Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
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.
Researchers found that females who obtained the morning-after pill from pharmacies waited significantly less time than those from family planning clinics, with a median wait of 16 hours versus 41 hours. This timely access led to a 10% reduction in unwanted pregnancies.
A study of 195 patients found that obese pregnant women who underwent induced labor took longer to deliver their babies and required more medication. Doctors should inform obese women about the risks of prolonged labor and consider waiting for spontaneous labor onset instead.
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine caution against inducing labor due to the risk of chorioamnionitis, a severe infection that can lead to sepsis and future infertility. Women considering induced labor are advised to weigh the risks and consider letting nature take its course.
A recent study highlights the importance of HIV testing for pregnant women, as even with treatment, an infected mother still poses a 25% risk of infecting her child. The use of rapid testing can significantly reduce this risk, but many women lack access to these tests due to lack of proof or electronic medical records issues.
A new study found that high plasma folate levels are associated with an increased risk of twin births after in-vitro fertilization (IVF), particularly when two embryos are transferred. The study suggests that limiting folic acid intake may help reduce the incidence of multiple births while maintaining livebirth rates.
Research suggests that pregnant women with periodontitis have higher CRP levels, which may contribute to preeclampsia and preterm delivery. The study's findings support previous research linking periodontal disease and inflammation with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
A study of 103 countries found an estimated 3.2 million stillbirths worldwide each year, with rates ranging from 5 per 1000 in rich countries to 32 per 1000 in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The true figure is likely higher due to under-reporting.
A new study suggests that drinking the recommended amount of milk during pregnancy may help increase birth weight. The Canadian researchers found that women who limited their milk intake to one cup or less per day gave birth to babies with lower birth weights compared to those who consumed more milk.
A study found that low milk consumption during pregnancy is associated with lower birth weights. Vitamin D intakes also correlate with infant birth weights independently of other factors. This suggests a potential role for vitamin D in fetal skeletal and neurodevelopmental formation.
A study by University of Arizona researchers found that prenatal nicotine exposure reduces the ability of newborns to respond to low blood oxygen, leading to prolonged and potentially lethal apneas. The study used a pump implant to simulate nicotine exposure in pregnant rats, mimicking the situation observed in smoking pregnant women.
A Finnish study found ICP associated with higher incidence of hepatitis C, non-alcoholic cirrhosis, gallstones and cholecystitis. Women who had ICP were more likely to be hospitalized due to liver diseases during the study period.
The study found that antioxidant therapy with tempol prevented the onset of high blood pressure, proteinuria, and placental abnormalities, improving birth weight and fetal growth. Tempol treatment also reduced fetal deaths by half and normalized placentas, suggesting a promising approach to treating pre-eclampsia.