Articles tagged with Childbirth
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Researchers have identified a previously unknown biological contributor to postpartum depression: impaired autophagy, which limits the body's ability to clean up old genetic material. This finding may lead to new treatments and early identification of women at risk before they become ill.
A new UCLA study has found that anxiety specific to pregnancy and childbirth is associated with shorter gestation times and earlier births. Screening for depression in pregnancy and postpartum is now common, but adding an evaluation for anxiety could identify women who need interventions for healthier pregnancies and babies.
A survey reveals that 87.7% of South Korean mothers of young children face extremely high levels of maternal distress. The findings are more severe compared to a previous Australian study on the same topic.
A consultant anaesthetist used a nitrous oxide cracking device to reduce her own exposure to the greenhouse gas during labour. The technology helps collect and break down nitrous oxide breathed out via a facemask, making it easier to use and reducing environmental harm.
A new study found no difference in sexual enjoyment between women who gave birth via caesarean section and those who delivered vaginally. However, women who had a caesarean section were more likely to report sex-related pain at later stages postpartum.
A new study explores how active parent participation can improve neonatal health and reduce parental stress. The study found that cultural attitudes, collaboration between medical staff and parents, and availability of equipment are key factors in enabling parent-infant closeness.
A new study published in PLOS ONE explores the relationship between preterm birth and educational attainment in U.K. children. The research found that children born before 32 weeks had higher rates of poor school attainment, but only those born very preterm remained at risk by the end of secondary school.
Researchers studied the impact of withholding nitrous oxide on labor pain and found no adverse outcomes for mothers or children. Opioid use increased significantly but no change in other measures such as epidural use or Caesarean section rates were observed.
A new study published in Cochrane Reviews found that tocolytics, or preterm delay treatments, are beneficial for women worldwide. The researchers reviewed 122 clinical trials and concluded that the benefits of these drugs outweigh any risks associated with side effects.
The NIH announced five cash prize winners and four honorable mentions in its Maternal Health Diagnostics Challenge. The winning technologies aim to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality, with a focus on detecting and differentiating common pregnancy-related conditions.
A new study found that a fast food diet before pregnancy can negatively impact breast milk quality and baby's health, increasing the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Even short-term consumption of high sugar and fat diets affects women's health and fertility.
A multicenter study found that preterm children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia who attend daycare are more likely to visit the emergency department, use systemic steroids, and experience chronic respiratory symptoms. The risk of these complications is highest in infants under 1 year old and may persist until 36 months of age.
A study by Columbia University found that diverse nurse workforces are associated with reduced risk of life-threatening complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the post-partum period. Racial and ethnic minorities face higher risks, with Native American mothers having the highest incidence of severe adverse maternal outcomes.
A water birth significantly reduces the use of epidurals, injected opioids, episiotomy, pain, and heavy bleeding after birth, while increasing mothers' satisfaction levels and the odds of an intact perineum. A water immersion also increases the likelihood of an intact perineum and reduces episodes of umbilical cord breakage.
A study reveals that valproic acid induces cellular senescence in neuroepithelial cells, leading to developmental defects such as spina bifida, facial alterations, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The researchers found that a specific molecule, p19Arf, is responsible for this effect.
A new modeling study found that reducing excess prevalence of low birthweight, preterm birth, or small-for-gestational-age birth in low- and middle-income countries could lead to substantial long-term human capital gains. The study estimates potential gains of 20.3 million school years and $68.8 billion in lifetime income per birth coh...
The UK Maternal Mortality Reports show that heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women during pregnancy, followed by epilepsy and stroke. Anaesthetists are working to improve outcomes through better risk assessment, anti-clotting medication, and multidisciplinary training.
A University of Gothenburg study found that midwives' job satisfaction is linked to possibilities for development, role conflict resolution, and burnout avoidance. The research highlights the importance of quality work, recognition, and autonomy in midwives' occupational roles.
A national study of over 170 pregnant women found rising exposure to potentially harmful chemicals from plastics and pesticides. Latinas had higher levels of parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols, which may be linked to increased risk during fetal development.
Researchers found that australopithecines' smaller brain sizes at birth were likely an adaptation for bipedalism, allowing them to navigate the complex birth canal. The study suggests that prolonged learning outside the womb was crucial for cognitive and cultural development in early humans.
A $66,000 NIH grant will support Karry Weston's two-year study on the lack of breastfeeding in rural Missouri. The goal is to identify cultural factors influencing mothers' decisions, with a focus on improving maternal care in rural communities.
A new quality improvement study from Cedars-Sinai found that comprehensive nurse training is key to successfully screening women for postpartum depression. The initiative identified framing the screening as part of family wellness and normalizing the transition to parenthood as helpful strategies.
A study of 8,900 patients in New York State hospitals revealed racial and ethnic disparities in pain treatment for obstetric patients. Obstetric patients in minority groups were less likely to receive an epidural blood patch (EBP) for postdural puncture headache during delivery hospitalization.
A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that women's earnings drop substantially after childbirth, with the gap widening across all education levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, making it more challenging for mothers to restart their careers and leading to worse hiring prospects and wage penalties.
A new analysis of 23 studies identified factors influencing birth setting decisions in the US, including safety, media influence, and access to options. The study highlights the importance of building a comprehensive system of high-quality perinatal health for equitable access to all birth settings.
A study by Kyoto University researchers reveals that human fetuses develop slower shoulder growth before birth, alleviating complications during delivery. This adaptation allows for a safer passage through the birth canal, reconciling the incompatibility between wide shoulders and narrow pelvis.
A national survey found that 47% of parents experienced negative birth experiences, with uncertainties about restrictions causing increased anxiety. Good communication from healthcare providers was key to a positive experience, with families reporting reduced levels of anxiety and stress when provided with support.
Research reveals nearly a third of pregnant Medicaid beneficiaries screened for hepatitis C test positive, but fewer than a fifth receive follow-up care. A sustainable pathway to treatment is crucial, especially with expanded postpartum Medicaid coverage and highly effective oral medications.
A new study finds that emergency Caesarean sections are associated with increased inflammation in the placenta, which may compromise a baby's long-term health and development. The research also reveals sex differences in inflammatory gene expression between male and female babies born via C-section versus vaginal delivery.
Researchers analyzed nearly 100,000 pregnancies and found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and poor birth outcomes. The study provides further evidence on the safety of mRNA vaccines for pregnant individuals.
A recent study by Edith Cowan University highlights the lack of information available to women with a breech presenting baby. Women often feel pressured into having a caesarean section without being fully informed of all options, including vaginal birth and alternative techniques such as moxibustion.
A new study found that fewer than 2% of babies born to mothers with COVID-19 test positive for the virus, but those with severe cases or diagnosed after childbirth are more likely to be infected. Vaginal births and breastfeeding do not increase the risk of transmission.
A study by Lund University found that women with two midwives assisting during birth had a lower incidence of severe perineal tears compared to those with standard care from one midwife. The researchers suggest that this practice can help reduce the risk of severe perineal trauma and improve women's quality of life.
A randomized study of 379 women with obesity and unexplained infertility found that intensive lifestyle changes that shed pounds led to no better chances of pregnancy than simply increasing physical activity without weight loss. The study also showed significant health benefits from weight loss, including a decrease in metabolic syndrome.
A meta-analysis of over 3,000 studies found that women with one ovary have a 30% lower chance of becoming pregnant and giving birth after IVF. The study suggests that surgical removal of an ovary has an adverse effect on fertility.
A study of vaginal births in New York State hospitals found that labor neuraxial analgesia – having an epidural or combined spinal and epidural – was associated with a decreased risk of severe maternal morbidity. The use of epidural anesthesia was linked to a 14% reduction in the risk of severe maternal morbidity, with racial and ethni...
A new study of over 1.1 million new mothers worldwide found that first-time mothers, women under 25, and mothers of twins are at higher risk for postpartum depression. Women aged 40 and older having twins are particularly vulnerable to the condition.
Researchers found that women in labor with epidural analgesia experienced significantly faster stomach emptying rates compared to those without. This study challenges current guidelines recommending clear liquids only during labor, proposing a reevaluation of fasting practices.
A study by the University of Essex found a significant spike in depression rates (30%) and anxiety rates (37%) among expecting mothers. Social support played a crucial role in protecting mental health.
Cedars-Sinai OB-GYN experts present research on improving preeclampsia detection through AI-powered analysis of electronic health records. They also explore the relationship between incomplete information on vaccine side effects and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, highlighting the need for targeted preventive therapies. Furthermore, the te...
A study led by the Institute for Systems Biology found that unvaccinated pregnant people with COVID-19 are more likely to have poor birth outcomes, including preterm birth and stillbirth. The risk of these outcomes is particularly high for infections during the first or second trimester.
A cross-sectional survey of 21,027 women from 12 European countries found that half experienced negatively affected maternal and newborn care due to the pandemic. Sweden reported serious quality shortcomings, including insufficient protective equipment and inadequate consent procedures.
The Safe Childbirth Checklist, adapted for local needs, increased communication of danger signs, improved baby feeding practices, and reduced stillbirth rates in Indonesian health facilities. The study suggests that long-term adherence to the tool requires continued support for midwives.
Researchers found that COVID-19 infection in mothers leads to distinct immune changes in babies, including altered cytokine profiles and T cell responses. The study also identified potential correlations with clinical complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction.
A Rutgers University study found that local budgets in New Jersey can have severe consequences for maternal outcomes. The research suggests that increased spending on public health, education, and transportation is associated with better maternal outcomes, while higher spending on police does not have a positive association.
A Rutgers study found that maternal depression in the year following childbirth is associated with increased risk of short-term and long-term household economic insecurity. Women who experienced depression were more likely to be unemployed and experience financial hardship up to 15 years later.
Research suggests that high stress levels in pregnant women are associated with increased cortisol responses in infants. However, sensitive caregiving by mothers after birth can mitigate these effects. The study's findings highlight the importance of postnatal interventions to support children whose mothers experienced prenatal adversity.
New research highlights the importance of social support during pregnancy, finding that women with low levels of emotional or affectionate support are at increased risk of depression and anxiety. The study suggests that screening for social support and providing community-based services may help improve health outcomes.
A prospective-longitudinal study found that pregnant women with lower emotional stability and personality traits tend to have worse subjective birth experiences. Unexpected events like Caesareans can exacerbate these negative experiences.
A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.
A twisted human birth canal requires rotation during birth, increasing complications, yet provides stability. Researchers linked the shape to pelvic floor muscle support.
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine has found no correlation between COVID-19 vaccinations and risk of first-trimester miscarriages. Vaccination during pregnancy is safe and provides protection to the newborn infant against COVID-19 infection.
A new study found a 1.1-percentage-point increase in stillbirths and a 0.72-percentage-point increase in newborn deaths in Nigeria during the pandemic. This increase of 22% and 23%, respectively, threatens the hard-won gains in child survival made over the past two decades.
A recent study has called for reduced forceps use in Canada and better education for both clinicians and mothers on how to avoid injury during childbirth. The researchers analyzed nearly two million birth records from Canada, Norway, Sweden, and Austria, finding that five percent of women had third or fourth degree tears to the perineum.
A study of 7,512 pregnancies in women with congenital heart disease found no maternal deaths, but more health complications for mothers and babies compared to a control group. Babies born to CHD mothers had an increased risk of stillbirths, low birthweight, and major visible abnormalities.
A study of over 29,000 American women found that breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of postpartum depression. Women who breastfed for longer periods had lower rates of postpartum depression, with those breastfeeding for 6-12 months showing the greatest reduction.
A recent study published in JAMA Network investigated the potential link between epidural analgesia during labor and autism spectrum disorder in children. The research found that administration of epidural analgesia during labor was not significantly associated with autism spectrum disorder in offspring.
A study of over 20,000 medical records found pregnant women with regurgitant or 'leaky' heart valves are up to 100 times more likely to experience cardiac complications during delivery. Women with any type of valve disease should receive increased screening and attention before and during pregnancy.
A new study found that nearly one in five babies in Brazil were born 'small' and at increased risk of mortality. The researchers identified six 'small vulnerable newborn' phenotypes, which showed the highest mortality risk was 62 times greater than full-term babies.
This observational study found no association between prenatal antipsychotic exposure and increased risk of preterm birth, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study's findings suggest that antipsychotics during pregnancy do not pose a significant risk to fetal development.