in heel-prick blood samples of 1326 newborn babies, including over 400 with cerebral palsy.
A study found that in sub-Saharan Africa, more women die from treatable infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria than from pregnancy-related complications. Effective treatment and prevention measures can greatly reduce maternal mortality rates.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have made a breakthrough in diagnosing pre-eclampsia, a condition that affects up to 15% of pregnancies. A user-friendly diagnostic kit is being developed to test pregnant women, with potential savings estimated at £500m for the NHS.
A study of pregnant women with preeclampsia found elevated levels of a peptide that raises blood pressure, potentially explaining its development. The researchers hope the findings may lead to treatment for preeclampsia by targeting specific tissues.
A study on monkeys found that moderate prenatal exposure to alcohol and stress can lead to touch sensitivity in offspring. Researchers suggest that reducing sensory sensitivities at an early age may help prevent behavioral problems associated with fetal alcohol-related issues.
A study of over 1.38 million Danish births found a significant association between exposure to severe stressful events during the first trimester and an increased risk of schizophrenia in children. Chemicals released by the mother's brain in response to stress may affect fetal brain development, particularly in early pregnancy.
A study by Yale University researchers has identified a gene, ENPP1, linked to preterm birth and low birth weight in Hispanic women. The study found that this variant of the gene may be associated with deranged energy metabolism, a possible explanation for preterm births.
A recent study by Yale University researchers found that IVF twin pregnancies have a higher prevalence of congenital heart disease (CHD) compared to singletons. The study, which examined almost 2,000 patients, revealed a three-fold increase in CHD among IVF twins.
A new study published in Social Science Quarterly reveals that religious women are less likely to obtain abortions compared to secular women. This is because religious women tend to lead more sexually conservative lifestyles, which reduces their likelihood of becoming pregnant before marriage and seeking an abortion.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that high doses of caffeine daily during pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage, particularly among women consuming coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Women who consumed over 200mg of caffeine per day had twice the miscarriage risk compared to those with no caffeine intake.