Articles tagged with Pregnancy
A study found that maternal infection during pregnancy and very preterm birth are associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy. Brain MRI scans also revealed white-matter damage as the most common finding in children with cerebral palsy, with strong correlations between clinical findings and brain scan results.
A study by the University of Alberta links paternal airborne exposure to organic solvents used in painting, thinning and cleaning to increased risk of low birth weight and congenital birth defects. Workers exposed to these chemicals were up to six times more likely to father malformed babies.
Scientists have named a new species of ancient marine reptile, Maiaspondylus lindoei, and discovered pregnant embryos in its fossil, marking the most recent record of a live birth in an ichthyosaur. The findings provide valuable insights into the evolution and extinction of these aquatic animals.
A study by Tufts University researchers found that pregnancy and lactation produce long-term changes in a mother's brain hormone receptors, which may improve maternal behavior and reduce anxiety levels. This discovery suggests that prior reproductive experience can shape the mother's physiology and behavior.
A recent study found that women who take multivitamins early in pregnancy may reduce their child's risk of developing certain types of brain tumors. The protective effect was strongest when multivitamins were taken close to conception, with a weakly significant reduction in the risk of medulloblastoma and primitive neuroectodermal tumors.
Preeclampsia's impact on fetal death has decreased over the last 35 years, largely due to reduced stillbirths and better clinical management. Modern medical management has effectively prevented fetal deaths without increasing infant or maternal risk.
Research emphasizes the importance of preconception care in reducing pregnancy risks, birth defects, and premature birth. Experts recommend discussing reproductive health with doctors during routine visits.
A new supplement provides essential information on preconception care, emphasizing the importance of women's health before pregnancy. The supplement covers topics such as folic acid supplements, vaccinations, and screening for HIV, as well as measures to avoid harmful substances like alcohol and anti-epileptic drugs.
Research from the University of North Carolina finds that low adrenomedullin hormone levels may cause preeclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Pregnant mice with reduced adrenomedullin levels had smaller litter sizes, overcrowded embryo spacing, and poor fetal growth.
A University of Pittsburgh study reveals that weight concerns can decrease a woman's motivation to remain smoke-free postpartum. Women who were confident in their ability to control their weight without smoking were more motivated to stay abstinent.
Research from Oregon Health & Science University reveals that children born to overeating mothers are at risk for liver and pancreas damage, contributing to early-onset obesity and diabetes. Brain changes in the hypothalamus also occur, predisposing them to weight problems.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found no increased risk of pregnancy loss related to drinking water disinfection by-products. The research, led by David A. Savitz, Ph.D., used data from 2,409 women and 258 pregnancy losses, concluding that tap water DBPs do not pose a measurable risk to fetal health.
Research reveals two proteins in blood foretell development of preeclampsia, a life-threatening complication of pregnancy. High levels of soluble endoglin and sFlt1 indicate severe forms of preeclampsia and offer hope for early detection and cure.
A Queen's University study suggests administering low doses of carbon monoxide to pregnant women may help prevent the potentially damaging effects of pre-eclampsia, a condition affecting five to seven per cent of pregnancies. The research found that carbon monoxide may relax blood vessels and prevent cell death in the placenta.
A study found that maternal drinking during early pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of alcohol disorders in children, with increased exposure associated with difficulties in thinking, learning, and memory. The study suggests that in utero exposure to alcohol may predispose individuals to early onset of alcohol disorders.
Researchers found that carbon monoxide can prevent placental cell death caused by oxidative stress injury in a study published in The American Journal of Pathology. This finding suggests that carbon monoxide may be a possible treatment modality for pre-eclampsia, which affects 5-7% of pregnancies.
Research suggests that children whose mothers had low vitamin E intake during pregnancy are more likely to develop wheezing and asthma by age five. Vitamin E exposure was found to have a dual effect on lung function and airway inflammation, with effects differing between early and later pregnancy.
Two genetic markers, one associated with African American babies and the other with women with chronic hypertension, have been identified as potential predictors of preterm birth. The findings could lead to improved diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of preterm birth, reducing its risks for lifelong health complications.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that two-thirds of pregnant women with full-blown major depression aren
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that managing early pregnancy failures in an office setting is an acceptable option for many women, with lower costs and longer procedures compared to operating room procedures. Women opted for the office procedure reported higher pain levels but no major complications.
Research reveals that young people who use condoms often apply them too late or remove them too soon, increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Those with a close relationship with their mothers are more likely to use condoms correctly.
A recent study published in Neurology found that the epilepsy drug valproate poses a significantly higher risk of fetal death and birth defects than other commonly used epilepsy drugs. The study, which examined 333 pairs of mother and child, showed that over 20% of pregnancies exposed to valproate resulted in death or birth defects.
Researchers found that young teens see pregnancy as an opportunity to enhance relationships, but also express concerns about the impact on their education, finances, and overall well-being. The study highlights the need for tailored intervention strategies to address teen-pregnancy prevention.
Researchers at Yale University found that prolonged and frequent ultrasound exposure on pregnant mice causes brain abnormalities, including scattered neurons in inappropriate cortical layers. The study suggests caution against non-medical ultrasound use on human fetuses, but supports its medical applications.
A Johns Hopkins study found that domestic violence during pregnancy doubles the risk of death for children in the earliest stages of life. Researchers estimate nearly 1 in 5 perinatal and neonatal deaths could be prevented with domestic violence elimination.
A new study in mice reveals that marijuana use at conception and early pregnancy can cause embryos to fail to reach the uterus, resulting in early pregnancy failure. The study found that THC, a major psychoactive component of marijuana, disrupts anandamide signaling, leading to impaired fertility and ectopic pregnancies.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that marijuana use at conception and early pregnancy can prevent embryos from safely passing to the uterus, leading to early pregnancy failure. The study also showed that THC, a psychoactive component of marijuana, can swamp normal signaling systems, causing implantat...
A University of Pittsburgh study found that regular multivitamin use before and during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of preeclampsia, particularly among non-overweight women. The study showed a 72% reduction in risk for these women compared to those who didn't take multivitamins.
The new non-invasive test allows for fetal sex determination at 5-7 weeks of gestation, sparking debates about the technology's implications. Experts warn that rapid policymaking is needed to address ethical concerns surrounding its use, particularly in cases where abortion is considered.
Researchers found that nicotine exposure in rat fetuses led to impaired auditory processing and cognitive deficits. The study suggests that prenatal nicotine exposure damages brain receptors, affecting sound sensitivity and higher cognitive functions.
Research conducted by Fundación BBVA and IDIBAPS found that intermittent treatment with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine significantly reduces the incidence of clinical malaria in children under one year old, with a 22.2% decrease in cases reported. The study also assessed the safety and efficacy of this treatment in pregnant volunteers.
A new study published in The Lancet found that a fertility technique commonly used to help couples conceive is not effective for those with a 30% chance of natural pregnancy. Intrauterine insemination with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was no more successful than expectant management for couples with this high pregnancy rate.
A recent study found that pregnant women with fibromyalgia suffer from heightened pain and fatigue. The research also highlights the need for better diagnosis and support for these women, who often struggle to manage their condition.
A national study found that violence from male partners increases the risk of serious health complications during pregnancy and birth. Abused women were more likely to experience high blood pressure, premature delivery, and low birth weight, posing grave health risks to newborns.
A study of 25 pregnant women with inflammatory arthritis found that changes in serum fetal DNA levels correlated with disease improvement during pregnancy, but not postpartum. The researchers observed a significant inverse correlation between arthritis activity and serum fetal DNA concentration throughout the study.
Researchers found that certain fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) in meconium are indicative of fetal exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. The presence of these biomarkers was significantly higher in infants exposed to alcohol, suggesting potential as a reliable indicator of fetal alcohol effects.
Research suggests that babies born to mothers under stress may be at higher risk for developing fibromyalgia later in life. The study found that prenatal exposure to high levels of cortisol can affect the development of the fetus's adrenal gland, leading to permanent changes.
Research shows women want to know immediately if a problem is detected during a routine ultrasound, but not a detailed list of possible issues. Most women feel it's better to receive bad news early to prepare and make plans for the future.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports that assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have led to the birth of over 3 million babies worldwide. The number of ART cycles has increased by 100,000, with the total estimated at one million a year, resulting in approximately 200,000 ART babies born annually.
A study found that improving education on the risks of twins improved IVF patients' understanding and reduced their desire for multiple births. However, despite increased knowledge, many patients still prefer to have twins due to a desire to complete their family quickly with minimal treatments.
A study by Professor Jansen found that improving culture conditions and nutrition coincided with an increase in monozygotic twinning rates. The best way to minimize MZ and DZ twinning is to transfer one embryo at a time, regardless of the mother's age.
A study found that HIV-positive mothers-to-be are at a higher risk of developing anaemia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and other health issues. Women with HIV also received less antenatal care and experienced lower birth weights, highlighting the need for better guidance on managing pregnant women with HIV.
A recent study by Dr. Wolfgang Paulus found no increased risk of congenital abnormalities in children born to mothers taking the antidepressant paroxetine during early pregnancy. The researchers suggest that a reliable pharmaco-vigilance system is crucial for documenting fetal outcomes, but more funding and support are needed.
Researchers have developed a new test to detect rare genetic mutations in families at risk of passing on hereditary cancers like FAP. The innovative test allows for precise detection of mutations, enabling couples to make informed decisions about their pregnancies.
The accelerated decline in fertility over the past 2.8 million years is an evolutionary adaptation that helped humans survive. However, this shift has created challenges for modern society, particularly in regards to teenage pregnancy, delayed childbearing, and hormone replacement therapy.
A study found that repeat doses of prenatal corticosteroids can reduce respiratory distress syndrome and severe lung disease in premature babies. The treatment also showed fewer need for oxygen therapy and help with breathing.
A new study found that infants born to mothers who took ACE inhibitors during the first trimester had a significantly higher risk of major birth defects. The study examined over 29,500 infant records and showed a clear increase in birth defects following first-trimester-only exposures.
A study found that 40.9% of teenage girls reported unwanted sex at least once, with 37.6% fearing their partner's anger if denied sex. The data highlights the need for sexual health counseling to reduce risk and promote healthy relationships.
A recent WHO study found that female genital mutilation (FGM) is associated with a higher risk of baby loss and complications during childbirth, including prolonged hospital stays. The study analyzed data from over 28,000 women across six countries in Africa.
A study of 93 women at Ohio State University Medical Center found no correlation between the frequency of sexual intercourse and the onset of labor. Women who were sexually active during the final weeks of their pregnancies carried their babies an average of 39.9 weeks, compared to 39.3 weeks among those who abstained from sex.
A new study shows that the quality of an embryo is more important than the age of a woman in determining IVF success. In older women aged 36-39, single embryo transfer (eSET) was found to have similar pregnancy and live birth rates as double embryo transfer.
A recent study found that women of child-bearing age in the US are still at risk of heavy drinking, with 4% pregnant at the time of the interview. The study also highlights the issue of unplanned pregnancies and the need for information campaigns targeting alcohol consumption among young women.
A recent study found that low-to-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure is associated with lower IQ scores in 10-year-old African-American children, but not Caucasian children. The study suggests that mothers should abstain from drinking during pregnancy to prevent cognitive deficits.
A study of over 845,300 pregnancies found a three-fold higher risk of placenta praevia among mothers who had conceived both naturally and through ART. The increased risk may be directly related to reproductive techniques used, including embryo placement methods.
The rhythm method, a natural form of birth control, may be responsible for higher embryo mortality rates than other contraceptive methods. According to Professor Bovens, two to three embryos may die every time the rhythm method results in a pregnancy.
A study found that light-to-moderate prenatal alcohol exposure is associated with lower IQs in offspring at 10 years of age. The effects were worse for African-American children, and a second trimester drinking pattern had the most significant impact on intellectual functioning.
A study of patients over 65 showed that AMITIZA significantly increased spontaneous bowel movements, improving symptoms of chronic idiopathic constipation. The medication was well-tolerated, with fewer adverse events compared to placebo, and is approved for use in adults regardless of age or gender.
A recent study published in Child Development found that moderate maternal stress during pregnancy is associated with improved early childhood development. The research followed 137 women and their children, revealing that prenatal stress did not hinder temperaments or behavior regulation.
Research finds that moderate stress during pregnancy may be associated with children being more advanced in mental and motor development at age 2. However, this effect is not seen in the children's ability to regulate their emotions or behavior.
A year-long treatment improved neurologic outcomes for infants and children with toxoplasmosis. Seventy-two percent of those with moderate or severe disease had normal long-term cognitive outcomes. Comprehensive screening for pregnant women and newborns is recommended to prevent this acute parasitic infection.