Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A study found that teenage mothers with iron deficiency during pregnancy had children who were less active and responded slower to their environment. The researchers suggest that a mother's nutritional status in pregnancy affects the behavior and personality of the child.
A large trial found that vitamin C and E supplements did not reduce the incidence of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women at high risk. However, they were associated with a higher risk of low birthweight babies and increased need for treatment.
A study found that ultrasound identified all cancers, while mammography detected 90% of tumors in pregnant women. Imaging helped diagnose and treat cancer in pregnancy without harm to the fetus.
A study found that elevated C-reactive protein levels remain even 30 years after eclamptic pregnancy, indicating a potential link to cardiovascular disease. Researchers also developed a non-invasive imaging technology to visualize infection-related changes in preterm birth, offering new insights into treatment strategies.
A recent study found that many sodas and energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, posing health risks for certain individuals. The FDA recommends a maximum of 65 milligrams per serving, but some energy drinks have up to 141 milligrams, more than double the limit.
The female European badger's ability to conceive during pregnancy is enabled by a reproductive strategy called embryonic diapause and superfetation. This unique trait allows females to mate with multiple males, benefiting them regardless of social system, according to Oxford biologists.
A study on Maori infertility aims to address the lack of quality information on the issue, which is affecting declining family sizes among Maori. The research will gather views from different Maori groups to inform improvements in reproductive healthcare.
A study by Dr. Ivan Pedrosa and colleagues demonstrates MRI as a viable alternative to CT scans for diagnosing appendicitis in pregnant women, sparing them from radiation exposure. The study evaluated 51 pregnant women with abdominal pain using MRI, revealing four cases of acute appendicitis, two of which were not detected via ultrasound.
A new computational model developed by Dr. Moshe Wald helps physicians plan the best approach for IVF/ICSI treatments for couples. The model considers various factors, including a woman's age, man's infertility issues, and sperm retrieval methods.
Researchers suggest that seafood can play a role in reducing coronary heart disease, Alzheimer's, and other mental illnesses. Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids like DHA, which support cognitive development and brain health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits of seafood consumption.
A new PSA campaign about risky sexual behaviors has shown positive results, with parents more likely to discuss these issues with their children after seeing the ads. The campaign, funded by the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevent Coalition of North Carolina, aimed to reduce teen pregnancy rates in the state.
A recent study published in Environmental Microbiology found that snakes become infected with Salmonella through exposure to contaminated environments, not just by eating contaminated food. The knowledge gained from this study can help prevent reptile-associated infections and inform safe handling practices for snakes and other pets.
Researchers discovered that nicotinamide can protect mice from brain cell death and behavioral abnormalities caused by alcohol exposure. The study suggests that taking the drug soon after drinking alcohol may prevent some of the damage to the developing fetus.
A new study published in AIDS and Behavior found that pregnancy, rather than high-risk behavior, was the primary predictor of STD testing among newly homeless youth. The study, conducted at UCLA, surveyed 261 homeless youth aged 12-20 and found a 32% STD rate among those who had received an STD test in the past three months.
Researchers found that excisional treatments, such as cold knife conisation and Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone (LLETZ), are associated with a small but real increase in risk of pregnancy-related morbidity. The findings suggest that cervical screening after the age of 25 may be beneficial for long-term obstetric outcomes.
A study by UCSD/Boston University found a small but significant increased chance of delivering an infant with severe respiratory failure (PPHN) if pregnant women take SSRIs like Prozac, Paxil, or Zoloft in the second half of pregnancy. The risk is relatively low, affecting about 6-12 mothers per thousand.
Chronic periodontitis and certain bacteria are linked to preeclampsia in pregnant women. Periodontal infection may increase the risk of preterm birth due to its association with cardiovascular disease. The study's findings suggest that pregnancy-associated gingivitis is preventable and easy to treat.
Researchers have identified a key gene associated with rare but important pregnancy disorders, including molar pregnancies, spontaneous abortions, and stillbirths. The discovery has significant implications for developing new treatments and therapies for these conditions.
A study of 702 pregnant women found that lung function worsened in mothers with either male or female fetuses until about 30 weeks, after which improvement was noted. Mothers carrying males had better lung function throughout pregnancy by 10 percent.
Researchers argue that targeting childhood obesity prevention is crucial in reducing adult obesity and associated chronic disease. Interventions during critical periods like the perinatal period and puberty/adolescence could have long-term effects.
A study published in JAMA found that pregnant women with major depression are at a high risk of relapse if they discontinue antidepressant medication. The research highlights the need for accurate information and treatment guidelines to help clinicians make informed decisions about managing depression during pregnancy.
In a study published in Biology Letters, researchers found that male monkeys of two species experience a 10% weight gain when their mates are pregnant. This gain is likely due to hormonal changes, including increased prolactin and estrogen levels. The study's findings could provide insights into human fathering behavior and motivate me...
A recent study found that discontinuing antidepressant medication during pregnancy can lead to a higher risk of depression relapse compared to continuing treatment. The study, which enrolled 201 pregnant women, suggests that women taking antidepressants who anticipate pregnancy should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctors.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of congenital digital anomalies, such as polydactyly and syndactyly, by up to 78%. The risk is higher for women who smoke more than a pack of cigarettes per day.
Research suggests that maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy influences bone growth and risk of osteoporosis in offspring. Studies have found that women who took vitamin D supplements or were exposed to higher levels of sunlight during pregnancy had fewer deficiencies and lower risk of osteoporosis in their children.
A first published analysis of the FDA's mifepristone reports reveals 607 adverse events, including fatalities from bleeding or septic shock. The authors call for increased research into allergic and fatal septic reactions and propose measures to improve safety monitoring.
A study of over 79,000 women found that prepregnancy obesity rates increased by 9.2% between 1999 and 2003, linked to higher risks of gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, and labor complications. The trend was observed regardless of age, ethnicity, or socioeconomic factors.
A study of over 3,000 children reveals that a mother's weight before pregnancy significantly impacts her child's risk of being overweight. The researchers found that children born to mothers who were overweight or obese before pregnancy are three times more likely to be overweight by age 7 compared to those whose mothers were not.
A Johns Hopkins study suggests a genetic link between caffeine dependence and family history of alcoholism. The research found that women with both risk factors were unable to stop consuming caffeine despite physician recommendations, highlighting the need for targeted intervention.
A study found a significant association between gingivitis and preterm birth, suggesting that periodontal disease is an independent risk factor for preterm birth. Periodontal therapy reduced preterm birth rates by 68% in pregnant women with pregnancy-associated gingivitis.
A study published in The Lancet found that pregnant women with maternal placental syndromes have a double the relative risk of premature cardiovascular disease. Women with restricted fetal growth or pre-existing risk factors for cardiovascular disease are at higher risk.
A study by Swedish researchers found that nearly all women wanted children, but only 3% preferred to delay their last birth until between 35 and 39. Many women also delayed their first child until their 40s. The study highlights the need for increased awareness of age-related decline in female fertility.
A Stanford study finds that women with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are at higher risk for adverse outcomes during pregnancy, including hypertension, premature delivery, and cesarean sections. The research highlights the need for better understanding of these autoimmune conditions in pregnant women.
A study of high-risk individuals found that condom use was associated with lower rates of herpes simplex virus-2. Pregnant women were four times more likely to experience blood clots than non-pregnant women, with the risk increasing during the postpartum period. Condoms remain a proven method for reducing STD risks in at-risk individuals.
A recent study found that low-income pregnant Latinas are at risk of early-pregnancy drinking and related effects, contrary to stereotypes. The study, which analyzed drinking behavior among 100 pregnant women, suggests that cultural values and language barriers may contribute to this risk.
A new screening test has been developed to detect Down syndrome in pregnant women at an earlier stage of pregnancy and with greater accuracy. The test combines a blood analysis with an ultrasound scan to determine the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, allowing for prenatal diagnosis within the first trimester.
A recent study found that only one in six pregnant women meet the recommended physical activity levels, with older, non-white women and those with lower incomes being less likely to exercise. Doctors are urged to encourage pregnant women to engage in moderate activities most days of the week.
Researchers have identified three newly recognized bacteria highly specific to bacterial vaginosis, a condition affecting up to 10% of pregnant women. The study aims to understand why lesbians and bisexual women are more likely to experience BV and develop strategies to prevent its recurrence.
Researchers found that baby's genes have a significant impact on mother's lipoprotein levels, which can increase risk of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that pregnancies may be less affected by maternal genetic defects if the fetus compensates for them.
Eating one fish meal per week provides significant nutritional benefit, but decreasing fish consumption can lead to lost omega-3 fatty acids and increased risks of coronary heart disease and stroke. The study suggests that the government advisories may be doing more harm than good by limiting fish intake.
A survey of pregnant women taking isotretinoin found that many failed to comply with key requirements for preventing birth defects. The study's results highlight the need for improved pregnancy prevention programs to prevent isotretinoin-related birth defects.
A study confirms that couples using natural family planning have intercourse just as frequently as those using other methods. They engage in more frequent sex before and after fertile times, with less sex during fertile days.
The incidence of preterm birth and low birthweight infants are pressing obstetrical issues, according to Michael Paidas. He emphasized the need for risk assessment with fetal fibronectin and cervical length to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Research shows that women with diabetes are at risk of having babies with heart and spinal cord birth defects due to high blood glucose levels. Maintaining good glycemic control throughout pregnancy is crucial, especially during the first eight weeks when organs form.
The Epilepsy Foundation calls on women of childbearing age to assess their medication treatment for risk of birth defects caused by anticonvulsants. The organization provides guidance and resources to empower women to make informed decisions about their health.
A study in Rakai, Uganda found that women are at a higher risk of HIV infection during pregnancy compared to other times. The risk remains significant even after adjusting for sociodemographic or behavioral factors.
A new study from Uganda found that pregnant women are at a higher risk of acquiring HIV, with rates of 2.3% per year during pregnancy compared to 1.3% during breastfeeding and 1.1% for non-pregnant women. The research suggests hormonal changes may contribute to this increased risk.
Despite nationwide efforts, only two-thirds of women ages 18-45 are taking folic acid supplements daily. The March of Dimes calls for increased grain fortification and multivitamin use to reduce neural tube defects.
A population-based study found that long-term smoking is associated with a 30-40% increased risk of breast cancer, particularly among women who start smoking before their first full-term pregnancy. The study also suggests that combined hormone therapy increases breast-cancer risk in women who smoke long term.
A Canadian study found that severe maternal morbidity rates declined between 1991 and 2001, with lower rates of postpartum hemorrhage requiring transfusion. However, a significant increase in uterine rupture cases was observed during this period, with women who experienced these complications being 158 times more likely to die.
Researchers are studying a vaccine that may eliminate the risk of group B streptococcus infection in newborns, which is responsible for 1,720 annual infections and 70-90 deaths. The vaccine aims to reduce the risk by eliminating the bacteria from the vagina before birth.
A study found that fetal alcohol exposure can alter the dopamine system in monkeys, affecting cognition and behavior. The timing of exposure during gestation varies the impact, with early exposure blunting the system and later exposure leading to supersensitive receptors.
A study of 1,001 women found that oral contraceptive users had a 40% lower incidence of multiple sclerosis compared to non-users. Pregnancy also showed a lower risk, while the postpartum period increased the risk of MS onset. Estrogen levels may play a role in these findings.
A study found that teenage boys who believe they might get someone pregnant, regardless of their intentions, are more likely to engage in unprotected sex. Healthcare providers should initiate conversations with adolescent males about reproductive issues, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
A new study finds that adequate daily folic acid intake before pregnancy can reduce neural tube defects (NTDs) by up to 70%. The March of Dimes advocates for increased folic acid fortification in grain foods, particularly among Hispanic populations.
U-Iowa researchers aim to find genes and pathways that protect against toxic effects of alcohol on the fetus. The two-year study will utilize neonatal rodents to examine the role of vasoactive intestinal peptide in fetal brain development.
Researchers found that higher folate levels were associated with healthier birth weights, contradicting previous findings. The study suggests that fortifying everyday foods with folic acid could be an effective solution to improve health outcomes.
A U of T study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine found that a single exposure to methamphetamine during pregnancy can cause long-term neurodevelopmental problems. The developing fetus is vulnerable to DNA damage from the drug due to its lack of enzymes protecting it against free radicals.
A study published in BMC Pediatrics finds that active maternal smoking, passive exposure, and even quitting during pregnancy can cause genetic damage in the developing fetus. This damage may have lifelong repercussions for the exposed fetus, affecting survival, birth weight, and susceptibility to disease.
The USPSTF has issued new recommendations for HIV screening, which will be posted on the journal's website and the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality's website. The Task Force recommends testing for all individuals at risk of HIV infection, as well as pregnant women to prevent mother-to-child transmission of AIDS.