Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
A major population study examines the impact of maternal factors during pregnancy on PCOS development. The research suggests that high maternal weight in late pregnancy and reduced fetal growth are associated with irregular periods and more severe PCOS symptoms in adulthood.
A study of 360 women with borderline ovarian tumours found that conservative surgery can preserve fertility, especially for younger women with unilateral BOT. However, the recurrence rate was high at 16.6% over an average 70-month period.
A European study found that multiple pregnancies have a significant economic impact, with costs estimated at over €60m annually. The study suggests that preventing multiple births through single embryo transfer can reduce these costs and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.
A study of 840 Italian couples found that the new law led to a significant reduction in embryo storage options, with 77.7% opting for disposal or donation. The law's impact on pregnancy rates is also being questioned, with some doctors citing reduced success rates due to the prohibition on embryo freezing.
Research by Professor de Swiet reveals that women over 35 face a higher risk of maternal mortality, pulmonary embolism, and chronic health problems. He advises women seeking motherhood between 25-35 years old for the best outcomes.
A new study published in the Journal of Trauma found that pregnant women are at a higher risk of injury during the summer months due to common activities. The study, led by Dr. Donald Redelmeier, looked at data from Canadian hospitals between 1994 and 2001 and found a 12% increase in trauma cases during the summer.
A study found that prednisolone significantly reduces uNK cell numbers in the endometrium, potentially offering new hope for women with recurrent miscarriages. The treatment's effectiveness is still unclear, as it was only tested for three weeks and longer-term results are needed.
A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine shows that treatment for mild gestational diabetes reduces maternal glucose levels and improves health outcomes for both mothers and babies. The ACHOIS trial, the largest of its kind, recruited 1000 women and 1030 babies from Australia and the UK.
Researchers found environmental toxins can alter animal genes, causing heritable diseases in multiple generations. The study suggests a role for environmental impacts in evolution, potentially impacting diseases like breast cancer and prostate disease.
A study found that pregnant women who are more fatigued, stressed, or anxious tend to eat more carbohydrates and certain nutrients, while others may consume less. The research highlights the importance of considering psychosocial factors when counseling pregnant women on diet during pregnancy.
A new study assesses the feasibility and effectiveness of personalized immunosuppression using CellCept, a leading immunosuppressant in kidney transplantation. The study found that tailored dosing strategies can minimize toxicity while maximizing efficacy, offering improved patient care.
Researchers aim to understand the impact of sanctification on families transitioning to parenthood, examining spiritual emotions and investment in family life. The four-year project will involve 160 couples in Toledo, Ohio, shedding light on spirituality's role in shaping parenting experiences.
A study of 225 women undergoing IVF found that side-stream smoking was associated with lower implantation and pregnancy rates compared to non-smoking and mainstream smoking groups. The researchers are calling for women to reduce or prevent exposure to cigarette smoke, especially when trying to conceive.
Newborns exposed to antidepressants in late pregnancy had a significantly increased risk of respiratory complications and special-care nursery admission. Strategies for managing maternal depression during pregnancy include gradual tapering and cessation of medication, but more research is needed.
A study of pregnant women with psoriasis found that 55% experienced improvement in symptoms, while 65% reported worsening. High estrogen levels were correlated with improvement, whereas progesterone levels did not show a correlation.
A recent study reveals that grandsons and granddaughters of female rats fed an inadequate diet during pregnancy and/or lactation are more likely to become obese and insulin resistant. The research extends previous findings on the negative effects of poor maternal nutrition, now showing a two-generation impact.
A review of studies suggests that a high-energy diet during pregnancy can 'program' an individual's appetite and increase their risk of developing heart disease and diabetes later in life. Rats fed a high-fat diet during pregnancy show abnormalities in their large arteries and kidney function in offspring.
Research suggests that daily acetaminophen use is associated with a higher prevalence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as decreased lung function. In contrast, vitamin C supplementation during pregnancy can limit the negative effects of nicotine on fetal lung tissue.
A study found that male mouse fetuses exposed to estrogenic chemicals developed more ducts in their prostate and narrowed urethras, raising concerns for human health. The researchers used low doses of ethinylestradiol and bisphenol A, which are commonly found in oral contraceptives and plastics.
Research shows that vitamin C can help prevent smoking-related lung development problems in unborn babies. The study found that vitamin C dosed during pregnancy may improve lung air flow and reduce adverse outcomes.
Women with active epilepsy can have a healthy child if they continue treatment, but the risk of birth defects varies depending on the medication. The importance of individualized counseling and maintaining seizure control is emphasized to balance treatment effectiveness and potential risks.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) induces permanent genetic changes in the mammary gland, which are related to its breast cancer prevention effect. The studies also showed that pregnancy and hCG inhibit breast cancer in rats.
A study published in Epidemiology found that women with a history of preeclampsia are at a two-fold risk of death compared to those without the disorder. Women diagnosed with preeclampsia who had a subsequent normal birth were also found to have a significantly increased risk of dying after 20 years of follow-up.
Researchers discovered that low levels of protein Z and S early in pregnancy can increase the risk of pregnancy complications. The study included 103 women with normal pregnancies, 106 with pregnancy complications, and 20 with inherited clotting conditions. Women with prior complications may be at higher risk for future issues.
A USC study found that tobacco's harmful effects on lungs can be passed down through generations, increasing the risk of asthma in children and grandchildren. Grandmothers who smoked during pregnancy had a significant impact on their grandchild's asthma risk.
Research investigates how an Atkins-type high meat, low carbohydrate diet in late pregnancy affects offspring's response to mental stress tests. The study, focusing on the 'Motherwell babies,' explores the long-term effects of maternal nutrition during pregnancy on adulthood health outcomes.
A study by UCSD researchers suggests that BMP-15 plays a crucial role in determining ovulation quota and litter size in mammals. The team found that BMP-15 is produced normally in humans but degraded in mice, leading to increased egg production and ovulation.
Research found that Viagra increased fetal weights to normal values and completely prevented fetal resorption, suggesting beneficial effects on maternal uterine vascular adaptation and fetal health. The study's selective effect on the uteroplacental circulation avoids complications of antihypertensive therapy during pregnancy.
A recent study by NYU College of Dentistry found a significant association between high levels of oral bacteria and increased risk of low birth weight and preterm delivery. The study suggests that mother's oral health may play a crucial role in the health of her newborn.
A study on lamotrigine found a 2.9% risk of birth defects, similar to the general population, while valproic acid had a 12.5% risk when used with other epilepsy drugs. Researchers emphasize the importance of controlling seizures and planning carefully to minimize risks during pregnancy.
A new study reveals that valproate poses a greater birth-defect risk than previously thought, with major malformations occurring in 10.7% of infants born to women taking the medication, compared to 2.9% for other anticonvulsants and 1.6% for non-users.
A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation suggests that low-dose aspirin therapy may be a viable treatment option for pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. The research team created a mouse model that mimics low-dose aspirin therapy and found no significant complications, paving the way for further treatment options.
A study by Duke University researchers found that moderate inhalation anesthetic exposure during pregnancy may not be deleterious to the fetus. The exposure improved cerebral oxygenation in the developing fetus, suggesting a potential benefit for pregnant women undergoing general anesthesia.
A recent study found that pregnant smokers have a higher rate of chromosomal abnormalities in their amniotic cells compared to non-smokers. The research, published in JAMA Network, also identified specific chromosomal regions affected by tobacco exposure.
A recent study found that pregnant women who engaged in regular exercise had improved mental health and reduced symptoms of depression. The research suggests that moderate exercise, such as 30 minutes a day, can help counteract the negative effects of pregnancy on physical and mental well-being.
The University of Manchester is conducting a groundbreaking study to investigate the impact of early pregnancy on bone health in teenage mothers. The researchers aim to determine whether calcium and mineral supplements can be beneficial for younger expectant mothers, with findings expected by the end of 2006.
A daily micronutrient supplement increased birthweight by an average of 77g, reducing the prevalence of low birthweight by 25% among 1200 Nepalese mothers. The supplement showed a more marked effect on female infants and those with higher body mass index.
Researchers identified protein biomarkers in amniotic fluid linked to preterm labor, predicting success of cervical stitching. The study also found additional biomarkers suggesting other causes of preterm birth.
A study found that induction at 32 weeks pregnancy can significantly lower infections in both mom and baby, as well as shorten hospital stay for newborns. This approach may be a viable option for women with prolonged premature membrane rupture to minimize potential infection risks.
Current clinical practice identifies only half of infected mothers, highlighting the need for systematic screening. Screening can detect infection early, preventing severe eye and brain damage in infants.
Researchers identified a specific antibody causing congenital heart block, targeting the p200 part of the Ro protein. The level of this antibody in mothers correlates with the degree of damage to the heart, highlighting a potential marker for high-risk pregnancies.
A study of WHO database records found 93 cases of SSRIs associated with neonatal convulsions or withdrawal syndrome. Paroxetine was linked to the most cases, suggesting it may cause more severe symptoms than other SSRIs. The findings recommend careful monitoring and lower doses for paroxetine use during pregnancy.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MRI is an excellent choice for diagnosing pregnant women with abdominal pain due to its high accuracy and safety from radiation. The study analyzed 29 patients and diagnosed 14 different causes of abdominal pain, including appendicitis and ovarian cysts.
Researchers estimate that progesterone therapy could reduce the rate of recurrent preterm birth in the US by about 2%, preventing around 10,000 premature births annually. The study's findings are based on a clinical trial showing a significant reduction in preterm birth risk among women with a history of spontaneous preterm birth.
Researchers used PGD to select an RhD- embryo, resulting in a healthy baby girl. The technique aims to alleviate the risk of haemolytic disease of the fetus or newborn associated with RhD alloimmunization.
A study published in the American Thoracic Society Journal found that total maternal vitamin C intake was positively associated with wheeze in certain infants who did not have a cold during their second year of life. Additionally, U.S.-born Mexican Americans had a higher prevalence of asthma compared to Mexican-born individuals.
The new guidelines recommend a stepwise approach to asthma care, monitoring medication intensity based on severity. Asthma exacerbations during pregnancy pose risks to both mother and fetus, highlighting the importance of asthma management.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have developed a simple urine test to detect preeclampsia risk in pregnant women. Urinary PIGF levels drop prior to preeclampsia symptoms, predicting which women will develop the condition.
Researchers found that women who received emergency contraception (EC) through pharmacies or advance provision were more likely to use EC than those with clinic access. Despite concerns about increased risk-taking and STIs, the study revealed no significant differences in pregnancy rates or STI acquisition between groups.
A recent UCSF study found that rates of pregnancy and STIs remained unchanged among young women with increased access to the morning after pill. Despite efforts to make emergency contraception more accessible, only a fraction of women who had unprotected sex used it.
Women who averaged less than six hours of sleep per night had significantly longer labors and were more likely to have cesarean deliveries. The study also found that women who reported having poor sleep quality were more likely to experience these outcomes.
A blood test for HSV-2 can detect antibodies in people at high risk for STDs, HIV-positive individuals, and those whose partners have the virus. Pregnant women with uninfected partners do not require screening, as most women develop antibodies after three months of infection.
A study of over 2700 children found repeated prenatal ultrasounds during pregnancy had no long-term impact on growth or development. Physical and developmental assessments showed similar outcomes between children exposed to multiple ultrasounds and those with a single scan.
A study of 661 women found that transferring only one embryo during IVF resulted in fewer multiple births and higher pregnancy rates. The single-embryo group had a significantly lower proportion of deliveries with twins or more siblings compared to the two-embryo group.
Researchers argue that female condoms are a vital method of protection against HIV/AIDS but have been dismissed due to cost and esthetics. Advocates need to reposition the product as an empowering way to approach reproductive health, emphasizing its benefits in reducing transmission of AIDS.
Up to 70% of spina bifida cases can be prevented by maternal folic acid supplementation around the time of conception. Individuals with spina bifida require both surgical and medical management throughout their lives.
Researchers found that treating mothers with IgG during pregnancy significantly reduced the severity of recurrent NH in newborns. The study showed that all 16 pregnancies progressed uneventfully and resulted in live babies with normal physical examination findings.
Researchers have discovered VAR2CSA, a protein that enables malaria parasites to infect the placenta during pregnancy. Women with high levels of antibodies against this protein experience fewer complications and give birth to healthier babies.
A twenty-year prospective study of pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) found that mothers on maintenance therapy had fewer relapses and their babies were born with higher birth weights. The study also showed a lower rate of congenital anomalies in the IBD group compared to healthy pregnant women.
Studies show that early life stress can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and impaired immune function later in life. Researchers also found that maternal care and prenatal stress can alter gene methylation and affect the development of brain cells.