Articles tagged with Childbirth
Children of older mothers are more likely to be born prematurely or with complications. The study found that babies born to mothers 45 years and older had the highest risks of stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight compared to younger mothers.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that infants who survive serious health problems in the first few weeks of life have a higher risk of dying during childhood and adolescence. Children with neurological health problems had almost six times the risk of death compared to healthy children.
A new study uses preserved plants and animals from natural history museums to track pollution trends over two centuries. Researchers found significant changes in pollutant levels between specimens collected in the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting the impact of industrial activity on human health.
A new Emory University study found that air pollution particles can disrupt maternal metabolisms, increasing the risk of premature and early term births. The research, which analyzed blood samples from pregnant women in Atlanta, highlights the need for better understanding and strategies to address this issue.
A new prediction model developed by researchers at the University of Gothenburg has been found to accurately assess the risk of severe birth injuries during childbirth. The study's findings suggest that larger babies are the main risk factor for these injuries, and previous obstetric anal sphincter injuries also play a significant role.
The proportion of women smoking during pregnancy in England has almost halved since 2014/15, but funding cuts could stall this progress. Experts fear that continued investment is necessary to give every child a smokefree start in life and prevent a surge in rates.
Pregnant women with fatty liver disease are at an increased risk of giving birth prematurely, with a threefold higher risk compared to the general population. The study also found that women with fatty liver disease had a 63% higher risk of caesarean section.
A national survey found that 1,888 out of 7,332 women reported experiencing words, gestures, or attitudes that shocked or offended healthcare professionals. Disrespectful care was more common among nulliparous women, those with high education levels and birth plans, and those who breastfed.
A new study analyzing data from 2000 to 2023 found that the introduction of a 'pregnancy checkbox' on death certificates contributed significantly to rising maternal deaths between 2000-2019, accounting for two-thirds of the increase. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp spike in maternal mortality rates, particularly among Native Amer...
A new study published in the Journal of Perinatology has found that optimizing darbepoetin dosage can reduce the need for blood transfusions in premature babies. The research, led by Intermountain Health, tested two different dosing schedules and found that both resulted in similar overall health outcomes.
A study in the Journal of Management Studies found that generous parental leave can promote mothers' entrepreneurship. The research suggests that the duration of parental leave is more significant than the financial component in shaping mothers' entrepreneurial activity.
Hormonal contraceptives initiated immediately after childbirth may increase the risk of developing depression in new mothers. Researchers found that combined oral contraceptives were associated with a higher risk of depression when started earlier postpartum.
The University of Texas at Arlington has launched a new Mobile Simulation Lab to tackle workforce and training challenges in rural areas. The lab, equipped with advanced patient manikins and simulation bays, will provide specialized training for local healthcare providers to expand their expertise.
A new study led by Dr. Geva Shenkman-Lachberg found that only sociodemographic factors like parental age, number of current children, and economic status predict the desire to have more children among LGB parents, contrary to previous findings on stigma and social support
A new rapid diagnostic test can accurately identify pregnant women with high levels of the hepatitis B virus, allowing for early detection and intervention. This breakthrough test could have a significant impact on hepatitis B management in low- and middle-income countries, reducing the spread of the infection.
A Stanford Medicine study demonstrates how an AI algorithm can enable doctors to make better clinical decisions for sick newborns. The algorithm predicts which nutrients preemies need and in what quantities, reducing medical errors and saving time.
The rate of maternal mortality related to cardiovascular causes has more than doubled between 1999 and 2022 in the US. Researchers attribute the increase to factors such as socioeconomic disadvantages, limited access to healthcare, and higher prevalence of risk factors.
A longitudinal study of Hispanic mothers found that women with normal blood pressure levels during pregnancy but no mid-pregnancy drop in blood pressure face an increased risk of developing hypertension after giving birth. Tracking blood pressure patterns during pregnancy may help identify these women and prevent cardiovascular disease.
A new study by UCL researchers found that the oxytocin system is affected in breastfeeding mothers with postnatal depression. Oxytocin levels in breast milk were reduced in mothers experiencing depression after using a nasal spray containing the hormone.
A study from the University of Missouri found that rural first-time moms are more likely to stop breastfeeding due to a lack of practical knowledge, community support, and access to lactation consultants. The research aims to improve support and resources for new mothers in rural areas.
A large study found pregnant women with cervical cancer face higher health risks during pregnancy and childbirth, including premature birth and cesarean sections. However, the babies' health is largely unaffected, with no significant differences in birth defects or stillbirths.
A new study led by Penn State researchers found that low vitamin D levels during the first trimester of pregnancy are associated with higher rates of preterm birth and decreased fetal length. Pregnant women with low vitamin D concentrations were four times more likely to experience a preterm birth compared to those with sufficient levels.
A Dartmouth-led study reveals that pregnant individuals with no emotional support during childbirth experience higher levels of perceived stress, comparable to a C-section delivery. The research highlights the importance of access to emotional support in reducing stress and improving maternal and child outcomes.
Research found that mothers of twins are twice as likely to be hospitalised with cardiovascular disease compared to singleton births. Those with twins and high blood pressure during pregnancy are at highest risk. However, deaths from heart disease decrease in mothers of twins compared to singletons over time.
A new research project funded by a $600,000 grant is exploring the mechanics behind episiotomies, with the goal of developing safer and more effective surgical practices. The study uses advanced experimental techniques and computational simulations to understand how incisions spread and potentially lead to tears.
Research suggests that labor and delivery units with adequate nurse staffing have lower cesarean birth rates and higher vaginal birth rates. Hospitals aligned with national standards for nurse staffing saw a 11% decrease in C-sections, indicating improved maternal outcomes.
According to UTHealth Houston research, adolescent and young adult men with cancer have a slightly elevated risk of having preterm birth and children with low birth weight. However, the likelihood of live birth was highest for fathers who had thyroid cancer and lowest for those with gastrointestinal cancer.
A nationwide Swedish study found that active management and induction of labor in late- and postterm pregnancies significantly reduced the risk of stillbirth and newborn death before 28 days. The study, published in PLOS Medicine, showed a near halving of this risk, suggesting improved maternal and perinatal outcomes.
A study found that persistent short sleep duration from pregnancy to 2-7 years after delivery is associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. The researchers suggest exploring sleep-targeted interventions for improved cardiometabolic health, particularly among high-risk populations.
A new study finds that women with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are at increased risk of developing new-onset migraine, headache, epilepsy, sleep disorder, or mental fatigue after giving birth. Follow-up care is recommended for these high-risk patients to monitor for neurological symptoms.
A new study suggests that cesarean sections performed during labor are associated with an increased risk of recurrent preterm birth and mid-trimester loss in subsequent pregnancies. Cervical damage may be the underlying mechanism for these findings, highlighting a growing clinical concern.
UCSF Medical Center has received the highest possible rating for maternity care, reflecting its commitment to clinical excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The hospital's maternal care teams include a broad array of expertise, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and obstetrician anesthesiologists.
Researchers have identified structural grey matter differences in the brains of women with a history of peripartum depression compared to those without. The study found that hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and childbirth may be key to understanding this condition.
Women with infertility are at higher risk of developing SARD, including lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, even after accounting for pre-eclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Infertility treatments do not appear to increase this risk, suggesting that women may be undiagnosed or untreated.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that unplanned pregnancies lead to a sharper decline in health during the first two years after childbirth, particularly among young women. In contrast, women who become mothers at an older age recover more easily due to better initial health.
A new North American population-based study found preterm birth associated with higher mortality risks throughout life, especially during infancy and early childhood. Researchers identified a range of causes contributing to the increased mortality risk after preterm birth.
A new study found that pregnant people in Massachusetts who made multiple unscheduled hospital visits during pregnancy were more likely to experience severe maternal morbidity. The study revealed that nearly half of these patients visited multiple hospitals, leading to inconsistent treatment and poor maternal outcomes.
A new AI-based software developed to guide childbirth has been validated in a multicenter study using 2,154 ultrasound images from 16 centers worldwide. The tool provides precise, real-time information on the baby's head position, indicating whether to proceed with a natural descent or use a vacuum extractor.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that Black patients are two to three times as likely to retain or gain additional weight compared to white counterparts. The study suggests interventions addressing the underlying stressors of discrimination could complement community and clinical interventions.
A study of over 2.4 million individuals born in Canada found that preterm birth is associated with lower employment income, university enrollment, and educational attainment through age 28. The findings suggest that long-term supports are vital to mitigate the effects of preterm birth on socioeconomic outcomes.
A Columbia University study finds that lower-income families with commercial insurance experience significant financial hardship due to high childbirth and postpartum care costs. Medicaid coverage provides greater financial protection, with most people with a Medicaid-covered birth having no out-of-pocket spending on childcare or healt...
A new study from ICES and the University of Toronto found that people with a history of concussion face a 25% higher risk of severe mental health issues after childbirth. Early screening and trauma-informed care could help protect new parents’ mental health.
Researchers found that women who chose their birthing position voluntarily were more satisfied with the birth experience. Around three quarters of mothers gave birth lying on their side or back, but up to 40% stated they didn't choose their position. Women who had autonomy over their birthing position reported higher satisfaction rates.
Researchers found that chimpanzees have a similarly narrow pelvis to humans, contradicting previous theories. The study proposes a new hypothesis that the obstetrical dilemma developed gradually and became increasingly exacerbated over evolution.
A new Finnish study reveals that women with a fear of childbirth have a significantly shorter breastfeeding duration. The research found that fear of childbirth is associated with a three times higher risk of not meeting the recommended six-month exclusive breastfeeding period.
A recent Cochrane review confirms that giving women at risk of premature birth a simple magnesium sulphate infusion can prevent their babies from developing cerebral palsy. The drug costs approximately £5 (~$6.50) per dose and has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2015.
Gestational carriers, also known as pregnancy surrogates, are at a higher risk for severe maternal morbidity, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and postpartum hemorrhage compared to women carrying their own pregnancies. The study found that these risks were nearly twice as high as in unassisted conception pregnancies.
Researchers identify specific brain area and activity patterns associated with postpartum depression risk in pregnant women. They propose a potential test based on these findings to help detect high-risk individuals.
A study published in Nature Communications found that one in eight newborn babies has a genetic protection against jaundice. The researchers identified a specific gene variant that codes for an enzyme linked to increased bilirubin metabolism, providing an opportunity for personalized medicine.
A new study found that neighborhoods with fewer opportunities are associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, particularly among Black and Hispanic infants. The study suggests that structural racism and discriminatory practices contribute to this racial gap in preterm birth outcomes.
A large study found that women with asthma are more likely to miscarry and require fertility treatment, but most can still have babies. The study analyzed reproductive outcomes for over 700,000 Danish women, finding higher rates of foetal loss and fertility treatment among those with asthma.
A new study found that Medicaid Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in Massachusetts increased prenatal and postpartum office visits, postpartum depression screenings, and timely postpartum care. This value-based model of care addressed inequities in healthcare access for pregnant and postpartum people covered by Medicaid.
A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a correlation between high temperatures in the final week of pregnancy and an increased risk of stillbirth and early neonatal mortality. High temperatures were associated with a 34% higher risk of perinatal death, which doubled during the six hottest months of the year.
A randomized controlled trial found that administering the first dose of misoprostol at home reduces hospital stay time by 71% and improves patient satisfaction. Women who took misoprostol at home also reported feeling more autonomous during a stressful process.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that general exercise programs can reduce urinary incontinence symptoms almost as much as pelvic floor yoga. The LILA study involved 240 women who experienced urinary incontinence at least daily, and randomly assigned them to either a pelvic yoga program or a physical condit...
A Stanford Medicine study found that premature babies who received more skin-to-skin care had stronger neurodevelopmental performance at 1 year. The intervention was simple: a parent holding the baby on their chest with only a diaper on.
A recent study found that vaginal birth without medical intervention results in the highest level of satisfaction among mothers, while obstetric interventions lead to lower scores. The researchers emphasize the importance of support and empowerment in mitigating negative experiences during childbirth.
A new study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that outpatient induction of labor is a safe and effective option for first-time mothers. The study showed that three-quarters of the mothers successfully delivered their babies vaginally, with very high levels of patient satisfaction.
The study analyzed comments on Sina Weibo to understand the public response to China's three-child supportive measures. Positive attitudes emerged towards housing subsidies and financial incentives, while negative responses were linked to extended maternity leave concerns.
A randomized clinical study found that a lateral episiotomy reduced the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) by 53% in first-time mothers. The procedure also did not increase the risk of other complications, but may lead to wound complications.