Research on pregnancy and the health of mothers and babies. Covers prenatal exposures, medication safety, anaemia, fetal development, and maternal care.
The first International Preeclampsia Summit is being held to bring together experts in the field to discuss ways to intervene and reduce maternal illness and death due to preeclampsia. The summit aims to prioritize appropriate treatment options for this top cause of maternal mortality.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that folic acid-iron supplementation reduced the incidence of low birth weight by 16% and multiple micronutrient supplements by 14%. This research aims to improve maternal health and child survival in developing countries
Researchers from Italy studied over 14,000 births and found a significant disparity in sex ratios between optimal and sub-optimal reproductive conditions. The study suggests that nature tries to compensate for the vulnerability of male babies by favoring them in favorable months.
A study found that women with bacterial vaginosis or abnormal vaginal flora had a higher risk of late miscarriage and spontaneous preterm delivery. Treating these conditions with antibiotics may reduce this risk, with the number of women needed to be treated calculated at around ten.
A quadruple test that measures four maternal blood markers is more effective than earlier single marker tests in detecting Down's syndrome pregnancies. The test detected 81% of Down's syndrome cases, while a single marker test detected only 51%.
A two-year planning process in high-poverty neighborhoods with diverse communities was successful, while others lacked interest and leadership. Effective communication methods, community involvement, and strong ties to local churches were key factors in the most successful neighborhoods.
Scientists found that elevated levels of sFlt1 protein mediate the progression to preeclampsia by reducing angiogenic factors. Reducing VEGF-A in kidney cells also caused similar kidney disease, suggesting a plausible scenario for preeclampsia
A study conducted in the Artibonite region of Haiti shows that decentralizing prenatal syphilis screening from a regional hospital to community dispensaries has led to a significant reduction in congenital syphilis rates. By implementing on-site blood testing and treatment, the program has cut syphilis cases by 75%.
Researchers found that plasma glucose levels were poorly correlated with birth weight, and factors like smoking, pregnancy weight, and weight gain during pregnancy were more important predictors. The authors also questioned the historic link between gestational diabetes and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates.
A significant body of evidence suggests that folic acid supplements have no association with an increased likelihood of having a multiple birth. In this large-scale Chinese study, around 240,000 women who used daily folic acid supplements did not show a higher rate of multiple births compared to those who did not use supplements.
Research by Dr. Marja J. van Wijk reveals that microparticles can damage blood vessels and disrupt their function, contributing to pre-eclampsia. Oestrogen administration may improve vessel functioning in affected women.
Scientists found that the embryo uses L-selectin on its surface to bind with carbohydrate molecules on the uterine wall, leading to a complete stop and attachment. This discovery may provide information useful for treating infertility and potentially offer insight into preeclampsia.
A study analyzing data from 115,000 women found that smoking rates among pregnant women rose during the study period, but not before or after. The number of quitters increased by 9 percentage points, while 60% resumed smoking within six months post-delivery.
A recent study found that more than 1 in 10 pregnant women consume alcohol during pregnancy. The research suggests that despite public awareness of the dangers, many women still drink while pregnant. Health care providers may play a crucial role in detecting drinking and providing timely interventions to protect fetal health.
A recent study published by Michigan Medicine found that 15% of pregnant women consume alcohol, with most having less than one drink per week. However, a subgroup at high risk is identified, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to assess and counsel drinking behavior during prenatal visits.
Researchers surveyed 462 black teen girls between 14-18 years old and found that those who wanted to become pregnant were more likely to have an older partner and report low self-esteem. The study suggests targeting adolescent boys for early pregnancy prevention programs.
Researchers found that adult CF patients can achieve educational and work accomplishments despite the progressive nature of the disease. Pulmonary function and exercise capacity testing are limited in predicting their ability to work or attend school.
Bazer and Roberts identified proteins and mechanisms that regulate embryo development, fetal growth, and immune competence. Their research has clarified the biological mystery of signaling between embryo and mother to establish and maintain pregnancy in mammals.
A study of 178 black and Hispanic teens found that those with permissive parents, attending church, or from single-parent homes were more likely to engage in sexual intercourse. The researchers suggest empowering parents to monitor their adolescents' daily activities can help reduce risky sexual behavior among males.
A randomized trial found that a single dose of 1.5 mg levonorgestrel is as effective as traditional regimens for emergency contraception, with no significant differences in pregnancy rates or side-effects. The new regimen simplifies use and reduces side effects, allowing women to begin regular contraception sooner.
Researchers investigate how pregnancy affects medication levels in the blood, suggesting that placenta's organic cation transporter plays a crucial role. The study aims to inform safe dosing practices for pregnant women taking common medications, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing risks.
In a new study, researchers describe a less invasive fertility procedure that uses intraperitoneal insemination to treat infertile women with no cervical blockages. The technique bypasses the cervix by injecting sperm directly into the pelvic cavity, avoiding the need for more complex treatments.
Research suggests that moderate drinking during pregnancy may cause subtle, long-lasting cognitive problems in offspring. Studies found that adult rodent offspring of mothers who consumed low to moderate amounts of alcohol during pregnancy had impaired spatial learning and reduced synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.
Researchers found a link between maternal testosterone levels and increased masculine-typical behavior in girls, but no correlation for boys. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 children born in England and suggests that hormone-related predispositions may play a role in shaping gender roles.
A new study aims to prevent urinary incontinence in women after childbirth by promoting spontaneous pushing and daily perineum massage. The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health, hopes to empower women with tools to have a natural birth experience.
Researchers have identified a genetic mutation that causes acute fatty liver of pregnancy, a rare and potentially life-threatening condition. Screening newborns can detect the disease early, allowing for treatment and preventing deaths.
A study by Jefferson researchers found that women who underwent uterine artery embolization for fibroids were at a higher risk of complications during future pregnancies, including increased rates of premature delivery, miscarriage, postpartum hemorrhage, and cesarean section. The study analyzed 50 published cases and found significant...
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that a woman's level of education is the strongest predictor of whether she will smoke before, during, and after pregnancy. The study also discovered that women with higher levels of education had significantly lower smoking rates compared to those with lower educatio...
A study by Cornell University professor Michael C. Latham shows that a fortified orange drink improves iron and vitamin A status, reducing anemia risk by 51% in pregnant Tanzanian women. The supplement is also found to improve breast milk vitamin A levels and has potential to boost nutrition worldwide.
A study of 957 HIV-positive pregnant women found that multivitamin use was associated with a small increase in weight gain during the third trimester. Multivitamins may also reduce the risk of low weight gain and fetal loss, making them an essential tool in HIV-infected women's nutrition.
Research found that prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to insecurity in children, but a mother's emotional supportiveness can mitigate this effect. Children of moderate-heavy drinkers who had supportive mothers developed better coping skills than those without such support.
A study in Denmark found that pregnant women's attitudes toward drinking during pregnancy exist independently of their knowledge of the subject. A majority of women considered some alcohol acceptable, mostly on a weekly level, while binge drinking was deemed harmful. The research highlights the need for targeted health information stra...
A recent study published by Georgetown University Medical Center found that female rats exposed to alcohol in utero developed breast tumors at a significantly higher rate, with increased breast density and more estrogen receptors. The findings suggest that mothers who drink during pregnancy may increase their daughter's cancer risk.
Research suggests that moderate to high levels of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to increased estrogen levels in the fetus. As a result, female offspring are more likely to develop breast tumors later in life.
A double-blind, randomized controlled trial found that taking aspirin at bedtime significantly reduced the risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia in pregnant women with high blood pressure. The study also showed significant weight gains in babies born to mothers who took aspirin at night.
The study found that pregnant black women were less likely to quit smoking, while those with social support were more likely to quit drinking. Health professionals can help provide social support for these women.
A recent study found that almost 33,000 pregnant women were involved in car crashes every year between 1995 and 1999. The researchers also discovered that younger women, aged 20-29, are more likely to be involved in car crashes during their peak childbearing years.
A recent study has revealed a significant decrease in leisure-time physical activity among black girls (56%) and white girls (31%) aged 16-17. Lower parental education levels and higher body mass indexes were found to predict activity decline in both racial groups, while pregnancy was associated with activity declines only in black girls.
A study of 42 female organ recipients found mostly successful pregnancies without birth defects, but lung transplant patients faced higher risks. Complications and health issues were more common in mothers with pre-existing health problems during pregnancy.
Researchers at Magee-Womens Research Institute found that the pregnancy hormone relaxin increases nitric oxide production in blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow. This discovery may lead to new treatments for high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Infant rats exposed to alcohol developed new synapses in their cerebellum, improving learning skills and compensating for damage. This discovery offers hope for therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation for children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure.
A recent study found that prenatal zinc supplementation had no significant effect on the mental development of children. However, infants whose mothers received zinc supplements during pregnancy showed poorer nutritional status, which was strongly related to their development. The researchers emphasize the serious nature of undernutrit...
A recent study found that only 14 out of 81 clinical obstetric texts recommend abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy. Many texts instead offer vague or contradictory advice, leading to concerns about physician behavior and patient safety. The lack of clear guidance may stem from the absence of a safe level of drinking during pregnancy.
Researchers found that women who survived childhood leukemia had smaller ovaries with fewer follicles, but their ovaries appeared to function normally. The study suggests that female childhood cancer survivors with an apparently normal menstrual cycle might have a shortened reproductive span.
A US team found that most healthy couples conceive within two years, and fertility in women declines as early as the late 20s. The study suggests delaying assisted reproductive techniques until a couple has failed to conceive naturally for 18-24 months.
A new needle-free device called J-Tip has been successfully used to administer hormones to women undergoing IVF treatment. The device enabled the retrieval of eggs from 16 out of 20 women, resulting in four pregnancies. Patient acceptance was high, with diaries indicating a clear preference for the needle-free approach.
The International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) has joined the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology in condemning Italy's restrictive fertility proposals. The legislation allows only three oocytes to be inseminated at a time, leading to concerns over multiple pregnancies and premature births.
A study found that smoking significantly decreases the success rates of assisted reproduction procedures in both IVF and ICSI. The number of pregnancies among couples receiving IVF treatment was lower when the male partner smoked, with women's egg retrieval capacity also reduced.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports a trend towards more effective and safer treatments in Europe, with a reduction in embryos transferred per cycle. This has led to increased pregnancy rates despite higher multiple births.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has expressed deep concern over Italy's proposed policies on frozen embryos, which they claim are unethical and put women at risk. The proposals, set to be reviewed by the Italian Senate, limit embryo transfer to single births, posing significant risks to mothers and babies.
A study on twin pregnancies with a hydatidiform mole found that women who continue the pregnancy have a 40% chance of a successful outcome. The risk of serious obstetric complications is relatively small, and malignant disease does not appear to increase in this group
A study of 77 twin pregnancies found that women who chose to continue their pregnancy despite a hydatidiform mole experienced a 40% chance of a successful outcome. This choice was associated with a relatively small chance of serious obstetric complications and did not increase the risk of developing malignant disease.
Dr. You's research highlights the effects of endocrine-active chemicals on biological systems, finding altered gene expression in male rats exposed to high levels of genistein and methoxychlor. The study suggests plant-based estrogens can alter the effects of synthetic compounds like pesticides.
A new natural family planning method, the Standard Days Method, is more than 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. This method uses a color-coded bead system called CycleBeads to track ovulation and identify fertile days.
Research suggests a link between mild vitamin C deficiency and increased blood vessel stiffness in pregnant rats, potentially exacerbating preeclampsia risk. Pregnant women with a history of preeclampsia face an elevated chance of developing the disorder again in subsequent pregnancies.
Research suggests that preeclampsia may decrease the risk of preterm delivery when a woman smokes, but negative effects persist even without clinical preeclampsia. Abnormal implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus may also continue to affect pregnancy outcomes.
Research suggests preeclampsia is associated with increased risk of preterm delivery and later-life hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Elevated sialic acid levels indicate inflammation and are linked to atherosclerosis, suggesting a potential preventive role for aspirin.
A large international trial found that magnesium sulphate reduced the risk of eclampsia by over half and maternal death by 45% compared to placebo. The treatment was also associated with a lower incidence of side effects.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that outpatient antibiotic treatment for PID is just as effective as inpatient treatment. The study, known as PEACH, involved 831 women with PID and showed no significant differences in outcomes between those treated inpatient or outpatient.
A study found that young women who received the intervention had a lower pregnancy rate (38% vs. 56%) and birth rate (23% vs. 40%) by age 21, compared to those not in the program. The intervention focused on impulse control, classroom management, and family skills without sex education.